Guyana Times Daily - April 21, 2015

Girl, 13, delivers twins at Suddie Public Hospital P11age Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 2469

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

PRICE

Ram's case against Jagdeo:

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Charge not effected; no evidence of crime

PPP/C floats development fund for Berbice P8 ...targets job creation, business expansion – Harper

GECOM announces 2299 polling stations for E-Day P10

Page 3

...lawyer calls for dismissal Berbice Bridge toll waiver:

$80 vat included

Page 7

APNU/AFC received more free passes than PPP/C – CEO

The Berbice Bridge Company said that the PNC-led APNU/AFC coalition had received more free passes for their rally at Whim, Corentyne earlier this month than what the ruling PPP/C received on Sunday. This Marceano Narine photo shows the long line of vehicles of Opposition supporters who cashed in on the free passes

...says final voters’ list by next Monday

Catholic Church to monitor political speeches

P10

Barry Dataram, reputed wife, 2 others charged

Granger urges P16 Guyanese abroad to return home …says their talents, time needed

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news

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tuesday, april 21, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, April 21, 2015 – 05:00h-06:00h and Wednesday, April 22, 2015 – 05:00h-06:00h The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, April 21, 2015 – 05:35h-07:05h and Wednesday, April 22, 2015 – 06:15h-07:45h

FERRY SCHEDULE

Ram's case against Jagdeo:

Charge not effected; no evidence of crime

...lawyer calls for dismissal

L

Ferries will be departing the Parika and Supenaam stellings on: Tuesday, April 21 – 05:00h, 09:00h and 16:00h Wednesday, April 22 – 05:00h, 09:00h and 16:00h

WEATHER TODAY Heavy rain showers are expected to prevail throughout the day, with thundery showers in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-easterly between 3.58 metres per second and 5.36 metres per second.

High Tide: 06:01h and 18:28h reaching maximum heights of 2.84 metres and 2.67 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 12:01h reaching a minimum height of 0.38 metre.

awyers representing former President Bharrat Jagdeo are calling for the quashing of a private criminal charge brought against their client alleging that he uttered racially divisive remarks at Babu Jaan, Port Mourant on May 8, 2015.

The charge was read for the first time by Magistrate Charlyne Artiga at the Whim Magistrate’s Court.

Jagdeo did not attend the hearing, because he was never summoned to attend court, lead attorney, Senior Counsel Bernard De Santos told media operatives. “Mr Jagdeo is not here, because he was never served with any process .We have come as a matter of courtesy to the court as we have become aware of what the charge is and we feel there is no charge at all …The other side asked for an opportunity to reply and they need some time, so we agree to give them some time,” De Santos said.

De Santos is appearing in association with Counsels Mursaline Bacchus, Adrian Anamayah, Ian Anamayah

Supporters of former President Bharrat Jagdeo outside the Whim Magistrate’s Court

former President”. De Santos noted that he has examined the allegation and the section of the law under which the charge has been laid, and in his view, it is frivolous, vexatious and an abuse of the process of the court in which it has been filed.

He went on to state that it was a gross misinterpretation and colossal misuse and abuse of Section 139D of the Representation of the People

Party/Civic (PPP/C) and more particularly Jagdeo converged outside the Whim Magistrate’s Court to offer support. The supporters called for the matter to be thrown.

De Santos argued that the charges filed show no evidence that an offence was committed. “The charge before the court does not disclose any offence leading to the law so we want it

Another group of supporters standing in solidarity with Jagdeo outside the Whim Magistrate’s Court

saturday, april 18, 2015

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and Perry Gossai.

The charge was filed by controversial political commentator cum accountant Christopher Ram early April. The allegation is: “That on Sunday, March 8, Jagdeo made statements to the public at large at a public meeting held in Babu John, Corentyne… which can result in racial or ethnic violence or hatred among the people” as set out in Section 139 D of the Representation of the People Act. In his court papers, Ram states that Jagdeo said: “The Opposition consistently shout about the racism of the PPP, but they practise racism. The Opposition beat drums at six in the morning and say let us throw out those coolie people.”

However, De Santos, describing Ram as a known Government critic and a holder of a British passport, said he “seems to have an unnatural obsession with the

Act, Chap1:02. The Senior Counsel noted that while he would not speculate in relation to the motive which inspired the institution of the charge, he will, however, state that “it constitutes an abridgement of the constitutional right and freedom of my client to speak and express himself freely”.

De Santos further noted that the unprecedented use of a criminal charge to muzzle speakers at public political events was an assault on the democratic right of political leaders to speak freely on matters of national interest as well as a violation of the democratic right of the citizenry to receive such information. He said that the case was nothing more than political sensationalisation and mischief.

Support

On Monday, supporters of the People’s Progressive

quashed. We want it thrown out; that’s essentially what we are aiming for…you cannot charge someone if there

is no offence.”

The matter has since been put down for May 25 to allow the plaintiff to respond to the submissions. Ram was represented by Attorney-atlaw Trenton Lake.

Meanwhile, outside the court, one supporter of Jagdeo told the Guyana Times, he came out to offer his support to the former President. “We know that his remarks at Babu Jaan were not racial. He is a man who to his last breath would fight the racism in this country and these persons who are putting up the charges against him are sickening.”

The supporter asserted that Jagdeo was an asset to this country and people should respect him to the fullest as he was the champion for the cause of all Guyanese people irrespective of their class or race.

Other persons who were present related that they would continue to support Jagdeo in the matter until it was thrown out. Among those present outside the Court were Health Minister Dr Bheri Ramsaran, Member of Parliament Faizal Jaferally, Region Six Chairman David Armogan, and Vice Chairman Bhupaul Jagroop.

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guyanatimesgy.com

tuesday, april 21, 2015

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

Editorial

The politics of bitterness

I

t would appear that we have to revisit the concept of ressentiment, to explain the envy, bitterness, hatred and desire for revenge that undergirds the transparent "anonymous" attack of the "legacy" of former President Jagdeo.

Born from their belief that they should have occupied his position because of the "heritage", they lacked the strong qualities that Jagged displayed during his tenure, and became frustrated at their impotence to achieve those values. They finally and insidiously transvalued their original desire for strength and decisiveness to propose that their own weakness is superior.

In this perverse scheme, Jagdeo, who led this nation out of the economic wreckage wrought by the PNC and rolled back the armed gangsters who would have destroyed the very foundation of the Guyanese state, is now dubbed "unsuccessful".

The danger of ressentiment is that because the qualities of that define a successful leader are not found in every Tom, Dick and Harilall, the Opposition's petulant and envious transvaluation is superficially attractive. It is easy to covet and hate the successful and believe one’s weakness is superior: its excuses one’s inability to be successful.

The latest expression of this ressentiment is the full page ad in the Kaieteur News that cherry picked a number of occurrences and morbidly twists them to malign the then President Jagdeo administrations. But what is behind rage is that Jagdeo is emblematic of the leaders of the poor countries that have moved their countries from Third World to First World, but not from their ranks.

But today the sentiment of ressentiment is confined not only to the political sphere: it is also being assiduously fanned in the economic realm. There is a steady drumbeat of envy and hate directed at those entrepreneurs that have been successful in the past decade.

In the classic vocabulary of ressentiment, these businessmen are deemed to be “corrupt, avaricious and driven by greed”.

Their lifestyle is deemed “effete, decadent and debauched”.

But simultaneously, these envious naysayers bemoan the underdeveloped state of our economy. They ignore that the countries that developed exponentially under strong leaders also encouraged a strong entrepreneurial culture. Such a culture is always built on the profit motive.

China is a good example of this phenomenon in the present.

For over half a century, the Chinese attempted to develop their economy on what was deemed a more egalitarian basis. Man would work for each other and not for profit. The model failed abjectly.

After 1978, under a strong leader Deng, China accepted that the profit motive could not be ignored and accepted foreign direct investment where profits could be accumulated or repatriated.

Today China has a burgeoning middle class and as many billionaires as the USA. More Chinese have been lifted out of poverty than at any time in history. Will the Guyanese victims of essentiment - especially their proxies in the media such as SN and KN - denounce this achievement because of the profit motive? Will they condemn it as greed? Do they begrudge the lifestyle of the Chinese billionaires?

The fact of the matter is that no country has lifted itself out of poverty – be it the England of the 18th century, the US of the 19th, Japan, South Korea and the Eastern Tigers etc of the 20th – but on the efforts of an entrepreneurial class motivated by profits. Rockefeller and JP Morgan were rewarded for their vision and foresight and are today Bill Gates and Steven Jobs. In Japan and South Korea, they went further.

Strategic industries were identified and the owners were facilitated with preferential credit etc to build world class corporations. Those owners became extremely wealth but the country also rose as a whole.

If the concern is that the wealth must be distributed in such a way that all citizens benefit, that is another matter. Wealth has to be first created before it can be distributed.

Participants take part in the Colour Run near the Eiffel Tower in Paris, April 19. Participants are doused from head to toe in different colours at each kilometre (Reuters/Benoit Tessier)

Barry Dataram was not freed by me Dear Editor, On April 17, the Guyana Times carried a report about Barry Dataram in which you made a reference in the last paragraph to my judicial intervention. It is most unfortunate that your reporter was so ill-informed.

For the record, Dataram was not freed by me. He

was freed by the acting Chief Justice Ian Chang, SC, in the Full Court.

Furthermore, I was never a High Court Judge but was a Justice of Appeal of the Supreme Court and it was in this capacity that a misconceived Appeal was determined by me and, as the law then stood, was con-

strained to decline jurisdiction in an 18-page judgement which was reported in the West Indian Reports and in my Book, "In pursuit of Justice, A Collectanea."

Upon my fortuitous reappointment as Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs in 2009, I prepared and piloted legislation to address

the injustice which the decision of the Full Court manifested.

I attach for your reporter's information copies of pages two 2 and 18 of that judgment (attachment received).

Dear Editor, The PPP/C has a proud and accomplished record in Government since it heralded the return of our beloved country to globally acceptable democratic norms in 1992.

In this regard, we have graciously accepted the invitation for a public Presidential debate from the Private Sector Commission.

Our Presidential Candidate Donald Ramotar is ready and rearing to lay the progressive agenda bare before the Guyanese people and secure their confidence and mandate

for yet another term of governance under the PPP/C. We are however dismayed at the extant development with regards to the impending debate.

The PPP/C rejects the ongoing vile attacks against women candidates of our party, especially our Prime Ministerial Candidate through the daily newspaper letters and articles campaign being managed by the Opposition.

These articles are disrespectful to women in the public service and show disre-

gard to mothers, wives, and daughters who want to give service to our country.

This campaign of disrespect commenced with the most repugnant utterances from Moses Nagamooto against our Prime Ministerial candidate Elisabeth Harper during the Whim rally, held by the APNU/AFC coalition, and has since been well orchestrated by the opposition’ campaign machinery along the same vein.

The women of the PPP/C, while not intimidated, will not allow themselves to be disre-

spected by the Opposition and their surrogates.

It is for this reason that we view a public debate with Moses Nagamootoo as inappropriate, as he himself has been disrespectful and vile against Ms Harper and has shown no inclination to reverse or change this unacceptable course. The women of the PPP/C demand respect and equal treatment from those who present themselves as an alternative.

Justice Charles R Ramson, SC, OR

APNU/AFC coalition leading a campaign of disrespect

turn to page 5

The Ogle Diagnostic Centre is open and functional Dear Editor, In response to the letter published in the Stabroek News on April 20, “Sugar Workers suffering since the closure of Ogle Diagnostic Centre”, I would like to categorically state that the Ogle Diagnostic Centre is open and functional.

It is fully operational, equipped and staffed, with two qualified doctors, three professional nurses, a medical technologist, a radiographer and a pharmacist.

The Ogle Diagnostic Centre has always provided quality health care services to all employees and staff and their spouses and

children, GuySuCo’s pensioners and their spouses.

GuySuCo’s health infrastructures include two diagnostic centres – Ogle Diagnostic Centre and Rose Hall Diagnostic Centre and 15 health centres across the industry.

These centres also provide complimentary emergency

services to nearby communities.

A recent patient satisfaction survey conducted in 2014 revealed a 95 per cent satisfaction rate in services provided.

Chief Medical Officer Ogle Diagnostic Centre

Apology The Management of Guyana Times sincerely apologises for the inadvertent publication of a letter captioned “Voting

race is not always wrong”, which appeared in our letter pages with strong content, which we neither subscribe to

nor promote. The publication of the letter in the first place should not have happened.

Cognisant of this lapse,

management has taken appropriate steps internally in keeping with company policies.

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesDAY, april 21, 2015

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Rallies attracted thousands of GECOM unfairly appointed supporters from all walks of life Elections Clerks in Region 5 Dear Editor, The PPP/C is pleased with the massive turnout at its Essequibo and Berbice rallies held over the weekend.

The turnout at both rallies were undoubtedly the largest ever seen in these two regions since the October 5, 1992 elections, which saw the election to office of the PPP/C after some 28 years of PNC dictatorial rule.

The rallies attracted thousands of supporters from all walks of life and from all ethnic groups. The PPP/C is particularly encouraged by the large number of young voters and women who participated in the rallies.

These record-breaking rallies represented a clear and unmistakable statement by the people of Essequibo and Berbice that they are solidly behind the PPP/C and its Presidential and Prime Ministerial candidates, Donald Ramotar and Elizabeth Harper respectively.

It is quite evident from the sea of people that showed up at these rallies and the tumultuous welcome and prolonged applause given to par-

ty leaders who spoke that the message was well received.

Among the speakers were President Donald Ramotar, Prime Ministerial candidate Elizabeth Harper, former President Bharrat Jagdeo and PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee.

What was particularly evident from the huge turnout that attended the rallies was the fact that the vast majority came from within the catchment area of the rallies which is in sharp contrast to that of the APNU-AFC rallies in Berbice and Essequibo that saw people being transported from outside the region to create a facade of support when in fact it was nothing but a recycled and imported crowd.

The PPP/C is convinced that such attempts to inflate numbers is delusional and will not fool anyone especially those who are familiar with the demographics of the regions and the surrounding communities in which the rallies were held.

It also debunked the myth being peddled by the APNUAFC that they have made inroads in PPP/C strongholds in Berbice and Essequibo.

Indeed, the record turnout at the two rallies can only be interpreted as a complete rejection of David Granger and his political sidekick Moses Nagamootoo.

This myth seems to enjoy the support of the opposition media which has demonstrated a noticeable propensity to down play the turnout at PPP/C rallies and meetings while at the same time giving undue prominence to that of the APNU-AFC coalition.

The PPP/C takes the opportunity to thank the tens of thousands who participated in its two rallies held so far and remains optimistic that the massive show of support will translate in a resounding victory at the May 11 polls.

The PPP/C also wishes to thank its numerous activists, supporters and friends who provided the necessary logistical support which contributed to the record-breaking turnout at the two rallies.

The PPP/C looks forward to similar such support at its other planned rallies which in the period ahead.

PPP/C Freedom House

President Carter might be able to influence leaders to work together Dear Editor, The news that former US President Jimmy Carter will be among the dozens of persons who will monitor the May 11 general elections certainly brings relief to the electorates – especially from the Opposition. The fear of rigging might be minimized.

However, it is the Government that invited Carter and his team to ensure that the elections are free. In fact, it was Carter who persuaded Desmond Hoyte to introduce certain measures in the 1992 general elections which was responsible for the demise of the PNC Administration.

The Carter Centre did not mount observer missions to the 2006 and 2011elections.

The May 11 general elections will be the 100th election observation.

The first was in Panama in 1989 during a hotly contested race that the Centre

declared fraudulent. Since then, the Centre has observed elections in 38 countries.

Panama is now one of the most peaceful and unbiased countries, so much so that it successfully hosted the seventh Summit of the Americas earlier this month which was attended by US President Barack Obama and his Cuban counterpart, Raul Castro as well as more than 30 other world leaders.

It was the first time in 54 years that Cuba was represented at the Summit.

The last visit of the US President was in 2004 at the invitation of Bharat Jagdeo when Carter expressed grave disillusion with political gridlock, absence of shared governance and lack of real representation of Guyanese.

The United Nations (UN), the Organization of American States (OAS) the Commonwealth, the United Kingdom Branch

APNU/AFC coalition....

Under these circumstances, we wish to state emphatically that the APNU/AFC coalition’s demands for us to open Ms Harper further to the bitter, rude and unbridled venom of disrespect from Moses Nagamooto in a Prime Ministerial debate is reprehensible.

We reject this demand and wish to state unambiguously, that our party will not attempt to dignify the callous contempt with which Moses Nagamootoo has sought to ridicule Ms Harper and the personal hurtful and painful ex-

periences of domestic violence she has exposed to the populace; with her participation in a debate with him.

We have also noted that the coalition is attempting to include the proposed Prime Ministerial debate as conditionality for the execution of the hitherto agreed Presidential Debate.

Our Presidential Candidate Donald Ramotar stands ready to our commitment for a Presidential debate without any new conditions.

As we prepare to face the electorate for the sixth con-

of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA),the Caribbean Community (Caricom), and the Governments of India and South Africa will also send missions to observe the elections which is being hotly contested and a photo finish is expected.

Reports state that there are more than 567,000 registered voters out of a total population of 735,554.

However other reports indicate that tens of thousands of registered voters live outside the jurisdiction.

Most Guyanese are hopeful that if the PPP/C or APNU/AFC fail to gain 50 per cent of the vote to form the Government, President Carter might be able to influence the leaders of the parties to work out a shared governance in the interest of the Guyanese community.

Oscar Ramjeet

from page 4

secutive time, albeit this time not of our own making, we have approached our campaign with strength of experience and in all confidence that our party is the only one in the race holding the high moral authority to present a performance record for scrutiny, knowing well that we can defend this record in any place or forum and in the face of any credible and dignified challenge.

PPP/C Freedom House

Dear Editor, Many persons in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), including yours truly, responded to the advertisement placed in the newspapers for applicants to be trained as Returning Officers, Deputy Returning Officers, Elections Clerks and Clerical Assistants.

GECOM clearly said that only people trained and evaluated will be appointed.

Many of us were trained and evaluated. To our shock, GECOM ignored us and went ahead and appointed members of the registration staff as Elections Clerks. These registration staff never attended these training sessions.

In fact, these registration staff shared food, drinks, manuals, collected certificates and paid travelling expenses to participants.

Is this fair Dr Surujbally?

Is this fair Mr Lowenfield?

Look, we sacrificed our time to attend these training sessions.

I am confident we did well.

Many of us worked in that capacity and have the experience.

I challenge GECOM to publish our scores. This is pure rubbish! GECOM is unfair!

How can GECOM select people for such important tasks from outside of the training classes? It’s a pure friendship thing! GECOM boasts about integrity and fairness.

Talk about double standards?

Please, Mr Chairman and Mr CEO, do the honourable thing and revoke the appointment of all these Elections Clerks. Appoint those who were trained based on their scores and experience. That is what your advertisement stat-

ed.

I urge APNU-AFC Alliance and the PPP/C to investigate these appointments. Simple and honest, you were not a part of the training, then no place for you.

Stop the friendship appointments now! Imagine if something should happen to the RO or the DROs, how will these untrained friends of GECOM handle this period? I wonder if it’s the same in other regions? Maybe?

Please Mr Ramotar, please, Mr Granger, investigate these appointments. They can jeopardize the elections. Let those who deserve these positions get them. Waiting to hear from Dr Surujbally and Mr Lowenfield.

You men have used us!

Name withheld by request

It is the free will of anyone to debate or not Dear Editor, The APNU+AFC is making big noise concerning debates.

Raphael Trotman as Speaker in the 10th Parliament could not fairly conduct or allow for a proper debate in The National Assembly, but today he is crying foul and propagating debates between PPP/C and APNU+AFC. Trotman needs to know that it is the free will of anyone to debate or not to debate. It would make no sense to waste valuable time engaging someone like David Granger or Nagamootoo in any form of debate.

It is not time for APNU+AFC to dictate to the PPP/C what to do or not to do. None of APNU+AFC candidates can stand up to any form of scrutiny. For Trotman to say that the PPP/C Presidential and Prime Ministerial candidates cannot compare to that of APNU+AFC is very true, because the PPP/C candidates are persons with high standards of accountability and integrity and can give a very

good account of themselves.

The same cannot be said of these shameless APNU+AFC candidates. Mr Nagamootoo must be yearning for a chance against Mrs Harper to continue his dirty derogatory remarks as he did at the coalition rally at Whim in Berbice, but he is just lying to himself.

Nagamootoo and the APNU+AFC should be ashamed of themselves for making such nasty remarks against Mrs Harper, but these are people who know nothing about shame.

They know nothing about integrity or accountability.

These are traitors who are bent on seeking power through any means. They are baseless and have nothing to offer the Guyanese people on their campaign trail, so they referred to their cheap dirty politics of condemning people who stands to opposed them in their hunt for power.

The massive gathering that welcomes the PPP/C through-

out the country is sending shivers through the spines of APNU+AFC. They are not sleeping. They are seeing jumbies in the nights - they are seeing themselves.

APNU+AFC has this thing called crowd fright. They cannot withstand the sight of the massive gathering at all the PPP/C rallies. They already sense the feeling that they are being rejected by a majority of the Guyanese people, their plans and programme in their manifesto will be released in parts to the Guyanese people because it will be too big of a lethal pill for Guyanese to swallow at one time.

May 11will once again be victory day for the PPP/C at the polls and I hope by then these APNU+AFC cabals would develop enough strength, maturity, and courage to withstand and accept the results that awaits them on that fatfeul day.

Suresh Silas

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guyanatimesgy.com

News

The tale of 2 rivers

By: LT Willcom

G

uyana is the land of many waters and therefore one could expect a land with many bridges.

I crossed a few Bridges and two rivers last weekend and those crossings led me to question my narrow view of the existing political scenario being played out across the length and breadth of Guyana.

I used to like election campaigns. The excitement, the drama, the colorful phrases ,the evidence of the human capacity for hard work and organization , the creativity ,second only to the spirit that drives the carnivals of the region, and of course the insights offered into the workings of the human mind, especially those of the politician.

I was on the verge of losing interest in campaigns especially over the last few days. This because I began to feel that the campaign didn’t reflect the fact that a Guyana existed before and would continue to exist after the elections. I felt that in the moment the desire for blood and supremacy trumped all considerations, especially those of the electors, and that they were simply reduced to being bit players in a recurring power play.

Well I crossed the rivers

last weekend on a campaign trail that to date have given me high and lows consistent with a stormy and troubled personal relationship.

I was glad I did because it opened up a whole new way of viewing Guyana and a deeper appreciation of the complexities of governing a territory and a people so scarred by poor representation and divisive politics.

My first crossing …the Essequibo River, and the horrors of the boat ride was not something someone coming from Trinidad could ever prepare for. As I gripped the seat with all the strength I had, and wondered if my quest for political education would end in the brown,unfriendly and uninviting waters that rushed pass, itself on a course that was unending.

The calm looks on the faces of my fellow travelers ,natives all, brought some promise of a happy ending to my journey.

I am glad I made the trip, having of course to travel on land for another hour before finally arriving at a ground that seemed to have been prepared with fervor and expectancy for the return of a cherished son and not for a party of politicians .

As the meeting got on the way the mood was different, the speeches were more explanatory than

boastful and the conversation suggest that was a contract between the people and the leaders.

My trip unlike a trip to Linden bought me face to face with the challenges of developing so vast a land space , so diverse a people, and so hostile a political environment.

That mind altering boat ride brought home most forcefully to me that what I took for granted in Trinidad did not exist here. The ease of movement, the ease of travel to the mainland, the availability of jobs, the social networking, harnessing of opportunities and all the opportunities and advantages of being a city dweller was absent in their reality.

And while I felt for the people of Esequibo with the heart of a city man ,they responded to the politicians with the heart and innocence of an understanding offspring.

The mood was upbeat the, the crowd was responsive and I gather, reassured that while life was not all that they wanted it to be, they were better off than before and had faith in in the current administration of the promise of better days.

So a trip that started badly and with a realization that made me wonder how true representation was possible in this sprawl-

ing and complex landmass ended for me with an understanding of another view of a politics that was crying out to be understood, that politics is also about the governed.

My education continued as with barely enough time to recover I was on my was to Berbice, by road this time.

While I could never get accustomed to the boat rides and the fact that you could cross so much water and still be in Guyana, the travel by road was just another occasion to absorb the natural beauty of the island and the pace of development since my visits in the 80s.

The turnout out for the rally in Berbice was huge.

Let me repeat , the turn out was huge. The turnout must have made the Leaders of the PPP/C proud that the home of their wayward son Moses Nagamotoo had given them an overwhelming welcome.

It was as if the people were saying, “this is a time for celebration. PPP/C Let there be no doubt that Berbice is with you.”

So when the time came and the leaders from Bharat to Ramotar ,came up one by one to recount the 137ml.

Pump at Rose Hall, The Berbice River Bridge that their very own Nagamotoo had decried,The University

Campus at their doorsteps, the Caribbean first National Opthalmology Centre and achievement after achievement they could have sensed that they were preaching to the converted.

So what did I take away from my visits across the rivers?

It lifted my spirits.

Unlike my visit to Linden where you got the feeling that only the brave and the faithful came out.

Across the rivers you got a sense that there was celebration and hope and a people, proud, independent and wise.

It struck me as strange in areas far removed from the center of political decision making. In areas where one gets accustomed to having to shout and agitate to be heard that love and appreciation for politicians would flow so freely.

My thoughts now are that because across the river one doesn’t take things for granted nor believe in the notion of accepting handouts they recognizes every bridge ,every pump every school, every hospital as a demonstration of a commitment to the development of all Guyana and an expectation of continued equity and fairness to all.

I learnt this weekend that maybe just maybe the right people will decide.

Making mornings manageable

Ideas for Organisation (Part two)

By Michelle Larowe

Organise

If the thought of spending a Saturday afternoon at the Container Store is enough to make you volunteer to babysit your neighbour’s threeyear-old triplets (and their two dogs), I know just what you need. Stores that specialise in organisational items can make the organisationally challenged feel like an elephant in a china shop. You feel so out of place and overwhelmed that you just don’t know where to start (or for that matter, how to use half of the gadgets and gizmos on display).

“Inch by inch, anything’s a cinch” is the approach I take when helping working moms get used to the idea of organisation — creating a place for everything so that everything will have a place.

Scheduling and storage Managing your own life is challenging enough, but when you throw in your children and your spouse’s schedules, even a Palm Pilot could burn out. One effective way of keeping track of who is doing what, when, is to invest in an oversized combination cork and dry-erase board. I suggest hanging one in the kitchen by the fridge — a place even your husband can’t miss. You can pick up simple inexpensive ones at your local dollar store, or you can order more elaborate, custom-sized and framed (to match your decor) boards at www.artconceptstore.com (I’ve used this store before and love it!). Dry-erase boards are valuable because you can jot down notes, reminders and other important information in one handy place. And unlike Post-It Notes, your notes will never get lost.

Corkboards are a necessity for every busy family because they are multi-functional. You can tack up monthly calendars, school information and reminders, and printouts of emergency numbers.

Many websites offer free downloadable and printable blank calendars and phonebook templates (check out www.printfree.com). You can also hang keys on oversized push pins, jab your earrings in them when you come home from work (so that: your toddler won’t have to resist the urge to pull them off and eat them) and tack up coupons you normally misplace shortly after clipping them from Sunday’s paper. If you don’t like the cluttered look of a corkboard, try placing it in the laundry room or another room that isn’t frequented by guests but where you and your family can see and access it easily.

When you are streamlining your family’s calendar, a computer-generated calendar can be very handy. If you have older children or a technologysavvy family, you may enjoy using an online programme to sync all your activities and events. Homeconvenience.com allows you to enter your family’s scheduling information and create a customised calendar. (Excerpt from focusonthefamily.com)

news

7

tuesday, april 21, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Berbice Bridge toll waiver:

APNU/AFC received more free passes than PPP/C – CEO

B

erbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI) Chief Executive Officer Omadat Samaroo has clarified that both the People’s National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) have been allowed free passes over the Berbice Bridge during the campaigning season.

After it was realised that the PPP/C supporters who were travelling to Albion, Berbice for the Party’s rally on Sunday were being permitted to cross the bridge without paying the toll, cer-

BBCI CEO Omadat Samaroo

tain sections of the media sought to insinuate that the move was another case of abuse of public resources in favour of the incumbent ad-

ministration.

However, the CEO refuted those presumptions, disclosing that both political forces were granted toll waivers across the Bridge for their campaigns.

In fact, Samaroo noted that the Opposition coalition utilised some 250 free passes for their supporters travelling to the Whim Rally, while the PPP/C’s number did not exceed that amount.

In addition, he revealed that APNU/AFC officials were also granted free passes for the Mashramani Parade in Berbice earlier this year.

On that note, the CEO noted that the BBCI, as part of its corporate social responsibil-

The Berbice River Bridge

ity, would usually allow free passes on special occasions.

Samaroo revealed that Government offi-

cials, Non-Governmental Organisations, charitable organisations and even students on a school tour would

PPP/C heartened by massive weekend rallies

T

he massive turnout by People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) supporters at its two rallies over the weekend was a clear indicator of their support for the Party’s Presidential and Prime Ministerial Candidates, and was a sign of a resounding victory at the upcoming polls.

The Party’s General Secretary, Clement Rohee on Monday told reporters that the PPP/C was pleased with the massive turnout at its Essequibo and Berbice rallies at the weekend. The turnout, he said, was undoubtedly the largest ever seen in the two regions since the October 5, 1992 elections, which saw the election of the PPP/C to office.

The rallies attracted thousands of supporters from all walks of life and from all ethnic groups, Rohee commented. “The Party is particularly encouraged by the number of young voters and women who participated in the rally. These recordbreaking rallies represent a clear and unmistakable statement by the people of Essequibo and Berbice that they are solidly behind the PPP/C and its Presidential and Prime Ministerial Candidates.”

Well-received

According to Rohee, it was quite evident from the sea of people that showed up at the rallies and the tumultuous welcome and loud applause given to Party leaders, that the messages were well-received.

Among the speakers at the two rallies held at Damon Square, Essequibo on Saturday and at Albion, Corentyne on Sunday were President Donald Ramotar, Prime

Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper, former President Bharrat Jagdeo and Rohee himself.

He said what was evident from the huge turnout was the fact that the vast majority of supporters at the rallies had come from within the catchment area which, according to him, was in sharp contrast to the A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) rallies held in Berbice and Essequibo, which saw persons being transported from outside the respective regions, which “created a façade, when it was in fact a recycled and imported crowd”.

He said the Party was convinced that such attempts to inflate numbers was delusional and “will not fool anyone, especially those who are familiar with the demographics of the region where the rallies were held”. The turnout also debunked the myth that the APNU/AFC has made inroads in PPP/C strongholds. “The record turnout at the two rallies are a complete rejection of Granger and his political sidekick.”

The PPP/C is optimistic that the massive show of support will translate into a resounding victory at the May 11 polls.

A section of the massive crowd at the Albion rally

be eligible for toll waivers when crossing the Berbice Bridge. turn to page 8

8 NEWS

tuesday, APRIL 21, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

PPP/C floats development fund for Berbice ...targets job creation, business expansion – Harper

By Nafeeza Yahya

S

peaking to thousands gathered at the People’s Progressive Party /Civic rally at Albion, Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper said her Party planned to establish a development fund for Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) that will drive the expansion of business, production and service sectors through partnership with the Private Sector.

This will foster the creation of job opportunities, enhance the emerging sectors, in particular Information and Communication Technology (ICT), which would see the establishment of new call centres within the region and more ICT-based jobs for all. Harper, who was met with thunderous applause as she approached the podium, thanked the Berbice Chamber of Commerce for its contribution to the promotion of the business sector in Berbice, and stressed the need for improved collaboration with the Private Sector as being a key part of the region’s development as well as the nation.

She called on all to make a choice of whether they want to continue with a party that has pulled the country out of the doldrums and sustained democracy, placing Guyana in the international arena for all the right

reasons or a party that made Guyana the poorest in the world and raped the treasury leaving the country with a deficit.

Speaking on the Party’s commitment towards the education sector, she high-

She also promised to improve the facility at the University of Guyana Berbice Campus to focus on online access to lectures for students linking with both Tain and Turkeyen Campuses.

Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper

lighted that it will continue to work to improve an already strong education system. “We want to ensure enhanced job opportunities by preparing a highly skilled workforce in emerging sectors, in particular ICT, and we want to ensure that our technical institutes are equipped to ensure that our young people gain technical and vocational skills.

We want to increase the number of trained teachers and we want to ensure we can provide more programmers to enhance the special educational needs of children.”

Meanwhile, Harper told the crowd many of whom were women of the importance of their roles in society. She noted that the PPP/C strongly acknowledged the vital role women play in the development of their country, while highlighting the opportunity given to her to be the voice of women. She said they will continue to place priority on the development of women and girls, ensuring that opportunities are given to them to take up leadership roles in society and in Government, and create their own businesses.

Domestic violence and suicide will continue to be

key issues on the Party’s agenda and “we will try to have this eradicated from this society”, Harper strongly stated. “Once my Party is victorious, I will work strenuously with our women and all stakeholders to ensure that the voice of women is heard and that our rights are fully respected. We will put in place support systems for single parents including opportunities to further their education and for them to be provided with day-care services while they go out to work. My Party will also try to ensure the rights of the elderly and those who are differently able are fully respected and we want to establish substance abuse rehabilitation programmes and facilities through education and sensitisation and counselling.”

The Prime Ministerial Candidate also implored the younger generation who will be voting for the first time to look at the vision of the PPP/C .She told the gathering of the numerous opportunities offered to young people by the Party. “Look at the vision of this Party, because you, the young people, coming up soon may be standing or sitting on the same stage putting forward a vision for your country, so I want to encourage you to work hard, stay in Guyana and help build this blessed country that we are all working for.”

APNU/AFC received more free...

As such, he explained that management took into consideration the height of the current political season and made a decision to allow waivers for supporters of the political parties conducting massive rallies in the county of Berbice.

Meanwhile, the toll waivers come at a time when the BCCI declared last year that it was struggling to accumulate money to pay its dividends to its majority shareholder, the National Insurance Scheme (NIS). Sources at NIS had told the Guyana Times that it received correspondence from the Bridge Company late last year declaring that its unaudited accounts demonstrate that the company did not record a profit. The NIS source disclosed that the Company also indicated that its income was severely affected by the application of IFRIC 12 Service Concession Agreement, an interpretation to the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The Guyana Times was also told that Directors and management were currently examining and employing new

from page 7

Eyew tness

Undercover...

Y

...weevil

our Eyewitness is told that power’s like sex...the more you get, the more you want. And we know there ain’t no end to what some folks would do to get either. And sometimes one for the other. Anyhow, as the elections unfold, it’s becoming ever clearer that all is not what it seems especially as to “who’s with who”.

Take the PPPC. Almost a decade ago (Imagine that!! How time flies when you’re having a good time!) Khemraj Ramjattan quit the party when he was outed as “carrying news” to the US Embassy.

His resentment at Bharat Jagdeo shooting past him in the party hierarchy to the very top had eaten away at his guts. (Rum had already taken care of his liver!!) He formed the AFC - swearing on all sort of holy books that he and his chum from the PNC would never join the PNC or PPP/C. But he’s now gone past being in bed with the PNC over the last three years - he’s now joined at the hip. Quille surprise!!

That circumstance, of course, came to pass courtesy of his old buddy Moses Nagamootoo. He quit the PPPC when he didn’t get to be the top dog after Bharrat Jagdeo demitted office. Claimed he’d heard “voices” that Cheddi’d promised him the job. But Cheddi never smoked weed or anything! Anyhow, some people thought the PPP/C had now been purged of weevils from within.

But there are now some serious doubts. Folks are wondering what the heck’s going on with this new internet news outfit - I-news. Word is that it’s that somebody “inside” is either running the show or leaking some serious info to it. Now that wouldn’t be so strange excepting that more often than not, the leaked news is always twisted to push the Opposition’s agenda.

Problem is, all that twisting seems to have gotten all the sneaks who actually do the dirty grunge work have gotten all twisted about standards. Half the time their “stories” are just that: stories. Like in tales or fables.

They’ve become the butt of some serious snickering when they show up with real news folks.

The thing about it is that all real news folks know that everybody comes from some where. Everybody’s got a point of view or pushes someone’s point of view.

What bothers real news folks is that the I-news crew plays both sides against the middle. And they see that kind of behaviour as real lowdown.

But in the news business there is one rule that everyone accepts as the gospel truth: time is longer than twine. And all will come out in the wash eventually.

...civil society groups

Vehicles transporting PPP/C supporters to the Albion Rally

strategies, directed at improving the Company’s financial performance in the near future in order to ensure healthy returns to all stakeholders.

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

2012 it was reported that the Scheme had passed up some $200 million in dividends from the BBCI, at a time when actuarial reports showed it was running out of money. The ownership structure of the BBCI is made up of ordinary share capital of $400 million owned by private investors and preference

shares of $950 million owned by NIS. The holders of the ordinary shares, are NIS, NEW GPC, Queens Atlantic and Secure International Finance Company, each having $80 million, and Hand-in-Hand and Demerara Contractors (owned by Demerara Distillers Limited [DDL]), each holding $40 million.

Isn’t it remarkable how these “civil society” groups are sprouting up all over the place overnight?? Like mushrooms. And what’s even more remarkable is that none of them have a single member that’s even remotely close to the PPP/C. Take this last one that demands “elected (officials) be directly accountable to the people”. So we’ll all gather at the Square and pull lots? Anyhow, it’s just the process of how these groups are mushrooming that’s piqued his interest.

The Guyana Human Rights Association seems to be the moving force. Guess the GHRA’s still focusing on political “rights” as usual. Wonder if that poor fellow who was violated over in Vreed en Hoop has any rights worthy of protection. But what the heck...the GHRA knows best.

Before this there was the Blue Caps, the Guyana Youth Council, the Women’s Roundtable, and so many others that one just can’t keep track of them.

Save to note that mushrooms do tend to grow on dung.

...shrew

Your Eyewitness was pleased to see that Vanessa Kissoon was so much in praise of David Granger at the PNC’s women’s meeting. Is her transformation a case what the Bard wrote about in “Taming of the Shrew”??

news

9

tuesday, april 21, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Sophia teen stabbed 41 times – PM report …suspect still on the run

A

post-mortem examination conducted on the body of 18-yearold Alissa McPherson, who was killed reportedly by her jealous boyfriend, revealed that the teenager was stabbed at least 41 times.

McPherson, of Cappies Place, C Field Sophia, Georgetown, was brutally murdered in the wee hours of Sunday reportedly by Shivanand (only name given) called “Tuch” of School Street, Grove Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara.

The autopsy was performed on Monday morning by State Pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh at the Georgetown Public Hospital Mortuary. The cause of death was given as multiple stab wounds. McPherson reportedly sustained stab wounds to her eyes, chest, hands, neck and abdomen among others. She suffered a punctured lung and her uterus was severely damaged as a result.

According to initial reports, the teen went to a party with some relatives and someone informed the suspect that she was having an affair there. The young man subsequently arrived and an argument ensured between the couple. It was further reported that he took the young woman into a corner where he stabbed her about her body.

McPherson was picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where she succumbed around 07:30h while receiving treatment. The Guyana Times was made to understand that the couple were having problems and a few weeks ago, the teenager caught the suspect with another woman at his mother’s home. This newspaper was also informed that a torn photograph of the couple was found in the teenager’s handbag.

Trouble

Following the autopsy on Monday, the mother of the teenager, Denise McPherson, explained that she was unaware of what transpired between the teenager and the suspect that led to her daughter’s death.

“I can’t really say what happen. All I get a call that my daughter get stab up at the dance. He stab meh daughter 41 times. When I go to the hospital, meh daughter de already gone, she was just like panting for breath already. She couldn’t reply to say mommy. What is the story I can’t say. If he does beat her or what cause; she don’t say nothing,” the distraught mother related.

The woman said she had no idea that the two were having problems, but she

Woman found dead in Enmore house

A

woman was on Monday morning found dead in a house at Hope West, Enmore, East Coast Demerara, suspected to have died in her sleep.

Farida Khan, believed to be in her thirties and reportedly an alcoholic, was found lying on a bed. There were no marks of violence on her body. While information remains sketchy about the woman’s death, one man was taken into Police custody. He is being questioned, but is holding out that the woman went to bed and never woke up.

According to information received, Khan was an alco-

holic and would frequent the off-licence liquor shops in the East Coast Village. She did not have a fixed place of abode and she is reported from Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, Berbice. She moved to the East Coast village about five years ago.

Guyana Times understands that the woman was last seen about 21:00h walking in the village in the direction of the house in which she was found. She was discovered dead about 08:00h.

The body was taken to the Lyken Funeral Home to await a post-mortem examination. Police are continuing their investigations.

BMGGI donates to Linden Town Week 2015

V

ybz Entertainment, the official franchise holder of the Linden Town Week (LTW) 2015, was on Friday the recipient of a cheque, handed over by Bosai Minerals Group Guyana Incorporated (BMGGI).

Vybz Coordinator Karlene Barrow accepted the cheque on behalf of the entertainment team. Vybz Chairman Devin Sears said so far the team has received a total of $2.5 mil-

lion from BMGGI, inclusive of Friday’s contribution of $500,000.

Additionally, BMGGI donated 100 skipping ropes to the coordinators of the “Skip to My Lou” schools’ jump rope competition, scheduled to take place during the upcoming LTW. BMGGI will also be sponsoring delegate number one, Manouska Vyhuis (Miss Nottinghamshire) in the upcoming LTW pageant slated for this Saturday.

The torn photo of the dead teen, Alissa McPherson and her alleged killer, Shivanand

noticed that a few days ago, the teenager came home with marks on her left hand and when questioned, she

said that something bit her.

However, her mother did not believe that was the case.

“I say ‘girl, this is not a

bite like y’all de fighting or something?’, but she just left it like that ‘cause she don’t say anything,” the grieving mother related. According to the woman, the family has not heard anything about the whereabouts of her daughter’s killer. She disclosed that he called her home on Sunday, but she was not there and he was crying to a relative that he did not kill her daughter. “He tell meh nephew over the phone that he ain’t know nothing about what happen, that he leave Lisa in the dance. But people see he and Lisa at the dance,” she stated.

The mother said from what she was told, Shivanand reportedly took the teenager to an isolated spot at the back of the party, where he carried out the gruesome attack on the teenager. She added that he then went on the stage, where he informed persons at the par-

ty that someone was injured before he left the premises.

The elder McPherson related that when the Police went to Shivanand’s house on Sunday, his father was taken into custody and he told the Police that the young man came home Sunday morning, packed some clothes and left.

Relatives who were gathered at the hospital for the autopsy remarked that if he was innocent he would not have went into hiding. One woman commented that his actions were premeditated, because he changed his shirt after stabbing McPherson and then raised the alarm.

The tearful mother of the now deceased teen described the eldest of four children as a quiet and loving person, noting that she rarely went out. The teenager leaves to mourn her parents, siblings, and other relatives and friends.

10

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesday, april 21, 2015

News

PPP/C demands release of final list of polling stations T

he People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has again called on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to release the final list of polling stations for the May 11 General and Regional Elections.

The Party’s General Secretary, Clement Rohee, said it was important that voters be given adequate time to familiarise themselves with the respective polling places.

He said the Party previously called on GECOM to avoid as much as possible the use of private residences in preference to public and better known buildings as polling places.

“GECOM had agreed at a meeting held with political parties that the list would be released early for public knowledge and efforts would be made to avoid last-minute changes to Polling Day stations. However, it was also agreed that unavoidable changes will be done in a consultative nature with all political stakeholders.”

Rohee said the Party also reiterated its calls on the elections body to allow for the public vetting of Polling Day staff. He said if this should be treated as top secret, it will only serve to create doubts in the minds of

Rohee told the media conference.

The Party is also concerned over the seemingly abuse of proxies by the Opposition, the General Secretary noted. According to him, field staff workers have indicated that known opposition operatives have been filing proxies for persons scheduled to leave the country before Election Day and for others who are physically able to visit the polling station to cast their votes.

PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee

people and eventually, a loss of confidence.

“The world over Polling Day staff plays an important role in the electoral process, thus it is important that the populace be involved in the vetting process of these persons.

“Although they may have their personal and private political affiliation, they have a responsibility to perform their duties in a neutral and professional manner. The Party is weary of experiences, like in the past of the behaviour of Polling Day staff who seem bent on depriving PPP supporters of their rights on E-Day,”

“The Party calls on GECOM to make sure the verification of all proxies are done in according to the specifications laid out by GECOM.”

Voters’ education

He said while GECOM has launched its voters’ education programme, much effort was also needed to sensitise the voting population, particularly in the hinterland communities, since residents there have little or no

access to television or radio.

The Party also called on GECOM to also target firsttime voters so as to prevent spoilage and rejections of ballots. This, he assured, will go a long way in showing GECOM’s responsibility to the successful staging of the elections.

He said the Party’s contention with GECOM from the inception has always been with the machinery.

While there have been some improvements, he said, more

still needs to be done. “Staff on Polling Day is just as critical to those on non-polling day. We have had too much incontrovertible evidence from the past, that some of these staff have been involved in matters that have no bearing on what they are suppose to doing on Polling Day. We want to assist GECOM to pull off successful elections, we are not creating roadblocks, we are just trying to help,” he assured.

GECOM announces 2299 polling stations for E-Day ...says final voters’ list by next Monday

T

he Guyana Elections C o m m i s s i o n (GECOM) said it would be utilising 2299 polling stations across the country for the May 11 polls, 166 of which are private residences.

GECOM made the disclosure during a meeting with the People’s National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition last week. In a statement, updating the media on the outcomes of the meeting, GECOM said the APNU/ AFC representatives dis-

GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally

cussed a number of important electoral issues in the lead-up to the May 11 General and Regional Elections. Foremost among the list of issues discussed was the coalition’s request of GECOM to issue a stern public statement advising persons against the defacing, destruction and or otherwise removal of political parties’ campaign materials.

GECOM said it would be issuing a statement shortly in that regard.

Enquiries were also made by the coalition about GECOM’s current posture as it relates to the issuance of Certificates of Employment to Polling Agents working on Election Day. The GECOM Chairman, Dr

Steve Surujbally, mentioned that GECOM has undertaken steps to ensure that due process was maintained in order to achieve a legallybinding position on the matter of issuance of Certificates of Employment.

“GECOM took the opportunity to impart to the coalition representatives that on Election Day, GECOM will be utilising 2299 polling stations across the country, of which 166 are private residences. The coalition representatives expressed concerns about possible lateness of notification relative to changes of polling stations, especially those that are private residences. GECOM’s Chief Election Officer (CEO), Mr Keith Lowenfield indicated that as far as is practicable, GECOM will be contacting political parties promptly and notifying them about any changes in location of any polling station, should any such changes occur.”

Photographic folios

According to GECOM, the CEO indicated that the Official List of Electors (OLE) has been certified, and that preparations were being made to have it posted in all of GECOM’s Registration Districts by April 28, in accordance with

statutory obligations. The CEO also mentioned that GECOM would be preparing folios containing the photograph and other important bio data of all electors. These folios are to be utilised in polling stations by the presiding officers and political party agents present, as an additional means of voter verification. At the end of Election Day activities, the polling agents are required to return the folios to the Presiding Officer.

GECOM also emphasised that it was working assiduously to ensure it delivered an election that was free, fair, credible and transparent. Therefore, GECOM took the opportunity to encourage the APNU/AFC to place every confidence in the professional work being done by the Commission and the Secretariat. The APNU/ AFC assured the Chairman and his team that it has confidence in GECOM’s undertakings.

Representing APNU/AFC were Dr Rupert Roopnaraine, Joseph Harmon, David Patterson, Clayton Hall and Tabita Sarbo-Halley. GECOM was led by its Chairman, Chief Election Officer, Deputy Chief Election Officer Vishnu Persaud, and Public Relations Officer Richard Francois.

Catholic Church launches campaign to monitor political speeches

T

he Justice and Peace Commission (JPC) of the Catholic Church is launching an initiative to monitor the content of political speeches at the public meetings of political parties in the final stages of the runup to General and Regional Elections on May 11.

The purpose of the campaign monitoring initiative is to: increase public/Catholic participation in an important element of the democratic process; to identify infringements/ breaches of the Party Code of Conduct, expected to be signed shortly; and to deter inflammatory and reckless political campaign speeches

in a sensitive period.

According to a release from the Church, this initiative is all the more important given the recent display of irresponsible, reckless and vulgar behaviour on the Essequibo Coast with lynched effigies of the Opposition’s Presidential and Prime Ministerial Candidates being placed on a utility pole. Such crass public displays are highly inflammatory and insensitive during national elections and can only serve to stoke existing political and ethnic tensions.

The JPC is calling for volunteers from the public, especially Catholics, to

implement this initiative.

Volunteers will attend public meetings, fill out a prepared campaign monitoring form, and forward these to the JPC for later analysis and public release.

Persons who are interested in volunteering are hereby invited to contact the JPC immediately at jpc.guyana@ gmail.com. The monitoring form can be downloaded from the http://jpcgy.webs. com/ website. Completed forms can be scanned and emailed to jpc.guyana@ gmail.com or hard copies can be delivered to Bishop’s Office, 27 Brickdam within 24 hours of the date of the meeting monitored.

tuesday, april 21, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

11

News

Girl, 13, delivers twins at Suddie Public Hospital

A

13-year-old student from Wakapao, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) over the weekend gave birth to twins at the Suddie Public Hospital.

According to information, the schoolgirl was rushed to

the Charity Hospital after which she was transferred to Suddie. Her newborns are said to be premature and are presently in incubators. The teenager’s pregnancy was discovered after she told her class teacher that she felt some-

thing moving in her tummy.

The child was then taken to a health centre where it was proven via a pregnancy test that she was pregnant.

Reports reaching the Guyana Times revealed the teenager was left to take care

PNC-led-APNU/AFC campaign funding:

Harmon pleads ignorance of FUCOP … says campaign funding “excellent” tributions,” he told this publication.

Questioned further on what the response has been like from the Diaspora, the General Secretary said that it was overwhelming, pointing out that the party’s Presidential and Prime Ministerial Candidates, David Granger and Moses Nagamootoo were currently in Canada and they were being welcomed and supported by members of the Guyanese society.

APNU General Secretary Joseph Harmon

A

Partnership for National Unity (APNU) General Secretary Joseph Harmon says that campaign financing for his party is proceeding well, but it would welcome any donations from persons in the Diaspora, while pleading ignorance over reports that the combined Opposition is being partially funded by the shady Funding a United Committee for Opposition Presidency (FUCOP).

Speaking to the Guyana Times on Monday, Harmon said that while the party has been receiving tremendous support from its members and supporters, there was still a lot which needed to be done and this would require financing. “We need more money.

We need a lot more money to do the things that we need to do. And I want to make a plea to all of Guyana to come and join this, to come and make contributions to us. Our office is here and we have officers all over the country; show us that you want change; show that you are interested in development of your country, say no to the PPP/C Administration and every dime counts…we need everything, we can do with your contributions and we need it,” Harmon related.

Asked how the party was raising its funds, Harmon said that it has been engaged in fundraising activities, has been welcoming donations especially with its “Sponsor A Polling Place” activity. This, he related, was an activity which has been seeing persons making a contribution of a minimum of US$75 or GY$15,000 for that venture.

“There has also been a good response from the Diaspora.

There has been tremendous response to what we call the “Sponsor A Polling Place”.

People have been making contributions abroad; people have actually been coming in to us with equivalent of US$75, that is GY$15,000 and making their contributions, so we want to encourage all of Guyana to bring in their con-

Appeal

“Very excellent! You will know that yesterday (Sunday), the Prime Ministerial and the Presidential Candidate were in Canada, they had a businessman’s breakfast and that was sold out; they had a function last night at the Elite Banquet Hall in Toronto, sold out. In fact, people were actually rushing to reach them.

There were thousands of people that went out to see David Granger and Moses Nagamootoo,” he related.

According to him, persons from the Diaspora have indicated that they will be returning to the country for the elections and to work for the party and as such, he issued an appeal for persons to make available space in their homes, hotels, inns and other accommodations for the visitors as a way of supporting the coalition’s work and journey to ‘change’.

When questioned whether his party was receiving monies from FUCOP, Harmon said: “I don’t know what that is but it sounds like a bad word.”

The Guyana Times had reported several months ago that Kaieteur News Publisher Glenn Lall was funding the political Opposition through FUCOP. This support has been estimated by objective observers as totalling in the tens of millions annually. When this newspaper spoke to Lall earlier in the year, the Publisher made a perfunctory denial of the charges and suggested he would not even vote for those parties at the upcoming polls.

This was especially a surprise to APNU and the AFC since they, Kaieteur News and its publisher have supported each other’s causes for years – especially the concerted action to depose the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government.

In addition to monetary support, both of these parties have been given free columns in the Kaieteur News and their opinions are solicited on every possible issue that places the PPP/C in a negative light and then published with alacrity. The press coverage alone

would be worth additional tens of millions, said one manager from the publishing industry.

The Guyana Times was told by several businessmen that they were forced by Lall to join the FUCOP. This is reminiscent of the Committee to Re-Elect the President (CREEP) – formed in 1990 by businessmen like C N Sharma.

of her younger siblings because her mother was sent to prison after she was convicted of being involved in a murder.

Just over a week ago, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) said some 326 babies were born to teenage mothers at the hospital for the year so far. In a release, the GPHC said that for the first quarter of 2015 the hospital successfully delivered 1467 babies. In total, the institution delivered 1492 babies; however, 25 of those babies were stillborn. Out of the 1492 deliveries, 326 were born to teenage mothers ranging from under 14 to 19 years old.

“A matter of concern”

During the first quarter of 2015, the hospital saw an increase in deliveries compared to the same period last year.

According to the hospital, during the first quarter of 2014, it successfully delivered 1299 babies. In total, the hospital de-

livered 1325 babies during this period, but 26 were stillborn.

Deliveries in January 2015 surpassed the other months with a total of 565 babies being delivered. January 2014, which also had the highest number of deliveries for the first quarter of the year, saw a total of 485 babies being delivered. The first quarter of 2015 also saw an increase in teenage mom deliveries compared to last year, which saw 282 babies born to teenage mothers. GPHC’s maternity ward admitted 2373 patients for this period.

Guyana had the second highest rate of adolescent pregnancy in both the Caribbean and South America, with 97 out of every 1000 girls between the ages of 15 and 19 giving birth, according to the State of the World Population 2013 report. The report, published by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), had said that in South America, Ecuador had the highest rate with 100

15- to 19-year-olds out of every 1000 getting pregnant.

The Dominican Republic was cited as having the highest rate in the Caribbean, with 98 teens out of every 1000 getting pregnant. The Government of Guyana (GoG) back in 2013 had told the United Nations Rights of the Child Committee that some 3000 girls get pregnant each year. The UN report had said that the GoG had considered the issue a matter “of concern”. The report, subtitled, “Motherhood in Childhood: Facing the Challenges of Adolescent Pregnancy” stated that the Latin America and Caribbean Region has an adolescent birth rate of 73 per 1000 girls and a maternal mortality ratio of 81 per 100,000 live births. It said motherhood in childhood is an oversized problem that is plaguing the developing world and stripping young girls of their human rights and their physical and psychological health.

12 news

tuesday, april 21, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

In the Kaieteur News of April 19, in what purports to be a "Paid Advertisement" captioned "Jagdeo's Legacy" there are three allegations that were made against Dr Ranjisinghi Ramroop, that will be addressed.

Allegation # 1 (# 3 in ad) : Under Jagdeo, the Government-owned Pharmaceutical business consisting of several acres of land and buildings was sold at knock-down price to his friend Ranjisinghi (Bobby) Ramroop without Parliamentary approval.

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production of Flumavir – Oseltamavir Sulphate for the treatment when threat of bird flu was imminent.

The company also de​ serves commendation for its manufacturing efforts during the 2005 Floods which devastated large parts of the country.

Facts:

s part of the IMF programme imposed on Guyana under the PNC in 1989, the GPC was scheduled to be privatised in the second phase - under the new PPP/C government as it happened. Unlike those conducted by the PNC in Phase one, the sale of GPC was advertised locally in 1999 . The PPP had moved very forcefully to make the privatisation process more transparent. According to the Privatisation Agency: “Of the 6 bids received, 3 were shortlisted for further evaluation. The other 3 eliminated due to the failure to respond and submit much of the required information. Overall, the one bidder who has been consistent and the most honest in the submission of all information was Queens Atlantic.” The company was headed by a local medical doctor, Dr Ranjisinghi Ramroop.

Privatised in Parts

The sale was consummated in December 1999 when QAII bought 60% of the shares of the company which it renamed NEW GPC and incorporated under the Companies Act 1991. In addition, onto the NEW GPC was foisted “loans” extended to the old GPC by the New York financier Warburg Group to the tune of some $200m. The PNC government had used this “loan” facility to cover all

Pharmaceutical Supplier

The NEW GPC facility at Farm, East Bank Demerara

in parts”. The GPC property at 201 Camp Street, which housed Sijan Plaza, was sold to what became Citizens Bank for $247m. The GPC’s head office at Ruimveldt Public Road which had manufacturing facilities for Limacol etc and most importantly a shipping wharf, were also stripped from the company and sold to GNSC for $344 million. It was clear in retrospect that the new company had bought a “pig in a poke”. It is ironic that when the government sold a further 30% of the company to the NEW GPC, which exercise its first option clause, there were some complaints.

Based on how the assets were stripped, the NEW GPC should have received a refund. The remainder of the 10% shares are held by the government in trust for the employees.

But unlike what some other have done with their

Building a NEW GPC: People

The NEW GPC was given six months to vacate the Ruimveldt property which necessitated immediate huge capital injections at the Farm East Bank Plant to install a new manufacturing line as well as offices for staff. Three new buildings had to be constructed as well as every one of the older ones, refurbished. Overall the new owners were to inject some $600 million after it acquired the company.

The company was able to increase its productivity by focusing on visionary human resource practices.

Training of staff at all levels is paramount and salaries and fringe benefits offer incentives for staff to become trained and remain with the company. Staff receive up to four weeks vacation (five in some instances) annually with pay after just four years employment. Staff

The NEW GPC warehouse facilities

sorts of skulduggery by their political directorate.

According to the IMF Report of 1997, the total GPC asset base was valued at $706m but what is often overlooked is that, as the latest report by NICIL concedes, “GPC was privatised

privatised companies, the NEW GPC owners buckled down to create one of the most successful private companies in Guyana. It demonstrated that a well run private enterprise company can be successful here.

also receive leave passage assistance equivalent to one month’s salary, subsidized meals, discounts, uniforms, free bus transportation for East Coast, West Coast and Georgetown based employees, safety gear etc., pension and medical benefits are

standard. The relations with the unions GLU and CCWU are not surprisingly, excellent. Through these and the overall atmosphere of creating a collegial atmosphere, NEW GPC has been able to buck the trend of migration of qualified Guyanese and retain its staff. The corporation maintains one of the largest internship program’s with UG for students of Chemistry and Pharmacy.

The NEW GPC was able to retain its old position as the largest supplier of pharmaceutical products to the government’s health sector. In recent years, this has been criticised by some with short memories who forget that very few of the dozens of companies privatised by the government in the 1990s survived, much less prospered.

NEW GPC continues its bequeathed Guyanese tradi-

that eschewed competition and its attendant productivity gains. The NEW GPC is not only forced to compete locally against global manufacturers, but has pursued a vigorous exportled strategy which forces the company to lift its quality to the highest international standards. The NEW GPC is “Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP)” compliant - the gold standard in the highly regulated pharmaceutical industry and has been able to compete with the best in Caribbean as well as US and Canadian markets.

Unknown to many, NEW GPC has undergone two recent US FDA Audit inspections and found compliant thereby clearing the way for continued exportation to that country.

Building a NEW GPC: Products

Since it took over the original company in 1999, the NEW GPC has added over eighty (80) new products to its line and has a further 25 new products under development which includes statins, proton pump inhibitors, antifungals, anthelmintics and anti-parasitical.

The most famous was launched within two years of its acquisition when it started to produce a range of ten generic HIV/AIDS AntiRetroVirals (ARV’s) in 2001 at below US$360 annually to treat one patient compared with the US$5,000 - $10,000 then being charged

by US companies. It was able to do so by partnering with Indian companies such as Matrix. This facility allowed the government to treat Guyanese AIDS patients free. The company remains the only Caribbean company to produce ARV’s.

Another pioneering venture, which earned the country international accolades, was its partnering with the Sick Kids Children Hospital of Toronto and the IDB to develop the “Sprinkles program” to deal with the major problem of micronutrient deficiencies among children and women in our country.

The program reduced overall cases of anaemia by around 30 percent among pregnant women and children under five years old. The IDB, was presented with an award by the U.S. Treasury for its role.

A third pioneering ven​ ture was the company’s

NEW GPC INC employees on the production line in the factory

tion.

NEW GPC was willing to invest millions into the most extensive and modern 100,000 square feet warehousing facility for the government’s pharmaceuticals which it offered free of charge to them. This facility is easily the best in the region, meeting international standards and comprising of three temperature-controlled zones.

It is not appreciated how complex was the infrastructural network to man the pharmaceutical supply chain for the government. With the announcement that the government has constructed its own warehouse, it shall have a basis of comparison. No other private pharmaceutical company and in our estimation, the government, is in a position to offer the services of such a warehouse facility.

Export

Another major problem with the old regime under which the old GPC operated and which helped to kill it was its protected market

Its quality, packaging and other marketing demands have long been met - including the ones where most other local companies founder - on time deliveries.

Berbice Bridge

The NEW GPC is one of several members of the Guyanese private sector that invested in the Berbice Bridge.

Guyana Amazon Warriors

The NEW GPC was also the first to purchase a team in the T-20 Cricket Caribbean Premier League and bring pride to Guyana.

Conclusion

The NEW GPC has very well been the most successful privatised company in Guyana. It is poised to go on to make the country and its shareholders proud.

Addendum

As a private company, NICIL is not required to have its transactions approved by Parliament.

news

13

TuesDAY, april 21, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

In the Kaieteur News of...

from page 13

Allegation # 3 (#4) in the Ad: In another deal the Jagdeo Government sold to Ramroop the Sanata Textile Mills, consisting of several acres of land and buildings without Parliamentary approval. chinery and facilities. In Feb 2005, the Chinese Government transferred the Company to the Government of Guyana and the latter added it to the list of companies to be privatised by NICIL, the government privatisation unit.

In 2007, NICIL advertised the property for sale but there were no bidder for a year. By that time the property and equipment had deteriorated ever further

a long-term lease at $50 million annually with an option to buy. QAII immediately set out to rehabilitate the facility as described below. Two years later, it exercised its option to purchase the property and did so at market rates. There is no legal requirement for NICIL, which is a private company owned by the government under the Company's Act, to have its investment and sales approved by Parliament.

Asbestos hanging from the ceiling of the Sanata Textile company

The Facts Sanata Textiles was an investment by the Government of China back in 1980 that was never commercially viable. It was then it was spun off to the Guyana

and China Sanata Company Inc by the Chinese Government, after the PNC demitted office. However this company was also unable to run it successfully because of the decrepit ma-

The interior of one of the dilapidated buildings

Debris and accumulated junk in the complex over the years, had to be cleared away

Contractors removing asbestos from the Sanata Textile complex

and was heavily vandalised. NICIL then received a bid from the Queens Atlantic Industrial Investments (QAII) for

From the time of acquisition in 2007, QAII undertook a formidable task of carrying out mas-

sive cleanup and construction works aimed at resuscitating the property from a once ruined and dilapidated state to a modern, safe and rehabilitated one.

Hundreds of millions of dollars were spent on restoring the complex, and a further $400 million for the removal of asbestos from the buildings. Among the works completed were: Weeding and removal of overgrown vegetation; De-silting of drains; Removal of solid waste and garbage; Removal and disposal of any hazardous materi-

als or chemicals; Cleaning, dusting, washing and packing; Treatment for termites, insects and rodents; Installation of lighting for security purposes; Fixing of landscape – the entire topsoil with the rubbish and vegetation was dug out and refilled with sand; Demolishing and gutting buildings; Construction of new roads for accessibility; Construction of a new perimeter fence; and Installation of new electrical wiring systems.

Allegation # 1: In the last days of his Presidency, he (President Jagdeo) unlawfully and surreptitiously over-loaded the radio and television spectrum by gifting away twenty-two frequencies to his cronies.

(Ranjisinghi (Bobby) Ramroop is then mentioned among several individuals and entities.

T

Facts:

he exact allegation above had been made by the Kaieteur News in March 2013 and the following article had been published by the Guyana Times in response. It is this newspaper’s contention that this is the same vendetta pursued under the guise of a “paid advertisement”.

Dr Ranjisinghi Ramroop has reacted sharply to the plethora of libellous articles spun by Kaieteur News in the wake of PM Sam Hinds release of information on ownership of TV and Radio Broadcasting frequencies in Guyana.

In bold front page headlines, the muckraking tabloid claimed that "just before he left office, former President Jagdeo farmed out the airwaves for his friends”. They specifically alleged that Dr Ramroop received nine TV and Radio frequencies, from "his best friend President Jagdeo”.

“This is a total fabrication and bears not the slightest semblance to what is actually the case,” said a visibly annoyed Dr Ramroop, when GTimes sought a reaction from him. “This is just a continuation of the vendetta that Glenn Mohan Lall and his sidekick Adam Harris

Anthony Vieira smiles broadly after receiving the multi-million dollar cheque for the sale of his television station to Dr Ranjisinghi Ramroop

had launched years against me years ago. He has a very perverse and perverted fascination for President Jagdeo and me. “ Asked what were the facts about the broadcast licences, Dr Ramroop replied, “What makes the headlines most insidious is that in their editorial today (Saturday, March 15) they admitted that we purchased our TV broadcasting licence

from Viera Communications and that this also came with a Radio license. Why were these facts not mentioned in their sensationalised headlined stories??”

Noting that the reporting by the KN broke all the basic rules of journalism, Dr Ramroop noted, however, that this has become par for the course with that news outfit. “President Jagdeo gave our company noth-

ing; absolutely nothing. We bought the TV and Radio licences from Tony Vieira in a private transaction. Vieira was a very visible and vocal member of the PNC. If one wants to stretch things, one may more credibly claim that the PNC made the Ramroop Group owners of our broadcasting licences.

When questioned by Guyana Times as to whether the KN’s editorial’s claim that

“licences were non-transferrable’ made the sale questionable, Dr Ramroop sighed in exasperation. “Such a statement in an editorial makes clear the extent to which Kaieteur News is either ignorant of the law or willing to twist the law to serve its malicious persecution of my companies. The fact of the matter is that incorporated businesses are legal bodies that have a life of their own – one speaks of a ‘body corporate’. The shares in such entities can be bought and sold by individuals but the company continues with all its rights and obligations. Unlike KN we are not running a cake shop over here.”

The media owner explained that in fact it was because of this corporate reality that he received the radio licences, as property of Vieira Communications which had been pending in the courts.

In wrapping up the interview, Dr Ramroop asked rhetorically, “What kind of media operation would allow its so called journalists to write such wild ‘news reports’ which the average reader would assume to be fact checked? I consider the reputation of our media organisation to be sacrosanct and we

will take appropriate actions to protect it.”

Dr Ramroop explained that his company had bought the TV station VCT Channel 28 back in 2008 from Tony Vieira. “This was a very open and public transaction,’ Dr Ramroop explained. “In fact because Viera was so closely associated to the PNC there was some criticism of his sale to me. Details of the sale was carried by Kaieteur News under the caption, “Guyana Times owners buy VCT Ch 28”. How can they now talk about the government ‘granting’ me a TV licence?”

The Kaieteur News article of June 5 2009, cited by Dr Ramroop said in part: “With respect to the deal with the Ramroop Group of Companies that was inked this week, Vieira said that it was the best offer he received and had no option but to accept it.

“As businessmen we enter into specific business ventures with objectives whilst at the same time, seeking to conclude the best alternative or deal and I believe, having considered all my years of hard work and investments in the television industry, the offer I got for VCT from the Ramroop Group was acceptable.”

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guyanatimesgy.com

t uesDAY, April 21, 2015

News

Barry Dataram, reputed wife, two others charged for 129kg cocaine bust in Diamond P

rominent Diamond businessman Barry Dataram, along with his common-law wife, Anjanie Boodnarine, and two others was arraigned on a drug charge relating to the recent 129-kilogram cocaine bust on Monday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

The others are Trevor Gouveia, a carpenter of Best Village, West Bank Demerara (WBD), and

Alleged drug trafficker, Komal Charan

Komal Charan, 20, of 265 Belle West, WBD. They all pleaded not guilty to the charge, which

carried out a raid on Dataram’s house at Fourth Avenue, Diamond, New Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara.

Telford stated that the accused were found with the illicit drug. The court was also told that Dataram is Guyanese by birth but has US citizenship and Gouveia and Charan were his friends.

Representing the four accused, Glen Hanoman

Alleged drug trafficker, Barry Dataram

Alleged drug trafficker, Trevor Gouveia

stated that on Thursday, April 16 at Lot 661 Fourth Avenue, Block X, Diamond, East Bank Demerara, they had in their possession 129.230 kilograms of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.

They were all remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry and will make their next court appearance on May 7.

According to Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Stephen Telford, on the day in question, ranks of the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU)

Patentia Housing Scheme, WBD. He stated that the businessman was in the ‘wrong place at the wrong time’ and the house where the cocaine was unearthed was accessible to multiple occupants and the drug could have belonged to anyone.

On the day of the bust, he claimed that Boodnarine had taken her 11-monthold son to see his father.

In addition, he stated that Dataram has previously been charged for possession of cocaine but due to lack of evidence, he was freed.

On those grounds, Hanoman made an application for bail especially for Boodnarine since her child was still being breastfed, but his request was refused.

The four were Thursday last busted by CANU following a sting operation.

In addition to the cocaine, a quantity of high powered ammunition and a large sum of money were unearthed.

Dataram gained notoriety in 2007 following the kidnapping of his wife, Sheleza, and their threeyear-old daughter by two Venezuelans, one of whom was later shot dead in a confrontation with the Police.

Dataram was then arrested and detained by Police beyond the 72-hour constitutional detention period during which persons can be held without being charged.

His lawyers subsequently approached the court with a habeas corpus writ, but Police asked for an extension to conclude their investigation into the kidnapping, which they said was drug-related.

What followed was a series of court appearances during which Dataram was twice set free and rearrested. He was finally set free in December 2008.

Alleged drug trafficker, Anjanie Boodnarine

claimed that contrary to the Police reports, Dataram resided at Vriesland, WBD and Boodnarine lived at

Body of missing miner recovered from Cuyuni River

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wo days after a miner went missing following a boat mishap in the Cuyuni River, his body was recovered on Monday morning a short distance from where the accident occurred.

The body of Ivor Haynes, 45, of Second Avenue, Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) was retrieved about 07:30h by members of a search party comprising family members and friends.

His body was taken to the Bartica Hospital Mortuary, but was later transported to the Lyken Funeral Home to await a post-mortem examination scheduled for Wednesday.

The boat in which he was travelling which capsized is still to be recovered, but the captain, Peter Pollard, remained in Police custody, assisting with the investigation.

It was reported that the boat left Arawak Creek on Saturday afternoon and was heading to Bartica when the outboard engine encountered mechanical problems and suddenly cut off about 17:30h. Pulled by the current, the boat reportedly came into contact with a rock causing it to capsize.

The occupants of the boat at the time were the captain, his nephew and the businessman. The boat was transporting several containers of fuel, groceries and other items including a metal detector that was purchased by the now missing man.

Following the mishap, the captain and the young

Dead miner: Ivor Haynes

man reportedly plunged into the water and held onto a rock where they stayed for about three hours before swimming to an island where they sought assistance.

Haynes, on the other hand, was reportedly more concerned about the metal detector. Pollard told Police that Haynes was trying to save the detector and it was during that time he was seen going under water.

Both he and the instrument were not seen since.

After reaching land, Pollard stated that he along with another miner went back to the area where the accident occurred, but there was no sign of the man.

He then made his way to Bartica where he reported the matter to the Police who immediately launched an investigation.

The Guyana Times understands that Pollard was not a licensed boat captain, but owned several boats which plied mostly the Cuyuni-Mazaruni area.

Guyanese woman found with cocaine at JFK

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Guyanese woman stuffed more than just herself into her girdle, according to officials.

On April 12, Olive Fowler arrived at John F Kennedy International Airport from Georgetown, Guyana.

During an exam of Fowler’s suitcase, she seemed very nervous, according to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers.

Fowler was escorted to a private room where CBP officers searched her. It was during this search that they found packages concealed in the girdle and underwear, officials said.

The packages tested positive for cocaine. Four pounds of cocaine were seized with an estimated street value of more than US$73,000, according to officials.

“This seizure is just another example of our CBP officers being ever vigilant in protecting the United States from the distribution of these illicit drugs,” said Robert E Perez, Director of CBP’s New York Field Operations.

Fowler was arrested and turned over to Homeland Security Investigations.

She faces federal narcotics smuggling charges.

(CBSNewYork)

tuesday, april 21, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

News

Gafoors donates 2000 classroom combinations to UG T

he University of Guyana continues to receive overwhelming support from the Private Sector with the most recent contributor being Gafoors and Sons Limited.

The company on Monday donated 2000 classroom chair-desk combinations

there were also fans, projectors and new blackboards in the classrooms. He also said that there was free Internet service across the campus and promised that much more will be done as he gets the support from the varying sectors in ensuring a better life on campus for all.

Berbice will have the much advanced smart classroom system as the Turkeyen campus has access to currently. He noted that both the campuses can receive tutoring at the same time and the students can put up their hands and ask questions and also they can text

Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Jacob Opadeyi expressing his gratitude to the Executive Chairman of Gafoor, A Sattaur Gafoor

at a ceremony held at the UG Turkeyen Campus. The handing over also coincided with the launching of the Smart Classroom initiative which seeks to benefit thousands of students from the Berbice and Turkeyen campuses this following semester.

Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor Jacob Opadeyi expressed his gratitude to Gafoors, noting that he was very happy to know that the quality of the education system at the University was at a much more reliable and comfortable level. He noted that students no longer have to think as to where they will sit when they enter their classrooms as he spoke of the crisis that the University of Guyana has been plagued with for the past years.

Opadeyi added that apart from the seating facilities,

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Smart Classroom

He added that with the establishment of the University of Guyana Smart Classroom, he has been receiving many proposals on how to scale up technology.

He noted that “what you see are the challenges that arise from time to time and that is because of our slow uptake to technology”.

He said that with the Smart Classroom, persons can deliver lectures to 3000 persons in different locations. He indicated that if students miss their classes, they would be able to receive tutoring via a video conferencing technique since a recorder will be placed in the classrooms and students will be able to have access to a copy of the entire session.

He stated that by the next academic semester,

the questions if they are shy.

On this note he said that the question will show up on the board and suggestions will be given thus allowing for an interactive session.

Opadeyi indicated to the gathering that “technology changes the way you teach and the way you apply yourselves; hence, we ought to embrace technological advancements”.

As he addressed the expenses of the University, he stated that with the establishment of the Smart Classroom, tutorial sessions will be gradually taken out of the system in that it would not make sense to have a lecturer teaching the same topics three to four times per week since they can now record all lectures and have them distributed to students across the campuses.

Corentyne man jailed for 22 years for killing lad

Comfortable future

Meanwhile, Financial Controller of Gafoors and Sons, Michael Daniels noted that when Mrs Gafoors brought the proposal to the Board, the members of the Board were very prompt and unanimous in their support for the University. He said that it was, therefore, a matter of being a “corporate citizen in making sure that the University continues to provide skills required for the country’s success”.

He stated that he remembered the Chairman’s insistence on making the chairs of good quality so that students can be comfortable. He noted that it was their hope that the chairs would set a benchmark for the quality of the infrastructure which other private and public sectors companies would emulate. He also assured the students and the Vice Chancellor that the “Gafson’s Group of Companies is committed to providing assistance that would be of considerable benefit to the University and hopes that the donation was of help in some small way”.

Meanwhile, University of Guyana Student Society President Joshua Griffith was also in high praise of Gafoors and Sons for the donation. He said students will now feel a sort of relief when they enter the classrooms as they are guaranteed not just a seat but a comfortable one during the time spent in completing their tertiary education. He said that it was on the students to care for the furniture, noting that it will be the biggest task his team is saddled with. He stated that with the support received from “Gafoors, the Doobay Medical Centre and all the other sectors that would have made their contributions, there is hope of the University of Guyana in that, we can now see a future that is comfortable and advancing”.

Dead: Sahahid Makutnauth

Fazal Mohamed

Corentyne man was on Monday sentenced to 22 years in prison by Justice Brassington Reynolds in the Berbice Assizes.

Fazal Mohamed, also called “Boy” and “Mongoose” of Number 67 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, had earlier pleaded guilty to murdering Sahahid Makutnauth, also called “Buddy” of Number 68 Squatting Area, Corentyne on August 20, 2012.

State Prosecutor Judith Mursalin told the court that Makutnauth’s parents had a misunderstanding and as a result, his mother, Anita Persaud, drank kerosene and was rushed to the Skeldon Hospital. The children were left in the care of their 12-yearold sister.

She said at about 21:00h that day the mother returned home and Makutnauth was not there. He was last seen in the company of the accused about 17:00h on a street in the village. Two days later, Detective Corporal Dwayne Harvey received certain information which led him to a clump of bushes about one mile into the backlands where he found the badly decomposed naked body of the child lying in a swamp.

Government Pathologist Dr Vivekanand Bridgemohan visited the scene and performed the post-mortem right there. The doctor found that the child had sustained a clean cut to the chest and a large lacerated wound to the frontoparietal area and fractures of

the skull bones. Additionally, there was an open compound fracture of the right lower forearm with the hand hanging loosely. The cause of death was multiple injuries.

Mohamed was subsequently arrested and later gave the Police a confession statement in which he said that he saw the boy on the street and took him into the back dam where there were some shallow ponds. “I then cuff he plenty times to his head and push him down. I then push up a piece of hard stick and I lash him in his head plenty time. He start to cry and when I see blood I leff. I beat “Boy” five minutes.

Then I went by my sister fence and sleep deh...”

In a probation report supplied to the court by Probation and Welfare Officer Voonashewarie Gopaul, she said Mohamed attended school in Black Bush Polder and dropped out at Grade Three due to economic pressure. She added that there were reports that Mohamed confessed to using marijuana in large quantities.

Defence Attorney Raymond Ali asked the court to give his client credit for his guilty plea and noted that it was clear that he came from a broken home.

The Judge noted that the offence has a 30-year sentence attached, but deducted five years for the guilty plea and a further three years for the time he was in prison awaiting trial.

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EU proposes doubling resources amid boat migrant crisis

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he European Union has proposed doubling the size of its Mediterranean search and rescue operations as at least 20 people are feared dead in the latest incident involving migrants trying to make their way to the continent.

A 10-point plan presented by the European Commission on Monday is expected to be discussed at an extraordinary summit of EU leaders on Thursday.

“The situation in the Mediterranean is dramatic. It cannot continue like this,” said Donald Tusk, the

President of the European Council.

Federica Mogherini, the Chief of EU Foreign Affairs, said the deaths of hundreds of migrants over the weekend and Monday has “finally” given the idea of “a new sense of urgency, a new sense of political will” to tackle the crisis.

Even if the move is approved, it would leave the operation smaller and less well-funded than an Italian mission that was abandoned last year due to costs and domestic opposition citing sea rescues as attracting more

Italian authorities have rescued thousands of migrants this year but 1500 others are feared to have drowned [AFP]

migrants.

At least 20 migrants were

feared dead on the boats, the International Organisation

of Migration (IOM) said after receiving a distress call

from a person on board one of the vessels.

Earlier on Monday, at least 90 people were rescued after a boat carrying migrants ran aground off the Greek island of Rhodes, Police said. Three deaths were confirmed by Greek Coastguards.

Hundreds of migrants are thought to have drowned when their boat overturned on Sunday, off the coast of Libya.

Up to 1500 migrants are now feared to have drowned this year alone. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

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17

tuesDAY, april 21, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

PPP/C supporters attacked NA man gets 19 after Albion rally years for raping …doused with corrosive substance, stoned

F

our persons were injured when missiles were thrown at them as they made their way home from a People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) rally on Sunday.

The incident occurred at Leeds Village on the Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

The victims, who asked not to be identified, were in a truck when a group of people started pelting missiles at the truck as it passed through the village. The incident occurred after dark with no visible street lighting. The missiles included bottles filled with stones and sand, bottles with corrosive substances and hot eggs. Those injured include two teenagers, one of whom suffered first-degree burns to her upper right arm.

The other teenager was hit with a bottle and was taken to the Skeldon Hospital suffering from a haematoma to the head. A haematoma is a collection of blood outside of a blood vessel (basically a swelling containing blood). It occurs because the wall of a blood vessel, artery, vein or capillary, has been damaged and blood has leaked into tissues where it does not belong.

According to the teenager, she received the burns when a bottle hit her and exploded.

Another man suffered blisters to the face when he used his handkerchief to protect his face.

His kerchief was burnt with what appeared to be a corrosive substance and he received blisters to his face.

Reports are that several other persons were pelted with hot eggs. The four were all treated at hospital and sent away.

Eyewitnesses say injuries were kept to a minimum because the truck did not stop

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo

when the throwing started.

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo and several Government Ministers were still in Berbice at the time, and they were in touch with the victims and their families.

They also offered their support on behalf of the party and ensured that the injured received adequate medical care.

Be tolerant

Police in a release said

the Force was conducting investigations into reports that about 19:30h on Sunday, objects were allegedly thrown into a motor vehicle transporting supporters of the PPP/C political party in the vicinity of Number 50 Village.

The release said the Guyana Police Force was taking this opportunity to call on members of the public to be tolerant of the political activities that were taking place at this time which were part of Guyana’s democratic process.

Police are urging citizens to refrain from interfering with persons who may be of other political persuasion.

Meanwhile, the PPP/C has condemned the vicious attack on its supporters, and said it

might very well be a manifestation of frantic desperation by the main Opposition.

In light of the attack, the Party has condemned such action, stating that the criminal offence should not have occurred.

Party General Secretary Clement Rohee, during a press conference on Monday, stated that he could not be sure if the attack was centrally or locally directed.

According to him, if it were centrally directed, then it was a matter of serious concern to the Party.

“The questions now is, is this a provocation and who is provoking it? If it is a provocation, is it centrally or locally directed? If it is centrally directed, then it is a matter of serious concern to the PPP. It tells us that not only is it provocative in nature, but a manifestation of desperation of frantic response by the Opposition to this massive turnout to these rallies,” he said.

Rohee said while his Party was accustomed to such attacks in the past, it was reassuring the public that the PPP/C supporters will not be intimidated easily, and for sure, will not retaliate.

He said the PPP, like every other political party, has been conducting its campaign in a peaceful manner within the law. According to him, the treatment meted out to the supporters was a criminal offence and he was unaware of any similar treatment given to participants at Opposition rallies.

“This is not the first time the PPP has experienced this, we are battle ready, and we have to be careful that there is no retaliation by those who are affected. We have a responsibility to calm our supporters and to ensure that

6-year-old

A

PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee

good judgment prevails,” he said.

Last week, the Party had raised similar concerns, noting that it had already informed the Guyana Police Force about the threats and intimidation being meted out to its members and supporters by Opposition members.

Party Member Gail Teixeira said it was unacceptable, as “we still have at least one month to go before elections, and the fact that this is done openly with persons in their uniform..They are not trying to hide what they are doing. These are not incidents that we wish to amplify or exaggerate.”

Teixeira said Guyana has never been all these years a “garrison country” like Jamaica where if a person wears his party colours and goes into another community, he is abused and threatened.

She said the right of each Guyanese to choose and vote without fear and intimidation is as important as every attempt to ensure free and fair elections. Teixeira stressed that the incident mirrored what the Party has reported has been happening in other regions across the country.

New Amsterdam, Berbice man was on Monday jailed for 19 years for raping a six-yearold girl.

Harold Naurayan, 45, of Coopers Lane, New Amsterdam, Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), was given the sentence by Justice Brassington Reynolds after a probation report was presented to the court and a psychiatric consultant gave a report on the victim on Monday.

A mixed jury had earlier found Naurayan guilty of the offence, which he committed between February 1, 2013 and April 27, 2013.

Justice Reynolds said that the act carried a maximum penalty of life imprisonment and he took into account Naurayan’s age and a World Health Organisation (WHO) report that the life expectancy of a male is 63 years in coming up with the sentence. “Against that backdrop and the nature of the offence it is 16 to 20 years...

Having heard the mitigations by your lawyer and the fact that you had no previous convictions, I deducted one year,” the trial Judge told the convicted man.

Earlier, psychiatric consultant, Dr Moyda Grajedas was called to the stand to testify what psychological trauma the victim may have suffered and whether the incident will have a psychological impact on her life later on. According to the Judge, the court needed to get a sense of the degree of harm which may manifest itself in

BBCI donates to Disabled Fire breaks out at L’Aventure school ome two years after fire mediately informed the Fire causing any further damages.

People’s Network gutted a section of the Service. “After I call the Fire However, he could not have

T

he Berbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI) has made a donation to the Disabled People’s Network of Region Five, assisting the group in obtain-

The BBCI was pleased to make the donation towards the abovementioned initiative since the proceeds of the football competition will be used to promote awareness

BBCI Administrative Supervisor Amarnauth Singh handing over the cheque and trophy to a representative of the Disabled People’s Network

ing the first prize of its fundraising football competition.

BBCI Administrative Supervisor Amarnauth Singh last Tuesday handed over a cheque valued $20,000 and one trophy to the Disabled People’s Network.

in the Berbice area of people living with disabilities. The Company said it has supported the Disabled People’s Network of Region Five immensely over the years 2012-2014 and will continue to do so, subject to the availability of funds.

S

L’Aventure Secondary School, Canal Number One Polder, West Bank Demerara, another one broke out Monday evening, this time destroying a cupboard filled with books and seriously damaging parts of the interior walls.

According to reports, around 20:50h Monday evening a small fire, believed to be arson, broke out at the school.

It reportedly began in a cupboard that contained books, engulfing it and had spread to the wall on the northern side of the building. When this newspaper arrived at the scene fire fighter had already put out the blaze and was assessing the damage along with officials of the school.

Persons from around the area were positive that the fire was arson since there were no electrical outlets nearby the cupboard.

A man residing next door to the school told this newspaper that around 20:50h, he was awakened by his back neighbour who informed him that there was a fire at the school. He then went to check and saw flames in the front half of the school and im-

Service, I just call some more neighbours and we start fetch over water at the school…

When we go in (the building) I see the cupboard engulf in flames so we start thrown water and try fuh out de fire,” the man recalled.

He further noted that by the time the Fire Service arrived they had managed to control the fire from spread

confirmed at the time whether it was indeed the work of an arsonist. Back in September 2013, a fire broke out at the school, partially destroying the back section, and caused chaos since school was in session at the time. The fire reportedly started following two loud explosions in the Home Economics Department of the secondary school, result-

Investigators at the scene on Monday night after putting out the small blaze

but the fire fighters took over and put out the flames.

Meanwhile, when contacted by this publication Crime Chief Marlon Gentle stated that the fire fighters were able to put out the small flames and prevent the fire from

ing in students and teachers scampering to safety. The explosions are suspected to have come from two gas cylinders in the lower-flat of the two-storey building which housed the administrative office, library and staff room.

years to come.

Dr Grajedas said the victim needed more than a psychiatric evaluation; she needed a psychological evaluation because she was not mentally ill, adding that she was a psychiatric doctor. She said that a psychological test was done, but she was not in receipt of the results. “The test proved that she is in better shape. The healing process is effective… she seems to be adapting well. She is stable right now, all the complaints that she use to make to her mother about nightmares

Harold Naurayan being taken to jail on Monday

are no longer present,” the doctor said.

Meanwhile, in a probation report on Naurayan, Social Welfare Officer Judith Vankennie noted that he was a father of six from three different relationships and married a relative of the victim in 2009 before they separated owing to marital infidelity. As it relates to the victim, Vankennie said reports from the Human Services Ministry indicated that she received counselling from that agency which enabled her to deal with the negative psychological effects that she experienced. “It is important for the court to take cognisance of the consequences of the act. It is incumbent upon this court to adjudicate this matter in a manner that would reflect the serious psychological and other negative effects on the victim.”

State Prosecutor Judith Mursalin had told the court that at the time the offence was committed the victim was six years old and on the day in question she had got home from school, changed her clothing and was about to leave the house to go to her mother, who was vending at a roadside stand when Naurayan raped her. He further told her that she would be punished by her mother if she spoke of the incident.

According to the Prosecutor, the child kept the incident a secret, but on April 27, 2013, her mother had a conversation with her brother who had reported something she had said to him, and then went and questioned the daughter who told her what happened.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesday, april 21, 2015

ARCHIE

Your popularity is soaring.

New people you meet through (March 21- travel or social media will be April 19) won over by your charm and sense of humour. It’s your day to shine.

ARIES

Increased responsibilities TAURUS will highlight your depend(April 20- ability and knowledge. Your May 20) versatility and ability to get along with and work alongside your peers will lead to great success.

dilbert

You will experience emoGEMINI tional ups and downs. Forget (May 21about dealing with personal June 20) issues for now. Working on a hobby or creative project will be fulfilling and will bring you peace of mind.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

You will feel better once you reorganise and edit your personal papers. Nothing is more frustrating than searching high and low for something you need right away.

Contribute to a meanLEO ingful cause. Being gener(July 23ous with your time as well as Aug. 22) your cash will enable you to help those who need it most.

An influential connection will arise due to your efforts.

Calvin and Hobbes

If you want to be promotVIRGO ed, you need to keep your per(Aug. 23sonal matters out of the workSept. 22) place. Your position will be jeopardised if you take time off or fail to be productive.

LIBRA Social events will be a sur(Sept. 23- prising source of educational Oct. 23) information. Listen to others’ opinions and suggestions in order to discover useful, applicable information.

SUDOKU

Improving your financial SCORPIO position takes effort. Keep (Oct. 24Nov. 22) abreast of information regarding investments, savings plans or high-interest accounts. Act quickly when a favourable opportunity arises.

Some friendships are not SAGITTARIUS maturing as you’d hoped. If (Nov. 23- you decide to part ways with Dec. 21) someone, be honest and upfront regarding your decision.

Don’t make weak excuses or place blame elsewhere.

Solution

Unnecessary worry will CAPRICORN affect your sleep. A change in (Dec. 22- the workplace will cause inJan. 19) security and tension. Work diligently and mind your own business. Add extra detail and precision to whatever you do.

AQUARIUS Family and friends will put demands on you. Keep (Jan. 20- your temper in check to avoid Feb. 19) unhappy conflicts. Becoming angry will not help your situation, but patience and workable solutions will.

PISCES An elderly friend will need (Feb. 20- support. Recognising his or March 20) her frustration will ease everyone’s stress. Your compassion and patience will be tested, but also appreciated.

tuesday, april 21, 2015

19

GCB U-19 Inter-County 1-Day tournament...

Spirited Demerara bowlers defend middling total – National Under-17 edge Essequibo by 11 runs

By Rajiv Bisnauth

D

emerara pulled off a comprehensive 58-run victory over Berbice in the first round of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Under-19 Inter-County One-Day Tournament at the Enterprise Ground on Monday.

A stunning performance by the bowlers backed by excellent fielding helped Demerara defend a small total of 219 as Berbice were bowled out for 161 in 44.5 overs.

Berbice crumbled in panic and kept losing wickets at regular intervals.

Samuel Kistasammy (30) played something of a lone hand upfront before a stubborn last-wicket partnership of 56 runs between Grisean Grant (31 not out) and Joel Seetram (20) delayed the inevitable.

Sherfane Rutherford, who was both economical and penetrative, and Tariq Dharamlall were the pick of the Demerara bowlers bagging 3-51 and 3-34 respectively, while Malcom

Tariq Dharamlall

Hubbard (2-16) and Carlton Jacques (1-15) were the other bowlers with success.

Earlier, it was a complete performance by the Berbice bowling attack as they restricted Demerara to 219-9 on what appeared to be a batting-friendly track.

Rutherford scored a watchful but smart 71 that came from 97 balls, with three sixes and two fours.

Ronaldo Renee and Rutherford nursed their side through the first power-play to 25 without loss.

Demerara also failed to cap-

italise on the batting powerplay, scoring 22 runs during that period.

The openers simply blocked and prodded, allowing the bowlers to dominate.

Grant (2-35) and Balchand Baldeo (1-31) shared the new ball, but after five overs from Grant, which went for 14 runs, the Berbicians employed an allspin attack until the 37th over.

The spinners varied their pace, and in the 29th over, Daniel Lewis (2-39) removed both Renee and Tevin Imlack off successive deliveries at 85-2.

Renee made 34 off 82 balls, while Imlack went first ball without scoring.

Rutherford and Travis Persaud added 54 in tandem. It was a stand that started slowly, but they picked up pace as the innings progressed.

There were some interesting shots from both batsmen, with Rutherford hitting Leon Andrews for a six and four to speed away to his half-century.

But there was anoth-

Sherfane Rutherford collects the Man-of-the-Match trophy from former West Indies batsman Alvin Kallicharran

er wobble in store. Baldeo trapped Rutherford leg before wicket, while Grant, who returned for his second spell, claimed the wickets of Vivian Albert for two and Akshaya Persaud for 10.

Demerara then scored 58 in the last 10 overs, with Hubbard scoring 30 of those runs from 25 balls. Travis Persaud stroked a 45-ball 31, while Ershad Alli and Daniel Basdeo made four

and nine respectively.

Seetram (2-56) and Kassim Khan (1-32) were the other successful bowlers.

Berbice made a faulty start losing their first three wickets for 14 runs compliments of medium-fast bowlers Jacques and Rutherford.

Both bowlers impressed with their steady line and length. Jacques dismissed Leon Andrews (1), while Rutherford removed

the hard-hitting Shemron Hetymer (0) and Balchand Baldeo (5) cheaply to boost Demerara’s chances of defending the low total.

Spinners Dharamlall and Hubbard then shared five wickets between them to reduce Berbice to 104-8.

Dharamlall claimed the wickets of Clifton Lindie (11); Parmanand Ramdhan (14); and Lewis (13), while Hubbard had Samuel Kistasammy and Ritesh Umrao (6).

Rutherford returned for his second spell and removed Kassim Khan for five before Vivian Albert claimed the final wicket of Seetram.

Meanwhile, in the other first-round game at the Wales Community Centre Ground, the National Under-17 team edged Essequibo by 11 runs. Set 119 for a win, Essequibo folded to 107 in 37.4 overs.

Round two is set for today, with the Under-17 squad playing Demerara at the Police Ground and Berbice taking on Essequibo at Everest Cricket Club Ground.

Digicel, Region 10 Democratic Council honour outstanding athletes

T

Cassey George

hree-time Digicel Schools’ nationwide football champions, Christianburg Wismar Secondary School (CWSS) and Sportswoman of the Year Cassey George were on Thursday honoured at an awards ceremony in Linden.

The event, an initiative of Digicel and the Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) Democratic Council (RDC), was held at

the Egbert Benjamin Hall and Conference Centre and was marked by the presentation of plaques.

In attendance to pay tribute were the awardees’ families as well as Digicel and regional officials.

Speaking at the event, Regional Chairman Sharma Solomon said many young people have found hope in the achievements of the CWSS football team, also the Edward Screw Richmond football tournament two-time champions.

He urged parents and “corporate citizen” and sponsor Digicel to continue supporting the team, while he encouraged team members to aspire and “forget about the politics of football”.

Solomon also charged the team to continue to aspire, while he congratulated head-teacher Cleveland Thomas and coaches Anthony Stephens and Delon Peters, who were also awarded at the ceremony.

“This is more than an exercise giving an award. This is really an exercise on behalf of the people of Region 10 to celebrate your successes. To say to you that we are witnessing your success and we are proud of you, because your success is our success and we are very

Flashback: The winning CWSS team at last year’s Digicel School Championships

grateful for that…”

He also urged the team to continue to work hard collectively and to use their achievements to aspire others. Solomon said George was one of the “finest athletes in Guyana”, while he praised the CWSS for producing both the team and George. ”I can say to you Mr Thomas is doing a fine job…You are humble with humility, but when you walk the streets of Linden, we are proud to call you our own.”

Guest speaker at the event, former Region 10 Member of

Parliament Vanessa Kissoon said the occasion was indeed a proud moment for the community and members of the CWSS team.

“It says not only do you have a winning streak, but a recipe for winning. Three consecutive wins is no ordinary feat and this must be a proud moment, significantly for those who have been behind you, nurturing and supporting you…Each of you represent what it means to achieve continuously,” she said.

She urged the team to keep their eyes on the prize and to con-

tinue to succeed in their endeavours.

Digicel Events and Sponsorship Manager Gavin Hope endorsed the initiative of awarding and showing recognition to successful athletes, while he encouraged the awardees to continue along a positive path.

He underscored the importance of sports and academics, noting that they go hand in hand. Hope said the CWSS head-teacher as well as the team should serve as a role model for teachers and students across the country, adding that it was a remarkable achievement.

20

guyanatimesGY.com

tuesday, april 21, 2015

KKR bowlers hand DD ninth successive home loss K

olkata Knight Riders’ bowlers set up their third win in four games, restricting Delhi Daredevils to 146 for 8. Gautam Gambhir then made his third half-century in four innings to consign the hosts to their ninth successive defeat at Feroz Shah Kotla.

Neither captain was sure at the toss about how the pitch, dry and grassy, would behave. Both wanted to chase; Gambhir won the toss. The ball seemed to come on decently, especially at the start, although

Floyd Mayweather says he’s better than Muhammad Ali

when a partnership was starting to build. Opener Shreyas Iyer played some superb shots off the back foot but having motored to 31 off 24, was bowled after missing a slog at Piyush Chawla. That ended a thirdwicket partnership of 36 with Manoj Tiwary.

Tiwary and Yuvraj Singh added 37 for the fourth wicket, the highest partnership of the game for Daredevils, but on 32, the Bengal batsman dragged a wide one from Morne Morkel straight to midwicket in the 14th over.

SCOREBOARD Delhi Daredevils innings (20 overs maximum) MA Agarwal c UT Yadav b Morkel

1 SS Iyer b Chawla 31 JP Duminy* b Narine 5 MK Tiwary c Pathan b Morkel 32 Yuvraj Singh st †Uthappa b Chawla 21 AD Mathews c †Uthappa b UT Yadav 28 KM Jadhav† c Gambhir b UT Yadav 12 NM Coulter-Nile run out (Pandey/†Uthappa) 2 1 A Mishra not out Extras: (lb 3, w 10) 13 Total: (8 wickets; 20 overs) 146 Did not bat: Imran Tahir, DJ Muthuswami Fall of wickets: 1-3, 2-22, 3-58, 4-95, 5-103, 6-123, 7-145, 8-146.

Kolkata Knight Riders Bowling: UT Yadav 4-0-18-2, M Morkel 4-0-30-2, SP Narine 4-0-38-1,

Duminy felt the pitch deteriorated as the game progressed.

The Daredevils batsmen fell to poor strokes, and many of them came just

AD Russell 3-0-21-0, PP Chawla 4-0-27-2, YK Pathan 1-0-9-0.

Kolkata Knight Riders innings (target: 147 runs from 20 overs) RV Uthappa† c Duminy b Muthuswami 13 G Gambhir* b Imran Tahir 60 MK Pandey c Imran Tahir b Muthuswami 0 SA Yadav c †Jadhav b Coulter-Nile 24 YK Pathan not out 40 RN ten Doeschate not out 3 Extras: (lb 4, w 3) 7 Total:(4 wickets; 18.1 overs) 147 Did not bat: AD Russell, PP Chawla, SP Narine, M Morkel, UT Yadav Fall of wickets: 1-31, 2-31, 3-79, 4-144.

Delhi Daredevils Bowling: DJ Muthuswami 3-0-18-2, NM Coulter-Nile 4-0-30-1, AD Mathews 3-0-33-0, Imran Tahir 4-0-30-1, JP Duminy 1-010-0, A Mishra 3-1-0-22-0.

Daredevils dealt themselves another blow in the next over when Yuvraj strolled out after missing a sweep off Chawla and was stumped for 21 off 19.

A

Floyd Mayweather Jr

Gautam Gambhir and Yusuf Pathan put on 65 runs for the fourth wicket

Angelo Mathews helped Daredevils take 43 off the last five overs, including 20 off Sunil Narine in the 19th.

The offspinner had bowled a couple of tight overs before but was repeatedly slogged over midwicket at the death

by Mathews and Kedar Jadhav. Umesh Yadav did not let Daredevils go past 150, giving away just three in the final over.

Gambhir and Robin Uthappa were in control of the chase when Domnic Joseph removed the latter and Manish Pandey in fifth over, both batsmen trying to force boundaries but failing to clear the fielders.

Suryakumar Yadav

clubbed a few boundaries to add 48 with Gambhir, but it was the Knight Riders captain who piloted the chase.

Putting away loose deliveries off his pads and finding gaps through the off side, Gambhir put Knight Riders on course. He is a difficult batsman to stop when he is able to dab singles behind point at will, which is what he did tonight.

Gambhir’s fourth-wicket stand of 65 with Yusuf Pathan sealed it for Knight Riders. Yusuf did not look too comfortable at the start, but he lashed out at short balls, and stayed unbeaten on 40 off 26. (Cricinfo)

the matchball against Rayo Vallecano in March it was his 32nd hat-trick - passing another of former Athletic Bilbao striker Zarra’s Spanish records.

Barcelona host Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday, leading 3-1 from the away leg. (Digicel SportsMax)

confident Floyd Mayweather declared his belief that he is better than boxing great Muhammad Ali. Comparing Floyd Mayweather to boxing legend Muhammad Ali is difficult considering the two fought in different weight classes. A head-to-head fight would not really be fair.

But that does not stop people, especially Mayweather, from talking about it.

The undefeated boxer - who is less than two weeks away from the richest bout in boxing history against Manny Pacquiao spoke with ESPN to confidently boast he is a better fighter than Ali ever was.

"No one can ever brainwash me to make me believe that Sugar Ray Robinson

and Muhammad Ali was better than me," he said.

"No one could ever brainwash me and tell me that.

But one thing I will do, I'm going to take my hat off to them and respect those guys because those are the guys that paved the way for me to be where I'm at today."

He then went on to talk about Leon Spinks' experience and Ali's strategy in the 1974 'Rumble in the Jungle' fight against George Foreman.

"Leon Spinks only had seven fights," he said.

"Never put a fighter in there with Floyd Mayweather with seven fights.

"Take punishment and let a man tire yourself out from beating you? You hit him with a few punches and go down and quit and you want to be glorified for that?" (Digicel SportsMax)

Indian cricketer Messi achievement unrepeatable, dies in fielding says Luis Enrique collision

A

fter Lionel Messi’s 400th competitive goal, Barcelona coach Luis Enrique believes the record may never be matched.

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique believes Lionel Messi’s record of 400 competitive goals may never be matched.

The Argentina international hit the milestone with the second goal in a 2-0 Liga victory over Valencia at the weekend, reaching the quadruple century in his 471st appearance.

“Messi is in top condition,” said Luis Enrique.

“400 goals? That’s almost impossible. Unrepeatable I would say.”

Messi, who surpassed Paulino Alcantara as Barca’s all-time leading scorer last season, has broken a host of records this term.

In November, he struck a hat-trick against Sevilla to overhaul Telmo Zarra’s

Nick Tooth dies making tackle in Australian club match

A Lionel Messi

previous best La Liga goals mark of 251. Messi’s La Liga numbers now come in at 278 goals in 309 matches.

During the same month he surpassed Real Madrid great Raul as the UEFA Champions League’s alltime top goalscorer, although he now lies level with great rival Cristiano Ronaldo on 75.

When Messi took home

25-year-old fly-half has died after suffering a head injury while making a tackle for his Australian club side.

Quirindi Lions’ Nick Tooth was airlifted to hospital after a clash of heads against Narrabri Blue Boars on Saturday, and died despite surgery.

“There was no foul play, nothing untoward about it at all. Sadly it was just a very tragic accident,” club president Charles Murray told ABC, Australia’s public broadcaster.

“He was a lovely kid.”

I

Ankit Keshri

Nick Tooth

Former Wallaby scrumhalf Nick Farr-Jones said the New South Wales Rugby Union - which he chairs would provide “ongoing” support to Tooth’s family.

(BBC Sport)

ndian cricketer Ankit Keshri has died after colliding with a teammate as they both attempted to take a catch in a club match in Kolkata on Friday.

The 20-year-old, a former captain of Bengal’s under-19 state team, was only on the field as a substitute fielder.

He reportedly regained

consciousness after the collision, but later suffered a cardiac arrest in hospital and died on Monday.

Former India batsman Sachin Tendulkar said he was “saddened” by the news.

“A promising career aborted by an unfortunate incident on field,” Tendulkar, who has scored more Test and one-day international runs than any other player, tweeted.

“May God give strength to Ankit’s family and friends to cope with this loss.”

Manoj Tiwary, who has played nine one-day internationals for India, predicted on the social media site that Keshri would have represented his state at senior, as well as age-grade, level.

Australia Test batsman Phillip Hughes died in November after being struck by a delivery bowled in a domestic match in his home country. (BBC Sport)

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President Donald Ramotar waves to students moments before commissioning the facility last Friday

He added, “We are proud of the drainage system in this facility, it has the capacity to efficiently drain the entire field within an hour. The features are similar to that of the drainage system at the stadium. In the past, training or competitions were often suspended, because the facilities were flooded; we do not anticipate any such problems with this facility. We are also proud of the lighting system; this has met international standards and will allow us to host many of the athletics and football events in the evening.”

The Minister further stated that three multi-purpose buildings have been constructed in the compound of the facility, with their primary function being to provide seating accommodation.

Below the seating areas are changing rooms, hold-

ing areas, administrative rooms, medical rooms and other amenities needed for the smooth functioning of the edifice.

“This facility will have approximately 24 persons employed on a full-time basis; they include the administration staff, the technical ground staff and the coaching staff. In addition, the local staff that will be working here, our intention is to have two Cuban coaches, one in track and the other in field events. The expertise of all our coaching staff will be available to the clubs and athletes who would like to utilise the facilities,” the Minister explained.

IAAF-certified

With the completion of the track, which is certified by the world governing body for athletics, the International Association of Athletics Federations

(IAAF), all track and field events will now be held at Leonora, affording local athletes the luxury of training and competing on a surface that is comparable to those in other countries.

“In the track events, we will now be able to host to IAAF standards – the 100m, 200m, 400m, 100m hurdles, 110m hurdles, 400m hurdles, 4x100m relay, 4x400m relay, 800m, 1500m, 3000m, 3000m steeplechase, 5000m, 10,000m, decathlon, heptathlon, marathon, 10km walk, 20km walk and 50km walk. In the throwing events, we will be able to host to IAAF standards – discus, javelin, hammer throw and shot put. And in the jumping events, we will be able to host to IAAF standards – pole vault, high jump, long jump and triple jump,” Dr Anthony assured.

To ensure that Guyana

Manchester claim...

With regulation time ending nil-all and the extra period producing no goals, penalty kicks as well produced no result as both teams were unable to shake the back of the net.

However, it was Manchester that walked away with the game, with the first shot on target in the sudden death round decid-

ing the game, the title and the $300,000 first-place prize claimants.

Earlier in the evening’s action, Manchester and Unruly Gang won their semi-final encounters with 1-0 victories over East Bank Gunners and New Amsterdam Kings respectively.

In the third-place play-

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sports

attains the IAAF gold standards, the Government has also invested in IAAF certified equipment, which Dr Anthony believes will help to shape the growth and development of local athletes.

“With all of these investments, we are confident that we have created the right environment for all our athletes to train in the best environment, with the best equipment, and with great coaches. So it would only be a matter of time before they shatter the national and then the international records,” the Minister pointed out.

With the facility also boasting a FIFA certified football field in the centre of the track, Dr Anthony said it was Government’s intention to work with the Guyana Football Federation to ensure maximum use of the ground and the accompanying equipment.

“Much of the equipment that has been installed for football is among the best that is currently available on the market, and in keeping with FIFA standards and regulations. We hope that this would set a new gold standard of what people can expect in Guyana.

In addition, we have been in talks with the Guyana Rugby Union, and I am confident that they will also be able to utilise the field facilities,” Dr Anthony reiterated.

The facility sits on a 50acre plot of land, of which 22 acres so far have been developed. A whopping $1.084 billion was invested by Government on the project.

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off, New Amsterdam Kings prevailed over East Bank Gunners 1-nil as Stephen Boucher scored the lone goal of the game.

The result means that both Manchester and Unruly Gang will represent Berbice in the National Tournament set for May. Among those who witnessed the final were

Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste, Outdoor Events Manager Gavin Jodhan, Banks DIH Communications Manager Troy Peters and representatives of the Banks DIH Berbice Branch.

The tournament will now switch to the mining town of Linden for the final regional leg before the national championships begins.

Windies, England in position...

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West Indies have not beaten one of the top-eight sides at home since 2012 but need only look to their 2009 win over England for how an inspirational session can decide a series.

Even then, the long-term issue of subsidence would remain.

In the spotlight

Jonathan Trott has frequently had to shield his eyes from the glare since he departed England’s 201314 Ashes tour. He has been forced to contemplate life without international cricket and, by all accounts, is relaxed about what the future holds. His 50th Test appearance was an achievement in

itself but the difficulties he faces as opener were swiftly exposed; a successful counter to Jerome Taylor’s newball swing is required to extend his comeback.

Having spent the World Cup fronting up for West Indies’ inadequacies, it was clear Jason Holder has many virtuous character traits. His effort in helping to save the first Test, via a maiden hundred in any format, suggested we will have plenty of time to admire his on-field abilities as well. Batting may become his stronger suit but Holder has the dimensions of a formidable bowler and he could do with a few more wickets as West Indies’ third seamer. With Benn dropped

from the squad, the stage is set for Devendra Bishoo to make his Test return after a three-year hiatus.

Shannon Gabriel has also been recalled and alongside Carlos Brathwaite adds to West Indies’ options but they are set to stick with the same three-man pace attack.

West Indies (probable) 1 Kraigg Brathwaite, 2 Devon Smith, 3 Darren Bravo, 4 Marlon Samuels, 5 Shivnarine Chanderpaul, 6 Jermaine Blackwood, 7 Denesh Ramdin (capt/wk), 8 Jason Holder, 9 Jerome Taylor, 10 Kemar Roach, 11 Devendra Bishoo.

James Tredwell’s arm injury looks like limiting him to another one-off Test

appearance (five years after his first) as Moeen waits in the wings. Wherever he bats, it will strengthen the line-up. England’s preferred template would be to stick with four seamers but Adil Rashid remains with the squad if the pitch invites a gamble. Despite the quick turnaround, Liam Plunkett and Mark Wood are expected to stay on the sidelines.

England (probable): 1 Alastair Cook (capt), 2 Jonathan Trott, 3 Gary Ballance, 4 Ian Bell, 5 Joe Root, 6 Ben Stokes, 7 Moeen Ali, 8 Jos Buttler (wkt) 9 Chris Jordan, 10 Stuart Broad, 11 James Anderson. (Cricinfo)

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guyanatimesGY.com

tuesday, april 21, 2015

Enterprise O-40 outplay Guyana Media XI T

he Enterprise Busta Sports Club Over40 team turned in a clinical and efficient performance on Sunday to defeat the Guyana Media XI by 106 runs in a feature T20 match at the Enterprise Ground, East Coast Demerara.

Batting first after skipper Seemangal Yadram called correctly at the toss, the home team posted a challenging 193-5, with youth coach Latchman Yadram making 41 and Vishwanauth Gobin, who benefited from three chances, scoring 40.

L Yadram struck five fours in his top score, while Gobin found the boundary six times. The pair added some valuable runs for the third wicket after legspinner Shahrukh Imran removed Jitlall Jowahirlall

Members of the Enterprise Over-40 team pose with their trophies on Sunday (Avenash Ramzan photo)

by Enterprise, Rajesh Balram and Chatterpaul Singh picked up 3-1 and 3-17 respectively, while there were two wickets apiece for Nazir Khan Omar (2-20) and Nandalall Seebarran (2-5).

At the presentation ceremony which followed, L Yadram was named Best Batsman and Imran Best Bowler, while Enterprise Over-40 received a trophy for the victory.

Both captains – S Yadram and John Ramsingh

They also recognised the contribution of former national wicketkeeper/batsman Sheik Mohamed, who donated the three trophies through his business establishment Tiger Sports of Enmore Old Road, East Coast Demerara.

The match was played in memory of Chetram Budhai, a former member of the Enterprise Club. His son, Navin Budhai, a Guyana Media XI player and resident of Enterprise, was

Navin Budhai (left) presents the winner’s trophy to Enterprise Captain Seemangal Yadram

(11) and Khaleel Mohamed (0) in quick succession.

Rohan Mangal contributed a brisk 32 (5x4s), while S Yadram and Nandalall Seebarran chipped in with 18 (1x6) and 17 (3x4s) respectively in an unbroken sixth-wicket partnership that yielded 40 in the final three overs.

Imran was outstanding with the ball, picking up 3-12 from four parsimonious overs. He troubled the batsmen through his four overs on the trot, extracting appreciable bounce and turn from the surface.

Rene Stoby (1-33) and Ravi Persaud (1-38) claimed

the other two wickets to fall.

In reply, the Guyana Media XI never recovered from the early loss of guest player and former national wicketkeeper/batsman Sheik Mohamed for three, as they laboured to 87 all out in the final over.

Left-hander Rajiv Bisnauth, batting at number three, topscored with a fine 39, while Keon Blades hit a breezy 20 down the order, as five batsmen fell without scoring. Bisnauth struck five fours in his knock, while Blades hit a six and a four.

Persaud made 14.

Bowling in the predominantly spin attack employed

Shahrukh Imran (left) of the Guyana Media XI receives the Best Bowler prize from Jitlall Jowahirlall for his magical spell of 3-12

– hailed the atmosphere in which the game was played and the camaraderie displayed by the two teams.

given the honour of spinning the toss and presenting the winner’s trophy to Enterprise.

Richards expects big things from Holder

F

ormer West Indies batsman Sir Viv Richards expects big things from West Indies allrounder Jason Holder after scoring his maiden Test century for the West Indies on Friday against England.

Holder’s solid showing aided the Windies in securing a draw and Richards told the local media that the player is a special talent and one to watch for in the near future.

“I like this Jason Holder

Sir Viv Richards

Jason Holder

fellow, he’s going to be a magnificent cricketer,” Richards said.

“It was a marvellous effort from the West Indies. A lot of folks would have come

here today expecting them to crumble but they didn’t.”

Holder, who is the One Day International captain of the West Indies, scored 103 not out to help the team earn a draw from a position, which appeared seemed to favour England.

Holder, who will play for the Barbados Tridents this summer in the Caribbean Premier League, became the 81st West Indies player to score a Test century. (Digicel

SportsMax)

Draw has strengthened Windies resolve, says Smith

Devon Smith

O

pener Devon Smith says batting out the entire last day to save the first Test has further strengthened West Indies’ self-belief that they can compete against England in the on-going three Test series.

The Caribbean side were given little chance against an England unit ranked five places higher at number three, with incoming England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chairman Colin Graves even labelling them as “mediocre”.

Set 438 to win the first Test in Antigua last week, however, West Indies produced a sterling performance to pull off a draw, after starting the final day on 98 for two.

“The guys … are looking forward to the second Test. To bat a whole day and save a Test match is amazing,” Smith told reporters here Sunday.

“A lot of fans expected us to lose but having said that, the guys went out there and believed themselves and performed to the best of their ability and came up with a draw.

“Sometimes it’s good to be the underdogs because you have nothing to lose but something to prove. So we have no pressure on us, it’s England who has the pressure … they said in the press they would win the series 3-0.

“It motivates not just me but the whole team to go out there and prove them wrong in what they’ve said. You just have to go out there and perform to the best of our ability.”

Smith played a key role in the first Test result, scoring 65 in a critical 83-run second wicket stand with Darren Bravo (32) late on the penultimate day.

The 33-year-old lefthander, whose 37-Test career has been a chequered one, said he was now coming into his own and was more sorted mentally.

“I think sometimes before I used to put myself under unnecessary pressure wondering about getting dropped. Now it’s different, I just go out there and express myself,” Smith noted.

Once he is selected for the second Test which bowls off here Tuesday, Smith will become the first Grenadian to play a Test before his home crowd, an honour he is looking forward to.

“It will be a dream come through because I know my whole family will be here to support me and I hope they will be here even before the first ball is bowled. At least that will motivate me to go forward and do great things,” he said.

With only two Tests ever played at the Grenada National Stadium, there is some apprehension over what the pitch will serve up but Smith said that he believed it would be one where both bowlers and batsmen could thrive.

“I think it’s a good wicket to bat on. On the fourth and fifth day the ball may turn a little bit but having said that I think it is a great wicket to bat on as long as you apply yourself and concentrate on what you have to do, you’re going to get results,” he pointed out.

“You’ll have to work hard for your wickets … as long as you put something in you’re going to get some results. If you bowl well you will get wickets and if you bat good you will get runs.” (CMC)

guyanatimesGY.com

tuesday, april 21, 2015

Busta Soft Shoe tournament...

More games, more goals

Mark Campbell scores for Stevedore Housing Scheme

By Treiston Joseph

F

estival City was the highlight of Sunday night’s action in the Busta Soft Shoe Tournament at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) Ground as they whipped Leopold Street 8-2.

Led by doubles from Carl Lockhart (27th and 28th minute) and Eon Alleyne (29th and 30th minute), Festival City gave the word dominant new meaning while Leopold’s defence was comparable to Swiss cheese.

Solomon Austin, Stellon David, Dwayne Lawrence and Daniel Favourite scored a goal apiece in the first, third, 10th and 23rd minute respectively.

Leopold’s goals came from Jumane Somerset in the sixth minute and Andre Sookhoo in the 28th minute.

Meanwhile, in total contrast, Kitty Weavers sneaked by Tucville 1-0, with Sherwin Vincent scoring the game’s lone goal in the 26th minute.

Game three of the evening saw West Back Road topping Globe Yard 4-1 to easily gain points in their group.

Phillip Rowley led the way with a double in the fourth and 11th minutes, while Joel Tyrell and Jamal Haynes scored the other two goals in the fifth and 21st minutes. Globe Yard’s lone goal came from Ademi Hoyte in the 16th minute.

Stevedore Housing Scheme were able to top Cross Street 2-0 despite a number of defensive woes on their part, coupled with Cross Street misfiring on easy opportunities. Mark

Campbell scored both goals for Stevedore in the 14th and 23rd minutes.

Ballers topped Broad Street 4-2 in the fourth game of the night, with Steffon Ramsay leading the way with a hat-trick in the fifth, 25th and 27th minutes. Amos Ramsay was the other scorer in the 21st minute.

Miguel Cummings and Jamal Cozier provided Broad Street with their two goals in the 14th and 19th minute respectively.

In the final game of the evening, Bent Street trounced Albouystown 4-0 as Daniel Wilson scored a double in the 21stt and 24th minutes, while Konata Manning and Sheldon Holder scored the other goals in the 22nd and 26th minutes respectively.

Windies fight back no shock to Bell

I

an Bell says West Indies’ fightback in the first Test last week came as no surprise to the England side.

Starting the final day on 98 for two in pursuit of 438 for victory, West Indies slumped to 162 for five at lunch at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium in Antigua before recovering to reach 350 for seven at the close.

“I’m not surprised at all.

We knew the kind of cricket we were going to be playing – attrition, going to go five days,” said Bell who hit 143 in the first innings to rack up his 22nd Test hundred.

“I certainly didn’t turn up here expecting for them to roll over and this to be an easy series. You never expect that in any international cricket, let alone a Test team.

“I expected competition.

Last time I was here I sat on the sidelines but they were long five-day Test matches; it was hard to get 20 wickets and I expected exactly the same.”

England, under pressure to get a positive result in the

Ian Bell

series, face West Indies in the second Test which bowls off here Tuesday.

And with the pitch at the Grenada National Stadium expected to another flat one, Bell said it was important that England found new ways to bowl West Indies out twice.

“There’s talk of there being a bit more bounce here than in Antigua. West Indies swung the new ball nicely in both innings – so we have to use the new ball well and get a few wickets early – and we’re going to have to change our plans, get a lot of men in front of the bat,” the experienced right-hander said.

“Moeen (Ali) is back in the squad, which gives us options, but we’ll have to work out a formula in the next couple of days which helps us get 20 wickets.”

Moeen, an off-spinning all-rounder, was not named in the original tour party but arrived in the Caribbean to join the squad for the second Test.

Bell, meanwhile, is one of the squad’s senior players with over 7 000 runs, an average of 45, and 106 Tests.

He was named vice-captain for the series, a responsibility which he relishes.

“It’s nice to have that responsibility, officially as well,” he noted. (CMC)

23

Harbhajan supports Pollard’s mouthtaping gesture

M

umbai Indians off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has defended his teammate Kieron Pollard for plastering his mouth after being told to be quiet by the umpire, saying the bizarre gesture was unique but not in bad taste.

“The umpire told him to stay quiet, so he wanted to make sure to put the tape on his mouth and be quiet, but he is a bit of a character. He likes doing things like that.

“IPL brings the best flavours of the West Indies boys and there was something very different and unique which was in a good taste,” said Singh.

Pollard was warned by one of the on-field umpires to stay away from any banter after he was seen trying to unsettle Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) opener Chris Gayle’s rhythm by hurling a few words at him.

However, the Trinidad and Tobago all-rounder responded hilariously by plastering his mouth with tape, much to the amusement of spectators.

Gayle and Mumbai Indians players, as well as coaches Ricky Ponting and Anil Kumble sitting in the

Kieron Pollard taped his mouth during his game against RCB

dugout also saw the funny side of the gesture.

After the match, which his team won by 18 runs,

when Pollard was asked about his unique on-field behaviour, he said it was just for fun. (Digicel SportsMax)

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

tuesday, april 21, 2015

Windies, England in position to build on foundation ahead of 2nd Test

Marlon Samuels and Shivnarine Chanderpaul wait to bat during their net session ahead of second Test

E

nglish cricket would love a quick fix right now but Test matches – and series – are more of a planning permission and

scaffolding sort of job.

West Indies are perhaps more accepting of the need to have dust sheets all over the place as they renovate

the crumbling mansion of their game, though over the years they have fallen victim to cowboy contractors with an embarrassing regularity.

Both teams could step back and look at their handiwork in the Antigua draw and afford themselves a moment’s satisfaction.

England’s foundations, put into place against India last summer, still look fairly sturdy, even if some of the more fiddly work – lintels, underfloor heating, taking 20 wickets on a flat pitch - needs attending to.

West Indies, forever surviving in the most rickety of shacks, have got hold of a solid beam or two, not least in the individual performance of Jason Holder and a collective commitment to the cause.

There is no time to be standing around drinking tea and flicking through the newspaper, however. The second Test presents another big undertaking and neither Peter Moores nor Phil

Dr Anthony envisions synthetic track becoming Centre of Excellence

By Avenash Ramzan

S

port Minister, Dr Frank Anthony said it was the hope of the Administration that the recently-commissioned synthetic track and football facility at Leonora, West Coast Demerara, would become a Centre of Excellence with the passage of time.

He made the comment while addressing a large gathering on Friday last when the multimillion-dollar facility was commissioned by President Donald Ramotar.

“We envision that this facility will become the number one venue for track and field training in Guyana. In addition to working with the athletes themselves, we will also be working with the coaches and officials providing them with the opportu-

Simmons is in the mood for letting a deadline slip.

The suggestion, by incoming ECB chairman Colin Graves, that West Indies are a “mediocre” operation has pricked professional pride and England require victories to prove they are the better craftsmen, as billed.

England will be bolstered by the arrival of a skilled artisan, with Moeen Ali expected to go straight into the side.

His more attacking offspin might help them apply the finish in St George’s, where England will also be hoping for increased output from the openers and perhaps some more incisive work with the new ball.

Simmons will doubtless have his eye on a few areas for home improvement - and Sulieman Benn has already paid for failing to meet required standards if West Indies are to further enhance reputations at the expense of the tourists.

Devendra Bishoo bowls in the nets ahead of an expected Test return

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Guinness “Greatest of de Streets” Berbice leg...

Manchester claim inaugural title

T

A joyous Manchester team at the presentation ceremony

This beautiful piece of architecture greets persons as they enter the facility at Leonora

nities for them to upgrade their skills. We intend for this facility to become the Centre of Excellence in track

and field in Guyana and later in the larger Caribbean,” Dr Anthony stressed. turn to page 21

hrills and close calls were the result of the inaugural final of the Guinness “Greatest of the Streets” Berbice leg that concluded in the wee hours of Monday at the

New Amsterdam Stelling.

In front of the large crowd that congregated at the Stelling, both Manchester and Unruly Gang played with passion, often times draw-

ing gasps from the crowd after shots from both teams rattled the bars of the small goal or passed agonisingly close to the framework.

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