Guyana Times Daily

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 2862

Saturday, May 21, 2016

E-Networks, Quark Inc cable companies owe NFMU $60M Page 3

New independence arch commissioned

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Guyoil raises kero prices P9

17-year- P10 old “brain dead” teen succumbs PSC continues advocacy for P8 establishment of commissions

Page 9

Drug mule jailed, fined P8 $16.3M

Local hotels fully booked for jubilee – Hughes P2

PPP will not be deterred by threats – Jagdeo Page 7

CCJ dismisses Guyana land appeal case P11 – cites fraudulent sale

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, Member of Parliament Irfaan Ali along with members of the People’s Progressive Party executive on Friday conducted a walkabout around the city and Stabroek Market Square to address concerns of city vendors. This is the first of a series of walkabouts which the Opposition Leader will be conducting in commercial areas countrywide

Fire ravages Campbellville house

Page 16

Pedestrian, vehicle overpass for East Bank Demerara highway Page 10

Demolition of “Dread shop”

P2

“Council was never restrained by any order of court” – M&CC

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saturDAY, may 21, 2016 | guyana-times.com

Hotels fully booked for jubilee – Hughes

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ith Guyana just a few days away from observing one of its most monumental events, the Public Telecommunications and Tourism Ministry has recorded a high tourist influx to Guyana, the result of which has hotels across the country filled to capacity, leading to more persons opening their homes as part of the “Bed and Breakfast” initiative.

This was confirmed by Tourism Minister Cathy Hughes, who told Guyana Times on Friday that the feedback has been “tremendous” in terms of tourists and the Diaspora showing their interest in being a part of the grand celebrations.

The Minister additionally reported that the support from the Guyanese population has been outstanding as more persons are indicating their interest in opening their homes to house the tourists.

Hughes related that only on Thursday, 60 persons had turned out at the Ministry to enlist their names and undergo training to be part of the “bed and breakfast” initiative which is being implemented to facilitate the large turnout expected from the Diaspora.

These training sessions, according to the Minister, provides a comprehensive approach to how these persons can house their guests, and what is expected of them.

“The people are excited to get on board with the initiative and they are ready to go,” she noted.

Since rooms are booked at the hotels, Hughes announced that persons visiting from the Diaspora or those in

Tourism Minister Cathy Hughes

Guyana, who are looking for a city hotel, need to first make contact with the Ministry so that they could assist in locating places for them.

She said that once contacted, the Ministry may be able to assign a place under the “Bread and Breakfast” initiative where the guests can stay for the period of time leading up to the anniversary, and after.

According to the information received, frequent inspections of the premises earmarked to house the impending guests are carried out by the members of the initiative’s committee.

The Tourism Minister outlined that restaurants across the city have recorded a significant improvement in their businesses as the demand for fast food is escalating with the increased number of visitors from the Diaspora.

Smaller restaurants, however, have reported that their businesses remain the same since many are not aware of the locations, and prefer the larger food outlets, Hughes said.

Nonetheless, it has been reported that there is an

overall improvement to the tourism sector in Guyana, as the long list of activities are attracting a large number of tourists from countries across the world.

Even before most of the activities had been hosted, the number of tourist arrivals had been on the rise, as airlines had recorded a boost to their services.

Hughes said that as early as March, hotels and airlines were all booked up as persons, on hearing of the events, rushed to purchase tickets and make reservations.

The Tourism Ministry, prior to the lead up to the 50th anniversary celebrations, had expressed optimism about the positive responses they would receive as the country celebrates its independence.

Over the past months, a number of events have been planned to mark the Golden Jubilee Anniversary.

Most persons, however, are anticipating the Jubilee Float Parade set for May 26, which will pattern of the Republic Day float parade.

Demolition of “Dread shop”

“Council was never restrained by any order of court” – M&CC

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n a press release by the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) on Friday, it was indicated that the demolition of the 48-year-old business known as “Dread Shop” at the Stabroek Square, Georgetown, did not breach any court order.

According to the release, the “Dread shop” was an unlawfully erected formation, as it fell within the district of the “council area” as stated under the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01. It was stated that numerous reports were made to the M&CC, alleging the involvement of immoral activities being permitted at and around the entity.

The M&CC’s statement highlighted that notice to vacate the premises was given to the “Dread Shop’s” owners by the council in ample time.

It was then the proprietors began engaging the courts without informing Council.

Thus the Mayor and City Council contended they were never restrained by any court order, since they were not involved in any proceedings pertaining to this matter.

It was further highlighted that had the council been aware of an existing court order against the removal of the illegal structure; they would have abided by the judicial orders.

Proprietor of the business Anthony Forde’s lawyer Nigel Hughes however, had accused City Hall of disobeying the court order. According to Hughes, the dispute over the “dread shop” is presently ongoing in the Court.

“This has got to be the

The demolished Dread Shop structure

most outrageous act I’ve seen in a long time because [the matter is] actively going to mediation on the recommendation of the Court of Appeal and then they failed to turn up at the mediation and the Court of Appeal still has conduct of this matter and they believe they can disregard this act,” Hughes posited.

The attorney explained that after he called the City Engineer on Thursday afternoon, Town Clerk Royston King then confirmed that demolition had indeed happened.

“I believe that where people decide that they are not going to obey the law of the land and where they are not going to obey the outcomes of the court proceedings to deal with this particular piece of property then we are in a very dangerous state,” the attorney had posited.

Hughes had further said: “There is a dispute right now between Mr Patterson’s Ministry and the City Council about who actually owns this square because it was donated by the Russell

family [while] the Ministry [of Public Infrastructure] claims it is their territory and the city council claims it is their territory.”

Meanwhile, also slated for demolition is the nearby “Island Snackette” which has been in operation for a similar time.

Proprietor Abeola Fung told this newspaper that her family has invested “millions of dollars” to improve the standard of the business. They claimed that City Hall said their structure will also be torn down. Fung further related that some years ago City Hall had approved a plan for rehabilitation works to their structure.

City Hall has been relocating vendors and stall owners in a move it said will see a transformation of the Stabroek Market Square.

While some vendors have welcomed the change, others have protested the shortshrift initiatives of City Council, viewing them as “unfair” and “uncaring”.

news

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saturDAY, may 21, 2016 | guyana-times.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, May 21 – 14:30h-16:00h and Sunday, May 22 – 05:30h-07:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, May 21 – 16:10h-17:40h and Sunday, May 22 – 16:45h-18:15h.

E-Networks, Quark Inc cable companies owe NFMU $60M

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Thundery showers can be expected in the morning while heavy rainfall is expected to dominate in the afternoon. Partly cloudy skies with chances of thunder showers can be expected in the evening.

Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-easterly between 2.23 metres per second and 4.47 metres per second.

High Tide: 03:27h and 15:50h reaching maximum heights of 2.58 metres and 2.53 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 09:25h and 21:37h reaching minimum heights of 0.62 metre and 0.69 metre respectively.

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

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Managing Director of E-Networks Vishok Persaud

Managing Director of MovieStar Brian Young

ollowing a forensic audit conducted on the National Frequency Management Unit (NFMU), it was revealed that two of the major providers of cable services in Guyana – E-Networks and Quark Inc (Movie Star) – reportedly owe $60 million in broadcasting fees.

According to the audit report published on the Finance Ministry’s website on Friday, E-Networks owes $31 million while Quark Inc owes $29 million for spectrum usage. The forensic audit was conducted by Ram and McRae Chartered Accountants.

According to the accounting firm, a number of operational issues were discovered in the accounts department, particularly in the areas of billing and debt management. These issues, the auditor found, were mainly due to the fact that the department was not complying with its Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs); thus resulting in some 264 credit balances to the value of $66.5 million at the end of May 2015.

The report outlined that E-Networks had not been billed for several years and it was explained that no invoice could be issued without the Prime Minister, who is the subject Minister, having agreed to the amount chargeable.

Moreover, the audit report stated that since its establishment in April 2004 to provide wireless Internet service, the NFMU had to issue warnings four times to E-Networks during the period April 4, 2004 to February 18, 2007, for operating telecommunications equipment to provide Internet and television service without ownership of the relevant licences.

“Throughout the period… E-Networks ignored the requests for compliance from the NFMU and did not properly apply for a Post and Telegraph Licence until December 2007,” the report stated while adding that “no action was taken to ensure compliance and no payments were made to the NFMU until December 4, 2007.”

It was further highlighted that the company provided wireless Internet services to their customers without being licensed to do so during the period 2004-2007 and was broadcasting cable

(Broadband) services were provided to the local population in accordance with the Post and Telegraph Licence held.

According to the accounting firm, the first invoice sent by the NFMU to Quark Inc was dated July 29, 2004 for the period April 1, 2002 to December 31, 2004 since no invoice was sent prior to this even though the company was utilising spectrum to provide Internet services.

Ram and McRae noted that the company was required to pay $2,235,000 for the period April 1, 2002 to December 31, 2004 and $1,200,000 was paid on September 14, 2004 while an additional payment of $235,000 was made on November 29, 2004. A balance of $800,000 is still outstanding, the report stated.

Furthermore, it was outlined that another invoice of $1,300,000 was sent to Quark Inc on September 28, 2005 for the period ending December 31, 2005. Of this amount, $800,000 was paid on January 17, 2006, leaving a cumulative balance for the two years of $1,300,000.

The auditor went on to say that on April 5, 2007, NFMU Managing Director Valmikki Singh emailed the owner of the cable company, indicating that the Unit was aware that Quark Inc was operating a number of sites and issued to the company an invoice for another $5,200,000 for the years 2006 and 2007. This invoice included estimated charges for undeclared sites amounting to $2,600,000.

TV without ownership of a broadcasting licence during 2006-2012.

Ram and McRae further noted that no spectrum fees were billed to E-Networks for the 2.5 GHz band used to supply cable TV during 2010-2013 and that the NFMU invoiced E-Networks $7,560,000 for spectrum used to broadcast cable TV during the year 2014.

In light of these revelations, it was recommended that immediate steps be taken to determine and recover the full amount owed.

As it relates to Quark Inc (Movie Star), Ram and McRae disclosed that during the forensic audit, they discovered that the company has outstanding debts to the NFMU dating back to 2004 for spectrum used to provide broadband Internet services, however at the same time it was found that the Unit failed to issue any invoice to the company for spectrum usage since May 23, 2007.

The report explained that the estimated $29 million owed by Quark Inc is in comparison with a balance of $3,535,000 as stated in the Aged Receivable Listing. Like in the case of E-Networks, the NFMU management explained they were awaiting a determination of the fee structure by the Prime Minister.

“We believe that the amount owed is substantial and recommend that immediate steps be taken to determine and recover the full amount owed,” Ram and McRae stated in its report.

In 2002, Quark Inc was granted a Post and Telegraph Licence, which permitted the provision of Internet services only.

Subsequently, Internet

However, on May 23, 2007, the cable company paid $500,000 to the NFMU, leaving a balance of $6,000,000. There is no evidence of further payments on the account but yet the Aged Receivables listing at May 31, 2015 reflect a constant balance of $3,535,000 for years and period ended December 31, 2012-2014 and May 31, 2015.

Ram and McRae said that there was subsequent correspondence between Quark Inc and the NFMU which included written request for and approval of the use of additional frequency spectrum, application for spectrum to establish 4G TD-LTE network and issuance by Office of the President of a Mobile Network Code (MNC) for the usage of Mobile Country Code 738.

The auditor pointed out that since the NFMU did not have an application form tailored to cable TV operators, Quark Inc wrote them requesting the use of frequency spectrum but all the necessary information was not provided to complete the application process.

It was explained to Ram and McRae that the reason is that the NFMU did not invoice Quark Inc since the law does not provide a method to calculate fees for cable TV operators.

To further compound the matter, the auditor underscored that since Quark Inc has made no payment to the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA), it is therefore not a licensed broadcaster.

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saturdAY, may 21, 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

Living longer, healthier lives

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he World Health Organisation (WHO) published its latest report “World Health Statistics 2016” which among other things, details the life expectancy rate in various countries of the world. As expected, some useful facts are included in the report which could guide policymakers and governments as it relates to improving the health and living conditions of citizens so that they could live longer and healthier lives.

“World Health Statistics: Monitoring Health for the SDGs” contains data from 194 countries on a range of mortality, disease and health system indicators, including life expectancy, illness and death from key diseases, health services and treatments, financial investment in health, and risk factors and behaviours that affect health.

The report points to the “dramatic gains” in life expectancy that have been made globally since 2000, but noted the fact that major inequalities persist within and among countries. For example, the report states that life expectancy increased by five years between 2000 and 2015, the fastest increase since the 1960s. The increase was greatest in the African region of WHO where life expectancy increased by 9.4 years to 60 years, driven mainly by improvements in child survival, progress in malaria control and expanded access to antiretrovirals for treatment of HIV. The report adds: “Global life expectancy for children born in 2015 was 71.4 years (73.8 years for females and 69.1 years for males), but an individual child’s outlook depends on where he or she is born. The report shows that newborns in 29 countries – all of them high-income – have an average life expectancy of 80 years or more, while newborns in 22 others – all of them in sub-Saharan Africa – have life expectancy of less than 60 years”.

With an average lifespan of 86.8 years, women in Japan can expect to live the longest. Switzerland enjoys the longest average survival for men, at 81.3 years. While people in Sierra Leone have the world’s lowest life-expectancy for both sexes: 50.8 years for women and 49.3 years for men.

This year’s World Health Statistics brings together the most recent data on the health-related targets within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015.

While the Millennium Development Goals focused on a narrow set of disease-specific health targets for 2015, the SDGs look to 2030 and are far broader in scope. For example, the SDGs include a broad health goal, “Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages” and calls for achieving universal health coverage.

Of note too is that the report includes data that illustrates inequalities in access to health services within countries – between a given country’s poorest residents and the national average for a set of reproductive, maternal and child health services.

Everyone wants to live a full, healthy and productive life.

Some persons are very health conscious in their lifestyle habits; they eat healthy, exercise regularly and so on. But in addition to this, they expect that the State would make the necessary investments in ensuring that certain key interventions are made to support a healthy population; such as modern hospitals staffed with competent health professionals, specialised healthcare, high quality medical supplies, etc.

In Guyana, life expectancy rates over the past decade or so have seen remarkable improvements; and this is due to a number of factors. Guyana has a life expectancy rate of close to 71 years. Life expectancy has risen from 40 in the 1960s to 61 by 1970 and that remained the same by 1990. However, critical interventions in the health sector have allowed for further improvements in health care delivery which resulted in life expectancy rates going up to about 64 for males and 71 for females.

This country can now boast of a life expectancy rate that is similar to many other Caricom countries. However, in order to ensure that Guyana’s life expectancy rating improves further, Government must continue to make the necessary investments in the health sector with the aim of improving health care delivery; for example, the Specialty Hospital is needed urgently. Citizens must not only be able to access affordable health services but the services provided must be of an extremely high standard.

The Education Ministry through its Department of Culture, Youth and Sport in collaboration with Caribbean Airlines, the 50th National Commemorative Commission, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Digicel, the Telecommunications and Tourism Ministry and the Guyana Tourism Authority welcome incoming passengers to Guyana for the Golden Jubilee Festival

OAI needs drastic restructuring

Dear Editor, I refer to a letter published in another section of the media on Wednesday May 18, 2016 headed, “Correia’s Companies not Air Services and Roraima Airways invested the money required under the lease agreement with the Government”.

This letter was signed by Anthony Mekdeci, CEO of Ogle Airport Inc. I will not answer for Roraima Airways as they are quite capable of answering for themselves. But on behalf of Air Services Limited, I wish to briefly clarify the situation and to correct Mekdeci. I will ignore for the time being the nonsense stated by Mekdeci that Ogle Airport is 100% built, owned and operated

by Ogle Airport Inc. (OAI).

That is a falsehood.

Our company was present at Ogle from the begin-

ning and then invested in OAI. We knew then and we know now that Ogle Airport is a state-owned airport where OAI holds a lease to operate the facility.

Minister Patterson has already explained all of this so there is no need to repeat it here. ASL wishes to correct the statement that it failed to invest in the airport when called upon.

The records would show that the board controlled by Michael Correia deliberately refused to accept the funds offered by the ASL Group but instead accepted funds from Correia’s related companies. This had the effect of not only diluting the shareholdings of the existing shareholders but as planned by the Correias gave them a dominant position as equity shareholders. This enabled the Correia Group to own over 60% of the shares and OAI became a member of the

Correia Family Group, in total contradiction to what the original five shareholders and the Government of Guyana had in mind.

Since OAI became part of the Correia Family Group of Companies, it made little sense to make significant investments. Under the “Leadership” of Correia and Mekdeci, the company lost over $140 million to end of 2014 according to the audited financial statements and it never declared dividends.

Which businessman in a state of sanity could or would invest more money in a company run like that?

Additionally, the company’s auditors PKF Barcellos qualified the audit report and stated clearly that the company was in clear violating of the lease agreement.

The only shareholders making money from investment in OAI are the

Correia’s not through dividend payment and profitability but through other means.

The board is completely dominated by Correia and his associates, five out of the seven directors, and the company is basically operated as if owned by the Correia family. Air Services Limited is always prepared to invest in OAI even after its investment funds were refused but cannot see how it can do so now in the present environment.

OAI needs to be dramatically restructured and to return to the original ideas of the founders for it to be attractive to any businessman with an ounce of common sense.

Respectfully, Capt Ahamad Mazahar Ally Managing Director Air Services Limited

Urgent investigation by IDB board needed Dear Editor, A section of the media published the full list of agencies that forensic audits were conducted, the names of the auditors and the value for the first 45 contracts. Whilst the name of the auditors for those funded by IDB (Nos 46 -50) were revealed no contract value was mentioned.

Several public requests made weeks ago for IDB to make public the names and contract value of the auditing and the procurement process used to contract these auditors have to date not being made available to the public by the IDB. But

given the publication of the names of the auditors and the fact that no public advertisement or procurement process were done for them it is clear that these auditors financed by the IDB has been single-sourced by the bank.

Considering that the entities in question (GPL, GWI, GNSL, GRA, LPC) are large and complex entities, it is reasonable to project that the cost will be simple or higher for similar large entities like Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, Guy Oil, Gold Board, GPL, GRA and GWI and it is reasonable to esti-

mate that the cost of these audits will be in the range of $8-10M. Five entities at $10M per audit means that the IDB has single sourced contracts to the value of $50M in approximate value.

The non-disclosure and refusal of IDB to make this information public is also worrisome and suspicious and points to a lack of transparency and corruption in IDB’s procurement process.

IDB cannot possibly justify sole sourcing as an acceptable method of procurement in this case when there is such a large pool of qualified and available ac-

countants and auditors in Guyana.

This multimillion-dollar deal must be immediately put on hold and the IDB head office, regional country manager and IDB board must conduct urgent investigation to the alleged acts of corruption, mismanagement and misuse of resources inclusive of the lack of transparency in the contracting of these forensic auditors. A criminal misconduct investigation must also not be ruled out.

Yours faithfully, James Cornelius

guyana-times.com

saturDAY, may 21, 2016

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M&CC has always been NTC concerned about accusations of malpractice sympathetic to vendors Dear Editor, The National Tosahos’ Council (NTC) is expressing its deep concern over the numerous articles published in the media by someone purporting to represent the indigenous peoples of Guyana and accusing the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) of malpractice at various levels.

The NTC wishes to distance itself from this(ese) organization(s) or person(s) and categorically state that those views and articles do not represent the indigenous position.

It must also be noted that the NTC sees these articles not only as contrary to constructive ongoing dialogue with the IDB as civil society partners, but also as irresponsible in nature considering the IDB’s role in Guyana as a development partner to Guyana.

From the signing of the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) project agreement in February 2014, there have been funds that have been budgeted for institutional support for the NTC and other indigenous NGO’s.

In December 2014 funds were initially disbursed to the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) as the executing agency to facilitate the commencement of the FCPF project as determined by the GFC but laid dormant.

As of June 2015, no activities related to the project had taken place and to avoid cancellation of the project, the IDB recalled the initial disbursement of funds advanced to the GFC to reset the clock on the funds and the project.

The IDB has formally communicated to and confirmed to the NTC and the indigenous beneficiary NGOs of the FCPF project, that all resources remain available to the project and to the Government of Guyana Most recently it was identified to the indigenous NGOs that the new implementing agency for the FCPF project is the Ministry of Natural Resources.

This news now gives us – the NTC and applicable NGO’s, an opportunity, with the government’s support, to finally access these funds for institutional support for the NTC and other NGO’s to build our capacities for REDD+ as one priority area of the FCPF project.

Also, the NTC and the FCPF beneficiary NGOs recently received a communication from the IDB in response to a letter sent to the World Bank and the IDB complaining of the conduct of the IDB’s Guyana office in handling the FCPF project.

The IDB in keeping with its principles of transparency responded to the complainant’s concerns and shared their response and all the FCPF project documents and policy guidelines with the beneficia-

ry stakeholders It would appear that the complainant to the World Bank, though knowledgeable of the IDB’s role in Guyana to support development, has made some accusations that may have arisen out of a lack of understanding of the IDB’s and the Government’s role in the LCDS and execution of the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) project in Guyana, respectively.

As per the contractual agreement between the IDB as the delivery partner and the Government of Guyana, the procurement and fiduciary functions of the FCPF project are the responsibility of the executing agency; now the ministry of Natural Resources. Contrary to what was written in the press, the project agreement and procurement plans which is publicly available on the IDB’s website does not cater for any direct transfer of funds to any other organization or entity.

Based on the letter sent to the IDB and the IDB’s communication to the beneficiary stakeholders, the NTC has formally submitted a request to the IDB for an independently facilitated meeting engaging ALL stakeholders to the FCPF project to clear up all issues – real and perceived - as it relates to the FCPF project, the IDB’s role, and the Government of Guyana’s role in the implementation of the project.

We are of the expectation that all stakeholders, including the ones publishing in the media, will be in attendance when such invitation is issued to avoid any missed opportunities to appropriately communicate to the relevant personnel all their concerns regarding the funds, implementing agency, and institutional conduct - if so desired.

This, we firmly believe, is the most appropriate mode to achieve the transparency and accountability that is sought by the various authors of the various articles and may prove exceptionally useful to alleviating any fears or misunderstanding of the various stakeholders’ positions.

The NTC looks forward to this meeting and to the potential it holds to achieving the objectives laid out in the NTC’s request.

The National Toshaos Council is a body comprised of all the Toshaos of all the 212 indigenous communities of Guyana. As such we are charged with representing all 75 000 plus indigenous peoples of our 9+ indigenous nations Sincerely, Lenox Shuman Vice Chair National Tosahos’ Council

Dear Editor, The Mayor and City Council has a determined and sustained sanitization and management plan to ensure the integrity of the public health of the city and to elevate Georgetown to the status befitting the Capital of our nation. This could not be achieved before May 11, 2015 because the council and the city were degraded by a previous administration. Prior to May 11, 2015, all efforts by the council to make Georgetown a better place were prevented from going forward. It was a very sad situation. Not things have changed and the council can now move forward to create a modern city.

However, it is clear that some people are bent on creating mischief, disorder and seem to want to encourage negative environmental and other public health habits.

Notwithstanding that, we are very confident that our citizens understand what

the council is attempting to achieve, including improving their profitability by ensuring that they are properly placed to do good business in the central business district of the city.

Also, it is common knowledge that, the council has always been sympathetic to the vendors. This is amply demonstrated by the numerous initiatives taken by the council to provide facilities and other related things for them to ply their trade.

As recent as a few weeks ago, more than 250 vendors were relocated to other sites prepared by the council, at its own expense, to allow vendors to ply their trade.

However, there must be order and excellence.

Citizens would agree that in just a few months, the results of the efforts of the Town Clerk and the council to positively reshape Georgetown are very visible.

This would help in boosting the confidence of inves-

tors, promoting a clean and generally healthy environment, creating employment, and improving our economy.

Ultimately it would result in a good life for all.

In another few days, the Town Clerk will present a Situational Awareness Report on the street vending issue, to Council.

The report is expected to make clear recommendations to the council on different options and approaches to address street vending in Georgetown, and to allow the Council to go forward with its plan.

Council continues to encourage all vendors and stakeholders to cooperate with the plan to lift Georgetown to a new plateau of excellence Sincerely, Debra Lewis Public Relations Officer (ag) Mayor and City Council

Self-centred, self-serving, self-indulgent Dear Editor, I have seen a letter to the media from Mr Gerry Gouveia seeking to personally denigrate Mr Michael Correia and his family which can only be described as self-centered, selfserving, self-indulgent and narcissistic.

I respond only because Mr Gouveia has insulted both myself and Captain Chan-A-Sue by claiming that Mr Correia, at Board Meetings, shouts us into silence. Anyone who knows Captain Chan-A-Sue, to say nothing of myself, and reads this nonsense is bound to find it laughable. It, however, demonstrates the extraordinary low level to which Mr Gouveia is prepared to descend in public to express his ire.

My company has provided professional public communi-

cation consultancy services to a very large number of highly regarded companies and corporations here in Guyana, in the Caribbean and, from time to time, internationally. My company has also represented Ogle Airport Inc. for over 15 years. I can say without hesitation that Michael Correia is one of the finest CEO’s I have been privileged to work with.

In the course of these years, I have witnessed, under Michael Correia’s leadership, the extraordinary growth of what is today the Eugene F. Correia International Airport from a light aircraft facility with a tiny airstrip built mainly for the purpose for accommodating Guysuco’s crop dusters, to a first class Regional International Airport.

It cannot be gainsaid that,

though the idea and original commitment came from five local aviation companies, including Gouveia’s company, to form Ogle Airport Inc. to bid for the privatization of Ogle Airport in 2001 when the Airport was ruled as unsafe by the International Civil Aviation Authority and threatened with closure, it was Correia’s company and Correia’s determination to stay faithful to the commitment when the others balked at the investment. It is mostly Correia’s money that has built the International Airport from which Gouveia’s company and the others operating out of the

Airport and, indeed, Guyana, benefit today.

For me, it is unthinkable that Gerry Gouveia, whose company’s contribution to the investment in the Airport is 2 ¼ per cent, should attack the Correia family in this ugly public fashion. What has been achieved at Ogle, it is worth reminding Mr Gouveia, when he makes self-serving comparisons with his own achievements, has never depended on political patronage for its success.

Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento Managing Director

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Foundation

Teach private parts safety to protect Protect your child from sexual predators your child from sexual abuse by breaking through

By Kate Power

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e’ve seen the headlines and heard the horrific stats about child sexual abuse. But for many of us, teaching our young children about private parts safety can fall into the “I must do that” bucket, which means it may never get done or when we do, it’s not effective. There are lots of reasons why – we naively think, “it won’t happen to my child”; we don’t believe the statistics (one in five girls and one in 20 boys – how can that possibly be true?); we want to maintain our child’s innocence; we may not feel comfortable with the subject ourselves; we have too many other priorities, etc.

But what if there was a way to make it simple, quick and effective? What if it was actually kind of fun for your child, easy for you, and you didn’t need to go into the darkness of the subject matter? Here’s how:

1. Lighten the mood

It’s undoubtedly a serious subject, but young children seldom respond to, “Let’s have a serious talk.”

And let’s face it, our private parts are funny – they make funny noises and have funny names. Children know this too – they giggle about the subject and learn lots of different names from their family and friends, whether we like it or not. Acknowledging this first and allowing the laughter to get out of the way both engages your child and clears the path for the serious discussion.

2. Make it important

Our adult relationship with our sexual organs can be complex, but to a child, it’s simple. They’re important to our body’s function, and

they’re vulnerable, so they must be protected. That’s really all your child needs to know, but their importance needs to be stressed.

3. Make it memorable

Think back to your childhood and reflect on the lessons you learned best. What made them memorable?

Rhymes, colourful drawings and association with positive emotions are powerful memory tools. For example, I started my children’s book My Underpants RULE! with the following: “What’s under my pants belongs only to me, and others can’t touch there or ask me to see, but safe grown-up or doctor when I’m not healthy, What’s under my pants belongs only to me....”

It is better to make a child feel empowered about their body than scared of the bogey man, which is a myth anyway (about 90 per cent of offenders have a close relationship to the child). So give them simple, clear instruc-

tions that come immediately to mind whenever a difficult situation arises.

4. Teach clear action strategies

Empowerment comes from

clarity of action. Research from survivors shows one of the most common responses when first confronted by a predator is to freeze, because they don’t really understand what is happening. So the “What would you do if...?” game is a great way to trigger action in moments of stress, because it generates a recognition of the present danger.

It’s also important to make clear to your child what to do after anything happens – that it’s essential to immediately tell someone they trust, who they can trust, and that secrets about private parts should never be kept.

5. Reinforce with repetition

When your child wants to listen to her favourite song again and again, it’s not because she’s being annoying.

It’s because that’s how young minds learn. Harness this and repeat what you want your child to learn often. I recommend at least once a month. You know a lesson is

learned when she can teach it to you without hesitation.

Your child will let you know when she’s had enough, in any case!

stereotypes

6. Start young

The earlier we begin the conversation with our children about protecting themselves, the better. With studies showing the majority of onset of sexual abuse happening between ages three and eight, it’s important to begin the discussion sooner rather than later. Also, an alarmingly increasing trend is of offenses being committed by another child. We want our children to socialise at an early age, so make sure they’re aware of what is appropriate and inappropriate behaviour.

7. Raise its priority for you

An educated child is far less likely to encounter difficult situations, because predators look for vulnerability.

In fact, silence and vulnerability are what they prey on.

Unfortunately, the offence of child sexual assault in the United States exists in all communities and it doesn’t discriminate in terms of income level, race, creed or colour. The estimates of one in five children being sexually assaulted in some way before they’re 18 are frighteningly real, and many experts feel this is an underestimate.

But this isn’t about statistics; it’s about your child! As a parent you are in the front line of defence against this scourge.

Fifteen minutes per month can save a whole world of pain for your child and your family. This has to be a major priority, doesn’t it? (Parenting.

com)

By Joelle Casteix

N

obody loves a stereotype better than a child sex predator. Whether the stereotype is about the “creepy guy in the trench coat,” the “hot for teacher” fallacy, our collective denial of incest, or our emphasis on “stranger danger,” predators know that the more parents rely on stereotypes, the easier it is for those predators to gain easy access t o vulnerable children.

Stereotype No. 1: Most abuse happens as a result of stranger abduction or by use of force.

This stereotype is one

of the most widely believed and the most damaging. It has kept victims silent and children at risk for decades.

And it all boils down to our over-reliance on “stranger danger.”

Even now, when it comes to educating and empower our children about abuse, parents and educators continue to focus on abduction. The media is quick to follow along, continually covering stories about child kidnappings and attacks. And that’s exactly what the vast majority of child predators want us to focus on.

According to the California Attorney General’s office, approximately 90 per cent of children who are sexually abused in the United States know their abuser.

While it is important to talk to your child about stranger danger, it is even more important to empower your child against the other 90 per cent of predators – the ones you willingly invite into your home.

Stereotype No. 2: Incest only happens to other people.

That is simply not true.

Incest happens everywhere.

No matter who you are, where you come from, your socio-economic background, or your pedigree, you can have a family wracked by incest.

In fact, half of the 90 per cent of abusers cited above by the California Attorney General are family members, including parents, grandparents, siblings, cousins, aunts or uncles.

Incest does happen – even in the best of families. Often, the victims never come forward to report the abuse out of fear of hurting the sibling or other family member that the child still loves.

(Parenting.com) TO BE CONTINUED

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saturday, may 21, 2016 | guyana-times.com

PPP will not be deterred by treats – Jagdeo

By Kizzy Coleman

O

pposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has declared that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) will not be deterred by threats staged to intimidate the party as the welfare of Guyanese is of ut-

Jagdeo assured that his party will address the concerns of the people, noting that the city needs to be cleaned, but at the same time, the livelihood of the people matters greatly.

However, the walkabout was not without interruptions as a group of about

“They need to clean the city in a way that allows the people to still make a living, and they can do that. They can meet with people and talk to them and have them prepare for changes, not go one day and pull down their stalls. It is this heavy-handed approach that this Government is known for.” most importance.

This comment was made by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo during a walkabout around Stabroek Market Square on Friday to address concerns of the vendors.

Accompanied by top leaders of the party, Jagdeo sought to speak to the disgruntled vendors who engaged him, voicing their many concerns, especially

15 persons presumably organised by members of the APNU/AFC with intent to disrupt the proceedings, verbally abused the Opposition Leader.

A widely known APNU/ AFC activist called ‘Bull Dog’ who made headlines in March last for assaulting a Benschop supporter during the Local Government Elections campaign, verbally abused Jagdeo and his

tried to interact with the Opposition Leader.

As the team walked into the Parliament View Mall, where the relocated vendors are now situated, they were met with chants of abuse from the group and others following them. People were appalled by the behaviour of this crowd especially during this 50th Independence period.

Following the walkabout a press conference was held where Jagdeo said controversy was to be expected, especially at the market area: “Going out, I said to my colleagues that we have to expect controversy because I knew what was going on there.”

He divulged that the walkabout was undertaken after the party was approached by a number of vendors who were being intimidated by ‘thugs and activists’ of the current administration.

“Today we saw a display of that, as about 15 of them who were clearly with political directions to disrupt the opportunity of people who are faced with severe hardships, raising their issues with me.”

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and team being escorted to the location where the vendors have been relocated

about the recent “anti-business” actions by the Mayor and City Council (M&CC).

team.

In the process, he openly pushed at anyone who

The Opposition Leader assured however that despite the interruptions, the

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo is greeted by a vendor on Regent Street during his walkabout on Friday

cries of Guyanese have been heard.

He noted that the attempts being made to “bully” the people and deter them from voicing their concerns will not be successful: “I want to assure all those people who have encountered difficulties, the taxi drivers, the vendors, the people who are plying their trades there, that we have heard their cries even though they couldn’t raise them with us today, this attempt to disrupt and bully people will not deter us, we will not be deterred from fighting for this country and fighting for what is right for the people.”

He noted that as the President and Prime Minster refused to meet with the people, they are disrupting any attempts made to engage them.

This, Jagdeo said, shows

the “desperation” of the government who will not talk to the City Council to ensure that the people are being treated with respect.

He explained that the current administration have not given directions to the City Council to ensure that though they clean the city, they do so with a conscience.

“They need to allow people, who have been plying their trade for 20, 25, 30 years around the market square legally, lawfully, those who have loans to pay and children to feed, to continue to earn a living, too.”

The ‘destructive’ actions by the M&CC Jagdeo explained, have been disguised as ‘a cleanup’.

“Under the disguise of cleanup, everything could be done now, the destructive behaviour of the city council pulling down people’s stalls

and sending them into areas where nobody goes.”

According to the leader, his party is not opposed to having the city cleaned but added that this needs to be done in a balanced manner.

“They need to clean the city in a way that allows the people to still make a living, and they can do that. They can meet with people and talk to them and have them prepare for changes, not go one day and pull down their stalls. It is this heavyhanded approach that this Government is known for.”

Jadgeo noted he is satisfied with the walkabout as it demonstrated “that people have real concerns about the Government and secondly that the regime is getting desperate seeing that they had to resort to its activists and thugs.”

8 news

saturDAY, may 21, 2016 | guyana-times.com

IN THE COURTS

Drug mule jailed, fined $16.3M

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ess than a day after Sarfraz Jalaladeen, 30, of Riverview, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was busted at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport with almost 12 pounds of cocaine in milk powder packets, he was sentenced to serve four years in prison and fined $16.3 million.

Jalaladeen made his court appearance on Friday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate,Ann Mc Lennon, where he pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.

Reports are that Jalaladeen, who is a weld-

er, and was travelling for the first time to the United States via a Caribbean Airlines flight, was intercepted by members of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) on Thursday evening when they became suspicious after noticing several packets of what appeared to be powdered milk in the man’s suitcases.

A closer examination revealed that the milk packets were resealed and a further check was undertaken.

It was then that the ranks realised that the contents of the packets were cocaine. He was arrested and taken to CANU headquarters where the ille-

Convicted drug mule Sarfraz Jalaladeen

gal substance was weighed and proved to be just over 6kg.

Jalaladeen provided a statement to CANU agents and was charged. He also pro-

vided additional information to the ranks as they continue their investigations.

He reportedly told CANU ranks that he was promised US$7000 to traffic the illegal substance to New York but did not say if he is was paid an advance. Head of CANU, James Singh when contacted told Guyana Times that the drug enforcement unit will continue to hunt cocaine mules as the Anti-Narcotics Unit continued to crack down on the trafficking of narcotics.

Singh noted that they have beefed up their operations at the two main ports of entry and it has been yielding results.

Buck Hall businessman fined, jailed for 3 years for possession of narcotics

S

hawn Jerrick, 32, formerly of Anns Grove, East Coast Demerara, will have to spend three years in prison and an additional 12 weeks for possession of narcotic and illegal spirits. The sentences will run concurrently, however.

The businessman who operates an unlicensed liquor shop at Buck Hall Village, Essequibo, Region 2 (Pomeroon/Supenaam) made his first appearance be-

fore Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court. Jerrick pleaded guilty to possession of narcotics for the purposes of trafficking charge.

According to the prosecution case, on 19 May during a police raid, 70 grams of cannabis was found on his business premises. Acting on information, detectives of G Division of the Guyana Police Force journeyed to Jerrick’s premises where cannabis was found

in an abandoned washroom in his upper flat.

He told the court that business is “slow” and he was trying to “catch a fast hand”. He was sentenced to three years imprisonment along with a fine of $30,000.

In addition to that charge, the police also alleged that on 19 May, 2016, during the police raid 568 millilitres and 16 quarter bottles of high wine were unearthed.

The defendant is unli-

censed to sell the liquor.

Jerrick was further charged for being in possession of wine, malt and liquor without a valid licence. For that charge he also pleaded guilty and was sentenced to six weeks in prison.

At the end of the trial he broke down as he begged magistrate Scarce to fine him.

However, Magistrate Scarce explained to him that he must face the consequences since what he did were illegal.

Eyew tness

Conflicts...

A

...in local government

t long last, after a wait of 22 years, we had local government elections in Guyana. But in the tradition of “you can take the boy out of the gutter, but you can’t take the gutter out of the boy” it’s clear for a lot of the “new” officials they’ve been playing gutter politics too long. This Eyewitness has pointed out the continued high-handedness of the Mandarins of City Hall.

As was just mentioned by the PPP, they’d tried long and hard to move the vendors from Stabroek Square. Had to back down because of their fear of “blowback”. But now City Hall figures because the vendors they’re now knocking down like tenpins are PNC supporters they can “do wha’ deh want wid dem”. But time longer than twine - and as sure as tides rise and fall, they’ll have their fall. And it won’t be pretty... because those vending women are a special breed.

Then there’s the more serious nonsense going on at the RDC in Region Five. Now even though the RDCs are elected at the same time as national MPs, they ARE part of local government. And the LGEs should’ve reminded them of their duties. What’re the facts?

Back in January, President Granger went to the Region to hand over two buses as part of his “3Bs” initiative - “boats, bicycles and buses” for schoolchildren to get to school. The RDC Chairman, who just happens to’ve been elected from the PPP slate, didn’t show up at the ceremony.

From then on, all hell broke loose from the APNU/AFC councillors on the RDC. They’ve refused to participate in meetings when the Chairman is present. Then they started to picket him and finally this month, squatted on his seat in the boardroom - as they sang-prayed loudly! They not only refused to move, but prevented him from conducting the meeting that had drawn several other officials from central government.

So the business of Region Five has been disrupted for five months because the APNU/AFC councillors believe an apology to President Granger trumps whatever their duties to those who elected them in the RDC. To make matters worse, the Region Five Chairman has denied he stayed away deliberately from the ceremony and that he wanted to diss the President.

Now we all know the President of a country is one of the symbols of the country and deserves nuff respect and all of that. But wasn’t the raison d’être of local government that local problems must be given the highest priority of all by the local officials?

In Guyana, however, politics trumps all!

...of interest

Old folks say, “if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck”, then it’s a duck. Especially if water rolls off its back! And so it’s been with that fearless protector of public morality “I is” Broomes. Ever since her transfer to the Ministry of Natural Resources - to assist Minister Trotman - who’s a city slicker if there ever was one!

- she’s been dogged by accusations of conflict of interest. With her being a miner and all, that shouldn’t have surprised anyone, least of all, herself.

In every jurisdiction once a person in Government’s overseeing an activity in which they have an interest, they’d put their business in a “blind trust” - in which they have absolutely no connection. Caught with a gold dredge registered to a “Simona Broomes”, the goodly minister said it’s been transferred to her daughter with the same name. No conflict of interest, she intoned.

Now shown a newly issued mining licence in her name AND national ID number, isn’t that the smoking gun, Mr President?

...over law books

Guyana’s Attorney Generals earn more than the PM - plus its tax free. And the previous President STILL had the state pay $3 million for law books for his AG? Isn’t this a tad too petty for a rising leader?

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

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saturday, may 21, 2016 | guyana-times.com

New independence arch commissioned G

uyana can now boast of its symbols of independence as a new arch was commissioned on Friday at Agricola, Greater Georgetown, in time to mark the country’s 50th “Golden Jubilee” Independence anniversary.

The Agricola Independence Arch which was established through a joint partnership between the Government of Guyana and Banks DIH, was designed specifically to match the initial arch located at Brickdam, will act as the boundary point for the Capital City.

Beating the heavy downpours, members of the Government, diplomats, students and citizens assembled at the venue early on Friday morning to witness the monumental event.

Addressing the gathering, President David Granger highlighted the significance of the Independence Arch as Guyana nears the celebration of its Golden Jubilee anniversary.

He cited that the arch serves to be a separation of boundaries, not only physically but also symbolically, in terms of the development of the country over the past prehistoric ages.

“This arch moreover will not only separate the city from its surrounding areas but to separate the past from the future. It defines the disappointments and setbacks of our history,” Granger said.

He added that the arch will also signify the personalities who had fought for the independence of Guyana.

Noting the point that the construction of the arch is just one of the projects undertaken to develop the capital city, the Head of State revealed the plans of the government to have Georgetown transformed into a safe, green and sus-

The Agricola Independence Arch, a gift to the nation from Banks DIH to mark the country’s 50th “Golden Jubilee” independence anniversary

tainable city.

He encouraged all Guyanese to get on board, regardless of social segregation, and work together so that the capital city can be restored to its former glory.

With this being said, he assured that once adequate work has been done on the restoration process of the city, persons will be able to feel secured in their own country again.

Meanwhile, Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson during his feature address reiterated the sentiments expressed by the Head of State, while not-

ing the significance of the symbol. He cited that the arch serves as a reminder of those who had fought for the country’s freedom 50 years ago.

He took this time to disclose plans by the Government to have a similar arch, which would be the third, erected on the East Coast of Demerara as another symbol of Guyana’s independence status.

Patterson added that the Ministry is currently engaged with sponsors to garner finances to fund the project.

“The arch will mark the northern boundary

of Georgetown. Both the Private Sector Commission and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce have been contacted for assistance in financing the arch.”

The arch which reportedly cost a sum of $20 million stands across the East Bank corridor at 200 feet, with its design showcasing the 50th anniversary logo on a crown, adorned with Guyana’s national flag.

This will replace a similar arch which had been erected in Ruimveldt but had been dismantled to facilitate the road expansion project on the East Bank of Demerara in 2004.

Guyoil raises kerosene prices

S

ome three months after reducing the prices for fuel across the country, consumers who purchase kerosene oil began paying extra on the price for the crude oil product, as the Guyana Oil Company (Guyoil) announced an increase on the commodity.

The company announced on Thursday that beginning Friday, consumers across the country would be required to pay an extra $5 for kerosene at service stations.

The oil company said the adjustment will see the price being moved from $90 per litre to $95 per litre at service stations in Georgetown, from $91 to $96 per litre in Berbice and $92 per litre to $97 per litre in Essequibo.

The company said despite its efforts to keep the price for the “important commodity as affordable as possible”, the adjustment had become necessary due to an increase in acquisition cost at source.

It said however, that despite the minor adjustment, the price for kerosene is by far much lower than the competition across the Caribbean Region.

In February, the company had announced that the prices of several categories of fuel, including kerosene, were reduced.

The announcement was made official by Finance Minister Winston Jordan in the National Assembly.

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guyanatimesgy.com

saturDAY, may 21, 2016

News

Fire ravages Campbellville house

R

The burnt inside of the Campbellville house

esidents of Campbellville Housing Scheme, Georgetown, on Friday roused to smell of smoke as their neighbours’ home went up in flames due to an alleged voltage fluctuation in the area at approximately 03:30h.

When Guyana Times visited the area Friday, owners of the house, Manex and Alejandrea Powers were not available but a relative who resided there said electrical wires at the back of the house began sparking and that may have been the cause of the fire.

The relative stated that prior to this incident, the wires would spark “now and again” and they had reported it to the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) which visited the area and declared nothing was wrong with the wiring.

“Three days ago, the wire

start sparking and we call GPL, they come and check then when they go back they call and say everything alright. Then bout 3:30 this morning (Friday), the wire start sparking and when people run out to assist, everything gone up in the blaze.

We aint get to save nothing.”

She noted that no one was at home at the time of the fire.

Another neighbour of the Powers’, Debra Wilkinson told this publication that she awoke in the dark and knowing that the neighbourhood was to prone electrical fluctuations, thought nothing of it, until she was notified by another neighbour that the Powers’ home was ablaze.

She said she immediately called GPL’s emergency line, but was greeted with an impolite employee.

Wilkinson said when she asked the employee to as-

sist her in contacting the fire service, the worker refused.

However, someone else called the fire service but when the fire tenders arrived no water was available. She highlighted that when a 2nd fire tender arrived with water the fire-fighters quickly managed to extinguish the blaze.

“I hear me neighbour scream Debra! Debra! Manex house on fire! So I said okay, I’m calling GPL, when I called GPL, the worker was very rude to me when I explaining to her that the high voltage and low voltage fluctuations cause the fire. I said well y’all help call the fire service and they said we don’t deal wid fire, you call yuh people.

When the fire truck come, it aint had no water. We had to wait till the other one come with water. But the fire service did a good job, they put out the fire fast,” the woman recalled.

The neighbours said the instability of electricity supply has been occurring in the neighbourhood for some time, but it was during this week that it became unbearable. They voiced that though they reported the matter numerous times to GPL, there has been no tangible rectification of the problem.

It was reported that residents of the house were parents to two young children, and have not been residing at the home since the marked increase of power fluctuations.

Pedestrian, vehicle overpass for East Bank Demerara highway

Ongoing works on the East Bank Demerara corridor

W

ith the number of road fatalities and traffic congestion still a major concern for Government, Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson has disclosed plans to create three pedestrian overpasses, as well as a fly-over at Diamond, East Bank Demerara.

The Minister made the announcement at the unveiling of the Independence Arch at the city’s entrance, Agricola, Greater Georgetown, on Friday.

Noting that the construction of the arch is an upgrade for the East Bank of Demerara, Patterson also elaborated on the ongoing projects by the Public Infrastructure Ministry for the access road as well as future plans to decrease traffic fatalities.

One of the projects the Ministry will be embarking upon, he said, is the creation of the overpasses and a flyover, as part of its aim to ensure maximum security of pedestrians who are more than often, the victims of accidents.

The Minister added that these overpasses will be constructed at three junctions, which research shows are the busiest.

“Each month, the Guyana Police Force, through its traffic statistics, indicate that pedestrians are the most affected by fatal accidents on our roadways. Saving even a

single life is important. The pedestrian overhead crossings will be located at the Harbour Bridge intersection at Peter’s Hall; Eccles and Houston. These sites were chosen following studies which showed that these three areas have the most pedestrian movement,” said Patterson.

Referring to the proposed vehicular overhead crossing at Diamond, Patterson added that this will be constructed at the intersection of the East Bank road and Diamond, given that traffic congestion in this area is a constant inconvenience for commuters and drivers.

This, he said, will also play a significant role in reducing the number of accidents.

According to Patterson “The community is also one that suffers from serious traffic congestion, so the overhead crossing will bring relief. We expect that the overhead crossing will significantly reduce accidents; save on travel time for those from Diamond; and also precipitate a free flow of traffic at the proposed site.”

Speaking about the Ministry’s current projects, Patterson updated that the East Bank Demerara fourlane expansion project is in its final stages, as works are being done between Providence and Herstelling.

This project, he said, is set for completion by the end of

August 2016.

This expansion, he cited, will not only serve to provide additional space but also will significantly cut down on travel time, allow a smoother flow of vehicular traffic, and most importantly, reduce accidents seen along the East Bank Demerara corridor.

Since the issue of traffic congestion continues to be high on the agenda for both the Ministry and drivers, Patterson revealed plans by the Government to commence its Sustainable Urban Transportation Study in the month of June.

He explained that the study will focus primarily on analysing the public transport system so that possible solutions can be derived as to how mobility can be improved in and around Georgetown.

“It is important that we look at ways to diagnose the urban transport situation. We all are aware of the problems and trends and the Government of Guyana believes that it is high time that we deal with matters of public transport infrastructure, operations, financing, and institutional organisation” the Public Infrastructure Minister posited.

The Sustainable Urban Transportation Study will support the design of a public transport system to provide users with a safe, efficient, clean, and affordable service.

17-year-old “brain dead” teen succumbs

T

he 17-year-old teen who gave birth prematurely via Caesarean (C-Section), then lost her baby on Wednesday, succumbed on Thursday at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH).

According to reports the teen was admitted to GPH 28 weeks into her pregnancy after she began feeling intense pains in her stomach. She was diagnosed with Brain Arteriovenous Malformation (AMV), which is the connection of a vein to a weak cell within the brain.

The teen’s mother Claudette Rodrigues told this publication she was informed by the doctors that her child was born with a weak cell located in her brain, and that any slight pressure could cause it to break and cause haemorrhaging. It was relayed that as the teen grew older, the chances of the vein bursting increased, so when she became pregnant, the pressure from morning sick-

ness resulted in bleeding in the brain. This caused her to become “brain-dead.”

The doctors performed a Caesarean in order to save the premature baby, who was in a critical state until Wednesday, when this publication was informed by Minister of Public Health George Norton that the baby had died. Norton had also said that chances of the teen surviving were slim to none and the family of the girl had already been informed about what to expect.

“All the different doctors and specialists in the different field, come sit down and tell we that she’s not going to live and that we must go home and get we self prepared because don’t matter how long she tek, she going to die, she’s not going to come back,” the teen’s mother disclosed.

According to Rodrigues, she was informed to visit GPH as soon as possible.

She said when she arrived on Friday morning, she was told of her child’s demise and saw her body outside of the mortuary.

Rodrigues said she learnt from the staff that there was no vacant “drawer” available to store the body. However, the body was relocated to Derek’s Parlor to be stored until the post mortem is done on Monday. ”When we went there, they didn’t have space in the mortuary and they had her outside. We go at records and they said that they can’t do nothing at records because she gotta get post mortem before they do anything. So we end up talking with these people at Derek’s Parlor and we end up send the body there to store.

We get permission from the man that does work at the mortuary. So when the post mortem finish on Monday, we will know what really cause the death,” Rodrigues related.

saturDAY, may 21, 2016

guyana-times.com

11

News

CCJ dismisses Guyana land appeal case PSC continues advocacy for establishment of commissions – cites fraudulent sale

C

hairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) Norman McLean on Thursday said the body remains committed to its advocacy for the establishment of several commissions.

These include the Public Procurement and the Ethnic Relations Commissions, as well as other commissions on children, gender and indigenous peoples. However, they remain non starters at the moment.

The new Administration had promised to get most, if not all of these commissions, up and running; however, there have been some major setbacks.

In December last year, Government began making moves to have the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) established by advertising through the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) for stakeholders, political parties, civil organisations and individuals to submit names of persons eligible to be considered commissioners.

Since then, nothing further has been said or done.

While on the Opposition side of the house, the new Government was very critical of the then People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s approach to the distribution of contracts and had called out to the PPP/C to have the Public Procurement Commission established.

According to Guyana’s

PSC Chairman Norman McLean

Constitution, the PPC shall consist of five members who shall have expertise and experience in the procurement, legal, financial and administrative matters.

The Procurement Commission is usually made up of Government and Opposition parliamentarians, and is traditionally chaired by a member of the Opposition in the House.

Government itself had come under fire for failing to establish the Procurement Commission earlier – a promise it made in its manifesto.

The absence of the PPC had caused even more outrage against Government, particularly because of its move to carry out a number of forensic audits at State entities across Guyana, without carrying out the requisite tendering process.

Meanwhile, the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) is yet to be constituted. Government had said late last year too that it was

awaiting a move from the Opposition.

During the 10th Parliament, the appointive committee had approved the names of nominees to be ERC Commissioners; however, despite the approval, their appointments were not assented to by former President Donald Ramotar.

Similarly, the Rights of the Child Commission, the Women and Gender Equality Commission and the commission on indigenous people are also yet to be established.

The last public call for the establishment of these commissions was back in early February 2015, by then Speaker of the National Assembly Raphael Trotman.

He had urged that outstanding aspects of the 2001 Constitutional Reform process be deepened to strengthen the work of the Rights of the Child Commission (RCC). According to him, the Constitution specifies that a Human Rights Commission and a Rights Tribunal be established, the existence of which he believed would give potency to the work of the RCC and its findings.

The RCC is one of several constitutional Rights Commissions that were established at the conclusion of the reform, which included the term limits for Presidents. The others are the Human Rights, Women and Gender, Indigenous Peoples and the Ethnic Relations Commission.

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he Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) on Friday dismissed a Guyana land appeal in the matter of Chee Yiu Kwang and another vs Tsui Yokkei on the basis of a fraudulent sale and transfer of a Bartica, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) property.

In dismissing the appeal, the CCJ agreed with, and upheld the decision of the High Court and Court of Appeal of Guyana in the matter.

The dispute arose out of successive sales of a property at Bartica, which had been originally owned by Chee Yui Kwang (Kwang) and occupied

by Tsui Yokkei (Cheekee).

Kwang orally agreed to sell the property to Cheekee, who began making payments in this regard. Kwang subsequently sold and transferred ownership of the Bartica property to Millicent Murray. Cheekee

commenced an action in the High Court of Guyana on the basis that the transaction between Kwang and Millicent was fraudulent.

Acting Chief Justice Ian Chang ruled in favour of Cheekee, holding that the actions of Kwang and Murray amounted to fraud under section 22(1) of the Deeds Registry Act (the Act)1. Kwang was ordered to transfer ownership of the property to Cheekee upon receipt of the full balance due on the property.

Both Kwang and Millicent appealed the decision at the Court of Appeal, which affirmed the ruling of Justice Chang.

In bringing the matter to the CCJ, Kwang sought to appeal the decision of the Court of Appeal of Guyana.

The CCJ held that the circumstances of the subsequent sale of the Bartica property to

Murray clearly fell within section 22(1).

The fact that Kwang sold the property to Murray and transferred ownership to her when she was fully aware of Kwang’s agreement of sale with Cheekee made Murray a participant in the breach of the agreement and privy to the fraud committed by Kwang.

The CCJ therefore dismissed the appeal and ordered that the transport (transfer of ownership) of the disputed property be passed to Cheekee.

The court was presided over

by Justice Nelson along with Justices Saunders, Hayton and Rajnauth-Lee. Rajendra N Poonai, Devindra Kissoon and Naresh Poonai appeared on behalf of the Appellants and Mohabir Anil Nandlall and Manoj Narayan appeared on behalf of the respondent.

Digicel still eyeing construction of special needs school in Linden

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igicel is expected to forge ahead with the construction of a special needs school in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) – a move which had been halted by officials in the community due to issues with its location two years ago.

In 2014, the sod was turned by then Regional Chairman Sharma Solomon, former Interim Management Committee (IMC) Chairman Orrin Gordon and Digicel representatives for the construction of the special needs school which never came into fruition.

However, representatives of the telecommunications giant re-

cently revealed that the company is still interested in once again venturing into the initiative.

Speaking during the launch of the annual Linden Town Week (LTW) event on Sunday, the company’s representative Sherwin Osborne said Digicel is still dedicated to making the idea of the special needs school in the community a reality.

He said that though the project, which had been initiated two years ago, saw some hiccups in its initial stage; it may soon come be on stream once again. Additionally, he pointed out that the company has had talks with the Government with

the hope of making the special needs school a realisation. This was also reassured by Digicel’s Public Relations Officer Vidya Sanchara on Wednesday, who noted that though it’s a “touchy” subject, the company will nevertheless like to pursue it.

Since there were issues with constructing the school at a site, which had been selected at Mackenzie, the company had been forced to abandon the idea, and Sanchara said funding was therefore directed elsewhere.

She said provided that all goes well this time around, including the siting of a suitable location, Linden may benefit from such an initiative.

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saturday, may 21, 2016

Regional

Mexico approves extradition of drug boss Guzman to US

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exico has approved the extradition of drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman to the United States and has received guarantees the death penalty will not be sought against him, the Foreign Ministry said on Friday.

Under Mexican law, Guzman can appeal the decision, possibly delaying the process for weeks or months. Juan Pablo Badillo, one of Guzman’s lawyers, told Reuters he would file “many” legal challenges in the coming days.

Recaptured drug lord Joaquin ‘’El Chapo’’ Guzman

Guzman, head of the Sinaloa drug cartel, was one of the world’s most wanted

drug kingpins until his capture in January, six months after he broke out of a highsecurity penitentiary in central Mexico through a milelong tunnel.

The Ministry said he would face charges including drug trafficking, money laundering and murder in US federal courts in California and Texas.

President Enrique Pena Nieto said soon after Guzman’s recapture that he would take steps to ensure his extradition as soon as possible. (Reuters)

Trinidad Government says time for review of child marriage laws

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mid calls for the Trinidadian Government not to touch laws that allow girls to marry as young as 12 years old, Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister Ayanna Webster-Roy insisted there is a “critical need for the age of marriage to be aligned to the age of consent for sexual conduct”.

Currently, under the Hindu Marriage Act, a girl may marry at age 14 and a boy at 18; the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act allows a girl to marry at age 12 and a boy at 16; while the Orisa Marriage Act makes provision for a girl to marry at age 16 and a boy at age 18.

But Webster-Roy noted that those statutes conflict with the age of consent to sex – 18 – reflected in the Children Act, 2012. She also pointed to the harmful consequences of children marrying too early.

The issue of child marriage has stirred up debate in Trinidad and Tobago again

“Early marriage can expose a child, inter alia, to decreased opportunity for education; serious health risk such as premature pregnancy and sexual transmitted infections... high risk due to early pregnancy such as death during delivery, endangering the health of young mother and their babies; and increased likelihood of being subjected to gender-based violence,” the

Minister said.

“It is the Government’s view that children are entitled to the fullest benefits of childhood and to the enjoyment of their rights as children and the Government is committed to the protection and fulfilment of these rights. In this regard, there is a critical need for the age of marriage to be aligned to the age of consent for sexual conduct,” she added. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Rousseff’s trial to run on during summer Olympics in Brazil

Suspended Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff attends a news conference with foreign media in Brasilia, Brazil, May 13

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razil will welcome the world to the summer Olympics with suspended President Dilma Rousseff still on trial for breaking budget rules, government sources said on Friday, despite the interim government’s efforts to fast-track the process before the Games.

Heads of state attending the opening ceremo-

ny on August 5 in Rio de Janeiro at Rousseff’s invitation will instead find themselves shaking hands with Interim President Michel Temer, a close presidential advisor said.

Temer, who took power last week when the Senate voted to put Rousseff on trial on charges of breaking budget laws, had hoped her trial would be over before

the Games so there would be no doubt over his leadership of Latin America’s largest nation.

If Rousseff is convicted, she would be removed definitively from office and Temer would be in the post until elections due in 2018.

Several Latin American leaders have criticised Rousseff’s impeachment as unconstitutional and questioned the legitimacy of Temer’s Government.

Rousseff denies the charges.

Senate Speaker Renan Calheiros has suspended the chamber’s annual recess in July so that the trial is not interrupted. But Senate staffers say that the soonest it can be concluded will be early-to midSeptember because evidence that Rousseff broke budget laws must be provided, witnesses called up, and her defence allowed fair time to make its case.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

St Lucians to vote for a new government in early June poll

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t Lucia will have a new government in just over two weeks, almost a year earlier constitutionally due.

Prime Minister, Dr Kenny Anthony announced in a televised address to the nation on Thursday evening that June 6 has been set as the date for the general election. Nomination day is a week from now – on May 27.

The Government had until April 5 next year to hold the poll.

On the heels of the United Workers Party

(UWP) calling for early elections, Anthony said his ruling St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP) is ready to face the electorate.

“I have decided in the interest of our country, to call the general election several months ahead of its due date to ensure peace, stability and certainty in our country and its affairs,” the Prime Minister said.

During his address, he also spoke about the progress the country had made under the SLP Administration.

Following the election date announcement, Anthony addressed supporters in the capital on a 15-point election plan that his party will implement if it is re-elected to office.

The plans include reducing unemployment, adding at least 2000 new hotel rooms, increasing the income tax threshold from EC$18,000 (US$6666) to EC$30,000 (US$11,111), and the establishment of a tertiary education trust fund. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

439 Jamaicans denied entry into T&T since January 2015

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oreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith says some 326 Jamaicans were denied entry to the twin-island republic of Trinidad and Tobago in 2015.

Additionally, she said 113 Jamaicans have been denied entry to the country from January to March of this year. Johnson Smith was making her presentation to the Senate on Friday when she made the revelation.

In recent times, several Jamaicans have com-

plained bitterly in regards to the treatment meted out to them by immigration officers in that country subsequent to deportation.

Johnson Smith said Jamaica has sought to deal with the issue at both the bilateral and regional levels. At the bilateral level, she said following several meetings between Jamaican and Trinidadian officials, a commitment was given by Trinidad to resolve the issue “as expeditiously as possible”.

Meanwhile, the Senator said at the regional level

Jamaica requested that the item “Treatment of Caricom Nationals Travelling in the Region” be returned to the agenda of the recent Session of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), which has oversight for the implementation of the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME).

She said under the item, Jamaica called for the full implementation of the decisions taken at the 39th Session of COTED held in November 2014.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Venezuela rejects ‘interventionist statements’ by OAS

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n a statement released through the Venezuelan embassy in St Vincent and the Grenadines on Thursday, the country’s Foreign Minister Delcy Rodríguez rejected what were described as “interventionist statements” by Organisation of American States (OAS) Secretary General Luis Almagro.

In an open letter published on Wednesday, Almagro referred to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as a petty

dictator, a traitor and a liar.

Rodríguez added on Twitter that the word of the people will not fit in the mouth of one who only repeats scripts that their imperial masters dictate.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Venezuelan opposition protesters marched to the office of the country’s National Electoral Council (CNE) to deliver a petition demanding that the process for a recall referendum against Maduro be expedited.

In a tense face-off, supporters of the Democratic Unity Roundtable (MUD), a coalition of parties opposed to the governing United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV), were prevented from entering the premises by state security personnel, prompting the recall effort’s chief proponent and former opposition presidential candidate, Henrique Caprilles, to declare that Maduro “is using force in the belief that it is going to stop us.” (Excerpt

from Caribbean News Now)

Maduro coming to T&T for talks

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mbattled Venezuelan President Nicholás Maduro, who has asked to hold meetings with the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, will pay a brief state visit to T&T next Monday, Stuart Young, Minister in Ministry of the Attorney General, said.

Speaking at Thursday’s post-Cabinet media conference, he made it clear Maduro has requested to visit T&T and a Government delegation, led by the Prime Minister, will hear what he has to say .

Young said the visit was to further bilateral talks in terms of foreign affairs, trade and energy.

Maduro’s visit to T&T, Venezuela’s closest neighbour, comes amidst increas-

Minister in Ministry of the Attorney General Stuart Young

ing turmoil in his own country caused by deteriorating economic conditions, including severe commodity shortages and overall instability, throughout which Maduro’s Administration has been struggling to maintain order and stave off all-out chaos.

Caribbean islands have

been warned of possible Venezuelan refugees fleeing that country’s economic collapse, which in recent days has seen looting in some areas, at least two deaths, many wounded and millions of dollars in losses and damages.

The Mayor of Chacao said Tuesday people have resorted to hunting dogs, cats and pigeons for food. Young said Maduro would only be in T&T for several hours for the State visit.

He said the Venezuelan leader would be accompanied by the Venezuelan Foreign Affairs Minister, the Petroleum Ministers and Industry Minister as well as representatives of Venezuela’s National Gas Company. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

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Around the world

Turkey passes bill to strip EgyptAir crash: Debris found from flight MS804 politicians of immunity

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ebris and body parts have been found in the Mediterranean Sea by teams searching for a missing EgyptAir plane, Greek and Egyptian officials say.

Flight MS804 was en route from Paris to Cairo with 66 passengers and crew when it vanished early on Thursday. Items including seats and luggage have also been retrieved by Egyptian search crews.

The debris was discovered about 290km (180 miles) north of Alexandria, the Egyptian military said.

European Space Agency satellites spotted an oil slick in the area where the flight had vanished but the organisation said there was no guarantee it was from the missing plane.

The search is now focused on finding the plane’s flight recorders, the Associated Press news agency reports.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has expressed his “utmost sadness and re-

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Relatives of the victims of the missing EgyptAir flight MS804 hold an absentee funeral prayer in a mosque nearby Cairo airport in Cairo, Egypt, May 20

gret” at the crash.

Greek, Egyptian, French and UK military units have been taking part in a search operation near Greece’s Karpathos island.

Greece said radar showed the Airbus A320 had made two sharp turns and dropped more than 25,000 feet (7620 metres) before plunging into the sea.

Egypt says the plane was more likely to have been

brought down by a terrorist act than a technical fault.

However, there has been “absolutely no indication” so far as to why the plane came down, French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said on Friday morning.

Three investigators from the French air accident investigation bureau, along with a technical adviser from Airbus, have joined the Egyptian inquiry.

urkey’s Parliament has ratified a bill that will strip some legislators of immunity from prosecution – a move members of the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) say targets them.

Championed by the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), the bill will amend the Constitution, adding a temporary clause to remove immunity from a total of 138 deputies – the exact number who are currently facing criminal inves-

tigations.

Currently, 51 Opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) Members of Parliament, 50 HDP MPs, 27 AKP MPs, nine Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) MPs and one independent are facing investigations.

In a secret ballot on Friday, the bill gained the backing of 376 of the 550 parliamentarians.

AKP and MHP have been accusing pro-Kurdish MPs of taking advantage of their parliamentary immuni-

ty to support the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), an armed group the Government accuses of “terrorism”.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has previously called for members of the HDP to face prosecution, accusing them of being the PKK’s political wing.

The HDP strongly denies this claim, accusing the Government of engineering this law in an effort to empty parliament of pro-Kurdish voices. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

US rejects Russia proposal for joint Syria air strikes

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he United States has rejected a Russian proposal to carry out joint air strikes against armed Opposition groups in Syria.

“We do not collaborate or coordinate with the Russians on any operations in Syria,”

groups against Government forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad.

Earlier on Friday, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu suggested the two countries launch joint strikes against al-Nusra Front and other armed

made a formal proposal to the United States. “I’ve only seen the same press reports you have - nothing formal has been presented to us,” he told reporters.

The Syrian conflict started as a largely unarmed uprising in March 2011, but it

(Excerpt from BBC News)

China demands end to US surveillance after aircraft intercept

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eijing demanded an end to US surveillance near China on Thursday after two of its fighter jets carried out what the Pentagon said was an “unsafe” intercept of a US military reconnaissance aircraft over the South China Sea. The incident, likely to increase tension in and around the contested waterway, took place in international airspace on Tuesday as the plane carried out “a routine US patrol,” a Pentagon statement said.

A US Defence official said two Chinese J-11 fighter jets flew within 50 feet (15 metres) of the US EP-3 aircraft. The official said the incident took place East of Hainan island.

“Initial reports characterized the incident as unsafe,” the Pentagon statement said. “It must be pointed out that US military planes frequently carry out reconnaissance in Chinese coastal waters, seriously endangering Chinese maritime security,” China’s Foreign Ministry spokes-

man Hong Lei Hong told reporters.

“We demand that the United States immediately cease this type of close reconnaissance activity to avoid having this sort of incident happening again,” Hong said.

Speaking at a regular press briefing, he described the Pentagon statement as “not true” and said the actions of the Chinese aircraft were “completely in keeping with safety and professional standards.” (Excerpt from Reuters)

India records its hottest day ever

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city in India’s Rajasthan state has broken the country’s temperature records after registering 51 degrees Celsius, the highest since records began, the weather office says.

The new record in Phalodi in the desert state comes amid a heatwave across India. The previous record for the hottest temperature stood at 50.6 degrees Celsius in 1956.

The heatwave has hit much of northern India, where temperatures have exceeded 40 degrees Celsius for weeks.

The run-up to the Indian monsoon season is always characterised by weeks of strong sunshine and increasing heat but life-threatening temperature levels topping 50 degrees Celsius are unusual.

The weather office has issued warnings of “severe heat wave” conditions

Russia and the US have been carrying out separate bombing campaigns in Syria

Pentagon spokesman Navy Captain Jeff Davis told reporters on Friday, explaining that Washington and Moscow have separate military objectives.

The US and Russia have been carrying out separate bombing campaigns in Syria, where a five-year civil war has pitted armed rebel

groups that do not support a frail truce brokered by Moscow and Washington in February.

He also proposed that joint strikes be made against “convoys containing weapons and ammunition, armed units that illegally cross the Syrian-Turkish border”.

Davis said Russia had not

quickly morphed into a fullon civil war that has left millions displaced and hundreds of thousands dead.

Staffan de Mistura, the United Nations special envoy for Syria, recently estimated that 400,000 have been killed throughout the five years of bloodshed. (Excerpt

from Al Jazeera)

Zika virus strain ‘imported from the Americas’ to Africa

T The weather office has issued several warnings of “severe heat wave” conditions in recent days

across large parts of India’s northern and western states through the weekend.

India declares a heat wave when the maximum temperature hits 45 degrees Celsius, or five degrees higher than the average for the area in previous years. This summer, the heat wave

has claimed dozens of lives in the south Indian states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

Permanent relief from the heat is only expected with the arrival of the monsoon, which normally comes in mid-June. (Excerpt from BBC News)

he Zika virus strain responsible for the outbreaks in Brazil has been detected in Africa for the first time, the World Health Organisation (WHO) says.

The WHO said it was concerned that the latest strain was spreading and was “on the doorstep of Africa”. It is currently circulating in Cape Verde, an archipelago off the North West coast of Africa.

Zika has been linked to neurological disorders including babies being born with small brains. Dr

Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, said: “This information will help African countries to re-evaluate their level of risk and adapt and increase their levels of preparedness.”

She said African countries should raise awareness among pregnant women of the complications with the Zika virus and encourage people to protect themselves against mosquito bites and sexual transmission.

But she said she would not recommend strict travel restrictions to try to stop the

spread of the disease.

There have been more than 7000 suspected cases of Zika in Cape Verde, with 180 pregnant women thought to have been infected. The WHO says three babies have been born brain damaged with microcephaly.

Until the virus was sequenced by scientists in Senegal, it was not certain if the outbreak in Cape Verde was caused by the African or Asian type, which has hit Brazil and other Latin American countries. (Excerpt from

BBC News)

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saturDAY, may 21, 2016 | guyana-times.com

Lindener slapped 13 TIP cases reported for 2016 as Ministry intensifies work to stamp with murder charge … out Trafficking In Persons

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Lindener was on Friday brought before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to the capital offence of murder.

Andrew Griffith, 29, of Blueberry Hill, Industrial Area, Linden, was not required to plea to the indictable charge, which stated that between August 3 and 4, 2014 at Bartica Backdam, he murdered Kester Anderson.

The accused unrepresented in court, explained that on the day in question, he was approached by two police officers who enquired what his name was, asking if it was Andrew Forde to which he denied.

He explained that he became afraid after the officers threatened to shoot him.

Andrew Griffith

Breaking out in tears, the murder accused disclosed to court that he is a father of three young daughters and has a 78-year-old mother to care for.

He further explained that on the day of his arrest,

he was given a paper to sign which he was told was procedure.

Griffith stated that it was only later that he was told that the paper he signed, indicated that he was Andrew Forde. Magistrate McLennan remanded him to prison and transferred the case to the Bartica Magistrate’s Court for June 1.

Meanwhile Kester Anderson, 23, of Lot 2 Samaroo Dam, Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara, succumbed to his injuries at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) after he was allegedly set ablaze by Griffith.

It is alleged that Anderson was involved in an argument with another miner at a mining camp during which Griffith reportedly doused him with gasoline before setting him afire.

50% GEA’s electrical energy supplied from sustainable energy source

Engineers installing solar panels on the roof of GEA headquarters

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he Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) has installed an additional grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) at the Agency’s headquarters at Quamina Street, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown. At a cost of over $4 million, the new system is estimated to produce 13,167 kWh of energy annually.

In 2012, with support from the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ), and funding from the Austrian Development Cooperation, the GEA installed an 8.46 kWp Grid Tie Solar Photovoltaic Demonstration Project at a

cost of $6.9 million, which supplied about 20 per cent of the Agency’s electrical energy needs.

The new 10 kWp additional installation, when combined with the previously installed system, will produce approximately 50 per cent of the annual energy needs of the Agency.

Though Guyana has for many years been using solar PV panels for a number of applications, primarily in remote areas, the system installed by the GEA was Guyana’s first grid-connected solar photovoltaic netmetering demonstration. It allowed for the promotion of the use of renewable energy

in Guyana, improved understanding of grid-connected technologies, and demonstrated the use and application of solar photovoltaic grid-connected technology.

“During a regular business day, the grid-connected inverter senses the amount of energy coming from the solar panels, measures the amount of energy being consumed by the building, then takes the difference from the grid,” Energy Engineer Leon De Souza said.

“On holidays and weekends, when the energy requirement of the building is less than that supplied from the solar panels, the excess energy is fed into the grid.

It is also designed to quickly disconnect from the grid if the utility grid goes down,” De Souza noted.

The new installation when combined with the one previously installed will result in annual savings of about $1,599,641. Since the installation of the first system in 2012 and the new system in 2016, the PV systems have resulted in savings of over $3,100,000.

Additionally, it contributed positively to the environment by avoiding the release of more than 31,705 kg carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

LHC staff urged to assist in rendering support to GPHC

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taff of the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) was urged to render assistance to the Georgetown Public Hospital in the area of maternal health, following a visit by Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton and Minister within the Public Health Ministry, Dr Karen Cummings on Thursday.

According to LHC Public Relations Officer Reycia

Nedd, the employees were urged to assist in terms of giving service to the Georgetown Public Hospital which is said to be severely understaffed, in an effort to avoid a national crisis.

She said the team made an appeal to nurses and midwives, more specifically, to join in support, as a part of their rotation to provide assistance to the maternity ward of the Georgetown

Public Hospital. Nedd said during the meeting, that the LHC midwives and staff nurses were urged join the GPHC maternity team to work for a specified number of months, as part of their rotation. During a prior visit to Linden on Tuesday, Minister Cummings had praised the work of the LHC in maintaining a complimentary rating of zero maternal deaths.

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he Social Protection Ministry’s Counter Trafficking In Persons (C-TIP) unit has received 13 reports of human trafficking to date, all of which are under investigation.

Two cases were reported in January involving two victims; five in February involving eight victims; two in March involving seven victims; three in April involving 10 victims, and one in May involving one victim.

Tanisha WilliamsCorbin, TIP Coordinator (Ag) explained that in 2015, the TIP unit sought to expand its operations to better serve vulnerable persons, identified as alleged TIP victims, and to better execute its mandate.

During the launch of C-TIP unit’s Jubilee edition of educational materials on Friday, to heighten awareness on human trafficking and its effects, WilliamsCorbin said that since the restructuring, two experienced probation officers have been recruited for the unit, and a police rank is now attached to it. The Ministry also envisions having its own legal officer shortly.

Mohan Ramrattan Deputy Permanent Secretary (DPS), in a GINA report, warned all perpetra-

Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Coordinator, Tanisha Williams-Corbin

tors involved in human trafficking that the Ministry will do all it can to prevent it.

He said the Ministry intends to address the rootcauses of human trafficking, especially that of poverty.

This will be done through provision of counselling services, public assistance and necessary psychosocial support in keeping with the Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act of 2005, and provision of technical training, grants and loans to atrisk families.

Ramrattan noted that the ministry will also support the work of the TIP Ministerial Task Force in

stamping out this scourge.

The intention is to ensure that victims of human trafficking are not re-victimised by the country’s laws.

Ramrattan said the rights of Guyanese will be upheld by the ministry and will continue to be on the front burner of its 2016 development programme.

In moving forward, specific emphasis will be placed on several aspects including the current and emerging trends of TIP in Guyana, identifying TIP victims and perpetrators, ensuring there is adequate law enforcement responses, supporting all TIP victims regardless of their immigration status, and supporting special target groups.

For three consecutive years (2013, 2014 and 2015), Guyana has been placed on the Tier Two Watch List of TIP. Tier 1 is countries whose governments fully comply with the Trafficking Victims Protection Acts (TVPA) minimum standards.

Tier Two are countries whose governments do not fully comply with the TVPA’s minimum standards, but are making significant efforts to bring themselves into compliance with those standards.

Govt considering restarting subsidies to Hugh Wooding Law School

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fter pulling maintenance payments to the Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS) over a decade ago, the Government of Guyana is considering restarting the subsidies in order to get Guyanese students into the facility without any hindrance.

The collaborative agreement with the University of Guyana (UG), University of the West Indies (UWI) and the Council of Legal Education (CLE) that caters for Guyanese graduates to enter the HWLS expired sometime around 2013. There has since been negotiations among the three bodies on the draft of a new agreement.

However last year concerns were raised after Legal Affairs Minister cum Attorney General Basil Williams announced that he was unsure if the arrangement for automatic entry of 25 Guyanese students into the Trinidadbased facility will continue.

After much negotiation, they students were accepted but had to face the burden of increased fees.

But on Thursday, Williams told the media at a press briefing that he believes the entire issue is stemmed from the fact that Guyana had stopped contributions to the economic cost of the facility.

“My own belief that the question of space at the Hugh Wooding Law School is merely, I will think, an excuse because we are not paying anything to the up-keep of the law school,” he stated.

He pointed out that

Guyana ceased payments since 2002 and it was until his administration took office last year that the issue of the economic cost was raised again.

Nevertheless, the Legal Affairs Minister stated that as an immediate and temporary solution, Government will consider recommencing the payments: “Perhaps we’ll look at the options at whether we could pay until we resolve the issue – pay some money, pay some small part. No country is paying a hundred per cent, so we’ll pay some percentage.”

However Williams noted that this will only be done until government resolves the issue of whether or not it can establish a law school locally. He explained that a lot of Caribbean countries are moving from the idea of HWLS and venturing to establish their own.

“Now what is happening is that a lot of countries are now looking at being self-sufficient by setting up their own law schools,” he noted. Williams added that Antigua is proposing to set up its own law school while The Bahamas has already set up one.

The Minister noted that before, many of the countries used to complete Part One locally and then go to UWI’s Cave Hill Campus in Barbados to finish Parts 2 and 3. However, he noted, this too have stopped as many of the regional territories such as Guyana are completing the full degree locally.

On the issue of the new

collaborative agreement, Williams said Guyana has added 10 none-Guyanese graduates as part of its admission to Hugh Wooding, taking the amount to 35 students.

“That has been rigorously and vigorously opposed apparently, and we have had to have the intervention of the Heads of Government at one meeting and when I came into office, the Heads of Government again intervened and helped me to get the Guyanese students over,” Williams noted.

He went onto say the matter came up at the last CLE meeting and Guyana had indicated clearly, through the Head of Department of Law, that it is ready to sign the draft agreement. However, the agreement has been referred to a subcommittee for review. The Legal Affairs Minister said when he recently wrote the Head of CLE, she responded informing him that the subcommittee has not met as yet.

“Time is running out and we hope that the subcommittee will get on with its business and address this issue because we are ready to sign.

Ready, willing and able to sign,” the AG declared.

Guyanese students attending HWLS have been complaining of various issues including tuition fees, discrimination and disadvantages that they face in pursuit of their Legal Education Certificate at the regional institution.

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Broomes should declare conflict of interest – TIGI W

hile Junior Minister of Natural Resources Simona Broomes has opted to transfer her mining interests to her children and distanced herself from duties relating directly to mining activities in order to avoid any conflict of interest, Transparency International Guyana Inc (TIGI) believes that her remaining in the post may lead to junior staff members feeling obligated to grant favours to persons associated with the minister.

In a statement on Friday, the local corruption watchdog pointed out that in spite of the transfer, a clear conflict of or “related party” interest would still exist whenever matters affecting the mining operations of the children of Minister Broomes arise, whether they are handled or contributed to by the Minister or not.

“One should also be wary that junior officers might feel obliged to act in a manner that gives favorable treatment to people associated with or related to the Minister, even (or especially) in matters for which the Minister would have declared conflict of interest,” TIGI explained in the statement.

The transparency body further stated that while the issue of “conflict of interest” is neither an evaluation of a person’s character nor an assertion of any intent to engage in wrongdoing on their part, it is a concern about whether it is possible for that persons to use their position to extend special privileges to individuals or entities with whom they are related, or for personal benefit.

On this note, TIGI recognised that the popular recommendation at present is for Minister Broomes to be moved to another ministry.

This recommendation, the body said, is rooted in the experience of the recent past combined with current low level of accountability to the people.

Against this backdrop, the local corruption watchdog posited that even though the intolerance of a more subtle alternative is understandable, if adopted then such an alternative will have to be applied in its entirety.

One such alternative TIGI recommended was for the minister to first declare conflict of interest and recuse herself from all relevant matters. In addition to

Junior Natural Resources Minister Simona Broomes

that, the ministry would also need to become more transparent and more accountable to the public.

Moreover, the statement further stated, “(The Ministry) would then need to make information

Eastern Airline launched in Guyana

E

The ribbon cutting ceremony to launch Eastern Airline in Guyana

astern Airline has extended their services to Guyana and, in partnership with TRAVELSPAN and ONE GUYANA AIR, are aiming to provide reliability and affordable fares to Guyanese.

On Friday May 20th, Eastern Airline made their first landing to Guyana at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) in the presence of Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan.

In honour of the airline’s new air service to Guyana, a ribbon cutting ceremony was done by the wife of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ed Wegel. As the other arriving passengers made their way to the arrival terminal many stood by and witnessed the proud event.

The airline had existed approximately 25 years ago with impeccable standards but was forced to close down its operations. It is now reestablished under new management that is working feverishly to maintain its standards.

Wegel speaking with Guyana Times disclosed her

husband’s enthusiasm towards reopening the airline and serving Guyana. “He has always wanted to do this and I am so happy that we have been able to establish this airline. We began with one aircraft and within one year we have had five more.”

The airline that is quickly expanding will be receiving a “brand new” aircraft in the month of October which will be routed for Guyana.

The aircraft’s first flight to Guyana was fully booked with eager passengers to celebrate Guyana’s Golden Jubilee.

Guyana Times spoke with some of the passengers who related their excitement with the airline and the service they received. One passenger said, “it was a smooth flight back home, I enjoyed it and I will be definitely using them often.”

The CEO speaking at the ceremony disclosed his willingness to serve the Guyanese population and was appreciative of the government for allowing them to operate in Guyana. “We appreciate the effort of the

Government to expedite the paper work and the other certifications we needed so we can start flying here.”

The CEO Further noted that the company is privileged and very honoured to be operating in Guyana.

Public Security Minister, Ramjattan welcomed the new air service into Guyana citing that it will open many productive avenues for Guyanese.

He remarked the initiative as a “tremendous boost to the aviation industry.”

Ramjattan noted the airline service will add “tremendous impetus to enhance the progress we are making”.

“This will help to create the ecotourism foundation we want in the parks,” he adding, noting that the initiative will have a larger impact in months and years ahead.

The aircraft is based in Miami and will be operating from Miami and New York. According to THE CEO, “We are looking to work from places like Toronto and Orlando in the near future.”

available to be scrutinized in order to promote public confidence in its operations. TIGI is of the view that especially in a small society like ours, conflicts of interest and related party concerns will arise and such situations should be avoided as far as possible.”

Nevertheless, TIGI underscored that clear mechanisms that ensure transparency and third party monitoring are required along with awareness and acknowledgement of the conflict of interest position by all concerned.

Despite the many calls from other independent transparency bodies, President David Granger on Thursday stated that he does not see the need for the Ministers removal from the post, noting that only if a “conflict of interest” situation arises, then she will be moved.

“We have a draft code of conduct and if any situation were to arise, I’m very confident that she’d either be put in another place or she would demit office but that situation hasn’t arisen at the present time,” the Head of State said.

Minister Broomes’ mining interests came under scrutiny last

weekend after information surfaced suggesting that she was recently granted another Mining Permit by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).

However, Broomes at a press conference on Monday clarified that no new mining permit was granted, noting that it was a transfer of her dredge to her daughter, whose name is also Simona Broomes.

But Guyana Times was able to obtain a copy of a permit application dated March 4, 2016, in the name of Simona Broomes.

The document contained National Identification (ID) Number 11383803.

Upon investigations, this publication was able to confirm that the ID number is that of Simona Judie Broomes, the full name of the Minister within the Natural Resources Ministry, contradicting what Broomes had earlier said, that it was her daughter who was named in those documents.

Independent analysts are now challenging the president to match his words with action in face of this evidence which has emerged.

Ministers Harmon, Hughes visit ICT Centre of Excellence

W

ork is moving apace for the establishment of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Centre of Excellence for which a Memorandum of Understanding was recently signed between the Governments of Guyana and India.

Minister of State Joseph Harmon, Minister of Public Telecommunications,.

Catherine Hughes and Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Venkatachalam Mahalingam, visited the proposed site for the Centre of Excellence at the National Data Management Building at the University of Guyana’s Turkeyen Campus.

Also present during the site visit were Advisor on E-Governance and Head of the E-Government Unit, Floyd Levi, Training Coordinator of the E-Government Unit, Kim Lawrence, Director of Policy and Training, Malcom Williams and General Manager of the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), Godfrey Proctor.

Discussing the proposed architectural designs: Minister of State, Joseph Harmon (first, right), Advisor on E-Governance, Floyd Levi, Director of Policy and Training, Malcom Williams, Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes and Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Venkatachalam Mahalingam (first from left)

The Ministers, High Commissioner and team examined the architectural designs and drawings for the proposed centre. Works are expected to be completed by the end of August 2016. They also discussed the use and size of the offices, floor space and the make-up of each classroom.

Minister Hughes expressed Guyana’s gratitude to the High Commissioner and

the Republic of India, noting that the project is an exciting one that will boost Guyana’s Information Technology (IT) sector.

The Centre will provide training for public sector ICT professionals to ensure the availability of a highly skilled ICT workforce, equipped with the requisite expertise to meet the increasingly complex demands of the public and private sectors.

More doctors for hinterland communities

R

esidents of Regions One, Seven, eight and nine are to benefit from improved health care services, as several doctors have been deployed in communities in these hinterland regions.

There are plans for more doctors to be stationed in other hinterland communities.

Minister within the Public Health Ministry, Dr Karen Cummings told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that, “we have deployed 19 doctors to …Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine. Additionally, we have had doctors going to areas where we have never had doctors before, like Issano and Imbaimadai, we have doc-

tors that are waiting to be deployed there.”

Meanwhile, the minister expressed satisfaction with the performance of the Regional Health Services (RHS) Department. Pointing to its achievements over the past year, Minister Cummings said, “to date we have seen 1729 patients, especially in …the hinterland regions…137 patients would have had successful surgeries at the Mabaruma, Lethem and Bartica hospitals; we have also had 72 surgical interventions, that’s in Lethem alone.”

Additionally the minister explained that it is the vision of the ministry to ensure that all Guyanese have access to

the best quality of health care.

This has seen major interventions at the Regional level including several outreaches to health care facilities countrywide and meetings with Regional Health workers, primarily Regional Health Officers (RHOs).

These interventions have seen repairs and maintenance works being done at these facilities along with the upgrading of equipment such as x-ray machines, monitors, and surgical equipment.

Further, Minister Cummings noted that there are plans for major improvements for the health sector, primarily in terms of the quality of care offered.

18

guyana-timesgy.com

saturday, may 21, 2016

ARCHIE

ARIES

Make every move count.

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Average mark 15 words Time limit 30 minutes Can you find 21 or more words in LUSTER? The list will be published tomorrow.

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Make one of your plans a PISCES (Feb. 20- reality. Don’t wait for someMarch 20) one else to go first. If you develop and present what you want to do, personal gain will come your way.

saturDAY, may 21, 2016

LeBron drops triple-double, Cavaliers rout Raptors in Game 2

T

he Cleveland Cavaliers’ playoff winning streak has reached double digits, with Cleveland beating the Raptors 108-89 in Game 2 as their dominant postseason continued without concerns.

The Raptors were better on Thursday, but their performance still wasn’t close to handing the Cavaliers their first playoff loss this year. The 10 straight wins from Cleveland -- two sweeps against the Pistons and Hawks, followed by the 2-0 lead now -is the best basketball they’ve played all season. They’re locking down defensively while incinerating teams with a deadly offense led by ridiculous shooting from nearly everyone on the team.

After a good start in Game 1, Toronto had quickly wilted. It looked like they were on track for a much better half in Game 2 and then a game tied at 46 with four minutes remaining turned into 62-48 lead for the Cavaliers at the half. Kyle Lowry descending back into Bad Kyle Lowry, coupled with the poor close to the half, was just too much for Toronto to fight through. The Big Three led the way for Cleveland, even as Tyronn Lue was able to keep their minutes

Cleveland has now won 10 straight games to begin their postseason, one away from tying an NBA record

down. LeBron James dropped 23 points on 13 shots with an 11-rebound, 11-assist triple double, Kevin Love scored 19 and did it on a spectacular 5-of-8 shooting performance, and Kyrie Irving had a team-high 26 points, shooting 12-of-22 with only three turnovers.

Game 3 will come on Saturday with the series shifting to Toronto, but there have been no signs that the tide of this series will shift away from Cleveland’s rampage. (sbnation)

19

Steyn signs for Glamorgan S

outh Africa fast bowling great Dale Steyn will join Glamorgan for the first part of the English domestic Twenty20 competition, the county side announced Friday.

Steyn will join his new teammates at the Cardiffbased club after playing in the Indian Premier League with the Gujarat Lions.

He will be available for Glamorgan's first seven Twenty20 Blast fixtures, with Australia fast bowler Shaun Tait replacing him for the second half of the competition.

Steyn's captain at Glamorgan will be his former South Africa colleague Jacques Rudolph.

"The timing of this opportunity is ideal and there is no better way to prepare than playing in the IPL," said Steyn in a Glamorgan statement.

"I know that Jacques and the rest of the team have set an initial target of qualifying for the quarterfinals and I will do all that I can to give the team the best possible start.

"It's also a valuable opportunity to get some overs under the belt in the lead up to the South Africa test series in a controlled T20 environment."

South Africa face New Zealand in a a two-test series in August, with Steyn set to play for another Twenty20 side before that campaign when he joins the Jamaica Tallawahs in the Caribbean Premier League.

He is set miss South Africa's Tri-Series against Australia and the West Indies in June.

Steyn has taken 178 T20 wickets at 23.22, including 58 at a miserly average of 17.39 in 42 games for South

Africa.

He has also taken 406 wickets in 82 tests and was recently described as the "bowler of our generation" by England quick Stuart Broad.

"Dale's standing in the international game is testament to the talent and consistency that he continues to display in all formats and we look forward to welcoming him to our club," said Glamorgan chief executive Hugh Morris.

"The opportunity to sign a player of this calibre was one that we had to take and we can't wait for him to wear a Glamorgan shirt," the former England batsman added.

Should the Lions reach the IPL final, Steyn's arrival in Wales will be delayed until after Glamorgan's Blast opener at Surrey and he could also miss the home match with Essex. (Super Sport)

Delhi Daredevils win last ball thriller against Sunrisers Hyderabad I

n a thrilling contest which was decided of the last ball of the match, Delhi Daredevils’ Karun Nair played a sterling innings and helped his team to a 6-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad. In a win-it-to-stay-alive contest, the Daredevils restricted SRH to 158-7 and then chased down the runs losing only four wickets in the process. The Daredevils began the final over needing 11 runs, but after four disciplined deliveries from Bhuvneshwar Kumar that yielded only five runs, Karun smashed boundaries off the last two balls to guide his team to a famous victory. The result means the Delhi Daredevils stay alive in the race to

the VIVO IPL 2016 Playoffs, and it now appears the Playoff line-up will only be decided after the last league fixture of the season.

Needing nearly eight runs an over at the start of their chase, DD lost their key batsman Quinton de Kock in the second over.

But Karun Nair, who walked in to bat at number three, anchored the chase, stitched together partnerships along the way, and helped the team over the line. The young batsman from Karnataka played some classy shots in his 59-ball knock; his unbeaten 83 was laced with flowing drives and powerful pull shots. He brought up his halfcentury in the 14th over, needing 42 balls to get to the milestone. But in the final four overs of the chase, when the required run rate had crept past ten runs 4-0-27-2 (w-1), A Mishra 3-0per over, he upped the ante; 21-0, JP Duminy 1-0-9-1 he hit two sixes off Barinder Sran in the seventeenth over Delhi Daredevils innings and then hit the two bound(target: 159 aries off the last two balls to runs from 20 overs) seal the deal.

Q de Kock† c †Ojha b Sra Karun was involved in usen 2 ful partnerships with Rishabh RR Pant run out (Kumar) Pant (32 from 26 balls), who 32 was promoted to open the inKK Nair not out 83 nings; the second-wicket pair JP Duminy c Warner b Sran 17 added 73 runs in just under CR Brathwaite c Sran b ten overs which helped keep Mustafizur Rahman 10 the required run rate in check.

SV Samson not out 3 The third wicket partnerExtras:(lb-4, w-10) 14 ship between Karun and JP Total: (4 wickets; 20 overs) 161 Duminy yielded 35 runs in 4.3 Fall of wickets: 1-9 (de Kock, overs and took the Daredevils 1.5 ov), 2-82 (Pant, 11.4 ov), 3-117 (Duminy, 16.1 ov), closer. Despite losing Duminy 4-143 (Brathwaite, 18.2 ov) and Carlos Brathwaite at Bowling: B Kumar 4-0-33-0 critical moments in the run(w-3), BB Sran 4-0-34-2 (w-1), chase, the presence of a wellMustafizur Rahman 4-0-24-1 set Karun, and the young (w-2), MC Henriques 2-0-18-0, lad’s unflustered head and apDJ Hooda 2-0-16-0, KV Sharma plication took the home side 3-0-25-0, Yuvraj Singh 1-0-7-0 past the finish line.

For Sunrisers Hyderabad,

SCOREBOARD Sunrisers Hyderabad innings (20 overs maximum) DA Warner* c Mishra b Brathwaite 73 S Dhawan run out (Brathwaite) 10 DJ Hooda run out (Mishra) 1 Yuvraj Singh b Brathwaite 10 MC Henriques c Negi b Duminy 18 EJG Morgan c Brathwaite b Coulter-Nile 14 NV Ojha† not out 16 B Kumar run out (Nair/†de Ko ck) 13 Extras: (b-1, lb-1, w-1)3Total (7 wickets; 20 overs) 158 Fall of wickets: 1-46 (Dhawan, 5.6 ov), 2-48 (Hooda, 6.4 ov), 3-66 (Yuvraj Singh, 9.3 ov), 4-105 (Henriques, 13.3 ov), 5-117 (Warner, 15.2 ov), 6-132 (Morgan, 17.3 ov), 7-158 (Kumar, 19.6 ov) Bowling: Z Khan 4-0-26-0, J Yadav 4-0-37-0, NM CoulterNile 4-0-36-1, CR Brathwaite

Barinder Sran (2-34), who was picked in the XI as a replacement for the injured Ashish Nehra, was the most successful bowler.

Mustafizur Rahman was impressive once again; he bowled a sensational 19th over in which he dismissed Brathwaite and conceded only five runs to keep his team alive heading into the final over. Bhuvneshwar bowled four excellent deliveries in the final over before Karun put him away for two boundaries. Sunrisers also had a forgettable day on the field; the bowlers gave away 10 runs through wides, while Warner dropped Karun (when he was on 51) and Bhuvneshwar dropped Duminy.

Earlier in the evening, the Sunrisers Hyderabad innings was one which had several ebbs and flows. David Warner was his belligerent self, pummeling the bowlers, while the rest of his teammates struggled to come to grips with the pitch and outfield conditions. The SRH captain pierced the offside field, drove inside-out over the fielders, and even pulled out the cheeky reverse sweep to send the ball on its way to the thirdman boundary. The Australian also put the ball in the wide gaps in the outfield at Raipur and ran hard between the wickets in humid conditions; he ran as many as 21 singles and 7 twos for himself in his 56-ball innings, apart from running for his partner’s runs too. The left-hander was involved in partnerships of 42 with Shikhar Dhawan and 39 runs with Moises Henriques, before he was fifth out, finding Amit Mishra at the thirdman boundary. Warner made 73 – his seventh half-century of the innings - and hit eight boundaries and a six.

Henriques’ 18 was the second-highest score for SRH , who added 34 runs in the final three overs and finished at 158-7.

If SRH were sloppy on the field, the Daredevils had a very good day, taking most of the catches that came their way and converting half chances to wickets. One sensational effort came from Brathwaite, who

Karun Nair of Delhi Daredevils celebrates their rousing last over victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL match 52

fielded the ball on his follow through with his left hand, picked up the ball with his right hand, did a 360-degree turn and then scored a direct hit at the striker’s end to catch Dhawan short of the crease. Deepak Hooda was run out when he took off for a non-existent single and Mishra, with one stump to aim at, scored a direct hit at the non-striker’s end.

Brathwaite, who was drafted into the DD XI in place of the injured Chris Morris, also picked up two big scalps with the ball – Warner and Yuvraj, single-handedly ran out Dhawan, and then took the catch to dismiss Eoin Morgan. Nathan Coulter-Nile and Duminy picked up a wicket each. Zaheer Khan delivered yet another disciplined spell with the ball, conceding only 26 runs in his four overs. (IPL)

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guyana-times.com

saturDAY, may 22, 2016

Gayle, Bravo and Sammy question ODI selection C

hris Gayle, Dwayne Bravo and Darren Sammy have questioned the selection of the West Indies ODI squad for the tri-series involving Australia and South Africa in June. They expressed surprise at Kieron Pollard and Sunil Narine being in the squad despite not meeting what they considered to be one of the WICB’s criteria for selection - playing West Indies’ domestic 50-over competition.

Gayle, Bravo and Sammy did not play the Nagico Super50 in January because they were playing the Big Bash League in Australia at the time. Pollard and Narine also did not participate in the Nagico Super50, though.

Pollard was injured during the Ram Slam T20 in South Africa in November last year and only regained fitness in time for the 2016 IPL, and Narine was not allowed to play because his bowling action had been declared illegal. He was cleared to bowl by the ICC only in April.

In a series of tweets and retweets, the players who had been left out of the squad expressed their incredulity at the selection. “@KieronPollard55 & #SunilNarine selected for WI Tri-Series. How is that possible @westindies?” asked Gayle on Twitter. “WICB stop Sunil from playing super 50 and now they pick him. If @KieronPollard55 was fit he would’ve play the

Chris Gayle, Dwaye Bravo, Darren Sammy and Andre Russell were all part of the West Indies winning Word T20 squad but are absent from the Tri Nations set up

B Bash just like the rest of us!!”

Bravo called the development “magic” on Twitter.

“Joke of the day: WI selectors. One minute Pollard & Narine were not good enough & now are perfect

for Tri Nation series? It’s like magic! One minute we have to be available for domestic super 50 to be selected and the next minute, it seems we don’t. Magic! Get serious people!”

Sammy, while congratulating Pollard, asked him how he had managed a comeback: “@KieronPollard55 great to see u back in odi team but tell me how did u qualify for selection having not played the super50 or ODI since 2014.”

In response to Sammy and the others, Pollard seemed to say he did not know why he had not played an ODI since October 2014: “Bingo, or I should say Pingo. Numbers shuffled and up popped P55!! Or

should I [say] lucky days!!

Think the truth, or real reasons of expulsion will finally come out??? Have been baffled for 15 months. Then Pingo.”

Andre Russell was the other high-profile omission from the West Indies ODI squad. He too did not play the Nagico Super50 and played the Big Bash League instead. It is not known, however, whether the injury he sustained during the IPL played a part in his non-selection. None of these players - Gayle, Bravo, Sammy and Russell - were contracted by the WICB earlier this year, but all four were part of West Indies’ title-winning squad at the World T20 in India. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Bolt dips below 10 seconds England in control after to win in Ostrava England v Sri Lanka, 1st Test, Headingley, 2nd day

Jonny Bairstow 140 & James Anderson 5-16

E

ngland have a stranglehold on the first Test after forcing Sri Lanka to follow on 207 runs in arrears.

James Anderson took 5-16 and Stuart Broad 4-21 to dismiss the tourists for 91 on the second day at Headingley.

England had extended their overnight 171-5 to 298 all out, with Jonny Bairstow completing a fine second

international absence made him determined to make the most of his second chance.

“You learn a lot about yourself when you’re out of the side, wanting to get back to where you potentially could have been,” he said.

“There’s no better place to do it than at your home ground. It’s been a while coming.”

Bairstow’s brilliance Bairstow has been in

James Anderson wrapped up Sri Lanka’s innings with figures of 5 for 16 in 11.4 overs, his 19th five-wicket haul in 115 Tests

Test century before holing out for 140.

Broad claimed early two wickets and Anderson returned late on to wreak havoc, with Sri Lanka 1-0 at the close.

Bad light ended play two balls into their second innings but, with three days left in the game and cloud cover expected to remain, helping bowlers swing the ball, England will be confident of going on to take the lead in this three-match series.

“The pitch is very different to a normal Headingley one - there’s a bit more in it for the bowlers,” said Anderson.

“When it’s swinging like that, that’s my ideal conditions. I find it a lot of fun.”

Yorkshire’s Bairstow earned a recall to the side midway through the Ashes series last year and said his

peerless form this summer, and had come in to this match desperate to score a Test ton on his home ground.

And after his overnight partner Alex Hales had ended his patient 206-ball innings with an ill-judged swipe off Rangara Herath to be caught at deep cover for 86, Bairstow pushed on with Steven Finn as Sri Lanka’s bowlers struggled to make best use of the conditions.

Bairstow’s hundred came up off 144 balls courtesy of a couple of overthrows, and he removed his helmet to point his bat and clenched glove to the Leeds skies.

Naturally attacking and freed from the pre-century nerves, he continued to accelerate, taking 18 off one over from Pradeep and working the strike intelligently with Finn.

He had struck 13 fours and a six when his adven-

ture finally cost him, an attempted lofted drive over the top off Dushmantha Chameera instead ending in Nuwan Pradeep’s hands at mid-off.

It was a critical innings from Bairstow, comprising almost half the team’s tally and, with his wicketkeeper’s gloves on, he was straight back in the action.

Broad produced a classic Headingley delivery - pitched up on off stump, moving away late - to take the edge of Dimuth Karunaratne’s bat, Anderson induced another edge with a short, spitting delivery to account for Kaushal Silva for 11 and Broad repeated the trick to dismiss Kusal Mendis for a duck.

It was perfect bowling for quintessential Leeds conditions, and a batting order missing its great stars of the past decade had no answer.

Ben Stokes had Dinesh Chandimal taken beautifully by a diving James Vince at third slip and, while skipper Angelo Mathews marshalled a brief rearguard, Anderson - who was swinging the ball both ways - returned in the extended evening session to worsen the tourists’ predicament.

A big inswinger had Mathews trapped lbw for 15, although a review would have seen the batsman survive, and when debutant Dasun Shanaka edged behind for a golden duck Bairstow had his fourth catch of the innings.

With 99 needed to avoid the follow-on, Anderson kept up the assault, clearing up the tail to finish with 5-16 - his best Test figures at Headingley - and move past India’s Kapil Dev and into sixth in the all-time Test wicket-taker’s list.

While bad light denied him the chance to make inroads in the second innings, it was a fitting reward for 11 overs of persistent accuracy and threat. (BBC Sport)

S

ix-time Olympic champion Usain Bolt ran a season's best 9.98 seconds in winning the men's 100m at the Golden Spike meeting in the Czech Republic.

In his first European outing of the year, the Jamaican recovered from a slow start to win with ease with Ramon Gittens 0.23 secs behind in second.

Bolt clocked 10.05 seconds in his only other 100m of the season - at the Cayman Islands Invitational Meet.

The 29-year-old needed treatment on a tight hamstring following that race.

He took a break from racing after the Beijing World Championships last August, where he won golds in the 100m, 200m and 4x100m relay.

In the build up to the race in Ostrava, the 100m and 200m world record holder said his main aim was to break the world 200m record at this summer's Rio Olympics.

(BBC Sport)

CONCACAF targets Jack Warner with massive lawsuit

T

Jack Warner

he Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) is seeking damages of US$50 million from its former president Austin Jack Warner.

Warner, has been a man in the wars since FIFA was hit with numerous counts of corruption against some of its senior official

and former officials.

The former FIFA Vice-president is fighting extradition from Trinidad and Tobago to the United States, where he is wanted for counts of racketeering and other corruption charges.

According to CONCACAF, Warner, used his influence to acquire funding for a lavish football facility in Trinidad and Tobago but after he resigned from CONCACAF in 2011, it was discovered that he owned the land the facility was on.

Jeffrey Webb, who succeeded Warner and who was also indicted on corruption charges for which he has pleaded guilty, had said the act had left him "shell-shocked, dismayed and upset".

The site, which Warner alleges was a gift from Sepp Blatter, former FIFA president, is said to include a hotel and banquet facilities.

Initially though, Warner had said he did not own the property.

Warner is joined as defendant in the case by his wife, his accountant and two companies he is linked to. (Sportsmax)

Murray in no hurry to find new coach

A

ndy Murray says he is in no rush to find a new coach such is his form heading into the French Open.

Murray - who split from coach Amelie Mauresmo earlier this month - beat Novak Djokovic for the first time on clay last week to win the Italian Open.

The presence of Jamie Delgado in his team means the world number two is in "less of a rush" to replace Mauresmo.

The Briton said: "I'm playing very well so there's no need to make a change a few days before the French."

Former British player Delgado joined Murray's set-up in February and his first tournament as the 29-year-old's sole coach ended with Murray beating world number one Djokovic in Rome.

The Scot said he had not spoken to any prospective coaches but was open to the idea of bringing someone new into his team.

Andy Murray

YELLOW PAGES saturDAY, may 21, 2016 | www.guyana-times.com

CAR RENTALS

optician

TO let

Need a car to rent? Then call 6111018 for the best cars at great prices.

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

FOR RENT 1,000 TO 10,000 SQUARE FT. WAREHOUSE SPACE, OFFICE SPACE & SHOP FRONT. CALL: 592600-2040/600-5758

health

VEHICLES FOR SALE

Progressive Auto Rental: Cars from $4000 and up. Tel: 219-3900, 6435122

dentistry Dentures provided in 72 hours from as low as $4500. Contact Dr B Stuart, 209B Charlotte St, Lacytown. Tel: 225-5034

Driving School Shalom Enterprise Driving School 2 Croal Street, Stabroek.

You can obtain an International Drivers Permit Covering 131 Countries. Tel: 227-3869, 6447052, 659-3381

EDUCATION REGISTER - learn to play drums, guitar, keyboard and train your voice NOW OR in the Summer.

Call 225-1151/ 657-8404.

FOR SALE FOR SALE 3 HEIFERS. TEL: 658-0115 Powerline Battery Water/wholesale.

1 litre and 0.5 litre sizes. Tel: 680-3863 One Toyota Spacio, One Toyota Forklift, One Motorcycle 110cc, One Cement Mixer (Ransom), Vick’s Hardware. Tel: 264-2682/649-0707 Clean Garden Earth. Also excavating, grading and leveling done. Call 6279977 Road to Belwasa and A Dip at the Sangam, Indentureship Novels at Austin’s Book Store and at Lachmansingh Drug Store. Tel: 2265053.

For sale by lot: Lot (1): 2 bath tubs, bathroom fittings and fixtures & toilet set; shower fittings - $150,000 and Lot (2): 1 Dell desktop computer & HP scanner - $25,000. Call 225-2676 or 601-5285.

One 6 inch dredge, one 4-cylinder MWM, one 3-cylinder MWM engine in working condition with all other complete equipment in good working condition. 679-3655

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Email; healthworldhc@gmail.com

lAND FOR SALE Land at La Grange Public Road to Sea Dam, Size 4 Acres, could be used for commercial or Housing Scheme. Tel 625-1514 1.5 Acre Land in W.B.D. Call #:658-0115

One land 100/50 at Good Hope Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara for sale.

Priced six million dollars. For more information, kindly call 623-0156 or 6953150 (serious inquires only)

One AE110 XE Limited Sprinter. Very Good Condition; female driver. Tel: 223-0654

Eccles: $27M Neg. Enterprise Sec C: $20M Neg. MonRepos: $30M Neg. South Ruimveldt Park:$20M Neg. Broad Street: $80M Neg. Charlotte Street between Camp and Alexander: $55M Neg. Providence(land): $6.5M Neg. Parfaite Harmony(land): $4.5M Neg. Contact: 691-1521 Transported property in Regent Street between Wellington & Camp Streets. Tel 625-1514

GOOD HOPE AND OGLE. CONTACT: 673-5546, 222-3066, 682-7257, 679-0987

flowers

services

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

Tel: 227-3553/225-3315

House plans & estimates, weeding of grass and spraying done within 48hrs.

Call: 216-0671; 622-0267; 692-8464

IMMIGRATION SERVICES PROFESSIONALLY PREPARED BY IMMIGRATION CONSULTANT. PASSPORT AND VISA APPLICATIONS (PERMANENT/VISITOR) FOR USA, CANADA, UK, CHINA, INDIA, ETC. SABITA’S IMMIGRATION SERVICES. TEL: 225-6496/662-6045

KEY CUTTing Professional Key Shop, 125 Carmichael Street, Georgetown. Phone: 225-3923, mobile: 621-3249. We cut any type of key, service and repair all types of locks.

Get your extra key today.

One Toyota Raum (New Model) in excellent condition. $1.5M. Contact – 624-5002

One Pitbull Minibus for sale. Excellent Condition. Call:624-5141 or email queries to mckriodax@gmail.com

Bargain! One 3-bedroom wooden building in Georgetown. Solid greenheart beams, columns & boards. $1.3M Negotiable. Call 227-4285

Immigration & Visa Services We handle all Canadian, USA and UK immigration and visa matters. Self sponsorships, holiday/visitor’s visas, work permits, students visas, family, class, immigration forms, embassy enquiries, appeals for refused cases, US green card lottery, business class waivers, pardons, etc. Get your visa approved. High success rate. Balwant Persaud & Associates. Certified Immigration Consultants, 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings & Lights Sts) Tel: 225-1540, 622-8308, 655-3105.

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One RZ Minibus BLL series in working condition. $400,000.00

Formerly Globe Cinema, Corner lot, Church and Waterloo Street Size 125 ft x 133 ft Tel: 610-2234

House Lot, Diamond New Scheme between 2nd & 3rd Avenue. Contact: 638-1529

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

Call 223-6834/600-7719.

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Ifa Temple – Are you having serious problems and urgently need spiritual help? Call 621-0552 now. Email: anew-life@live.com Dutch spiritual healing in removing evil spirit, bad luck, evil sickness, spells, reuniting lovers and prosperity to business. Call #: 612-6417, 6875653, 220-0708

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

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

Team Jaguars roar to victory; WIFB Short Range C/ship to be contested today

NISSAN –X Trail 2013 Model Fully Loaded, 2500cc CVT 31,000KM, 8.9 Mil – Negotiable. Serious Enquires Only. Call: 685-3069/644-9141

One Toyota Picnic (8 Seater) in excellent condition.Mags Rims, DVD Player etc. $1.7M neg. Contact – 6245002

property for sale

WIFBSC WADADLI CUP

Toyota WILL VS-low mileage. 2010 Kawasaki Ninja 250R – imported from the USA, low mileage. Tel: 6749002

Land at La Grange Public Road, Size 4 Acre, could be used for commercial or housing scheme. Tel#: 625-1514

2 STOREY CONCRETE HOUSE 35 X 45 ENCLOSED DOWNSTAIRS, SIZE OF LAND 65 X 120, SECTION A DIAMOND HOUSING SCHEME, EAST BANK DEMERARA, CONTACT # 6645052/617-0583

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Tel: 675-5998/268-2277.

NO CHILDREN. Working Persons Only

21

sports

From left: Mahendra Persaud, Lennox Braithwaite, Dylan Fields and Ransford Goodluck

C

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

VACANCIES Cashier for Supermarket. Tel: 6240033 One (1) Cook. Tel: 624-0033 One (1) Maid. Tel: 624-0033 Driver for Water Truck. Tel: 6803863 Security – In store; Day Duty. Tel: 680-3863

WANTED Fast growing food distribution company is looking for a driver, salesperson and canter driver with experience and Police clearance.

231-8344/231-8529 One live-in female housekeeper, over 35 years old and from outside of Georgetown. Tel:223-0654 Fast growing food distribution company is looking for a driver and salesperson with a car, experience and police clearance. Call: 231-8344 or 231-8529 Wanted, One Joiner to work in Crown Dam, ECD. Call: 627-3405 or 222-4576.

SALESGIRLS WITH EXPERIENCE PLEASE BRING WRITTEN APPLICATION AND CV TO TRISTAR ELECTRICAL BRASSONIC Bldg.

(MAIN ENTRANCE 42 WATER ST. G/Town. 231-7101 Vacancy exists for one fulltime Pharmacist to work on the West Coast of Demerara in Metenmeerzorg. Telephone: 2750733

Legal Notice 2016 – HC – CIV-W-62. IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT. CIVIL JURISDICTION. BETWEEN: WAVENEY ABRAMS Plaintiff -AndDEXTER ABRAMS, Defendant. TO: Dexter Abrams, 675 “B” Field Sophia, East Coast Demerara. NOTICE OF PUBLICATION: TAKE NOTICE that a writ of summons has been filed in the Supreme Court Registry (Demerara) against you on the 22nd day of February, 2016 by Waveney Abrams, for the following Orders:- a) Declaration that the plaintiff is entitled to sever the joint ownership of the property situated at Zone: E.C.D, Block: XXIV, Parcel: 400 Part of Buxton. b) An order that the Plaintiff and the Defendant have separate accounts with the Guyana Electricity and Guyana Water Incorporated. c) An order that with the requisite permission a fence separating the property in half into the Plaintiff’s half and the Defendant’s half. d) An order that the Defendant with the requisite permission have a separate entrance to the West of the property and the Plaintiff on the East of the property. e) An order that the Plaintiff and the Defendant are entitled to their own transports. f) An order that if the Defendant is desirous of selling his half that the Plaintiff be given first preference. g) Such further or other relief that this Honorable Court deems just. h) Costs. UPON APPLICATION in person or by letter to Mr. Jailall T. Kissoon, Ms. Rishi R. Kissoon, Mr. Sandil S. Kissoon and Ms. Rishi R. Kissoon and Mr. Satyesh S. Kissoon, Attorneys –atlaw of Lot 99 Hadfield Street, Werk-enRust, Georgetown, Demerara, Guyana, a sealed and certified copy of the said application will be delivered and sent to you. IF WITHIN twenty- eight (28) days after the date of the second and final publication of this notice no application has been made or appearance entered the Court may proceed to hear the said Application and pronounce judgment in your absence.

For Registrar, Dated at Georgetown, Demerara, This 18th day of May, 2016.

onsistent shooting by the Guyana Jaguars 4-member team saw them cantering to victory in the Wadadli Team Cup when the penultimate day of shooting was contested at the Crabbs Fullbore Range in Antigua on Friday.

After surrendering the West Indies Fullbore Shooting Council (WIFBSC) Individual X-Class title to Jamaica after defending champion Lennox Braithwaite lost out as well as fellow Guyanese Mahendra Persaud; but winning the O-Class category through Sherwin Felicien, the Guyanese shooters are leaving no stones unturned when it came to taking back the Short Range championship to the South American mainland.

Friday’s Wadadli Cup saw the competing teams which numbered 11 (4-members each, shooting 2 sighting shots and 7 to count at the 300, 500 and 600 yards ranges. Guyana Jaguars which led from the first range throughout the shoot and only dropped 2 points at the first two ranges and 14 at the last, ended with a total of 402 points and 21Vs. Barbados A came second with 391.20 whilst Jamaica Gold was third one point back with 390.17. The second Guyana team, Team Pirai, ended 9th.

Lennox Braithwaite led with two possibles for the Guyana Jaguars at the 300 and 500 ranges while Fullbore Captain Mahendra Persaud also shot one at 300; Vice-Captain Dylan Fields achieved his at the 500 yards.

Braithwaite only dropped 2 points for the entire three ranges while Persaud and Fields dropped 5 each and the other member of the team, Ransford Goodluck, 6 to cap a fine day at the range, exhibiting good form ahead of today’s big match.

Barbados A owe their

good showing to the excellent form of the top female shot in the Caribbean, Shelly-Ann Hinds who missed possibles at both the 300 and 500 yards ranges whilst dropping just 5 points for the day. Hinds’ teammate Louis King also dropped 5 points while the only possible for them was achieved by Marlon King at 500 yards.

Other shooters returning possibles on the day were David Rickman of the Jamaica Gold at 300, dropping 3 shots for the entire day; Anderson Perry (300 yards) of Antigua Black who dropped just 2 points overall; Paul Archer (Guyanese) and Tom Maynard of Canada at 300 yards and Ryan Sampson of Guyana Pirai at 500 yards.

Commenting on the performance of Guyana Jaguar, Head Wind Coach ACP Paul Slowe stated that he was very pleased with the performances of the quartet given the challenging conditions that all the shooters had to face.

He noted that while the Jaguars only dropped 2 points each at the first two ranges they battled well to only drop 14 at the final range, the same as Barbados A, Jamaica Gold dropped one less.

Commenting on today’s 8-Member Team Match, Captain Mahendra Persaud said that barring any major challenges, Guyana should retain the Short Range Championship, symbol of supremacy in the Caribbean.

Guyana are also the Long Range Champions.

Team Guyana will come from Mahendra Persaud, Lennox Braithwaite, Dylan Fields, Ransford Goodluck, Ryan Sampson, Leo Romalho, Sherwin Felicien and Peter Persaud. The shoot will be 10 rounds at each range with 2 sighters.

Persaud, Braithwaite, Goodluck and Fields are also Assistant Wind Coaches.

22

GUYANA-TIMES.COM

saturDAY, may 21, 2016

National Junior Men U-23 Independence Golden Jubilee Day of Athletics Set for Tomorrow whipped 7-1 by Chile Junior Pan American Championships

T

he Guyana National Junior Men’s Hockey team opened their Junior Pan American Championships campaign on a bad note. The Guyanese went down to Chile 7 goals to 1 in Canada yesterday. The Guyanese defense proved to be their biggest weakness conceding in the 20th minute when Chile’s Franco Becerra fired his country ahead.

The goal led to the opening of the flood gates with a

double from Juan Ambroso in the 33rd and 44th minute. Nils Strabucchi also got into the act and unto the score sheets 2 minutes later. The under-23 men from the land of many waters were able to grab a consolation goal in the 58 minute from the stick of Aroydy Brandford. Hopes for a dramatic comeback were dashed in the next 5 minutes with a double from Chile’s Nicolas Renz in the 62nd and 63rd minute.

Chile’s Jose Hurtado closed of the scoring in the 67th minute to seal an emphatic victory for the men from the land of poets.

Guyana continue their campaign on today (Saturday May 21) against Mexico at 15:00 hrs ahead of their meeting with second seed and host nation Canada on Monday at 17:30 hrs.

Local fans can continue to stream the matches live on the www.panamhockey.org website.

Oranisers of the event Burgette Williams-Ford (Centre) and David Thomas (to her left) flanked

by Representatives of the Athletic Association of Guyana

T 5-A-Side Football fun day to be held in Linden GFF to celebrate CONCACAF WOMEN’S FOOTBALL DAY…

T

he Guyana Football Federation (GFF) will participate in the second staging of the Confederation of North, Central American and

Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) Women’s Day initiative today, May 21 with a 5-A-side football display from various female teams in Guyana at the Wisburg Secondary School Ground, Linden.

The one-day event celebrated by the various Member Associations throughout the CONCACAF region is aimed at further promoting women’s football throughout the region.

“CONCACAF has created the Women’s Football Day as a unique initiative to encourage greater participation from women of all ages

in the game,” the statement from CONCACAF said. CONCACAF has a successful history with women’s football including the hosting of the last FIFA Women’s World Cup which was assessed to be the most successful ever.

A brief opening ceremony will be held before the kick-off of the fun day at 10:00hrs. The Fun day will feature 11 teams from Regions 3, 4, 6 and 10.

Admission to the venue is absolutely free and the GFF encourages everyone to go and support the female teams as part of the Women’s Football Day celebration.

he Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) in collaboration with the Ex-Athletes Track and field Event will host an Independence day of athletics on Sunday May 22. The event is a calendar event for Guyana’s Golden Jubilee of Independence celebrations. The days preceding will begin at 06:00 with a 5K and 10K road race which starts and finishes at the Carifesta Sports Complex on Carisfesta Avenue.The focus will then be shifted to Track and Field events at the Leonora Track & Field facility, West Coast Demerara for an 11:00 scheduled start. The brainchild behind the meet is ex-athlete and overseas based Guyanese Burgettete Williams-Ford who got the idea after attending

the unity march last year in New York, USA. Being overwhelmed by the impact of such an event, the Linden born and former member of the Guyana National Service (GNS) along with fellow ex GNS members decided to plan a 10 K road race. After further discussions with other ex athletes, fellow overseas Guyanese David Thomas was integral in gathering resources and the idea of adding track and Field to the event was thus conceived.The road to this event wasn’t as easy as it may seem as according to Ms. Williams-Ford, she had to return home in November last after letters that were sent to the President of the AAG and the Ministry of Education went unanswered. The Golden Jubilee of Independence event

was thus given approval after successful talks with the President of the AAG Mr. Aubrey Hutson and Minister within the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture Youth and Sport Ms. Nicolette Henry.The event is expected to attract full participation from Athletes across various schools and clubs.

There will be medals for the first, second and third place finishers for all events while bicycles are to be awarded to first, second and third place finishers for the boys and girls under-16 and 16-20 categories.For the 10 K event, male and female winners are guaranteed $40,000 with second to fifth receiving $30,000, $20,000, $15,000 and $10,000 respectively.

Vieira thanks Fly Jamaica for CMRC assistance G

uyanese super biker Matthew Vieira is boasting a positive outlook for his weekend’s opening round of the Caribbean Motor Racing Champions (CMRC) 2016 at Jamwest racing circuit in Jamaica.

Speaking exclusively today with Guyana Times Sport, the young Vieira said, “I’m feeling very positive about myself and my bike ahead of this weekend.

I want to heap a lot of praises on Fly Jamaica. Without them, we wouldn’t be here.

They flew my bike in free of charge and without them; I wouldn’t be racing this weekend.”

With the kind gesture, Vieira was able to fly his Triumph Daytona to Jamaica at no cost which affords him the opportunity to compete thanks to Airline Company.

He also thanked his other sponsors, Mohammed’s enterprise, Truck Masters and Game Express for without their support his participation wouldn’t be possible this weekend.

Vieira will join 2015 super-bike Champion, his cousin Elliot Vieira as well

Matthew Vieira on his super bike in a recent event at South Dakota Circuit, Timehri

as Stephen Vieira, Paul Yearwood and Leroy Cort in Guyana’s title defence of the CMRC. On the four wheel side of things, Kristian and Kevin Jeffrey join Mohan Ragasammy in group 4 while Danny Persaud is expected to give the opposition hell in both groups

three and four.

Nazim Mohammed is the other group three competitor while Rameez Mohammed is expected to turn out in both groups two and three.

Team Guyana is the overall CMRC champion having won the title in 2015.

guyana-times.com

saturDAY, may 21, 2016

GABF happy to have DC Jammers T back in Guyana – Hinds

4 teams battle for Independence T20 Cup at Albion today

T

he Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) held a press conference and welcome ceremony yesterday at Cara Lodge, Quamina Street as a lead up to the DC Jammers four-game Goodwill Tour set to tip-off tonight.

GABF’s President, Nigel Hinds, DC Jammers assistant coach Clarence Wallerson, Head Coach Michael Creppy and players of the DC Jammers among others were present at the conference.

President of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF), Nigel Hinds stated that the GABF looks forward to engagement between GABF and the DC Jammers since this year the Jammers will be playing against local clubs rather that the National Basketball Team; giving exposure to a

wider pool of players from the various local clubs.

DC Jammers’ assistant coach and Guyanese born, Clarence Wallerson expressed his gratitude towards the GABF for hosting the Jammers as part of the 50th Independence anniversary celebrations.

“The DC Jammers relish this opportunity to come back to Guyana, especially during Guyana’s 50th Independence Celebrations; we look forward to a great tour.”

Wallerson also highlighted that such a tour is important for the basketball development since his players will be able to demonstrate their skill, sportsmanship and a high level of competition with the Guyanese players.

Jammers’ head coach, Michael Creppy pointed out that fans should look out for

GCB/Hand-in-Hand Group of Companies U-19 Intercounty 50 Overs Tournament

Travis Persaud (right) collects his Man of the Match Trophy from Match Referee Colin Stuart

D

emerara advance to final after beating U-17’s by 16 runs On an overcast day along the East Bank of Demerara, Demerara defeated the National Under-17 Select team by 16 runs under the Duckworth/Lewis Method as Guyana Cricket Board (GCB)/Hand-in-Hand Group of Companies Under -19 50 over inter-county tournament resumed with third round action yesterday at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

The match started at 10:00 Hrs, 30 minutes late, due to early morning rain with Demerara winning the toss and batting first.

After four overs in their innings and the score on 13/0, the heavens opened and saw about 2 hours of play being lost. This forced a reduction in the number of overs per side to 35.

After the interruption, Demerara found the going tough and were restricted to 140/8 from their 35 overs. Raymond Perez topscored with 29 (2x4), while Ronaldo Ali-Mohammed made 23 (2x6) and Sherfane Rutherford 16. The National Select U-17’s utilized the

conditions beautifully with Kevlon Anderson picking up 2-29 from seven overs, leftarm spinner Ashmead Nedd 2-30 while Kevin Sinclair (129) and Kevin Umroa (1-19) had one wicket each.

When the National U-17 Select Team took to the crease there was a solid opening partnership between Sachin Singh and Bhaskar Yadram which was aided by some wayward bowling especially from Ali-Mohammed.

However, Demerara skipper Travis Persaud grabbed 4-11 to cop the Man-of-theMatch Award as he joined forces with off-spinner Richie Looknauth (3-13) to break the back of the U-17’s. Ronaldo Ali-Mohammed picked up 2 for 26 from 6 overs after going for a few in his first spell.

The National Select U-17’s were eventually shot out for 128 in the final over after they were asked to make 145 from 35 overs under the Duckworth/Lewis Method.

Demerara captain Travis Persaud was named Man of the Match.

The competition continues today with Essequibo taking on Berbice from 09:30 Hrs.

Jammers up and coming star the Guyanese born, Winston Robinson who has displayed his “exceptional, extraordinary and phenomenal” skill, talent and athleticism on numerous occasions for the Jammers and noted that it would be a treat to have Robinson represent Guyana one day.

The Jammers will take on four of Guyana’s top basketball clubs as part of their four game Goodwill tour, with the first game this evening against Ravens. They will then oppose Linden unit; the Retrieve Raiders on May 22nd before coming up against Pacesetters on May 24th. The four game tour will conclude on May 27th against reigning Road to Mecca Champions; the Colts. Each game will feature clashes from our school teams currently engaged in the National School Basketball Festival. Jump ball time is 18:30 Hrs.

he excitement of T20 cricket takes over Albion Sports Complex today with four teams of talented and exciting cricketers vying for the annual Independence Cup. The cricket extravaganza which is organized by Team MMR and the Region Six Jubilee Committee begins at 08:00 Hrs with the first semi-final. The second semi-final will follow then the grand final will be played under floodlights.

The event has attracted some international players as well as Caribbean Premier League Players and players with first class experience.

Ramnaresh Sarwan, who will be playing for the Trinbago Knight Riders in CPL 2016 is expected to join the Canje Pheasant team while Shivnarine Chanderpaul will be in the Victoria Royals uniform.

Shimron Hetmyer, Christopher Barnwell, Paul Wintz, Anthony Bramble, Assad Fudadin, Devendra Bishoo, Veerasammy Permaul who are present and former Guyana Amazon Warriors players while Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Romario Shepherd, Raun Johnson and Kevon Boodie have played domestic cricket. Jonathan Foo who will be a Jamaica Tallawah player this year in CPL is also slated to play.

Teams

Berbice Jubilee Titans: Chanderpaul Hemraj, Troy Gonsalves, Paul Wintz, Andy Mohan, Arrif Chan (Captain), Totaram Rajaram, Omesh Mathura, Avishkar Sewkarran, Tagenarine Chanderpaul,

23

Tevin Imlach and Shimron Hetmyer will be in action today at Albion Sports Complex

Sherfane Rutherford, Demetri Cameron, Yudendra Harinarine, Parmeshwar Chatterrpaul and Samuel Kishnasammy.

West Berbice Jaguars: Rennison Mitchell, Quacey McPherson, Rafael Estraido, Brentnol Woolford, Kevin Jawahir, Waquar Hassan, Stephon Adams, Raun Johnson, Kevon Boodie, Shiv Chanderpaul, Lindel Bod, Akenauth Persaud and Anthony Adams.

Victoria Royals: Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Jonathan Foo, Surujnairne Kandasammy, Anthony Bramble, Assad Fudadin, Clinton Pestano, Tevin Imlach, Eon Hooper, Shawn Pereira, Dilbert Hicks, Jason Sinclair, J. Dahani and S. Dewar.

Canje Pheasant Team reads: Shimron Hetmyer, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Chris Barnwell, Steven Jacobs, Anthony D’Andrade, Wahied Edwards, Seon Hetmyer, Kevin Ramdeen, Romario Shepherd, Kassim Khan, Linden Austin, Nail Smith, Hakem Hinds, Suresh Dhanai and Keon DeJesus.

saturdAY, May 21, 2016

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

Junior Pan American Championships

National Junior Men U-23 whipped 7-1 by Chile

Pg 22 Guyana National Under-23 Team ahead of their match against Chile

GABF happy to have DC Jammers back in Guyana - Hinds Pg 23

GABF President Nigel Hinds (left) DC Jammers Assistant Coach Clarence Wallerson (3rd right) and Jammers Head Coach Michael Creppy (far right) at the press conference yesterday

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