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Essequibo Leo Club fetes children, senior citizens for holidays Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 3064

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Friday, December 9, 2016

President says Budget 2017 “rounded”

PRICE

$80 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

105 years for co-accused in Bartica, Lusignan P16 massacres

Page 9

Media hype causes increase in demand for foreign currency

... shortage occurs on a regular basis – BoG Governor

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ECD man shot, robbed by lone gunman Page in Sophia 7

CC&PA not very effective in their P12 work – Help and Shelter Coordinator

Region 2 projects P16 moving at a snail’s pace

... implementation of Budget 2016 lagging – Regional Chairman

Investigation into Gafoors fire ongoing Public Heath Minister, Dr George Norton leads a parliamentary delegation to the Sussex Street ‘House-bond’ to verify whether drugs were in fact being stored at the facility being rented by Government for in excess of $14 million monthly from Linden Holdings Inc

None will escape paying Roopnaraine bows VAT on electricity and Page 11 to media pressure water, not even the poor … says private company gave ‘donation’ D'Urban Park Project

records to Public Infrastructure Ministry Page 7

… APNU/AFC’s counterarguments a fallacy – Dharamkumar Seeraj

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Corentyne carpenter’s murder

Accused make 1st Berbice court appearance P10 amidst protests

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friDAY, december 9, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

3 Media hype causes increase in demand for foreign currency news

FRIDAY, december 9, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, December 9 – 13:00h-14:30h and Saturday, December 10 – 14:00h-15:30h with a night retraction at 01:30h (Sunday morning).

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, December 9 – 12:00h-13:30h and Saturday, December 10 – 13:05h-14:35h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Weather: Heavy to light rain showers can be expected throughout the day, while clear skies can be expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 26 degrees and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 12:29h reaching a maximum height of 2.46 metres.

Low Tide: 05:55h and 18:32h reaching minimum heights of 0.81 metre and 0.75 metre respectively.

WEDNESday, december 7, 2016

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... shortage occurs on a regular basis – BoG Governor

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ank of Guyana Governor, Dr Gobind Ganga has blamed the sensationalisation by the media for a sudden increase in demand for foreign exchange.

Dr Ganga, at an emergency press conference on Thursday afternoon, said the issue of foreign currency shortage is obviously being sensationalised as there are usually bouts of shortages of foreign exchange in the financial system.

He said the Central Bank is currently working with the commercial banks to ensure an adequate supply of legitimate demands for foreign currencies.

“We have conducted as of today (Thursday) a market analysis and find that the immediate demand is at a maximum of about $6 million and this has moved from a working balance excluding commitment, from US$10.7 million on Monday (December 5), in terms of working balance. Request for foreign currency at that time was almost nothing.

They had about US$8.3 million.

Ganga said it was following by a story by the Kaieteur News on Monday; the Bank was flooded with requests from the commercial banks for foreign currencies. He said however, that not all of the requests were found to be legitimate demands. The bank’s chief said it had requested from the commercial banks invoices to substantiate the requests, but only received letters or emails requesting a particular amount sent to the commercial banks.

“This situation arises out of this panic that started on Monday, because on Monday, there was a situation where the net balance in the banking system was US$10.7 million and there was a net to of $8.3 million,” he explained.

He said however, that the commercial banks have made great strides and success in satisfying most of the demands. He said he has al-

Bank of Guyana Governor, Dr Gobind Ganga

ready spoken to the Chief Executive Officers (CEO) of commercials banks who have committed to addressing the issue.

“This is something that occurs on a regular basis.

From time to time, you will have this. But we do work with the commercial banks and the non bank cambios to resolve any excess demands, but as this time, there is not chronic situation out there, the commercial banks are dealing with this issue as we speak, some of them are bringing back some foreign currencies that they had elsewhere to address some of the demand,” Ganga said.

As I indicated, a number of people go to the bank and cambios requesting foreign exchange for speculative purposes and it is very easy.

We have to be very careful.

We have also asked the banks to be careful, less the country ends up like Trinidad and Tobago, which is at this point unable to find some US$1 million to pay the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and a private rice exporter who is owed US$6.7 million by Trinidad authorities. Speaking to officials at Central Bank there, Ganga said there is a situation where at least one commercial bank there does not sell foreign currencies.

The Central Bank Governor said the problem in Trinidad is now reflecting on Guyana’s system and

that is one of the main reasons why Guyana has temporarily stopped the purchasing of Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados currencies from cambios here.

He said persons from those countries have been coming to Guyana and exchanging their monies for US dollars. “You have some of them who are coming in with huge amounts for speculative purposes and you have to filter those”.

The Governor maintained that there are no shortages and that no commercial bank has ever approached the Central Bank for foreign currencies and have been turned away.

“Every one of the commercial banks that approach us would have received currencies if demanded,” he assured. He however noted that for individuals requesting currencies must have some legitimate documentation upon request of the funds.

“You know people are travelling, most of them travel with currencies, it’s available. In terms of wire transfers, we may have an issue there and as I have indicated before, we are working with these banks to ensure that the demand out there is met”.

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FRIDAY, december 9, 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

United against corruption for development, peace and security

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very year $1 trillion is paid in bribes while an estimated $2.6 trillion are stolen annually through corruption – a sum equivalent to more than five per cent of the global GDP. In developing countries, according to the United Nations Development Programme, funds lost to corruption are estimated at 10 times the amount of official development assistance.

Corruption is a serious crime that can undermine social and economic development in all societies. No country, region or community is immune. This year UNODC and UNDP have developed a joint global campaign, focusing on how corruption affects education, health, justice, democracy, prosperity and development. The 2016 joint international campaign focuses on corruption as one of the biggest impediments to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Corruption is a complex social, political and economic phenomenon that affects all countries. Corruption undermines democratic institutions, slows economic development and contributes to governmental instability. Corruption attacks the foundation of democratic institutions by distorting electoral processes, perverting the rule of law and creating bureaucratic quagmires whose only reason for existing is the soliciting of bribes. Economic development is stunted because foreign direct investment is discouraged and small businesses within the country often find it impossible to overcome the “start-up costs” required because of corruption. On 31 October 2003, the General Assembly adopted the United Nations Convention Against Corruption and requested that the Secretary-General designate the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) as secretariat for the Convention’s Conference of States Parties (resolution 58/4).

The Assembly also designated 9 December as International AntiCorruption Day, to raise awareness of corruption and of the role of the Convention in combating and preventing it. The Convention entered into force in December 2005.

In his message on the 2016 observance, UN Secretary General Ban Ki- moon emphasised that No country is immune, and every country bears a responsibility to end it.

Corruption, he said, strangles people, communities and nations. It weakens education and health, undermines electoral processes and reinforces injustices by perverting criminal justice systems and the rule of law. By diverting domestic and foreign funds, corruption wrecks economic and social development and increases poverty. It harms everyone, but the poor and vulnerable suffer most. The theme of this year’s observance is “Corruption: An impediment to the Sustainable Development Goals”. Goal 16 urges substantial reductions in corruption and bribery and the development of effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels. The UN Convention Against Corruption, buttressed by its peer review mechanism, is mobilising action for honest, transparent, accountable governance, but far more is needed. The Secretary-General continued: “On International Anti-corruption Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to ending the deceit and dishonesty that threaten the 2030 Agenda and our efforts to achieve peace and prosperity for all on a healthy planet”.

Guyana joins the rest of the world in observing this important occasion, even while rumours of corruption run rampant with the most recent being the controversy over the D’Urban Park Project; this has been dubbed a “scandal of monumental proportion”.

Government has been lambasted over their perceived “lack of transparency on the project” and further, the Education Minister has been fingered in an alleged attempt to mislead the populace.

Amidst this, the Head of State, President David Granger publicly announced that there was “nothing secret nor criminal” about the D’Urban Park Development Project when asked to respond to the Opposition’s claim that the Government had not been forthcoming with all of the information with regard to the D’Urban Park Development Project, the creation and registration of HDI, which collected funds for the Project, or Minister of Education Dr Rupert Roopnaraine’s role as a Director on the company’s Board.

On the cusp on International Anti-Corruption Day, the Education Minister finally broke his silence over his role in the Homestretch Development Inc (HDI) and its role in the development of the D’Urban Jubilee Park Project. He assured that during the more than 40 years he has been a political activist, he has never hidden or engaged in any acts of malfeasance.

The UN Secretary-General urged all Nations, in observance of International Anti-corruption Day, to reaffirm their commitment to ending the deceit and dishonesty that threaten the 2030 Agenda and our efforts to achieve peace and prosperity for all on a healthy planet.

A visitor and an employee dressed as Snegurochka (Snow Maiden), the granddaughter of Ded Moroz (Russian equivalent of Santa Claus), pose for a picture inside an upside-down house, constructed as an attraction for local residents and tourists and located at the Royev Ruchey Park of Flora and Fauna in the suburbs of Krasnoyarsk, Russia (Reuters)

Former MP Basir deserving of a pension Dear Editor, A pension working on behalf of the State (government) is an earned right. Very few Members of Parliament have been denied a pension in any part of the world. Former MP Isahak Basir qualifies for a pension but the PNC and PPP unjustly denied him his pension. Revolutionaries who fought dictatorships and returned their countries to democracy also became eligible for pension; if their countries were not dictatorships, the revolutionaries may very well have been MPs or serving in some government position. Thus, they qualify for a pension. South Africa grants pension and/or other benefits to ANC revolutionaries who fought apartheid.

By nature of their struggle against dictatorships, they qualified for a state pension as if they served the state.

The same principle applies to those who spent many years to fight apartheid/like rule in Guyana. Those who serve the state under minimum requirements and are not afoul of the laws should be granted their pension. However, sev-

eral Guyana ex-Members of Parliament who met the requirements for a decent pension were denied it by the PNC dictatorship and the democratic PPP Government out of pure spite and/or incompetence from the PPP. A sad fact is those who did not fight for the restoration of democracy that saw the PPP returned to office after 28 years in “banbas” and who enjoyed the fruits of labour of the freedom fighter were the ones who refused to champion pension for those (like Balram Singh Rai, Dr Fenton Ramsahoye, Isahak Basir) who earned it.

A simple act of Parliament, passing a bill, would have granted these individuals their pension. The PPP refused to do it during its 23 years in office. So Basir and the others have been made to suffer - an injustice from a party that benefited from their struggle - the height of nimakharamism.

Basir is most deserving of a pension for his courage in fighting the ethnic dictatorship. He served in parliament from 1968 and was ex-

pelled for a just act against the Speaker who violated parliamentary norms. Had the Parliament a democratically elected Speaker, Basir would not have been expelled and would have served for decades in Parliament.

More PPP members would have served in Parliament and in government positions and become eligible for pension if Guyana had free and fair elections. One must not forget the PNC Parliament was illegal – fruit of an illegal rigged election that resulted in Narine becoming Speaker.

Thus, those served under the PNC in Parliament were/are ineligible for a pension. Basir qualifies for a pension by virtue of his service to the nation and for his years in the revolutionary struggle to restore democracy in Guyana.

A point is made that those who partook in the struggle for a minimum number of years (say ten) in the liberation of Guyana during the 28 years of PNC ethnic dictatorship should be eligible for a pension. That is a valid point. Individuals like Mel Carpen, Chuck

Mohan, Arjune Karshan, Vassan Ramracha, Ravi Dev, Baytoram Ramharack, Joe Kanhai, Vishnu Bandhu, David Hinds, Ogunseye, myself, etc should qualify for a pension by virtue of rendering so many years of service to the nation fighting the dictatorship. I do not seek a pension for myself although I put in almost two decades fighting the apartheid regime. Other freedom fighters should get their pension.

The PPP has done them an injustice while PNC is presenting Bill in Parliament to give pensions to criminals from its party. The time spent fighting the PNC dictatorship would have earned the revolutionaries enormous amounts of wealth if they had joined the dictatorship or gone into private business or not neglected their education. They deserve a pension.

Those who supported the PNC dictatorship should not qualify for a pension.

Please grant Basir his pension.

Yours truly, Dr Vishnu Bisram

Consultation, inclusivity and accountability must replace corruption, incompetence and arrogance at City Hall (part 1) Dear Editor, The proximate cause of the failings of the Georgetown City Council over the past three decades to provide the range of services to citizens within the boundaries of the Municipality as prescribed in the Municipal and District Councils Act is rooted not in inadequacy of resources; not in ‘miserly subventions’ but in the corruption, incompetence, arrogance and clear lack of political will to deliver among those at the helm at City Hall.

There was no interest at

all on the part of the Council over these years in remedying the many shortcomings of Council and so improve the services they provide.

Indeed, much energy was expended diverting attention from the inadequacies of those at the helm of the Council who must ultimately be held accountable for its failings and blaming the PPP/C Government.

City Council’s poor management of the affairs of the City over the several decades is due in large measure to poor management of resourc-

es at its disposal and devoting too much of its time and energies at trying to make the PPP/C Government look bad.

The frequent outbursts of lack of financial resources by those at the helm of the City Council must be seen for what they are: clever attempts at political posturing and machinations aimed at excusing themselves from culpability to provide the services they are legally required by Law to deliver to citizens in return for the rates and taxes they pay.

Council appeared unable or unwilling or disinterested in carrying out its mandate.

No ongoing Debt Recovery Drive: There is an obvious lack of interest in going after the huge debt estimated at $22B with interest. Even the Amnesty offered to debtors does not attract the desired results which one would expect such offers to attract because the Debt Recovery Unit does not appear to be proactive.

Furthermore, what is collected is poorly managed. continued on page 5

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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

4th & final letter from Help & Shelter - 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Dear Editor, This is the fourth and final of our letters to mark the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

Despite the APNU/AFC Manifesto promise, so far as we are aware, no code of conduct for the public service relating to sexual harassment, gender discrimination, sexual violence and other forms of discrimination against women has been put into effect. Sexual harassment prevention policies for all public and private sector entities including ministries, security agencies, schools, businesses and other educational institutions should be introduced and made enforceable with penalties for those who transgress.

Similarly, the introduction of tax credits for companies providing in-house daycare facilities for their employees promised in the APNU/AFC manifesto has, so far as we are aware, not materialised or even been discussed the private sector, nor has the government increased funding for childcare centres to support women, especially estranged mothers, single mothers, and victims of various forms of abuse, apart from a Georgetown Public Hospital daycare centre, which, according to the 2017 Budget, is to be established.

The continuing use of corporal punishment in schools and the unbelievable stripping and caning of students at an interior school highlight the need for the abolition of corporal punishment in schools, as corporal punishment teaches and mainstreams the use of violence as an acceptable means of solving and resolving problems.

We welcome the calls by top officials in the APNU/ AFC government, such as the president and the minister of education, for the ending of corporal punishment in schools. But this is not enough and must be followed by accepting the recommendation of the Guyana Teachers Union, NGOs and Civil Society Organisations and individuals to replace the use of corporal punishment with training programmes for teachers on new disciplinary measures and classroom management techniques that do not violate the rights of children.

This is an achievable goal but lack of political will seems to be allowing the status quo to continue.

We acknowledge that it is the responsibility of all Guyanese to ensure that women, girls, men, boys and members of LGBT community live lives free from all forms of gender-based violence, discrimination and

abuse. But multisectoral and representative responses that involve collaboration between all sectors of society must be fashioned in order to achieve this and the government is crucial for effecting this goal.

We salute all social service providers who work tirelessly and often above the call of duty to offer help, protection, support and services for the many victims and survivors of gender-based violence and their families. We know that this valuable and at times transformative work is often not acknowledged and that confidentiality often does not permit it to be accorded the appreciation it deserves.

We recognise the genuine attempts on the part of sections of the APNU/AFC government to improve the conditions of women and girls, especially through expansion of skills training programmes. But this in itself is not enough to transform the structural and ideological barriers to gender inequality.

We also recognise the work done by all NGOs, civil society organisations and Constitutional Commissions towards the elimination and reduction of gender-based violence.

In particular, we salute

all those women and girls who have had the strength to overcome their experiences of abuse and violence by transforming their lives and the lives of their children.

Their struggles are a testimony to resilience and offer hope to all others still struggling to free themselves

from gender-based violence.

In ending, we call on the APNU/AFC government to ensure that another year will not pass with little or no progress made in the realisation of the human rights of women and girls to live lives free from violence and the threat of violence.

Consultation, inclusivity...

Expenditure controls are almost nonexistent notwithstanding the recommendations of the Burrowes Enquiry; the Ramon Gaskin and the Auditor General Reports. These reports all offer serious recommendations for improvement in the financial situation of the Council and the range and quality of services the Council provides. The Council appears to be interested only in those things in which members have a personal interest, notably staff loans and advances, overtime abuse, rental of trucks instead of fixing their own, haemorrhaging of scarce resources. Or is it that, in the APNU/AFC Government, Council is confident that it has a Banker to whom it could always turn in times of need eg to pay Solid Waste Contractors?

Market Revenue is used

primarily to help meet employment costs that include scores of inactive, underemployed staff of the City Council administration and very little of it is spent on maintaining or expanding or improving market infrastructure or, what is even more desirable, providing additional market infrastructure and so address the sanitation and environmental challenges occasioned by illegal vending.

Reports of vendors paying City Constables (the latter are not authorised to collect revenue) and no receipts issued, go uninvestigated while the City Council has been losing millions through corruption by revenue collectors. There are also reports that thousands collect-

Yours faithfully, Danuta Radzik Kevin Massiah Karen Shaw Petal Baboolall Carol Inis-Baptiste For Help & Shelter

continued from page 4

ed by City Hall officials from Bourda vendors and persons vending along Merriman’s Mall do not find its way into the Council’s coffers.

Meanwhile, City Hall is yet to formulate a relocation plan for illegal vendors who have been removed or put on notice that they will have to relocate shortly. I call on the Council: do not allow your own selfish agenda to inhibit/frustrate the work of Council.

Sincerely, Norman Whittaker

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Foundation

― what makes a child grow into a brilliant adult? Here's how to recognise the genius in your child (CONTINUED FROM THURSDAY)

BY CHRISTINA VERCELLETTO

Read, read, read

Research has repeatedly shown that access to books and one-on-one reading time is a predictor of school success. “Reading stimulates the brain to make connections and builds background knowledge about the world,” says Kim Davenport, Chief Programme Officer at Jumpstart, a national early-literacy organisation.

“Reading is the foundation of all learning and will enable a child to absorb and apply content from all areas, including math and science.” Modelling good reading habits may give him an edge. “Seeing his parents reading for enjoyment will be contagious,” says Davenport. Invite your child to cozy up on the couch with you to read. Keep books out – in baskets, on shelves, and on coffee tables. And share what you're reading with your child, and ask him to do the same. This will not only spark conversation but build his vocabulary and comprehension.

Praise results

Stick-to-itiveness is a quality that will endear your child to teachers – and employers. We as a culture are so busy making children feel good that we've lost sight of the time it takes for them to actually become good, says Rhee. “My children both play soccer, and both stink.

But judging by the trophies and ribbons that line their room, you'd think I had the

next Mia Hamms here,” she notes. It's hard to accept failure if you're constantly told you're the best. When these children go to school and get a problem wrong, they think “It can't be me.”

Giving the right props is key, says Stephanie Rosales, a licensed Educational Psychologist in La Quinta, CA: “Children who are praised for solving a problem tend to be more motivated in school than children who are told they're smart. The latter, ironically, often become frustrated when something doesn't come easily.” So instead of giving broad praise (“You're a star!”), give kudos for accomplishments (“I'm proud of how you found a different way to get the answer”). And if you're going to hold up a gold standard, make sure it's truly gold. Say “You're almost there. Keep trying.”

Celebrate curiosity

Preschoolers very nearly glow with curiosity. But sometimes children lose that as they get older, says Brenneman. Keep them excited by honing in on what interests them. If you ask questions about what they're playing with or talking about – “Yes, even if it's Pokémon, as it was with my son,” says Brenneman – you've initiated a give-and-take that will pay off in a smarter child. Your child will ask questions and look for more good stuff to share in return. Take time to turn your child on to what you're excited about: Check out a museum or watch an interesting show together, and tell your child what you like about

(Conclusion)

it and why. Rich Braun, a dad of two in East Islip, NY, used to work weekends. So to be able to share his interests with his son, Erik, when he was in elementary school, he occasionally pulled him out of school to visit a museum. His teachers always agreed, since the next day he told the class what he had learned. “Erik felt like the expert for a day, which over the years boosted his confidence and eagerness to learn more,” says Braun.

Seize teachable moments

You can help your child sharpen school skills as you go about your day. Say you drive by a windmill. Instead of saying “Hey, a windmill!” ask a question: “What do you think they do?” Encouraging observation of details will help your child do the same in class, says Rosales. And a trip to the store can be a chance to build vocabulary, math skills and money smarts. Tell a two-yearold the names of fruits as

you bag them. Ask a threeyear-old to find four cans of peas. Have a five-yearold write down which cereal she wants. Older children can compare prices and sizes, and sort coupons. Sarah Brown, a preschool teacher in Hollywood, MD, had her two-year-old students paint with apples, bananas and then skinny carrots. When her students advanced to the four-year-old group, the teacher noticed that they had better prewriting skills than the new students.

Whether your child is advanced or average, the best thing you can do is be involved. Taking her on this journey of self-discovery is what'll drive her personal genius. In one word: What do you most want your child to be? Happy? Funny?

Confident? Loved? We're betting “Valedictorian” didn't pop to mind. Your goal is to help your child be the best he or she can be, right?

If you've read this far, you're both well on your way. (parent-

Naturalist Intelligence: excellent at recognising and classifying both the animal and plant kingdoms, as well as showing understanding of natural phenomena.

These questions can determine if an adult has a strength in Naturalist Intelligence: * Do you like to spend time in nature? * Do you belong to a volunteer group related to nature? * Do you enjoy having animals around the house? * Are you involved in a hobby that involves nature, such as bird watching? * Can you easily tell the differences among species of flora and fauna? * Do you read books or magazines, or watch television shows or movies that feature nature? * On vacation, do you prefer natural settings to cultural attractions? * Do you enjoy visiting zoos, aquariums, or other places where the natural world is studied? * Do you enjoy working in your garden?

These are some questions to determine if children may be exhibiting a well-developing Naturalist Intelligence. Does your child: * Talk about favourite pets or preferred natural spots? * Enjoy nature preserves, the zoo, or natural history museum? * Show sensitivity to natural formations? (note that in urban environments, this type of “formation” can include cultural icons.) * Like to play in water? * Hang around the pet in school or at home? * Enjoy studying environment, nature, plants, and animals? * Speak out about animal rights and earth preservation? * Collect bugs, flowers, leaves, or other natural things to show to others?

Spatial: perceiving the visual-spatial world in an accurate way, so as to be able to work in it effectively.

The people who do this cover a wide range of fields that, upon first glance, do not seem to have much in common.

Compare, for example, hunters, sailors, engineers, inventors, and surgeons to interior decorators, architects, painters, and sculptors.

These questions can determine if an adult has a strength in Spatial Intelligence: * Have you always been able to reproduce clear images in your mind, even when your eyes are closed or the objects are not in front of you? * Are you sensitive to colour? * Do you take a lot of photographs or home movies? * Do you enjoy jigsaw and other visual puzzles? * Do you have vivid dreams? * Do you usually have an easy time getting around, even if it’s your first time in a new place? * Do you enjoy drawing or doodling? * Was geometry easier for you than algebra? * Do you have an easy time reading maps and translating their information into reality? * Do you enjoy books and magazines with many illustrations, photos, and design elements?

These are some questions to determine if children may be exhibiting a well-developing Spatial Intelligence.

Does your child: * Recall visual details in objects? * Have an easy time learning to read and understand maps and charts in books? * Daydream a lot? * Enjoy the visual arts? * Demonstrate ability in using art materials and creating drawings, sculptures, or other three-dimensional objects? * Enjoy visual presentations such as videos, television, and movies? * Get a lot of information from illustrations in books she reads? * Scribble, doodle, or draw on all available surfaces?

I have seen limited reference to another intelligence: Naturalist, which is described as being able to recognise plant or animal species in the environment. This one is not included in the two Gardner books I list it here for your perusal, but it was added after this original research. (childdevelopmentinfo.com)

NEWS

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D'Urban Park Project

Roopnaraine bows to media pressure … says private company gave ‘donation’ records to Public Infrastructure Ministry

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ducation Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine has succumbed to media pressure and on Thursday, broke his silence over his role in Homestretch Development Inc (HDI) and its role in the development of the Durban Jubilee Park Project, lashing out at critics that had alleged malfeasance in the execution of the works.

Dr Roopnaraine used the occasion provided for ‘statement by a Minister’ ahead of day four of the Debates on the 2017 Budget to lash out, saying he will not sit by and suffer in silence, adding “if I am now accused by anyone of such acts (of malfeasance).

The Education Minister said during the more than 40 years he has been a political activist, he has never hidden or engaged in any acts of malfeasance.

Dr Roopnaraine – appearing frail with his hands shaking violently as he fought desperately to grasp his printed statement – told the Members of Parliament (MPs) in attendance that the decision to turn over the development of the D'Urban Park to the Public Infrastructure Ministry was taken, since the private donations for the project had ran out and the records of all that had been donated in any way was in fact handed over to that Ministry.

Minister Roopnaraine told the House that the decision was taken to offer his explanations since he was requested by the media to not hide behind the explanations that

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson

had been provided by Head of State David Granger, during a recent broadcast of his weekly television programme ‘The Public Interest’ In seeking to offer clarification, Dr Roopnaraine offered a chronology of events dating back to June 2015 when a decision was taken to establish a National Commemoration Committee (NCC) since Government had decided to commemorate Guyana’s Jubilee anniversary. The Education Minister further stated that he was appointed to Chair the proceedings of the NCC. He used the occasion to lament that the political Opposition was invited to sit on the Commission – an offer that was never accepted nor did they participate in any way.

According to Dr Roopnaraine, the decision was taken to develop the D'Urban Park site since the

traditional venue for hosting the national anniversary activities was inadequate.

He continued by saying that the National Park would have required extensive repairs in addition to the appropriation of the adjoining rugby field in order to accommodate the thousands that were envisioned to take part in the 50th anniversary celebrations.

The decision to proceed with the D'Urban Park Development Project was authorised by Cabinet and works began in the last quarter of 2015.

Dr Roopnaraine said he was asked in January 2016 to sit on the Board of HDI and that the team with no budget was given the task of preparing the site – works which he said were done in full view of the public.

The Education Minister told the House that in April last, the HDI Chief Executive Officer, Colonel (rtd) Larry London, informed the Government that the donations and credit arrangements that had been received from private civilians had been exhausted, and as such, a decision was taken by Cabinet to turn over the project to the Public Infrastructure Ministry.

Dr Roopnaraine, at this point, informed the House that all the records of monies received and donations were handed over to the Ministry and that he anticipates that there will be a full accounting of the resources.

Minister Patterson had failed at the time to disclose to the House that the information being sought on the financing of the project prior to his Ministry’s takeover had already been submitted to his Ministry.

Meanwhile, Dr Roopnaraine on the matter of the monies received told the House it is his understanding that many of the persons who made donations to the project did not want to be publicly identified or thanked for fear

Education Minister, Dr Roopnaraine

Contradiction

The utterances by Dr Roopnaraine have contradicted Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson.

The Public Infrastructure Minister a fortnight ago, during a parliamentary debate piloted by the Opposition on the matter of the Durban Park Project had stated, that since the company – HDI – was a private one, the details could not be had at this point in time.

He suggested that the company’s internal audited statements could possibly have the information being sought, but since it was a private company, he could not make the disclosure.

of condemnation or worse.

He said too it is his understanding that none of the people who were involved in the management of the project up until its handover to the Ministry, had been remunerated.

The Education Minster used the opportunity to lament the acknowledgement, enthusiasm and energetic patriotism fostered as a result of the project; “instead greed and malice had been attributed to their patriotic efforts.”

ECD man shot, robbed by lone gunman in Sophia

A

n East Coast Demerara (ECD) resident is now being treated for a gunshot wound to his leg at the Georgetown Public Hospital after he was attacked and robbed by an armed gunman on Thursday.

Based on reports, Gavin Ramlall, 22, of Chateau Margot, ECD, was in the vicinity of C Field, Sophia, Greater Georgetown, at about 16:15h when he was approached by a lone gunman who demanded that he hand over his personal belongings and money he had

in his possession.

Ramlall reportedly put up a fight but in retaliation, the gunman discharged a round hitting him to one of his legs.

The bandit then relieved the man of an undisclosed sum of money, mobile phone and the keys to his car.

Upon hearing gunshots residents in the area rushed to the man’s assistance; he was taken to the hospital where he was admitted.

The police have launched an investigation into the matter. No one has been arrested.

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News

friDAY, december 9, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

IN THE COURTS

Duo charged with West Ruimveldt man’s murder

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he two men, who were fingered in the shooting which occurred outside of East Ruimveldt Secondary School, appeared on Thursday charged with murder at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Faith McGusty.

It was alleged that Colwyn Johnson, 34, of Lot 145 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, and Joshua Meredith murdered Paul Rodney, 31, on November 21 last at Avocado Avenue, East Ruimveldt.

The defendants were not allowed to enter a plea to the indictable offence.

Johnson was represented by attorney Leslie Sobers.

They are scheduled to make their next court appearance before Chief Magistrate Ann McLenan on December 22.

Rodney also called “Shirts” of Lot 530 West Ruimveldt, was found lying in a pool of

Murdered: Paul Rodney

blood on Avocado Avenue, with at least seven gunshot wounds about his body.

Preliminary investigations by the Police revealed that at about 02:55h a mobile patrol on Mandela Avenue heard several loud explosions and went to investigate.

Upon arrival, a group of men was observed running as they discharged several rounds

into the air.

Upon checking the area, the Police noticed the man lying motionlessly, with blood oozing. He was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

The Police have since confirmed that the man’s body bore seven gunshot wounds.

When Guyana Times visited the dead man’s home on Monday, his uncle Derick Rodney, explained that he was at home and received the news at about 04:35h. He said that he passed by the scene where the shooting took place but left the Police to continue their investigations.

He noted that upon enquiring, the family was told that his nephew was at a function during which an argument ensued followed by an altercation. He also noted that after the altercation, his nephew attempted to escape

but his attackers went after him and opened fire.

The shooting incident took place a short distance from where the party was held.

However, the dead man’s uncle related that his nephew lost a lot of blood.

The uncle nevertheless stated that he was not aware if his nephew was involved in any criminal activities since he was dedicated to his ill father, whom he was taking care of.

“He provides for his father who is unable to move and … his father has to be receiving care on a 24-hour basis, so he is with him,” the uncle stated.

On the other hand, the Police are claiming that Rodney is a known character and has been engaged in several brushes with the law.

Meanwhile, detectives have recovered several spent shells at the scene that belonged to a small calibre weapon.

Showdown…

T

…at “Big Hospital”

o older folks, especially those from the rural areas, the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) is simply the “Big Hospital” to which they’d go or be sent when they get really sick. The implication being the Big Hospital was the last hope to avert death. Officially this was confirmed by the authorities dubbing it the top “tertiary” referral hospital. So you’d think the Government would ensure the GPHC functioned at the highest and most efficient level the country could manage. The British did.

During the PNC years, standards deteriorated precipitously – along with every other service in the country – and the GPHC became a sordid illustration of Dante’s representation of Hell, with all the tortured souls writhing in the various levels. The “Big Hospital” became a hospice – where folks entered “the Big Sleep”. During the PPP years, the Hospital was painfully improved – and while it still had a long way to go before it could reach first world standards, it slowly began to lose its reputation – epitomised by rats gnawing at babies’ toes during Hamilton Green’s stint as Health Minister.

One of the important innovations was to make the GPHC into an autonomous corporation – which would be run by a Board of Directors, free from the political interference that had poisoned every governmentrun institution. While the GPHC falls under the Public Health Ministry, the Board has representatives of several stakeholders and the Minister is supposed to get involved in operational matters but to only issue “policy” directives.

All that changed with the change of government was that a new Board was also formed. A potential conflict of interest existed because the Chairman of the Board is appointed by the Government via the Office of the Presidency. But the Chair, Max Hanoman insisted on being a professional. The Minister, Dr George Norton, however, had other ideas – especially as it had to do with the CEO Michael Khan. Khan would’ve been his administrator when he was a doctor at the hospital before the elections.

While a “forensic audit” of the GPHC was conducted, the CEO was sent on leave. He was subsequently reengaged by Hanoman but immediately, Minister Norton intervened though his Permanent Secretary to kick Khan out. One morning, the staff was surprised by an individual, claiming to be a Deputy CEO – a non-existent position – showed up. The Chairman stood his ground on Khan, while giving Norton’s “Pretender Dep CEO” the boot.

Hanoman has now been sacked by the Minister (surprise!) but freed from his professional muzzle, has now spilled the dirt on Norton. The man insisted on micromanaging the GPHC and ousting Khan.

The micromanaging your Eyewitness understands but wonders what Khan did to the Minister as his former supervisor!!

…a sheep in wolf’s clothing

Nagamootoo announced if the Government continued with funding a recovery plan for the sugar industry, it would be “raiding the Treasury”. Sugar must be allowed to collapse with no subsidies. And this was the man who boasted he’d convinced his running mate David Granger during the elections to change his mind on closing down GuySuCo. But then, he’d also announced via the Cummingsburg Accord he’d convinced the same running mate to have him chair Cabinet meetings as a new, powerful Prime Minister!! And we discern the pattern with this sheep in wolf’s clothing. He pretends he’s big and bad to “stand down” Granger, but all he’s interested in is to be comfortably warm in his “big position” and bleating like the sheep he is.

Isn’t subsidising Linden to the tune of $3 billion annually raiding the Treasury? Isn’t funding the Cabinet’s $1 billion salary increase, as proven by Edghill, raiding the Treasury?

But no…he figures he can play the wolf with sugar workers.

…on getting busy”

Raphael Trotman told the Guyanese people rather than moaning about the Budget, they should “get busy”.

This meant, his dictionary informed him, was “to have sex”.

Like in, “The couple was getting busy in the front room when the doorbell rang”!!

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

NEWS

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2016 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

President says Budget Budget 2017 will not be withdrawn …new taxes to give Govt needed fiscal space – Minister Henry 2017 “rounded”

D

espite mounting criticisms on certain measures adopted by the coalition Government in its 2017 Budget, President David Granger is of the view that the financial plan for the coming year is well rounded and is a step closer for his administration to achieve its objectives, one of which is to provide a ‘good life’ for all Guyanese.

During the taping of this week’s televised programme – The Public Interest – the Head of State posited that the Budget is a courageous fiscal plan that will bring change and move the country forward. He noted that cognizant of the resources available, Government proposed a plan that will be a vehicle to achieve its objectives.

“I believe Guyana has to be prepared for change and this budget is a budget that is going to bring about change.

For that reason, I think the population should look critically at the whole budget, not just bits and pieces, and ask if this is a vehicle that can move the country forward to that good life, that better life we promised and I think it is,” he asserted.

According to the Guyanese Leader, the 2017 financial plan covers the various sectors and also provides for the various needs of citizens in the coming year.

He noted that it caters for economic change, social protection and even greater security with regards to citizens being able to live in peace and safety from criminal attacks.

“In general, it promises Guyanese that we will move the country forward towards a ‘Green State’. It will introduce certain regulatory changes which will make businesses and individuals more compliant with the law; it will be able to develop the infrastructure of our country and it will improve the social services which are delivered to the public in terms of education, health and social protection. So I think it’s a rounded budget,” the President stressed.

Anxiety over VAT

While the coalition ad-

President David Granger

ministration is generally upbeat about the 2017 Budget Estimates and is vigorously defending the fiscal plan currently in the National Assembly during the debates, there continues to be anxiety among citizens over the highly controversial Value Added Tax (VAT) imposed on utility services such as water and electricity.

Commenting on this, President Granger explained that the purpose of taxation is to generate revenues to run the country and provide key services for the population. However, he pointed out that the imposition of VAT on these services is a means not just to earn revenue but also to curtail wastage of key resources.

“In the case of water and electricity, it is not punitive but curative in the sense that persons who waste water would now be careful in the use of water. It is not a tax on water but a tax on the excess use of water so I think we have to interpret the measures in terms of the policies which the Government intends to achieve or implement. It’s not taxes for the sake of taxes but to modify public behaviour,” he outlined.

Further asked whether he considers a bill over $1500 excess use of water, the President said he considers it “average”, especially given the fact that VAT has been reduced by his Administration, as promised, from 16 per cent to 14 per cent. He posited too that majority of the low income households would not be af-

fected by this since they do not use an amount of water that would cause them to be taxed with VAT. Moreover, the Guyanese Leader was questioned by reporters during the taping of the state-sponsored programme on Thursday, whether his Administration would be inclined to change any of the policies in the budget that has not gone down favourably with the public.

In response, President Granger stated that his Government has not been sufficiently persuaded that any of its measures are unlikely to achieve the objectives which it has set.

Nevertheless, he maintained that Government is looking at the debates and the commentaries in the media, which will be considered during the implementation of its plans and projects.

“I would say that we have listened to the debates, and in terms of implementation when the measures have to be implemented, we would bear in mind the comments and criticisms which were made. We don’t want to do anything that is harmful and hurtful to the general public but so far we have not seen any evidence that the measures that have been recommended are unlikely to do anything but help the Government or country to move forward,” he remarked.

B

udget 2017 is transformative and will not be withdrawn; further the taxation measures proposed are aimed at putting in place a growth reoriented system that would improve efficiency since the current A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) “inherited a broken system and that is no secret.”

The defiant position was adumbrated by Minister within the Education Ministry Nicolette Henry, who in her presentation to the debate on the 2017 Estimates said Guyana’s taxation system require practical measures.

She used the opportunity to call out the political opposition over a perceived hypocritical stance on the proposed taxation policies by the administration and recalled 2007 when the Value Added Tax (VAT) was introduced to Guyana under former President Bharrat Jagdeo, now Opposition Leader.

According to Minister Henry, at the time when VAT was introduced there had been similar outcries in opposition to the imposition of VAT from sections of society from groups such as Red Thread and other grassroots women organisations.

Minister Henry recalled that at the time, the then People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)

Minister within the Education Ministry Nicolette Henry

Administration opted to proceed with the imposition of the tax and told Guyanese to “look at the bigger picture.”

She said in that context the APNU/AFC Administration is also now calling on Guyanese, inclusive of the political Opposition and civil society, “to look at the bigger picture.”

According to Minister Henry, the Government desperately needs the fiscal and other space required in order to deliver on its objectives. The tax measure cannot only be good when you are introducing it, Minister Henry told the Opposition in the House during her presentation: “What is good for the goose is good for the gander” In an appeal to the pop-

ulace, Minister Henry said: “Let me say to people of this country, you should never allow yourself to be minimised by anyone by letting them telling you what they think you want to hear.”

She was adamant that responsible governments the world over have to make decisions that are prudent and far-sighted, “not only for people but for itself…we have to be given the space fiscal.”

According to Henry, after listening to kicking, screaming and bawling from the Opposition camp, it would be more productive and expressed optimism “that they will step up and see the big picture and play their individual and collective part.”

Selective amnesia

She posited it as interesting, to see how with the passage of time people’s views change and many can in fact suffer from selective amnesia.

According to Henry, in 2007 when the then Government introduced tax reform the nation was told that VAT would in fact be revenue neutral but “our experience taught us otherwise.”

Henry’s presentation to the debate on the 2017 Estimates followed that of Opposition MP Neendkumar who dismissed the 2017 Budget as “the Foundation of Governance by taxes.”

TURN TO PAGE 10

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NEWS

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2016 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Corentyne carpenter's murder

Accused make 1st Berbice court appearance amidst protests

Assistant Superintendent of Police Stephen Telford will prosecute

F

ive of the six accused in the Corentyne carpenter murder appeared at the Springlands Magistrate’s Court on Thursday amidst a protest demonstration by villagers calling for justice.

Scores or Corentyne residents of Number 70 Village including family of the dead man Faiyaz Narinedatt, 28, held placards outside of the court as the men arrived to make their first court appearance in Berbice.

They were quickly led inside as a few persons called them murderers.

Number one accused Marcus Bisram was absent. The other five: Orlando Dookie, Radesh Motie, Diadath Datt, Harripaul Parsram, and Niran Yacoob were present.

A s s i s t a n t Superintendent of Police Stephen Telford told Magistrate Charlyn Artiga that he has been appointed as prosecutor for the trial.

He asked for the matter to be adjourned until January 16 so that he can get himself acquainted with the facts.

Attorney Mescaline Bacchus representing the five accused argued that the men were initially charged two weeks ago and the Police should have all the facts before implementing the charges. Bacchus urged the court to bring forward the date by ten days.

However, Telford argued that the matter started one way but has changed and the Police need time to investigate new evidence which has surfaced. He said the Police are still working on the new evidence and will need some more time before they are ready to begin the preliminary inquiry.

The court ruled that 16 January was adequate time for the prosecution to be

en to get Bisram to attend court. He said the number one accused is currently out of the jurisdiction.

When the matter comes up again the prosecution will be expected to present a progress report.

Bisram, Dookie, Motie, Datt, Parsram, and Yacoob are accused of killing Narinedatt between October

31 and November 1, 2016, at Number 70 Village.

It had been reported that the carpenter’s body was discovered along the Corentyne Highway at Number 70 Village on November 1, at a scene which appeared to be that of a hit-and-run accident.

The Major Crime Unite got involved in the investi-

gations and a Sergeant and a Corporal attached to the Springlands CID were put under close arrest. They are still being investigated.

As the investigations continue a Deputy Superintendent of Police has been transferred out of the division. (Andrew Carmichael)

Budget 2017 will not...

Dead: Faiyaz Narinedatt

ready.

Meanwhile, Attorney Sanjeev Datadin who is representing Dookie and Motie asked for a copy of the Police file, noting that at the first hearing of the trial, the court had ruled that the prosecution must present the defence with a copy of the file and make a discloser.

Telford said he was unaware of this but promised to comply on or before the next court hearing.

Attorney Bernard DeSilva also entered an appearance for Motie.

Addressing the issue of the absence of Bisram, Telford told the court that legal steps are being tak-

According to Neendkumar, the contents and intent of the Government plan is lacking and, “falls short of the mark in so many areas that even the most rational minded citizen will see the many deficient aspects and the overall intent as a tool of burden and enslavement.”

Sporting his right arm in a sling as he read his prepared statement, Neendkumar expressed disappointment in the Budget that was presented to the National Assembly on November 28, by Finance Minister Winston Jordan, and posited that it will in fact “sink most of our people into recession deep, deep recession.”

He was adamant the 2017 APNU/AFC Budget is in fact a Budget meant only to benefit the “Fat Cats…

The Ministers and their friends and families who now occupy prestigious positions with hyper-super salaries and outlandish and outrageous employment benefits.”

Neendkumar told the House that ever since the presentation of the Budget, “the hue and cry of the people of this country has become deafening.” According to the former Sports Director in the PPP/C Administration, “the condemnations and criticism from the grassroots level to the higher echelon of society is the order of the day…people are voicing their disgust through the social media, the newspapers and the electronic media, of what the 2017 Budget means for this country, and support for the Opposition Leader’s (Bharrat Jagdeo) view that it is the worst bud-

FROM PAGE 9

get ever.”

Seeking to contextualise his arguments against the 2017 Budget, Neendkumar drew reference to the 2016 Budget and its promises of a ‘Good Life.’

According to the opposition MP, what instead obtained is rising unemployment among youth, an increase in crime, a decline in the forestry, rice and sugar sectors, in addition to the rising cost of living, the scaling back of businesses in the manufacturing sector, increased taxes, reduced economic growth and a wage freeze in the sugar industry, among other untoward realities.

“With a 2017 Budget in its present nature, next year would certainly be worse that this year,” according to the opposition back-bencher.

NEWS

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2016 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

None will escape paying VAT on electricity and water, not even the poor

… APNU/AFC’s counter arguments a fallacy ― Seeraj

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one will escape paying Value Added Tax (VAT), not even the poor as is being touted by officialdom, since VAT charges will, either directly or indirectly, impact a consumer People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Member of Parliament, Dharamkumar Seeraj, advanced this position, as he delivered his contribution to the debate on the 2017 National Estimates on Thursday, calling the Government’s counter arguments in support of VAT “a fallacy.”

According to Seeraj, “Our citizens are expressing their discomfort…their disappointment and recently their horror as the Budget unfolds.”

He told the House the most recent onslaught by the administration has to do with the taxing of a basic essential for existence.

According to Seeraj, the word Guyana literally means ‘land of many waters’ but, “we are being taxed for water,” a sentiment that evoked heckle from the Government benches, “not free water though.”

Turning his attention to deconstructing arguments proffered to by Government speakers with regards the application of VAT on electricity and water, Seeraj was adamant “everyone will be paying the VAT.” He pointed to the arguments by Government presenters that a large band of consumers will not have to pay VAT since their electricity bill is below the VATable threshold of $10,000 per

month, and $1500 on water.

According to the PPP/C MP, most Guyanese utilise bottled water and therefore the suppliers of that commodity will no doubt be paying VAT which will consequently be passed on to the consumers. The same scenario obtains for electricity.

“None will escape, so this argument being put forward that you will not be paying is a fallacy…there is no way anyone of us can escape paying VAT on water.”

According to Seeraj, even if a consumer’s electric bill was to be below $10,000 per month, that person will still be exposed to bearing the cost of the application of VAT on electricity.

“You don’t live in the isolation of your home so once you purchase any manufactured commodity the cost of that VAT will be in the price of that commodity.” He was adamant that government’s argument in support of the application of VAT on electricity and water does not hold and that “Guyanese all over have pronounced.”

Consultations needed

Not wanting to adopt the same strategy of the majority of his colleagues who have called for the withdrawal of the 2017 Budget, Seeraj instead suggested that it be taken to the incinerator and destroyed, “Do that and come back fresh to this House after consulting with the people.”

He used the occasion to also lament some of the presentations by Government speakers, saying instead of focusing on the contents of

MP Dharamkumar Seeraj

the Budget, they instead sought to laud the early presentation of the Budget.

Seeraj also sought to rebut some of the arguments put forward by Government speakers such as Business Minister Dominic Gaskin, who said the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) had left an unsustainable growth rate in the economy.

The PPP/C MP told the House that the coalition A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC), in fact, inherited an economy that had experienced sustained economic growth for one full decade during which the world was in the centre of the worst global recession in recent memory.

He said, “Isn’t that testimony of sustainable development…How can a Minister of Business stand up and say we did not leave them a sus-

tainable economy…we just have to look at the record.”

Looking to qualify his pronouncements with regard the negatives surrounding the imposition of VAT, Seeraj recalled for the House that the Minister of Finance in presenting the 2017 Budget said: “The budget was crafted to maintain and enhance revenue stream.”

According to Seeraj, the Budget is in fact crafted to tax our people more, “extreme taxation on our people that will result in them getting poorer and poorer as we move along.”

He told the House that Minister Jordan in trying to garner more revenue to meet the huge $250 billion Budget has cast his net far and wide to see where it is that the revenues will come in.

Qualifying his position, Seeraj told the House that if one were to mine gold this would be done at some interior location with proven deposits as against spinning a batel outside of the Marriott Hotel.

Seeraj said the same obtains with a rice farmer who would go to fertile lands to sow his crop as against an arid piece of land.

He said that it is in this same vein that the Minister of Finance looked to see where the bulk of the revenues can be had which eventually led to VAT being applied on electricity and water.

According to Seeraj, when the Minister sought to put VAT on water and electricity it was a studied approached that identified the two areas

as viable to garnish revenue.

He told the House that the Minister has deliberately omitted to document the VAT-related figures in the National Assembly saying, “He cleverly stayed away from listing the amount that this will bring in.”

According to Seeraj, the

PPP/C has conservatively estimated the windfall to be an additional $50 billion and, “that is why the Minister did not put in budget…They know very well what is going to be the outcome of these new measures that he is proposing.”

Neil Marks booted as Guyana Chronicle Sunday Editor

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he Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL) on Thursday announced that it has terminated the services of its Sunday Editor, Neil Marks, whose actions have “seriously compromised the production of the newspaper”.

In a statement, the entity said it regretted the decision but “Management as guided by the Board of Directors found it necessary in order to protect the newspaper.”

It went on to say that despite the obligations and responsibilities assigned to Marks in a senior position, his actions on more than one occasion have seriously compromised the production of the newspaper.

“It is imperative that GNNL, at all times, guard against the impairing of the critical service it provides as a public service media house,” the newspaper said in a statement.

The media house pointed out that a dedicated team of persons work beyond the call of duty to ensure the Guyana Chronicle is on the

Neil Marks

newsstand every morning.

“It is untenable that their work and that service are jeopardised by the actions of one individual in a senior position,” the GNNL noted.

Editor-in-Chief Nigel Williams will oversee the responsibilities for the Sunday edition until a substantive Sunday Editor is appointed.

Finally, the GNNL wishes to thank Marks and wishes him well in his future endeavours, the release added.

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news

friDAY, december 9, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

CC&PA not very effective in their work

– Help and Shelter Coordinator

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elp and Shelter Director and Project Coordinator Margaret Kertzious has upbraided the Child Care and Protection Agency (CC&PA) for deficiencies in providing effective care for children who are victims of abuse and neglect.

Kertzious, during an interview with Guyana Times explained that the agency and the local non-governmental organisation had a close collaborative relationship, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to refer cases of child abuse to the agency: “We have had a close relationship with the agency in terms of referring child abuse cases and following up on them.”

However, based on referrals, the NGO has become aware of the deficiencies in the agency. She labelled the system for child protection as very “ineffective.”

According to Kertzious:

CC&PA Director Ann Green “They are the ones responsible for monitoring cases of child abuse but sometimes they lapse big time…. their job is not being done effectively,” she added, pointing to the fact that when the agency would seek their help for emergency placement of children, CC&PA would not provide the relevant information, including the child’s history.

Alluding to other areas of concern, she explained that the shelter has a client that

has children in foster care service but is being denied the right to visit them. “Why is this so? The correct procedure is not being followed to ensure that this woman visits her children.”

According to several other Help and Shelter representatives, the shelter is well aware of the deficiencies and absence of an effective, inclusive, transparent and wellpublicised national child protection policy, plan and system.

The representatives are of the view that the agency lacks the human and financial resources to adequately respond to the number of child abuse cases reported to them.

However, when contacted Director of CC&PA, Ann Green, opted not to respond to the matter, only saying that she will react at a later date.

Kertzious stated that while there have been many consultations and promises

of collaboration between the CC&PA and the shelter, this has not materialised except for the referrals.

She noted that prior to the establishment of the agency, Help and Shelter offered successful psycho-social counselling and court support services to hundreds of children abused, including survivors of sexual violence, but now their face-to-face and court support counselling services are not being utilised by the agency: “These services were successful in the past and we have offered them these services but they have never responded to us.”

Meanwhile, the Help and Shelter representatives stated that while they welcome the provision in the 2017 Budget for parenting programmes, it is still not enough. They however agreed wholeheartedly that all child protection programmes have a duty and responsibility to not only address the needs of children,

A subaltern history II

M

y mother S a r j o o d a i Persaud passed on to what she hoped would be a “good” rebirth this Monday morning in New York City. She survived my father Anirood Persaud by a dozen years after sixty years of marriage. My surname “Dev” and not “Persaud” is a signifier of the official “married status” they were Ravi Dev denied after their marriage

by Hindu rites in 1945. My father’s name “not stated”, even though it was he who registered my name.

While history has been dominated by the “great men” perspective or of impersonal “historical forces” unfolding, of recent, there has been an attempted rectification of this jaundiced historiography by some historians who take a “subaltern” perspective. That is, to look at the contributions of the ordinary folks, in effectuating change – independently of the men on horseback and other elites.

I look at my mother’s life through these lens.

Born in 1929 at De Willem, she grew up on Plantation Uitvlugt during the depression that drove down sugar prices and wages of the workers. She was ten years old (and remembered) when four workers were shot at neighbouring Plantation Leonora for protesting their working day which had stretched far beyond even that of the indentureship period.

She left school after Standard 3 (Grade 5) and at 16 married my 19-year-old father in 1945. It was not an “arranged” marriage and she had “seen” my father who took care to pass by her home daily. They were given a room in the same logie at the “Letter A” section of Uitvlugt in front of the “Bajan quarters”. I was her third child born there before they moved to the house they built at “Ocean View” Uitvlugt in 1952, one of the earliest housing schemes built through loans offered by the sugar producers. My remaining seven siblings were born there.

A remarkable change occurred with her generation: with the recent eradication of malaria and better sanitary conditions, her family of twelve was the average during the fifties. It created a bulge in the population that was to have a significant political effect later. At the age of seven I was sent to live with her parents, my Nannie and Nana, when my aunt and their last child was married and left them alone. Even though we had a running banter until her death about her “giving me away”, I had a unique opportunity to observe her life during my visits.

Most of the women of her generation on the sugar plantation did not go to work in the cane fields as their mothers had. They had to be tremendously hard working and exceptionally creative to raise their large families on a single meagre salary. Most of the responsibility fell on them. A “good husband” such as my father was, would give his paycheque to his wife, sans a small deduction for his “entertainment” and she was expected to literally “deliver the goods”.

She and her children raised chickens, turkeys, goats in addition to cultivating a vegetable plot behind their house. They planted and reaped by hand the two acre “rice bed” passed down by her grandfather’s from the exchange of his return passage to India. She learnt “sewing” to make her children’s clothes into their teens.

She learnt embroidery to create “window blinds”, table cloths, bed-sheets from well washed cotton flour bags.

She and my father vowed none of their children would work in the cane fields and through tremendous sacrifice, and the opening of free secondary schools during the first PPP Government of the early sixties, they managed to keep their promise. They all went on to be successful adults. Her secret, I believe, were the values she passed on to them from their culture especially from the Ramayan. This narrative of family life and the fulfilment of duty offered the intellectual framework for the living example my mother and father offered.

She was very proud that they emigrated to the US at an age when their peers had retired and were yet able to own their own house and see their dozens of grandchildren and great grands at the annual reunions.

She was particularly proud she visited India in search of her ancestral village.

NEWS

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2016 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Essequibo Leo Club fetes children, senior citizens for the holidays

The children enjoying their treats, compliments of the Essequibo Leo Club

Courts customers win big in Christmas promotion

hypertension levels were tested.

In addition, 62 needy children from Onderneeming were also treated to a lunch, ice-cream, a goodies bag and a toy from Santa Claus.

The excited children also had a "dancing" time with Santa, who set the mood for Christmas.

The Club's President, Leo Thareshme Persaud, noted that the club is happy to extend its services to the elders and children during The lucky winners in Courts' Christmas Promotion pose with their prizes

I This little girl is happy to receive a gift from Santa

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he Christmas festivities have begun and the Leo Club on the Essequibo Coast is spreading the holiday cheer to children and senior citizens in the region.

The Club, in fulfilling its mandate of service to the less fortunate, hosted two

Guests at the senior citizens party

Christmas parties, where over 40 senior citizens were treated to a luncheon at the Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary School.

Guests were treated to lunch and a hamper, and free medical service was also provided by a team from the Suddie Public Hospital.

Senior citizens’ diabetes and

the festive season. Among the other humanitarian works, Persaud explained that the club recently donated fans to the Suddie Public Hospital as well as erected a sign board at Aberdeen Village.

She also used the opportunity to extend Christmas wishes to all Guyanese.

t is officially the season of sharing and giving and Courts Guyana Inc is going full out as it rewarded customers who participated in its ongoing Christmas Promotion. As part of the promotion, Courts handed over $5.5 million in cash and prizes at its Main Street Branch, Georgetown, on Thursday morning.

Three lucky customers who shopped TCL televisions won $1 million each and three who purchased Whirlpool appliances were awarded $500,000 each in cash, to be used in Courts shopping spree.

The winnings did not end there: six customers won groceries valuing $100,000

after they shopped $49,000 and over.

Eight customers were each awarded with dinner vouchers for the Grand Coastal Inn. And finally, two lucky customers would go to the Aruwai Resort’s ball to be hosted Old Year’s night.

Sharon Persaud the Company’s representative in handing over the winning cash said that Courts is indeed delighted to give back.

She noted that each year Courts Inc ensures that it does something special for its customers.

Guyana Times spoke with a few of the winners.

Viola Brandford-Charles, one of the million-dollar

winners said that she has been a customer of Courts for a number of years and is elated to have won.

Bisoon Dilall another winner, who received a $100,000 groceries cheque, expressed her joy also to be a winner, having been a customer of Courts for a number of years.

“I’m so happy, I’m overjoyed, like I don’t know what to say, I’m speechless” were the words of another million-dollar winner.

Over the years Courts Guyana Inc has made it a tradition to always show customer appreciation through exciting and rewarding promotions.

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friday, deceMber 9, 2016

News

Almost 30 new cases of 105 years for co-accused in domestic violence every Bartica, Lusignan massacres month – Help and Shelter A

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lose to thirty cases of domestic abuse are recorded every month at the Help and Shelter organization, this is according to its Director and Project Coordinator, Margaret Kertzious.

The Director pointed out that the figures for violence against women are rising rapidly, with only a minority of men reporting abuse at the hands of their spouse.

“For the women, the numbers are larger while there are only a small percentage of men,” she said, adding that the non-governmental organisation has been recording about 30 new cases every month within the last year.

“Something has to be done and it has to be done soon,” she noted. Kertzious, is one among many other Help and Shelter representatives, who have voiced their concerns against the Government not fulfilling its manifesto promises as it relates to women.

In a statement released earlier this week, Help and Shelter had pointed out that in spite of the hosting of a national women’s conference and many consultation sessions, no gender policy has been drafted. In 2015, the NGO submitted written recommendations for Guyana’s gender policy to the Social Protection Ministry’s Gender Unit. However, a year later, the Gender Unit is awaiting a gender specialist and still

Director and Project Coordinator of Help & Shelter, Margaret Kertzious

consulting in the regions.

The NGO further stated that during the past 18 months, domestic violence has continued to escalate, and femicide (killing of women by intimate partners) has continued to claim the lives of at least one woman a month, making Guyana one of the countries with the highest per capita rates for women being murdered as a result of domestic violence, and leaving scores of vulnerable children not only motherless but fatherless, as many of the killers either committed suicide or are imprisoned.

“This cannot be the good life promised for the countless victims and survivors of gender-based violence, including orphaned and at risk children. It seems that the failure of Government to deliver a national response to the problem of domestic vio-

lence, lumping it within the category of interpersonal violence and failing to deliver a coherent and informed national gender policy, bodes no good for the advancement of women and girls and gender equality in Guyana,” the NGO in its missive stated.

Help and Shelter also expressed the concern that UNICEF has stated that ‘boys and girls in Guyana are exposed to elevated levels of sexual, psychological and physical abuse at home and in their communities and that exposure to gender-based violence in the home ‘contributes to the aggravated situation of violence against children’.

According to the 2016 US State Department report on Guyana, “Domestic violence and violence against women, including spousal abuse, was widespread.

The law prohibits domestic violence and allows victims to seek prompt protection, occupation, or tenancy orders from a Magistrate”.

The report added that out of the 2170 reports of domestic violence cases received by the Police, only 1131 persons were charged; this is for the year 2015.

Kertzious expressed the hope that the recent establishment of a Sexual and Domestic Violence Unit within the Social Protection Ministry would result in overdue actions being taken to address the issue.

2017 Budget Debates

Govt tells Opposition “Do suh nah like suh”

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he People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has been engaged in feeding the nation halftruths and misinformation as the debates on the 2017 Budget unfolds, since “do suh nah like suh.”

Vice President and Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge delivered this charge to the National Assembly and accused the PPP/C of peddling fabrications as it promulgates its thesis that economic growth only ever took place under that Administration.

Looking to set the record straight, Greenidge who served as Finance Minister pre-1992, said the PPP/C in fact inherited growth in the economy’s Gross Domestic Product at six per cent.

Lamenting the contributions of the Opposition speakers, Greenidge said there was no mention of the illegal expenditure that obtained under the PPP/C. According to Greenidge, the PPP/C’s presentations also omitted entirely the noconfidence vote or the proro-

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge

gation of Parliament, neither was there any mention of illegal actions of the former Finance Minister’s on the advice of a rogue Attorney General – a statement he was forced to withdraw by Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland.

Greenidge told the House that the PPP/C speakers have instead been pre-occupied with repeated tales about alleged misbehaviour of the coalition A Partnership

for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government during its 18 months since taking the reins of the Administration.

He further told the House that it was disappointing to see Opposition speakers attempt to relegate the debate to focus on race and ethnic division.

According to Greenidge, the ‘crocodile tears’ employed by the Opposition in seeking to stoke a racial divide, especially among the indigenous population, was disappointing, adding that “we have seen the croc in action and the tears fool no one.”

Vice President Greenidge told the House that during the 23 years the PPP/C had been in office, they bludgeoned the public with selective economic indicators.”

According to the Vice President, “We find ourselves in which the discussion of the budget is couched and surrounded by a set of largely irrelevant issues and attempts to divert attention from the substance of the Budget.”

co-accused in the Bartica and Lusignan massacres was on Thursday afternoon sentenced to 105 years imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to 20 counts of manslaughter in both massacres.

In a dramatic and shocking twist of events at the High Court, Michael Caesar, 34, pleaded guilty to eight counts of manslaughter for the 2008 Lusignan massacre as well as to 12 counts of manslaughter in October for 2008 Bartica massacre.

Caesar was accused of unlawfully killing Clarence Thomas, 48, his daughter Vanessa Thomas, 12, and his son Ron Thomas 11; Mohandai Gourdat, 32, and her two sons, Seegobind Harrilall, 4, and Seegopaul Harrilall, 10; Shazam Mohamed, 22; and Shaleem Baksh, 55; on January 26, 2008, at Track ‘A’ Lusignan.

State Prosecutor Diana Kaulesar stated that on the day in question, the accused met with “Fine Man” and other members of his squad at Buxton Line Top where they were engaged in Guinness drinking and smoking of marijuana. The court heard that Caesar had planned to raid a house at Lusignan which they heard had two barrels of money.

She added that the men later that night entered Lusignan through Buxton backlands and were unsure of which house contained the money. As such the men decided to start raiding a number of houses to get the cash, however Caesar stated that they came up empty-handed after barging into several houses.

Kaulesar highlighted that Caesar claims he was never in possession of a firearm and he never killed any of the victims. Instead he stated that he only ransacked the houses in search of the barrels of money.

Caesar was further ac-

Michael Caesar

cused of unlawfully killing Zaheer Zakir, 30, Shane Fredericks, 35, Ron Osborne, Dexter Adrian, 37, Irving Ferreira, 72, Abdool Yassin Jr, Deonarine Singh, 54, Errol Thomas, Ronald Gomes, Irwin Gilkes, 42, Ashraf Khan, 45, and Baldeo Singh, 54.

Senior social and probation officer Aggrey Azore attached to the Ministry of Social Protection told Justice George in his report that he have come to the conclusion that the accused has suffered badly at the hands of a dysfunctional home. However he pointed out that many others have suffered from a broken home but they have not become a danger to society.

In his report he stated that Caesar indicated that he is remorseful for his actions also signalling fear of retribution by Fine Man’s gang.

Justice George who appeared baffled by the probation officer’s judgment stated that she finds it difficult to believe that Caesar was fearful and hesitated in the participation of the massacres, since in less than a month he committed another horrific crime claiming the lives of twelve more persons.

Meanwhile Azore maintained his position on the analysis of the defendant.

He also included that he spoke with members of the community who shared positive and negative comments about Caesar. He stated that some persons said he was a willing boy in the neighbourhood while others said his name was synonymous with a number of crimes.

In mitigation, Caesar told the court that he came to the city at a tender age and followed the wrong company.

“I came in town at a very young age and I followed the wrong company. I would like to show the deceased family mercy [sympathy]. I would like to change my life around to be a better person,” stated Caesar.

Justice George told the accused that he should have shown the deceased mercy instead of now saying he would like to offer mercy.

However, she told him she knows what he means but he was callous to the people’s lives.

Justice George told the accused that she has considered that fact of the senior social and probation officer reports and she will not grant him life imprisonment but he will have a very long time in prison.

In addition she stated that the court has to be cognizant of the fact that 20 persons lost their lives including children which is heart-wrecking.

She further noted that the court has to send a clear message to the young people that joining gangs is not the way to go.

Caesar was sentenced to 45 years in each of the eight counts of the Lusignan indictment while he was sentenced to 60 years in each of the 12 counts of indictment in the Bartica massacre.

Justice George said that Caesar will have to spend at least 40 calendar years in jail before he can attempt to acquire parole.

Investigation into Gafoors fire ongoing

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D i v i s i o n a l (Georgetown-East Bank Demerara) Commander Clifton Hicken has stated that Police are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the second blaze at Gafoors Houston Complex, Greater Georgetown in October.

Hicken stated that two persons were held in November and they have provided crucial information concerning another individual; however, the lead was futile.

“We were unable to find the other person but the investigation is ongoing,” he said. Police were following a lead that a city busi-

nessman paid two men to set the Gafoors Houston Complex on fire.

One of the two men was detained and during questioning allegedly told investigators that he and his accomplice were paid to commit the act, a source close to the investigation had disclosed.

The source stated that the businessman, who is the owner of a dry goods business, allegedly paid the two men $40,000 to torch the bond.

The source said the suspect reportedly told the Police that he and his accomplice were responsible for the two fires that devastated Chief Executive

Officer Sattaur Gafoor and hundreds of his workers.

The suspect was said to be a former employee of Gafoors.

The CEO had stated that despite what persons might think, he did everything within his power to prevent another fire and so it shocked him when “just 10 hours after we opened the bond, it burnt down”.

The veteran Guyanese industrialist had told the media that the previous fire placed a lot of financial strain on the company and the Board of Directors had taken a decision on what to do in the event of another occurrence.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

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News

President must fire entire Cabinet over 2017 Budget … shares collective responsibility in negligence, malpractice – Bishop Edghill

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ead of State David Granger should immediately fire his entire Cabinet Council of Ministers since they would have failed in their collective responsibility as dictated by the Constitution of Guyana, to competently advise him with regard the preparation of the 2017 Budget, due to negligence and malpractice.

This is the disposition of former Minister within the Finance Ministry, Bishop Juan Edghill who called Budget 2017, as presented by substantive Minister Winston Jordan, an assault on the Private Sector and young professionals all over the country – professionals who have all had all their allowances slashed as a result of the measures being introduced by the Administration.

“Every sector of the population has cried out against the budget and is this the budget that they have sat and decided to present to the nation,” he queried.

Edgehill in his presentation to the Debates over the 2017 allocations sought to

dissect the figures by pointing out that Government has in fact already slashed its own budget down from $250 billion to the actual allocations of $228 billion.

The former Minister qualified his position by pointing to the decision by the Administration to have all budgetary allocations for Budget agencies and statutory bodies subject to paying Value Added Tax (VAT).

He told the House that the move came about through an act of desperation on the part of the coalition A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government.

According to Edghill, $19 billion from the 2017 Budget has to be immediately deducted since this represents payments for foreign debts and will not actually be considered under the Appropriation Act. The remaining money will then have to be deducted by 14 per cent which heads straight back to the consolidated fund as VAT revenues in order for Government to

PPP/C MP Juan Edghill

fund its programmmes.

Calling the move a desperate act of getting resources, Edghill told the House that Government is seeking to take away $21 billion from the budgetary expenditure to go back into the Treasury as VAT, “robbing the people of goods and service.”

Bishop Edghill said too he empathises with Finance Minister Jordan since none of the Government speakers to the debate has dared to

defend the 57 taxation measures to be implemented.

“What they have all sought to do is explain how they will spend the money they will get… they are not standing with him as it relates to the measures on how he will collect the money to give to them,” according to Edghill.

He did offer an acknowledgement to the Finance Minister, saying Minister Jordan did in fact diagnose the economy correctly.

Edghill referred to Jordan’s presentation of the budget on November 28 last when he conceded that almost every sector with the exception of gold mining had declined significantly during the past year.

Notwithstanding this disclosure on the part of the Finance Minister, Edghill said the budget measures outlined will not act as an incentive for any of the declining sectors.

According to Edghill, “it will make it worse and the one sector that is doing well they have now put a strangulation on it.”

He was adamant Cabinet is guilty of malpractice and negligence and it is on those grounds they ought to be fired.

According to the former Minster, “if the President don’t fire them, the people of Guyana will fire them.”

Edghill said the declining sectors of the economy can only mean the loss of jobs.

Budgets, according to the former Junior Finance Minister must focus on priorities, and as such, the 2017 Budget has aptly demonstrated where the priorities of the APNU/AFC Administration lie, “their priorities is taxation.”

Meanwhile, on the matter of the declining economy, Edghill used the occasion to point out that it was not a case where the Private Sector had performed badly but rather a large chunk of the blame lies in the fact that the Government’s Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP) had not achieved its objectives and had lagged significantly behind.

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson in his presentation to the House earlier in the day, lamented the pace of the implementation of the PSIP. According to Patterson, the pace of implementation in 2016 was not as in anticipated “but we have improved capacity,” He told the House that the Public Infrastructure Ministry has since been able to put district engineers and clerk of works in each administrative region.

Patterson was adamant that there has been significant development in the short space of time and the APNU/AFC Administration has been in office and with an early budget there will be time to complete the projects as set out in 2017 Budget.

He had commenced his presentation to the House by saying Government is “working to transform this land into a heaven on earth.”

According to Patterson, the measures in Budget 2017 will see Government achieving its stated goal.

Holland, Arindell re- Govt, Opposition MPs square off over usage of Sussex Street drug bond elected to Linden – House deployed team to inspect facility Municipality

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arwyn Holland has returned as Mayor of the Linden Mayor and Town Council (LM&TC ) following the hosting of mayoral elections in the township on Thursday.

Deputy Mayor Waneka Arindell was also successful in regaining her post.

Apart from Holland nine councillors were present to participate in the voting process which commenced at 09:28h. Holland was nominated by Councillor Elize Benjamin, and seconded by Councillor Derron John.

Councillor Devin Sears was also nominated for the mayoral post by Councillor Fern Mckoy, and seconded by Councillor Lennox Gasper.

In total six councillors voted in favour of Holland, with Sears securing two votes. The process also saw Councillor Fern Mckoy moving a motion for secret ballots which was seconded by Gasper however the motion was voted against by the Council.

The motion was moved after the nomination of Councillor Devin Sears.

Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor Waneka Arindell was unopposed, with all nine councillors voting for her to be reappointed.

Following his reappointment Holland expressed gratitude to the Council and during an interview with this newspaper indicated that he was happy the process was a “fair and democratic” one. He noted too that he was happy that local democracy was on full display, referencing that there was also a challenge for Mayorship.

The Mayor said he is also happy since it is also a victory for the coalition A Partnership For National Unity (APNU). He said he will continue to work in unity and along the projection started, to encourage local and foreign investors as well as

improve job creation. Holland said he believes the Council will continue to work to bridge gaps and move on with the business of the town, while also expressing optimism in continuing to work with the Deputy Mayor.

Following the voting Councillor Sears said he was grateful that councillors expressed confidence in him, noting that he believes it was not a vindictive move of any sort. The process, he opined, was a smooth and fair one, and he will continue to work and support the Holland-led administration.

Sears said that Arindell was reelected because councillors believe she has worked to the best of her ability and that she will continue to work in the best interest of Lindeners.

Meanwhile, in contrast, Councillor Gasper shared opposing views on the process. While he commended the nominees, he said the election was led by “coercion, fear, intimidation and threats”. According to him there were a number of threats which went around for councillors to vote for the reappointment of the Mayor. He also noted that the process was more of a political nature than a democratic one.

He also commended Sears for his bravery to accept the nomination that was put forward.

On Thursday, Holland also named himself as Chairman of the Finance Committee, while Arindell will replace Councillor Gasper as Administrative and Legal Affairs Chairman. Wainwright Bethune returns as head of the Environmental Committee, Derrick Collins as head of the Agricultural Committee and Councillor Rawle Friday as Security Chairman.

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ollowing a back-and-forth between Members of Parliament, People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Anil Nandlall and Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton, on whether the controversial Sussex Street facility that was rented by Government for in excess of $14 million to store pharmaceuticals was being used, a delegation was sent by House Speaker Dr Barton Scotland to visit the bond on Thursday evening.

The issue arose when Nandlall,

Hermina Gilgeours to visit the facility and verify whether drugs are being stored there. Government Chief Whip Amna Ally nominated Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence, while Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira nominated PPP/C parliamentarian Irfaan Ali. Also accompanying the delegation were Minister Norton and Junior Public Health Minister, Dr Karen Cummings along with Opposition second bencher Juan Edghill.

After their arrival at the Bond,

Opposition and Government MPs waiting to enter the bond

during his contribution to the debate on the 2017 National Budget, claimed that no medications are being stored at the facility, which Government is expending millions of dollars on. The Public Health Minister immediately objected to the statement, saying that the bond was in fact being used.

However, the Opposition MP maintained his position since he would have received reports that the bond was not in use and only last week the bridge in front of the building was completed.

The exchange between the MPs prompted the Speaker to identify a team, led by Deputy Clerk

the MPs had to wait for approximately 40 minutes before they were allowed to enter. While inside, the team inspected the facility and discovered items being stored, which included condoms, IUD (Intrauterine Device) insertion kits, lubricants and umbilical cord clamps.

Opposition MP Ali pointed out to the media that there were no sight of any pharmaceuticals being stored there. Furthermore, he pointed out that the facility does not seem to be in operation.

“Nothing seems operational here… the bond has to show a semblance of operation, there have to be inventory control systems in place

and so on… In any internationally accredited bond, there is an inventory system, an inventory management system (and) there is a storage system because medical supplies have to be stored in a particular way,” he stated, while he noted that the temperature of the facility was “hot”.

After raising concerns about not seeing any “tablets” being stored at the facility, Minister Lawrence was quick to defend her colleague Minister Norton. “Y’all stop harassing this man here… Stop tarnishing Dr Norton’s reputation,” she told the Opposition MPs, who were enquiring about actual pharmaceuticals at the facility.

Back at the National Assembly, Ali informed the House that while they were allowed to check the bond, there was no sight of any drugs, and he related the items that were found.

The Speaker pointed out that based on what the Deputy Clerk related the bond seemed to be in use.

However, Nandlall insisted that he was talking about the storage of tablets and drugs specifically.

Meanwhile, Lawrence also reported to the House that there were several boxes at the facility and some of them were opened and examined by the Deputy Clerk.

This prompted the House to review the recording from Nandlall’s presentation earlier that evening to ascertain the term he used, which he maintained was “medication”.

It was subsequently suggested that the transcript be produced today to make a determination of what was actually said by the Opposition MP. Despite objections from the parliamentary Opposition, who wanted the matter to be dealt with forthwith, the Speaker deferred the matter until today.

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friDay, december 9, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

Region 2 projects moving at a snail’s pace

... implementation of Budget 2016 lagging – Regional Chairman

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he implementation of Region Two’s budget has been moving at a snail’s pace, and scores of residents living in the agricultural region from Pomeroon to Supenaam have been complaining bitterly as many of the bridges and roads are still to be fixed.

In total, Region Two’s overall budget for 2016 is $3,432,836,000 which includes Capital and current expenditure.

According to Regional Chairman Devanand Ramdatt, as of November 30, 2016, only 85 per cent of the budget or $2.9 billion was utilised.

During an interview with Guyana Times on Wednesday, Ramdatt reminded that last year, approximately $79 million was sent back to the National Treasury. As a result, many beneficial projects which

Region Two Chairman Devanand Ramdatt

could have enhanced the livelihood of residents were not executed.

He further explained that only 79 per cent of road maintenance works were completed.

The Regional Chairman said many residents are visiting his office expressing their concerns over the condition of several roads and

areas that are filled with pot holes.

“There is still much to be done with regards to the maintenance of bridges, drainage and irrigation works and maintenance of infrastructure,” Ramdatt added.

In relation to all the unspent monies, the Regional Chairman registered his concern that if there is not a timely utilisation of funds, then the region will see the allocation being sent back to the national coffers.

Residents and farmers will then be denied meaningful developmental projects, he stressed.

Residents are therefore calling on the Regional Executive Officer, Rupert Hopkinson, to ensure that the monies allocated for Region Two are spent wisely, to ensure the continued progress in all sectors within the region.

Essequibo farmer loses $1.5M in cash crops after his land was sprayed

― suspect still at large

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father of four from Adventure Village in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) is now clueless as to how he would provide for his family now that his livelihood has been intentionally destroyed by someone who sprayed his farm.

Devendra Persaud cultivates 17.9 acres in the Onderneeming Sandpit area and according to him he has lost an estimated $1.5 million in crops.

The man related that upon visiting his farm on December 5 he discovered that the area had been sprayed with a substance suspected to be poison. Over 1200 tomatoes, 300 peppers, 600 bora, and a quantity of water melon were destroyed.

All the plants he said, were in bearing stages.

Clueless as to his next move, Persaud said after inspect-

The damaged tomato crop

A damaged section of the farm

ing his land he immediately made a report at the Suddie Police Station, after which Police ranks promptly visited the scene. However, the suspect remains at large.

The man is contemplating his next move: “I nicely plant my crops so that Christmas I can reap, everything would have come in for Christmas. The suspect is out there, he has

been threatening me on a number of occasions.”

Persaud, who recently took a loan from IPED is pondering how to repay that loan since his crop has been destroyed. The distraught farmer is therefore calling for the Police to apprehend the suspect.

He is seeking any assistance to recultivate his farm.

Linden duo remanded for larceny

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wo men who hail from Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) were remanded to prison by Magistrate Clive Nurse on Wednesday when they appeared at the Linden Magistrate’s Court to answer to the offence of break and enter and larceny.

Lester Drakes, 19, of Half Mile, Wismar, and Jevon Nelson, 26, of Amelia’s Ward, Mackenzie, are accused of stealing a number of items from the home of an Amelia’s Ward resident.

It is alleged that on

Tuesday, November 29, they broke and entered the home of Esther Benjamin at Central Amelia’s Ward, and stole three gold chains valued $150,000, a pair of gold bracelets valued $100,000, two pairs of gold earrings valued $50,000, a BlackBerry cellphone valued $30,000, a quantity of clothing valued $75,000, a cosmetic bag valued $5000, and five packs of costume jewellery valued $10,000 and US$500.

They are scheduled to return to court on January 11, 2017.

guyanatimesgy.com

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s competition intensifies at the Miss World pageant, Guyana’s representative Nuriyyih Gerrard is optimistic that she will make the cut in the final 20 when the names are announced on the night of December 18.

However, several preliminary competitions are already underway and with a week to pageant night, the 104 delegates from across the world will be competing in the multimedia competition.

This year, the Miss World Committee has integrated with mobile app Mobstar to select the winner of the talent competition and the multimedia portion of the competition.

The winner of the talent competition will be chosen through Mobstar and will be fast-tracked automatically to the Top 20 semi-finalists of Miss World 2016 on December 18.

In addition, the winner of the multimedia competition will also be chosen through Mobstar and will also be fasttracked automatically to the Top 20. However, the Top 10 finalists for talent were announced earlier this week and include Poland (singing), Hungary (acrobatics), Latvia (dancing), Mongolia (magician), Chile (violinist), Croatia (singer), Malta (dancing), Philippines (singing), Ukraine (pinist and dancing) and Canada (pianist).

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2016

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he children at the David Rose School for Special Needs were super excited to interact with Setra Oselma on Wednesday.

Oselma is the Guyana Fashion Week’s most promising designer for 2017. GFW concluded three weeks ago at the Pegasus Hotel after nine days of activities. The children were thrilled that someone who is differently able (wheelchair bound) won the competition.

From the inception, GFW adopted social causes and this year, the organisers included people living with disabilities, Trafficking In Persons and domestic violence.

Earlier in the year, the Sonia Noel Foundation

for Creative Arts conducted a fabric art course at the school and the beautiful pieces were showcased at the GFW launch during the Jubilee celebrations.

“I am so appreciative of Sonia and her team for working with the school to give the children opportunities,” Head teacher of David Rose school noted.

Last Friday, Noel and the winners of GFW Model Image visited the Sophia Drop-in Centre to motivate the children there. The children were treated to a GFW slide show and snacks while Kenny Hercules, Candacy Subrattie, Odas Baker and Lee Leyoung were encouraged to aim high and be positive about their future.

Other than interacting with students and tell-

ing them her story, Oselma conducted a make-up demonstration which truly amazed them. One of the teachers translated in sign language to facilitate the hearing impaired. Oselma is a cosmetologist who has a business in her hometown of Linden.

“This was truly an amazing experience for me and looking at how the kids and teachers responded was a great feeling,” Oselma said.

She indicated her willingness to assist the school with her expertise in the creative department.

“It is a humbling feeling to be part of a team that is adding value to people in our society and we give God thanks,” Noel, CEO of Guyana Fashion Week said.

A l t h o u g h the 24-year-old Guyanese beauty and psychology student did not make it in the top 10 in the talent competition, she is open minded and is ready to impress

the world with her beauty, charm and elegance.

Hailing from the East Coast of Demerara, Gerrard is a Radio Jockey at Guyana’s 94.1 Boom FM. She is also the co-host of “Jumpstart Morning

Show” and more so, an excellent poet and theatre actress. Guyana Times Entertainment wishes Miss Gerrald the best of luck on the international stage.

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guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2016

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otspotgy Scavenger Hunt – The Christmas Edition” was held on Sunday last with at least 25 teams participating. The scavenger hunt consisted of retrieving items such as any envelope from your postman or garbage collector wishing you a Merry Christmas; a guava (to represent the season after Christmas) and a Christmas edition Cocacola glass.

Some of the tasks that had to be completed included a male team member shaving one leg but if the team was an all-girl team, then that team was required to find a

male friend to do so.

In addition, two team members had to make Santa beards out of shaving cream or whipped cream and video themselves performing their best Santa laugh.

The fun got even more exiting with the photography segment.

Some of the photos included a picture of someone’s container with marinating garlic pork, a picture of any team member with a snow cone vendor and his cart, and a picture of someone named Rudolph holding up his ID Card.

However, in honour of pepperpot, each team had to click a photo of one team member with a cow.

This had to be taken on the day.

The hunt also included location poems.

The event was one of the best scavenger hunts in recent times and was indeed fun and exciting and those who participated are eagerly awaiting the next edition.

Hotspotgy would like to thank Windjammer International Cuisine and Comfort-Inn for providing snacks for all the participants, 704 Sports Bar, Banks DIH under their Banks Beer Brand, Pink Memo Boutique, Buddy’s Gym and Buddy’s Mei Tung Restaurant, Ultra Graphixx for all our graphic designs and more importantly, those who participated in the event.

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t is that time of the year once again and Fire Fest Production expresses gratitude to its fans that have supported them throughout the year. Whether at Clash of the Titans at the Guyana National Stadium or Berbice, or the Guyana BIG Clash on the East Coast of Demerara, the entertainment company is saying thank you.

This year, t h e Cool Boyz

Mahendra Ramkellawan

Terry G

event titled “Boxing Day Main Big Lime and International Show” will be held on December 26 at the Tuschen Community Centre ground, East Bank Essequibo.

Last year, the Leonora Stadium, on the West Coast of Demerara was packed to capacity and it is expected that this year will be no different.

The line-up for the show will see several international, regional and local artistes.

These include former International Chutney Monarch Rikki Jai; Guyanese Baboo, Terry Gajraj; Mahendra Ramkellawan; Asha G; Mark “Chiney Man” Kasim; Ivelaw “Granny Ivelaw” Campbell; Cool Boyz; and others. The event will also feature the Dax New Generation Band, Fire Fest dancers, the Fire Fest Band and others.

Granny Ivelaw The official emcee for the event is WR Reaz.

Tickets for the event cost $1500 and are available at regular ticketing locations. This is one event you do not want to miss.

Lisa Punch

A

Big Red

s the Christmas spirit continues to kick in, the National Communications Network will be hosting its Christmas Jubilee to usher in the festivities today in its Homestretch Avenue compound.

The event has grown over the years and this year will definitely be one with a difference.

This year, several highJovinski Thorne level performers are expected to rock the stage with the intention of getting everyone in the festive mood.

Those slated to perform are Lisa Punch, Gavin Mendoca, Jovinski Thorne, the National School of Dance, the National Steel Orchestra, Success Elementary Choir, Marigold Choir, Earl Bishop, Calvin Burnett, Miriam Corlette-Williams, Nrityageet dancers, Michelle “Big Red” King and the Guyana Police Force Band.

The Christmas tree lights are expected to be switched on by Minister within the Education Ministry, Nicolette Henry. Action starts at 18:30h.

friDAY, december 9, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

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omen’s rights take centre stage in the Bollywood 2016 courtroom drama, “Pink”. A retired lawyer, Deepak Sehgal, played by the iconic Amitabh Bachchan, suffering from bipolar disorder, represents three young girls in court after witnessing their troubles.

One night, after a rock concert, the girls accepted a dinner invitation from Rajvir (Angad Bedi) and two other young men. Rajvir is the nephew of a powerful politician. One of the girls, Minal Arora (Taapsee Pannu) was subsequently molested and when a report was eventually made, a female Police Officer

did not register the complaint.

A counter claim was made against the girls, labelling them as prostitutes. Using powerful contacts, Rajvir was able to have Minal charged with attempted murder with the other girls as co-accused. This pits Sehgal against the young men’s very influential families.

“Pink”, directed by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury, was specially screened for the Rajasthan Police in India so as to train them to be sensitive and sensible about women’s rights and dignity. The film was also invited for a special screening at the United Nations headquarters in New York City, USA. Amitabh Bachchan suggested that the appearance of his name in the movie credits not be the first, but to follow those of the three young ladies.

He pointed out it shows the importance of gender equality which is what the movie is about. As a result, in the opening and end credits, the three main actresses lead before Bachchan’s name. “Pink” will be aired on Sunday, December 11 at 21:00h on TGV Channel 28.

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friday, DECember 9, 2016

India fight back after “Reds” leaves the Jennings debut ton commentary box after 55 years V

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pener Keaton Jennings hit a debut century as England reached 288-5 on a fluctuating first day of the fourth Test against India in Mumbai.

The Durham left-hander, called up last week, was dropped before scoring but put on 99 with captain Alastair Cook (46) and went on to make 112.

Jennings, Moeen Ali, who made 50, Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow all fell to Ravichandran Ashwin.

India lead 2-0 in the fivematch series.

South Africa-born Jennings, 24, supported first

by Cook and then by an increasingly confident Moeen, put England in a strong position, although they were helped by defensive fields from India.

India were gifted a route back into the game when Moeen was caught trying to slog-sweep Ashwin, and 230-3 became 249-5 when Jennings edged to gully and Jonny Bairstow was caught on the sweep.

Umpire Paul Reiffel was forced to leave the field midway through the afternoon session after being struck on the back of the head by a lobbed Bhuvneshwar Kumar throw from the boundary.

The Australian rested for the remainder of the day after a scan.

Jennings punishes India for drop

A former captain of South Africa Under-19s, Jennings made a century for the England Lions in Dubai the week he was added to the senior squad to replace the injured Haseeb Hameed.

He began tentatively but his innings turned round after he edged a short ball from Umesh Yadav on nought and a diving Karun Nair failed to hold on one-handed at gully.

Two balls later he struck his first boundary to get off the mark, setting the tempo of his innings. He mixed easy singles with reverse sweeps and cover drives, looking composed even as he neared three figures.

Watched in the crowd by Hameed, who returned to India with his family after having surgery on his fractured hand, Jennings struck 12 fours on his way to a composed century.

He celebrated calmly after reaching his hundred with a reverse sweep but

Keaton Jennings celebrates becoming the 19th England player to make a debut hundred

Paul Reiffel was struck on the back of the head by a throw from Bhuvneshwar Kumar

could not hide his frustration when edging Ashwin to gully shortly after tea.

Late wickets take shine off England’s day

England’s top order struggled during the thirdTest defeat in Mohali after they won the toss on a good batting pitch and Cook and Jennings overcame some early worries here to keep England on track.

Cook’s dismissal, stumped as he moved down the wicket to Ravindra Jadeja, was uncharacteristic but showed England’s change in mind-

Scorpions in command at Sabina Parka

A

n authoritative fourth wicket partnership of 139 runs between Andre McCarthy and Brandon King help to put hosts Jamaica Scorpions in a strong position at the end of the opening day of their fourth round clash against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force at Sabina Park. After winning the toss, the home team raced to 314 all out from 78.4 overs then picked up two Red Force wickets in two balls to go to bed

SCOREBOARD Stumps - Day 1 England 1st innings AN Cook* st †Patel b Jadeja 46 KK Jennings c Pujara b Ashwin 112 JE Root c Kohli b Ashwin 21 MM Ali c Nair b Ashwin 50 JM Bairstow† c UT Yadav b Ashwin 14 25 BA Stokes not out 18 JC Buttler not out Extras (lb-1, nb-1) 2

set when it came to playing spin, and India’s slow bowlers were stunted during the afternoon session.

After Joe Root had fallen, superbly caught at slip

by Virat Kohli for 21, Moeen looked frenetic at the crease.

However, once he settled he looked in good touch, lofting Jadeja high into the crowd for six before falling on the sweep.

Bairstow top-edged a sweep to be caught at deep backward square leg, but Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler saw England to the close without further loss. (BBC Sport)

eteran cricket commentator, Joseph “Reds” Perreira has decided to finish his illustrious career as an excellent ball by ball presenter on home soil right where it began 55 memorable years ago.

It was in 1961 that “Reds” got his opportunity to do ball by ball commentary in a First Class match when a ‘second-string’ commentary team was needed for the British Guiana versus Trinidad and Tobago match in Rose Hall after the first choice presenters were needed at the more high profile match between Jamaica and Barbados was being played in Georgetown.

Perreira was sharing the microphone with Norman McLean and Claude Vieira and the rest is history.

Today, 55 years later, the native of the Pomeroon River in Essequibo begins his farewell match at Providence where Guyana Jaguars take on Barbados Pride in the West Indies Cricket Board Professional Cricket League Digicel Regional Four-Day Tournament.

“Reds” made the announcement to leave the commentary box on Thursday when he was addressing the local media at the Tower Suites which was

Total (5 wickets; 94 overs) 288 (3.06 runs per over) To bat: CR Woakes, AU Rashid, JM Anderson, JT Ball Fall of wickets 1-99 (Cook, 25.3 ov), 2-136 (Root, 38.2 ov), 3-230 (Ali, 70.2 ov), 4-230 (Jennings, 70.4 ov), 5-249 (Bairstow, 80.2 ov) Bowling : B Kumar 11-0-38-0, UT Yadav 10-2-36-0, R Ashwin 30-3-75-4, J Yadav 22-3-78-0 (nb-1), RA Jadeja 21-3-60-1

Rovman Powell played down the wrong line and was bowled much to the delight of wicketkeeper Stephen Katwaroo and Jyd Goolie

in a comfortable position.

McCarthy top scored with 82 while King playing his first match of the season got to 78 after the Scorpions leading run scorer this season, John Campbell made 33 and Test batsman Jermaine Blackwood 34 got starts but were not allowed to carry on.

The Scorpions scored quickly but were ever so often pegged back by nagging Red Force bowling.

The fast bowlers shared six wickets with Roshon Primus picking up 3-32 to lead the way while Jamaican Sheldon Cottrell

bagged 2-42. The Red Force openers were untroubled by the opening Scorpions bowlers Reynard Leveridge and Derval Green and got to 35 before right arm leg spinner, Damion Jacobs had Isaiah Rajah caught at the wicket by Devon Thomas for 9.

The night watchman, Marlon Richards was sent and was immediately sent back LBW first ball at which time stumps were called leaving opener, Kyle Hope not out on 15 and the Red Force 35/2 still trailing by 279 runs with eight wickets in hand.

Joseph “Reds” Perreira

organized by his longstanding friend, Vic Insanally.

In all, “Reds” was fortunate to cover 147 Test matches in all Test venues around the world except in Bangladesh. In his global travel, Perriera have called the game with the best in the commentary box when the best were playing at the best venues in the world.

The humble Guyanese, pointed out that the World Series of 1978 was the fiercest amount of cricket he called since the best of the best were there in Australia.

In highlighting the struggles of making it to the highest in cricket commentary, “Reds” is still unclear who recommended him to do commentary in Australia but his gut feeling told him it is the late great Tony Cozier. With Cozier, a formidable partnership was

formed and together they were the Caribbean voices for more than 30 years while covering majority of the West Indies’ better years.

The humble Guyanese said it is good to be leaving the commentary box where he will share the mic with international commentators, Guyanese Inderjeet Persaud and Barbadian Andrew Mason while calling a very important match which was described in true “Reds” manner as ‘clash of the table.’

Along the journey “Reds” encountered a number of persons and organizations that have paved the way for him and he did make special mention of them; Rafeek Khan, Hugh Cholmondeley, Jerry Richards, Wilbert Holder, GBS, CBU and JBC were just a few. However, the one friend he is most fond of is Tony Cozier whom he was closest to until May this year when he lost his friend.

“Reds” whom always have advise to share was quick to share some points to improve the quality of commentary while sharing some ideas of national unity and interest.

The beautiful and rewarding journey now comes to an end but the memories will forever remain.

Regal bowled with a lot of intent in their semifinal game last Sunday at DCC

R

egal All-Stars have marched into another softball final and will now meet Speedboat for another championship after both teams progressed to the finals of the Regal Sport Softball Tournament after their semifinal matches on Sunday at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground Queenstown.

Speedboat defeated Ariel All-Stars to set up the showdown against the consistent Regal All-Stars who brushed aside Herstelling.

Regal All-Stars took first knock, hammering 157 for the loss of seven in 15 overs. Navindra Singh (27), Ravindra Ramnath (29) and Safraz Esau (32) were the backbone of the innings getting good starts but could not carry on to bigger innings.

However, Dyram Persaud and Rickey Sargent did well to reduce the damage but were unable to contain the explosive batting of Regal.

Dyram’s three overs went for 23 runs while claiming three wickets. Similarly, Sargent returned two wickets for 13 runs from his three overs.

In reply, Herstelling could not find their form, having crumbled to 143 all out. Reid tried to hold the innings together in the run chase but only managed 22 while Uniss Yusuf top scored with a quick fire 34 which was not enough to help Herstelling chase down the mammoth total. Rohit Dutchin starred with the ball collecting 3-8 from his three overs at the same time as Sachin Singh bagged 3-4 in his three overs.

The last time these two teams met in a final Speedboat won at the Guyana Softball Cup six while in a prior meeting Regal won making this the clash of the giants in the end of year showdown even more dicey.

The final begins at 14:30 at DCC with musical entertainment from the Caribbean Hotshots band and commentary from the exciting John Ramsingh and Inderjeet Persaud.

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21 Hero CPL to be played in August-September 2017 F sports

ans home and away have grown accustomed to ‘the biggest party in sport’ starting their summer off with the highest form of world class T20 cricket in June – July.

However, the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) games are likely to be shifted to the August-September period in 2017.

This revelation was made by Pete Russell, Chief Operations Officer (COO) of Hero Caribbean Premier League as he was addressing journalists at the Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago on Thursday.

The COO explained that “the last tournament was exciting so we want more of that obviously and we are going to start the tournament a bit later this year.”

The other dynamics of the tournament remain the same and will still have the same number of teams; the Guyana Amazon Warriors, Trinbago Knight Riders, Jamaica Tallawahs, Barbados Trident, St. Lucia Zouks and St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots and the same number of matches will be played, 34.

“It will start at the beginning of August and run

Pete Russell

through to the first week in September.” Russell stated.

Previously, dates for the tournament were July 29 to August 26 in 2013; July 5 to August 10 in 2014; June 21 to July 26 in 2015 and June 29 and August 7 this year.

The tournament includes six franchises with 15 contracted players each, including a maximum of five international players and four players under the age of 23.

Each team has one local and one international franchise player.

Meanwhile, as the dates for the tournament is now shifted, Russell went on to say that as part of the “jigsaw puzzle” there is still the

whole issue of where and when the matches will be played as well as where the finals will be hosted.

The CPL which is broadcast to over 40 countries across the world including every continent, saw Trinidad and Tobago’s Queens Park Oval and St. Kitts and Nevis’s Warner Park Stadium in Basseterre hosting the finals twice each.

Guyana Amazon Warriors have made it to three finals. Jamaica Tallawahs are the defending champions with two titles to their name while Trinbago Knight Riders and Barbados Trident have each won it once.

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ith just two days to go before bowl off in the East Coast Jubilee Fiesta cricket competition, teams are signaling their intentions early for the contest at the Better Hope Community Centre ground on Sunday. Seasoned male teams Herstelling Rangers, Wellman, Mahaica Raiders and Success Warriors are already registered while the female category should be graced by the presence of 4-R Lioness, Trophy Stall Angels, Blue Divas and Mike’s Wellwoman.

The softball cricket action will be the highlight of day two of the weekend of music and sport organized

by the B.E.S.T. Family Entertainment along with Craby and the Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA).

With more than $300,000 in cash and trophies at stake the interest is high for the softball extravaganza.

The male winners will pocket $150,000 and the win-

ning trophy with $75,000 going to the losing finalist.

The female champion team will receive $50,000 and a trophy with $25,000 going to the runner-up team.

Interested teams must contact Wayne Jones on 685-6908 or 650-1790 for registration and rules of the competition. All male teams will pay an entrance fee of $15,000 while the female teams will pay $5,000.

After the cricket finals the organizers have a massive closing party planned with performances from Kwesi ‘Ace” Edmondson and Poonam Singh and music by some of the country’s top music sound systems.

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friday, december 9, 2016

T

he National Stadium, Providence over the next four days/nights will be homage to what is expected to be an enthralling clash of the table between leaders Guyana Jaguars and the visiting Barbados Pride in round four of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Professional Cricket League (PCL) Digicel Regional 4-Day Tournament.

Just 0.2 points separates the arch rivals in the six-team championship with Jaguars having 33.6 points closely followed by the Pride on 33.4 while Leeward Islands Hurricanes are on 29.4, then Jamaica Scorpions 28.6, Trinidad & Tobago Red Force 27 and Windward Islands Volcanoes 17.6.

Added the array of talent on show, the match will be historic significance since it will be the first day/night 4-day match being played at Providence.

The champions certainly have not roared this season as they did over the last two years as they succumb to their first loss after an unbeaten run of 19 matches when they lost to Leeward Islands Hurricanes this year by virtue of a record break-

WICB/PCL Digicel Regional 4-Day Tournament 2016-17...

ing run-chase.

The reason for the tameness this season could be as a result of in-different batting as none of the batsmen have been able to convert some good starts to score a century, in fact the highest score is 91 which was made by veteran Shivnarine Chanderpaul.

The batting so far has been led by Test player Rajendra Chandrika, who is the leading run-getter with 224 runs followed by Chanderpaul with 200 runs.

Talented Shimron Hetymer along with all-rounders Christopher Barnwell and Raymon Reifer have chipped

Left-arm spinners Veerasammy Permaul and Gudakesh Motie will once again carry the work load for the Jaguars

New Era Entertainment/ Cell Smart Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal tournament…

Empire, Plantain & Cheese in action tonight

E

xcitement is mounting as the 3rd annual New Era Entertainment Cell Smart Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal tournament continues with four competitive games at the McKenzie Sports Club hard court, Linden tonight.

Following on the heals of Monday’s gripping battles, fans can already predict some high scoring matches with the record the tournament is known for. It will be the first time Customs will take to the court for the 40 minute duel but will enter the tournament facing a dominant Spikeland team. Spikeland, who has had a dream start to their competition with Keiron Cammorn and Andre Chester spearheading their attack, will be a handful to deal with.

Team Empire who is fresh off a 10-3 hammering of Mile Spot will be in good shape as they head into their clash with MSC Lions in the second match of the night. While teenage sensation, Jermain Masson was the star for Empire with four goals, he is well supported by the likes of Curt Johnson and Kevin Beaton who will be heading their line up while Magic Star will play Chelsea. Meanwhile, crowd favourites, Plantain and Cheese will also be in action when they come up against the winner of the Custom/ Spikeland clash.

The first prize is $400,000

in with useful scores but have not kicked on.

The bowling department which has been the standout unit, will once again be led by spin-twins Veerasammy Permaul and Gudakesh Motie along with ample support from fast bowler Keon Joseph. Permaul has 14 wickets thus far while Motie and Joseph have 11 respectively.

In the opposition’s ranks, Test vice-captain Kraigg Brathwaite is one five West Indies players just back from the Tri-Nation Oneday International series in Zimbabwe that have been named in the squad.

The others are batsman Jonathan Carter, wicketkeeper/batsmen Shai Hope and Shane Dowrich and offspinning all-rounder Ashley Nurse.

Skipper Brathwaite in

Under close watch! Skipper Kraigg Brathwaite plays close attention to the pink pall during nets on Thursday

speaking to this publication on Thursday said that “the guys are very excited; it is a key clash for us so we want come out on top.”

He added, “The key is to get 20 wickets, once the batsmen do the job we need to take the wickets because that is only way we can win the game.”

Commenting on playing with the pink ball, the dogged right-hander said “playing with the kookaburra ball in Test matches it gets older fast but we are using Duke ball so we will have to see how it plays, we have see how the ball reacts at night.”

The Bajans have looked good this season, having not loss any of their games winning once and drawing the other two. Their batting was primarily led by stylish left-hander Anthony Alleyne who is leading the tourna-

ment’s batting charts with 443 runs and has a high score of 186 which was made against the Trinidad and Tobago red Force.

The pink-ball has known to produce result oriented matches, as it gives bowlers the edge, especially under lights. Some players have voiced concerns over the visibility of the ball but the condition of the ball will be tested on a usually abrasive Providence wicket.

Both teams suffered setbacks in the previous round when it looked like they could have been in pole position for victory. Their chances were badly affected by rain which led to draws in all of the matches during the round.

The Jaguars – on home soil – are always a challenging prospect for visiting teams, but the Pride have been one of the few that can

look past conditions and put their hosts on the back-foot.

The two teams have met five times at this venue since it has become the main arena for major regional and international matches in the country and the Pride have equipped themselves well with two wins, including one of the narrowest in the history of the league two seasons back. These matches between the two sides for the past years usually determines the winners at the end of the championship and the home-side, who are hunting for an unprecedented threepeat, will need a good showing in this match.

Jaguars squad reads: Rajendra Chandrika, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Shimron Hetmyer, Leon Johnson (Captain), Vishaul Singh (Vice Captain), Shivnarine Chanderpaul, R a y m o n R e i f e r , Anthony Bramble, VeerasammyPermaul, Eon Hooper, GudakeshMotie, Keon Joseph and Christopher Barnwell.

Coach is Esuan Crandon, the Assistant Coach/Manager is Rayon Griffith, and the Physio is Beverley Nelson.

Pride squad: Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Anthony Alleyne, Shamarh Brooks, Jonathan Carter, Roston Chase, Shane Dowrich, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Ashley Nurse, Omar Phillips, Kemar Roach, Kevin Stoute and Jomel Warrican.

Regal Sport Softball Competition…

Thomas, Harper set up Regal Masters’ crushing win ― Wellman Masters beat Ariel Masters

T Jermain Masson will be aiming to add to his tally and press on his position to win the best young player award

along with trophies and replicas, up by $100,000 from last year. The second placed team will claim $150,000 and trophy, third $75,000 and trophy and fourth place will collect a trophy. Other prizes are on offer for the MVP, Best goalkeeper, most goals and Best young player.

The competition runs today and continues on December 10, 17, 23 and 26 the grand finale. The organisers are promising an exciting and entertaining tournament with side attractions and are encouraging all to come out and support as the team put their best on the court to claim the prize money on offer.

he masters’ finalists in the Regal Sport Softball competition were decided on Sunday with Regal Masters and Wellman Masters defeating Albion Masters and Ariel Masters respectively on Sunday at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground, Queenstown.

In the first semi final of the masters category Ariel XI suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of Wellman Masters.

Batting first, Ariel Masters were bowled out for a below par score of 142 in the 19th over.

Richard. Persaud was first to go only contributing 10 while his opening partner Talesh Ramoutar soon followed for 17 with the score on 37-2.

Peter Persaud tried to rebuild the innings and to hold the middle order together but saw D. Mohabir (8) and Mohamed Rafeek (7) giving away their wickets only having Jaikarran (13) and Dennis Mangru (16) adding to his 14 to help Ariel stagger to put up a challenging score. However, they were nicely assisted by a mammoth 35 extras which propelled them past the 140 mark.

Lester Thom was the pick of the Wellman bowling with three

Wellman Masters celebrate the dismissal of Dennis Mangru stumped off Motilall Chumendatt

wickets for 29 runs from his four overs. He was well supported

by Motilall Chumendatt and Wayne Jones who picked up two wickets a piece for 32 and 23 runs respectively.

In reply, Wellman mowed down the target with 23 balls to spare. Jones returned to take Wellman home, this time with the bat, blasting his way to 52.

The tall left-handed batsman was well supported by the top order. Latchman Kallicharran and Greg deFranca opened the batting and managed to score 31 and 13 respectively while Lloyd Rooplall contributed with 13 of his own batting one-

down. Nandram Samlall was also amongst the runs with 24.

Ramoutar, Mohabir and Singh collected one wicket a piece as the Wellman Masters registered a seven wicket victory. Meanwhile, Regal Masters advanced after they disposed of Albion Masters in their semifinal. Albion Masters batted first and posted 179 after being bowled out in the 20th over. Imran Hussain tried valiantly smashing three sixes on his way to 45 while Anil Beharry supported with 22.

Mahendra Hardyal was the pick of the bowlers with three wickets for 32 runs from his

four overs while David Harper gathered 16-2.

Regal Masters then muscled their way to 182/5 from 16.2 overs. Raymond Harper and Eric Thomas took control of the match with a half century each.

Harper remained not out on 51 to see his side home after hitting three sixes while Thomas smacked eight sixes on his way to a top score of 66. John Sumair and Veerapen Moonsammy were the best bowlers from the Berbice team with figures of 2-20 and 1-38 respectively.

The Masters final will begin the day’s activities on Sunday from 10:30h.

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, december 9, 2016

Schools’ rugby festival begins today Teshawn Gordon, a future star in the making

23

GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power National Under-17 League…

By Akeem Greene

N

apollen Hill said “Opportunity often comes disguised in the form of misfortune, or temporary defeat” and young footballer Teshawn Gordon could be a prime example of being given chance showcase his worth on field despite his team suffered mixed fortunes in the recently concluded East Demerara leg of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Players from St. John’s College undergoing drills under the watchful eyes of Theodore Henry NAMILCO Thunderbolt at the Parade ground on Thursday Flour Power National udding rugby play- to offer their expertise and Under-17 League. ers from Primary also scout for players.

Before the curtains came The vice-president who and Secondary down on the highly competschools across Georgetown himself is a player says itive tournament Gordon are expected to take to the that they have target the had set his sights on beNational Park Rugby field school system in a bid to ing the leading goal scorer but fell just short of the today for the schools rugby ensure that rugby conmark to finish in second tinues to progress festival. place with nine goals to For primary schools, The festival is a move by help his team, Bachelor’s the Guyana Rugby Football St. Agnes and St. Angela’s Adventure/Paradise Sports Union (GRFU) to broaden have been invited while for Club to third place on the fiits nucleus of players and ac- the older students, Queen’s nal points tally. cording to Vice- President of College, St. John’s College, The 16-year old in an inthe union, Joshua Griffith it St. George’s High School, terview with this publicawill be a non-contact form of Tucville Secondary, North tion explained that he felt Secondary, the sport called “Tag Rugby” Ruimveldt extremely proud of his exwhich is safer and may be Coven Garden, Richard ploits and hoped that he can and North played by any age group of Ishmael continue on this path to don Georgetown Secondary boys and girls. national colors.

Griffith also explained School among some “It’s a good tournament for the under-17s its realthat developmental officers others to be conly good opportunity for us and players will be on sight firmed. showcase our talents; I feel

B

Nimble feet and hunger to score goals could be the combination to help take young Gordon to the summit

very good and I think I have improved a lot in terms of my style, my passing, dribbling, and even scoring was good,” the 16 year-old stated.

The Buxton Secondary School student who was called to National Under-17 trials earlier this year says that his short term goal is play his trade for one on the top city sides in the Elite League which over time should allow him to catapult into the National team.

The attacking mid-fielder who idolizes Argentine star Lionel Messi posited that his club is need of a coach since self training will

UDFA/GT Beer Christmas Football Championship

WICB/PCL Digicel Regional 4-Day Tournament 2016-17...

Clash against Pride is “important to win” ― Reifer

By Akeem Greene

G

uyana Jaguars allrounder Raymon Reifer has viewed the crucial match beginning today against the Barbados Pride as one which is “important to win” since it can place the team in a more comfortable position on the points table in the 2016/2017 West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Professional Cricket League (PCL) Digicel Regional 4-day competition.

Jaguars (33.6) currently hold a slim 0.2 lead over the second-placed Pride (33.4) and will hope that playing on home turf will give them the opportunity to extend that in a bid to cop an unprecedented three-peat in titles.

Speaking to Guyana Times Sport on Wednesday, the 25 year-old said, “It is an important game for us, every game is for us and a win in this game can help separate us and give a bit of comfort going into the rest of the games throughout the season.”

The last time these two teams met in February at the Kensington Oval, it end-

The all-rounder had an excellent showing with the pink ball in the Jaguars previous match and will hoping to lead the Jaguars to a crucial victory

ed in a thrilling draw with the left-handed batsmen himself playing a vital role, by making a resilient 19 not out from 116 balls to deny the Bajans in what looked to be a certain victory.

Pride’s batting line-up boast the likes of several current and former Test players especially that of captain Kraigg Brathwaite but the left-arm seamer says that his team simply needs

to stick to the basics.

“We can’t really worry about who they have in their team or what they do, we just have to go and do what we can do and hit our areas consistently”, the player stated.

In the previous day/night match against Windward Islands Volcanoes in St. Lucia the Barbados-born bowler picked up 6-82 in the first innings, posited that

the ball does not operate drastically different from the red-ball.

“To me the pink ball plays similar to the white ball, it seams more than it swings but a bit later you get a little reverse swing; It is a little difficult to pick up with the black sight screen since the ball is pink which is pretty close to red but we have to work with that,” Reifer said.

The Barbadian is eager to face his home-team revealing that “I enjoy the challenge of playing against my home team, I hope we beat them again to come away with bragging rights.”

The player who has been a part of the Jaguars’ unit for the last three seasons has scored 164 runs and taken nine wickets to date says that he does not have any structured plans for the season since he just wants to enjoy his cricket and produce his best when on the field.

Play in the hugely expected match gets on the way at 15:00h using the pink ball at Providence. Admission is free.

not be enough to help him reach greater heights.

He explained “the club doesn’t have a coach but I usually go run and do cone work and knock a scrubby after but that is not enough if I want to go further.”

The footballer who came through the ranks of under-13 and under-15 is fortunate to have his father, Julian Stewart, a former club player as a support base in his promising career.

Looking ahead to the next season of the league, the predominantly rightfooted player is hoping that he can help his team bring more success.

At the end of nine matches in the 10-team league, Buxton United topped the standings with 25 points just edging Mahaica Determinators who finished on 23 points.

Bachelor’s Adventure/ Paradise Sports Club secured third with 16 points ahead of BV/Triumph United (15 points) and Golden Stars (13 points).

Plaisance Panthers (11 points), Ann’s Grove United (8 points), Victoria Kings (7 points) along with Buxton Stars and Buxton Youth Developers who both ended on four points, rounded-off the standings.

Hi Stars tame Panthers, Eagles & Rockers play to stalemate

J

ames Trotman overlapped well to gain a brace for West Watooka’s Hi Stars who eased past Amelia’s Ward Panthers 3-1 but the clash between Eagles United and Net rockers was undecided as that ended 0-0 when the GT Beer Christmas football championship continued at the Mackenzie Sports club ground on Wednesday night.

Trotman was on target when he scored in the 7th minute for Hi stars and by the 37th minute he had the fortune of converting from the penalty spot after his fellow player was brought down heading goal-wards.

The first half ended with the Stars flying at 2-0 lead, and soon it was 3-0 five minutes after the break when Michael Peters was there to slot home goal number three in the 50th minute.

With the Stars sailing towards a comfortable victory their lapse on defence saw the Panthers pull one back after a player

was brought down by the Stars defender. The resultant penalty taken by Keshawn Dey was able to make i t a 3-1 game which remained for the starts when the final whistle came.

The second game did not produce any goals despite the efforts of both teams w h e r e a few changes did not b r i n g about the

expected goals. While the veteran Tony Adams was his usual busy self he failed to score while the youngster Shane Luckie and experienced Denzil Pryce also were unable to rock the net. For the Eagles side the best effort was from Allan Halley who was not penetrative enough in the end.

friday, december 9, 2016

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

guyanatimesgy.com

WICB/PCL Digicel Regional 4-Day Tournament 2016-17...

Jaguars, Pride rumble at Providence in day/night affair Pg 22

Final Prep! Barbados Pride players undergo a net session at Providence on Thursday

Schools’ rugby festival begins today

Pg 23

Practice makes perfect! Students of St John's College were busy fine tuning preparation at the Parade ground on Thursday

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