Guyana Times Daily - February 12, 2015

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Issue No. 2402

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Thursday, February 12, 2015

NIS still to verify 1 million plus contributions Page 9

All set for APNU’s massive campaign launch

PRICE

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

New youth party to contest P7 election – vows to end politics of allegation, race

Page 6

GDF Women Corps P12 celebrates 48th anniversary

... surprise new candidates to be unveiled Leader of APNU David Granger greets a family picnicking at the National Park during a recent walkabout

Speaker questions delay in dissolution of Parliament Page 3

Water level critically low in Abary Conservancy Page 9

4 held for Essequibo robbery P16 Speaker P17 flays lapse in set-up of other rights bodies

2 news

thursday, february 12, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Patricia Sanasie’s execution...

Brother releases recording of alleged contract killer and sister V

ishnu Persaud, brother of the late Patricia Persaud-Sanasie who was executed on January 12 at her Lot 129 Atlantic Gardens' home, has released a recording of an ex-Police officer who claimed that he was contracted by a close family member to kill the now dead woman.

In the recording, the male on the other end of the line claimed that he was contracted by a close family member to kill the woman.

He claimed that he made the decision to alert her as a way of getting back at the family member over a wrong business deal. During the telephone conversation, she asked the alleged hit man to meet with her. During the

The couple in happier times

meeting he was arrested by the Police, held for 72 hours but released because of the lack of evidence.

The Police also arrested the family member who was released shortly after.

The brother also stated that another woman who was also in the conspiracy to kill his sister was arrested and released. The woman reportedly admitted to the Police that she was a part of the plan but changed her story after the businesswoman was killed.

However, Persaud who convened a special press conference at the Princess Hotel stated that his sister knew that she was going to be killed and more so, her execution would have been

planned by her family member.

He explained that on the day his sister was executed, the family member called the woman's youngest daughter in the United States of America enquiring about her whereabouts.

With a copy of the phone records, he confirmed that the call was made at 17:48h local time and his sister was executed at 18:05h.

In tears, the man stated that the target was his sister and not the daughter who was driving the car.

After the shooting, the the family member reportedly claimed that he was afraid to travel to Guyana since he believed that the woman’s family wanted to harm him and held him accountable for her death.

Nevertheless, Guyana Times was told that he attempted to attend the fu-

Persaud is now fearful for his life but decided to travel to Guyana to ensure that justice is served.

The brother added that that he has met with the Commissioner of Police and other senior ranks of the Guyana Police Force and handed over documents and recordings.

Guyana Times understands that the Police are confident that they have the alleged killer after he matched the description given by the woman’s daughter who witnessed the shooting.

The man was arrested and was subsequently released but was asked to report to the CID headquarters on a regular basis.

A senior Police rank stated that recordings and other documents were handed over to them and are being presently analysed. The rank stated that the person

Brother of the dead woman, Vishnu Persaud, holding the recording in his hands at the Princess Hotel on Wednesday

neral in the United States of America but was not allowed in the private viewing.

who allegedly telephoned the woman prior to her death was arrested but has denied making the call.

The voice authentication was not facilitated to determine if the voices were those of the now dead businesswoman or the alleged hit man, the Police source added. He nevertheless, stated that from all indication and based on investigations, the family member might be required to travel to Guyana to be questioned.

Meanwhile, the eldest daughter of the dead woman who witnessed the incident is hospitalized as she is still traumatised and depressed. Patricia Senasie, 45 was killed execution style on January 12 last at her home in Atlantic Gardens, East Coast Demerara.

She was shot five times as she was about to open the gate to her yard by the gunman who then made good his escape in a waiting vehicle.

3 Speaker questions delay in dissolution of Parliament S news

thursday, february 12, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, February 12 – 10:30h-12:00h and Friday, February 13 – 12:00h-13:30h The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, February 12 – 09:40h-11:10h and February 13 – 11:05h-12:35h

FERRY SCHEDULE Ferries will be departing the Parika and Supenaam stelling at 06:00h and 14:00h.

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery showers are expected to give way to heavy rain showers in the morning, while sunny intervals can be expected in the afternoon.

Partly cloudy conditions are expected in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees to 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly between 4.91 metres and 5.36 metres per second.

High Tide: 10:01h and 22:44h reaching maximum heights of 2.30 metres and 2.20 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 03:30h and 16:09h reaching minimum heights of 0.97 metre and 0.92 metre respectively.

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peaker of the National Assembly Raphael Trotman has questioned the objective of President Donald Ramotar’s refusal to dissolve Parliament after its prorogation late last year. Trotman noted that while there are no legal constraints, it has been the convention for three clear months of campaigning to be made available following the Parliament’s dissolution.

According to Trotman, Article 61 of the Constitution specifies that elections be held “within” three months of the dissolution of Parliament.

This publication reported on Wednesday that President Donald Ramotar is expected to dissolve Parliament by February 28. Trotman acknowledged that there “may very well be a six week sprint” to elections, while outlining that some other Caribbean countries have had just over a month. “It is not uncommon,” he related.

Attorney General (AG) and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall had explained that the Head of State can dissolve Parliament any date after February 12 this year. He argued that the Constitution requires that Parliament “must be dissolved within three months” of the date announced for elections.

Nandlall explained that legislation also adumbrates another requirement which states that political parties must present their lists of candidates some 32 days prior to the planned date for elections to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

The Attorney General said if one counts backwards and discounts the 32 days which must be available for the political parties to submit their lists, then the President can chose to dissolve Parliament any date before this time period expires. Thirty-two days before May 11 would be April 9.

Addressing concerns of the abuse of state resources for political campaigning, Trotman explained that this is one of the negative aspects of the Constitution, as a prorogued Parliament leaves the Government with a “watch dog”. “There is no oversight,

Speaker of the National Assembly Raphael Trotman

scrutiny or checks and balances and that is cause for concern,” he told Guyana Times.

President Ramotar on November 10, 2014, issued a proclamation proroguing the National Assembly just before the Alliance For Change (AFC) moved a NoConfidence Motion against his Administration.

The Head of State insisted that the move was intended to ensure that development is not curtailed at the hands of the Opposition and the parties could engage in meaningful talks. But after Parliament’s prorogation, the parliamentary political parties say they were interested in any such engagement.

Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon had several weeks ago said that President Donald Ramotar intends to

dissolve Parliament during the first week of February in keeping with Guyana’s constitutional requirements.

Dr Luncheon had reiterated what he felt was a known fact – that Parliament has to be dissolved on or before three months prior to Election Day. This means, Dr Luncheon said, that Parliament will be dissolved on either February 8 or 9. “Three months counting backwards from May provides the drop dead date for dissolution. So three months from the date you arrive at would take you back to when polling takes places,” Dr Luncheon explained.

Since his announcement that Guyanese will head to the polls on May 11, there has been criticism of Ramotar’s decision to not dissolve the National Assembly immediately after, or on the same day as he announced the date for General and Regional Elections.

The Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) had said that the non-dissolution of Parliament widened the gap on any possible agreement by the National Assembly on disapproved major projects like the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Project.

The human rights body had also called on the President to either dissolve Parliament at the earliest opportunity or adjust the election date to conform to the constitutional provision of three months. Leader of the AFC Khemraj Ramjattan had stated that for the elections date to be taken seriously, the President must first dis-

solve Parliament on or before February 10, exactly three months prior to the date.

The President had at that time, responded to the criticisms levelled against him over the dissolution of Parliament, informing that he would dissolve the legislative body when it was constitutionally due. The Head of State also signed the proclamation order on January 27, declaring May 11 as the date for General and Regional elections in Guyana. The President also emphasised that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), will base its campaign on its track record of development, “even though the last three years were very constrictive because of the fact that the joint Opposition got a one-seat majority in Parliament, I’m still very proud of what we were able to achieve in the circumstances,” President Ramotar stated. He added that he was also proud of the PPP/C’s record in office, particularly since the party has transformed the country, so I think I’m running on solid ground”.

With regard to the political Opposition, President Ramotar said he was not certain about what they wanted, “because sometimes they want elections, then when you call elections, they don’t want elections, but they have to face the music anyhow.

We all have to face it”. The President will be leading his party’s campaign as it seeks another term in office in an effort to continue Guyana’s developmental progress.

4

guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, february 12, 2015

Views Editor: Nigel Williams Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134 Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Programme, not leader I

f their earlier announcements are to be believed, by the end of this month, the country will know whether A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance for Change (AFC) have, or have not, entered into a coalition to contest the May 2015 General and Regional Elections.

For most of Guyana’s modern political history, coalitions of one form or another have been touted as the “solution” to our intractable political contradictions and some have attempted to justify the present efforts within this context.

But most interestingly, contrary to their protestations, the Opposition parties have initiated their talks for a much more cynical reason: they simply want to oust the incumbent People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) from office, and have said so explicitly in their more unguarded moments.

Under the present constitutional arrangements, to capture the Executive, a party simply needs to capture the largest number of votes amongst the parties contesting the election. And the Constitution also prevents the formation of a coalition after elections to replace the elected Executive.

Thus as occurred in 2011, a party such as the PPP/C could secure less than an absolute majority of seats in Parliament, but still control Government. APNU and AFC could utilise their majority in the Assembly to harass Government, but their only direct exercise of power was to insist on a “NoConfidence” Vote that could precipitate new elections to oust the PPP/C. And this is what has occurred behind all the bobbing and weaving of the Opposition.

Against such a background, it surprised no one that the negotiations have been totally consumed with tactical rather than strategic issues. If, for instance, the Opposition were serious about having Guyana move beyond the old racial/ethnic squabbles that have tied Guyana down since the independence era, they would not insist on pandering to the same ethnic affinities that caused the problem.

It was more than ironic that it was the party that was supposedly formed to negate the racial problematic could phrase what they consider to be the central issue so blatantly: they can secure enough “Indian” votes in Berbice to deliver an absolute majority to the APNU so they should be awarded the Presidency if the ensuing coalition were to win the elections.

What this formulation has done is to stimulate an extensive debate in our country as to “why should African Guyanese step aside for an “Indian” once again.

As a consequence, the electorate are being forced to define themselves solely in racial terms, whether they like it or not, because the two parties are defining the choice in leadership totally in ethnic terms. This is a retrogressive step that should be condemned.

In our estimation, any talks on coalition building should rather centre on a programme of activity over the next five years that the parties can agree to. In this way the electorate can hone in on what would be in store for them as individual Guyanese citizens, rather than as members of an ethnic group.

But we doubt that the Opposition will be willing to go this route, and in fact it is because of this reality that they have insisted that the negotiations be conducted in secret.

They are embarrassed that they will be exposed for being the selfish, ambitious politicians they are.

Just as importantly, however, is that any discussion of programmes will demonstrate that they would have to follow the development plan that has been successfully executed for the last two decades, which has made Guyana surpass the regional growth rates in the last five years.

Talking about the need for developing cheap energy sources, broadening our skills in the ICT area, and continuing the diversification of agriculture, while consolidating sugar and expanding rice, etc will simply expose the fact that, from a programmatic standpoint, there is nothing new that can be brought to the table.

If there are to be coalitions, then all should come together on a common plan.

Visitors to the newly-opened Petting Zoo get up close and personal with animals (Carl Croker photo)

The process of developing a National Youth Policy started in 1993 Dear Editor, Please allow me to respond to a letter written by Desmond Morian, who is a well-known PPP/C organizer. His letter reflects gross misinformation by his party and Government.

Mr Morian in closing his letter stated that “…there is a well-documented National Youth Policy approved by the National Assembly”.

This does not only demonstrate the ignorance within the rank and file of the PPP/C, as it relates to youth development, but it clearly shows that party members and supporters are far removed from the reality of this country especially young people.

Permit me to outline for Mr Morian and for the benefit of young people, the failed and sordid history of the development of a National Youth Policy by the PPP/C Administration over the last 22 years.

A former Minister, in response to a letter of mine in the Stabroek News, headlined “No Ministry of Youth representative at the consultation for the formation of a National Youth Council”, stated that “in January 1993, the Ministry (of Labour, Human Services and Social Security, which had a Department of Youth Affairs), with the support of the Commonwealth Youth Programme, contracted Berkley Stewart… to make a study and carry out consultations with a view of formulating a National Youth Policy.

“Out of this process a framework for the policy was developed – ‘National Youth Policy Framework’.”

The former Minister further stated that “in 1995, the Government of Guyana Youth Policy, which prioritized five areas namely, reorganizing the youth department, establishing a youth commission, and employment, award and service schemes, was laid in Parliament”.

The former Minister would have been foolhardy in his response to my letter to forget to mention that the policy was approved.

The process of developing a National Youth Policy started in 1993 and by 1997 this first attempt failed, as it was never laid in Parliament, because there were disagreements among the four political parties at the time - PPP/C, PNC, WPA and TUF. However, a Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sports was created after the 1997 elections.

In 2006, according to the Commonwealth Secretariat website, in an article dated October 24, 2006, plans were revealed to help strengthen Guyana’s Youth Development Strategy, including the formulation of a Strategic Youth Development Plan, in addition to a review of the National Youth Policy”.

To date, neither of these three documents can be located on the website of the Ministry of Youth.

In 2007, the second attempt was made to draft a National Youth Policy. This time Stabroek News, in an article dated January 31, 2007, wrote about National Youth Policy Consultations in phase two, with support from the Young American Business Trust, which was

contracted by the InterAmerican Development Bank.

This bore no fruit even though an Australian consultant was hired and millions spent on this process.

In 2009, according to an article on the Ministry of Youth website, “attention will be directed to the reworking/formulation of the National Youth Policy and Action Plan through extended consultations that began in Georgetown last year in various parts of Guyana”.

Two years later, the National Youth Policy was on the front burner again. In 2011, according to the Guyana Chronicle, in an article dated July 4, 2011, titled, “Guyana’s National Youth Policy to be finalized before year end”, it posited that the “Guyana’s National Youth Policy is expected to be finalized before the end of this year… Ministry has sought assistance of the UNDP”.

Millions more were spent and nothing came out of this third process.

In 2013, according to Guyana Times in an article dated October 27, 2013, titled, “National Youth Policy in the making”, the Ministry of Youth advised that “the consultant advising the process is aiming to complete the policy by year end”.

This being the fourth process after 21 years was now being funded by the Commonwealth Youth Programme and UNICEF with support from other agencies.

In 2014, according to the Guyana Chronicle, in an article dated February 21, 2014, titled, “Stakeholders

in more consultations on National Youth Policy”, it was stated that while there was a national deadline, no deadline was attached to when it must be completed and the Ministry had plans to have another round of consultations to facilitate more comments and reviews from young people.

Clearly Government and the rest of the PPP/C cabal have no interest in young people.

While the Opposition admits they have no plan on how the party, if elected, will deal with suicide, they must be lauded for honesty unlike the Government and the party in power.

I applaud the Opposition for their honesty, however.

They should have gone further to state that a suicide epidemic of our magnitude requires careful planning and consultations with every agency and stakeholder.

Now I will ask that Mr Morian deliver to the young people of Guyana the approved National Youth Policy he speaks of, because clearly he either doesn’t read the local press or he is suffers from amnesia, which has resulted in total memory loss from 1992 to 2014.

After five elections, the PPP/C Administration has failed young people in developing a National Youth Policy which has Parliament’s support.

I would like to advise Mr Morian to consult with his Government so that he can be better informed about this national disgrace.

Mark Ross

guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, february 12, 2015

5

Sport Minister needs to explain Prevent unlicensed persons AG’s role in DCB injunction from having access to Dear Editor, It is with utter amazement and astonishment that I read an article in the Guyana Times relating to the holding of elections for the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), quoting several statements from the Minister of Sport, Dr Frank Anthony.

I will reserve my comments on his interpretation of his signature legislation, the Guyana Cricket Administration Act, as we are all aware of the numerous flaws and deficiencies within the Act. However, my major concern is with a particular comment that he made regarding the state of affairs

concerning the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) .

In response to a direct question about the DCB, Dr Anthony stated, and I quote, “There is an injunction against those persons holding themselves out as Executives of the Board and that is being dealt with by the Attorney General's Office”.

This is quite a revealing statement by the Minister and we certainly hope that he would elaborate on this statement, as surely we are not aware that the Attorney General's Office or the Attorney General is representing any of the parties in any of the DCB legal matters.

Is the Minister insinuating that the Attorney General's Office is making representations or exerting any level of influence or control over the judiciary so much so that Dr Anthony can make such bold statements regarding when elections for the DCB and the GCB will or can be held?

I implore the Minister of Sport to explain this statement in its entirety as there has been much speculation and suspicion regarding the timing of several legal hearings, adjournments, decisions and now this bold statement. Was it a slip or was it intentional?

Raj Singh

vehicle keys

Dear Editor, Three fatal accidents occurred recently on our roadways, which investigations found to have been caused by speeding and tiredness.

In one case, the accident resulted from an unlicensed 15-year-old reportedly taking a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent and speeding along the roadway.

In the other two instances referred to, the drivers were ‘overworked’ and drove the vehicles while in a tired state of mind which caused them to lose control of the vehicles with the resulting ac-

cidents.

The Guyana Police Force Traffic Department is urging that owners of motor vehicles make every effort to try and prevent unlicensed persons from having access to the keys of their vehicles; and at the same time is calling on motorists, as far as practicable, not to continue driving a motor vehicle once they recognise that they are in a tired state.

The Traffic Department is continuing to work assiduously to prevent vehicular accidents, especially those resulting in the loss of life.

During the period February 2 to 08, a num-

ber of cases have been made against motorists for breaching the traffic laws.

These include: speeding (662), driving under the influence (27), breach of condition of Road Service Licence (31), careless driving (11), dangerous driving (18), failure to wear safety helmet (10), failure to wear seat belt (52), and prohibition of the use of hand held mobile phone (10).

A total of 15 persons were charged for the soliciting of passengers (touting).

Ivelaw Whittaker Police Public Relations and Press Officer

Indo-Caribbean Federation of America elects officers GECOM has not accredited Dear Editor, The Indo-Caribbean Federation held its Executive Election last Thursday at its office in Richmond Hill, Queens.

I conducted the elections and visiting Guyana IAC activist Parmanand Sukhu was an observer. I was one of the founders of the Federation that was launched in 1984. Other founders included Trinidadian Bhanu Dwarika, Vishnu Bandhu, Dr Baytoram Ramharack, Rudra Nath, Ramesh Kalicharran, and Iserdat Ramdehal.

Incumbent Ralph Tamesh was re-elected as President for a fourth term. Tamesh has been with the Federation for 26 years. Lisa Edoo, Chief Eexecutive Officer of Memvar Realty, also returned as the Vice-President for a second term. Edoo has been with the ICF for the last 10 years.

Shamin Ali, Marketing Manager of Laparkan, was elected as the Treasurer. And Mala Dasrat was elected as the Secretary.

The Federation elected its Board of Directors: Frank Singh, President of Marine Funding a member of the Federation since 1987; Imran Ahmad of ITV and host of the popular TV show “Kaal Ki Baat” and emcee of many local shows in Queens New York and Radio Broadcaster; and Robert Mohamed of

WICR Radio 1620 am Radio in Richmond Hill Queens.

Committee members elected are: Stanley Raj, President of Main Street Insurance and also a veteran of the Federation for over 15 years; Anoop Dhanpat, leader of the Sansar Sangeet Orchestra and a member for 16 years and whose band has performed at its annual Indian Arrival Day celebrations; Yvonne Singh, a member for several years; Sattie Sahadeow who has been with the ICF for over seven years; and Son Son Sonipersaud, a popular singer in the IndoCaribbean Community.

Other committee members elected include Sabrina Prabhudyal, Shalini Hamid, Ramchand Lackanlall, Annand Mohunlall and Randy Harris.

In his re-election speech, President Tamesh thanked me as the election returning officer, and the observer Parmanand Persaud for overseeing the electoral process and the members for displaying confidence in his leadership to serve another term.

“I want to thank Vishnu Bisram for his commitment to the Federation. He has been with the organzaition since its was founded 30 years ago.

I wish to first thank every one of you here tonight once again for electing me for another two years and for tremendous

support given to me.

“I also wish to applaud and commend you for your dedication and the tireless service given to the Federation, and by extension the IndoCaribbean community. As a result of your hard work, the Federation has grown in size and stature in the community. I look forward for your continuous support and I aim to strengthen the trust and confidence you have placed in my leadership”.

The President also congratulated those who were elected in various positions in the leadership of the organizations and wish them well.

He urged them to continue to work hard so that planned events will be more successful than the preceding year.

The new Executive saluted the President for his years of service and commitment to the organization and the community.

Vishnu Bisram

GPSU with observer status

Dear Editor, The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) wishes to clarify a couple of misleading articles recently published in the print media. Kaieteur News on February 4 carried an article headlined, “GPSU approved as observers for May 11 polls” while Stabroek News on February 7, published one headlined, “GPSU granted observer status for elections”.

GECOM wishes to categorically state that it has so far made no such accreditation of the GPSU as an observer of any kind for the upcoming May 11 elections.

GECOM would like to further point out that it is in receipt of a letter of application for Domestic Observer Status from the GPSU, to which it responded - by way of a letter - meticulously outlining a menu of terms and conditions that the GPSU must satisfy before consideration could be given by GECOM for accreditation.

Upon the agreement by the GPSU on the terms and conditions outlined by GECOM, the Commission would then write to the GPSU, inviting them to meet with GECOM officials relative to a further finalization of accreditation arrangements.

GECOM welcomes the interest shown by the GPSU in ensuring that this Elections Management Body produces elections that are transparent, free, fair and credible.

Richard Francois Public Relations Officer, GECOM

6

thursday, February 12, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

News All set for APNU’s massive campaign launch …surprise new candidates to be unveiled

By Gomatie Gangadin

T

he main Opposition – A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) said it was excited and ready for the launching of its elections campaign later this month, promising a package of surprise new candidates and other major announcements.

This is according to General Secretary Joseph Harmon who on Wednesday told the Guyana Times that the party is in full swing with preparations for its February 20 elections campaign launch.

He noted that even as he was speaking, the party was meeting and fine-tuning details so that the campaign can bring the desired results.

“The preparations are a work in progress. There are several meetings taking place to ensure that everything is set and in order. We are excited by what is happening and we are prepared for the February 20 launch,” Harmon said. He noted that the party will be having its leadership meeting on Friday where the final discussions on

the launch were expected to take place and any necessary changes will be made so that the launch can be successful.

The General Secretary has promised that the coalition will be unveiling several surprise candidates at the launch on February 20, days before the country celebrates its Republican Anniversary.

He was at the time responding to the question of whether Guyanese society can expect any surprises in terms of the party’s list of candidates.

“Oh definitely, definitely, we will be having lots of surprises. Last week, we had the Justice For All Party (JFAP) reaffirming their commitment with the party and since then they have been participating in every activity of the Partnership. We have had known PPP [People’s Progressive Party] supporters coming and telling us that they wish to get on board, since they are disenchanted by the current Administration.

We have been getting lots of people coming on board, so we will have surprises on February 20,” the APNU General Secretary disclosed.

viously told this newspaper that Dr Rupert Roopnaraine will remain as the Prime Ministerial Candidate for the grouping if current coalition talks were not successful.

Noting that Roopnaraine has enjoyed the confidence of the coalition, Harmon said he will not be replaced. Asked whether APNU had any policy in choosing its Prime Ministerial Candidate based on ethnicity, Harmon answered in the negative. He further said that there are no plans to replace any of the party members in their respective posts.

Youth candidates

APNU Leader David Granger pays rapt attention to what is being said by a citizen at the party’s outreach in Berbice

He was, however, adamant on not revealing any names, saying “you will have to wait until February 20 to get the new names. It is a surprise”. Harmon expressed that APNU remained optimistic of winning a majority come May 11, since it has

faith in its support base and Guyanese society.

Leadership

Meanwhile, APNU Chairman, retired Brigadier David Granger is said to be the Partnership’s Presidential Candidate. Harmon had pre-

Granger himself had also previously told a news conference that youth candidates were actively being considered by the party. He said there was a formula which gives representation to geographical areas, gender, competence, occupation and “geographical age”. “So we have a list of criteria which we will use, but they aren’t absolute.

They aren’t absolute yard sticks. You don’t put somebody simply because they’re young and they might be stupid; you want to put somebody who is competent and satisfies the other criteria.

We want to put people from the hinterland, the coastland; people who are from different occupations. We’re looking for a balance,” Granger said.

Meanwhile, regarding the elections campaign, head of the Guyana Youth and Students Movement (GYSM), Ryan Belgrave had told this newspaper that the coalition will be taking its campaign to every corner of the country and will be targeting the young people, since they make up more than 69 per cent of the voting population.

He noted that it is time for the youths to exercise their rights to ensure a better education system and the availability of job opportunities which is currently lacking under the ruling Administration.

Belgrave related that the party will be utilising social media as well as the traditional methods of going doorto-door to get the party’s message out. The youth leader also disclosed that the party will be seeking to have its messages translated as best as it possibly can into the language of the Amerindians, naturalised Chinese and Brazilians so that they too can come on board with the party and its plans for Guyana.

Domestic Violence Regulations launched

A

fter recognising deficiencies in the Domestic Violence Act tabled in 1996, the Ministries of Human Services and Legal Affairs on Wednesday launched the Domestic Violence Regulations.

Gazetted on January 31, Legal Affairs Minister and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, said the amendments were made to the Act with the aim of creating easier access to justice for victims of domestic violence.

“Very few people can afford lawyers, so we want to ensure everyone has access to justice,” Minister Nandlall

said while adding that in the new regulations, sections of the Domestic Violence Act were amended to allow victims to testify in the court of law verbally.

That is, without an affidavit. This means that the services of a lawyer will not necessarily be mandatory in domestic violence cases.

There are also amendments to assure efficiency in addressing of cases of domestic violence within judicial system. “Time and delay has always been a serious problem in domestic violence matters. After a report has been made on the DV violator, and

the offender has been notified, often times the victim and abuser continue to share the same home,” Nandlall said.

The Minister said the issue of domestic violence escalating out of anger has always been a major concern to officials. Hence, time frames for domestic violence matters to be heard in court have been specified.

On the side of the executors of the law, the regulations also seek to clarify terms used in the Act that at times make it difficult for even magistrates to comprehend, the Legal Affairs Minister explained.

In keeping up with the technological era at the level of the judicial system, Serving Orders can now be sent via email, thus shortening the time it takes for them to be delivered.

Often times in cases of domestic violence, children tend to suffer as a result of their parents potentially splitting up. With the new regulations, provisions have also been made for magistrates to give orders with regards to the care and custody of the children involved.

The fact was reiterated by Human Services Minister Jennifer Webster and Education Minister Priya

Manickchand during their presentations at the Cara Lodge Hotel.

Because of its prevalence, Minister Webster said the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) had identified domestic violence as an issue of global concern.

As a result, it has embarked on funding activities in various countries with the aim of warding off the problem.

Webster pointed out that one in every four women who die, die at the hands of their partners.

Minister Webster highlighted that in 2014, the Guyana Police Force reported 3051 cases of domestic violence. In addition, 1684 cases were followed through, while 1500 offenders were warned and 18 cases were referred to the Probation and Social Services Department at the Human Services Ministry.

There are presently over 1000 pending matters.

Reporting domestic violence

The optimistic Human Services Minister said she is eagerly awaiting the convening of the next Parliament to make her case for healthcare workers to report suspected cases of domestic violence to the relevant authorities.

The Minister said health workers should become more aware of the physical signs of violence in order to report them. “I will personally seek the cooperation of the Guyana Police Force the law in enforced in these cases,” Webster declared.

Director of Social Services Wentworth Tanner echoed similar sentiments. He urged persons in society to intervene and get involved in domestic violence matters. “This

thing that is man and wife story and you should stay out should stop. We are way passed that age,” Tanner said.

He pointed out that a lot of persons neglect victims of domestic violence and blame them for remaining in abusive relationships but said many times, victims are trapped by fear.

Addressing domestic violence

Education Minister Manickchand said Guyana has progressed a far way in addressing issues of domestic violence.

She pointed out that since 1996 when the Domestic Violence Act was passed; there has been significant improvement in the way Guyanese respond to acts of domestic violence.

“Guyana has now moved from a place of acceptance of domestic violence to frowning upon it,” she said.

There has also been the establishment of a number of organisations aimed at combating domestic violence such as the Men’s and Women’s Affairs Bureau, the Minister said. Manickchand believes that the basis for ridding domestic violence lies in nipping the problem at the root.

She suggested gender equality by way of equal job opportunities and access to education among others.

However, the fight to end domestic violence in Guyana is still a significant struggle.

Many women have lost their lives at the hands of their spouses over the years.

There have been instances where women have suffered multiple stab and chop wounds at the hands of their spouses while in some cases children have lost their lives.

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thursday, febrUARY 12, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

New youth party to contest election – vows to end politics of allegation, race

A

group of young Guyanese has been mobilised to form the Guyana Youth Movement which they said will be contesting the upcoming May 11 Elections, mainly aimed at encouraging youth involvement in the political sphere.

Administrator Robin Singh in an interview with the Guyana Times said the movement was initiated with the belief that Guyanese youth were not well represented or being mentored in any way to achieve success.

“They (young people) are being told your turn will come…They’re being taught that protest action is the only way to get something done, which is nonsense,” says Singh, who is currently the President of the Guyana Baseball League.

He believes that there are other more effective means

GYM Administrator Robin Singh

to seek change than a public protest. “I have worked with a lot of young people as a coach and I thought that I could show them how to win at the biggest game that’s being played in Guyana – politics,”” Singh informed.

Principal among the issues of concern is the per-

ception of social inequality within the country, he pointed out, lamenting that while there were “great policies” in Guyana, the implementation of these remain a challenge.

“We’d like to see young people know that the system is fair and that the policies can work for them and you do not have to know somebody to get something done,” he added.

Singh pointed to the Government’s Remigrant Scheme as one such system that is unfair to young Guyanese living here. For him the inequity exists when person coming back into Guyana receive certain benefits like duty-free concessions which are not available for many young people living within the country. “If it’s the birthright of someone living out of Guyana, it should be the birthright of someone living here,” he added.

“These are the kind of

things that we are going to press for; not wholesale changes where we are going to break up this and break up that. We want to move away from the politics of allegations, the politics of race, and the politics of not doing something because you didn’t think of it.”

He believes that for too long some in office have failed to see the potentially meaningful contributions of others that could be used to propel the nation.

The GYM is running for seats in Parliament where it believes its cause to push for improvement of issues affecting young people could be successful. Singh informed this publication that the party is working to finalise certain electoral requirements to ensure that it can compete in at least six of the 10 geographical constituencies before a campaign is officially launched. Not al-

lowing the challenges of finances and distance to affect the movement, Singh said there was a team of smart young people who would come together with an effective campaign through the use of social media to reach their target audience.

According to the GYM Constitution, suitable candi-

for electoral ability, they can choose to stay on in management or advisory roles. The three main political parties all boast youth arms, but the criticism is that once in Parliament, the issues that affect this demographic are not holistically addressed.”

Singh, a Computer Science graduate from

“We want to move away from the politics of allegations, the politics of race, and the politics of not doing something because you didn’t think of it.” – Administrator Robin Singh dates from the youth membership will be identified to stand for public office. It intends to support these candidates with briefings and training and by improving political campaigning methods. But there still is a role for members over 40. According to the GYM Constitution, “the role of older members is restricted to management and advice, as youth members grow past our threshold

the School of Business and Management, has years of experience as a Video Analyst for West Indies Cricket. The CEO of Guyana Baseball League Incorporated and previously Cricket Operations at the Guyana Cricket Board, he boasts 14 years’ experience of delivering sporting excellence in multiple sports in Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana.

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thursday, february 12, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Construction worker fined for marijuana possession

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n 18-year-old construction worker appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Wednesday to face a charge of possession of narcotics. Fidel France pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him by the Chief Magistrate.

The charge alleged that the defendant had in his possession 4 grams of marijuana, on Fidel France

South Ruimveldt Public Road, Georgetown.

Attorney Ronaldo Daniels representing the defendant told the court that his client is a school dropout who had to take on the burden as a bread winner for his family. He added that France is employed as a construction worker at Mocha, on the East Bank of Demerara.

The Chief Magistrate fined the defendant $3000, along with six months community service.

Eyew tness Campaign...

A

...of the generals

s an armchair general from Burnham's army, David Granger wasn't in any war on his way up to "Bridadiership". But he sure attended a lot of courses in strategy. And most of these courses had to do with how to deal with civilian populations.

Think of it. While Burnham formed his army in 1965 on the eve of independence, he definitely couldn't be thinking of external aggression when he demobilised the Special Services Unit formed by the departing British. No Siree!!

After all, that Unit was equally balanced between Indian and African Guyanese. And this didn't fit in with Burnham's plan to keep power through loyalty of "kith and kin". So fellas like young David Granger were shipped off to Mons in England and it was only when they returned - voila!! Army launched!!

Chaps like Major Sattaur were given their marching orders...and young guns like Granger were positioned to replace the professionals the British'd left behind.

Now here it was the Venezuelans'd just laid claim to two-thirds of our territory - so you'd think the new army would've been stationed on the western front, no? Well...no! While all were certainly NOT quiet on the western front, OUR army was based on the outskirts of Georgetown (Camp Ayanganna) and on the perimeter of Timehri at our one international airport - (Camp Stephenson and Groomes).

Why?? Well Duh!! To protect Burnham and his band of merry cooperative socialists!!

From these locales, the army could easily be mobilised to conduct night patrols in Opposition Villages. But when the Venezuelans marched in and took over our half of Ankoko Island, there wasn't a solitary soldier to be seen.

The Venezuelans still have that piece of real estate that rightfully belongs to us. And what was young Granger doing?? Well busy with being a leader of SPIC, the unit to "re-educate” the armed forces and the bureaucracy about the "new order". Meaning "Burnham's order, of course!!"

By 1973, the army was ready for other civilian tasks like collecting ballot boxes and hauling them off to Camp Ayanganna to be "counted". Or, as some talkative soldiers later related, to stuff the boxes with already filled out ballots.

Granger says he was abroad when this particular exercise was conducted, but as far as he's concerned it was within SOPs. Even when the soldiers had to kill a couple of civilians...collateral damage. Tough!

So for this campaign, like the last, Granger's reassembled his "old squaddies". They've been deployed to make sure this election is "secured". For the PNC, of course. Wasn't that what the founder leader taught Brigadier Granger??

...of Ghoul-seh-run!

In case, dear reader, you'd forgotten...a "ghoul" is an "old higue" that feeds on dead bodies. There's this fella the Auditor General back in the PNC days - who says he's thinking of forming his own party to run in the upcoming elections. His name is Ghoul-seh-run! The chap's a Hindu and, you know, these folks take their babies to get their names after the Pandit "reads the book".

Now Ghoul-seh-run! is living proof that these Indian folks know what they're talking about!! Ghoul-seh-run! used to live off dead bodies since he was a boy who used to tattle in his friends in school.

The teacher would whip the poor sucker within an inch of his life! Picked from obscurity by an AG named Farn-Num, he qualified himself at Government expense than snickered behind the man's back that he was "unqualified".

Now it looks like the AFC - filled with its own ghouls have rejected him!! When Ghoul-seh-run...you'd better run!

...over for Trotman

As he's never tired of reminding the world, Gruel Johnson helped write the AFC's last Manifesto. For a fee - of course! Raphael Trotman sponsored him. Yet in his dream Cabinet, Gruel omitted Trotman.

Gruel doesn't like accused paedophiles?

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thursday, february 12, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

NIS still to verify 1 million plus contributions M

ore than one million contribution records could not have been verified at the end of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) digitalisation process.

The Scheme completed inputting all outstanding contribution records into its electronic database, but as of December 31, 2014, the incomplete records were not verified.

Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon explained that the final report emanating from the Data Entry and Verification Project indicated that more than 1.1 million of the records entered into NIS’s database have not been verified owing to the absence of critical data such as names and NIS numbers.

“Cabinet understood what this meant, it meant that little bit more than one million contributions had been received by the National Insurance Scheme … but its beneficiaries – an undisclosed number of contributors – they are the ones who are not receiving from those million plus unidentified contribution records,” he further explained.

Dr Luncheon, who was at the time addressing reporters at the Office of the President on Wednesday, said the final report confirmed that millions of dollars in contributions were owed to contributors and pensioners.

Realising that the Scheme cannot correct the deficiencies within the system on its own, Cabinet has ordered NIS to engage the public. He explained that Cabinet has given instructions for the conduct of a public “mapping” exercise that would assist the scheme in identifying those contributors.

The Cabinet Secretary assured the press that all contributors who had encountered difficulties prior to the establishment of the Data Entry and Verification Project, will receive their benefits once eligible.

“Whenever those contributions are indeed found and entered onto the database, benefits associated would be computed from the date those contributions were made and not from the date the contributions entered into the system,” he further explained.

Cabinet had mandated NIS to implement the Data Entry and Verification Project from June 2014 to December 2014 with the clear goal of putting all the outstanding paper records of contributions into the Scheme’s electronic database.

The mandate was given as a result of the criticisms the Scheme attracted from both contributors and pensioners about the deficient contribution records. For years, NIS

the delays in properly signing and computing their benefits.

While collection of debt and other matters have to be attended to, Dr Luncheon said on the front burner was the need to enhance the image of the Scheme.

Contrary to popular belief that NIS is a “cash strapped” institution that is struggling to keep its head above rough waters, the Head of the Presidential Secretariat

The National Insurance Scheme (NIS)

has been unable to identify thousands of contributors and verify their contributions.

“Mixed picture”

Questioned about Cabinet’s perception of the Insurance Scheme, Dr Luncheon said “it’s a mixed picture”, but added that following a visit by the General Manager and Senior Managers to Cabinet, there is a better “awareness of the performance”.

According to him, Cabinet has urged NIS to improve its performance in an effort to reduce the number of complaints levied by contributors and pensioners as a result of

said the “scheme is solvent and financially sound”.

“I think what the challenge would be is to ensure that it remains that way,” he added.

In an invited comment, he added that the board ought not to be the sole repository despite its composition, with representatives from the Government, political opposition and the Private Sector.

“I believe that there is room for improvement and I have been thinking along the lines of legislation, amendment to the legislation to have a greater role of the National Assembly to determining some of the deci-

sions that are right now done by the very Act, discharged by the board.”

Asked about recent disclosures by the Berbice Bridge Company (BBCI) that it would be unable to pay dividends to NIS, which is a major shareholder, for the year ending 2014, Dr Luncheon shied away from answering the question directly.

He would only say that recovery of debts was playing a greater role in ensuring the viability of the Scheme, as he alluded to funds being collected from the employed and self-employed populations and investments made.

“The evidence is there, we can do better when it comes to collection of debt,” he added.

According to a source, late last year, NIS received correspondence indicating that the Bridge Company did not record a profit.

The NIS source had also disclosed that the Company also indicated that its income was severely affected by the application of IFRIC 12 Service Concession Agreement, an interpretation of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

This newspaper understands that the announcement by the Company did not sit well with the NIS Board and there were a lot of discussions at the highest level on the issue.

It is unclear whether NIS which had invested over $1.5 billion in the bridge venture has ever received any return on its investments.

Back in 2012, it was reported that quite remarkably, the Scheme had passed up some $200 million in dividends from the BBCI, at a time actuarial reports showed it was running out of money.

The ownership structure of the BBCI is made up of ordinary share capital of $400 million owned by private investors and preference shares of $950 million owned by NIS. The holders of the ordinary shares, are NIS, NEW GPC, Queens Atlantic and Secure International Finance Company, each having $80 million, and Hand-in-Hand and Demerara Contractors (owned by Demerara Distillers Limited [DDL]), each holding $40 million.

Water level critically low in Abary Conservancy

T

he water level in the Abary Conservancy is “dangerously low”, the Mahaica/Mahaicony/AbaryAgricultural Development Authority (MMA-ADA) said in a statement on

Wednesday.

The Authority has since advised farmers of the situation. Noting that the water level is currently 58.42 GD (Georgetown Datum) whereas dead storage is 59.5

GD, the Authority said that all persons in the Abary/ Berbice block of the MMA area must take immediate steps to conserve and prevent wastage of irrigation water.

The statement said that they must ensure that regulators on the secondary irrigation canals are blocked, that all field drainage outlets are blocked, conserve on field/crop use and report any

tampering with any structure to the authorities.

Farmers in the Mahaica and Mahaicony are to: regulate their pumping activities, avoid tampering or damaging any infrastruc-

ture and conserve on crop use.

Farmers were warned that failure to comply could lead to prosecution and imprisonment under Section 34 of the MMA Act.

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guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, febrUARY 12, 2015

News

Neesa Gopaul murder trial

Detective grilled over crime scene work T

he trial into the murder of former Queen’s College student Neesa Lalita Gopaul continues at the High Court with yet another investigator taking the stand.

Police Corporal Floyd Hosannah from the Crime Scene Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Eve Leary, testified on Tuesday that he was among the party of policemen who went to the scene on October 2, 2010, where they found the teen’s body in a suitcase partially submerged in the creek at Emerald Tower Resort, Madewini Creek.

He noted that there was a rope holding the suitcase in place and

Dead: Sixteen-year-old Neesa Gopaul

Lance Corporal Germaine Laundry managed to cut the rope and pulled the

female. He recalled that the face was unrecognisable, but there were some documents in the suitcase, including a Guyana Passport made out to one “Neesa Gopaul”. He added that they took the body out of the bag as well as the items found, and placed them into evidence bags.

He said the evidence was later marked and lodged for safe keeping.

The trial began last week against the teenager’s mother, Bibi Sharima Gopaul, and her former lover Jarvis Small, called “Barry”. The duo is indicted with the murder of the 16-year-old, which

bag to the bank of the creek where they opened it and found the body of a

Murder accused: Bibi Sharima Gopaul

they allegedly committed between September 24 and October 2, 2010 at Madewini, SoesdykeLinden Highway. State Counsel Diana Kaulesar is prosecuting the case along with Mercedes Thompson and Stacy Gooding. The teen’s mother is being represented by Attorney George Thomas while Small is represented by Attorneys Glenn Hanoman, Lyndon Amsterdam and Senior Counsel Bernard De Santos.

Omissions Under cross-examination by Attorney Hanoman, the witness said that there were no signs at the scene that indicated that someone was recently there.

The Attorney further asked Hosannah whether he had gone into any of the buildings nearby to investigate or had seen any of the other officers entering the buildings. He respond-

ed in the negative to both questions and acknowledged that he should have gone into the buildings.

Additionally, the witness claimed that he did not question persons around the area at the time since it was late in the night when Hanoman asked why he did not talk to persons living at the entrance to the trail leading to the creek. The officer explained that he was not sure whether persons were living there at the time and if he would have gotten any answer.

Nevertheless, when questioned by the Attorney if he was satisfied with the work done to process the scene before he left, the seasoned crime investigator said “to an extent”. In addition, the witness was asked whether he did anything specific to determine the identity of the remains since the face was unrecognisable and there was no way they could have known whether it was indeed the holder of the passport. He was specifically asked about taking fingerprints from the remains and looking for any other foreign prints that might have been left on the body, but the officer explained that the water damage removed any possibility of retrieving such evidence.

Hosannah went on to

that while at the scene on October 2 after they cut the rope from the suitcase, he pulled it but it did not move from under the water, so he let it go.

Asked by the Attorney if he or any of the other officers tried to find what was holding the rope down, he replied in the negative.

In response to questions posed about securing the scene, Hosannah disclosed that he cordoned off the area, noting that it was the first thing he did when he got there. He explained that the area where the suitcase was found could not be cordoned off because they were not sure how deep the water was at the time. The witness was then shown photos of the scene and asked to identify where the cordon tape was but could not do this. He explained to the court that the cordon tape covered a wide area and, therefore, could not be seen in the photos, most of which were close-ups of the scene.

Meanwhile, during cross-examination by Attorney Thomas, Hosannah admitted that he was unable to connect the evidence gathered at the scene to anyone specifically, more so, to the mother of the deceased.

The Attorney further asked the witness whether he could have determined

Murder accused: Jarvis Small

tell the court that he was told by investigators who returned to the scene two days later that a pair of dumbbells used as an anchor to hold the suitcase down was found. He related that he did not see the dumbbells until he was giving evidence at the Magistrate’s Court for the case.

The witness added

the race of the body found, to which he responded in the negative. The witness said that he was trained in handling decomposed bodies and could not determine how long the body was submerged in the water. The trial into the gruesome murder of the 16-year-old will continue today.

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thursDAY, february 12, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Guyana seeks US support for oil and gas development A s Government continues to develop the framework for the nascent oil and gas sector, efforts to engage international partners and countries are proceeding apace.

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud during the course of last week met with a mission from the Bureau of Energy Resources of the US Department of State, which was headed by Director Paul Hueper.

Hueper was accompanied

by Nicole Gibson of the Office of Energy Programmes with the aim of further assisting Guyana in the development of its technical capacity in relation to the oil and gas sector.

Minister Persaud noted that the Government of Guyana has been working with the US Department of State since 2010 on human resources development for the hydrocarbon sector, through various workshops and seminars.

He stated that the Government of Guyana must now determine how it will manage the sector by looking at the various models.

Governance options

“The Energy Governance and Capacity Initiative (EGCI) can assist in determining the best governance option for Guyana. The ideal situation is to govern by legalisation where petroleum revenues are separate and not available for normal usage. The Government

of Guyana is currently seeking to undertake a study which will determine the best model for the development of a sovereign wealth fund type system,” the Natural Resources and Environment Minister said.

He pointed out that the first step must be to develop the governance and regulatory framework which will support the growth of the sector in the long term, since every country must have its own model for the development and management of this sector.

It is expected that the EGCI will work with the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) on the implementation mechanism for addressing the various issues of capacity development.

The EGCI is a US State Department-led interagency effort to provide a wide range of technical and capacity building assistance to the host Governments of select countries that are on the verge of becoming the world’s next generation of oil and gas producers.

The countries receiving EGCI assistance have world-class hydrocarbon resource potential and expect to receive sizable, nearterm financial windfalls from the development of their oil and gas resources. EGCI’s core objective is to help these countries establish the capacity to manage their oil and gas sector resources responsibly.

Although EGCI’s goals are

country-specific in nature, the programme broadly tries to ensure sound and transparent energy sector governance for the benefit of national economic development.

Minister Persaud also noted that drilling in deepwater areas as well as test evaluation (productivity test) will continue.

The Natural Resources Ministry had launched its Upstream Gas and Oil Policy to ensure the sustainability of the emergent sector on January 22 this year. The Minister had noted at that time that Guyana would be embarking on a number of engagements with bilateral and multilateral partners on how the country could receive the support it needed to have a comprehensive overview of the situation.

He noted that Guyana was currently a prime target for petroleum exploration. The country’s offshore basin and, to a lesser extent, its inland Takutu Basin are currently attracting a great deal of interest from petroleum exploration companies. The Policy envisions a strong, vibrant, and sustainable Private Sector-driven oil and gas industry, which will contribute significantly to Guyana’s socio-economic development. The policy document represents Guyana’s first attempt at setting out specific policy objectives and implementation measures for the exploration and potential development of upstream oil and gas resources found here.

Minibus operators blank reducing fares, taxi services still undecided

Government had expressed disappointment in the public transportation sector for not lowering their prices

U

nited Guyana Minibus Union President Eon Andrews said it was absolutely unreasonable for the public and authorities to request and expect such a small industry to lower their service charges simply because of the recent drop in fuel prices on the local market.

On Monday, President Donald Ramotar once again expressed the Government’s disappointment in the public transportation sector for not lowering their prices and urged them to act accordingly so that all of Guyana can benefit from the reduced fuel prices.

In fact, several other service sectors have announced decisions to lower their prices, but the public transportation sector is still holding out. However, Andrews said he was only hearing promises of future implementation and not actual movement, referring to the Guyana Power and Light’s move to lower energy tariffs by 10 per cent in March.

Furthermore, Andrews explained that the Union had to negotiate for five years for a mere $20 increase, and if they were to drop the bus fares, then it may take years again before the fares return to the current price.

He also stressed on the other expenses that bus operators have to endure, such as

those for vehicular parts and maintenance.

“I don’t want the public to think we are being unreasonable, but you have to consider all the parameters,” Andrews said.

He stated that the sector did not benefit from any form of subsidy from the Government to relieve the operators from the heavy prices on the free market, building his case as to why it was not feasible to drop the fares.

On the other hand, Taxi Services Association President Vibert Pooran said the members of the Association still needed to discuss the situation before he can comment on a way forward.

Meanwhile, the Minibus Union President revealed that he was invited to a meeting with the Private Sector Commission (PSC) where the possibility of lowering transportation fares will be a topic of interest.

He further stated that the Union would soon negotiate with the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry about the current situation, the challenges facing bus operators and the reasons it would be unfair for them to lower the fares.

Andrews also noted that the Union did not own the buses, but simply represented the operators; therefore, it cannot impose a fare reduction even if it was practical.

12 news

thursday, february 12, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

GDF Women Corps celebrates 48th anniversary T

he women of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), represented by serving and retired female officers and ranks, gathered in the auditorium at Base Camp Ayanganna last Wednesday for a celebratory thanksgiving church service, to mark the observance of the 48th anniversary of the Women’s Army Corps (WAC).

As befitting tradition, their male counterparts joined them in commemorating the milestone. According to a GDF release, while congratulating the WAC on its 48th anniversary, Chief

The congregation at the WAC 48th Anniversary church service

of Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips also congratulated all the women of the GDF

who were recently promoted. “The Corps has come a long way and has served

the Force and the nation well over those years,” he said. “In a universal mili-

Moray House hosts more “Representations of Race in Guyanese Literature”

T

he fourth and penultimate session of “Race: A Guided Discussion” will take place today at 17:30h at Moray House Trust, Camp Street, Georgetown.

In this session, “Understanding Ourselves – “Representations of Race in Guyanese Literature – The Sublime, the Confused and the Downright Dirty”, the focus will be on how Guyanese from Amerindian, Portuguese, Chinese and Mixed heritage perceive and experience race in Guyana.

This comes on the heels of the recently-concluded third session, which began to narrow the broader general discussions about the genesis and objective basis of ideas about race through readings and a discussion about how race is represented in Guyanese literature.

There were 10 brilliant presentations of 10 minutes each which examined a wide variety of writing from very early writing on Guyana’s old plantation journals, to the writing of Edgar Mittelholzer, Martin Carter, Beryl Agatha Gilroy, Wilson Harris, and Jan Shinebourne as well as cartoon representations of race, to the work of Walter Rodney and newer writers like Sonia Yarde and Mosa Telford. Presenters at session three were Dr Mark Tumbridge,

tary sub-culture characterised by male dominance, the leadership of the GDF has shifted from an organisational policy that limited our women soldiers to supporttype duties such as catering, clerical, and medical, to one where our women officers and soldiers are trained like their male counterparts on all courses offered by the GDF.

“We are, therefore, preparing you to serve in any command and staff appointment throughout the GDF,” he added. Brigadier Phillips highlighted the breaking of the “glass ceiling” with the elevation of female officers to the rank of Colonel in the GDF. He noted too that females in the GDF gained the same benefits regarding educational development, something, the Force remained committed to deliver.

“You are assured that none of us will doubt your value and significance to our country. I remain confident that, as a Corps, you will embrace the changes that are necessary for the development of the GDF. As such, you are expected to always conduct yourselves in such a manner as to continue earning the respect and support of the wider Guyanese society.”

Region 10 Chairman to meet with protesting Mackenzie High teachers

F

Prizewinning playwright Mosa Telford during her presentation at the session on “Representations of Race in Guyanaese Literature”

Petamber Persaud, Dr Joyce Jonas, Sonia Yarde, Vanda Radzik, Barrington Braithwaite, Ras Michael Jeune, Dr Juanita Cox and Mosa Telford. Highly appreciative audience members said the session was a “veritable literary treat” and a “journey into self expression and introspection”.

Apart from the session on February 12, there will be only one other on February 17, at 17:30h as the series ends next week. The final session is themed “Guyana: A Positive Example

For The World?” There will be a short ABC film: “Confronting Discrimination In the USA”, while the focus of the final event will be Guyana’s multi-ethnicity and evidence of an emerging positive Guyanese Identity.

“Race: A Guided Discussion” is an apolitical knowledge sharing event facilitated by Dr Paloma Mohamed, social psychologist on sabbatical from the University of Guyana and supported by Moray House Trust. It is free and open to the public.

ollowing the recent protest by teachers of the Mackenzie High School (MHS) in Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice), Regional Chairman Sharma Solomon has agreed to meet with those affected.

The teachers had signed a petition last week after protesting at the Regional Education Department and Regional Democratic Council (RDC), and had outlined a number of issues they wished to see ironed out. Among those issues were an improperly functioning female washroom and leaking classrooms at the school’s main building; no access to potable water; poor security – gaps in fence; no farmland and non-appointment of teachers to senior positions, as well as a lack of electricity to the new block.

Solomon, who is also Chairman of the Region 10 Education Committee, stated that following consultations with the affected teachers, an official meeting has been organised for sometime this week. He noted that the issues outlined by the teachers are not new, since he was made aware of them since last year.

“We had a number of discussions … and we are organising a meeting with the Board. I am very disturbed as to the conditions under which the teachers were operating, not only because it’s a premier school, but I remember on the 1st of September (2014), I brought this matter to the (attention of the) Education Committee, in the presence of the Regional Education Officer, and we had a whole lot of commitment being made for them to look at these matters. Sanitation or the absence of washroom for teachers is of concern …

Some of the other matters were brought up time and

Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon

time again and it is of concern to me as Chairman of the Region and as Chairman of the Education Committee, as well as people of this community,” he said.

Solomon registered his disappointment, adding that the matters should have already been addressed, given the time they were brought to the attention of administrators of education in the Region. As such, he said he questioned the level of competence of these administrators.

“The Department of Education needs to take a deeper look at the situation as well as the Ministry of Education. I am very concerned that the necessary attention was not paid…Why should we allow our teachers to be working under such condition? That is unacceptable…,” he stated.

The Regional Chairman stated that some works were done to the washroom facility of the school last week following the protests. The teachers began protesting the deplorable working conditions at the school on Monday, February 2, which led to students being sent home for days.

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thursday, febrUARY 12, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Cabinet approves revival of Media Monitoring Unit H ead of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon said Cabinet has favorably considered Guyana Elections Commission’s (GECOM) recommendation for the resuscitation of the Media Monitoring Unit (MMU).

At the time he was addressing reporters during his weekly post-Cabinet media briefing at the Office of the President on Wednesday. He said too that Cabinet was made aware of the offer by the European Union (EU) Delegation and other international donors to support the resuscitation of the Unit.

Even before the proclamation by President Donald Ramotar that General and Regional Elections would be held on May 11, GECOM had been seeking funding to aid in the resuscitation of the unit.

The unit’s functions include monitoring the media and reporting on breaches of the principles enshrined in the Media Code of Conduct and norms associated with international best practices in journalism, and encourages equity, balance and fairness in news reporting. It

GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally flanked by the UNDP Policy Analyst Lea Zoric and Political Affairs Officer Richard Gee

also promotes the raising of professional standards in the media.

In the lead up to the 2011 Elections, the Bharrat Jagdeo Administration had pulled the plug on the MMU, resulting in its life coming to an end in July 2010. It was Dr Luncheon, who in the capacity of Head of the Presidential Secretariat, advised the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to halt funding for the unit. The decision was made even though, GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally had that year written to the Head of the Presidential Secretariat, making a case for the continuance of the

MMU. Dr Surujbally, in his letter, had also alluded to the role the unit played in the 2006 Elections.

Nevertheless, in addition to updating the Cabinet on the financial support that is being offered for the resuscitation of the unit, Dr Luncheon said the Cabinet was also informed of the visit by the United Nations (UN) Electoral Needs Assessment Mission to GECOM. “Cabinet was of course reminded that historically the UN system they would mount such missions in participating states, who as Guyana on May 11 would be entering into an electoral cycle. The

essentially would extensively and intensively review the preparedness for the National Authorities in this case, GECOM for holding the elections”. In addition to meeting with GECOM, the UN Electoral Needs Assessment Mission would also be consulting with other stakeholders during this electoral season.

Meanwhile, GECOM in a statement on Wednesday confirmed its meeting with its UN electoral experts, noting that it continues to strategically engage its International Development Partners in the lead up to the May 11 elections.

According to the re-

lease, GECOM Chairman recently met with a small delegation of electoral experts from the UNDP to discuss a number of pertinent issues pertaining the effective and efficient management of the upcoming elections.

“During the meeting, the team discussed the upcoming elections and the challenges the Commission may face in the successful delivery of the polling in May. Some of the points discussed included results management, electoral disputes, party financing, gender, voter information and campaign access to media, as well as the role of international and national observer groups,” GECOM disclosed.

During the meeting, GECOM took the opportunity to highlight the Commission’s current state of preparation for the conduct of elections, and other areas, such as the provision of consultancies, advisors, and experts, particularly in the area of Civic and Voter Education.

Policy Analyst – Election & Gender Governance and Peace building, Bureau for Policy and Programme Support, Lea Zoric; and Electoral/ Political Affairs Officer, Electoral Assistance Division, Department of Political Affairs, Richard Gee were two UNDP experts that met with GECOM.

2 arrested for illegal gun at Waraputa

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wo men are in police custody assisting in the investigation into the discovery of an unlicensed 12 gauge shotgun and eight cartridges in a boat they were travelling.

Ranks of a police marine patrol at Waraputa, Essequibo River stopped and searched a boat result-

ing in the discovery of the gun and ammunitions.

The two men who were in the boat at the time were cautioned, told of the offence and arrested.

Charges are expected to be laid shortly as police continue their investigations into the matter.

14 news

thursDAY, february 12, 2015| guyanatimesGY.com

18 GDF Ensigns promoted to Second Lieutenant T

he Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on Wednesday hosted its officers’ parade at the Drill Square, Camp Ayanganna, where 18 officer cadets who completed the Standard Officers’ Course number 47 were promoted to Second Lieutenants.

The Lieutenants, two of whom represent the Belize Defence Force and another from the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force, were decorated with their new Badges of Rank following the simple but exciting ceremony.

Twenty year old Lewins Langellier was awarded the best graduating student and was awarded the Sword of Honour. In brief remark, Langellier noted that his success would not have been possible had it not been for him making many sacrifices and having self discipline.

The newly commissioned Second Lieutenants on Wednesday at the ceremony

“Standards, discipline, sacrifice, resilience and fortitude are some of the words that come to mind when I think of the Standard Officers’ Course number 47.

Over the past months, I was privileged to be a part of a life changing journey; a journey that shaped and mould-

ed me in way unimaginable. My physical and mental abilities have surely increased and I have realized that when success becomes as important as breathing, then you will be successful”, the young man said.

The Lieutenants were reminded of the importance of

65 NDCs council workers to get pay increase

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orkers operating within the 65 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) across Guyana will receive a five per cent increase in their wages and salaries, effective January 1, 2015.

The announcement was made by Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon on Wednesday. Speaking at the

Office of the President, he explained that the approval was granted by Cabinet on the basis that the Councils would be able to finance the increase based on workers’ December, 2014 salaries.

Additionally, Cabinet has approved increases in stipends for persons operating within the Local Democratic System, particularly within the NDCs and

the town councils. “Here the focus was on the stipends provided by Ministerial Order to the elected representatives, the councilors, the town councils, its members, the NDCS and its members,” he said.

According to Dr Luncheon details on the increases for these elected representatives would be made available at a later date.

this juncture of their military career and were urged to read and live by the standards of the force with the caution that regardless of how competent they are, or how good they may be; the success and accomplishment of their mission and task depend on their character.

The course commenced on March 21, 2013 with a total of 40 participants, but only 17 endured and were been joined by Officer Cadet Farley Grant who completed a Degree at the Oscar Lucero Moya University in

Cuba. They completed the course and were promoted to Ensigns on January 28.

The course covered several subject areas including an intense programme of military skills and tactics, vigorous physical fitness and team activities assigned to provide stamina and group spirit, leadership and command method, management techniques, military law and national policy.

The Standard Officers Course provides a solid foundation for subsequent professional development of all

Cadets entering the GDF. Many senior Officers of sister services have also received this training. It is also highly recognised by sister Militaries in the Caribbean and Associate nations who have sent and continue to send ranks to undergo training.

The runner up best student went to Noel August, Best Shot and Best Fitness to Ancel Tench, while the Best Military Knowledge and Best Drill went to Winette Smartt, the lone female in the group.

The new Second Lieutenants list reads Lewins Langellier, Kevin Sultan, Neil McDonald, Robin Rogers, Anand Persaud, Keon Stoby, Ancel Tench from the Belizean Defence Force, Patrick Farley Grant, Kaya Dover, Shane Ramphal, Jashawn Norville, Rafael Gordon, Winette Smartt who was also the lone female to succeed in the course, Noel August, Worren Mars, Persival Thomas from the St Kitts and Nevis Defence Force, Shaquone Prince, and Gevon Mcalmont.

Pathologist among 3 overseas doctors joining GPHC

Biomedical Engineer, Roy Morris; Anaesthesiologist, Dr Helen Holtby; GPHC’s CEO, Michael Khan; GPHC’s Director of Medical and Professional Services, Dr Sheik Amir and Consultant Pathologist, Dr Nancy de las Mercedes Sitchao Suarez (from left to right)

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uyana’s pathology department is on the road to expansion, Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran said on Wednesday.

Speaking at a press conference at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) Resource Centre, the Health Minister announced the appointment of Consultant Pathologist, Dr Nancy de las Mercedes Sitchao Suarez at the public hospital, noting that her presence will significantly boost the department.

There has been a significant lack of pathologists in Guyana with only two operating within the public health care system.

In addition to conducting post-mortem examinations, Dr Suarez would assist in addressing the legal matters engaging the hospital. The Health Minister

explained that persons have filed a number of lawsuits against GPHC due to the deaths of their relatives, and Dr Suarez would assist with the backlog of the cases.

In addition to Dr Suarez, Consultant Oncologist, Dr Justo Despaigne Delisle and Consultant Anesthesiologist, Dr Fernando Vladimir Ramirez Tellez will also be working at GPHC. Minister Ramsaran stated that Guyana’s mortality and morbidity rates should be decreased with the help of Dr Delisle, as cancer has contributed greatly to these rates.

The Minister further disclosed that Anaesthesiologist, Dr Helen Holtby and Biomedical Engineer, Roy Morris from the International Children’s Heart Foundation (ICHF) also known as Baby Heart Foundation are also visiting

the hospital to help prepare for the upcoming paediatric heart surgeries that are scheduled to be performed in April.

Dr Holtby is here to assess the hospital’s anaesthetic capacity and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to identify strengths and weaknesses.

Meanwhile, Morris is here to train GPHC’s Biomedical Engineers and also assess the equipment at the hospital.

The foundation will also provide medical training to nurses, physicians and surgeons at the hospital so the health care institution will eventually have the expertise to perform such operations. ICHF will also provide the necessary equipment to GPHC to facilitate surgeries. The ICHF is expected to donate a heart-lung bypass machine, four ventilators and life support equipment to the hospital.

thursday, february 12, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

15

Around the World

Hundreds feared dead Jamaica not ready for after boats sink off Italy anti-beating law, says Education Minister

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Twenty-nine from that boat died of hypothermia in the 18 hours it took the coastguard to ferry them to Italy (AFP)

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n estimated 300 people are feared dead after attempting to reach Italy from Libya in three inflatable rafts, the United Nations refugee agency said after speaking to survivors rescued by Italy’s Coast Guard in the past few days.

An Italian tug boat rescued nine people who had been on two different boats on Monday and brought them to the Italian island of Lampedusa on Wednesday morning.

They are the only known survivors from their two boats, leaving more than 200

unaccounted for, they told the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) officials, according to a tweet by Carlotta Sami, the UNHCR spokesperson for Southern Europe.

Three boats, each carrying about 100 people, are missing, according to interviews with survivors from two of the boats, Barbara Molinario, another UNCHR official, told the Reuters news agency.

The three boats had left Libya together with an additional one from which the Coast Guard picked up 105 people on Sunday in ex-

treme sea conditions and with the temperature hovering just a few degrees above zero, witnesses said.

Twenty-nine from that boat reportedly died of hypothermia in the 18 hours it took the Coast Guard to ferry them to Italy.

Several thousand people have died trying to make the perilous crossing from North Africa to Europe across the Mediterranean in the last year alone.

Italy made a decision last year to end a full-scale search-and-rescue mission, known as Mare Nostrum, due to concerns over costs.

(Al Jazeera)

Ukraine peace summit overshadowed by surge in fighting

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he leaders of France, Germany, Russia and Ukraine gathered for a peace summit in Belarus on Wednesday, while in Ukraine pro-Moscow separatists tightened the pressure on Kiev by launching some of the war’s worst fighting.

The Kiev army said 19 of its soldiers were killed in a day of pro-Russian separatist assaults at a single location near the railway hub of Debaltseve, some of the worst losses it has reported in nine months of war.

Rebels who tore up a five-month-old truce in January are trying to en-

circle Government forces in Debaltseve, a strategic location that would let them link up their main strongholds.

Fighting has already killed more than 5000 people, and Washington is now openly talking of arming Ukraine to defend itself from “Russian aggression”, raising the prospect of a proxy war in the heart of Europe between Cold War foes.

The summit is being held in neighbouring Belarus under a Franco-German proposal to try to halt the fighting.

Chancellor Angela Merkel and President Francois Hollande will meet Ukraine’s Petro Poroshenko

and Russia’s Vladimir Putin.

Putin arrived in the evening about an hour after the other three, who were due to meet briefly before he would join them.

Hopes for a breakthrough appear slim and would depend on Ukraine making most of the concessions, with advancing rebels unlikely to agree to halt and go back to previous positions.

A surge in fighting in the 24 hours before the summit could be intended to force Poroshenko to accept a deal recognising the rebel advance. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Iran: World must seize opportunity of nuclear deal

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Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani’s remarks appear to be a response to US President Barack Obama, who on Monday questioned Iran’s desire to get a deal done [AP]

ran’s President Hassan Rouhani has said that world powers must “seize the opportunity” of a landmark nuclear deal, insisting Tehran had taken the “necessary steps” for an accord.

Rouhani’s remarks on Tuesday appeared to be a response to US President Barack Obama, who on Monday said: “The issues now are – does Iran have the political will and the desire to get a deal done?”

Speaking in Tehran, Rouhani said that although gaps remain between Iran and the P5+1 powers – Britain, China, France, Russia and

the US plus Germany – it was up to them to close a deal.

“Right now good progress has been made although we are some distance away from the final agreement,” he said during a meeting with India’s National Security Adviser, Ajit Rouhani.

“Iran has taken necessary steps and now it’s the other side’s turn to seize the opportunity,” he added.

Two deadlines for a permanent agreement on Iran’s controversial nuclear programme have already been missed, requiring the talks to be extended. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

ducation Minister Ronald Thwaites says Jamaica is not ready to enact legislation to outlaw corporal punishment. The United Nations has called for the Jamaican Government to pass a law to ban the activity.

Jamaican lawyer, Bert Samuels has come out in support, saying corporal punishment is a heritage of Jamaica’s slavery past.

Thwaites says corporal punishment should be generally discouraged but a total ban is not necessary at this time.

He says there are instances where children in

Education Minister Ronald Thwaites

schools need to be disciplined by appropriate force.

However, Thwaites says this

should only be done by senior persons such as school principals and in private.

The United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child issued the call for a law after a presentation from a Jamaican delegation led by Youth Minister Lisa Hanna last month.

The committee was also responding to concerns in a report submitted by human rights group Jamaicans for Justice. However, the Youth Minister says the issue requires what she calls significant dialogue with Jamaicans. (Jamaica Gleaner)

US$29M in cocaine found on St Vincent flagged vessel in Caribbean Sea

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he United States law enforcement authorities say they have seized 989 kilogrammes of cocaine on a vessel carrying a St Vincent and the Grenadines flag in the Caribbean Sea. The US Coast Guard said it had collaborated the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in the exercise that also netted 13

men after detaining a delivery vessel and coastal freighter, about eight miles off the coast of Puerto Rico.

Two Venezuelan nationals were charged “with conspiracy to import the aforementioned cocaine shipment,” the Coast Guard said, adding that the cocaine has an estimated street value of US$29 million.

It said that the other suspects detained on the 267-foot St Vincent and Grenadines flag coastal freighter Atlantic VII

were from The Dominican Republic, Cuba, Peru, Panama and Ecuador. They were also charged with conspiracy to import a controlled substance into the United States.

The cocaine shipment, the detained smugglers, and the delivery vessel were transported to Coast Guard Sector San Juan, and transferred to ICE agents for further investigation, the Coast Guard said. (Excerpt from

Caribbean360)

16 news Vendor before courts for stealing $680 in items Jamaican national remanded for trafficking J thursday, february 12, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

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Akesha Anderson

kesha Anderson was brought before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on trafficking charges.

Anderson pleaded not

guilty to the charges which alleged that on February 6 at the Chaddi Jagan International Airport, she had in her possession 606 grams of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.

Attorney Mark Conway told the court that his client is a Jamaican national and resides at Lot 177 Marine Park, Portmore, Kingston, Jamaica. He said that the 34-year-old woman has no previous convictions in her homeland, and is a hair stylist by profession. He added that she suffers from diabetes and only spend a few days in Guyana, after arriving here on January 29, prior to her arrest.

Prosecutor Oswald

Massiah told the court that on the day in question, a Customs Anti Narcotics Unit (CANU) officer at the airport saw the woman acting in a suspicious manner.

Anderson was approached and she was told of the suspicion. She was examined and after an X-ray was taken, it was revealed that there were some odd shaped objections in her body.

The defendant later excreted 49 pellets of cocaine. She was charges and arrested for the offence.

Anderson was remanded and the matter is said to resume on February 13 at the Providence Magistrate’s Court.

662 charged for speeding in 1 week

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he Guyana Police Force (GPF) in a release stated that 662 cases were made out against errant drivers who were caught speeding along the roadways between February 2 and 8, 2015. As a result of speeding, three persons have lost their lives within the same period.

In one of the cases, Akash Mohan of Number 72 Village, Corentyne reportedly stole a motor vehicle and crashed it into a parked vehicle along the Crabwood Creek, Corentyne main access road. The vehicle, driven by the unlicensed 15-year-old, then turned turtle, critically injuring his 16-year-old friend. Mohan lost his life.

It is believed that the young driver lost control of the vehicle when he hit a heap of small stones in an attempt to evade what was believed to be a Police vehicle. Mohan’s friend, Andrew Sooknandan of Kingston, Corriverton remains hospitalised.

In the other two instances, the drivers were “overworked” and drove their vehicles while in a tired state of mind which caused them to lose control of their vehicles.

Apart from the 662 cases of speeding, 27 were charged for driving under the influence of alcohol; 31 for breach of condition of road service licence; 11 persons were charged for care-

less driving while another 18 were slapped with dangerous driving charges and 10 were prosecuted for failing to wear safety helmets.

Another 52 were charged for failing to wear seat belts and 10 for using mobile phones when driving. Fifteen persons were charged for the soliciting of passengers (touting).

GPF Traffic Department is urging owners of motor vehicles to make every effort to prevent unlicensed persons from having access to the keys of their vehicles; and at the same time is calling on motorists, as far as practicable, not to continue driving a motor vehicle once they recognise that they are in a tired state.

UG Unions pledge to continue strike indefinitely

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he University of Guyana Workers’ Union (UGWU) and the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA) said the industrial action will continue indefinitely until the Administration shows positive signs of addressing their demands.

On Wednesday, the Unions three-day strike came to an end with no response from the University’s Administration on the next date for negotiations.

Additionally, the Chief Labour Officer Charles Ogle did not respond to them on a possible intervention.

As a result, UGSSA and UGWU have decided that to “launch a full strike action, indefinitely.” UGSSA President, Dr Melissa Ifill explained to Guyana Times that workers operating under the Unions will not report to work until the Administration agrees to discuss increases in wages and salaries for both the supporting and academic staff of the University.

Dr Ifill stated that the continued strike action will

Members of UGSSA and UGWU at the entrance of the University

affect the staff tremendously as they have been operating without pay and may have to continue to do so for some weeks if nothing is done soon.

The UGSSA President disclosed that Unions have been soliciting donations from a number of businesses for “strike relief to tide over” the needs of Union members. She said recently food hampers were delivered to staffers who have persevered in the strike actions.

Also, in a release the UGSSA and UGWU Presidents disclosed that letters were sent to all commercial banks and credit institutions to buy time for members who may be in the

process of repaying loans and mortgages.

It was indicated that emphasis is being placed on lectures but not what goes into the lectures, the research to prepare the semester’s outline or the time it takes to prepare for a class.

Although some classes have resumed, the University’s Student Society (UGSS) has pledged its continuous support to the Unions.

But some students have condemned the move by the Unions, noting that the industrial action, if prolonged, will significantly affect the hundreds of students who are slated to graduate in November.

ohn Hercules appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on a simple larceny charge.

The charge alleged that Hercules, who is a vendor, stole one Vita Malt, and one cream soda amounting to $680. The Prosecution’s facts stated that the defendant went in to Shell Gas Station and consumed the

item and then attempted to exit the property without paying for them.

The matter was reported and he was arrested and charges for the offence. The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.

The court heard that Hercules was also charged with simple larceny two years ago. He has to repay the money and was sentenced to two years suspended sentence.

John Hercules

4 held for Essequibo robbery

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olice from G Division (Essequibo) are presently grilling four persons in connection with the robbery on Zorg businessman Asif Khan.

G Division Commander Kevin Adonis said, however, no one has been held accountable for the robbery committed on Khan, also called Hanif, to date. The Commander said once Police received information, they would act and persons were being called in for questioning.

Adonis said the case was a very serious one and called for thorough investigations.

He said Police will continue to hunt as well as use the evidence before them to find the perpetrators. He, however, noted that the businessman and his wife, Bibi Shaneeza Khan did not have any suspect in mind or could they identify any of the men’s voices.

Khan and his wife of 108 Zorg Village on the Essequibo Coast were beaten and robbed on Sunday

by four armed masked men at gunpoint. Khan also suffered chops to his head.

The bandits carted off some $250,000 in cash along with another $300,000 in jewellery and $60,000 in phone cards. Police recovered one of the masks at Khan’s residence. The bandits gained entry to the property from the back and then entered the home’s back door.

The four persons in custody continue to assist with investigations.

By Erica Williams

Jenifer Webster, who has showed significant interest in collaborating with his Ministry to address the problem.

“There are lots of things happening in this regard, it is just that it’s not seen, but things are happening,” the Minister said as he made reference to the Night Shelter located at East La Penitence which falls under the Human Services Ministry.

less they have been psychologically evaluated by a psychiatrist,” Minister Webster stated.

Ramsaran added that his Ministry was also looking at ways to address the issue of substance abuse, since substance abuse was found to be one of the contributing factors to insanity.

The Health Minister further added that his Ministry has also established relationships with the Non-Governmental Organisations such as the Salvation Army and Phoenix to better the situation.

Late last year, the Health Ministry had declared that it had decided to place more emphasis on mental health and suicide. The Ministry held a series of seminars to address the problem. During last year, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared that Guyana was found to be among the countries with the highest suicide rates in the world.

Subsequently, the Health Ministry embarked on a series of activities to help fight this potent problem. These activities were included under the prioritised issue of mental health in Guyana after Minister Ramsaran declared that mental health and suicide have “been on the back burner for a number of years.”

In September last, the Ministry stated that it was working on launching a Mental Health Council to assist in the fight against suicide. There were also a number of mental health walks and outreaches during the month of September.

Ministries working to rope in mentally ill destitute

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mid concerns about the increasing number of mentally unstable persons roaming the streets, the Ministries of Health and Human Services said that they were working on various initiatives to tackle the scourge.

The issue of persons with mental illnesses roaming the streets is not a new one and over the years, innocent citizens have been harmed by some of these persons who often brandish dangerous weapons during their sojourns across the city.

Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran on Tuesday said his Ministry and others were working to tackle the situation. The Minister explained to the Guyana Times that the issue was a complex social problem that has captured the attention of the Ministries of Human Services and Social Security, Health and Home Affairs.

He explained that the Ministry of Home Affairs was especially involved in this issue as officials attached to the Health Ministry were faced with the difficult task of apprehending mentally challenged persons who were also violent.

“From time to time when we come across these people, we collect them, but the problem becomes how do we catch these people? And in some cases, how do we contain the violent ones?” the minister said.

Minister Ramsaran disclosed that he has had an informal discussion with Human Services Minister

Shelter When contacted by this publication, Minister Webster said while her Ministry was actively involved in attempting to remove homeless persons from the streets, it did not have the jurisdiction or ability to treat the mentally challenged.

As such, “a lot of the homeless persons who are insane or who we may think are insane would come to the shelter to freshen up, have something to eat and then leave,” Minister Webster said.

This fact was also reiterated by Minister Ramsaran who added that these persons could be seen at the shelter in the evenings mainly. He further stated that the Human Services Ministry was presently seeking to expand the facilities of the shelter, “it is not a fivestar facility but the Ministry is working to expand the facilities,” he said.

Webster stated that the Health Ministry has to deal with the issue as it relates to the mentally unstable. “We cannot deal with them un-

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news

thursday, february 12, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Speaker flays lapse in set- 2 city businesses fined up of other rights bodies for littering

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Chairwoman of the Rights of the Child Commission Aleema Nasir, surrounded by other Commissioners, hands over 2012 annual report to Speaker of the National Assembly Raphael Trotman

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peaker of the National Assembly Raphael Trotman is urging that outstanding aspects of the 2001 Constitutional Reform process be deepened to strengthen the work of the Rights of the Child Commission (RCC).

According to the Speaker, the Constitution specifies that a Human Rights Commission and a Rights Tribunal be established, the existence of which he believes will give potency to the work of the RCC and its findings.

Trotman’s remarks were made as he received the 2012 Annual Report of the RCC during a brief ceremony at the Public Buildings on Wednesday. “These inexplicably, like so many vitally necessary institutions, have not been established,” he lamented.

Similarly, the Speaker opined that success of the motion challenging the constitutionality of the two term presidential limit could erode the gains and structures of the constitutional reform process. “This is something we must all guard against,” he emphasised.

The RCC is one of several Constitutional Rights

Commissions that were established at the conclusion of the reform, which included the term limits for Presidents. The others are the Human Rights, Women and Gender, Indigenous Peoples and the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC).

Meanwhile, Trotman informed that while National Assembly is “prorogued or suspended,” it still exists as an institution and commended on behalf of Members of Parliament the RCC for its “outstanding” work.

“I wish to laud the activism and statements of the Commission in the most recent intervention pertaining to the unmeritorious and unrighteous promotion of two Policemen who were involved in the horrific torturing of a young man, Mr Thomas, a few years ago,” he expressed.

Chairperson of the Commission, Aleema Nasir, in handing over the report, noted that it encapsulated the “endeavours and achievements of the Commission for the year 2012 in pursuit of the protection, education and empowerment of the children of Guyana.” She also not-

ed that of special prominence in this reporting period would be the launching of the Commission 20122016 strategic plan. This, she said, is a landmark document which guides the crafting of the annual work plans in the specified period.

Nasir revealed that in 2012, the RCC played a “pioneering role in the Juvenile Justice and Alternative Sentencing initiative,” which resulted in active work in the management of the New Opportunity Corp (NOC).

“The RCC has recommitted itself to work steadfastly with all stakeholders to craft a societal ethos where the rights and interests of all children are safeguarded,” the chairperson stated.

Established in 2001, the RCC in accordance with Article 212M, shall as soon as practicable, submit to the National Assembly an annual report of the activities of the previous year and that report shall be tabled within 30 days thereafter. Despite the fact that Parliament has been suspended, Trotman has committed to making available, copies of the report to all Members of Parliament.

Minibus Union’s arguments unacceptable - Ministry

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Derrick Cummings

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ermanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Derrick Cummings said the arguments put forth by the United Guyana Minibus Union defending their position on the

fare reductions are unacceptable and unconscionable.

Despite public pressure to lower their fares, the Union decided that it would be unreasonable to do so considering the other expenses they face such as high prices for spare parts.

However, Cummings said the pretext of expensive spare parts is unreasonable considering negotiations that occurred last year on the same basis.

He explained that after a formal request was submitted by the Union on the cost for spare parts, adjustments were made to the fee structures on Route 44, 31 and 32 buses.

As such, with a 30 per cent decline in fuel prices, Cummings believes the Union’s cries are erroneous and demonstrate no consideration for the traveling public.

According to the newly appointed PS, the Ministry is

considering to impose a 15-20 per cent fare reduction across the sector.

Moreover, he is questioning the legitimacy of the Union as a representative of the minibuses since several operators have lowered their prices.

“They only represent the minibus operators when they want an increase…,” Cummings suggested.

Consequently, officials from the Ministry will be visiting the various minibus zones to invite the bus operators to meet with them to have dialogue on the situation.

He also said that the Union would soon negotiate with the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry about the current situation, the challenges facing bus operators and the reasons it would be unfair for them to lower the fares.

n continuing its intensified drive to stamp out littering in the city, the Litter Enforcement Unit has issued fines to two business entities.

Wardens patrolling the Lombard Street area issued a fixed penalty fine of $15, 000 to the owner of B. Sooklall Enterprise located on High and Harrel Streets for construction waste carelessly discarded at the side of the premises.

Mahendra Jagbandhan of Pet Boy Liquor Store was also issued a fixed penalty of $15,000 after he accepted responsibility for instructing a vagrant (Roy Persaud)

to dispose of the business’ waste at the entrance of the La Penitence Market.

It is an offence under the Regulations to cause or knowingly permit another person to commit an offence under the Regulations, which includes depositing litter in a public place.

While efforts are on-going in the capital city, plans are on stream for the national rollout of the Litter Programme in Regions 3, 6, 7, and 10 in the first half of this year. This move will allow for wardens to be hired and operate within the various municipalities across the country to enforce the

Regulations.

The public is reminded that littering is a crime and is punishable by payment of fines from $50, 000 for individuals and $100,000 for businesses. Owners of public transportation are also advised that failure to provide a receptacle for litter disposal carries a fine of $15, 000.

Citizens are urged to report cases of littering and illegal dumping by calling the Litter Enforcement Unit’s hotline numbers: 600-0620, 225-5471-2, 2250506, or emailing to greenguyana@gmail.com.

edly fell asleep as she was driving to Georgetown at around 03:00h. She was immediately rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

When Guyana Times

contacted the hospital, it was reported that Henry was still being treated by doctors, who were unable to give an official pronouncement on her condition at the moment.

Car smashes into parked bus at Enmore

The mangled car driven by Henry

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woman is now hospitalized after the car she was driving collided with a parked minibus on Wednesday at the Enmore Public road.

Michelle Henry, report-

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guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, february 12, 2015

ARCHIE

Too much idle time will work against you. Concentrate (March 21- on your strengths, and work April 19) diligently to reach your goal.

No one will interfere with your plans if you are secretive.

ARIES

Don’t bring work home TAURUS with you. Clear your mind (April 20- and make your residence a May 20) place of peace and comfort.

Spending enjoyable quality time with your family will be the best stress reliever.

dilbert

You’ll have time to play afGEMINI (May 21- ter you take care of your reJune 20) sponsibilities. Whether you are at work or school, you should play by the rules and respect your superiors.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

Share your thoughts and plans for the future. Do whatever it takes to help you reach your goal. Putting in additional hours will leave a good impression.

Leave yourself time to LEO pursue a hobby or attend an (July 23event. Getting involved in a Aug. 22) risky venture is best avoided.

Emotional conflict will result in hurt feelings and alienation.

Calvin and Hobbes

Hold off making a decision VIRGO until you feel less emotional.

(Aug. 23You are not obligated to act Sept. 22) on the spur of the moment.

Take your time. If someone pressures you, walk away.

Don’t allow anyone to take LIBRA you for granted. You need (Sept. 23to take your responsibilities Oct. 23) seriously if you want to be known as a trustworthy, dedicated contributor.

SUDOKU

A partnership is apparent.

SCORPIO You have plenty to offer, and (Oct. 24your qualifications will guarNov. 22) antee that you reach your destination. Stick to your game plan, and don’t let anyone lead you astray.

It’s time to deal with unSAGITTARIUS finished business. A troubling (Nov. 23- personal situation will disapDec. 21) pear once you agree to compromise. Resist the urge to dominate, meddle or offer unsolicited advice.

Tuesday's solution

Don’t lend or borrow.

CAPRICORN Responsibly deal with any (Dec. 22- debt you’ve incurred. Walk Jan. 19) away from anyone who is trying to guilt you into contributing to a risky venture that you feel uncertain about.

AQUARIUS

You will have a hard time agreeing with others. Listen (Jan. 20- carefully and see if you can Feb. 19) reach an amicable compromise rather than try to get everyone to do things your way.

PISCES Your reputation will be (Feb. 20- questioned if you fail to honMarch 20) or a promise. Keep your word and be consistent. Trying to do too many things at once will be your downfall.

thursday, February 12, 2015

19

GVF to focus on developing CIBSS open windball female, schools volleyball season with win

G

uyana Volleyball Federation (GVF) President, Captain John Flores disclosed that the development of the sport among females and schools will be the Federation’s primary focus this year.

The announcement was made during the GVF first executive meeting held last Saturday at the Port Mourant Community Centre Ground, where several decisions were taken to move the sport forward.

Prior to the commencement of the meeting, the members inspected ongoing works being done on the construction of an outdoor court that was donated by the South American Volleyball Confederation (CSV) to the GVF. While several recommendations were made, the facility is scheduled to be up and ready before the month-end.

GVF Secretary Nicholas Fraser hands over the donation to Godwyn Allicock, a representative from BVA

Udhister Seelochan of Albion VC collects from GVF Treasurer Leota Langford

Mahesh Motiepersaud and Shauntel Maloney.

Medical/Legal – Arianne Mangar; Jason Johnny and others to be named.

T e c h n i c a l / Development – Nicholas Fraser (Chairman); Levi Nedd; Rashaad Razak; Odile Broomes; Marlon Pearson and Niketa Samaroo.

Disciplinary – President, Vice President and Presidents of the three associations (Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA); Demerara Volleyball Association (DVA) and Essequibo Volleyball Association (EVA) Media – Gregory Rambarran, Mark Bradford and Alana Bose.

After the conclusion of the meeting, three presentations were made. Mikasa balls and a net were presented to the Albion Volleyball Club; nets and Mikasa Kids balls were presented to the BVA for its Primary Schools “Cool Volley” Programme; and 330 balls and nets were donated to the BVA.

Meanwhile, the various committees were resuscitated.

The Committees formed are:

Selection – Levi Nedd (Chairman); Trevor Smith; Godwyn Allicock; Captain John Flores and Leota Langford.

Competitions – Mark Bradford (Chairman); Godwyn Allicock and Raymond Archer.

Finance – Leota Langford (Chairperson); Nicholas Fraser; Captain John Flores and Rashaad Razak.

Fundraising – Mark Bradford (Chairman); Alana Bose; Andrea Flores;

C

The winning CIBSS team

Gregory Rambarran of the BVA receiving from GVF President John Flores

amille’s Institute for Business and Science Studies (CIBSS) opened the 2015 windball cricket season with a win over rivals Friendship Secondary at the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry/National Sports Commission/AL Sport and Tour Promotions’ 23rd annual Easter Term Championship.

Playing at the Timehri

Red Ground on Saturday, CIBSS won the toss and inserted Friendship in to take first strike.

Friendship batted their way to 75 for 6, off the allotted 10 overs with Lorenzo O’Neil making 20 and Dhanpaul Bisoon 15.

Bowling for CIBSS, Deshawn Fernandes picked up 2 for 9 and Bhajnarine Singh 2 for 18.

In reply, CIBSS reached 76 for 5 off 6.3 overs, with Kevin Lawrence topscoring with 18.

Sunil Tulisdas picked up 2 for 2 bowling for Friendship.

Action in the tournament will continue with the female teams playing.

The tournament is being organised by Sport Officer Allister Munroe. (Andrew Carmichael)

BCB launches historic schools U-15 cricket tournament

By Rajiv Bisnauth

I

n a bid to revive secondary school cricket at the Under-15 level, the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) and an overseas-based Guyanese launched a historic partnership on Wednesday.

The tournament targets 30 secondary schools in Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), and is expected to commence in mid-March.

As the latest hope for the revitalisation of the game was launched in grand style, BCB President Anil Beharry believes that this is one of the best things that have happened to secondary school cricket in the County in a very long time.

“This initiative was part of the BCB new executives’ when we took office last month. We want to have cricket played at the schools level. So I believe that this is something tremendous that a bright future can be built upon,” adds Beharry.

He continued: “The nursery level is important so as to bring back interest to the youngsters and at the same time give the clubs an opportunity to do talent spotting. I believe that Berbice cricket is going to be even more successful, [given] the fact that more cricket is being played.”

Beharry, who replaced

Keith Foster when the BCB held its elections last month, trusts that more international players will be born out of this tournament, since according to him the school system in the past had produced outstanding cricketers.

He challenged the cricketers who will take part in the tournament to make their respective schools proud, and at the same time aim for personal goals.

Beharry thanked the sponsor for investing in such an important tournament that was missing for so many years.

He also thanked the Regional Education Department for their ready support.

Speaking on behalf of the sponsor, Deonarine Rambharose, a former resident of Cumberland Village, East Canje, Berbice, said tournaments of such nature create an opportunity for young aspiring cricketers to further develop their skills.

Rambharose added that he was always impressed with the work of the BCB, despite the limited resources.

He added that the BCB is the shining light in an otherwise chaotic situation in Guyana and West Indies cricket.

Also making brief remarks was Region Six Education Officer Volaika Jaikishun, who said that physical fitness increases mental alertness

and will surely help the children to be more successful academically.

She said the Education Ministry and the Regional Education Department will always support sports in schools since they helped with discipline and gave the students the opportunity to mix with others.

The tournament is divided into four Zones: East Bank/New Amsterdam/Canje, Lower Corentyne, Upper Corentyne, and West Berbice.

The participating schools are: Tutorial Secondary School, New Amsterdam Secondary School, Berbice Educational Institute, Vrymen’s Erven Secondary School, Berbice High School, Canje Secondary School, Lower Corentyne Secondary School, JC Chandisingh Secondary School, Corentyne Comprehensive, Port Mourant Secondary School, Manchester Secondary School, Skeldon High School, Central Corentyne Secondary School, Mibicuri Secondary School, Skeldon Linepath Secondary School, Tagore Memorial Secondary School, Rosignol, Number Eight Secondary School, Bush Lot Secondary School, Fort Wellington Secondary School, Belladrum Secondary School, Mahaicony Secondary School, and Woodley Park Secondary School.

20

guyanatimesGY.com

thursday, February 12, 2015

Clarke returns with 64 as Australia rout UAE M

ichael Clarke’s steady comeback from hamstring surgery continued at the MCG, where he made 64, then bowled and fielded effectively in Australia’s clinical victory over the UAE in their final World Cup warmup game. Clarke top-scored in Australia’s 304 for 8, with Aaron Finch and Steven Smith also scoring half-

on February 21 to prove he has returned to full fitness.

Australia’s coach Darren Lehmann was cagey when asked during Australia’s innings whether Clarke had any chance to play in their opening game against England on Saturday.

Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins did most of the damage to the UAE top order, but all eyes turned to

he did complete some quick singles and an all-run four.

David Warner was rested for this game, which allowed Clarke to open the batting with Finch, and they made a solid enough start.

There were a few nervy moments initially for Clarke, including an edge through the vacant gully region and a difficult chance at cover off the bowling of Mohammad

Glenn Maxwell takes an acrobatic catch to dismiss Shaiman Anwar, Australia v UAE

centuries, before the UAE batsmen struggled against Australia’s pace and were dismissed for 116.

It was an encouraging outcome for Clarke, who has been given a deadline of Australia’s second match against Bangladesh

Clarke when he sent down two uneventful overs off a few steps. It would still appear a significant gamble to rush Clarke back against England, and he did not appear to be pushing himself to 100% in his running between the wickets, although

Naveed that Amjad Ali could not grasp.

But in front of a small crowd of 3050, Clarke gradually found his touch, clipping Naveed through wide mid-on for a boundary and pulling him over mid-on for another four. He also loft-

ed effectively, although on 64 from 61 balls he miscued when he tried to work the offspinner Nasir Aziz through the leg side and a top edge landed safely in the hands of Shaiman Anwar at long-on.

Finch had brought up his fifty with a long six straight down the ground off the medium pace of Krishna Chandran, but on 61 from 68 balls he became the first man to fall when he lofted a catch to long-on from the bowling of Aziz. It became three consecutive long-on dismissals when Shane Watson also sent a catch there off Mohammad Tauqir for 34.

That brought Smith and George Bailey together and the difference in form was plain to see. Smith put the ball wherever he wanted, working the gaps as he has all summer. Bailey settled for picking up runs where he could, and spending time at the crease. Smith was eventually lbw for 59 from 50 balls when he tried to reverse sweep Aziz, who took 3 for 56.

Bailey battled on and picked up three fours and one six, but could not get to his half-century, caught at long-on for a run-a-ball 46 when he tried to muscle

Chandran down the ground.

It was the second wicket for Chandran, who had claimed Mitchell Marsh for 7 when a

top-edge was well taken by Tauqir, running back from mid-on. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD Australia innings (50 overs maximum) MJ Clarke* c Shaiman Anwar b Nasir Aziz 64 AJ Finch c Shaiman Anwar b Nasir Aziz 61 SR Watson c Berenger b Mohammad Tauqir 34 SPD Smith lbw b Nasir Aziz 59 GJ Bailey c Berenger b Krishna Chandran 46 MR Marsh c Mohammad Tauqir 7 b Krishna Chandran BJ Haddin† b Amjad Javed 5 GJ Maxwell c Berenger 7 b Krishna Chandran MG Johnson not out 12 PJ Cummins not out 1 Extras: (lb 5, w 2, nb 1) 8 Total:(8 wickets; 50 overs) 304 Did not bat: XJ Doherty, JR Hazlewood, JP Faulkner, MA Starc, DA Warner Fall of wickets 1-123, 2-136, 3-184, 4-251, 5-266, 6-284, 7-285, 8-293.

United Arab Emirates Bowling: Mohammad Naveed 8-155-0, Amjad Javed 8-1-421, Krishna Chandran 9-050-3, Nasir Aziz 10-0-56-3, Mohammad Tauqir 8-0-53-1, Khurram Khan 7-0-43-0.

United Arab Emirates innings (target: 305 runs

from 50 overs) Amjad Ali c Maxwell b Hazlewood 21 AR Berenger c †Haddin b Hazlewood 6 Krishna Chandran b Cummins 6 Khurram Khan c †Haddin b Cummins 4 SP Patil† c Watson b Johnson 31 Shaiman Anwar c Maxwell b Marsh 19 Rohan Mustafa st †Haddin b Maxwell 15 Saqlain Haider b Watson 0 Mohammad Naveed c Watson b Doherty 8 Amjad Javed not out 0 Mohammad Tauqir* c Watson 1 b Doherty Extras: (lb 1, w 4) 5 Total: (all out; 30.1 overs) 116 Did not bat: Nasir Aziz, AM Guruge, Kamran Shazad, Fahad Alhashmi.

Fall of wickets 1-19, 2-34, 3-40, 4-43, 5-70, 6-98, 7-99, 8-115, 9-115, 10-116.

Australia Bowling: MG Johnson 6-0-32-1, JR Hazlewood 4-012-2, PJ Cummins 4-0-212, GJ Maxwell 5-0-21-1, MR Marsh 4-0-13-1, MJ Clarke 2-0-5-0, SR Watson 4-1-81, XJ Doherty 1.1-0-3-2.

Misbah shines as Morgan stumbles again I

t was, in the end, a tale of two captains.

And while Pakistan’s Misbah-ul-Haq enjoyed the best of times, Eoin Morgan continues to endure the worst.

Misbah may never win over all his doubters. A nation that wants its cricketers to look like film stars and sound like rock stars may never entirely warm to his cautious words and dour voice. He could invent time travel and his critics would say Shahid Afridi would have done it quicker and with better hair.

But as a batsman and captain his record is exceptional.

After taking command of a disgraced team, he has rebuilt - despite many setbacks out of his control - and remained while others have fallen away. Here he proved, yet again, his worth with an innings of class, composure and skill that saw his depleted side gain a confidence-boosting win over an improving opposition. His willingness to embrace responsibility is what renders him a special player.

Misbah-ul-Haq anchored the chase with an unbeaten 91 from 99 balls

Encouragingly for Pakistan, Umar Akmal lent him mature support.

Moderating his undoubted talent with some of the calm of his captain, he helped Misbah add 133 runs in 22 overs for Pakistan’s fifth wicket in a stand that all but sealed the game.

Akmal’s talent has never been in doubt and if he can

learn to harness it like this, his side will have developed a world-class player.

When the pair game together, it seemed England had the game under control. Pakistan were 78 for 4 and almost half the overs had gone.

But Misbah had the chase under control from the start. Content to pat

back the good balls, he waited for the deliveries in his area and simply walloped them over the top. Both his sixes came when carting England’s offspinners over midwicket, while three of his five fours went in the same direction. It was not pretty, but it was hugely effective.

That Afridi, with a brace of boundaries, finished off the game just gave the large and good-humoured contingent of Pakistan supporters more cause for joy.

This was not a completely assured performance, though. While their relatively inexperienced bowling attack looks pretty well equipped to cope with the challenges ahead, the top-order batting retains a brittle look. Here Nasir Jamshed and Ahmad Shehzad paid for a lack of foot movement and Younis Khan, frustrated by his slow progress, snatched at a hook and top-edged a catch to long leg, where Gary Ballance took the first of two perfectly judged catches.

Pakistan’s ability to de-

velop bowlers is remarkable, though. Sohail Khan and Ehsan Adil, with just nine ODIs between them, hit the pitch hard and, in Sohail’s case, produced a

perfect yorker to account for Jos Buttler, while Yasir Shah continued England’s struggles against legspin; his googly was too good for Ravi Bopara. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

England innings (50 overs maximum) MM Ali c Younis Khan b Ehsan Adil 4 AD Hales c Sohaib Maqsood b Shahid Afridi 31 GS Ballance c Sohaib Maqsood b Yasir Shah 57 JE Root c Ehsan Adil b Sohail Khan 85 EJG Morgan* c Younis Khan 0 b Yasir Shah RS Bopara b Yasir Shah 11 JC Buttler† b Sohail Khan 13 CJ Jordan not out 31 SCJ Broad c Misbah-ul-Haq b Wahab Riaz 0 JC Tredwell not out 1 Extras: (lb 5, w 12) 17 Total:(8 wickets; 50 overs) 250 Did not bat: JM Anderson, JWA Taylor Fall of wickets 1-5, 2-69, 3-135, 4-135, 5-157, 6-184, 7-244, 8-246.

Pakistan Bowling: Sohail Khan 9-1-47-2, Ehsan Adil 7-1-27-1, Wahab Riaz 100-46-1, Shahid Afridi 10-0-

59-1, Haris Sohail 4-0-21-0, Yasir Shah 10-1-45-3.

Pakistan innings (target: 251 runs from 50 overs) Nasir Jamshed c Tredwell 1 b Broad Ahmed Shehzad c Tredwell b Anderson 2 Younis Khan c Ballance b Jordan 19 Haris Sohail c Ballance b Tredwell 33 Misbah-ul-Haq* not out 91 Umar Akmal† c †Buttler 65 b Broad Sohaib Maqsood c †Buttler b Anderson 20 Shahid Afridi not out 8 Extras: (b 1, lb 3, w 8, nb 1) 13 Total:(6 wickets; 48.5 overs)252 Did not bat: Wahab Riaz, Yasir Shah, Ehsan Adil, Sohail Khan.

Fall of wickets: 1-2, 2-10, 3-43, 4-78, 5-211, 6-243.

England Bowling: JM Anderson 10-0-42-2, SCJ Broad 9.50-51-2, CJ Jordan 9-0-51-1, JC Tredwell 9-0-43-1, MM Ali 8-0-44-0, RS Bopara 2-014-0, JE Root 1-0-3-0.

SPORTS

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BCB/NBS Over-40 Second-Division Tournament...

thursday, February 12, 2015

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New Building Society Limited Rose Hall Branch Manager Rana Persaud hands over the sponsorship cheque to BCB Secretary Angela Haniff in the presence of BCB Competitions Committee Chairman Carl Moore and NBS staff members

By Rajiv Bisnauth

C

lose to 100 teams are expected to participate in Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)/New Building Society Limited Over-40 Second-Division Tournament, which is expected to commence shortly in the Ancient County.

The outstanding relationship between the BCB and its many sponsors continued on Wednesday last when the NBS renewed its sponsorship with the Board.

At the presentation ceremony held at NBS’ New Amsterdam Branch, BCB Competitions Committee Chairman Carl Moore applauded the bank for continuing its investment in the sport, stating that it was another giant step in the development of cricket in the Ancient County.

The Second-Division

Tournament, he said, is by far the largest organised by the Board as almost every village and township takes part since it provides the avenue for young players to rub shoulders with some veteran players who still play at the level.

“Teams are drawn from all geographic areas in the Ancient County. It brings the entire family out on Sundays in a picnic atmosphere. It helps to keep the village cricket alive and the grounds in good condition so that people of all ages can use the facilities to play and exercise, helping a healthy lifestyle,” Moore concluded.

Speaking on behalf of NBS, Manager of the Rose Hall Branch, Rana Persaud expressed delight at the continued involvement of the bank in Berbice cricket. He said that the New Building Society is proud to

be associated with Berbice cricket.

“The company is always aware of its role in the development of the communities and by sponsoring this important competition, it’s an ideal way of giving back to the County,” Persaud pointed out.

BCB President Anil Beharry thanked NBS for its trust and confidence shown in the work of the Board. He also thanked Moore and his committee for doing a fantastic job in organising such a huge competition.

He expressed hope that the tournament would produce new talent for Berbice as it has done in the past.

The BCB is encouraging all Second-Division clubs in Berbice to fill out the forms sent to them by the Board or call the office on 3332375 for more information.

Development meet set for Sunday T

he Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) will host its second development meet of 2015 on Sunday at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Ground.

The event will be simi-

lar to the first meet, with a number of odd events instead of the standard events of a regular meet.

While some of Guyana’s top athletes did not compete at the first meet, a few of the top juniors have confirmed

their participation in the event to set up some intriguing match-ups.

The AAG chose to go with the odd events again based on the wishes of the coaches according to AAG President Aubrey Hutson.

Georgetown cop DCB U-15 title G eorgetown defeated West Demerara by a massive margin of 221 runs to capture the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) Inter association round robin U-15 50-over title on Wednesday at Everest Cricket Club.

Georgetown rattled up 275-9 with Alphuis Bookie scoring 79 and Ashmead Nedd stuck 67.

Bookie slammed nine fours off 86 balls, while Nedd faced 75 balls and hit six fours and one six.

Parmand Gootipersaud grabbed 5-29 from 10 overs, while Sachin Basdeo snared 2-27.

West Demerara never threatened and were sent packing for 54 in 31.2 overs including 26 extras, in reply. Aftab Basheer

made 20. Off spinner Andrew Persaud grabbed 3-11 off five overs, including a hat-trick, while Jospice Jones claimed 3-14.

At Demerara Cricket Club, East Coast defeated East Bank by 130 runs. East Coast took first strike and posted 239-4 in 50 overs. East Bank were routed for 109 in response.

22 Anamayah Memorial basketball tournament...

Wilson confident Police Hopetown dispose will do well in 2015 guyanatimesGY.com

thurSday, February 12, 2015

By Treiston Joseph

A

rguably one of Guyana’s most successful coaches, Lyndon Wilson is confident that his Police Sports Club will do well in 2015.

Winston George who has his sights set on not just the World Championships but also qualifying for the Olympics.

“Well, we are looking to get George to qualify for the World Games so he has to run 46.1s thereabout, and he is looking good at the moment, but we are not just focused on that; we also hope that once he qualifies, he can qualify for the Olympics at the World Games, so we are focused on that right,” Wilson mentioned.

Lyndon Wilson

The Olympic Coach, in a telephone interview, stressed that the aim of the Club is to “better” their performance.

“We had a good year last year with some exceptional performances, but what we really want to do is better our ... performance as a club,” Wilson told Guyana Times Sport.

Further, Wilson highlighted some of Police’s top athletes to look out for this year and it all starts with Olympian

Winston George

Wilson also mentioned athletes such as Kevin Bayley and Tiffany Carto who are preparing for the upcoming season as athletes to watch for.

of Ithaca 49-19

Tevin Garraway

Identifying his juniors, Wilson had big praise for speedster Tevin Garraway, but highlighted that his female sprinter Onica Eastman needed more work to get to the point they want her to achieve.

When it comes to the overall preparation of the Club, Wilson said they were now entering preseason mode.

However, Wilson hopes to bolster the female category in 2015, “Our female category is not strong as before and one of the things we want to do is to enhance our female category this year, but overall I think we have a good pool of youngsters that can take over from the seniors when that time comes,’ Wilson noted.

Some of the action during the game

N

ewcomers Hopetown Basketball Club have put an end to Ithaca Hardliners’ participation in the second annual Anamayah Memorial Basketball Tournament with a 49-19 win at the Ithaca court on Sunday.

Despite home support, Ithaca never made a game of the proceedings and were down 15-6 at the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter was more evenly contested with both teams finding it difficult to score as the first half ended with a 20-10 score line.

The third quarter was similar to the second, but in the final session Hopetown

completely dominated the game only allowing Ithaca to score four points while registering 23 in the period.

Jarral Allen had a game-high 15 points while Shurland Gillis scored 10 points for Hopetown.

The top scorers for Ithaca were Phillip Edwards and Deon Clements with five points each.

Hopetown have now advanced to the knockout stage of the competition and will face Fyrish Black Sharks to determine the winners of group B. The Black Sharks had earlier disposed of the Hardliners 47-49.

Meanwhile, action continues in Group A on Sunday when Rose Hall Jammers

take on Canje Knights at the Area H Ground in Rose Hall. Canje have already suffered a 40-36 loss at the hands of Smithfield Rockers.

The tournament, which is being organised by Vibert Garnette, is being played on a round-robin basis, with three teams in each of the two groups. The defending champions New Amsterdam Warriors have automatically drawn a bye into the knockout round.

At stake in the competition are cash and other incentives for the winning and runner-up teams.

Sunday’s game is scheduled to start at 16:00h. (Andrew Carmichael)

Winston Benons appointed EBFA’s Technical Adviser

C

oming off a successful 2014, the executive of the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) is on a path of going a step further this year. To attain a greater level of consistency in the technical and tactical realms of the sport, the EBFA has appointed Winston Benons as its Technical Adviser.

Benons, who was appointed National Assistant Coach by the Guyana Football Federation in 2012, having coached the EBFA Under-17 team that year, said he was very pleased to have been approached to assist with the development of the game in the Association.

The Yarrowkabra and US resident has been a licensed coach of the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) since 1986 and also has received an National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) National Diploma (1986).

Benons has been extensively trained in the Philosophies and Principles of Coach Theory and Techniques, Child Abuse Recognition, as

Winston Benons

well as First Aid. In terms of his experience, he has coached junior and men’s teams in Brooklyn, New York between 1972 and 1981. He was also Travel Team Coach of the Rockets and Raiders Travel Team between 1985 and 1990.

For dedicated service in coaching, Benons was recognised by the Long Island Junior Soccer League for his service to Elmont in 1990, while from 1983 to 1993, he was a member of the Elmont

Soccer League Board with responsibility for Player Development, Fund Raising and Social Activities.

Commenting on his appointment, Benons stated that he was excited to make a contribution to the East Bank’s and by extension, Guyana’s football, noting that he has seen many talented players, having held the post of Coach of the Yarrowkabra Football Club from 2005 to 2008.

Already in work mode, Benons will host an introductory session with all club coaches on Sunday at the Grove Community Centre, beginning at 13:00h. The compulsory interactive session will see the Technical Adviser sharing his vision for East Bank’s development with the coaches.

Meanwhile, the EBFA Pee Wee Under-11 League will continue on Saturday at the Grove Playfield.

Grove Hi-Tech, Craig Primary, Diamond United, Herstelling Raiders, and Agricola Red Triangle are the competing teams.

guyanatimesGY.com

thursday, February 12, 2015

23

Nascimento preaches fitness at ruggers’ training

By Avenash Ramzan

T

he national Men’s rugby squad is intensifying preparations for participation in several major tournaments this year, but Patron of the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU), Christopher “Kit”

Christopher “Kit” Nascimento

Nascimento believes the players have a far way to go in terms of getting in peak condition for high-quality competition.

The ruggers are currently whipping themselves into shape for a successful defence of the Sevens and 15s titles they won last year in a clean sweep of the North American Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) Championships.

By winning the NACRA Sevens, the national Men’s team are now at the begin-

ning of a pathway to greater things like attendance at the Pan Am Games next year and possible qualification for the 2016 Olympics in Rio, Brazil. The team have also qualified to attend the Hong Kong Sevens next month.

Nascimento said the players had “improved substantially in the past two weeks”, but noted that they were “only halfway there” with regard to their preparations and fitness. At the conclusion of a Beep Test on Tuesday afternoon at the National Park Rugby Field, the squad had an average of 12.9 per player.

“We want to put a team on the Park that is averaging 14 and we can do it; we definitely can do it. We just have to work a little harder,” Nascimento said.

He added, “You can’t do it on the official practice session and the game session, it won’t get you there fast enough, so those of you who are really determined to make that team, remember no one is picked, no one is selected, no one is guaranteed a place.”

Nascimento reminded the players of the numerous opportunities that would be available for selection during the year, with Guyana set to attend several competitions.

He urged the players to fight hard for the spots that would be up for grabs.

Culture change...

from back page

“I believe that changing the constitution and the culture of the board is very important if we're going to be able to make any progress with the governance of our game. So many people have made reference to the Patterson and Wilkins report that I won't go over that ground again. But everyone ought to see that something has to be done.”

Holding referred to the recently-abandoned tour of India as a “fresh” example of the problems facing West Indies cricket. He also alluded to the WICB’s management of that saga, even after a Task Force had found the Board partly to be blamed for the tour being cut short.

“The WICB is answerable to no one at the moment. It does as it likes, with no accountability, as it has done over the years. This recent problem in India is fresh in the mind. The WICB's own Task Force found it guilty of being part of the problem that caused the abandonment of the tour. What has happened? What have the repercussions been? So far nothing,” the former cricketer, who has become one of the game’s most candid commentators, posited.

Checks and balances

“How can any organisation operate effectively if there are no checks and bal-

ances, no repercussions for bad management? All the WICB does is take it out on those it has power over – the players.”

The Jamaican, who took 249 wickets in 60 Tests, also took a swipe at the selection panel, which is currently led by a former captain of his, Clive Lloyd.

“Just today [earlier in the week], the current captain [Jason Holder], in an interview in Australia leading up to the World Cup, has said the West Indies team is weaker without Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard, but he is not a selector and so has no control. What does it say when the Chairman of Selectors and the WICB keep saying that the team was selected on merit?

Again, I leave it to the public to decide,” Holding concluded.

The upcoming elections are shaping up to be a keen tussle between Cameron and Garner and a major high point of the WICB’s Annual General Meeting.

Guyana, the Leeward Islands and the Windward Islands have already declared their support for Cameron’s re-election, while Garner appears to be receiving the backing of Jamaica, as well as Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago. Each of the six WICB associations is entitled to two votes each.

The national rugby players pose with the NACRA 15s title

“So, there are a lot of opportunities; a lot of national pride at stake and a lot of personal pride at stake. I’m

very happy to see you guys are committed, you’re coming out, but you have to put in some extra time, in the

evenings and the mornings,” the former GRFU President suggested.

Nascimento said the

GRFU will place added emphasis on the fitness of the players as a key criterion for selection.

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

thursday, February 12, 2015

WICB’s management of cricket...

Culture change needed, says Holding

WI batsman named in ‘revenge porn’ case

By Avenash Ramzan

A

culture change is what is needed to lift West Indies out of the leadership quandary that the Region’s game has found itself. This is the view of legendary fast bowler Michael Holding, who shared those sentiments in a column published on ESPNCricinfo earlier this week.

Holding’s assertion comes weeks ahead of the highly-anticipated Annual General Meeting of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) on March 7, when the position of President will be contested by two candidates.

The WICB confirmed on Tuesday last that the incumbent Dave Cameron

Michael Holding

Dave Cameron

Joel Garner

will be challenged by Holding’s former teammate and Barbados Cricket Association head, Joel Garner, while Vice President Emmanuel Nanthan is being challenged by Trinidad and

Tobago Cricket Board Director Baldath Mahabir.

Holding pointed out that whoever heads the regional governing body after the elections, the focus should be on making changes to the constitu-

tion and the culture of the Board.

“I am looking beyond whoever gets to be the next President of the WICB,” Holding, who turns 61 on February 16, said. turn to page 23

BCB launches historic schools U-15 cricket tournament Page 19

Deonarine Rambharose hands over the sponsorship cheque to BCB President Anil Beharry in the presence of BCB Secretary Angela Haniff, BCB Chairman of Competitions, Carl Moore and Region Six Education Officer Volaika Jaikishun

W

Lendl Simmons

est Indies and Trinidad & Tobago batsman Lendl Simmons has found himself the subject of a historic ‘revenge porn’ case, the likes of which has never been litigated in Trinidad before.

Simmons, 30, is the defendant in a case brought

by Therese Ho, who alleges that after a brief sexual relationship with the batsman, which ended when she learned that he was engaged to be married, Simmons released intimate photos of her, taken ‘without her permission’, via social media and instant messaging networks.

It is reported that teammates Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard were amongst those who received the photos from Simmons, and the two are being summoned as witnesses for the plaintiff.

It is believed that Simmons disseminated the photos as an act of revenge after Ho called his fiancée to inform her of her and

Simmons’ relationship.

On June 5, 2014, Ho successfully filed an injunction against Simmons to prevent him from sharing the photos further. The details of the case were sealed until recently, when it was decided that it would go to trial on March 23, presided over

by High Court Judge Frank Seepersad.

Simmons is not denying sharing the photos, but rather, stating that due to the nature of their relationship, he did not feel that he owed her any confidentiality.

‘Revenge porn’ is defined as the distribution of a sexual image of someone without their permission and with the intent to cause them distress. There are currently no laws in Trinidad and Tobago which govern this nature of complaint. It is believed that this case will set the precedent moving forward for cases regarding dissemination of media over social media and instant messaging platforms. (Digicel SportsMax)

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