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New UG Vice Chancellor calls on President P17

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 2869

Saturday, May 28, 2016

PRICE

After one year in office

Govt unclear about vision for Guyana – Dr Hinds

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Guyanese P3 man wanted for Suriname double murder

Page 3

Bandits storm Canjie businessman's home

ECD joiner dies after crashing into parked vehicle Page 7

Page 9

Bagotstown accident

Minibus P8 drivers slapped with causing death charge

Norton lambastes management of Diamond Hospital P10

Bundles of joy on Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary: These smiling mothers delivered their healthy bouncing babies at the Georgetown Public and Suddie hospitals as Guyanese celebrated the country’s Golden Jubilee on May 26, 2016 (See stories on pages 10 and 17)

Shortage of drugs, doctors, nurses highlighted during visit

OLPF forensic audit

$306M in laptops missing, damagedz Page 9

Opposition walkout

Minister Henry apologises but quibble on details Page 7

... Opposition Leader says explanation “nonsensical”

GPSU lashes back at P2 President over "lazy worker" threat Residents P16 complain of deplorable Diamond roads

2 news

saturDAY, may 28, 2016 | guyana-times.com

GPSU lashes back at President $57M “emergency” works over “lazy worker” threat awarded without Region

T

he Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) said it has noted with a mixture of “puzzlement and surprise”, comments attributed to President David Granger recently and which were directed to public servants, upon his receipt of the final report into the public service.

The President had warned persons working in the Public Sector against developing traits and practices that could prevent them from rising to the challenge and performing exceptionally, maintaining that “if they want to be lazy, they will get a lazy person’s remuneration.”

However, the GPSU through its Executive Assistant Indira Thakurdin on Thursday said it is a firm believer in the principle that reward, in whatever field of endeavour, should be associated with effort. It added that with regard to public servants as a whole, this category of workers is richly deserving of far greater reward than they receive at this time.

“We humbly submit too that the phenomenon of unequal effort amongst various

GPSU President Patrick Yarde

workers is not unique to the public service. Indeed, it has been our experience that that deficiency is also to be found in other critical areas of public service where the transgression never seems to attract threats of remuneration commensurate with effort.”

It said what, in the instance of the public service, might be construed as “laziness” may well, in effect, and insofar as it exists, be consequences of a protracted experience of being under-resourced and inadequately incentivised.

“Indeed, we believe that some of the findings of the recently concluded report of the

President David Granger

Commission of Inquiry into the Public Service bear out our position nor can the Union pretend to be unaware of the nexus between the timing of His Excellency’s comment and what, we hope, is the imminent announcement of a date for the commencement of negotiations on wages and salaries.”

The Union said it hopes that while that may not be the substantive intention, the President’s comments do not, inadvertently, serve to guide or prejudice the focus and direction of the forthcoming engagement on wages and salaries.

During brief remarks following the receipt of the report, President Granger said

that those in the Public Sector needed to become aware of the importance of their roles to the people they serve, noting that any laid back attitude will attract a matching pay.

“Many people expect that there is going to be some bonanza. I hope they will discover that the bonanza will come from their own efforts. The bonanza will come when they work hard and do better than the next person. If they work hard they will be rewarded for their hard work. This is what people in every area of endeavour must learn, that actual output is related to input,” the Head of State remarked A three-member panel headed by Professor Harold Lutchman was charged with investigating, reporting on, and making recommendations on the role, functions, recruitment process, remuneration and conditions of service for public servants.

The Commission was also expected to determine measures to improve the efficiency of the public service. It was also expected to have a detailed examination of how salaries and wages are determined and allocated.

6 administration’s input – REO says work “lousy”

Region Six REO Veerasammy Ramayya

Region Six Chairman David Armogan

hairman of Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) Regional Democratic Council (RDC), David Armogan feels the region was disrespected as no information was given to him as it relates to the cleaning of the roads in Berbice.

Region Six Councillor, Haseef Yusuf, had recently shed light on the issue when he criticised the three contracts which were awarded to clean the roadways from New Amsterdam to Moleson Creek, to the tune of $57 million. His contention was that instead of being listed and an “emergency” cleaning which it was not, the programme should have been outlined in the 2016 Budget, so that “there should have been more than enough time to tender this work to get a competitive bid and to afford transparency.”

“If one is to look at the roadside it will defy a microscopic investigation to see where the $57 million went!

The roadsides appear as normal-bushy, dirty and drains clogged and teeming with garbage. Only an infinitesimal amount of work was done in and around New Amsterdam, the approach to Berbice Bridge, and some hop scotched areas,” he said.

According to Armogan, “nobody has informed us about anything, I mean this is disrespectful to come into the region and start work and don’t tell us anything and I don’t think this is good enough. In the past, whenever work is done in the region, Government Ministries would inform us what they were doing and we would also be able to supervise the work in this case we do not know what the work entails, we don’t know the scope of the work, I am only told through the grape vines there is a cost of 57 million dollars. This project never came to us, it was never discussed and my senior engineer doesn’t know either,” Armogan reiterated.

Region Six Regional Executive Officer (REO), Veerasammy Ramayya was also unaware of the works being done on the roads, having only learnt of the project after he expressed his dissatisfaction with the works done a few days ago. Ramayya said “no one told me about the works for the roadways and the region does not do drain-

age and irrigation works for that amount without passing through the channels in Region Four.”

The RDC Chairman went on to express his disgust in the work that was put out for the money.

“When I look there, I’m wondering what they are paying for cause all the guy is doing is scooping up some grass on the road side which we have been doing from time to time. I don’t know what this big 57 million dollars expenditure is about, especially when we were not consulted,” Armogan stated.

Ramayya again shared the same sentiments which resulted in him finding out about the contract.

“Previously, we had discussions when they were cleaning Georgetown and they would be extending that to include Berbice but I only received the contract last week after the works had been done. It was a lousy job and I questioned it and a contractor from Berbice brought it to me showing me an estimate” said Ramayya.

Both Armogan and Ramayya questioned why these contracts were issued as “emergency”.

According to Armogan, “It can’t be an emergency project because I don’t see what the emergency to clear grass on the roadside is, it isn’t blocking any trench or preventing irrigation.”

Ramayya posited “I don’t see why cleaning the roads in an emergency.”

Meanwhile, shadow Public Infrastructure Minister Juan Edghill in an invited comment highlighted that in order for a contract of that magnitude to be awarded, it would have had to be passed through the Tender Board and then through Cabinet without objections unless the procedure has changed.

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson when contacted also spoke on the issue but stated that he is not in connection with this contract and the works done in Berbice.

Attempts to get on to Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan to see whether the contracts were issued under his remit were unsuccessful. Armogan has since made it clear that an investigation is needed into this matter.

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news

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saturDAY, may 28, 2016 | guyana-times.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, May 28 – 09:30h-11:00h and Sunday, May 29 – 10:30h-12:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, May 28 – 08:35h-10:05h and Sunday, May 29 – 09:45h-11:15h

After 1 year in office

Govt unclear about vision for Guyana – Hinds

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FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Light to heavy rain showers can be expected throughout the day, while cloud cover with the possibility of light rain showers can be expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly between 2.68 metres per second and 4.02 metres per second.

High Tide: 08:56h and 21:39h reaching maximum heights of 2.41 metres and 2.33 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 02:26h and 15:03h reaching minimum heights of 0.90 metre and 0.80 metre respectively.

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

fter a year in Government, the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government seems not to be very clear about its vision and plans for the wellbeing of the country.

Political commentator, Dr David Hinds told Guyana Times that while it was not expected that the new Government would do “very big things” during its first year in office, one would expect that there should have been some indication of “intent”.

Hinds was speaking to this publication on Wednesday, where he added his voice to the many critiques already made of the Administration’s performance during its first year in office.

“I think in many regards, they might have fallen short in terms of signalling to the society, what they intend to do,” Hinds told this newspaper.

He said the problem may have arisen because of the fact that the Government is a coalition, and it might have been a little difficult to

the circumstantial evidence at their disposal.

They have confirmed that contact was made with Guyana Police Force as law enforcement continues its search for the alleged murderer. The woman and her daughter were on Tuesday last found dead in their apartment in the Nieuw Amsterdam, a village in District Commewijne, Suriname. The duo hailed

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commentator, some credit must be given to Government for completing some basic projects; however, more could have been done.

“We’re talking that they have cleaned up the country, cleaned up the city. They have delivered services and have staved off the challenge of Venezuela and generally there is some sort of political stability that has returned to Guyana... I think there has been a toning down of the political temperature”.

Wages and salaries

He said however, that Government has not been forthcoming with its plans for various projects and promises made. One such is the promise of increases in wages and salaries for public servants. He said it is very worrying that after one year, there is no clarity about workers’ salaries and what raises they will get. He said this is something that should have been known within the first year of Government.

Crime

Addressing the issue of crime, Hinds said, while the Guyana Police Force has

Dr David Hinds

made some recent headway in solving some cold cases, Guyanese generally are still fearful of the situation.

He said while crime was inherited from the previous Administration, after a year, one cannot blame the other side for responsibility.

He noted that while he applauds the tremendous initiatives taken to address the issue, the “fear of the criminal still stalks the land, because, while there are those who can defend themselves, there are still those who cannot. Consideration must be given to them,” he said.

Guyanese man wanted for Suriname double murder

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get all the factions together, “but at the end of one year, one would expect that after a year, there would have been a larger vision.”

“That for me is important.

If I am making an indictment, or criticism, it is the fact there is no sense of the overall vision of where they want to take the country.

That is something that needs to be challenged very soon.”

According to Hinds, it is a known fact that the first 12 months of any new Government would be difficult.

“This Government is coming into office after 23 years of rule by the other Government. So you’re talking about finding your feet and getting accustomed to Government. They are also coming to government with a lot of expectations and rightfully so, in 1992, after 28 years of the [People’s National Congress] PNC rule, they were coming to Government with the expectation of what the PPP would do. So after 23 years, there are also massive expectations of what this Government should do,” Hinds said.

According to the political

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Wanted: Bisoen Kevin

aw enforcement officers in Suriname have issued a wanted bulletin for Bisoen Kevin, 22, for questioning in relation to the murder of Leelawattie Sookhoo and her daughter, Tisha Ahiram.

Guyana Times understands that the man has gone into hiding following the discovery of the 37-yearold woman and her 10-yearold daughter’s bodies on Tuesday. It is believed the man might have absconded to Guyana after he committed the gruesome acts.

According to reports, Kevin and the now dead woman shared a rocky relationship up to the time of her demise. Only recently, he had accused her of being unfaithful. This publication was told the man became jealous after the woman’s former husband visited her recently.

Based on information, the now dead woman was seen in the company of the murder suspect the night before the murder.

The Surinamese Police had issued the wanted bulletin after taking into consideration

from Sparta Village, Essequibo Coast, Guyana.

Their bodies were discovered when police turned up at the woman’s house after her boyfriend, who was supposed to be at work did not show up.

When the Police arrived at the house to check for the man, they found the front door locked with a padlock and thought something was amiss.

They subsequently broke the padlock and entered only to find the woman lying on the ground with a cord around her neck while the child was on the bed in a seminude state.

Guyana Times understands that the area in which the woman lived with her children is known as a fishing area where a lot of Guyanese reside. (Bhisham

Mohamed)

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guyana-times.com

saturdAY, may 28, 2016

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

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

Editorial

Justifiable criticisms

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uite recently, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo took the Granger-led coalition Government to task challenging it to carry out an audit regarding the circumstances under which a number of Public Sector officials had their services terminated since the Administration took office in May 2015 to present.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has long held the view that the majority of dismissals over the past year or so was based on political and racial persuasions and the Party has been very vocal in expressing such a view. Several other Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and political commentators had also expressed similar views; however, officials would simply brush aside the criticisms without giving them the serious response they deserve.

At a recent press conference hosted by the Opposition Leader, Jagdeo pointed to several persons who were dismissed or forced to resign due to what he claimed to be on the basis of their party affiliation and/or racial grounds. He went as far as saying that there is enough evidence to substantiate what the Party is saying as there are quite a number of actual cases to prove this assertion.

Citing one of the most glaring cases, Jagdeo made reference to the situation at the New York City (NYC) Consulate where it is being alleged that five employees, including one officer with more than 40 years of experience in the Foreign Service, were fired without any justifiable reasons.

Political commentators had pointed to many other cases where persons were forced to resign or dismissed without observance of natural justice or due process. They had also pointed out that these officials were being replaced by party loyalists.

It could be recalled that throughout the elections campaign, there were promises that an A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government will seek to govern in the interest of everyone and they will bring a new, modern and transparent approach to governance.

More particularly, President David Granger himself had said that there would be no “witchhunting” of public service employees. However, many stakeholders believe that the style of governance being witnessed now is far from what was expected.

Of course there were cases of officers openly supporting and campaigning for a particular political party, whether it was in the general or Local Government Elections, and it is only fair that these officers tender their resignation. Our concerns, and that of other stakeholders, including the Opposition, are really about those persons who are being victimised, not because of their inability to function in their field, but mainly because of their perceived political affiliation.

It is indeed quite unfortunate that the Administration in its early stages of governance is being faced with such criticisms as it could be recalled that some of these same accusations were levelled against the PPP/C Administration by the APNU/ AFC while the latter were in Opposition. One would think that any serious Government that wants to break from the past, would implement certain policies and take certain action which could stand public scrutiny.

Further, there are also claims being made of a lack of ethnic balance in the appointments that have been made by the Government thus far. While it is the Government’s sole prerogative to appoint persons of its choice, we believe that ethnic sensitivities cannot be ignored. Guyana is a multiethnic country, and the Government must show that it is really serious about having all the various groups being adequately represented at the various levels of governance.

In essence, everyone must feel that they have a fair chance of benefiting from the opportunities our country offers.

Everyone must feel that they have a place in the Guyanese society and they have an equal chance of being employed and to serve in a field of their choice once they have the necessary expertise etc.

The criticisms being made by Jagdeo and others cannot be treated lightly. Perhaps it would be in the Government’s own interest to prove to the nation, particular its critics, that it is serious about inclusivity and building a cohesive society, by taking up the challenge and conduct a general review of the entire situation as it relates to the persons who were dismissed since the administration took office. And if it is found that officials erred, it should be corrected forthwith.

President David Granger on Friday received a sword from the National Trust of Guyana that once belonged to the late Rupert Berchmans Craig; one of the country’s earliest engineers in whose honour the Rupert Craig Highway was named. The Head of State holds the weapon closer to the light to examine its condition. The sword was used by Craig in the first World War, during which he served as an officer in the West India Regiment of the British Army. It was manufactured 1827

Canadian PM apologises to Indo-Canadians

Dear Editor, On May 20, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau apologised in the Canadian House of Commons (Parliament) to India and Indo-Canadians for his country’s refusal to admit people of Indian descent into Canada some 112 years ago.

It was referred to as the Komagata Maru incident – the ship carrying Indians from Hong Kong to British Columbia where it was denied docking forcing the passengers to live aboard under treacherous conditions and then returned to Calcutta, India, with the Indians aboard.

The PM told parliament: “I rise in this House to offer an apology on behalf of the Government of Canada for our role in the Komagata Maru incident”. He described the incident as “a great injustice” against people of Indian descent.

A report in an Indian me-

dium noted this was the second time a Canadian Prime Minister apologised for the black mark in the history of Indo-Canadian immigration.

Also, over the last several decades, the Canadian government took steps to right the wrongs committed during the Komagata Maru fiasco.

As recorded in history, Gurdit Singh, an IndoCanadian immigration pioneer, chartered the Japanese steamship SS Komagata Maru to take people from India to Canada. The Indians first made their way to Hong Kong with 165 Indians aboard and from there to Shanghai and Yokohama, Japan, where additional passengers joined the journey.

The ship arrived on the shores of British Columbia after some 40 days.

But Canada refused the ship permission to dock and the passengers were detained on board for two months waiting a resolution from nego-

tiations between British and Canadian authorities.

Non-Indians were off loaded and “the dreams of the rest of the asylum-seekers were shattered”, notes the report.

They were rejected under laws that excluded Indians from settling in Canada. Their problems did not end there.

Upon their return in Calcutta, British gunboats blocked the ship’s entry into port. The passengers were treated as law-breakers and political agitators.

A general riot ensued when the police boarded the ship to capture the leaders.

“In the melee, 19 passengers were shot and killed, and the rest were jailed”.

Indian emigration has a long history, going back to over a thousand years, as Indians sought to help other countries with their development.

Indian indentured trade started with the French government in 1826 to her colonies in the Caribbean and Indian

Ocean area. Indians were indentured to Guyana in 1838 and later to the Dutch, French and Spanish Caribbean.

In recent time, Indian émigrés have been welcomed in Canada and other developed countries that once precluded Indians from settling including Japan, Italy, Ireland, US and Germany all of which have been sourcing Indian medics and techies for industrial development.

Indians are doing quite well in many countries leading the way in scientific and engineering research and their skills are in great demand. All of these countries are proud of the presence of Indians.

Prime Minister Trudeau should be applauded for his apology which is welcomed by the Indo-Canadian community (Indo-Guyanese are categorized as Indo-Canadians).

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Charity area stinks and has become a wild west Dear Editor, We the residents of Charity need urgent help and government’s intervention. I wish to bring to your attention a situation which continues to be a major problem for the residents of Charity, Pomeroon, Region Two. There appears to be complete neglect of the area by the NCD and other officials who were recently elected into office. The area is filthy and stinks; it has become overrun with vendors and illegal business operators.

This did not start last year, it has been around for

years, but now it has gotten even worse.

We the residents of the area demand that government via the Ministry of Local Government or other agency urgently visit the Charity area to see the state of neglect and the volume of filth that has overtaken our area.

The main cause of this problem is from the vendors who have shown contempt for all the rules and regulations and continue to sell on the roadway despite being in possession of stalls in the market.

These stalls are being

used mainly as bonds and vending continues like a Wild West situation on the roadways.

Many vendors have covered over the main drainage trench in the area.

This trench is a drainage and a reservoir and has not been cleaned in 25 years.

The vending situation has prevented this.

As a result, residences of Charity are regularly flooded, so much now that some people are saying their buildings are sinking.

The vendors have also become so brazen that they have taken over the river

defence and built over areas necessary for the protection from the river; this during the last spring tide lead to serious flooding and the sea defence team was unable to also access the area. If we allow this to continue Charity may become washed away.

In addition to the vendors the lawlessness extends to some of the businesses in the area, one proprietor is particular has covered more than 200 feet of the trench and uses it to market his goods. continued on page 5

guyana-times.com

saturDAY, may 28, 2016

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

Democracy in Guyana: City Hall The URP vision workers Dear Editor, By any measure, democracy can be described as a governing system in which the central power is vested with the voting population. In such a political system, government, and the officials that make up such a government, are legally and morally obligated to attend to the needs of its citizens. By extension, in a democratic system, supreme power is vested in the people and exercised directly by the people or by their elected representatives under a free and fair electoral system.

Since our independence in May 1966, Guyanese have not really had a chance to experience a prolonged period of stable democratic government.

The PNC, when in power, abolished the basic elements of democracy in its quest to build the Burnhamite dictatorship.

The PPP came into office amid a great deal of national and international support in 1992. The expectation was that with the democratic opening that occurred after the 1992 elections, PPP leaders would reconstruct the fragile Guyanese political system to create institutions that would ensure a democratic political order would be established. However, the opportunity to do so was woefully squandered by the ruling PPP, which mimicked in many ways the actions of the dictatorial Burnhamite PNC (now calling itself The Coalition).

This authoritarian entity is back in control, many of whose members are from the PPP and PNC. The APNUAFC coalition is governed by the same undemocratic means that characterized the PNC.

Much of the leadership style of the PNC and PPP is guided by a dictatorial desire to centralize political control both at the local and national levels.

In reality, the policies of the PPP, PNC and AFC have served to benefit a small group of loyalists and party elite, while the majority of the Guyanese people still live in poverty.

The AFC has become an abysmal failure. They came onto the scene promising to be an objective broker and they won the confidence of a healthy cross-section of the Guyanese support, both locally and from the Diaspora.

However, they have now merged into the PNC apparatus and have completely lost all of their independent objectivity. Their supporters are at a loss as to where they now stand. The acceptable notion is that the only AFC members left are those currently in parliament.

The failure of the PPP, PNC to build a sustainable democracy in Guyana is compounded by a number of factors, all of which have contributed to the erosion of a democratic tradition in this young nation. Included among these factors are preferential treatment for loyal party supporters, the widening gap between rich and poor, a failed education system, the out migration of skilled people, an increased drug trafficking and money laundering, widespread corruption, and a very vindictive government that considers all non-supporters as enemies of the ruling party.

Democracy cannot be institutionalized in Guyana unless there is respect for democratic principles and some shar-

Charity area stinks...

As if this was not enough, he uses the parking lot to also sell and display his goods.

Editor, the entire area has become a Wild West operation and we are frustrated. The vendors, some who also live in their stalls have no sanitation facilities and they just do their “business” outdoors; the cool-down carts openly sell beer and hard liquor to all, including school-aged children. The snackettes and drink stalls also engage in selling schoolaged children alcohol. None of these stalls have a GRA licence to sell liquor.

When the GRA people come to check, they close up shop until the GRA leaves.

We are calling on government to urgently address this plight for us the residents of Charity. We would like to see a clean-up campaign similar to what took place in Georgetown and we would like order to be brought to the area.

Editor, we also invite you to send a seasoned reporter to see the lawlessness that is taking pace.

from page 4

Sincerely, Concerned resident

ing of power. The PPP was removed from office because of its arrogance and corruption, among other unacceptable behaviours.

Corruption has not stopped under the coalition government. The situation continues to look hopeless under this regime with crime spiralling out of control and people being removed from their job on account of their race and political affiliation. This government has let down the population.

Guyana needs a government that can provide hope for the future, trust in its people and stability in government. It is only then that we can begin to establish a system that will work towards securing the social, political and economic interests of ALL Guyanese.

The United Republican Party (URP) has been appealing for a national unity government that will serve the interests of all. The URP will work with any political party to build and establish stronger democratic institutions; establishments which will serve the interests of all of Guyana’s citizens. The URP is committed to working with other local and regional organizations, international organizations, support groups and sympathetic governments to help keep Guyana on a democratic path.

We need to have a clear democratic system which will create conditions in our society that will enable all Guyanese to help transform our society.

It is time we recognize the great potential of our citizens.

More importantly, the URP will continue to work with its grass-roots supporters to build such a system from the bottom up, thereby creating a fair and no-discriminatory system.

Yours truly, Dr Vishnu Bandhu Leader URP

deserve better Dear Editor, With the Golden Jubilee being such a pivotal milestone for this dear land of ours, and with thousands joining each other to celebrate the Guyanese culture, and to rejoice in our shared experiences and values as we move forward to a brighter future, it was extremely sad to see City workers who worked so hard to prepare the C0ity being prevented from enjoying the fruits of their labour.

Of all the times the Georgetown City Council chose to delay the payment of wages and salaries was the month of May 2016, our Golden Jubilee month.

It is most unpatriotic, it is cruel in fact I would consider it sacrilege.

The pockets of the big boys in the Council’s administration are filled; so they could have celebrated in fine style, but it was the small man that suffered, and was prevented from attending the shows and other events.

How could Royston King and his merry administrators look into the eyes of the butchers, policemen, street orderlies, construction workers, day qcare attendants, drivers and cleaners and wish them a

Happy Independence?

During the administration of the previous Town Clerk, never one month was salaries were paid late, because there was never such squandermania.

The President or Minister of Communities should have intervened and saved those poor workers. Where is the Union?

Sincerely, Jermain Johnson

Apology Dear Editor: I made a mistake with the name of the leader of the United Force party in my last Sunday column, “Are We Celebrating Failure?” The UF leader was Peter D’Aguiar and not Fred D’Aguiar as I stated. I apologise for the mistake.

Fred D’Aguiar is, of course, a writer. He has won the Guyana Prize four times.

Sincerely, Ryhaan Shah

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saturday, may 28, 2016

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The benefits that television has given to society are immense. It acts as a medium of entertainment that keeps us in good spirits, it relays information across the globe in a highly efficient manner, and it can even be a means of bonding with friends and family.

However, as with anything in life, too much of a good thing can be bad. Television is frequently being used as an escape from reality. Children spend too much time watching TV and less time studying and socialising. Based on research by author Taylor-Dunlop, former United States Secretary of Education Richard Riley once emphasised that 90 per cent of achievement in school is determined by school attendance, how much reading is done at home, and how much television a child watches. The importance of regulating a child’s TV time cannot be stressed highly enough, because it could mean the difference between a successful academic and social life or a passive downward spiral.

Parents can develop and instil good TV habits in the child at home by following these simple techniques: Offer alternatives Books – This is an easy and inexpensive alternative, but the major problem is that most children find reading boring. Taking time during the formative years in cultivating a love of reading in the child can help him tremendously in the long run. Reading stories with your child can teach

guyana-times.com

Foundation

him that books are fun and exciting, a portal into another world. Parents can set the example by frequently reading books themselves and designating time after school to be used solely for reading.

Children hold their parents in high regard and frequently emulate the activities they see them doing. To further motivate children, parents can take them to the bookstore at least once a month and allow them to pick any book they want. There are plenty of children’s books that cover a wide genre of topics, such as horror, fantasy, and adventure.

Different children have different tastes, and allowing them to choose their own books will kindle their reading desire.

As mentioned earlier, 90 percent of school achievement is partly because of reading at home, and by developing a love of reading, huge successes at school will also be met.

Sports – Children usually spend too much time watching TV in order to satiate their boredom. Introducing children to sports can eliminate the need for excess TV. Basketball, baseball, football, or even the martial arts can be highly appealing to children. Allowing your child to choose the sport he likes will further increase their interest. Sports can have tremendous benefits in developing physical strength, coordination, and teamwork, thereby giving your child a head start in life. Using sports as a family activity can also increase bond-

ing among its members.

Musical instruments– Fostering a love of music and teaching children to play a musical instrument can curtail too much TV watching, but the benefits don’t stop there: playing an instrument can have a monumental impact in creativity development. Parents can begin the process by showing their child videos of various instruments being played by professionals. There are plenty of these videos being posted for free viewing on the internet. Children are very impressionable, and witnessing such a magnificent spectacle will set off an internal desire to achieve the same feat. After a thoughtful discussion, the parent can allow their child to choose the instrument he likes, as long as it is within their budget. It is important that children choose instruments themselves. Otherwise children will quickly lose interest and justify quitting by saying it was not the instrument they wanted. When this happens, positive reinforcement and constant reminders of the benefits and success he will have can help him keep his motivation up. If working on a limited budget, renting or borrowing the instrument will suffice. If the parent has musical talent, he can teach the child himself which will save money and create an opportunity to bond!

Hobbies– Watching TV is too passive a form of creative exercise. It would be wiser to introduce the child to hobbies

that promote growth and development. Hobbies can include a stamp or coin collection, creative writing and storytelling, flower arranging, painting, photography, or even playing toys alone or with other children. All of these are better alternatives to watching TV and can teach children the joys of engaging the world, as opposed to the idle boredom of flaccid entertainment.

Setting a schedule Setting a schedule can put a stop to excess TV watching. Parents can sit down with their child and map out a schedule, making sure to set a realistic timetable that takes into account their child’s entertainment needs as well as his study time. Allowing your child to contribute in making the schedule can further improve compliance. After the schedule has been made, it should be posted in plain view in front of the TV. The schedule should be strictly adhered to during the coming weeks, since the child may attempt to get around it through bargaining. It is important to be resolute, because if the parent is easily manipulated, trust and respect is lost. After months of regular use, children can be allowed to manage his own time, and the schedule can be taken down. Hopefully, the habits learned during the supervised period will be ingrained and automatically followed. (childdevelopmentinfo.com) to be continue

(Continued from Friday)

BY MISHA

I

do consider many of the differences between most girls and boys at this age to be fascinating, with neither being better or worse — just very different.

These differences can be celebrated, laughed about, and enjoyed, but they cannot always come together in a mutually peaceful play date.

And so I have come to accept that while my son will always be raised with the utmost respect for women, there are times when you just have to roll with a likeminded little boy at your next play date. You want to build a tower with us that is so high that it causes the

loudest crash on the floor?

Yeah, we OWN that trick.

You have a new room to explore where we can find each and every Lego piece and then make the longest train ever? Yup, we rule at that one, too. Anyone got a collection of monster trucks that we can simultaneously smash and crash at the highest decibels ever? We wrote the script on that one.

Just like sometimes I need my favourite “together we can justify anything” shopping buddy, well, sometimes my little mischiefmaker needs his own superhero partner in crime as well. It would be awesome if it happened to be a girl, but the odds are just not always in our favour on that one.

The truth is, there are just so many interesting differences in children at this age, and sometimes instead of forcing boys and girls to play together or worrying that they have to in order to develop the right social skills, we just need to go with it and accept that just because they don’t have mixed gender play dates or mixed gender parties does not mean it’s going to hinder their socialisation with the opposite sex later on.

In just a few all too short years, they will be developing crushes on each other, sending secret texts to each other, and messaging each other on Instragram, and we will be facing a whole new set of social interactions to navigate and monitor.

I, for one, celebrate this special time in their young lives – a time where they are still searching for the perfect Frozen game, dressup outfit, or monster truck crash. I will gladly stay, for just a few more precious years, in the Lego, superhero, and construction-loving stage.

Just not at a mixed gender play date is all. (www.sammichespsychmeds.com)

news

7

saturday, may 28, 2016 | guyana-times.com

ECD joiner dies after crashing Minister Henry apologises into parked vehicle Opposition walkout

but quibble on details

... Opposition Leader says explanation “nonsensical”

Dead: Karamchand “Bobby” Singh

A

R

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo expressing his displeasure on Wednesday night at D'Urban Park

esponding to the claims made by the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) about their alleged mistreatment at the recently held independence flag raising ceremony, Minister within the Education Ministry, Nicolette Henry, on Friday said the Party members left the D’Urban Park event while her officials were trying to have them seated together as requested.

On Wednesday evening, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo expressed disappointment that his Party was left embarrassed when members turned up at the D’Urban Park arena to be a part of the activities, but could not because most of the Members of Parliament (MPs) were left standing without any seats.

He said effort was made to correct the situation, but after some 30 minutes standing, nothing was done. They all dubbed the situation disrespectful, and the group, led

by Jagdeo, walked out of the event.

But on Friday, Minister Nicolette Henry, who had responsibility for the staging of the event, said the parliamentary Opposition was invited to all state events and confirmed its attendance to the flag raising ceremony.

She said after accepting the invitation, the Opposition was briefed by her on Tuesday, May 24, on the time of arrival, entrance to be used and seating arrangements. Based on the arrangement, the Opposition Leader

was expected to be seated in the Presidential Section with all other past Presidents and Prime Ministers. All other PPP members were to be seated in the other VIP section.

According to Henry, the Opposition Leader did arrive, but not at the time he was expected to. He also used an entrance that he was not supposed to use.

Explaining the details of what transpired on Wednesday evening, Minister Henry said Jagdeo arrived at 21:55h and used the South Western entrance (Hadfield Street).

She said had it not been for the Police insistence on using the North-western entrance, this would have resulted in the Opposition and President Granger arriving on the tarmac at the same time.

According to her, the other members remained standing in the passage and had indicated that they would only sit when they could be assigned seats together.

However, according to her, this was not told to the usher.

“Upon my arriving in the Presidential Section, the Opposition Leader indicated there were concerns with the seating. I assured him I will address this immediately, so I proceeded by personally asking other invited persons to give up their seats to ensure the Opposition members were all seated together.”

She said as soon as the

persons began to give up their seats, the Opposition walked out.

“In the circumstances, I wish to state that as the organiser of this event, I apologise for any inconvenience, embarrassment or distress this incident may have caused”, Henry said in a statement on Friday.

But Jagdeo, immediately told Guyana Times that the Minister’s response was “nonsensical.” In fact, most of the things she stated were untrue, the former Head of State said.

Meanwhile, the PPP/C in a statement issued on Friday afternoon said that Minister Henry’s statement on the incident is “a poor effort to extricate the Government from the disrespectful treatment of the parliamentary Opposition.”

According to the Party, the Minister seemed to have difficulty comprehending the issue at hand. “The Minister gave all assurances on May 24 to the Leader of the Opposition and a large group of PPP/C MPs and again on May 25, with the Chief Whip [Gail Teixeira] that seats for all PPP/C MPs and their spouses were reserved for the flag raising in the VIP section and that “we should not worry, everything was taken care of,” the statement said.

According to the Party, the Minister was advised that the PPP/C MPs were attending the event in one bus to reduce any logistical problems.

Police secure extension to hold RK guards

C

rime Chief Wendell Blanhum on Friday confirmed the Police Force can lawfully detain RK’s security guards, Damion Pearce and Cleveland Pyle in connection with the robbery committed at an East Coast Demerara bank on Monday evening.

According to the Crime Chief the Police are expected to wrap up their investigations over the weekend and once legal advice is had, the men will make a court appearance in the new week.

He also stated that based on information, they are

hunting two others who were also part of the staged robbery.

The two men reportedly confessed to the robbery during interrogation by police while at the same time implicating two others.

On Monday last, Pearce and Pyle who are attached to the RK Security Service were taking cash to the ECD bank to be deposited when they claimed they were relieved of the money and the firearms they were carrying.

During the well-orchestrated robbery, one of the men shot himself to the leg to

make it look as if they were attacked by armed gunmen.

Following their confession, the duo led police to an A Field Sophia, Georgetown, house where they dug up the $3 million from the back yard. The guns which they claimed were taken by the bandits were also unearthed at the same location. The occupant of the house at the time who is the girlfriend of Pearce was taken into police custody.

Attempts to contact the owner of RK Security for a comment proved futile.

(Bhisham Mohamed)

father of six was on Thursday evening killed after he crashed allegedly into a parked vehicle at Good Hope, East Coast Demerara. The collision, which occurred at about 20:00h resulted in the death of Karamchand “Bobby” Singh, 44, of Lot 576 Block 8, Mon Repos, ECD. According to reports, the man was heading home from a nephew’s birthday party at Lusignan, ECD when he met his demise.

Guyana Times understands Singh was riding along the Railway Embankment Highway and in the vicinity of Good Hope koker, he lost control of his motorcycle CG 4185 and slammed into a parked X-Trail bearing registration PSS 9646.

He sustained severe injuries and was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. At the home of the dead man on Friday, his daughter Indira Budhu explained that her stepfather left home on Thursday afternoon to attend a birthday party of his nephew.

The vehicle and motorcycle at the scene on Thursday evening

She noted that family was at home when they received a phone call from a relative informing them that Singh was involved in an accident.

Without hesitation, she, her mother and a few family members rushed to the scene but by that time he was already taken to GPH. While at the scene, she added, the vehicle was parked in the middle of the road and her father’s mangled motorcycle was in a corner.

“When I reach, meh stepfather cousin told we that the driver of the pickup say he de park in the corner when meh stepfather slam into (he vehicle).” Budhu added that no one was there to substantiate the claims made by the man.

However, she left the scene and went to the hospital where she saw Singh lying on a bed in a motionless state.

When asked if her stepfather might have been under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident, Budhu noted that she was told that he had two bottles of beer.

She noted that her stepfather was very loving and took care of them as if they were his own.

Budhu further stated that her mother is devastated and has to be consoled by relatives. She is trying to come to grips with the reality.

The driver of the other vehicle was taken into custody and is assisting with investigations.

(Bhisham Mohamed)

8 news

saturDAY, may 28, 2016 | guyana-times.com

IN THE COURTS Bagotstown accident Fraud accused released on $160,000 bail Minibus drivers Post-revelry... slapped with causing A death charge

Eyew tness

Driver: Jamal Mcloud

Driver: Michael Thorne

T

he two minibus drivers allegedly responsible for causing the death of Roxanne Mitchell, killed on Independence night, were both slapped with a causing death by dangerous driving charge when they appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Jamal Mcloud, 60, and his co-accused, Michael Thorne, 26, were arraigned on Friday before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

They were not required to plea to the indictable charge, which stated that on May 26, 2016 at Bagotstown Public Road, East Bank Demerara they drove vehicles bearing license plate BPP 6158 and BPP167 respectively, in a manner dangerous to the

Dead: Roxanne Mitchell

public thereby causing the death of Mitchell.

Mcloud was represented by Attorney Bernard Dasilva. Dasilva in a bail application told the court that the charge laid against his client is a mere allegation, since his (Mcloud) vehicle was hit from behind at the time of the collision.

He further added that Mcloud suffers from hypertension and is a diabetic patient, who has no prior brushes with the law and poses no flight risk since his Guyana passport is invalid.

According to Dasilva his client was Mitchell’s neighbour.

Meanwhile, Mark Conway representing Thorne stated in his bail application that his client is incapable of moving around since he sustained serious injuries in the collision. He is currently being physically supported by his family, the lawyer said.

Prosecutor Deniro Jones made no objections to their requests and so were released on $250,000 bail each.

According to reports, Mitchell was returning home from the Independence flagraising ceremony when the accident occurred at about 01:30h.

The case will continue on June 3, 2016.

Correia Air Services employee appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan slapped with two counts of fraud.

Orin McKay, 60, of Lot 2678 Manatee Place, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to both charges.

The first charge stated that on July 26, 2012, with intent to defraud McKay endeavoured to obtain one individual half share at Lot 2678 Manatee Place, South Ruimveldt Park, by virtue of an application by way of deed of gift, knowing that the signature purporting to be that of the owner William Vibert Halley was forged.

The second charge alleged that on October 17, 2012 at

the same location with intent to defraud, by way of transfer he forged the signature of the said William Vibert Halley.

McKay’s Attorney Kevon Bess related to the court that the alleged forged documents carried the signature of a Justice of the Peace (JP), who swore the document.

Bess argued that the document was prepared an attorney and the prosecutor should take into consideration the signed affidavit. He further requested reasonable bail for his client or for him to be released on his own recognizance.

Prosecutor Deniro Jones made no objections to bail but asked for a substantial amount. Chief Magistrate McLennan granted McKay $160,000 bail. The case will continue on June 15.

Teen slapped with wounding charge

A

Lindener was granted bail by Magistrate Clive Nurse on an unlawful and malicious wounding charge, when he appeared at the Linden Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.

Martin Fraser Junior, 18, of Constabulary Compound, Mackenzie, pleaded not

guilty to the charge which alleged that he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Javick Dennis on March 29, at the Bayroc Community Centre Ground at Wismar, Linden.

He was granted bail in the sum of $40,000 with the case continuing on June 29.

6 narcotics traffickers accused freed

T

he case against six Lindeners accused of trafficking in narcotics was dismissed by Magistrate Clive Nurse, when they made an appearance at the Linden Magistrate’s Court.

Trevon Elcock, 30, a Labourer of Lot 134 One Mile, Wismar, Neville Bustianni, 39, of Lot 656 Block 22, Wismar; Ronald Reid, 35, of Constabulary Compound, Mackenzie, Shemrick Peters, 24, of One Mile, Wismar, Wesley Hercules, 54, of Lot 119 Wismar Housing Scheme, and Willita Bess were all slapped

with the charge to which they had been granted bail after pleading not guilty.

It was alleged that they had 58 grammes of cannabis sativa in their possession at Wismar Housing Scheme on Saturday December 5, 2015. It was further alleged that the six accused were observed smoking while playing dominoes

by Police on patrol in the said area.

However, after perusing the evidence against them, Magistrate Clive Nurse ruled that the case be dismissed due to insufficient evidence.

L

...thoughts

ike the obligatory post-coital smoke, your Eyewitness can’t let this big Jubilee Bash pass without some reflection as to what actually went down. After all, the theme for the entire week of celebrations was “Reflect, Celebrate, Inspire”.

This is a reelection on the celebration but frankly, it wasn’t very inspiring! There was a “Jubilee Festival” at the National Stadium then with the Flag Raising Ceremony and the grand finale of the Float Parade on Independence Day itself. Was it as good for the participants and it was for the organisers?

Well the Jubilee Festival – paid for by private companies, hustled to give “contributions” – kicked off on May 19 with “A night of Spiritual Upliftment”.

But for some reason, not many showed up to be “spiritually uplifted”. Even GINA, the PR arm of the Government, couldn’t “big up” the attendance beyond “hundreds”. Is it that 50 years after Independence, Guyanese are less religious? Is that a mark of our social progress? The social scientists did predict “modernisation” will be accompanied by “secularisation”.

Or is it because only “pro-Government” religious groups were invited?

The next event was also scheduled for the National Stadium the following day – Everything Guyanese – showcasing our Indigenous Peoples’ Culture folk music. Your Eyewitness scanned every newspaper in hard copy and Internet ...nothing...zilch...nada. So what does that mean? Indigenous Peoples are still the “invisible Guyanese”?

The 21st had the “Night of Legends” and this came off...but with and even sparser crowd than for the “spirituality”. Either the legends aren’t as well known as they ought to be or else Guyanese aren’t too big on nostalgia. Who remembers Johnny Braff once ruled the airwaves all across the Caribbean around the time of Independence? Well, not the organisers since he was billed but not featured. And he’s in Guyana!

But they did plan something for the presumably present-fixated youngsters... A Nexxt Generation concert that was supposed to showcase “young Guyanese talent”. Here again... Nothing. If two concerts occur and no one reported it – did they happen? Turned out the Govt organisers flubbed the media passes!

Be as it may, there was for sure the grand Flag Raising at the spanking new wooden Durban Jubilee Park. But unfortunately, the snubbing of the Opposition entourage who didn’t get seats overshadowed the flag on the tallest pole in the country.

The Independence Day float parade was almost an anticlimax – saved by the massive show of support for the Guyana Amazon Warriors.

It was the only float drawing the full diversity of Guyana. Cricket’s still our unifying force.

....J’ouvert?

This Government has made a Herculean effort to move the Float Parade from Republic Day on February 23 to Independence Day, May 26. But they didn’t just move the date...they objected to the vulgar degeneration of the ethos of the Republic Day celebrations into a “poor man’s” sexualised imitation of the Trinidad Carnival. Including of late, even their messy J’ouvert. The coalition Government vowed to return “dignity” to the activity.

One could understand Guyanese imitating Carnival because of its connection to Lent falling in February, which was also our Republic month. But what was the reason for now holding a “J’ouvert” in May – as one group did on the morning of the 26th?

Is it that we Guyanese just can’t commemorate anything without it descending into vulgarity?

It should surprise no one the Guyanese “J’ouvert” ended up with the being beaten with bottles when they tried to bring order to one scuffle.

What does this mean? The descent into the abyss might be permanent?

...excuse

Junior Minister Nicolette Henry issued an “explanation” for the snubbing of the Opposition Leader at the Flag Raising ceremony that raises more questions than the “answers” in the explanation.

For instance, who were the hundreds of persons who were in what she described as the “Presidential Section”.

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

news

9

saturday, may 28, 2016 | guyana-times.com

Bandits storm Canje $306M in laptops businessman's home OLPF forensic audit

missing, damaged F

The forensic audit conducted on the One Laptop Per Family (OLPF) Project has revealed millions of dollars in losses due to over five thousand computers going missing or being damaged.

The audit was conducted last year by Ram and McRae Chartered Accountants. The report was submitted to Finance Minister Winston Jordan in December but was only published on the Ministry’s website on Friday.

The main objective of the OLPF project was to acquire and distribute laptops to 90,000 families countrywide.

According to the auditors, “It is likely that of the total number of laptops acquired by purchase or grant of 55,145, some 5136 were either stolen or are defective.

In dollar terms, the actual loss to the Government is $306,160,171.”

The report found pointed out that during 2012, management of the project had discovered that 103 laptops, amounting to some $5,912,200, were missing.

Following investigations by

the Guyana Police Force, the services of seven employees were terminated by the Office of the President on February 22, 2013; however, the missing laptops were never recovered.

In addition, a full (100 per cent) physical inventory count was requested and observed on August 5, 2015 by the auditors, who subsequently preformed a reconciliation based on the documents provided.

Their procedures found that management was unable to account for an additional 1875 laptops costing $109,168,913.

“We believe that this matter should be referred to the Police for a full investigation,” the report recommended.

Moreover, it was highlighted that some 3158 laptops, valued $191,079,058, that were in stock are all damaged. The auditors said that they were unable to determine whether these are beyond repair.

On the issue of distribution, the audit found total distribution cost amount to $35,291,406 or three per cent of the total cost of the project.

Lindener on bail for discharging firearm in public

A

man from the mining town of Linden was on Wednesday put on $35,000 bail for discharging a firearm in a public place when he appeared before Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Linden Magistrate’s Court.

It is alleged that Oslen Adams, 33, also called

“Babaloo” of Lot 359 Wisroc Housing Scheme, Wismar, discharged the firearm at Republic Avenue, Mackenzie, Linden on May 23.

When the charge was read, Adams pleaded not guilty and was placed on bail.

The case will continue on June 21.

Attempted robbery duo on $50,000 bail

T

wo men were on Friday granted $50,000 bail each when they appeared before City Magistrate Annette Singh for assault and attempted robbery charges.

The men Jermaine Edwards of 67 Leopold Street, Werk-en-rust, Georgetown, and Keno Lanking of Lot 962 Diamond Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara, both pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on May 22, 2016 in the vicinity of Albert Street, Georgetown they as-

saulted Krystal Peters during their failed attempt to rob her.

It is alleged that at about 17:30h Peters was walking in Albert Street, when she was choked from behind and pulled to the ground by one of the accused. She somehow managed to call for help when public-spirited persons came to her rescue. The men were apprehended and taken to the Alberttown Police Station where they were charged. The case will continue on June 10, 2016.

The average cost of distribution per laptop was therefore $706. However, the reported stated that up to and including December 31, 2014, the Project had fallen short of the target of 90,000 laptops to be distributed by 31,697 or 35 per cent.

Meanwhile, the auditing firm noted that total training cost amounted to $70,750,427 or six per cent of the total cost. The average cost of training per laptop was therefore $1415. However, it was outlined that while the OLPF's mission statement defined a clear obligation to provide 10 hours of training to all laptop recipients, the Project Manager had decided to cease the training aspect of the project during the last quarter of 2013. The auditors roughly estimated that some 14,138 laptops were distributed without the requisite training.

“It is clear from the summary analysis above that 92 per cent of the total cost was incurred due to indirect expenses, while only eight per cent was directly attributable to the underlying objective of the project,” the report stated.

The auditors believe that the general expenses of the OLPF project were exorbitant and could have been curtailed by management.

Moreover, they stated that the scope of their engagement was limited by the fact that management was unable to provide a number of significant documents for review. This was compounded by the fact that the Project Manager, Margo Boyce and the Deputy Project Manager, Azariah Asim, resigned during the course of the investigation. In both cases, their last day for work was August 14, 2015.

Nevertheless, the report highlighted the new agreement signed between the Government of Guyana and Aerospace Science and Industry Shenzhen Co Ltd (China) on September 15, 2015, which caters for 9609 laptops to be provided by China at a total cost of $1,631,000,000. These laptops are to be distributed to educators, students, institutions of learning and community-based organisations.

“We draw attention to the average unit price of $169,737 for the 9609 laptops to be acquired. This compares unfavourably with the average price of $58,044.83 per laptop acquired by the last Administration. It should be noted that the new laptops are of a higher quality and specifications compared to the models acquired by the previous Administration,” the auditors explained.

However, it was recognised that laptops of similar capacity are listed on the international markets at a retail price ranging from $86,310 to $108,974.

ive armed men in the wee hours of Friday morning invaded the property of a wellknown Canje businessman and carted off over $1M in items.

The robbery took place at about 02:30h at Lot 135 New Street, East Canje, Berbice, home of Abdool Rashied Hack.

Reports are the businessman and his wife were asleep in the patio area when they were awakened by unusual sounds. As

Abdool Rashied Hack

The room that was ransacked by the bandits

the sounds continued, the businessman immediately grabbed his wife and ran to a secured area.

Once secured he report-

edly opened a windows and raised an alarm but this did not deter the armed men from getting into the house.

The men, according to re-

ports used a wood to break a door and also discharged a round, shattering a glass window.

After gaining entry, the men went to one of the bedrooms where they searched for cash and jewellery but after coming up emptyhanded they collected a quantity of phone cards valued close to $1 million and other items valued another $200,000.

A neighbour related to this newspaper that they were afraid to offer assistance since the men were armed but rather contacted the police and reported that a robbery was in progress.

The neighbour related that she saw two men in an empty plot of land keeping guard while the others were in the house.

“They had a cell phone and one of them call somebody and say, “neighbours wake up, neighbours wake up” and then all five of them walk in a line and went to the road,” the woman stated.

Guyana Times was told the men were all dressed in black and carrying guns. In addition, they were masked.

When contacted Divisional Commander Ian Amsterdam related that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the robbery while noting that no arrest was made.

10

guyana-times.com

saturDAY, may 28, 2016

News

Norton lambastes management of Diamond Hospital -shortage of drugs, doctors, nurses highlighted during visit

Diamond Diagnostic Centre

By Kizzy Coleman

Following the cries of employees at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre (DDC) of inhumane conditions, Public Health Minister on Friday visited the East Bank Demerara establishment and lashed out at management there.

In a meeting in the director’s office Dr Kay Shako, Minister Norton accompanied by Minister Dr Karen Cummings, grilled and lambasted the hospital administrators for the current crises facing the institution.

Addressing the meeting, Minister Norton said the Diagnostic Centre was built with a purpose, a purpose which it is currently not achieving because administrators are not operating in the capacity as they should.

He said it is the duty of the administrators to bring to the attention of the Public Health Ministry problems they are faced with. This he noted is not being done.

According to Norton, the DDC has seen better days and is losing its previous status.

Assessing the situation,

Dr Norton stated: “We cannot afford to have Diamond Diagnostic Centre crumble, this is not going to happen, and we are going to implement the necessary changes to bring it back to where it was and even better.”

He reminded the administrators that each year, the hospital have a history of sending back $6 million to the Consolidated Funds, which should not repeat itself this year.

“What is happening, we have to work together, we need this thing to work,” Norton petitioned the ad-

ministrators.

He further reminded that the Diagnostic Centre was built to relieve the situation at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) but is presently forwarding patients to GPH instead.

Crisis Questioning the administrators, Dr Norton was updated about the plights the hospital is presently facing.

With a visible list of the problems affecting the facility, Medical Superintendent of the hospital Dr Micheal Pereira relayed that chief among the issues plaguing the institution is the shortage of doctors, nurses, drugs, and medical equipment.

Because of these shortages, surgeries at the institution cannot be conducted and persons are being rescheduled constantly or referred to the GPH. Dr Pereira informed that there are no certified pharmacists at the hospital nor are there sufficient ambulance drivers.

The minister was also told that employees are not being paid on time; there is no Police Outpost at the facility; and no security service is available. There is also the need for social workers.

The administrators also

decried the poor facilities they are forced to work with on a daily basis.

According to the administrators, there are broken doors in the hospital, nonfunctional air-conditioning units, leaking roof, insufficient equipment and medication in the ambulances, black mould forming on the roofs, and the lack of water.

Presently the fire service has been supplying the hospital with water as Guyana Water Incorporation (GWI) is facing difficulties supplying water not only to the hospital but to the entire area.

According to the administrators, the issues currently facing the hospital have been ongoing for a number of months.

After listening to the situation, Dr Norton explained that it is not his desire to point a finger at administrators but to get them functioning in an effective manner.

“Anything that happens at Timehri its diamond they will be coming, at the stadium, it’s Diamond that they will be coming so we cannot afford to leave this hospital in such a terrible condition”.

Solution The Public Health Minister proposed a quali-

fied individual to be put in place at the hospital to take the lead over the administrators.

“We need to get the administration under better control to have things working better.”

According to the administrators, the tendering process for approval of funds for the equipment and ordered drugs from the region is proving to be a huge issue, as such the minister said that consultations must be carried out to have this changed.

Consultations will also have to be held with the Materials Management Unit who is currently not supplying sufficient medical equipment, drugs to the hospital and delaying the process on many occasions.

Norton also assured that better qualified persons will be employed at the facility.

“We need to identify the problem, think about the solution, and work towards the solution. If we are doing things one way and we are not getting results then we got to change it but we want to do it together”.

Visibly frustrated, both Norton and Cummings noted that they must find a way forward to fix the situation urgently.

Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton meeting with staff of the Diamond Diagnostic Centre

Jubilee babies at Suddie Public Hospital presented with hampers By: Indrawattie Natram

T

hree mother’s faces were further lit up with joy on Thursday after they were presented with baby hampers by Region 2 Chairman Devanand Ramdatt to mark Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary. The presentation ceremony was conducted at the Suddie Public Hospital Maternity Ward.

The hampers were given to three mothers who delivered on May, 26, Independence Day. During the handing over Region 2 Chairman, Ramdatt told the mothers the gifts were in

observance of the country’s Jubilee celebrations.

He extended best wishes on behalf of Region 2 Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and pleaded with the mothers to take good care of their babies. Ramdatt said the hampers were given to him by Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson to present to the Jubilee mothers.

Ramdatt told the mothers their babies were lucky and when they reach the age of 50, Guyana will be celebrating its 100th Anniversary, which he described as another milestone. The three mothers who received ham-

pers were Ronika Alen, 25, Susan Moriah, 22, and Onika Persaud, 24. The mothers, who had normal deliveries, expressed gratitude towards the Minister of Public Infrastructure and the Massy group for the hampers.

Ronika Allen of Queenstown said she delivered around noon Independence Day and it was her fifth child. Susan Moriah from Onderneeming said it was her third child and she delivered a boy around 5:00h Independence Day. Onika Persaud from Kara Kara was the only mother who delivered a girl, and noted it was her sixth child.

saturDAY, may 28, 2016

guyana-times.com

News

“Illegally parked” cars take over Stabroek Market Square

Cars occupying the Stabroek Market Square

T

hough the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has moved to rid the Stabroek Market Square of encumbrances to transform the area by removing the bus park, several private and hire cars have now occupied the area.

This occupation comes despite the claims by City Hall that the area should remain clear after the Route 41, 45 and 46 mini-buses as well as several vendors were all relocated.

Guyana Times attempted to ascertain two main concerns: if City Council allowed the occupation of the square by the car operators; and if the M&CC was obtaining fees from the operators. However attempts to contact Town Clerk Royston King to clarify these matters were unsuccessful as we were told he was unavailable.

According to reports,

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the cars have been operating taxi services in the area.

The new area allocated for

they related their frustration of the “unfavourable” parking system which currently has no demarcation lines. The buses were relocated to an area in the vicinity of a footwear store, opposite Demico House, where they had been in the past.

“Whoever in charge of whatever going in, like they don’t have a plan because de buses went there, good, right now they congesting the traffic, they [City Council] doing a bundle of stupidness; they tek where me park and me money getting lil bit, I gat two chil-

Minibus operators’ unfavourable relocation

the bus park was met with much criticism, especially from the operators of Route 45 mini-buses.

When this newspaper spoke with a few of them,

dren,” one minibus driver for 25 years told this publication.

“That is de most stupidness I see in 25 years. They collecting revenue and they

tear down de park,” the angry driver said in reference to the posts and chains which City Hall had removed after only installing them last year.

“They put down post and chain and just pull out back all… taxpayer money going down the drain, they tell we they spend hundreds of thousands to do dat but check de big hole wah leff in deh now,” driver Mark Anthony explained.

The Route 45 drivers further stated that the current parking system is endangering passengers as they would have to enter from the side of oncoming traffic.

They also complained about the “hot plate” buses which would not observe the turn system. One bus conductor alleged that the hot plate system is facilitated by city police ranks would “allow their friends” to break the chain.

Another bus driver, Jackie, said that all she wants to see is law and order in the area and City Council should “call a spade a spade” in reference to the “illegally parked cars”.

Meanwhile Stabroek Market vendors who had protested their relocation to a vacant spot at Lombard and Hadfield streets told Guyana Times on Wednesday that while business is somewhat slow they are adjusting to their current conditions.

Pensioner found hanging in mandir

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Dead: Jamoona Somai

he lifeless body of a 63-year-old pensioner was on Thursday morning discovered hanging in a mandir at Alness, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

The dead man has been identified as Jamoona Somai of Alness Village.

An autopsy conducted

morning. According to the dead man’s wife, Drophati Bharrat, when she got out of bed and went downstairs, she discovered that a piece of rope which ties a hammock was missing.

She said she immediately told her 18-year-old granddaughter to go to the mandir to see what was going on.

“Every morning he would go to the mandir and sweep out and then lock the gate and come back home; is years he doing that.”

When the granddaughter looked through a window of the building, the discovery was made and an alert was raised. According to Bharrat, her husband suffered two heart attacks and a stroke in the past two years and ever since, he has been experienc-

The mandir at Alness where the body was discovered

on the body by Dr Marcalas Martinez gave the cause of death as a result of traumatic rupture of the hyoid bone resulting in strangulation.

Reports are that Somai left his home situated two houses away from the mandir in the wee hours of the

ing severe pains.

The former cane harvester leaves to mourn a wife, four children and a granddaughter who grew up with him.

According to his wife, Somia was a willing person who always helped his family.

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saturDay, may 28, 2016 | guyana-times.com

Indian Arrival Expo Sattaur Gafoor: A humanitarian set for this Sunday who has set the standard for

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The steering committee of the Indian Arrival Expo

he much anticipated Indian Arrival Expo will be held on Sunday, May 29 at the Lenora Synthetic Track’s parking lot, West Coast Demerara (WCD) and according to the steering committee the event will be used to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of East Indians.

Speaking to Guyana Times Shanta Ranglall of the Committee, explained that while the event is traditionally held to coincide with Arrival Day which is observed on May 5, the Committee chose to host the Expo on May 29 to end the month of celebration: “The month of May is known as the Indian Arrival Heritage Month, so we chose May 29 to just bring the curtain down and end it with the Indian Arrival Expo,” she stated.

Public Relations Officer of the Committee, Shri Ram Talmakund related that it is the first time the Expo is being held in Region Three and the change in location

is welcomed as it brings attention to the beauty of the villages along West Coast Demerara. He related that preparations for the event were not “quite easy” however, he is pleased with the preparations that have been made.

“The planning was not easy but we went all the way to get all three religious organizations, as well as other organizations, involved. On that day we will be having various booths, not only games. We will be having sports, such as cricket matches.

We will also have race car drivers present, along with their race cars on exhibition. It will be a full Indian cultural day in terms of clothing, food and games.

The cultural show starts in the evening at 17:00h and will feature items such as songs and dances as well as skits from all three of the major religions,” he explained.

Suraj Dhanpaul, the or-

ganizer responsible for the cultural aspect of the event, explained that a number of activities will take place for the cultural heritage of East Indians: “All three religious organizations would be participating in this Indian Arrival Expo.

We will be having a gentleman from Essequibo who will be giving live pottery demonstrations on site. We will also have murtis being made there as well. We will be having Indian clothing and furniture on display as well as on sale. So it is going to be showing everyone how our ancestors used to live many years ago when they first came to Guyana.”

He also revealed that there will be a medical booth which will be offering checkups and a yoga booth on site.

Meanwhile, Haresh Rambarak related that a number of fun games and activities will be available for the entire family to participate in. “One of the most interesting activities would be the game aspect of it.

We will be having merrygo rounds, a Ferris wheel, face painting, photo booths with cartoon characters such as Elsa from Frozen, Dora and a few others who would be there for the photo aspect.

There will be a lot of prizes which would be won on that day, especially in the games booth. There are a number of activities planned for that day, so it will be fun and enjoyable,” he stated, while encouraging persons to visit the exhibition.

other employers to follow

witness my life’s work go up in smoke and flames before my very eyes,” he shared.

By Ahreefa Bacchus

J

ust over two weeks ago, the business community was shaken when one of the largest companies in Guyana, Gafoors Houston Complex was damaged in a fiery inferno. Over 60 per cent of the complex, which housed a number of departments worth many millions, was destroyed in the Monday, May 9 fire.

However despite this calamity, the company’s Executive Chairman Sattaur Gafoor remains resilient throughout the ordeal, ensuring his employees’ interests and wellbeing were placed before the company’s financial losses.

The calamitous fire left some 530 employees worried sick as to where to seek alternative employment, but Gafoor after meeting with them as well as the company’s board the following Wednesday, relocated employees who live within close proximity of Parika, East Bank Essequibo; and Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara branches to those locations. The remaining workers not relocated are being provided with 75 per cent of their salaries every month until they return to work.

On Wednesday evening, Gafoor hosted an appreciation dinner for those persons who offered support to him in his time of worry. At the dinner, the Chairman reflected on the company’s history as well as his endurance during difficult times.

Milestones and disasters

Gafoor reminisced about the foundation of the company and fondly shared recollections of his father’s venture which later became the reason that Gafoors became a household name across the country: “It was during this month, some 63 years ago, that my late father came to Georgetown to seek (his) fortune and started a small lumber yard business on the corner of Sussex Street.

So this month has traditional-

Renewed faith and rebuilding

Executive Chairman Sattaur Gafoor

ly been a milestone for us, one of hope, one of change.”

He went on to say that the fond memories of the month of May became darkened as disaster struck his business.

“Change comes continuously in one form or another. It was during this month that I should have celebrated my 75th birthday, instead I stood and witnessed a fire, or should I say an out-of-control inferno, that destroyed more than 60 per cent of my business,” he solemnly stated.

Heartbreak and holding the faith

Gafoor continued to relate the depth of the disastrous fire as he explained that most, if not all of the company’s equipment and fixtures were destroyed. However this would not cause him as much heartbreak as losing his personal belongings; mementos and letters from his departed parents which were housed at his Houston office.

“What cannot be replaced are items surrounding my personal life, these letters from close relatives and family including my father and my mother who are long gone and two of my brothers who are now deceased. My personal library of more than 600 books which I moved to Houston against the advice of my wife, photographs with personalities including Forbes Burnham which are irreplaceable. It is heartbreaking to

The Chairman reflected on his response to witnessing the fire that dreadful evening.

He explained that while it was painful to witness his hard work go up in flames, he knew that he would have to maintain his faith and focus on rebuilding the complex for his employees’ sake. “Each time there was an explosion from the glass bottles, or a loud sound as the roof or the floor fell, my heart sank and I realized that much could not be saved. My wife and I looked at each other questionably and then at the faces of despair and sorrow, many with over two to three decades of service to us. Many of them cried.

You could see the sorrow in their faces, no doubt wondering about their livelihoods.

But through it all, we knew at the back of our minds that we had to transcend this calamity,” Gafoor related.

He used the opportunity to thank God that all his staff were able to exit the burning building in a timely manner and no one was hurt. “We thank God for his infinite mercy in which he left one portion of the building virtually untouched by that fire in which we could huddle together and try to put the pieces back together.

That, I consider to be a great miracle and I thank God for his mercy and compassion. He gives with one hand and takes with the other. We cannot question Him, nor can we question His works,” he stated, after declaring that through this experience he has come out with his faith restored and renewed.

The Gafoors Huston Complex has since the fire reopened its doors to the general public and are currently operating all of the various departments that customers have come to know and trust in the portion of the business that was not gutted by the fire.

Christian community to mark Jubilee with joint rally

E

ven though Guyana had concluded the month-long celebrations of its Golden Jubilee Anniversary, the Christian community has initiated a major rally set for Sunday which is expected to see participation of churches across the country.

The event initiated through joint partnership among groups in the Christian Community; the Georgetown Ministers Fellowship (GMF); Guyana Council of Churches (GCC); and the Guyana Evangelical Fellowship (GEF), is slated for D’Urban Park commencing at 16:00 hours.

Apart from highlighting the country’s achievement of Independence 50 years ago, this event is seeking to bring about national unity and peace through prayer and

thanksgiving as Guyana is aiming towards progression in the future, According to a release by the three entities: “The 50th anniversary therefore affords the opportune moment for us to once again emphasize the importance of racial unity, healing and reconciliation, if we as a people are to experience the fullness of God and successfully advance.”

The entities outlined that as the country observes its anniversary, the Christian community believes that an event such as this will place light on trending issues that are affecting the country and that are hindrances to achieving maximum advancement.

With these issues being highlighted, much work by the Christian community can be done religious-wise to eliminate the gap between

Guyanese as it relates to social differences, the entities noted.

One of the issues highlighted was racial segregation, which the entities say has a direct impact on the country’s general advancement as it aims towards further development.

In order to achieve their goals, the entities are optimistic that prayers and thanksgiving will be the ideal method to inaugurate the development that the country is positive about accomplishing.

“We believe that God’s plan for Guyana is that it should be a united and prosperous nation; it is out of that conviction we pray and work to see the fulfilment of such a God-given vision for our country. This really is within that context”, the statement read.

news

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saturDay, may 28 , 2016 | guyana-times.com

Guyana's 50th Independece Anniversary float parade

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guyana-times.com

saturday, may 28, 2016

Regional

Brazil identifies 4 of IMF predicts decline 33 gang-rape suspects in Belize economy

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razilian Police say they have identified four of 33 suspects involved in the gang rape of a 16-year-old girl in Rio de Janeiro that intensified public calls for action against the endemic problem.

The four arrest warrants were issued on Friday, days after the assault came to light when several men joked about the attack online on Wednesday, posting graphic photos and videos of the unconscious, naked teen on Twitter.

“It’s absurd that in the 21st century we have to live with barbarous crimes like this,” Brazil’s acting President Michel Temer said in a statement, promising to create a federal Police Force unit tasked with tackling crimes against women.

At a news conference, Police said the girl said she

T

Police said the men were armed, though it was not clear if the weapons were used to intimidate the victim during the attack

was raped by 33 men on Saturday and she regained consciousness the following day. The girl’s 19-yearold boyfriend was one of the men being sought, but Police said they did not know whether he may have been one of the attackers.

Police said the men were armed, though it was not clear if the weapons were

used to intimidate the victim during the attack. In another case, a group of at least five men allegedly drugged and raped a 17-year-old girl in the northeastern state of Piaui.

The posting of the video by the perpetrators sparked a wave of revulsion among Brazilians on social media.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

OECS pushing forward on single space policy

P

lans are being advanced to establish a single domestic space within the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).

Top officials within the nine-member grouping will meet in Antigua and Barbuda from May 30 to June 2 to develop a framework to facilitate this arrangement, within the context of the OECS Economic Union.

Once in place, it would mandate that persons travelling within the Economic

Union Area (EUA) be treated as if they would already have been cleared for entry and satisfied all required border control formalities for entry into the area.

Additionally, visitors arriving from outside the space should satisfy all border control checks only at the first point of entry into the EUA and then be able to move freely within the area, without subsequent border control checks.

During the symposium, commissioners of police, chief immigration officers,

comptrollers of customs, air and sea port managers and other high-ranking officials within the sub-region would discuss systems required for a harmonised border management, procedures and systems for full clearance at Immigration and Customs at the initial port of entry into the EUA, information sharing and intelligence gathering among border agencies and requirements and implications for the application of a Common Visa Regime.

(Excerpt from Caribbean360)

St Lucia PM clarifies change in nomination date

S

t Lucia’s Prime Minister, Dr Kenny Anthony has sought to explain the reason behind the change of date for nomination day for the June 6 general election.

In an address to the nation late Wednesday, the Prime Minister said while the change does not prevent or affect the nomination of any candidate intending to contest the general election, he apologised for any effect it may have on the religious faith of candidates.

This week, the Electoral Department announced the new date as today, instead of Friday 27.

In clarifying the circumstances that made this change necessary, Anthony stated “unequivocally that no consideration whatsoever was given on my part or any other person’s part, of offending or inconveniencing any candidate’s or person’s religious beliefs or faith” He said the sole consideration and motivation for the change was to ensure adequate time for the nom-

Prime Minister, Anthony

Dr

Kenny

ination of candidates and to preserve the date for the election as required by law.

The Prime Minister explained that the Elections Act does not, except in exceptional circumstances which do not apply, allow the date of an election to be changed by the executive or judicial branches of the Government of Saint Lucia.

He said on last Thursday, prior to his announcement

of the date for the general election on national television, that the Office of the Governor General was advised of the date for nominations and general election.

Anthony said that consequently, it became necessary for the Governor General to send to the Chief Elections Officer amending writs to correct the date for nomination day.

Earlier this week, Leader of the Opposition Allen Chastanet accused the prime minister of being insensitive to the religious beliefs of St Lucians by announcing June 6 as the date for the general election.

Chastanet said while the election date clashes with the one set by the Barbados-based Caribbean Examinations Council for regional students, including St Lucians sitting exams in Food and Nutrition and Additional Mathematics, nomination day also now clashes with the Sabbath of members of the Seventh-day Adventist community. (Excerpt

from Jamaica Observer)

he International Monetary Fund is projecting 0.5 per cent decline in the Belize economy this year, and is recommending sustained fiscal consolidation to stem the slowdown.

On the heels of the Article IV Consultation, the Fund said lowering public debt should be a top priority, requiring raising the primary fiscal surplus to four to five per cent of GDP by 2021.

It has suggested a number of revenue-generating

and expenditure cutting measures, including broadening the tax base and implementing other tax reforms, containing the public sector wage bill, initiating a parametric reform of the public pension system and strengthening controls in multiple areas of public financial management system.

“The economy is slowing and fiscal and external vulnerabilities are rising.

Falling oil production and multiple shocks in the pri-

mary sector reduced GDP growth to one percent in 2015. The decline in prices of energy and other commodities led to deflation in 2015, although the increase in fuel tax restored positive inflation, at 0.1 per cent in March. The current account deficit widened to 9.8 per cent of GDP as exports fell by nine per cent (mainly oil and marine products) and imports continued to grow, partly due to investment projects,” the IMF said following the May 11–25 visit.

(Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Bold and decisive measures will be taken to reduce crime, says Jamaica PM

P

rime Minister Andrew Holness says the Government of Jamaica will be taking “bold and decisive” measures to significantly reduce crime and violence in the country, particularly against the most vulnerable.

Among the measures to be implemented is a special process within the court system for the prosecution and trial of murders, which will serve to expedite the cases.

Making his presentation in the 2016/17 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, Holness said the Government will also be

Prime Minister Andrew Holness

amending the Bail Act, so that persons charged with murder will be ineligible for bail in some circumstances.

He further noted that the

law is to be amended to introduce mandatory minimum sentences for certain crimes. The prime minister said efforts to tackle lotto scamming, gangs and the narcotics trade will also be intensified.

Holness said the government intends to increase the fleet available to the Police by 400 cars and 200 motorbikes. Additionally, 30 new mobile Police stations will be built to increase the presence of the Police island-wide. The number of security officers is also to be increased from 12,000 to 14,000 over a three-year period. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Argentina’s last military dictator jailed over role in Operation Condor

A

rgentina’s last military dictator, 88-year-old former general Reynaldo Bignone, was today sentenced to 20 years in prison for his role in Operation Condor, under which an international death squad was set up by six South American military dictatorships during the 1970s and 80s. The plan allowed death squads from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay to cross into one another’s territory to kidnap, torture and kill political opponents who had fled across the border.

Most of the 105 cases of “illegal arrest” followed by death covered by the trial involved foreign nationals – 45 Uruguayans, 22 Chileans, 13 Paraguayans and11 Bolivians – killed while living in exile in Argentina.

Persecuted for political reasons in the military regimes in their own countries, many had escaped to Argentina before 1976, when the country became the last of the six nations to fall under a dictatorship.

After their arrest, the victims were made to “disappear”, usually by being cremated, or thrown drugged

but still alive from military planes into the Atlantic Ocean.

The sentences against 17 former officers on trial were read out by Judge Adrián Grünberg to a courtroom packed with victims’ relatives, who sat in stony silence during the lengthy reading.

Another high-ranking former general, Santiago Riveros, with jurisdiction over the densely populated suburban areas of capital city Buenos Aires and various clandestine detention centres, was sentenced to 25 years. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Tropical Storm Bonnie could be forming off The Bahamas

I

t’s becoming even more likely that Tropical Storm Bonnie could form in the Atlantic over the weekend. The National Hurricane Centre (NHC) said the area of low pressure northeast of The Bahamas has a 90 per cent chance of developing into a tropical or subtropical depression or storm as early as this weekend.

The Air Force Reserve is scheduled to send a plane this afternoon to gather in-

formation on the developing low pressure system.

“Shower activity associated with the low pressure area located between Bermuda and The Bahamas continues to show signs of organization, and the circulation of the low has become a little better defined overnight,” the NHC said this morning.

“Environmental conditions are generally conducive for a tropical or subtropical cyclone to form later today or Saturday while this

system moves west-northwestward to northwestward toward the southeastern United States coast.”

The system is developing just days before the official June 1 start of the 2016 Atlantic Hurricane Season.

If Bonnie forms, it would be the second named storm of the season, following on the heels of Hurricane Alex which formed in January in the northeastern Atlantic and moved through the Azores before weakening.

(Caribbean360)

saturday, may 28, 2016

guyana-times.com

15

Around the world

Syria: 100,000 trapped near Ethiopia children still missing Turkey as ISIL advances after cross-border raid

More than 100,000 Syrians are trapped near the Turkish border in Aleppo province, as fighters from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) group advance in rebel-held territory.

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) evacuated most of its staff and patients from the al-Salamah hospital – the organisation’s largest facility in Syria – near the town of Azaz on Friday as ISIL neared.

“We are terribly concerned about the fate of our hospital and our patients, and about the estimated 100,000 people trapped between the Turkish border and active frontlines,” Pablo Marco, MSF operations manager for the Middle East, said in a statement.

ISIL fighters have cut a key road between rebel-held Azaz, close to the

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Turkey has closed its border to all but seriously injured Syrians

Turkish border, and nearby Marea, journalist Maamoun Khateeb told the AFP news agency from Azaz. “This is a disaster,” Khateeb said, adding that some 15,000 people were now besieged in Marea.

Turkey has closed its border to all but seriously injured Syrians. Marea and Azaz both fell to opposition forces in 2012 and have been vital stops along a rebel sup-

ply route from Turkey. ISIL has tried to advance on both towns for months. In a statement on Friday, the group said it launched a “surprise attack” and seized a series of villages near Azaz.

Also on Friday, Government bombardment on rebel-controlled areas of Aleppo province left at least 15 people dead, rescue workers told AFP.(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

ozens of children are still missing after a cross-border raid on villages in the Gambela region of western Ethiopia by South Sudanese tribesmen.

Attackers from South Sudan’s Merle tribe killed 208 Ethiopian villagers, abducted 133 children and stole more than 1000 cattle last month.

“Many of those who were killed and the children who were taken were trying to escape,” one of the surviving villagers, Chawel Chan, told Al Jazeera. “They were run-

ning across the fields.”

Around 50 of the children have been released after negotiations with the tribesmen by the South Sudanese government but securing the release of the others is proving difficult.

The Ethiopian government has already conducted a cross-border military operation to free the remaining children. The government officials said they may conduct further military operations if the abducted children are not released.

Ten-year-old Gache

Debol was trying to rescue his younger sister when he was taken. His sister is still missing. “I thought they were going to kill me,” he told Al Jazeera. “I tried to escape a few times but they caught me and they beat me.

I thought I would never see my family again.” Villagers are still asking exactly who was responsible for the attacks, carried out by about 2000 armed men. The Merle tribesmen are feared for their cattle raids against other tribes in the area. (Excerpt

from Al Jazeera)

Obama mourns dead in Hiroshima, calls for world without nuclear arms

More than 2000 boat migrants rescued off Italy, more deaths feared

M

ore than 2000 migrants were rescued from boats in the Mediterranean on Friday, Italy’s coastguard said, as numbers soared for the third year running in the build up to summer.

Around 14,000 people were taken off often flimsy vessels over the whole week, the United Nations and the coastguard said, and hundreds may have drowned, survivors and boat crews added, though there are no official estimates of casualties.

Italian Navy ship Vega plucked about 130 people

off a “half-submerged” large rubber boat – one of 17 operations coordinated by the coastguard on Friday.

There were no details on how many were on board before it deflated.

The Vega recovered 10 bodies, Ansa news agency said. The coastguard and the navy said they could not confirm the number.

The coastguard said the warmer weather and calmer seas had led to a surge in the number of people trying to cross from Libya, where people smugglers operate with relative impunity. Numbers managing to

reach Italy were comparable to the same period last year and the year before.

Meanwhile, The Italian navy ship Vega recovered 45 bodies from the sea near a half-sunken rubber boat on Friday and rescued 135 people, according to a Tweet by the navy.

It was the third straight day that deaths have been reported in the Mediterranean, and agencies have reported a sharp rise in the number of people trying to cross to Europe as the seas turn warmer and calmer. (Excerpt from Reuters)

World’s scariest school run? Chinese children tackle 800-metre cliff

There are 17 vine ladders on the 800-metre-high way home, but the most dangerous part is a path on the cliff without a vine ladder

A

uthorities in SouthWest China have vowed to come to the aid of an isolated mountain village after photographs emerged showing the petrifying journey its children are forced to make to get to school.

To attend class, backpackcarrying pupils from Atuler village in Sichuan province must take on an 800-metre rock face, scrambling down rickety ladders and clawing their way over bare rocks as they go.

Images of their terrifying and potentially deadly 90-minute descent went viral on the Chinese internet this

week after they were published in a Beijing newspaper.

The photographs were taken by Chen Jie, an awardwinning Beijing News photographer. Chen used his WeChat account to describe the moment he first witnessed the village’s 15 school children, aged between six and 15, scaling the cliff. “There is no doubt I was shocked by the scene I saw in front of me,” he wrote, adding that he hoped his photographs could help change the village’s “painful reality”.

Chen, who spent three days visiting the impoverished community, said the

perilous trek, which he undertook three times, was not for the faint of heart. “It is very dangerous. You have to be 100 per cent careful,” he told the Guardian.

Api Jiti, the head of the 72-family farming community which produces peppers and walnuts, told Beijing News there had been insufficient room to build a school for local children on the mountaintop.

The trek to school is now considered so gruelling that the children have been forced to board, only returning to their mountaintop homes to see their families twice a month.

(Excerpt from The Guardian)

President Barack Obama hugs atomic bomb survivor Shigeaki Mori as he visits Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan May 27

B

arack Obama on Friday became the first incumbent US president to visit Hiroshima, site of the world’s first atomic bombing, in a gesture Tokyo and Washington hope will showcase their alliance and reinvigorate efforts to rid the world of nuclear arms.

Even before it occurred, the visit stirred debate, with critics accusing both sides of having selective memories, and pointing to paradoxes in policies relying on nuclear deterrence

while calling for an end to atomic weapons.

The two governments hope Obama’s visit to Hiroshima, where a US atomic bomb killed thousands instantly on AugUST 6, 1945, and some 140,000 by the year’s end, underscores a new level of reconciliation and tighter ties between the former enemies.

“We come to ponder the terrible force unleashed in the not so distant past,” Obama said after laying a wreath at a Hiroshima

peace memorial. “We come to mourn the dead, including over 100,000 Japanese men, women and children, thousands of Koreans and a dozen Americans held prisoner. Their souls speak to us.”

Before laying the wreath, Obama visited a museum where haunting displays include photographs of badly burned victims, the tattered and stained clothes they wore and statues depicting people with flesh melting from their limbs. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Greece’s Tsipras condemns sanctions against Russia

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he Greek Prime Minister has said sanctions imposed on Russia over its actions in Ukraine are not productive. The EU is expected to renew sanctions in a matter of weeks.

Alexis Tsipras was speaking at a joint news conference in Athens with the Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Putin said there would be “no discussions” about Crimea, the Ukrainian peninsula that was seized

by Kremlin-backed forces in 2014, leading to sanctions from the EU and US.

The territory, which has an ethnic Russian majority, later voted to join Russia in a referendum that Ukraine and Western countries deem illegal.

Prime Minister Tsipras told reporters: “We have repeatedly said that the vicious circle of militarisation, of Cold War rhetoric and of sanctions is not productive. The solution is dialogue.”

Putin said: “As far as Crimea is concerned, we consider this question is closed forever. Russia will not conduct any discussions with anyone on this

subject.”

Putin’s visit to Greece is an attempt to reinforce a relationship with one of Russia’s friends in Europe at a time when diplomatic tensions continue between Russia and the EU and US, the BBC’s Thomas Fessy in Athens says.

Putin also said that Russia would be forced to respond to US moves in Europe, warning that Washington’s missile shield bases in Romania and Poland were a direct threat to his country’s security. (Excerpt from BBC News)

16 news

saturDAY, may 28, 2016 | guyana-times.com

Residents complain of deplorable Diamond roads

The formation of a huge hole in the street of First Bridge

By Ramona Luthi

R

esidents and taxi operators of DiamondGrove Housing Scheme on Friday spoke to Guyana Times about the roads within the area, relaying that while some streets have been left to deteriorate, others only last a short time after being repaired.

The Diamond-Grove Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, has grown significantly over the years, housing hundreds of residents.

However, according to the residents, their main physical issue in the area, is the terrible state of the naked roads.

Residents complained that because of the deteriorated unpaved roads, taxi operators would deny them transportation to their homes, since the bumpy rides take a toll on the vehicles. “I live in 15th Street, and that’s a good way in.

The scheme got 21 avenues, excluding avenues A and B. When I stop out at the car park, no body don’t wanna take me home because my street bad. A set of holes along the road. The taxi men saying the road damaging their vehicles,” one resident identified as “Shanta” said.

Another Diamond-Grove inhabitant highlighted that his street consists of “sharp holes” and so whenever he drives along it, his car would “make a hard drop”, and this has caused him trouble

since he has to make checkups with his mechanic more often.

Denise Shortt, of Diamond-Grove told this publication that she has resided in the scheme for a number of years and though repairs have been continuously done on the roads, it has proven fruitless since it restoration does not last for any significant time: “I living in here for years and they keep repairing roads, all the time they repairing and repairing.

What’s the sense of doing temporary repairs? I know it can’t last forever but when they mek the

roads, by next two weeks, it bruk-up again. Watch in first bridge deh. They make up the first few front roads and left the others. Why? Just fuh nice up in front?

Come on man. This is ridiculous. It’s high time they fix it,” she said.

When Guyana Times spoke to a taxi operator of the scheme, he voiced that though he would at times give in and take people to their homes regardless of the rocky journey to get there, the deplorable roads serves as a great inconvenience to everyone since it proves to not only be tedious but costly to the vehicles that would traverse the area.

“Nobody don’t want go in them bad roads. Sometimes I does feel sorry for people and carry them in but the bad road really keeping people back. You know how much money yuh wasting for pay mechanic every time? And the people that don’t hav cars to carry them in, ga walk in no matter how far. They really should fix it, man,” said the taxi driver.

Parfaite Harmonie residents peeved over lack of streetlights, overgrown vegetation

R

esidents of Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WBD), have expressed frustration over the lack of attention being given to the housing scheme by the relevant authorities.

The residents revealed they have made several calls to the Ministry of Communities as well as the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) of MalgreTout, WBD, for the removal of overgrown vegetation from unoccupied house lots and for the provision of streetlights.

La Parfaite Harmonie is one of the largest housing schemes established by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) within the recent decade, comprising several plantations, namely Schoonord, Westminster, Onderneeming, Recth-DoorZee and Lust-En-Rust.

The residents are complaining that there are no lights on long stretches of roads. This, they say, has been aiding robbers who pounce on unsuspecting victims at night.

“We don’t have any street lights. Persons coming home

late in the night have to be extremely careful because these lil’ thieves does deh in all ah them dark corners waiting fuh ketch who them could ketch. Yet, yuh see them ain’t doing nothing fuh help ease the problem like give one or two streetlights,” Simone Marks a resident related.

She explained that the overgrown vegetation and trees that have taken over unoccupied lots are aiding the criminals as they often run through the bushes after committing their crimes.

She further pointed out that the community does not have regular Police patrols or even a Police Outpost.

Sherry Singh, a homeowner also voiced dissatisfaction over the lack of street lights and the poor maintenance of the unoccupied house lots: “We are plagued by mosquitoes and insects because of the overgrown vegetation on these house lots.”

She explained that many lots that were distributed are yet to be unoccupied, and the owners are not tending to their land, meaning it is overgrown with trees and shrubs.

Residents are pleading

with the authorities to install street lights in the housing scheme to prevent an escalation of crime. “Yuh know how much time we went to different people and newspapers asking them to highlight this problem? They highlight it yes, but still them people from the Ministry or Regional Office nah come and see fuh help the situation,” one resident complained.

Additionally, they are calling on owners of house lots not yet occupied to clear the lots of overgrown vegetation. The residents related that they are pleased with the decision by the CH&PA to confiscate unoccupied lots from the owners, as they say these errant land owners are adding to the problems of the communities.

Government has budgeted $5.279 billion to be spent on the housing sector this year. Most of this sum is slated to go towards community infrastructure works such as installation of electricity, streetlights, pure water supply and distribution network, and construction of roads, drains and drainage structures in eight regions.

Public Security Ministry pleased with “incident free” Jubilee celebrations

F

ollowing the successful hosting of two state events the National Flag Raising Ceremony and the Jubilee Float Parade – organised as part of the 50th Independence anniversary celebrations, the Ministry of Public Security said it is pleased that the events were “generally” incident free.

In a statement on Friday, the ministry commended the general public and the Guyana Police Force for their display of good citizenship. It was observed that the Police Force, supported by the Guyana Fire Service and the Health Services, coordinated efforts to ensure the general safety and security of the public.

According to the ministry, while citizens were in celebratory mode,

“our officers were working beyond the call of duty to deliver first-class operational and security support to the major events over the last two days.

These efforts included crowd control, traffic management, protection against possible terror threats and general public safety.”

“The Ministry wishes to offer special commendation to the traffic ranks who executed a well put together plan to minimize inconveniences to the traveling public. It is heartening to note that we were able to celebrate our Golden Jubilee almost without incident,” the statement detailed.

In addition, the ministry said citizens of Guyana and visitors who attended these mega events conducted themselves in a manner that

is praiseworthy. Nevertheless, as there are a few more events remaining on the official Jubilee Calendar of events, the ministry calls upon the general public to continue to demonstrate good citizenship and the security forces to continue to demonstrate resolve and dedication.

On another note, the Public Security Ministry extended condolences to the relatives of the late Roxanne Mitchell, who died as a result of a vehicular accident while returning home from the flag raising ceremony. “This loss of life is regretted.

The Ministry takes this opportunity to call upon the traveling public to obey the rules of the road and take care and caution when traversing our roadways,” the statement read.

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan

Jubilee babies delivered at GPH

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NEWS

SATURDAY, MAY 28, 2016 | GUYANA-TIMES.COM

Burnham Scholarship Trust gets $1M from GAC

–ANSA McAL gifted “Bundles of Joy” hampers

Members of the GAC handing over the cheque to BEST representatives in the presence of PNC Chairman Basil Williams

T

New mother Natalia Francis with Brand Representaive Joel Lee, Nurse Tamella Heywood, Sister Prescott and Nurse Charmine Pearson

By Ramona Luthi

B

abies are hope of new beginnings for parents. With their coos, squeals, giggles and wails these bundles of joy brightens any room with their presence. All expectant parents want the birth of a healthy, happy baby but to those 12 mothers who had their babies ar-

rive on the historic day of Guyana’s Golden Jubilee of Independence, it was beyond a special moment.

According to Public Relations Officer of the Georgetown Public Hospital, Mitzy Campbell, 12 beautiful babies were delivered within the 24-hour time span of the country’s Independence Day anniversary, noting

they were an equal share of six boys and six girls.

Meanwhile, as part of their contribution to the 50th Independence Jubilee Anniversary to the new mothers, Ansa McAl Trading Limited distributed “Bundle of Joy” hampers and congratulations expressed by brand representative Joel Lee.

New UG Vice Chancellor calls on President P

resident David Granger on Friday met with Professor Ivelaw Griffith at the Ministry of the Presidency.

Professor Griffith, who was recently appointed as the tenth Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana (UG), said that he sees his new position as an opportunity to give back to his country.

During the meeting, President Granger pointed out that there is not a single aspect of the university’s administration that does not require attention. He also assured of the Government’s commitment to providing financial and other support to restore UG to a position that is befitting of the nation’s premier tertiary education institution.

Meanwhile, the new Vice-Chancellor has already drafted a 12-point plan that is aimed at building a wider

President David Granger and Professor Ivelaw Griffith share a light moment during their meeting at the Ministry of the Presidency

portfolio of resources for the university. He said while Government’s support is essential, the alumni body, the diaspora and the international and business community can provide muchneeded support.

“UG needs much more than the Government can provide… We must find enterprising ways to make money,” he said.

Professor Griffith, who was the first person in UG’s history to graduate with distinction in Political Science in 1980, will officially assume office as ViceChancellor on June 14. He replaces Professor Jacob Opadeyi.

Earlier this month, the university inducted Professor Eon Nigel Harris as its ninth Chancellor.

he Guyana Action Committee (GAC) on Friday handed over a cheque for $1 million to the Burnham Education Scholarship Trust (BEST).

The money was proceeds of a fund-raising Gala and Dinner hosted by the USbased organisation at the Pegasus Hotel last Saturday.

The $1 million cheque was handed over to representatives of BEST in the presence of Chairman of the People’s National Congress, Basil Williams.

BEST was established in 2012 by then Leader of PNC and Opposition Leader David Granger and gives bursary awardes to children whose parents have affiliation with PNC. President of GAC Errol Lewis disclosed that about a year ago the Committee was asked to support the work of the Scholarship Trust and increase the number of awardees: “We thought that as this year would be the 50th year of Independence, we would host a gala and give the

proceeds to the Burnham Education Scholarship Trust so that they continue their work,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Operations Director of GAC Bonita Montague stated that the organisation is happy to make such a contribution, especially since it has a vested interest in literacy development in Guyana. She noted that the committee is particularly concerned about education status and thus wants to do whatever is necessary to help.

“For us, this is more than a donation; for us, it’s an exercise of changing lives, a commitment to humanity, building our future, developing Guyana and for us, it is developing literacy in Guyana,” Montague stated.

Moreover, the US-based organisation is calling on persons in the diaspora to do their part and support the development of Guyana in any way they can.

Meanwhile, representative from BEST Cheryl Sampson noted that since

the establishment of the Fund, they have distributed bursary awards of $30,000 per person to some 46 children from across Guyana.

She noted that these awardees are selected by the party’s regional representatives.

“BEST is particularly thankful for your contribution, it will be greatly helpful for those children who are selected to be awarded,” the Trust’s Board said.

The Guyana Action Committee has done several projects locally most of which aims at promoting and encouraging education among children. They have held annual literacy activities, information technology literacy programmes and constructed several recreational facilities throughout the country, among other projects.

Another area that GAC is passionate about is domestic violence and as such the organisation is working on constructing a transitional centre for women and children.

18

guyana-times.com

saturday, may 28, 2016

ARCHIE

ARIES

Don’t let emotional issues

(March 21- turn into a costly kerfuffle.

April 19) Pick up new skills or sign up

for a course that will help you utilize your knowledge and experience in unusual ways.

Do your homework before TAURUS you decide to make a move. A (April 20- new method of reaching one of May 20) your goals will reduce the energy and expense necessary to meet it, resulting in a rewarding outcome.

dilbert

An unexpected invite, opGEMINI portunity or personal gain is (May 21June 20) apparent. Take care of your responsibilities early so you don’t miss out on a chance to do something upbeat.

Romance looks promising.

Doing things differently CANCER will bring positive results and (June 21- unusual rewards. If you host July 22) an event or invite friends to your residence, someone will offer to help you with a homeimprovement project.

Peanuts

Your heart and your head LEO lead you in two different (July 23- will directions. A proposition will Aug. 22) be impossible to ignore, but is likely to cause friction with someone you are close to.

Calvin and Hobbes

You must be willing to comVIRGO promise today. Refuse to dis(Aug. 23- agree in order to avoid a quarrel.

Sept. 22) Allowing everyone to do his or

her own thing will buy you freedom to do so as well.

A brief vacation or shopLIBRA (Sept. 23- ping spree will do you good.

Oct. 23) Getting out and enjoying what life has to offer will also spur you to gain more knowledge and experience. Romance is encouraged.

Put your goals and needs

SUDOKU TODAY’S WORD –SPARKLE

WEDNESDAY’S WORD – GRADING

raging raid rain rang rani rind ring aging arid daring

darn dinar ding drag drain nadir nard niggard

Speak up and bring about change.

Don’t take unnecessary SAGITTARIUS risks with your money, rep(Nov. 23- utation or health. Protect Dec. 21) against being taken advantage of or being led astray.

Make personal and domestic moves.

(SPARKLE: SPARK-ul: Give off flashes of light; glitter.)

Average mark 30 words Time limit 40 minutes Can you find 44 or more words in SPARKLE? The list will be published tomorrow.

gain gang gird gnargradin grain grand grid grin grind

SCORPIO first. It’s time to be a little (Oct. 24- selfish in order to tackle projNov. 22) ects that are important to you.

solution for Last Published Puzzle

If you share your opinCAPRICORN (Dec. 22- ions, you’ll get the help you reJan. 19) quire to put your plans in motion. Open your doors to group meetings, or start renovations that will add to your convenience and comfort.

It’s a good day to put more AQUARIUS time and effort into self- and (Jan. 20Feb. 19) home-improvement projects that promise a better lifestyle and will point you in an exciting new direction. Make romance a priority.

Don’t let added responsiPISCES (Feb. 20- bilities get you down. Take March 20) care of your chores so that you can move on to more enjoyable pastimes. Reconnect with someone from your past.

SATURDAY, MAY 28, 2016

19

Warner powers Sunrisers Hyderabad to maiden IPL Final

A

David Warner solo effort helped Sunrisers Hyderabad defeat the Gujarat Lions by four wickets in Qualifier 2 and earn a passage to the VIVO IPL 2016 Final. Set to chase 163, SRH were powered by their captain, who finished with an unbeaten 93 and got the job done.

Warner picked up boundaries in each of the first five overs and raced to 25 from 18 balls. By that time though, he had already lost the company of Shikhar Dhawan

and Moises Henriques.

Before the halfway mark, Yuvraj Singh had also returned to the dressing room, having picked out the long off fielder after scoring 8.

The SRH skipper took it upon himself to do the job for his team. Despite wickets falling at the other end, the Australian played his natural game; he continued to find the boundaries regularly. He had hit seven boundaries and a six by the time he reached his half-century in the elev-

SCOREBOARD Gujarat Lions innings (20 overs maximum) ER Dwivedi c Boult b Kumar 5 BB McCullum c Kumar b Bipul Sharma 32 SK Raina* lbw b Boult 1 KD Karthik† run out (Boult) 26 AJ Finch b Cutting 50 DR Smith c Dhawan b Cutting 1 RA Jadeja not out 19 DJ Bravo b Kumar 20 DS Kulkarni not out 3 Extras: (w-5) 5 Total: (7 wickets; 20 overs) 162 Fall of wickets: 1-7 (Dwivedi, 0.6 ov), 2-19 (Raina, 3.2 ov), 3-63 (Karthik, 8.5 ov), 4-81 (McCullum, 11.6 ov), 5-83 (Smith, 12.4 ov), 6-134 (Finch, 17.3 ov), 7-158 (Bravo, 19.3 ov) Bowling: B Kumar 4-0-272 (w-2), TA Boult 4-0-391 (w-2), BB Sran 3-0-280 (w-1), Bipul Sharma 3-0-21-1, BCJ Cutting 3-0-202, MC Henriques 3-0-27-0

Sunrisers Hyderabad innings (target: 163 runs from 20 overs) DA Warner* not out 93 S Dhawan run out (McCullum) 0 MC Henriques c Dwivedi b Smith 11 Yuvraj Singh c Smith b Kaushik 8 DJ Hooda lbw b Bravo 4 BCJ Cutting c †Karthik b Kaush ik 8 NV Ojha† c Jadeja b Bravo 10 Bipul Sharma not out 27 Extras: (lb-1, w-1) 2 Total: (6 wickets; 19.2 ove rs) 163 Fall of wickets: 1-6 (Dhawan, 1.1 ov), 2-33 (Henriques, 4.1 ov), 3-61 (Yuvraj Singh, 8.2 ov), 4-75 (Hooda, 11.1 ov), 5-84 (Cutting, 12.3 ov), 6-117 (Ojha, 15.5 ov) Bowling: P Kumar 3.2-0-320 (w-1), DS Kulkarni 4-0-320, DR Smith 2-0-29-1, SK Raina 2-0-15-0, S Kaushik 4-0-22-2, DJ Bravo 4-0-32-2

enth over. He didn’t get too much of the strike in the next few overs, but when he did, he generally found the boundary and ensured the required run rate was kept in check. In the thirteenth over, he deposited one into the stand at midwicket, and in the fifteenth over put away Dwayne Smith for a six and a boundary off consecutive deliveries.

Warner found an able ally in Bipul Sharma after Naman Ojha had played a reckless shot to hole out to midwicket in the sixteenth over. Together, Warner and Sharma, added 46 runs in 3.3 overs to take their team past the finish line; the latter was the dominant partner in the partnership, contributing 27 from 11 balls (studded with three sixes), while Warner contributed 19 from 10 balls. Apart from hitting the boundaries and sixes, the pair also scampered between the wickets like hares to pick up five braces. The SRH skipper remained undefeated on 93; he hit 11 boundaries and three sixes in his 58-ball outing. SRH got past the target with four balls to spare, with the skipper fittingly scoring the winning runs.

For the Gujarat Lions, the chinaman bowler Shivil Kaushik was the best bowler; he and Dwayne Bravo picked up two wickets each, while Dwayne Smith ac-

counted for the wicket of Dwayne Smith.

Earlier in the evening, put in to bat, the Gujarat Lions’ struggles with their top-order continued. After losing opener Eklavya Dwivedi and skipper Suresh Raina for single-digit scores, the Gujarat Lions got to a competitive total, thanks mainly to Aaron Finch’s timely half-century. The Australian, who was dismissed for single-digit scores in his last two innings, walked out to bat in the ninth over with his team at 63 for 3. He hit a four and a six early on before Barinder Sran put down a regulation opportunity in the twelfth over.

Finch made SRH pay for that lapse in the outfield, scoring his fifth half-century of the season. When he was given width, he slapped the ball through the off-side, and on one occasion swung his bat hard to deposit the ball into the stands beyond long off. When the bowlers banged the ball in short, he stood back in the crease and muscled the ball through the leg-side. On one occasion, he deposited the ball into the stands at midwicket and one one other occasion he upper cut the ball to the thirdman boundary. He got to 50 with the aid of seven boundaries and two sixes.

In the 18th over, he charged down the ground and attempted to hit one out of the

Sunrisers Hyderabad captain David Warner carried his bat in Qualifier 2 against Gujarat Lions to set up a championship clash with Royal Challengers Bangalore on Sunday in VIVO IPL 2016

ground, but only managed to drag the full toss from Ben Cutting on to his pads and onto his stumps.

Finch had good company from Ravindra Jadeja, who remained unbeaten on 19 (15 balls); the sixth wicket pair added 51 runs in 4.5 overs and were chiefly responsible in taking the Lions past the 150-run mark. Brendon McCullum (32 from 29 balls), Dinesh Karthik (26 from 19 balls) and Dwayne Bravo (20 from 10 balls) were the oth-

er noteworthy contributors.

The Gujarat Lions finished with 162-7; they scored 38-2 in the Powerplay overs, 71-3 in the middle nine overs and finished with a flourish, adding 53-2 in the final five.

For Sunrisers Hyderabad, who were without the injured Mustafizur Rahman, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Ben Cutting picked up two wickets apiece, while Trent Boult – playing his first match of the season – and Bipul Sharma picked up a wicket each.

Who will win Champions League

Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid W

ill Real, who overcame their cross-city rivals 4-1 two years ago, win their 11th European Cup? Or is it to be Atletico's first-ever triumph?

The teams also met in the Champions League final two years ago in Lisbon when an error from then-Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas helped Atletico to go 1-0 ahead and were seconds away from winning a first European Cup only for Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos to equalise in injury time and his side ran out easy 4-1 winners in extra time.

Since that match there have been 10 derbis between the rivals from the Spanish capital, with Atletico coming out on top in their La Liga, Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup meetings. The last four competitive games between Real and Atletico have produced only four goals -- two for each side -- with Los Blancos progressing 1-0 on aggregate when they met in last year's Champions League quarterfinals, with the goal coming after Atletico

Real Madrid vs Ateltico Madrid

had Arda Turan sent off late in the second leg. Diego Simeone's side had put an end to 13 years without a derbi win by winning Spanish Super Cup against Madrid at the Bernabeu in 2013.

Atletico have roared through another European campaign, though, and will be out for a third major scalp having already eliminated tournament favourites Barcelona and Bayern Munich and their captain Gabi says he knows his team can beat Real Madrid once again in Saturday's Champions League final in Milan. And their skipper told

a news conference in Milan that while all those games were now in the past, his team could use the experience they had gained to pull off another victory on Saturday at San Siro.

"It was a cruel defeat, but we hoped to get another chance, and we have done that," he said. "What this team has achieved is very difficult, to reach two Champions League finals. With fortune and hard work we are here again. "I have dreamed of lifting the Champions League, but not since just now, ever since I was small. You always dream big

and tomorrow will be a great day for us. It is great to be back here again for all it means -- both in the match and around it.

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos says the team that makes the least mistakes are likely to lift the Champions League trophy on Saturday. "We'll have to be totally focused as finals are mostly decided on small details: the team that makes the fewest mistakes comes out on top," Ramos said.

Champions League all-time leading goalscorer Cristiano Ronaldo rounded off the rout two years ago,

netting his record 17th goal of the campaign, and a goal this weekend would see him become the first player to score in three finals.

The Portugal international will hope to once again put Atleti to the sword – with 16 strikes to his credit this season so far, a double in Milan will see him break his own record for goals in a single campaign.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo will start Saturday's Champions League final against Atletico Madrid in Milan -- a game he says is the "cherry on top" of both his own career and Madrid's long season.

The Portugal captain sat out a number of sessions as his team began preparing for the UCL decider, and limped out of training on Tuesday only to afterwards say that he would be ready to face Atletico for sure this weekend.

The finals will kick off at the San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy at 14:45 hrs (Guyana Time). (GOAL.com)

20

GUYANA-TIMES.COM

SATURDAY, MAY 28, 2016

Nadal withdraws Alvin Isaac Kallicharran but Murray and Part 2 Wawrinka sail on

Cricket and Independence

N

C

Alvin Kallicharran

ricket has played a pivotal role in the development of Guyana as a nation long before Independence in May 1966. There are a many outstanding Guyanese cricketers whose contribution to the glorious game will never be forgotten. Today Guyana Times Sport put the spotlight on Alvin Kallicharran. Yesterday we had a close look at Alvin Kallicharran’s early days and First Class Career, today we finish the two part series by examining his international playing days.

Playing for the West Indies

By the time New Zealand was touring the West Indies in early 1972, Alvin Kallicharran was competing with Lawrence Rowe of Jamaica for a place as a batsman in the West Indies Test team. Alvin made his Test debut against New Zealand in Georgetown, scoring 100 not out. He then scored 101 in his very next Test innings, against New Zealand in Port-ofSpain.

What many regard as his finest innings, 158 against England in Port of Spain in February 1974, was shrouded in controversy.

Having made 142, he watched Bernard Julien play the last ball of the first day to Tony Greig at silly point before walking down the pitch towards the pavilion never having returned to his crease from backing up.

Greig threw down the bowlers stumps and Alvin was given out by Douglas Sang Hue only to be reinstated next morning after the mood of the tour had been soured. Good mood was soon restored, however, as Kallicharran scored 119 in Bridgetown, add-

ing 249 with Lawrence Rowe, who went on to score a mammoth 302.

A century in India in November 1974, followed by another in Pakistan in March 1975, helped to enhance Alvin's reputation as a Test batsman. In Australia at the end of 1975, however, Lillee and Thomson was a whole new challenge. Despite getting a century in the first Test, his nose was broken by a top edge while hooking a Lillee delivery in the second Test.

In April 1976, a second innings century against India in Port-ofSpain failed to prevent India from scoring 406 for the loss of 4 wickets to win the Test. This was the highest successful run chase in Test cricket at that time.

Alvin's 1976 tour of England was ruined by a shoulder dislocation that necessitated an operation. It prevented him from throwing a cricket ball for a whole year but his recovery was total, restoring one of the best throwing arms in the game.

Another century in Port-of-Spain, in the first Test against Australia in early March 1978, helped West Indies to win by an innings. By the end of March, however, the series thrown into chaos, with only two Tests of the five-Test series completed. West Indies captain Clive Lloyd and most of the Test team had defected to Kerry Packer's World Series cricket.

Alvin's own attempt to join Packer foundered when it was discovered he had contravened a contract with a Queensland radio station. He was made captain of what was essentially a West Indies second string team, but gallant performances by the new players helped

to save the series against Australia. Alvin scored another century in the fifth Test to help West Indies save the match and win the series 3-1, after taking over the captaincy with the West Indies leading 2-0.

At the end of 1978, with the leading West Indies players still playing for Packer, Alvin led a second string West Indies team in a 6-Test series in India. He made 187, his highest Test score, to help West Indies draw the first Test. India barely won the fourth Test to take the series 1-0.

By late 1979 the Packer issue was resolved and Packer cricket was disbanded. Clive Lloyd resumed the West Indies Test captaincy for the tour to Australia.

Alvin scored a century in the third Test, to help West Indies win the series 2-0. This proved to be his last century, or half century, in Test cricket.

The tour to Australia was followed by the infamous tour to New Zealand, in which Croft and Holding expressed their displeasure with the umpiring in very emphatic terms. Alvin had a rather ordinary tour, bagging a pair of ducks in the first Test but scoring a half century in the second.

Following two lean series, in England and Pakistan in 1980, he was dropped unceremoniously by West Indies, having scored 4,399 runs in 66 Tests at an average of 44.

Alvin Kallicharran was part of the 1975 and 1979 team that won the Cricket World Cup. In a famous encounter in the preliminary rounds in the 1975 World Cup in England, he scored a brilliant 78 against Australia, in which he punished Lillee severely.

adal pulls out of French Open with wrist injuryWhile Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka booked fourthround berths, a wrist problem brought Rafael Nadal's French Open campaign to an end.

Rafael Nadal was forced to withdraw from the French Open due to a wrist injury, while Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka eased into round four.

The Spaniard called a surprise media conference on Friday, one which he described as "the hardest of his career", to announce he would be unable to continue competing at Roland Garros this year.

Murray and Wawrinka, meanwhile, stride on in the tournament having overcome Ivo Karlovic and Jeremy Chardy respectively.

Milos Raonic maintained his flawless tournament by accounting for Andrej Martin 7-6 (7-4) 6-2 6-3, while Nick Kyrgios was beaten in straight sets by home hope Richard Gasquet.

NADAL PULLS OUT

There will be no 10th French Open title for Nadal in 2016. The Spaniard confirmed he had required an injection in order to play through his second-round match against Facundo Bagnis, but said doing so again would not be an option.

"We spent a lot of hours here to try to play and yesterday I played with an injection in the wrist and anaesthetic," said Nadal, who had been due to face Marcel Granollers on Saturday.

Rafael Nadal was emotional in his news conference

"I came here, had an MRI and the results are not positive. It's not 100 per cent - it's not broken but if I keep playing it's going to be broken in the next couple of days."

The world number five will hope for a swift recovery with Wimbledon and the Olympic Games on the horizon.

MURRAY AND WAWRINKA ADVANCE

Having been taken to five sets by Radek Stepanek and Mathias Bourgue in the opening two rounds, there was a pleasing change in tune for second seed Murray.

The Brit only dropped one game in the opening set before completing a 6-1 6-4 7-6 (7-3) victory over Karlovic in less than two hours, setting up a fourthround clash with John Isner.

Despite being broken in the opening game, Wawrinka marched to a straight-sets triumph over Chardy. The Frenchman was unable to match the defending champion's power as he was beaten 6-4 6-3 7-5.

NISHIKORI TAKEN THE DISTANCE

When Kei Nishikori took a two-set lead against Fernando Verdasco it looked like it would be a third successive straight-sets win for the Japanese, but his rival fought back to force a decider.

Nishikori came out on top 6-3 6-4 3-6 2-6 6-4 to take his record in decisive sets to 92-26 - the best differential of players with over 16 matches in the Open era.

"It was a tough, tough five sets," said Nishikori.

"He started playing much better in the third and fourth, and even the first couple of games in the final set, too. So it wasn't easy, but I'm very happy to win."

TROICKI BREAKS SIMON HOODOO

In his six previous meetings with Gilles Simon, Viktor Troicki had failed to win a single set.

He put that right on Friday, though. The Serbian stormed to a comfortable 6-4 6-2 6-2 win over the 16th seed, and Wawrinka awaits him in the fourth round.

(Sportsmax)

Kaka replaces Douglas Costa in Brazil's Copa America squad A

left-thigh injury has kept Douglas Costa out of the Copa America Centenario, with Kaka drafted into the Brazil squad in his place.

Kaka will replace the injured Douglas Costa in Brazil's 23-man squad for the upcoming Copa America Centenario, it was announced on Thursday.

Bayern Munich midfielder Costa, who played in the club's penalty shoot-out win against Borussia Dortmund in the DFB-Pokal final last week, was ruled out of the Copa America due to a leftthigh injury.

Brazil coach Dunga elected to replace him with Orlando City midfielder Kaka, who has contributed five assists and scored twice in seven appearances in the MLS this season.

Kaka

Kaka made his Brazil debut under Luiz Felipe Scolari in 2002 at the age of 19, and has gone on to play 91 times for the national team.

Brazil are looking to win a ninth Copa America title at the special Centenario edition of the tournament, held in the United States next month. (Sportsmax)

YELLOW PAGES SATURDAY, MAY 28, 2016 | WWW.GUYANA-TIMES.COM

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SPORTS

Batsmen dominate another ORSCA round

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Ryan Bhup (right) collects a trophy for his splendid knock last weekend in Toronto

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T

oronto - Four centuries were recorded last weekend in the continuation of the RoundArm Softball Cricket Association (ORSCA) 20over competition at various venues across the Greater Toronto Area.

Former Guyana youth player Shaun Deonandan slammed 131 for Anaconda while Pegasus’ Ryan Bhup hit 129 and Navin Latchman of 11-Man Army scored 113.

Navin Sooklall also of 11-Man Army joined in the runs fray with 101.

In the bowling department, Navin Indardeo of Sunrisers bagged five wickets for nine runs from four overs to highlight things while Mike Kadir captured 5-11 also off four overs representing Spartans.

Apart from the on-field action, president of the association, Mitch Bacchus is pleased with the proceedings so far in this year’s edi-

tion and very optimistic that the season will continue to be excited.

The new T20 ‘test’ format starts on Sunday and the inauguration is promised to be similarly fascinating. Both teams will bat twice. The game is four innings……

“I guess this would be interesting too; so far I [am] satisfied with the way things have been going; there are some great performances as you can see both the batsmen and bowlers doing well,” Bacchus declared.

Over 25 teams are currently participating in both the West and East End divisions, an indication that the association is seen tremendous growth, according to the leader.

“We have got a large number of teams coming out and play competitive cricket; we want to ensure [everything] is in place and we have got Disciplinary Committee set up as well; we believe in standard and the good thing about it that

every player and team adhering to the laws and rules,” Bacchus mentioned.

Since the formation of the association in 2012, several players who would have represented Guyana and Canada at the highest level are featuring.

Some of the names are Hemnarine Chattergoon, Damodar Daesrath, Zaheer Haniff (Guyana only), Sunil Dhaniram, Shiv Seeram, Azib Alli Hanif (Guyana only) while a large number of youth players from Guyana also engaged on an annual basis. Some of these players are: Troy Gobin, Andy Chinsammy, Rovendra Mandolall, Ejaz Mohamed, Riaz Kadir, Dillon Heyliger, Troy Gonsalves among others.

Meanwhile, history was created last year when Avish Rukhram registered 1,040 runs from 15 matches.

The belligerent left-hander also cracked a double-century when playing for West End Side.

ENG V SL, 2ND TEST, DURHAM

Hales, Root reinforce solid England effort but catching lifts Sri Lanka

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Angelo Mathews leapt to hold a sharp chance at first slip off Siriwardana to dismiss Alex hales

S

ri Lanka might have feared the only thing they could catch in Durham would be a cold, but instead they caught a collection of stunners to keep England just about in sight on the opening day of the second Test. Four of the wickets would easily fit into a 'classic catches' compilation and though the final score of 310 for 6 was healthy enough for England - and given the fragility of Sri Lanka's batting may already be enough - there was a wastefulness about the dismissals.

Both England's openers missed milestones; Alastair Cook left waiting a little longer still to reach the 10,000-

run milestone which he has been on the cusp of since January and Alex Hales throwing away the chance of a maiden century for the second innings running. Joe Root's iffy conversion rate did not improve when he fell for 80 and shortly before the close the in-form Jonny Bairstow, after adding 70 in 19 overs with Moeen Ali either side of the new ball, bottom edged Nuwan Pradeep who finished the day with a worthy 3 for 69.

Sri Lanka struck each time partnerships started to form. Hales and Root added 96 for the third wicket, the highest stand so far after Nick Compton's lean run had continued when he was

spectacularly caught at long leg by Suranga Lakmal from a top-edged hook. Hales moved to his fifty off 102 balls, clumping Rangana Herath over mid-on, but fell the ball after lofting Milinda Siriwardana straight for six when he tried to cut the left-arm spinner and Angelo Mathews held a stinging catch to his right at slip.

There would have been a strong temptation for Cook to stick Sri Lanka in on overcast morning after they managed just 91 and 119 in similar conditions last week at Headingley. However, the occasional signs of uneven bounce and some turn for Herath suggested he made the correct call.

22

GUYANA-TIMES.COM

SATURDAY, MAY 28, 2016

RIO Olympics should be moved or postponed— Scientists M

ore than 100 leading scientists say the Rio Olympics should be moved or postponed over the Zika outbreak. The group says new findings about the virus make it "unethical" for the games to go ahead in an open letter to the World Health Organization (WHO).

They call on the WHO to urgently revise its guidelines on Zika, which is linked to serious birth defects.

The International Olympic Committee said it sees no reason to delay or move the games due to Zika. The outbreak of the mosquito-borne disease began in Brazil a year ago, but now more than 60 countries and territories have continuing transmission.

Zika's symptoms are mild, but in the letter the experts say it causes babies

to be born with abnormally small heads and may also cause a rare and sometimes fatal neurological syndrome in adults.

The letter is signed by 125 international scientists, doctors and medical ethicists from such institutions as Oxford University and Harvard and Yale universities in the United States.

They cite the failure of a mosquito-eradication programme in Brazil, and the country's "weakened" health system as reasons to postpone or move the Olympics in "the name of public health".

"An unnecessary risk is posed when 500,000 foreign tourists from all countries attend the Games, potentially acquire that strain, and return home to places where it can become endemic," the letter says.

The biggest risk, it adds,

is if athletes contracted the virus and returned home to poor countries that had not yet suffered a Zika outbreak.

The Rio Olympics take place between August 5-21.

The WHO, which has declared the Zika virus a global public health emergency, is yet to comment on the letter.

On Thursday, the head of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, whose advice is quoted approvingly in the letter, said the threat did not warrant halting the games.

"There is no public health reason to cancel or delay the Olympics," Dr Tom Frieden said.

But he also urged the US to act more quickly to prevent pregnant women contracting Zika, amid congressional deadlock over the release of $1.9bn (£1.3bn) in funding. (BBC)

Today is Match-day for Practical Shooters T

he Guyana Sport Shooting Federation (GSSF) will hold a practical pistol match today at the Guyana Defence Force Yarrowkabra Ranges, Timehri.

The match which is scheduled to start at 13:30 hrs is sponsored by Secure Innovations & Concepts Inc. and all Practical

Shooters are invited to participate.

The Minimum Rounds will be 80 and registration is $2,000 and closes upon the firing of the first shot on match day. Rules will be in accordance with the latest United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) handgun rule book and Production &

Limited are the Divisions that will be recognized.

Armscor ammunition will be available on the range and prizes will be given to the top three overall per division.

The GSSF also states that only persons who are recognised practical shooters will be allowed to register.

Hamilton top in Monaco GP practice

CFU Men’s Cup

Golden Jaguars off to Curacao

H

ead Coach of the Guyana Men’s National Team (Golden Jaguars), Jamaal Shabazz, has named a 19-man squad to face off Curacao and the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) in the second leg of the Caribbean Football Union’s Caribbean Men’s Cup scheduled for the 1st and 4th June, 2016 respectively in the named countries.

The team consists of nine over-seas based players including Sheldon Holder and Pernel Schultz (Trinidad and Tobago); Samuel Cox, Jake Newton and Ricky Shakes (England), Walter Moore (Finland); Brandon Beresford and Emery Welshman (U.S.A) and Christopher Nurse (Puerto Rico).

The Golden Jaguars departed Guyana yesterday for Curacao and will play

Curacao at the Ergilio Hato Stadium at 20:00hrs on June 1st. Guyana’s second game will be played against USVI at the Adelita Cancryn Playing Field, St. Thomas, USVI on June 4th beginning at 16:15hrs.

Guyana has been placed in Group Three of the fivegroup second Round phase of the Tournament. Round 3 of the Championship will begin in October 3-11; Fifth Place Playoff November 7-15; and the finals are scheduled for May 2017.

The full squad for the upcoming CFU qualifiers include: Alex Andrew Murray (Alpha United), Jake Newton, King Solomon Austin (Alpha United), Colin Nelson (Alpha United), Lester Jacobs (Slingerz FC), Eon Alleyne (Fruta Conquerors FC), Ricky Shakes (Boreham Wood FC,

England), Emery Welshman (Real Salt Lake, USA), Devon Millington (Slingerz FC), Daniel Wilson (Alpha United), Dwight Peters (Alpha United), Quincy Adams (Slingerz FC), Brandon Beresford (Seattle Sounders 2nd team, USA), Pernel Schultz (Caledonia AIA FC, T&T), Sheldon Holder (Caledonia AIA FC, T&T), Walter Moore (FF Jaro FC,Finland), Samuel Cox (Boreham Wood FC, England), Christopher Nurse (Puerto Rico FC) and Trayan Bobb (Slingerz FC).

The Technical Squad includes Jamaal Shabazz (Head Coach), Wayne Dover (Assistant Coach), Andrew Hazel (Gk Coach), Anson Ambrose( Trainer), Duane Saunders (Physiotherapist), Trevor Burnett (Equipment Manager), Earl Paul (Equipment Officer) and Rawle Adams (Manager).

Lewis Hamilton was in a class of his own at Monaco

L

ewis Hamilton was in impressive form as he headed Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg in first practice at the Monaco Grand Prix.

The world champion ended the session 0.101 seconds quicker than the German, with Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel third and Red Bull's Daniel Ricciardo fourth.

Hamilton tamed the difficult track faster than any of the other drivers.

He was well over a second - and sometimes nearly two - quicker than Rosberg in the opening half-hour.

How quickly a driver can get to the limit at a track that is bounded by walls and run on normal city streets is always regarded as one of the best measures of the level of their naked talent.

Hamilton's first flying lap was 1.472 seconds quicker than Rosberg managed on his second lap.

Rosberg then went 0.1secs quicker, only for Hamilton to beat him by 1.839secs with a lap of one minute 18.302.

Their next laps, in succession, were: Rosberg 1:19.129, Hamilton 1:17.381, Rosberg 1:18.585, Hamilton 1:16.588, Rosberg 1:18.480.

After a break, Rosberg did a 1:17.890, which Hamilton followed with a 1:16.097; Rosberg did a 1:15.835, then Hamilton a 1:15.537, before his teammate finally got down to 1:15.638.

From Hamilton, it was the sort of performance that defines an image, that will be remembered down the years as illustrative of a towering talent.

He then made a couple of errors, cutting the chicane after misjudging his entry, and then going straight on at the first corner Ste Devote, without any damage.

Late in the session, Rosberg suffered a puncture to his left rear tyre after running over and dislodging a drain cover at Ste Devote, which subsequently punctured the front right tyre and shattered the front wing of McLaren's Jenson Button, the next car along.

In an incident-packed session, there were two crashes - Renault's Jolyon Palmer went too fast and wide into the fast Tabac corner and smashed into the barrier and Williams's Felipe Massa crashed at Ste Devote early in the session.

It was bad timing for the Englishman and the Brazilian, both of whose places in F1 are already looking vulnerable beyond the end of this season.

Vettel ended the session 0.419secs off Hamilton's pace and 0.352secs quicker than Ricciardo, who is one of two drivers using a new, upgraded Renault engine that is said to have about an extra 30bhp.

The other is Renault's Kevin Magnussen, who ended the session 17th fastest.

There was no sign of the promised improved form from McLaren-Honda, who arrived in Monaco expecting to be able qualify both cars in the top 10.

Fernando Alonso ended the session 13th, 1.882secs off the pace, two places and 0.082secs ahead of Button.

GCB regrets the passing of Umpire Sukdeo Reggae Boys defeat

T

he executives and staff of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) have learnt with great sadness of the passing of Guyana and regional umpire, Gayanana Sukdeo on May 24, 2016.

We extend our condolences to his family, friends, umpires and the entire cricket fraternity. He was always a pleasant individual, ready to assist anyone in whatever way he can. His demise is a great loss to the members of the sub-associations across

Guyana, the players and officials.

Sukdeo has given loyal service to the game of cricket and through his quality of his work, earned the respect of players and spectators at the local, national, and regional levels. He was part of the junior panel of umpires for the WICB since 2011 and did duties for the Under-15, Under-17 and Under-19 Tournament.

He was also a standby umpire in the WICB PCL 4-Day

competition.

Losing a loved one is never easy; our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time we share their pain and grief.

May his soul rest in peace!

Meanwhile, Sukhdeo, who in his playing days was an opening batsman for the Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) first division team will be cremated on Sunday May 29 at the Good Hope Crematorium, East Coast of Demerara.

(BBC Sport)

Copa champions 2-1 C hile missed their chances as they suffered a shock 2-1 loss to Jamaica in a friendly heading into the Copa America Centenario.

Jamaica stunned Chile 2-1 in their pre-Copa America Centenario friendly in Vina del Mar on Friday.

Juan Antonio Pizzi's Chile, who are looking to de-

fend their Copa title in the United States, had their chances but were punished at the Estadio Sausalito.

Clayton Donaldson's first-half opener and Joel Grant's goal after the break sealed the win for Winfried Schafer's men before Nicolas Castillo needed some luck to pull a late one back with his first international goal.

Chile had numerous opportunities, particularly before going 2-0 down, but were left to rue their misses at home.

They get another chance to find form with a clash against Mexico on Wednesday, just days before their tough Copa opener with Argentina.

GUYANA-TIMES.COM

SATURDAY, MAY 28, 2016

Grenada PM urges ‘antiquated’ WICB not to resist change G

renada’s Prime Minister Keith Mitchell has lambasted the leadership and governance structure of the beleaguered West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) as “antiquated” and has once against urged the organisation to reform itself.

Mitchell said the WICB had refused to adapt to a swiftly changing society and global business environment, and said troubled waters lay ahead for the board if it continued on its present path, reports CMC. “The leadership of the WICB has changed repeatedly, to make my point, in the last few decades. Yet the board’s governance and performance has not improved,” Mitchell said at the UWI Cave Hill Campus here on Thursday as he delivered the 19th Sir Frank Worrell Memorial lecture entitled “West Indies Cricket in the 21st Century: Continuity and Change”.

“This is not a personality issue. The one thing that has remained constant over the years is the board’s rigid and antiquated structure. By now the board should have learned that by reshuffling its leadership, without changing its thinking and structure, is just a futile attempt at adjusting its structure without reforming its leadership.”

“It can’t work. The two things must be done together.”

Mitchell, who has been in the forefront over the

The Golden Mile is on tomorrow

Esan Griffith (PRO), Winston Missiger, Aubrey Hutson, Kwame Rigby, Carey Griffith, Nigel Mattan (Manager – 704 Sports Bar) and John Fagundes

T Dr. Keith Mitchell Mitchell, Honourable Prime Minister of Grenada and Chairman of CARICOM’s Cricket Governance Committee

past year in efforts geared towards getting the WICB to re-structure, repeatedly hammered the governing body in his hour and 10-minute long presentation, also arguing it had lost touch with the players.

Referencing the tension that existed between the WICB and the players, Mitchell said it was incumbent on the board to modify its management style and operations to reflect the needs of the new generation of cricketers.

“The attitudes of today’s young people is very different to that of previous generations. We have to accept it,” he contended.

“Their expectations and values will not allow them to accept the decisions and actions of the WICB that their predecessors agreed to or tolerated.”

“The WICB must come to terms with that reality and alter its approach ac-

cordingly. It must build trust and new mutual respect by changing the way its managers operate and motivate its players and itself.”

Mitchell, who stressed he had nothing to gain personally from the effort to restructure the West Indies cricket, said the board was unaware of the new challenges that lay before it and was not preparing itself to face them.

Stressing on the need for transparency and accountability, Mitchell pointed out that while players needed to take responsibility for their actions, the WICB leadership had often absolved themselves of blame.

As such, the veteran Caribbean leader said that key to any governance shake-up would be a “new leadership” model which would enhance the WICB’s ability to flourish in a new generation. (V Cricket)

he Professional Key Shop and Windjammer Hotel & Cuisine have joined forces to make the “Golden Mile” a reality. The one mile race is set for Sunday May 29 in central Georgetown.

At a press conference held the 7O4 Sports Bar, event organizers Kwame Rigby and Carey Griffith assured the media that the race which coincides with Guyana’s Golden Jubilee of Independence celebrations will attract some of the biggest names in running including, Cleveland Ford, Cleveland Thomas, John Fagundes and the sensational Winston Missigher who won two 10k races last Sunday.

There will be juniors, se-

B

Promoter and former Amateur Boxer Sean Bristol

sisted in overseas travel and contributed towards the encampment of boxers.

Bristol, the nephew of former Commonwealth ju-

nior middleweight champion Kenny Bristol, stated that he will be looking to his uncle and former Commonwealth lightweight champion Lennox Blackmore to make the onenight card a success.

He further stated that this event will help to develop our young talent and prepare them for other engagements and hopes it would be a memorable one.

“This event is not about making money but rather giving back to the sport and allowing those from the diaspora, back home for the Anniversary, to have a look at our young and upcoming fighters. My belief is that it is a fitting thing to do” he added.

niors and masters categories for both male and female with finishers from first to fourth in each category receiving prizes. Both of the organizers who are regular competitors in 5 and 10K runs revealed that the male winner is guaranteed a whopping $75,000. They also encouraged runners and supporters of the sport to be present since there will be lots of prizes to be won.

President of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) Aubrey Hutson said that his office was very pleased to be associated with the event while ensuring that safety of the athletes will be a top priority. He also commended Messrs Rigby and Griffith for taking the initiative in supporting track &

field which promotes participation from a health stand point and competitiveness from the perspective where standards can be raised.

Registration fee is $1,000 and may be done at the Professional Key Shop, Carmichael Street (6988845) or at the (AAG) office, 125 Light Street Alberttown (231-7106/7).

The one mile road race will start at 16:00 hrs outside of the 7O4 Sports Bar on Lamaha Street and proceed west along Lamaha Street then south into the eastern carriageway of Carmichael Street, finishing in front of the Professional Key Shop/ Oasis Café building.

The organizers hinted at having the “Golden Mile” on an annual basis.

Professional Boxers at the Olympics – A Dangerous Gamble

President of the AIBA Dr. Ching-Kuo-Wu

Independence Golden A Jubilee amateur boxing set for tonight oxing Promoter Seon Bristol of Bristol Promotions, in collaboration with the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will be hosting a Jubilee amateur card this evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) starting at 19:30 hrs.

The event will feature competition from mainly the youths, juniors and school boys’ categories with the emphasis on development of our young boxers, GBA is looking to stage 15 bouts on the card.

Bristol, a former amateur boxer and manager, has been a source of support for the sport for some time.

In the past he has donated equipment and trophies, as-

23

IBA (L’Association Internationale de Boxe Amateur) is accredited as an International Sports Federation (ISF) by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to govern boxing at the Olympic Games and all of its qualifying events and tournaments. International Sports Federations are international non-governmental organizations recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as administering one or more sports at world level. While conserving their independence and autonomy in the administration of their sports, International Sports Federations are required to ensure that their statutes, practice and activities conform to the Olympic Charter.

All countries wishing to have their boxers participate in the Olympics and Olympic qualifying events must necessarily have their local national amateur federations affiliated to AIBA. They must conform to AIBA’s rules and regulations. The Guyana Amateur Boxing Association is no exception.

The AIBA had recently in-

structed all national associations to effect changes to their names to delete the word ‘amateur’. Indeed Guyana like every other country, unable to resist the dictates by AIBA for fear of being unlisted and unable to attend Olympic qualifier games had no choice but to acquiesce. The Guyana Amateur Boxing Association was directed to change its name to the Guyana Boxing Association.

The latest bombshell on allowing professional boxers into the Olympics has now been announced by AIBA. An example of this is the announced willingness of world champions, Manny Pacquiao and Wladimir Klitschko to accept the invitation of Dr. Ching-Kuo-Wu (President of AIBA) to participate in Rio with the special privilege of not having to compete in the preliminary rounds.

Should this happen and Dr. Wu is able to push through his ill-advised plan, the young and relatively immature amateur youths in the 147 lbs welterweight category can well find themselves facing the enormous experience and power of Pacquiao.

None of these amateur fighters would ever have faced anything like the enormous, explosive power of a Pacquiao. What AIBA President, Dr. Wu proposes for the Olympics, breaches all good sense and risks the health and wellbeing of our young fighters presumably only for their apparent dream of controlling all boxing and particularly the profits associated with professional boxing.

The WBC’s (World Boxing

GBA President Steve Ninvalle

Council) reaction has been immediate. Its President Mauricio Sulaiman has announced formally that any WBC champion or boxers ranked in the top 15 of the WBC who fights in the Olympic games will be immediately banned from the WBC and stripped of their Titles.

The Guyana Boxing Board of Control strongly rejects AIBA’s proposal and call on the National Sports Commission and our Government to monitor this development.

The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) is very much aware that the final AIBA executive meeting for voting in ratification of this travesty is to take place next week. President of GBA, Steve Ninvalle will have a vote at that meeting. One can only hope that he does not vote in favour of extinguishing the Olympic hopes, dreams and aspirations of young fighters all over the world including Guyana who cannot hope to compete against seasoned professional fighters including World Champions in bouts that will certainly have the potential to damage them for the rest of their lives.

SATURDAY, MAY 28, 2016

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