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Ministry of the Presidency hosts Christmas P16 carolling event

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 3078

Friday, December 23, 2016

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Far-flung businesses face challenges in accessing finance – SBB

Govt to sign billions P10 in loans next year

Guyana intensifies efforts to attain FAA Category 1 status

Traffic ranks remanded for narcotics P9 trafficking

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Page 14

…as millions in loans, grants approved for sector in 2016 Page 7

Gunmen invade Diamond Fire Station Page 2

– suspect in custody

Holiday shopping blues

Essequibo vendors P16 lament slow business

Guyanese, visitors P15 flock to Logos Hope Book Ship Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo helping to distribute gifts during a function at the Windsor Forest Primary School on the West Coast of Demerara on Thursday afternoon

Minister Scott apologises for Sugar workers, Union picket “virtual impotence” Ministry of the Presidency remark Page 2

Page 7

8 Guyanese Air Traffic Controllers return to P15 boost aviation sector

2 news Sugar workers, Union picket Ministry of the Presidency friDAY, december 23, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

– call on President Granger to end “the blatant and glaring discrimination”

Protestors in front of Skeldon Estate

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ugar workers along with officials of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) on Thursday staged a picketing exercise outside of the Ministry of the Presidency. According to GAWU, the action is part of a wider exercise taking place across the sugar industry,

outside the Administrative offices of the Estates. The representatives are denouncing the Guyana Sugar Corporation’s (GuySuCo) harsh stance of constricting workers’ wages and salary to 2014 levels.

In a statement issued on Thursday, GAWU said the workers and the union are

calling on President David Granger to end the blatant and glaring discrimination perpetuated on the sugar workers for two consecutive years and; resort to having the union’s wage/salary claim for 2016 addressed at the conciliatory level within a timeframe was thwarted

by GuySuCo. The insistence by GuySuCo that the examination in the National Assembly of the 2017 National Budget proposals precluded discussions of the union’s wage/salary claim of 8 per cent. Also, the ‘excuses’ by the Corporation’s Chief Industrial Relations Manager regarding a busy schedule rendered the conclusion of the conciliatory proceedings just a few days before the December 23, 2016 closure of the current crop. At the bilateral and conciliatory levels, no pay increases were approved

by GuySuCo obviously and understandably a stance in

sync with the ruling of the APNU/AFC Government and the GuySuCo IMC team.

GAWU reiterated to GuySuCo representatives at the various meetings that their consistent bad treatment of workers of recent will only go to stoke dissatisfaction among the thousands of sugar workers throughout the sugar belt.

“Inevitably, demotivation and declining morale of the workers will result and which will not be in the industry’s interest at this time.

Our union repeatedly pointed out too that while the in-

dustry will seek to produce maximum sugar production vis-à-vis the resources it employs, diversification into electricity production, white sugar, alcohol and distilling, all recommended by the Sugar Commission of Inquiry established by the APNU/ AFC Government last year offer good prospects for a viable future. Simultaneously, we reminded GuySuCo that cattle rearing, rice cultivation, aquaculture, and orchard fruits have had miserable results in the past,” GAWU stated.

Further, the union noted that it is rather despondent that President Granger has not even acknowledged the union’s correspondence sent to him on December 15, 2016, requesting that Government’s bonus of $25,000 be paid to sugar workers as well. In recent months, correspondences sent by GAWU to Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo and Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, on matters relating to workers interests and the future of the industry have not been acknowledged as

well, it added.

“In this Season of Goodwill, it is disheartening for GAWU to record that sugar workers and their families will be unable to fully enjoy this festive period unlike their compatriots in other sectors. It is indeed vexing that workers children and grandchildren may not be able to receive the usual goodies the Season brings with it,” the union stressed.

According to GAWU, sugar workers are acquiring bitter lessons and accumulating sad experiences over these last 19 months; they are able to see how much they were deceived when many in high offices made grand promises to them; now, they must fight to protect and preserve even minimal benefits they earlier enjoyed.

“We are sure that the experiences and the unwarranted pressures they face now-a-days will lift their class awareness and help them in their continuing struggles against injustices and for their all-round betterment,” the statement added.

Gunmen invade Diamond Fire Station – suspect in custody

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n another brazen daylight robbery, armed bandits on Thursday afternoon stormed the

Diamond/Grove Fire Station and robbed firefighters of cash and other valuables.

According to one of the firemen who were attacked just after noon, two gunmen entered the premises, while five other firefighters were on duty.

Guyana Times was told that the unmasked bandits demanded that the Fire Service ranks hand over their belongings and they complied. One of the firefighters, however, darted to safety, managing to escape the bandits, and immediately alerted residents in the area about the unfolding incident.

Unfortunately, his call for help also alerted the bandits who quickly fled the scene with the firemen’s bags, which reportedly contained some $160,000 in cash in total.

Police were contacted and promptly responded to the report. As such, one of the suspects was captured while the other reportedly escaped through nearby canfields. A search party has been launched and investigations are continuing.

news

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friDAY, december 23, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Friday, December 23 – 13:30h-15:00h and Saturday, December 24 – 1:30 (early morning retraction) and 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, December 23 –12:45h-14:15h and Saturday, December 24 – 13:30h-15:00h.

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

WEATHER TODAY Light rain showers in the early morning hours followed by thunderstorms and heavy rain showers during the day. Light rain showers are expected again in the evening. Temperatures will range from 24 degrees Celsius to 28 degrees Celsius

Winds: East South-easterly to East North-easterly between 2.23 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 12:14h reaching a maximum height of 2.23 metres.

Low Tide: 05:40h and 18:16h reaching minimum heights of 1.02 metres and 1.00 metres respectively.

wednesday, december 21, 2016

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President Granger wants CVs of GECOM nominees ― Jagdeo agrees to provide as soon as possible

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s the public waited with bated breath for the announcement of a new Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), President David Granger explained that he needed to review the qualifications and skillsets of the nominees proposed by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo.

President Granger said he requested of the Opposition Leader that the Curriculum Vitae for the six persons he has nominated to fill the post of GECOM Chairman be provided to him so he can determine their suitability in accordance to the requirements outlined in the Constitution of Guyana.

“I replied to him right away, because although those six names might be known to the public, I could not be sure that their nominations were in accordance with the Constitution. I have asked him to let me have copies of the Curriculum Vitae of each one so that it can guide me in making my decision. So that is where we are now and I would say that the ball is in his court.

I would say let me have the résumé for the persons so we can go ahead with this process. It is very important that we have a Chairman as early as possible,” the President said.

Article 161 (2) states that “…the Chairman of the Elections Commission shall be a person who holds or who has held office as a Judge of a court having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in some part of the Commonwealth or a court having jurisdiction in appeals from any such court or who is qualified to be appointed as any such Judge, or any other fit and proper person, to be appointed by the President from a list of six persons, not un-

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

acceptable to the President, submitted by the Leader of the Opposition after meaningful consultation with the non-governmental political parties represented in the National Assembly.

Provided that if the Leader of the Opposition fails to submit a list as provided for, the President shall appoint a person who holds or has held office as a judge of a court having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in some part of the Commonwealth or a court having jurisdiction in appeals from any such court or who is qualified to be appointed as any such judge.”

The Constitution also outlines that the post of GECOM Chairman must be a full-time appointment and the holder must not engage in any form of employment.

Those nominated by the Opposition Leader are Executive Member of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) Ramesh Dookhoo, former PSC Chairman and Army Chief Norman Mc Lean, Chartered Accountant Christopher Ram, writer Rhyaan Shah, Professor James Rose and human rights and conflict resolution consultant Lawrence Latchmansingh.

Jagdeo said these individuals were identified following widespread consultations with civil society.

“I think they all are strong people and courageous people and people who have demonstrated that they are prepared to serve the country’s interest, not partisan interest, so that is my sense. I did not go into any great detail about their management styles or anything of that sort, but their names came forward from civil society,” he said.

Once there is no objection to the names, the Head of State will move ahead with the selection process.

If, however, the President believes the nominees are not suitable to occupy the post of GECOM Chairman, then the Opposition Leader will have to return to the drawing board.

Dookhoo is a business executive and former President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA).

He currently serves as President of the Caribbean Association of Industry and Commerce.

Mc Lean served as a member of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration. He was also Commissioner of Police and Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force during the Forbes Burnham Administration.

Ram has worked for

President David Granger

many years with the local Elections Observer Bureau and is a critic of both the past and present Governments. He was hired as a forensic auditor by the current Government.

Shah was the co-founder of the now defunct Guyana Indian Heritage Association (GIHA), which the then PPP Government had neutralised by creating the Indian Arrival Committee, now renamed the Indian Action Committee.

The former GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally, officially demitted office on November 30 after 15 years of holding the post.

Meanwhile, Jagdeo told online news agency Citizens Report that he has no problem in submitting the CVs of his nominees to President Granger, and assured that it would be done as soon as possible.

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friDAY, december 23, 2016

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

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

Editorial

Safety First

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t is the season of goodwill but it is also a season of greed. Christmas season can bring out the very best and, unfortunately, the very worst in people. Research has shown that during festive periods, crime wave goes up. This is because there is an increase in the movement of persons, increase in commercial and social activities and this makes it easy for criminals to commit crimes.

The majority of the people who celebrate this time of year have the very best of intentions. They exchange gifts with friends and families and show their charitable bent by donating to those less fortunate. Then there are those who use the activity of this time of year to prey on others.

These include shoplifters, the ones who break into parked cars and steal items, the ones who snatch purses and burglarise homes.

These are the modern-day equivalents of the Grinch.

At this time consumers, businesses and citizens should be extra-diligent at this time to protect themselves, their homes, their purchases and their neighbours.

By being extra watchful during shopping trips and by keeping purchases hidden in a vehicle trunk, individuals can be better assured of a safe shopping experience. By being alert to unusual vehicles and to strangers in your neighbourhood, you can notify Police so law enforcement can head off crimes before they happen.

In as much as citizenry depend on the Police Force for protection, there is also the need to take personal responsibility.

Last month, the Guyana Police Force announced a comprehensive security plan for the period between November 15, 2016, and January 15, 2017, which entailed strategies to be taken to counter any plans by criminal elements to take away the joy and peace of the Christmas season.

According to the Police, not only will officers in A Division (Georgetown-East Bank Demerara) be doing their best to prevent the possible rise in crime during this period, but steps will also be taken by the Traffic Department to monitor traffic flow, which is bound to build-up during this time. Roadblocks and stop-andsearch exercises also remain a feature and posture of the Police Force during this time.

During this Christmas season, ranks on patrol will be working shifts, beginning from as early as 07:00h, when they will be briefed and sent to their various posts. By noon, the other shift will be signed on, causing a onehour overlapping so as to cater for the increase in the number of persons who may be leaving their offices and other places of business to do shopping during their lunch break.

Added to this, the city is to be divided into five sectors for adequate policing, and officers assigned to those sectors will have a better hands-on approach in overseeing their respective spans of control. All sectors will be headed by assistant Police superintendents, who will be assisted by cadet officers or Police inspectors as availability dictates.

The force also assured that there would be an increase in foot and vehicle patrols around the city, particularly at hot spots such as banks, hotels, nightspots and other business places. These measures will extend to the city’s markets, which are usually bustling at this time. To complement these efforts, A Division has also been partnering with the City Constabulary to ensure that incidents of crime are minimised in the markets as well. Constables have also been helpful in apprehending persons who have been soliciting passengers. The division said too that they will be adjusting its arrangement so as to accommodate the high level of activities on December 22, 24, 29 and 31 These measures are welcome and although they are reassuring, members of the community should feel free to approach the Police for any form of assistance and also to provide vital information that would help prevent crime or lead to the arrest of criminals.

Everyone needs to watch out for the bad guys this Christmas season as we can be sure they are watching us.

A family interacting with Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo at the Windsor Forest Primary School

Books for everyone: Guyanese and visitors alike, young and old boarded the Logos Hope, the world's largest floating book ship. The vessel will be docked in Guyana until January 8, 2017 at the La Penitence Wharf

A Caribbean or Guyanese Christmas Dear Editor, The Caribbean Christmas is a unique experience that people look forward to with great expectation in the region or in the diaspora. In North America, the basket of memories left behind in the Caribbean is a powerful force influencing the enjoyment of the season. In North America, there is a Caribbean flavoured Christmas. Some miss the real Caribbean Christmas so much that they prefer to go "home" to be with relatives and relive the unique experience of the season. It brings so much joy to be home, with family and friends. And where not possible to make it home, a Caribbean celebration in North America with all the flavours and sounds of the Caribbean.

Although Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ around whom Christianity was built, nonChristians (Hindus and Muslims, for example) also celebrate the season with non-religious festivities. A Caribbean X-Mas has become a secular-like holiday celebrated by all groups of people.

Some of the secular activities associated with Christmas

are also extremely popular all over the world -- including baking, inviting neighbours and friends for a meal, gifting, feasting, exchanging cards, listening to music, watching the masquerade bands, going to the horse races or movies, visiting friends and relatives, and other forms of merrymaking.

Christmas offers the opportunity for renewal within the home and yard. A few weeks before Christmas, preparation for the holiday started. The home was remodelled. Old curtains were taken down. The house gets a thorough cleaning with some even re-painted. New curtains are also put up. And there may be new furniture and carpet. In some homes, polishing and varnishing of old furniture and the floor are done.

New cushions would be in place along with new spreads on the beds and new pillows to welcome the new season.

The lawns were immaculately kept and tree trunks white washed or painted. The yard was clean as a whistle. The house was completely redecorated. The Christmas tree was decorated and lit or a tropical tree on the front yard was

lit up. Status determined the extravagance of the tree, its lighting and decorations.

Homes engaged in unofficial competition for the best decorated/lit title.

Christmas in the Caribbean produces a special feeling that is associated with certain sounds (music - both religious and secular, western and Indian Bollywood, church bells, special radio programmes). The sounds in the air were laughter, horns, whistles, bells, popping toy guns, crying dolls, truck or car engines.

The odour was that of curry, stew and masala dishes or baked products, bread, cake, ginger beer, sorrel, mauby, pine drink, new or redone furniture and new curtains, bed spreads, etc). The looks were that of joy and friendliness (expressed in smiles, handshakes, hugs and pecks on the cheeks, etc). Expressions were those of Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. The aromatic scent wafts in the air and all the decorations and trimmings brighten up entire neighbourhoods.

People sent Christmas cards to each other and to relatives and friends around

the world. The imported cards reflected conditions in these countries – white snow, etc. But today, the pictures are more reflective of Caribbean realities of warm sunshine; Christmas can be associated with the tropics.

And it is noted that Australia and New Zealand, temperate countries, celebrate Christmas in the summer.

Christmas time was associated with phone contacts with loved ones around the world – North America and England really as most Caribbean nationals emigrated there. People called one another at Christmas time.

Most of the international calls were from America, Canada, the United Kingdom, because most Caribbean folks could not afford the cost (US$5 a minute in those days). But today many calls originate from the Caribbean because of reduced rates arising out of phone competition.

People looked forward for radio programmes that carried greetings recorded overseas or over the telephone and packaged as a programme aired on Christmas or Boxing Day. continued on page 5

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friDAY, december 23, 2016

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

Investigation Oil wealth is notorious for needed to corrupting its host nation determine why Police response was slow Dear Editor, A letter written by me was published in a certain section of the media in which I mentioned the slow or no response to a report of crime made at the Aurora Police Station; well from then to now I have been receiving many calls from persons who are also concerned about that situation.

But on the front page of that said edition, the headline news read, “Heavily armed 15 man gang storms Cambio Dealer’s home, 21 million in cash and jewelry taken. No Police response despite 40 minutes ordeal. Ex-cop among seven detained” on page 7 carried the full story. When I read that story I had to pause and read over some paragraphs, the second which tells you about the weapons, sledge hammers, the time it occurred, the distance the crime scene is away from the Springlands Police Station.

I reckon that the Springlands Police Station because of its location would be well staffed and manned by the most dedicated, disciplined, courageous and experienced ranks, including officers.

The amount of spent shells found at the scene would wake up the entire neighbourhood, not forgetting the sledge hammers used on that steel door seen in the photograph, in this day and age when every home has at least one cell phone, there are no doubt that call from many residents would be made to the Police Stations; both Springlands and new Amsterdam.

Seventy five minutes the time this robbery started, take out 40 minutes to commit the

crime to when the police arrive.

Thirty minutes was good enough time for them to travel miles and miles away.

The crime rate as it is, I am sure that most home would have at least one of the numbers of Springlands Police Station, a Station that I am certain would have at least four telephones.

I also know that there are some Commanders who are happy to let members of the community, especially businessmen, have their cell phone numbers, the reason which is to call them in time of need anytime during the day or night.

Every year the budget allocated for the Ministry of Home Affairs increases as expected, a lot of which is spent on communication and transportation, both land and water. The Public Security Minister even before he took up that portfolio was always concerned about the crime rate in the country. Talking to him, he would always suggest ways and action to be taken to have the rate reduced.

I am certain he will order an investigation to determine why the Police response was so poor to that robbery in question on that dreadful night, and while the findings may not be made public for obvious reasons, it would go a long, long way to prevent a re-occurrence.

It is unreasonable to expect the Police to solve every crime committed, it is reasonable to except they respond to each and every report in a timely manner.

Yours faithfully, Archie W Cordis

Dear Editor, With the public announcement in the local media that ExxonMobil is gearing up for oil production from Guyana’s first oil well by mid-2020, and that the company announced that it has awarded contracts to United States-based SBM offshore for a floating production, storage and offloading vessel, we trust Guyana’s economy and all Guyanese would directly benefit from this find when production starts.

Many of us locals had hoped and prayed that Guyana would become one of the first Third World nations that finds, extracts and sells oil on the world market that will allow its oil wealth to trickle down to the masses.

History has shown us that the trickle down is a rarity.

Oil wealth is notorious for corrupting its host nation. We do hope and wonder how our national administrators will conduct themselves if and when the oil begins to flow? This is based on the traits shown by some greedy persons over the past years.

And we do hope also that those in authority will revise and update our antiquated laws regarding foreign multinational corporations. With the present laws we have, we are going to expose ourselves to be "ripped off" by anyone, especially large multinational corporations. This is in light of our history of giving things away to foreigners.

Many locals may be very troubled by the differences in power and resources between ExxonMobil and Guyana as this

project moves forward. Guyana being at a distinct disadvantage.

For the moment things look grim for Guyana. It's hard up for cash and we fear agreements may be made that favour ExxonMobil. A powerful nation like Russia had to capitulate. Just imagine little Guyana.

Guyana versus ExxonMobil is like David and Goliath all over again, but the result will be different.

Our hopes are being lifted, but we must be realistic and be prepared for the fall. Remember bauxite. Look at Nigeria which oil is controlled by foreigners and large multinational corporations.

Yours faithfully, Rooplall Dudhnath

A Caribbean or ...

These were later replaced with telex messages and subsequently replaced by phone calls and now internet messages, and social media.

No Caribbean Christmas is without special music.

As in North America, Christmas carols are very popular - the same ones heard in North America although there are local ones as well. They are played on the air and the radio stations and recently on TV. Businesses advertise their Christmas goods and services early and as such radio and television stations started Christmas programming much sooner than in North America - around mid-November right after Diwali and Eid celebrations.

The radios also played special local folk music (including calypso and parang) that tend to vary from territory to territory. And the music of the masquerade band is evident almost everywhere. The Masquerade bands performing and playing their special brand of

music on special instruments, accompanied by colourful costumed characters dancing.

Steel bands also play all kinds of Christmas music. And in Trinidad, there were the moko jumbie dancers and parang (Spanish Christmas music with vocalists) bands in colourful costumes, singing, dancing.

Neighbourhoods were festooned with trimmings, balloons and other decorations. Christmas music is also performed in churches in regular worship services. Church members also perform as carol singers in public places to raise funds for the church. Some people went to church on Christmas morning. Others would have gone on Christmas Eve. The season is associated with giving gifts - to relatives, friends, business associates, children, and the needy. Children were told that their gifts were brought by Father Christmas and that they should hang socks. Santa brought gifts which were opened in the morning with squeals of delight.

from pAGE 4

Christmas is a time for feasts food, cakes and other goodies served with traditional homemade drinks. Relatives, friends and co-workers were invited for a hearty meal. One does not need an invitation to visit a family for lunch or dinner; it is traditional for families to expect uninvited visitors some of whom may be complete strangers. Among the main items served were black cake, ginger beer, imported apples and grapes, walnuts, dates, sherry wine, etc.

The holiday season extends over on Boxing Day. And the celebration continues with more of the same for Old Year and New Year.

The season was also a time for races and new movies and many people went to the racetrack or the cinemas to view hit movies from India or Hollywood.

In North America, there is much of the same for the holidays.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

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Foundation

“T

he gimmes” are all around us during the holiday season. It can be hard for children – and parents – to look beyond all of the product-driven hoopla and remember what the holidays are really about.

It’s not the gifts but what’s behind them that’s important – the spirit of giving. Help your children learn the fun of giving, and how rewarding it can be to look for, make, and wrap something special – or do something special – for people they care about and others who are in need.

Here are five ways to curb materialism in your children and reinforce the real reason for the season:

watching TV, listening to the radio, reading magazines, or shopping together. Ask thought-provoking questions, such as “Do you think that product really looks, tastes, or works the same way as it seems to in the ad?” * To limit exposure to TV commercials, choose public television stations, recorded programmes (without the ads), and children’s videos and DVDs. Teach your children that not every-

Teach children to question marketing messages

From the TV commercials during cartoons to the promos on the backs of cereal boxes, marketing messages target children of all ages. And to them, everything looks ideal, like something they simply have to have. It all sounds so appealing – often, so much better than it really is.

The ads children see around the holidays can help foster unrealistic expectations and lead to disappointment.

After imagining their “wish list” items all around them, it’s hard for reality to measure up when they actually open their gifts.

Of course, it’s nearly impossible to eliminate all exposure to marketing messages. You can certainly turn off the TV or at least limit your children’ watching time, but they’ll still see and hear ads for the latest gizmos and must-haves.

Explain, when your children ask for products they see advertised, that commercials and other ads are designed to make people want things they don’t necessarily need. And these ads are often meant to make us think that these products will make us happier somehow. Talking to children about what things are like in reality can help put things into perspective. * Ask what they think about the products they see advertised as you’re

your family loves the most. Then figure out how you can put more emphasis on them. If you love the tradition of lighting the menorah, get together as a group to make your own candles. If you enjoy the family trip to pick out a tree, make it an all-day event and head to a tree farm to choose your own. * Find out what the holidays mean to others. Have your children talk to a grandparent, parent, uncle, or aunt about how they spent the holidays growing up. Some holiday traditions that used to be strong – such as neighbourhood carolling – are all but lost today. Maybe you’d like to revive some of these as a way to share some holiday spirit with your family, friends, or community. * Build some new traditions. If you don’t have any family traditions, it’s never too late to start. Get together around activities that you all enjoy, such as cooking or decorating the tree.

Ask your children what they would enjoy doing every year and make an effort to do it. If you can’t all decide on one thing, make traditions out of several, so that everyone feels like part of the festivity

Teach children to give of themselves

thing they want can always be theirs.

The key is to want things in moderation and to fully appreciate what you’re given. Emphasise that the holidays are a special time to be with family and friends, and that a lot of love and thought is put into gift giving.

Focus on family traditions

* Traditions that focus on family or friends can be a great way to put meaning back into the holidays. Here are a couple of ideas: * Talk about which family traditions

Volunteerism, especially around the holidays, offers an ideal opportunity for families to have fun and feel closer to each other at the same time.

Community service helps to drive home the message that giving is much more than laying down cash for the hot gift of the season or scrambling around to buy mounds of presents.

Volunteerism can show children that giving your time, effort, and kindness is more rewarding than just expecting to receive lots of presents.

Also, if volunteering begins at an early age, it can become part of your children’ lives – something they just want to do. It can teach them: * that one person can make a difference. A wonderful, empowering message for children is that they are important enough to have an impact on

someone or something else. * the benefit of sacrifice. By giving up a toy to a less fortunate child, a child learns that sometimes it’s good to sacrifice. Cutting back on recreation time to help others reinforces that there are important things other than ourselves and our immediate needs. * tolerance. Working in community service can bring children and teens together with people of different back-

grounds, abilities, ethnicities, ages, and education and income levels. They’ll likely find that even the most diverse individuals can be united by common values. * to be even more appreciative of what they have. By helping others who aren’t as fortunate, children can better see all the remarkable things to be grateful for in their own lives. (Kids Health) TO BE CONTINUED

hen it comes to donating their own things, it’s common for children (especially younger ones) to put up a fuss. Children often grow attached to their possessions, so it’s natural for them to not want to part with them.

But even preschool-

where they’d like to see their playthings donated and why. Let children decide which toys stay and which ones go. When they can’t yet seem to part with a favoured item, try to respect their wishes but encourage them to look for other options to give.

Set a target. Make it fun by turning it into a game. For example, for every two toys they keep, see if they can give up one.

Reward them for their efforts. Offer plenty of acknowledgement, praise, and hugs when they agree to pass along some of their items.

ers are old enough to learn about generosity, compassion, and the importance of helping others. Donating their old toys is a great way to begin that lesson.

When talking about donating, keep your child’s age and maturity in mind.

Try something simple and straightforward, like: “Some people don’t have as much money as we do to buy things like toys. I know you used to like that doll, but you haven’t played with her in a really long time and you have lots of other dolls. Just think how happy this doll could make another little girl who doesn’t have one.”

After introducing the idea, ask your children to help with choosing which things to donate as a family. Here are some tips to get them involved: Ask for input. Ask

I f you’re giving away toys, furniture, or baby items, make sure they have all their parts, aren’t broken, and haven’t been recalled (for recall information, just type in the product name on the US Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website). Be sure that electronic toys actually work (some organizations won’t take toys without working batteries).

If you’re donating clothes, chuck the ones with stains, tears, or holes.

Enlisting your children in the process of donating – and choosing where to send items, whether it’s the local Goodwill or a homeless shelter – not only will help them experience the joy of giving, but might open their eyes (and yours, too!) to all the remarkable things to be grateful for in their own lives. (Kids Health)

I’d like to donate some of my children’ stuff (toys, clothes, etc) but they get upset whenever I even bring it up – even though it’s been ages since they’ve used any of it. How can I help them understand the importance of giving to those who are less fortunate, especially around the holidays – Anna.

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friDAY, december 23, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

Minister Scott apologises Guyana intensifies efforts to for “virtual impotence” attain FAA Category 1 status remark G

…comment “distasteful”— unions

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he sweeping and scathing generalisation that Junior Social Protection Minister Keith Scott made against the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) and the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) earlier this week came in for heavy condemnation from the two trade union umbrella bodies.

In a strongly-worded letter issued by FITUG and GTUC on Thursday, Minister Scott’s “virtual impotence” comment was deemed “distasteful and disturbing”.

But late Thursday afternoon, the Minister responded to the calls and retracted his earlier statements. In fact, the Government Information Agency (GINA) quoted the Minister acknowledging his “mistake”. “I made the mistake, that statement is regrettable; I’m solely responsible for the statement being made. I take full responsibility for saying so, and it takes nothing out of me to say to FITUG, GTUC, media and to the citizens of Guyana, that I’m sorry,” the Labour Minister was quoted as saying. It was during the deliberations of the Committee of Supply in Parliament on Tuesday, Opposition Members of Parliament Juan Edghill and Gillian BurtonPersaud requested that Scott justified Government’s allocation of $24 million to the Guyana National Cooperative

Minister with responsibility for labour, Keith Scott

Union Limited (GNCU), a body which falls under the Social Protection Ministry’s labour department.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) MPs had asked the Minister if the money could have been allocated to the GTUC and FITUG instead of GNCU. In response, Scott had quipped: “You would recognise the virtual impotence of those two bodies.”

This remark prompted a heated exchange between Opposition MPs and the Minister who has responsibility for labour.

On Thursday, FITUG and GTUC questioned Government’s level of consideration for workers’ rights.

“This most incredulous labelling by you of our organisations as “impotent” begs the question whether this is the level of regard that the

Government has for the labour movement and by extension the workers of Guyana,” the joint statement queried.

“We strongly view [it] as a most distasteful and disturbing remark, about our organisations,” FITUG and GTUC further expressed.

The union bodies pondered if the representative of the Government, Scott, inadvertently conveyed “a clandestinely held view” of the current Administration with respect to the trade union movement.

“The distasteful comment further opens speculation as to whether your utterance…has informed your Administration’s decision to dismantle the Ministry of Labour, which is relegated to a department, headed by you (Scott).”

FITUG and the GTUC added that they viewed the comment as an attack on workers across the country, and called on the Minister to either provide clarification to his earlier comment or issue an “unequivocal apology” to the unions.

Speaking directly to the Minister, the unions reminded that it was the very workforce that was responsible for Scott being in his position.

“It may be important to remind you, they (workers) pay your salary from their toil and sweat, and in many instances, are left with what is not adequate.”

uyana is aiming for higher skies and hoping to finally achieve full compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) within the next year, according to Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Egbert Field.

ICAO is a specialised agency of the United Nations that codifies the principles and techniques of international air navigation. It fosters the planning and development of international air transport to ensure the safe and orderly aviation growth of all its member states.

In order to achieve compliance with the requirements of ICAO, a Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP) is periodically conducted to assess the country’s level of effective implementation of recommendations.

Field said Guyana has improved in its ratings, scoring 64.66 per cent up from 44.24 per cent. However, media reports indicate that Guyana had scored 70 per cent in December 2015.

Nonetheless, the fairly new Director General said the GCAA will be moving forward by establishing a robust oversight system, equipped with qualified individuals.

He noted that Guyana fell in the audit due to the limited expertise in the sector but said moves are afoot to recruit competent per-

Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Director General Egbert Field and Acting Director of Air and Navigation Services, Rickford Samaroo

sons.

He said the Authority will be sourcing a few experienced inspectors from the Caribbean who would become mentors and instructors for “those coming in so they can understand or appreciate the on-the-jobtraining.”

Field noted too that Guyana was moving in the right direction and will continue to train its staff and acquire additional skills within the Authority.

He expressed hopes that Guyana, within the next year, will possess the requisite documentation, regulation and staff to achieve a Category One Status: “But it depends on their audit and when they have the time to come in but we are moving full steam ahead.”

Category One means that air carriers from the assessed country may initiate or continue service to the United States in a normal manner and take part in reciprocal code-share arrangements with US carriers.

For Guyana it would mean that Guyanese opera-

tors would be able to fly direct to the US, among other benefits.

Full coverage

Meanwhile, the GCAA has embarked on a massive initiative to have full coverage of the country’s airspace.

Acting Director of Air and Navigation Services Rickford Samaroo explained that an automatic dependent surveillance broadcast (ADSB) system, which is ICAO-approved, was purchased for US$120,000 and installed at the Timehri Air Traffic Control Station.

This ADSB system broadcasts the aircraft’s position and intent automatically, and the ground station will receive that feed and display it.

Next year, more systems will be purchased and installed at the other stations in the country, namely Port Kaituma, Kamarang, Kaieteur and Annai.

Samaroo said it will take several months of testing before the entire system becomes operationalized.

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friDAY, december 23, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

IN THE COURTS

Linden woman gets 3 years for cocaine trafficking

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Linden woman was fined and sentenced on Wednesday, after she was found guilty of trafficking cocaine.

Esther Jules, 55, appeared at the Linden Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Clive Nurse and was sentenced to three years in prison, in addition to being fined $18,000.

Facts presented to the court indicate that on May 9, 2016,

Jules who resides at Amelia's Ward, Mackenzie, was found to be in possession of 6 grammes of cocaine, for the purpose of trafficking.

The court heard that upon seeing the Police, Jules dropped the illicit drug.

In his ruling, Magistrate Nurse indicated that the court found that the evidence tendered was credible, before handing down the sentence.

Linden youth ordered to attend Security Strengthening programme

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agistrate Clive Nurse on Wednesday ordered a Linden youth who pleaded guilty to break and enter and larceny, to attend a Security Strengthening Programme, organised by the Ministry of Public Security.

Michael Samuels, 18, made his second appearance at the Linden Magistrate’s Court where his probation report was presented.

According to prosecution facts, on Monday, December 5, he broke and entered the

home of Ron Innis at West Watooka, Wismar, Linden, and stole an Xbox 360 CD valued $20,000, a screw driver set valued $15,000 and $21,000 in cash.

The court heard that Innis returned home to discover the articles missing and Samuels was later discovered with the items in his possession. Innis told the court that while the articles were recovered, the cash was not.

Previously, when asked by Magistrate Nurse whether he wished to have

the matter tried at the Linden Magistrate’s Court or the High Court, Samuels chose the former. He told Magistrate Nurse that he has no parents since they died when he was younger.

In a string of conflicting reports, he noted that he has been living by himself since he was 12, then changed his story, noting that he is living with his sister. A probation report was then ordered by Magistrate Nurse.

When the case was called again on Wednesday,

Samuels admitted that he made a mistake and stated that he did not know why he committed the offence.

Following the probation report, Magistrate Nurse made the decision to give him an opportunity, noting that he is to attend the programme for three years, beginning January 2017.

Extending a strict warning, Magistrate Nurse told the defendant that failure to complete the programme will carry a default sentence of nine months imprisonment.

Community service, fine for Anna Regina vendor

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aipaul Ramsingh, 22, a clothes vendor of Anna Regina Market, Essequibo Coast, will have to perform 40 hours of community service, commencing on December 23, 2016, after he pleaded guilty to having 1 gram of cannabis in his possession.

During his first court appearance before magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Suddie Magistrate's Court,

Ramsingh admitted that he smokes the substance occasionally.

At that point Scarce told him that smoking is a more dangerous offense with stricter penalties and suggested that he immediately discontinue the practise. Scarce also called on the mother of Ramsingh to monitor his behaviour while he is at home.

Ramsingh told

Magistrate Scarce that he obtained the substance from a friend.

The Police said that on December 18, 2016, they were on a patrol when they saw him acting in a suspicious manner.

A search was conducted on his person where the substance was found. He was told of the offense and subsequently arrested.

He told the court he

would stop and he was sorry.

It was his first conviction, as such Scarce was lenient but warned him not to appear before him again for any similar offense.

He will have to do community service three hours daily at the Anna Regina Police Station until the hours are completed.

He was also fined $3000.

The Opposition…

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…and good governance

part from starting to fix their own organisational challenges at their just-concluded party Congress, the PPP showed why an Opposition is such an important part of a parliamentary democratic system. And the key word is “system”: as in a structure with a number of components that work together to perform the raison d’être of the structure. In a democracy, the Opposition’s supposed to point out the Government’s missteps – and suggest better alternatives. All for the good of the people.

And this brings your Eyewitness to the resolutions passed by the PPP Congress. The first one that caught your Eyewitness’ eye (and fancy!) was the one on the Venezuelan controversy over our Essequibo border. The PPP announced in very unequivocal terms they supported the move of outgoing UN Secretary General Ban to pronounce definitively on the “Good Officer” process that’s been tried since 1989. Unless it can settle the matter in one year – THAT’S IT!!

Venezuela will have to get off its high horse and submit to the World Court for a “juridical settlement” on its controversy. Which the PNC-led coalition government has asked for having inherited that line from the PPP. The subtext of the resolution is – whatever problems the Government and Opposition may have domestically, they’re as one when it comes to them “furriners”. Not a blade of grass!! Bravo to the PPP!!

Another resolution was on the functioning of that new Ministry sprung on the Guyanese people by the PNC-led coalition without any warning – the Ministry of Social Cohesion. For over a year, citizens wanted to know exactly what the Ministry was supposed to do to bring about the blessed state its name implied – “social cohesion”. Well… now they know! Run by old-time PNC stalwart (and “Party Whip”) Amna Ally, the Ministry has assiduously worked to have the country “cohere” under the PNC’s banner!!!

Whip it good!!

The PPP’s resolution asks all those international organisations – who’ve fallen for the slick move because of the name – to take note. Not only are they supporting naked partisan, political mobilisation, but they’re undermining the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) that’s supposed to bring about social cohesion through positive activities – as enumerated by its 24 functions in Article 212D of the Constitution. And backed by sanctions.

Similarly, another resolution highlights the international community’s refusal to speak out on the GECOM CEO’s foot dragging on the PPP’s elections petition. Which utterly vitiates their fulsome words on “democracy”.

And finally, the last resolution calls out the IDB, which closes its eyes to the blatant cronyism practised by the Cabinet pursuant to their traducing of the procurement laws and bodies.

In funding those crony-contracts, the IDB funds corruption!

…and GECOM

After their trenchant criticisms of the outgoing (outgone?) Chairman of GECOM, folks might be forgiven for thinking the PPP wanted a “toothless poodle” – as they themselves dubbed an old PNC incumbent – in the position. But lo and behold! Of the six names they proposed – as the Opposition are mandated to – for the President to select the new Chair, there were a number of surprises.

Not least being Chris Ram, who’s been one of the PPP’s most trenchant critics over the past decade. You could’ve knocked your wide-eyed Eyewitness over with a feather when he espied that name!! He’s quite impressed and is quite hopeful about this incipient new leadership in the PPP. If they’re willing to accept the professionalism of a critic and overlook his barbs, that reveals real political growth!

The other surprise was Rhyaan Shah, who’s been quite trenchant on occasions in her appraisal of the PPP’s actions towards their core constituency.

Is it the Season of Goodwill, or is a wind of change blowing in the PPP?

…and Budget

But as we saw with the Budget that was passed WITHOUT A SINGLE CHANGE following the Opposition’s representation of the society’s sentiments on several issues, it’s the voters who have to take note.

To see clearly in 2020!

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

news

14-year commemoration held for former President Desmond Hoyte

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he 14th Death Anniversary commemoration service for former President of Guyana and Leader of the People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R), Hugh Desmond Hoyte (March 9, 1929 – December 22, 2002), was held on Thursday morning.

The usual commemoration service was held at the Seven Ponds, Botanical Gardens, and saw in attendance among others President David Granger who paid his respects by laying a wreath.

He was joined by several PNC/R members as well as family and friends of the former President.

Addressing the gathering, Attorney General and Chairman of PNC, Basil Williams, remarked that the late President was a “dynamic” individual, who led the transformative revolution in Guyana.

“He was iconoclastic and he was really the purveyor of a revolution in a way, in Guyana; an economic revolution,” the party Chairman stated. Meanwhile, PNCR executive Carl Greenidge delivered a presentation, reflecting on the life of the former President. He recalled various encounters with the former President and spoke of his demeanour as an individual.

“Here is a man who has achieved a great deal in his

President David Granger pays respect to former President Hugh Desmond Hoyte, SC, on the 14th anniversary of his death

life; in terms of Guyana’s constitutional history, its political history; he of course features and will continue to be featured as a major icon but he was a man with many dimensions, many sides,” he remarked. Greenidge pointed out that the former President is often remembered for his role in overseeing the country’s economic recovery and his commitment to a strong legal framework, among a host of other achievements.

“So we have a lot to be very proud of in looking at Hugh Desmond Hoyte... I hope the experience and reflection on his life would provide us with inspiration to face the challenges which we undoubtedly face now and those others that we will face in the future, and to face them with the same sort of confidence,” he remarked.

Hoyte served as President

from 1985 to 1992 and before that he held several Ministerial posts between 1969 and 1984 including Home Affairs, Finance, Works and Communications, and Economic Development.

In 1984, he became First Vice President and Prime Minister.

During his Presidency, he initiated far-reaching electoral and economic reforms, which strengthened the bases of the democratic culture of Guyana, promoted market-oriented policies and stimulated economic growth. Furthermore, as a Minister of Government, he held on several occasions, responsibility for African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) affairs under the Lome Convention and was the ACP spokesman on sugar for 1981 to 1983. His portfolio also included Caribbean Community (Caricom) Affairs.

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Traffic ranks remanded for narcotics trafficking T

wo Traffic officers attached to ‘B’ Division have been remanded to prison for trafficking in narcotics.

The two constables, Bharrat Chatterpaul 28, of Lot 45 Princeton, Corriverton, and Delroy Fraser, 24, of Belladrum, West Coast Berbice, appeared before Magistrate Charlyn Artiga at the Whim Magistrate’s Court on Thursday and were denied bail.

The two are accused of having in their possession, 5 kilos of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking on Monday, December 19, in New Amsterdam.

The drug was allegedly found in a car bearing registration plate HC 3179, belonging to Chatterpaul.

Both pleaded not guilty to the offence.

Attorney Chardra Sohan, mitigating for bail on behalf of Chatterpaul told the court that the matter will have to be heard in the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court and Magistrate Alex More is currently on leave and will not be back until February. He said it will be against his client’s constitutional rights to have him sit in prison until then.

Sohan also argued that Chatterpaul has a medical condition. A medical certificate signed by Doctor Vinestri

The two officers covered their faces as they were being led away

by Detective Sergeant Lawrence Thomas

Khirodar indicated that he has been suffering from bronchial asthma for the past ten months. Sohan said if Chatterpaul is incarcerated he will suffer as it will be a health risk.

Sohan further told the court that Chatteraul was not a flight risk; and his father is willing to lodge his transport worth $28 million for Chatterpaul to be placed on bail. He pleaded with the court to grant bail to the Police officer, saying that if he is remanded he will be placed with persons whom he may have dealt with during his eight years serving as a Police officer.

Fraser who has been serving on the force since May this year told the court that he is being represented by Attorney Kin Kyte-John who

was not in court.

Sohan argued that Chatterpaul is claiming that he was on an assignment when his car was broken into and the alleged drug was found. The Lawyer told the court that Chatterpaul was given a parcel by Deputy Commander Kevin Adonis to take to Officer Leitch at the Whim Police Station and on his return, his car was already opened and the drug was taken out.

However Police prosecutor Phillip Sherriff told the court that his facts differ.

The Magistrate said the matter will be sent to the Chief Magistrate on December 30, for it to be reassigned to another Magistrate since Magistrate Moore is currently on leave.

TURN TO PAGE 16

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News

Govt to sign billions in loans next year

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uyana will borrow billions of dollars next year to assist with developmental works, Finance Minister Winston Jordan disclosed on Monday.

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Guyana’s largest lending institution, has approved four major loans to be signed early next year.

Minister Jordan announced that these loans amount to US$40 million altogether.

The first loan amounting to US$9 million will go towards enhancing national quality infrastructure for diversification and trade promotion, and will support the establishment of facilities for meteorology testing, lab equipment for the Bureau of Standards, as well as drafting a national export and investment promotion strategy.

The second loan, totalling US$8 million, will support the improvement of maternal child health, particularly with the rehabilitation of the CC Nicholson Hospital and the procurement equipment for health facilities at CC Nicholson as well as the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan

The third loan is to the tune of US$15 million and covers a sustainable agriculture development project, focusing on the construction and rehabilitation of centres in Regions 9 and 10. This loan will also cater for the undertaking of an agricultural census and pilot project in meat processing.

The fourth loan totals US$8 million and provides support for criminal justice system, specifically relating to alternative sentences intervention, strengthening of probation services, training

of judges and magistrates and law reform.

The Finance Minister also disclosed that Government is also benefitting from technical assistance valued US$442,000 for the institutional strengthening of the country’s national statistics system which is aimed at assisting the Bureau of Statistics to undertake two critical data collection: Consumer Price Index and the rate of unemployment across the country.

He explained that unemployment studies were never done in Guyana, that the statistics quoted throughout the years are just proxies based on Georgetown.

The IDB also approved technical assistance for US$745,000 to modernise the valuation division in Guyana.

The technical assistances seek to improve management in real property tax assessment, which according to the Minister, is significantly outdated.

Additionally, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has also approved a loan this month for $8 million; which also has a grant component, and will address hinterland environmental sustainable agriculture development in Guyana and will support agriculture development activities in Regions 1 and 9.

Also, under the 11th European Development Fund (EDF) €34 million has been allocated for sea and river defence programmes.

The Finance Minister disclosed too that the European Union Investment Bank, in an engagement with Guyana after 20 years, is reviewing three proposals submitted by the Government. These proposals are for private sector development, infrastructural development, and the generating of clean and renewable energy.

The Minister also highlighted that Government will enter a project with the World Bank aimed at preparing Guyana for an electronic national payment system.

In addition, he noted that the Guyana Government is engaging the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) to ensure the organisation follows through with some promises it made when Guyana became a member in May. Guyana will also receive US$194 million from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), some of which will be allotted to see if it is feasible to re-establish a development bank here.

The Minister also reminded of the concessionary loan agreement with the Caricom Development Fund (CDF) for a number of agriculture-related interventions.

For a just state

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he philosopher Immanuel Kant succinctly posed the dilemma of organising a just state, two centuries ago, in these terms: “The problem of organising a state, however hard it may seem, can be solved, even for a race of devils, if only they are intelligent. The problem is, given a multitude of rational beings requiring universal laws for their preservation, but each of them is sincerely inclined to exempt himself from them, to establish a Constitution in such a way, although their private intentions conflict, they check each other, with the result that their public conduct is the same as if they had no such intentions.”

In Guyana there exist great suspicions in the people as to the motives of those who propose “solutions” to our national problems. Throughout our history institutions have been tinkered with, purportedly for the “good” of the people, but invariably it was later seen to have benefited either one person, or one group. Guyanese are understandably concerned about the “smartmen” who jockey for advantage on behalf of themselves or their group. Any initiative, or set of initiatives, that are offered to address Guyana’s political crisis will have to engender broad acceptance across the political, ethnic and other divisions in the people and especially amongst the politicians.

Kant proposed that the solution to the inevitable conflicts in organised human societies, lay in the design of institutions that should ensure the persons behaving in accordance with its rules, are behaving justly and morally. He proposed that institutions, as with all normative behaviour, would have to satisfy the “categorical imperative”, which in one popular formulation states: act in accordance to rules that you would wish applied to everyone as if they were universal laws.

Most commentators who followed him agreed with his stricture that institutions constituting a state must be organised in accordance with the principle of justice, but his criterion of the categorical imperative, proved nettlesome. John Rawls, the most influential of modern liberal political philosophers, came up with another formulation to guide the formation of social institutions nearly two centuries later, in 1971. It had the great virtue of simplicity.

In the opening line of his first section in his magnum opus A Theory of Justice, Rawls boldly declared that the principle of “justice” is the standard that would generate the broad acceptability for the establishment of any institution necessary to implement any initiative for enduring stability: “Justice is the first virtue of social institutions, as truth is of systems of thought.”

Recognising that Guyana does not even reach Rawls’ definition of a society as “a cooperative venture for mutual advantage, it is typically marked by a conflict as well as by an identity of interests.” his definition of “justice” is yet very pertinent to our effort to construct a democratic state in Guyana: “…a way of assigning rights and duties in the basic institutions of society and they define the appropriate distribution of the benefits and burdens of social cooperation.”

In Guyana we all have to appreciate that the existence of the state itself is for the furtherance of the societal good – the public interest. Ultimately we believe that all Guyanese are looking to be culturally authentic, politically secure and economically sound. In the furtherance of these “public goods”, the people have to promulgate a constitution through which the government directs the state through policies and programmes in consonance with the prime directives of the Constitution.

In modern democracies, under the liberal paradigm, equality of treatment and equality before the law of the citizens stands at the very top of the imperatives. We have proposed that under a federalist state institutions will be created to implement the policies of Ethnic Impact Statements, multiculturalism, federal form of government, Government of National Reconciliation, Catalytic Economic State, Affirmative Action etc, in the fulfilment of the national goals. However, because each individual citizen or group of citizens are situated differently (according to specific criteria) governmental policies and programmes will inevitably have a different impact on different citizens. The task of the Government is to ensure that their differential treatment is not arbitrary and capricious and irrational – and that they further some societal good.

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friday, december 23, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

Far-flung businesses face challenges in accessing finance −SBB …as millions in loans, grants approved for sector in 2016

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hile the Small Business Bureau has done significant work in helping small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs transform and develop their operations, they have experienced difficulties in reaching out to those in outlying regions.

Many small businesses in Guyana continue to benefit tremendously from the support and services provided by the SBB, which facilitated the approval of 56 loans valued at some US$1 million this year.

This reflects a major increase from those loans granted in the previous years which stood at 24 and 12 in 2015 and 2014, respectively.

These loans are provided by the SBB’s partners, Republic Bank Limited and the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) at significantly low interest rates with the maximum being 6 per cent.

Credit Guarantee Fund Manager of SBB, Gillian Edwards, explained that many loans were centred in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), noting that access to financial lending institutions is a huge problem for those operating in other areas

Gillian Edwards

an end in December 2017.

“Based on the time remaining for this extension, a minimum of 160 is expected,” she stated, noting that the SBB is constrained in reaching out to those remote areas.

She explained that approvals are based on the submission of business plans which are reviewed, initially evaluated based on site visits and submissions and sanctioned thereafter by the Grant Committee.

Further, the SBB provides training for business owners in varying areas.

Approximately 2500 persons have been trained to date at a total cost of G$179 million.

Training services com-

Valerie Grant

across the country.

However, in those regions where active financial institutions are not available, the SBB directs its grant programme there.

“If you can’t access a financial institution, the opportunity is opened in terms of the grant component,” Edwards explained during the SBB’s yearend press conference at Island Café on Brickdam, Georgetown.

Under the grant scheme, 72 grants were distributed for 2016. Grants given in previous years are 136 in 2015 and 25 in 2014, making the overall value of total grants approved at US$333,232 (G$68.8 million).

Edwards explained that based on demand received during 2015 for grants, consideration was given to expand the programme to accommodate 500 approvals instead of the initial 300.

However, she lamented that owing to lack of capacity, the SBB will be unable to approve grants for 500 businesses as the programme comes to

menced in 2013 with three providers and 9 additional trainers were signed in July 2016, bringing the total partner training institutions to 12. The demand for this service has increased over the years, with 1353 persons undergoing training in 2016 while only 141 were trained in 2013, 828 in 2014 and 187 in 2015.

Edwards highlighted that the work of SBB has impacted the lives of over 735 persons.

“A total of 440 jobs and 295 jobs have been sustained and/or created by the credit guarantee and grant interventions respectively to date,” she stated.

The SBB is considered a one-stop shop by many young business owners or aspiring entrepreneurs who are uncertain of the procedures in expanding and/or developing their business.

Some additional support services offered by the Bureau are assistance with documents required for loan financing, referrals to other

agencies, support for launch of products and festivals, market exposure, among others.

The SBB was created with the aim of providing incentive regimes and support programmes for small businesses.

2017 plans

Chairperson of SBB, Valerie Grant, underscored the importance of entrepreneurship in Guyana: “Entrepreneurship is one of the most important drivers of job creation and economic growth, and is crucial for the development of a vibrant formal small- and medium-sized (SME) business sector. It enhances productivity growth and can also help find practical business solutions to social and environmental challenges.”

Grant noted that many entrepreneurs in Guyana can be classified as “necessity entrepreneurs”, where they are pushed into entrepreneurship because they have no other alternatives for work.

This situation she highlighted is reflective of the scarcity of decent wage-labour opportunities in the economy.

The SBB chairperson lamented however that despite the importance of entrepreneurship, there does not exist a national entrepreneurship strategy or any direct policy to support entrepreneurship.

In this regard, she announced that the Bureau will aim to optimise the regulation environment for entrepreneurs, enhance entrepreneurship education and skills development, facilitate technology exchange and innovation, improve access to finance, and promote awareness and networking.

Other plans for 2017 include the implementation of youth friendly programme, capacity building and enhanced staff complement, greater public awareness, celebrating the success of entrepreneurs through a small business awards, hosting an entrepreneurship summit, etc.

The SBB is also hoping to partner with more banks next year, and has already commenced the process of re-engaging with IPED and Scotia Bank.

friday, december 23, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

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News

GGMC, EPA lead clean-up Guyanese, visitors flock to campaign in Port Kaituma see Logos Hope Book Ship

Two women engrossed in a book A sign being erected in Port Kaituma reminding residents to adhere to the litter regulations

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everal residents and businesses in Port Kaituma, Region One (Barima-Waini), were fined for failing to adhere to litter regulations as the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) partnered to host a clean-up campaign in the community.

The campaign culminated with an awareness session on December 8, 2016.

In addition to the fines and citations against some persons, residents and business owners also learned how to properly utilise the waste management site in the area.

The awareness session took place at the Port Kaituma Community Centre and commenced with opening remarks by Dr Latchmin Punalall - Environmental Awareness Coordinator, Ministry of Natural Resources; Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) Chairperson Margaret Lambert; Darcy Walrond, Senior Environmental Officer II GGMC; and Andrea Bazilio - Senior Regional Environmental and Health Officer. The meeting was chaired by Quincy Thom,

Senior Environmental Officer II GGMC. Carl Foo, a Litter Warden from the EPA’s Litter Prevention Unit presented on the Litter Act and its regulations. Participants were made aware about charges stipulated under the Act for both individuals and businesses. The presentation was interactive with questions asked by residents and business owners alike.

Among the main outcomes of the meeting, were the decisions that there will be no dumping at the entrance of the dump site; that garbage will be dumped systematically from the farthest end at the back coming forward; that residents and business owners will be held liable under the Litter Act for garbage or waste not properly disposed in the community; and that the NDC will maintain the dumpsite in collaboration with the Regional office after the initial clean-up.

Further, it was recommended that the renewal of business licenses at Port Kaituma be conditional, upon the satisfaction of the RDC and NDC that the applicant has maintained sanitary conditions at their place of business. It was concluded too that the pick-up

and disposal of garbage at the site should be more organised.

The clean-up campaign commenced on December 5 and lasted four days. This area was chosen due to the existing garbage situation, which resulted from indiscriminate dumping in areas such as: the main market area, the roadways, community centre and along the Kaituma River and banks.

There is a specific dumping site for garbage at Port Kaituma but it was in urgent need of rehabilitation.

The first phase of this exercise included rehabilitation of the existing garbage site. The EPA spearheaded the second phase of this exercise, which involved enlightening business owners and residents of Port Kaituma about the Litter Act and Regulations.

The third and final phase of this exercise included a massive clean-up of the Port Kaituma community and also the erection of ‘Do not litter’ signs around the community.

Additionally, 60 garbage bins along with ‘Do not litter’ signs were handed over to the RDC by GGMC in collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources.

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ig smiles were stretched across the faces of children as they feasted their eyes on the wide range of children books and toys on Thursday when Logos Hope, the world’s largest floating book ship, opened its doors to the public.

The ship was crammed with children, teens and adults mere minutes after it officially opened its doors.

Soon after, the length of the lines increased and the books on the shelves were decreasing. The people were

The vessel offers exclusive onboard events for people of all ages, in addition to its array of quality, affordable books.

According to the Media Relations Officer, Annika Lee, there are about 5000 different titles abroad, along with international crew members from about 60 countries. She stated that most of the books are donation from different publishing companies who agree with their vision to educate and bring help to countries, whether it is promoting

The Logos Hope

not distracted by Christmas shopping in any of the commercial hubs—after all they waited seven years for the vessel to return to Guyana.

peace, creating HIV/AIDS awareness or carrying out construction and community development projects.

The ship and its mem-

bers offer help to those affected by poverty, regardless of their background, religion or creed.

According to Lee, the ship will be producing a live theatrical performance of the CS Lewis classic The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. It has been adapted for the stage by Jimmy Hendricks and directed by Tim Whitson.

Tickets are presently on sale at the Giftland Mall and on the ship.

There will also be an international culture festival on December 28, 2016 and on January 4, 2017.

Logos Hope is operated by GBA Ships e.V an international charitable organisation registered in Germany. Since 1970 the organisation has welcomed over 45 million visitors up the gangways in over 150 countries and territories around the world. The ship usually visits 12 countries every year, offering quality books at affordable prices.

The ship is opened to the public at the La Penitence Wharf until January 8, 2017.

Entrance fee is $100 per person however adults 65 and over and children under 12 are free.

8 Guyanese Air Traffic Controllers return to boost aviation sector

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ight Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) air traffic trainee controllers returned from a three-month training programme hosted at the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority Institute (JCAAI) in Kingston, Jamaica.

They will soon begin actual control of live air traffic under supervision as they continue on a rigorous training programme to become certified air traffic controllers.

This aspect of their local training will last for a minimum of three months and thereafter recommendations will be made based on their performance for the trainees to be issued with their licence to prac-

The batch of Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Air Traffic Controller trainees who returned from their training in Jamaica

tice as full-time Air Traffic Controllers.

GCAA Director General Egbert Field, addressing media operatives at a press

conference Thursday at the GCAA’s Kingston office, said the officers performed exceptionally well. “You have really done us proud. I

am very happy. People like you, family members like you are who I am striving to get, who I am striving to help us move this Authority

onward and upward.”

The Director General was loud in his praise for Guyanese student Devindra Kissoon, who topped his class. “I wish to personally congratulate you for the good work you have done, and look forward to your full participation in this family (GCAA) as we move this Authority to better and higher skies,” Field said.

GCAA Training Officer Courtney Frank and Acting Director of Air and Navigation Services Rickford Samaroo also congratulated the students on their exceptional performance.

The eight students: Kissoon, Yogeshwar Bodyadhar, Conny Wills,

Joann Lall, David Sundar, Tyrone Persaud, Karen Budhoo, and Safina Latchman were selected from a group of 14.

During an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA), Valedictorian Kissoon said: “It was a rigorous training – well composed; our exposure with the Civil Aviation over the years would have given us the tools and expertise to excel over there… we expected it to be hard, it was, but as a group, we pulled through.”

Meanwhile, another batch of 35 students commenced training on December 5.

16 news

friDAY, december 23, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

Final leg of IDB GPL agreement to commence in 2017

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he Guyana Power and Light (GPL) is seeking to have the last part of its agreement with the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) commence by January next year.

The loss reduction component said to be the largest part of the programme, has already passed the bidding process and is now awaiting signing and execution.

GPL’s Chief Executive

tractors) on the ground in the first quarter of 2017,” Homer explained.

The acting CEO further explained that GPL will be using its consolidated fund along with funding from the PUUP to effectively target loss reduction.

“Prior to the granting of the funding for the PUUP programme, the IDB has funded other studies with respect to losses within the

GPL's Head Office

Officer (ag), Renford Homer, speaking to journalists at a press conference earlier this week, said the loss reduction process will be at the top of the company’s agenda in the new year. The third component of the Power Utility Upgrade Programme (PUUP) set to begin in 2017, deals with addressing loss reduction and improving electricity supply distribution.

“There has been a preferred bidder that was approved by Cabinet and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)….so it’s just a matter of signing and consummating that contract, so we do expect to see them (con-

GPL system. The design of the programme is such that it is meant to deliver at the end of the programme in 2020, a sustained reduction of losses of five per cent so we expect to see losses reduced to approximately 23.8 per cent in 2020.”

The IDB had back in 2014, approved loans totalling US$37.6 million along with non-reimbursable investment financing from the European Union to help boost the efficiency and reliability of Guyana’s power system.

IDB had said the project would be done through electricity loss reduction measures, improvements in the operational capabilities, and

strengthening the management and corporate performance of GPL. “Reducing overall electricity losses can improve GPL’s financial performance, while alleviating the Government’s fiscal commitments with regards to the energy sector,” the IDB stated.

“Guyana is expecting a significant increase in electricity consumption during the next decade as a result of the growth of its residential and commercial sectors, and the expected return of large customers to the national power grid,” an IDB statement added.

According the IDB, GPL is now facing various challenges in trying to provide additional electricity on an ‘efficient and reliable basis’, which include high levels of electricity losses. “As Guyana’s energy demand increases, the distribution infrastructure will experience greater stresses, and in turn, this will challenge GPL’s management and its ability to manage electricity supply,” it said.

The programme seeks to rehabilitate about 830 kilometres of GPL’s distribution network by implementing an “integral approach to tackle overall losses while strengthening GPL’s management and technical capabilities.”

Under the IDB’s Grant Leverage Mechanism, the Guyana PUUP will be the first to be co-financed with IDB resources and those to be provided on a non-reimbursable basis by the EU’s Caribbean Investment Facility.

Ministry of the Presidency hosts Christmas carolling event

Holiday shopping blues

Essequibo vendors lament slow business

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Empty aisles at the Anna Regina Market

ith just two days to go before Christmas, vendors at various markets in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) are lamenting the fact that sales are very slow, and according to many, it could be the worst they have experienced in years. A walk around the Anna Regina Market area revealed that there were more window shoppers than buyers.

Interviews conducted with several vendors revealed that business was very slow and many persons are only buying what they need for the season, as opposed to buying extra.

Many businesses reported a significant drop in sales as compared to last year.

One fruit vendor, when asked to describe the flow, said that things are "very slow”, however, the vendor was optimistic that the last

two days before Christmas will see a turnaround.

Clothes vendor Roy Singh said he noticed that persons are buying what they really need as opposed to extra: "This is really depressing, no sales, you sit all day, one, two person coming, they not buying anything much. The market is like a ghost area: just sellers, no shoppers."

Another vendor related related that the situation is frightening and is driving fear into those who made investments in the season.

As to the reason for the situation, many blamed the decline in the rice industry, which they believe has really contributed to a drop in the region's economy.

Meanwhile a stop at the various supermarkets on the Coast revealed that there has been a high influx of persons shopping.

Most of their baskets were filled with groceries as opposed to confectionaries or goodies.

A drive along the various moneygrams and Western Union locations revealed long lines.

"This season is very black for me, I am here to collect some money my sister send from the US, my husband made huge investment in his rice land and cannot get his money yet, so I had to ask my relatives to send me a raise" a consumer related. Like her there were many others in the lines to uplift money sent by overseas relatives.

$1000 entrance fee to Giftland Mall on today, Christmas Eve

T Minister of State, Joseph Harmon tried his hand at conducting the band

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resident David Granger, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon and staff of the Ministry of the Presidency, on Thursday enjoyed an exhilarating carolling session performed by the Guyana Police Force band and choir. This activity is a holiday tradition at the Ministry.

The Head of State in brief remarks following the performance, thanked the band, which will be celebrating its 60th anniversary next year, and said that it has proven

that not only is it deserving of the Medal of Service (MS) it received, but that it is has also improved significantly over the years.

“At this time of the year, several things come together, the food and the drinks and the short working hours, the shopping, but most of all it’s the music that tell us something special is happening that does not happen at any other time of the year,” he said.

Expressing his best wishes to the staff, President Granger reminded that Christmas is not unique to

any particular group or religion. Instead it is a time when people of all backgrounds come together to celebrate in fellowship and friendship, the Ministry of Presidency stated in a release.

The band played yuletide classics like: O Holy Night, Hark the Herald, Silent Night, Jingle Bells, along with some more modern renditions.

President Granger, Prime Minister Nagamootoo and Minister Harmon even took turns to conduct the band, much to the delight of staff.

he Giftland Mall, Pattensen Greater, Georgetown, will be a loiter-free zone, come December 23 and 24 after it was announced on Wednesday, that a fee of $1000 will be charged for entry.

This is according to the company’s CEO, Roy Beepat who said that loiterers will not be welcomed for

the busy Christmas season.

Beepat noted however, that the $1000 is redeemable at any store in the shopping arena after making a purchase, and this is just a measure to ensure persons are going to the Mall to shop and not to lime.

It is a norm at the Mall for teenagers to enter and spend a considerable time

doing nothing as well as being noise nuisances.

Additionally, Beepat noted that security has been pumped with an additional 40 guards on duty per shift, so as to ensure the safety of customers.

Meanwhile, another 170 parking spaces have been added to the Mall’s parking lot for the Christmas season.

Traffic ranks remanded...

Detective Sergeant Lawrence Thomas who swore to the evidence then handcuffed the two policemen and led them away.

As he was being escorted in handcuffs, Chatterpaul was verbally abusive to the media present.

Meanwhile, it had been reported that one of the ranks who was on official business on West Coast

Berbice and was at the time driving a minibus belonging to the Force, was seen stopping a car.

At the time the rank who owns a car was the only person on the bus.

After the car was stopped, the driver of the car came out of the vehicle carrying a parcel in his hand and boarded the bus. Reports are that the bus then pulled off

FROM PAGE 9

and stopped a short distance away. The car driver then came out without the parcel.

It was also reported that the rank telephoned another and asked him to take his car to Vryman’s Ervin, New Amsterdam.

When the bus arrived it is alleged that the parcel was transferred to the car and both vehicles went back to Central Police Station.

Rikki Jai

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, december 23, 2016

Mahendra Ramkellawan

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Terry G

ll roads will lead to the Tuschen Community Centre Ground, East Bank Essequibo on Boxing Day for Fire Fest’s Appreciation Day Concert. All plans are moving ahead of schedule for the hosting of the event regardless of the rain.

The event will be epic with several high-class performances from renowned singers. The concert is a way of giving back to fans that have supported Fire Fest Production over the year whether at “Clash of the Titans”, Guyana Night concerts or any other event.

Last year, the Leonora stadium was packed to capacity for the 2015 edition of the event and it expected that this year will be no different. The line-up for the show will see several international, regional and local artistes.

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

The official emcee for the event is WR Reaz.

Tickets for the event cost $1500 a n d a r e available at regGranny Ivelaw ular ticketing locations. This is one event you do not Chiney Man want to miss.

Cool Boyz

Roger Hinds

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verything is in place for the second annual El Dorado Awards billed for December 29 at the Marriott Hotel, Kingston.

The event is organised by The Caribbean Voice and supported by Save Abee Foundation, Team MMR and Galaxy 21 Communications.

The El Dorado Awards provides a space to recognise the efforts of individuals and organisations, both local and overseas-based, who have made a difference and positively impact the lives of Guyanese, especially the powerless and disadvantaged, while tackling the social issues that negatively affect lives.

The event comprises a cocktail reception, a cultural interlude and the presentation of awards.

This year’s honourees comprise individuals and organisations drawn from throughout Guyana and the Diaspora, and include Sattaur Gafoor, Sham Tilak, Dennis Charran, Godfrey Scott, Shabakie Fernandes, Allison Butters-Grant, Jean LaRose, Diane McTurk, the Anna Catherina Islamic Complex, SASOD, Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association, Guyana Cultural Association, Monique’s Helping Hands, Krishndat Persaud, The Makushi Research Unit, Enterprise Youth Development Association, Imam Bacchus and Sons and Shivnarine Chanderpaul.

Among those participating in the cultural interlude are iconic singing star Terry Gajraj; former Chutney King, Roger Hinds; 2016 Chutney King Bunty Singh, Prince Krish; the versatile Satish Udairam and the nightingale, Celia Samaroo.

In addition, there will be tassa and African drummers, and Indian and African dancers and the teenage WR Reaz singing sensation, Haresh Singh.

Popular TV and radio host from New York City, Shanaz Hussain of Shanaz Musical Sensation fame, will co-host the event.

Terry Gajraj

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guyanatimesgy.com

friday, december 23, 2016

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ast Christmas, Give Another Chance Foundation distributed over 650 gifts to children in Regions One, Three, Four and Five. This Christmas, it has decided that bringing the children together would be an even better gesture.

After celebrating with the children on the island of Wakenaam where over 250 gifts were distributed in the Christmas Village and more excitingly, a 40foot Christmas tree lit up, it was time to bring the joys of the festive season to other areas, including Georgetown.

The Demerara Cricket Club was festive on December 19 when the Foundation turned the location into a fun park and Christmas village. Santa spread the Christmas love with over 300 gifts being distributed while there were fun games, storytelling, great food and other goodies, face painting and much more.

“It is always great to see children from different communities blend together in one love,” acting President of the Foundation, Melissa “Vanilla” Roberts noted.

She stated that the spirit of Christmas was just one of the areas on which the Foundation focuses.

“We have a big focus on children and their education because part of our mandate is to reduce the amount of children that may fail.”

In keeping with that mandate, the Foundation distributed school materials to children in specific areas and, most recently, donated one laptop each to the top students of those areas.

“We also work with the family of miners in Baramita, Matthews Ridge and Port Kaituma to improve their livelihood,” Roberts added.

For 2017, the Foundation is hoping to partner with other organisations that deal with children who suffer from social issues, especially in depressed communities.

“We will also be doing a lot of fundraisers to build the financial standings of the Foundation as we strive to reduce the number of young people who may be heading in the direction of failure,” she added. The executive of the Foundation comprises mostly young entrepreneurs who believe that by spreading love and assisting those in need, they can change lives.

In the true spirit of the season they are grateful to their volunteers, sponsors and donors who have contributed generously to bring joy and Christmas cheer at least 1000 children in Guyana. They take this opportunity to extend best wishes for a happy Christmas and a productive New Year.

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ith Christmas less than 48 hours away, it’s that time of the year when parties are in full swing, but what is a party without “Hookah”. This Christmas, treat yourself to a night out at the Mist Hookah Lounge located at Lot 77 D Light Street, Alberttown, Georgetown.

For some of the wildest parties and hangouts, patrons can enjoy the best cocktails all night long with the most soothing music.

The lounge is open seven days a week.

The extra-special night spot was opened earlier in the year as the first of its kind and has attracted party-goers from all spheres of society. Since its opening, it has hosted several private parties and seen a huge influx of visitors.

Around this time, there are a lot of overseas-based Guyanese returning home to spend the holidays, and they are encouraged to visit the Mist Hookah Lounge.

The atmosphere is pleasant, with the best in customer service.

The facility is owned and run by a young Guyanese who saw a Hookah Lounge as an essential part of partying in Guyana.

Just remember, the Mist Hookah Lounge is opened from 15:00h to 02:00h.

Theresa Mc Andrew and Chandradai Rampersaud collecting the keys to their brand new Toyota Rush cars which they won in the Ariel Double Rush to Christmas Promotion

P Miss World 2016, Puerto Rico’s Stephanie Del Valle

uerto Rico’s Stephanie Del Valle was crowned Miss World 2016 on Sunday, winning the top prize in the 66th edition of the pageant held this year in Washington DC, United States.

The 19-year-old law and communications student said it was an “honour and a great responsibility” to represent her country.

The first runner-up was Yaritza Miguelina Reyes Ramirez of the Dominican Republic, and the second runner-up, Natasha Mannuela from Indonesia.

The top five finalists also included Catriona Elisa Gray from the Philippines (4th place) and Evelyn Njambi Thungu of Kenya. Placing among the top 11 semi-finalists were the delegates from the United States, Brazil, South Korea, Belgium, China and Mongolia. Quarter-finalists were the representatives from Hungary, India, Australia, Slovakia, France, Cook Islands, Ghana, Japan and Thailand.

The Continental Queens of Beauty were Puerto Rico (Miss Caribbean); Indonesia (Miss Asia); Kenya (Miss Africa); USA (Miss Americas) and Australia (Miss Oceania).

One hundred and seventeen beauties from around the world participated in the Miss World beauty pageant, held at National Harbour near Washington, DC. Although Miss Guyana Nuriyyih Gerrard did not place in the top 25, she expressed thanks to her Guyanese well-wishers and her sponsors, who have made the journey a memorable one.

The quarter-finalists from Hungary, India, Australia, Slovakia, France, Cook Islands, Ghana, Japan and Thailand

friDAY, december 23, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

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ast Boxing Day, Hits and Jams Entertainment hosted one of the most intriguing concept parties titled “Dubai”, which saw the atmosphere transformed into that Middle Eastern country with matching music and fashion.

This year, however, the leading entertainment group will take patrons to “Europe” for an experience of a lifetime. Patrons who come out to party on Boxing Night at Palm Court will feel as if they are in “Paris”.

The night will comprise fashion, music and décor. There will also be a replica of the Eiffel Tower. This will definitely be a red-carpet affair and it is one that will set the bar for the season.

Patrons can party all night with the most versatile DJs and selectors in the entertainment business. These include the hyped Kerwin Bollers, Gully Ras, Energy and Selector Diamond from the BOOM FM and Fusion Sound System. The flight to Paris boards at 21:00h and airfare is affordable.

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oca fans can expect one heck of a party on the night before the night before Christmas at the 704 Lounge, Lamaha and Albert Streets, Georgetown at “Soca in Christmas”.

This event will be the most hyped event for the Christmas season, and is promoted

by Gully Ras and 704 in collaboration with ANSA McAL under the Heineken Beer Brand. The event will definitely put patrons in the mood for the festive season.

Performing live at the event will be Trinidad’s Soca Sensation Shal Marshall, who is no stranger to Guyana and its night life. Also adding some flavour to the night will be DJ XBASS, DJ Energy, DJ Country Boi, DJ Tallest, DJ Gully Ras and the versatile Selector Diamond. With that line-up, patrons are expected to have a frolicking time. It gets even better with a Heineken Beer special all night long. Admission to the event is easy.

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lamour, cocktails, martinis shaken not stirred, cigars, the champagne, the flirts, the thrills, and the featured beer of the night “Heineken” will all be part of the most intriguing countdown on New Year’s Eve. This December 31, surround yourself with the lavishness and splendour of a 007 lifestyle for one of Georgetown’s premier New Year’s Eve black tie events titled “007 License to Party”. It will be a Bond Evening in Palm Court’s Kokomo Room.

Relive the flair and sophistication of James Bond, as Palm Court transforms into a “Hollywood” James Bond theme, where all will be treated as celebrities and given a red-carpet welcome with professional photographers, exquisite décor, a magnificent premium bar, delicious buffet dinner and glorious desserts.

There will be live performances by guest artiste, Jamaican dancehall sensation Baby Cham and Guyanese songstress Poonam Singh. Guests will also be entertained by celebrity DJs and Selectors, including DJ Carl, DJ Ryan, DJ Anisah, DJ Shizzle and Selector Diamond.

Without a doubt, they will be playing a solid chart of selected music from across the ages and vibes that will make patrons hit the dance floor as we ring in the New Year w i t h style and glamour.

VIP tickets for the event cost $25,000 which includes entry t o floors, dinner, premium bar, live performance and breakfast. General admission will cost $5000 and will afford patrons entry to the lower floor, live performance and breakfast.

In addition, there will be Heineken Bucket Specials all night. The event is sponsored by Heineken.

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friday, DECember 23, 2016

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

Bravo’s Renegades top Russell’s Y Thunder

Eagles soar to 1-0 win over Kwakwani Strikers ― Winners Connection halt Botafago to advance to semi-finals onnick Simon got the deciding goal of the game as Eagles United gained their first win, a 1-0 victory against Kwakwani Strikers as champions Federal Winners Connection halted previously unbeaten Botafago 2-0 when play continued on Wednesday night in the Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA) GT Beer Christmas football championship at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground.

Winners Connection completed their round of four matches, winning three and losing one for nine points

Dwayne Bravo loses his bat and his bails

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fter losing all their home games last season, Melbourne Renegades began the 201617 Big Bash League with a clinical victory at Docklands stadium, defending 179 with ease to leave Sydney Thunder’s title defence in deep trouble after two heavy losses in three nights.

The Renegades’ foundation was laid by captain Aaron Finch, who clubbed 63 off 37 balls at the top of the order.

His knock was defined by clean hitting, on a ground where he averages 56 in T20s, and it proved to be the leading contribution on the night, highlighting the size of the hole he will leave in the side when national duty calls in January.

No shot was better than Finch’s lofted strike off Clint McKay, described by Ricky Ponting as “absolutely magnificent” on commentary.

Later, he muscled Fawad

Ahmed for consecutive sixes over extra cover. He holed out off the next ball, but his job was done.

The notoriously slow and low Docklands surface encouraged Thunder to go in with three spinners, two of whom got their side back after a profligate start.

Fawad Ahmed and Chris Green bowled their first spells in tandem and allowed only 25 runs in four overs.

But they were let down by the third cog Arjun Nair.

O n debut, his o n l y over contained a slew of half trackers and was taken for 14 Thunder won’t have long to lick their wounds, with two more fixtures over the next week. While they can’t bring back the top four that had such a hand in last year’s title win -

SCOREBOARD Melbourne Renegades innings MS Harris c Cummins b Russell 19 AJ Finch* c sub (K White) b Fawad Ahmed 63 CL White lbw b Green 1 CJ Ferguson c Russell b Cummins 38 DJ Bravo b McKay 24 TLW Cooper c Green b Russell 7 PM Nevill† not out 5 CP Tremain run out (Russell) 0 SP Narine not out 11 Extras (b-5, lb-2, w-4) 11 Total (7 wickets; 20 overs) 179 Did not bat: NJ Rimmington, GB Hogg Fall of wickets 1-42 (Harris, 5.1 ov), 2-48 (White, 6.1 ov), 3-93 (Finch, 11.3 ov), 4-133 (Bravo, 16.1 ov), 5-148 (Cooper, 17.3 ov), 6-163 (Ferguson, 18.5 ov), 7-167 (Tremain, 19.1 ov) Bowling: PJ Cummins 4-0-26-1 (w-2), AD Russell 4-0-42-2 (w1), CJ McKay 4-0-40-1 (w-1), CJ Green 3-0-21-1,Fawad Ahmed 4-0-29-1, AJ Nair 1-0-14-0 Sydney Thunder innings

KR Patterson c Tremain b Cooper 0 RJ Gibson c & b Hogg 39 EJG Morgan c Harris b Tremain 2 30 BJ Rohrer* b Hogg AD Russell b Narine 2 PJ Cummins c Harris b Bravo 36 AJ Nair c Finch b Narine 2 CJ Green c Finch b Bravo 3 JR Doran† run out (Harris/†Nevill/Bravo) 3 CJ McKay run out (Finch) 0 Fawad Ahmed not out 0 Extras (b-6, lb-4, w-3) 13 Total (all out; 19.1 overs) 130 Fall of wickets 1-0 (Patterson, 0.1 ov), 2-5 (Morgan, 1.5 ov), 3-75 (Gibson, 12.1 ov), 4-77 (Rohrer, 12.5 ov), 5-93 (Russell, 15.2 ov), 6-95 (Nair, 15.5 ov), 7-105 (Green, 16.5 ov), 8-130 (Doran, 18.4 ov), 9-130 (Cummins, 18.6 ov), 10-130 (McKay, 19.1 ov) Bowling:TLW Cooper 2-0-81, CP Tremain 4-0-21-1 (w-2), NJ Rimmington 1.1-0-10-0,SP Narine 4-0-32-2,DJ Bravo 4-027-2 (w-1), GB Hogg 4-0-22-2

Shane Watson, however, will be back soon from injury - they can take heart from Pat Cummins’ performance across disciplines so far. He bowled with serious pace, hitting 150kph in his first spell, to finish as the most frugal of the Thunder bowlers. In the field, he was all aggression. His two dives while minding the deep midwicket boundary may have left hearts in mouths given his injury history, but they underlined his athleticism.

Later, with the bat, Cummins showed his bighitting antics from the tournament opener were no fluke. His 37 off 23 balls, which included four sixes in four overs, gave the 23,015 people in attendance something to remember.

As for the Renegades, they will be back at the Docklands on December 29 when they face Scorchers, before their crosstown blockbuster against the Stars at the MCG on New Year’s Day. If they can get through those fixtures unscathed, it may really be time to believe the hype.(Cricinfo)

Eagles scorer Yonnick Simon

as the play began on the left wing as Gittens clipped the ball to the last upright to score in the 12th minute.

Winners Connection scorers Kevin Sears and Rawle “Boney” Gittens

as Botafago and Hi Stars now have to wait for their final clash, against different opponents next Tuesday to decide who will join Winners Connection in the final four playoffs.

In playing the first game on a rain soaked MSC ground veteran striker Rawle ‘Boney’ Gittens was able to complete a fine play started by a head shot to him from Kester Randolph

Botagao was unable to get the equalizer before the first half ended as Jamal Haynes was brought down by the Winner captain Marlon ‘Scarry’ Maxius and Jashawn Haynes first was unable to score and successive rebounds were muffed

by Akeem Aaron, first with a shot and then a header.

However, after the first half came to an end the Winners Connection came back strong and through

Shawn Gittens the ball was played in to the middle where Kevin Sears rose to head home goal number two in the 56th minute. From then the champions maintained their control, and came away victorious and into the final four.

Then it was a slippery outfield and the play never really was that entertaining, but for the near misses and slides. The robustly built Yonnick Simon was able to uncork a powerful shot from on top the 18 yards box and score the lone goal of the game for the Eagles United side which came away winners after that 53rd minute strike.

In Group A currently has Silver Shattas, with one game remaining are on nine points from three wins and no losses, Kwakwani Strikers ended on six points from two wins and two loses, Eagles United are on four points from three matches, Milerock are on three points from three losses and Net Rockers are on one point from one draw and two losses.

Group B is headed by federal Winner Connection with nine points from the wins and one loss, Hi Stars and Botafago each have six points from two wins and one loss and one game to play, Amelia’s Ward \ Panthers have three points from one win and two loses and Blueberry Hill arte still to win after three losses.

Saturday night, the penultimate round robin play is set for the tournament venue the MSC and in the first game at 18:00h Blueberry Hill and Amelia’s Ward Panthers faceoff and the other at 20:00h is between Milerock and Net Rockers.

Hutson: “2016, a real struggle for AAG”

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he year 2016 is almost done and dusted and President of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), Aubrey Hutson is hopeful that the New Year will usher in some changes since there were some struggles for the administration during the challenging period undr review.

When asked about the recap of the year 2016, Hutson opined that “the executives are not functioning at the highest level and I think too much of the administration of the sport rest on my shoulders.”

The AAG President equated the situation to that of the International body, the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) where he gave the example of the Sebastian Coe. “I think Lord Sebastian Coe, the President of the IAAF had similar problems and hence after being in office for less than a year has decided to throw the entire

AAG President Hutson

Aubrey

constitution out and bring in a new one because he understands elected officers do not necessarily function. So in his new dispensation he is looking for more appointed officers of the IAAF” Hutson stated.

As it relates to the local context, Hutson believes that in order for us as an association to move forward certain changes need to be brought about to have the organization take a new structural framework.

“I think the AAG needs to move more in that direction where instead of having a general secretary we have a Chief Executive Officer, instead of a Treasurer we have a Finance Manager, those persons are more accountable. When you make those positions elected positions, someone may be elected into the position but does not have the necessary qualifications and prerequisites to function in that role.” Hutson expressed.

However, the AAG president does not believe that this is a problem exclusive to the AAG, but rather a national problem saying “It’s a national sports problem throughout Guyana you will find that, you hear people talk about an elected treasurer who can’t prepare a financial statement that affects the smooth operation of the AAG.” The struggle of the Association had been further dealt a permanent blow with

the passing of Shanomae Blackmore. While it has been a lengthy period, the effects of her passing are still being felt by the association.

“The passing of Shanomae Blackmore, even though it may have been a while back I don’t think we have totally recovered from it because she would have gone with a wealth of knowledge and a knowledge of things we need to do on a timely basis. We have tried with quite a few persons to fill her shoes but we were not a success because she was key in guiding presidents in how to function in terms of responsibility to the IAAF, so a lot of it rest on the shoulder of the president because at the end of the day it stops with me and I have been trying my utmost to keep the association afloat.”

Meanwhile, at the end of it all Hutson rounded up the year with optimism saying that “it has been a struggle but I think come 2017, it’s going to be a lot better.”

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West Indies allrounder Carlos Brathwaite’s match-defining 34 not out off 10 balls in the World T20 final was named the T20 Performance of the Year

W

est Indies allrounder Carlos Brathwaite’s match-defining 34 not out off 10 balls in the World T20 final against England earlier this year was named the T20 Performance of the Year. The allrounder, who took over as the T20 captain in August, sealed a second World T20 title for West Indies by slamming four successive sixes to end a chase of 156 in Kolkata.

India offspinner R Ashwin has claimed the top ICC awards for 2015-16, having been named the ICC Cricketer of the Year and the Test Cricketer of the Year.

Ashwin is the third Indian, after Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid, to win the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for Cricketer of the Year.

Ashwin, currently the top-ranked Test bowler, had picked up 48 wickets and scored 336 runs in eight Tests during the ICC’s voting period from September 2015 to 2016, in addition to 27 wickets in 19 T20Is. In 2016 alone, he picked up 72 wickets in 12 Tests and became the second-fastest bowler to 200 wickets during the Kanpur match against New Zealand.

Ashwin said he was overwhelmed by the recognition.

“It’s a bit overwhelming and it is yet to sink in completely. At the same time I was expecting to land one but to end up with two awards was extremely special,” he said.

“To be bracketed alongside Rahul Dravid and Sachin

Tendulkar is indeed a matter of great pride.

“I want to dedicate this award to my family who have been a pillar of strength. And not to forget all my teammates and coach Anil Kumble who push me to give my best with their support and guidance.”

The offspinner rated his 7 for 83 in the Antigua Test against West Indies as the performance he enjoyed the most. That haul helped India to an inningsand-92-run win, and he finished the series as the leading wicket-taker with 17 dismissals. Another performance Ashwin rated highly was his knock of 118 in the first innings in St Lucia, which helped rescue India from 126 for 5 to 353. They went on to win the match by 237 runs. It was also Ashwin’s fourth Test hundred.

South Africa wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock was named ODI Player of the Year. De Kock has been South Africa’s leading run-getter in ODIs since September last year, and tallied 793 runs in 16 ODIs during the voting period. Overall, since September 2015, he has scored 1175 runs in 22 matches in the format, with five centuries and three fifties, ahead of senior batsmen like Faf du Plessis, AB de Villiers and Hashim Amla.

Bangladesh seamer Mustafizur Rahman was named Emerging Cricketer of the Year, having notched

up impressive performances since his international debut in April 2015. The first Bangladesh cricketer to win an annual ICC award, Mustafizur picked up eight ODI wickets and 19 T20I wickets in the voting period.

Afghanistan’s flamboyant wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Shahzad won the Associate and Affiliate Cricketer of the Year. He was the leading run-getter in the category, with 699 runs in 16 ODIs, 533 runs in 17 T20Is and 301 runs in the Intercontinental Cup matches.

Earlier, New Zealand’s Suzie Bates had bagged the Women’s ODI and T20I Player-of-the-Year awards, while Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq was given the Spirit of Cricket award.

Marais Erasmus won the David Shepherd Trophy for the Best Umpire.

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22

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friday, december 23, 2016

HERO Caribbean Premier League 2017

Simmons snapped up by St Kitts & Nevis Patriots

T

he St. Kitts & Nevis (SKN) Patriots announced today that former West Indies Head Coach, Phil Simmons, will become the new head coach of the franchise for the 2017 Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season.

“We are happy to announce that Phil Simmons is the new head coach of

the SKN Patriots”, said Co-Owner & Principal, Uday Nayak. “We expect that Phil’s experience and local knowledge will help the Patriots achieve improved performances in our 2017 Hero CPL campaign, and will bring the ultimate success that our fans and sponsors deserve”.

The Patriots owner de- s c r i b e d Simmons as “the right coaching choice at this very crucial time in the development of our Franchise.”

Commenting on his new role, Coach Simmons said, “I am delighted to take up the role as Head Coach of the SKN Patriots. I would like to thank the owners and management for offering me this exciting op-

portunity to lead the squad. I am aware of the immediate challenges we are facing and I will do all possible to e n sure

that we achieve i m proved results.”

The new Patriots coach expressed his delight that the franchise had just last week signed star batsman Chris Gayle, “I am very pleased with the recent signing of Gayle. This is a major boost for me coming in as the new coach and I look forward to working closely with Chris to bring

The St Kitts and Nevis Patriots had a good start to their 2016 campaign but tapered off and struggled to find the winning formula

the desired success to the St. Kitts & Nevis franchise.”

Phil Simmons is himself a former explosive West Indies batting allrounder. He retired from being a professional player in 2002, before embarking on a successful coaching career. Simmons is former

coach of the Ireland national cricket team from 2007 to 2015, a period of significant improvement for Ireland’s ranking in world cricket. Simmons is best known for coaching the West Indies team to victory in the ICC World T20 in India earlier this year.

Trinidadian Phil

Simmons replaces South African Eric Simmons for the Patriots who finished at the bottom of the points table in 2016 with just two wins from the 10 matches played. In their debut season in 2015, the Patriots also finished at the bottom of the six-team championship. (CPLT20)

New Era/Cell Smart Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal Tournament…

MSC hosts clash of the titans tonight S emifinals action kick off tonight when the final four teams standing in the 3rd annual New Era Cell Smart Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal Tournament take to the hard court at the McKenzie Sports Club from 20:00h with one thing on their minds, victory.

It will be interesting to see who fans will get behind when two of the crowd-favourite teams go head to head in the first semifinal of the night.

In action in the curtain raiser will see Hustlers take on Good Fellas with a place in the championship game at stake.

Debutants, Good Fellas is having a string of good performances in the tournament this season and have been lead by last season’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), Clarence “Shark” Huggins. In the previous edition of the annual tournament, “Shark” turned out for defending champions, Magic Stars.

Huggins, through his nimble

Hard Knocks Empire

Good Fellas

footwork and play making ability has seen his team come from behind and dispose of customs United in the quarter final and Humming Birds earlier in the tournament.

However, “Shark” has not had to do all the work by himself as his team is one of the more organized in the competition with the likes of Deshawn J o s e p h and Mark McLean who have both made considerable contributions to see their team make it

this far.

On the other hand, the flair and fashion in which Hustlers go about their business on the field is one which draws the attention of the crowd as they are entertained with not only good ball handling but intense skills displaying by some bizarre ball tactics.

Hustlers have made massive strides in the competition, most notably, sending West Side Ballers packing. In the lime light for the boys in black are Jermaine “Brown Boy” Scotland who is the leading goal scorer of the team so far as well as Deon “Crab” Carter, Anthony Sancho, Kang, Kwame and others who are ready to make it happen at all costs.

In the second semi final contest, new blood Team Empire will face their most c h a l lenge when they

Defending champions Magic Stars

Hustlers

f a c e the dechampi-

fending ons, Magic stars.

Empire has had a good run to the tournament so far and with the likes of some of the better players in Linden it will be a treat to see who will come out on top.

Empire boasts the likes of Kevin Beaton, Curt Johnson, Trenton Lashley and Benny Neble, Calvin Drakes, and 13-year-old Jermaine Maison who will all be itching to put their name in the record books.

Meanwhile, the defending champs will not want to take Empire easily and would like to continue their winning ways. With players such as Steffon Tappin, captain Jermain Grandison, Kevin Sears and others it will be interesting to see who emerges into the finals.

The champions will walk away with the first prize of $400,000 along with trophies, while the second place team will get $150,000 and a trophy. The third place team will get $75,000 and trophy and the fourth team will get a trophy.

Other prizes are on offer for the MVP, Best goalkeeper and Best young player.

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, december 23, 2016

23

Stag Nations Cup KO Football

Yassin Uitvlugt, Pouderoyen squeeze into final 8 honoured to be re-elected as U GOA President ― berates criticisms of Kaieteur News journalists

GOA President KA Juman Yassin

O

n Wednesday evening at the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) headquarters, Liliendaal, the association held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) after which Kalam A. Juman Yassin was given tenure in charge of the sporting body for four more years.

The former Chief Magistrate, who had 20 years of service under his belt in the same capacity, will now have another four years at the helm of the body that is in charge of the country’s Olympic sports.

Yassin in speaking to media operatives after winning the presidency unopposed voiced his elation but quickly had a change of mood when he spoke of the criticisms he faced from a certain section of the media.

“I feel very honoured and pleased that I have been elected unopposed by the associations; the criticism that I faced from two of the journalists at the news were unjustified, they were personal, they were unjustified, they were disrespectful,” the President stated.

He added, “At the end of the day, all the associations know what has been happening they know a lot of the criticisms were unjustified and as a result of that you saw the decision tonight [Wednesday].”

The re-elected President was quizzed on if he believes his tenure was successful considering, the country would not have won an Olympic medal since boxer Michael Paris delivered bronze at the 1980 Moscow Games.

Yassin responded saying,” It still does not justify, you have to look at the circumstances, the funding and one also needs to look to see so many other countries have not won anything, at the last Olympics they were 205 countries, I think only 68 won medals, so they need to look at everything.”

In recognition of the medal drought, the GOA head says that he is buoyed by the support given to sports by the Government as reflection in the 2017 budget.

“The Minister and the Government are now seeing that more funding is needed for sports and the budget for the Sport Ministry has almost doubled; the Director of Sport made a statement that with sports, you have to invest, those are right statements and I’m hoping that we will work together with the Government,” Yassin posited.

The president will have support staff in the likes of Vice-Presidents, Karen Pilgrim, Charles Corbin, Godfrey Munroe; Hector Edwards as Secretary General, Garfield Wiltshire as Treasurer, Dion Nurse as Assistant Secretary and Tricia Fietkou, who was elected in the newly installed position of Assistant Treasurer.

According to the President, the GOA executive will be having a press conference in the coming days to update the public on the plans of the association.

itvlugt Warriors were stretched to the hilt but prevailed via kicks from the penalty mark as Northern Rangers were out of range on the night handing the former a place in the final eight and a date with Santos on Christmas night.

It was day 5 action of the STAG Nations Cup knock-out football championship that took place on Wednesday night last at the Leonora Track and Field Facility Football Field.

Uitvlugt defeated City side Northern Rangers 3-0 on kicks from the penalty mark after the two sides battled to a 1-1 stalemate in regulation and extra time.

The win completed a clean sweep for the West

to come from behind against a tough Northern Rangers unit which took the lead in the 29th minute compliments of a Stephon Reynolds goal that silenced the West Side supporters.

Uitvlugt, the #1 team of the West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) looked a very scratchy unit and played very timid against a side that’s down the pecking order in the city.

But as the match matured, Uitvlugt got into their stride and responded in like manner just before the half Pouderoyen’s super duo, Esan Nelson (right) and Kayode King time whistle.

A David Blake goal was the neutraliser for Uitvlugt first for the winners; Lerone missed the target all togethwhich gave the host side the Jacobs hit the post for their er.

Pouderoyen abided their momentum going into the second while the next two shots taken by Carlsie time against the nippy break.

End to end exchang- Carrol and regulation time Mahaica Determinators and despite falling behind after the side from the East Coast scored in the 35th minute through a well take goal by Eon Abel, gradually wrested the initiative as they carved out a memorable win.

Three minutes after falling behind, a long range shot taken by Kiode King just over the half way line, it was a huge surprise to all that the ball ended in the back of the nets between the legs of custodian Royden Ramsay.

The game was sealed Pouderoyen’s way before the first half ended, thanks to a 42nd minute strike from Esan Nelson. The win sets up a Christmas Day quarUitvlugt’s fantastic four: from right, Shawn Brower, Keon Duke, David Blake and Carlsie Carrol ter final clash between Pouderoyen and Western Tigers. scorer, David Blake sailed side teams on the night fol- es marked the second 45 Meanwhile, the final two into the back of the nets to lowing Pouderoyen’s come minutes but no goals were round-of-16 matches will be from behind 2-1 win over scored. The added extra 15 secure victory for Uitvlugt.

Northern Rangers never contested today at the Grove East Demerara’s Mahaica minutes after regulation Determinators which squan- time had elapsed did not found the desired range and Playfield when home team dered a number of chances separate the sides. Kicks floored all their shots, two of Grove Hi Tech entertain early in the piece and was from the penalty mark were which were saved by goal- New Amsterdam United in made to pay for that in the the next available option keeper Shawn Brower from the main event, the curtain kicks taken by Nigel Denny raiser featuring Ann’s Grove end. and it was all Uitvlugt.

Uitvlugt also was made Keon Duke scored the and Tefon Daly. Gavin Bobb and Den Amstel.

Digicel running with KMTC Boxing Day tradition

T

he 44th Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club (KMTC) Boxing Day Race Meet is just four days away and telecommunications giant, Digicel has pledged its support to keep the tradition alive.

Turfites will be in for a treat at Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club at Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne, Berbice in the Digicel sponsored event for horses classified E and Lower which carries a top purse of $500,000 and a trophy.

The pledge was confirmed when Digicel’s Events and Sponsorship Manager Louanna Abrams presented the sponsorship cheque on Thursday Class

to President of the KMTC, retired Justice Cecil Kennard.

The highly anticipated eight-race programme takes place on Monday and despite the threat of rain, the track is in good condition. More than three million dollars in cash is at stake.

The races will be run under the rules of the KMTC and owners of horses must pay at least $5,000 for each horse at the time of entry.

Entries can be made with Roopnarine Matadial of Ivan Dipnarine on 331-0316, Kennard on 623-7609, 225 4818, Fazal Habibulla on 657 7010 or Dennis Deroop on 640 6396.

Distance (Furs)

1st prize

Entries

L Non winner

5

$130,000

$13,000

E & Lower

6

$500,000

$60,000

WI Bred (maiden) & Guyana Bred H1 & Lower

7

$250,000

$28,000

2 years Guyana bred

6

$220,000

$25,000

L Open W/A

5

$130,000

$15,000

B & Lower W/A

9

$1. 200,000

$128,000

G1 & Lower

7

$280,000

$32,000

J1 & Lower &2 Years Guyana Bred

6

$180,000

$19,000

Louanna Abrams handing over the sponsorship cheque to Retired Justice Cecil Kennard, organiser of the 2016 edition of the Annual Kennard’s Turf Club Memorial Boxing Day horse race meet

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

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

HERO Caribbean Premier League 2017 Pg 22

Simmons snapped up

by St Kitts & Nevis Patriots

Phil Simmons heads to the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots in the key position of Head Coach

New Era/Cell Smart Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal Tournament…

MSC hosts clash of the titans tonight Pg 22

All eyes will be looking for the “Shark” attack when Good Fellas’ Clarence "Shark" Huggins goes head to head against the tournament’s pretty boy Jermaine "Brown Boy" Scotland of Hustlers

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