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Issue No. 3050

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Friday, November 25, 2016

Nothing secretive, criminal about the D’Urban Park Project – Granger Page 9

Corentyne carpenter’s murder

INTERPOL to assist in arrest of alleged mastermind Page 3

Promoted Police Officers to retain promotions – Harmon

PRICE

$80 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Jagdeo calls for 1 month taxfree bonus for public servants …says fiscal P7 space created with $8B transfer from GGMC

Page 9

Over 150 P10 affected by chicken pox outbreak in Paramakatoi Corentyne carpenter’s murder

7th person arraigned P8

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo (centre) and Business Minister Dominic Gaskin (left) pose with some of the recipients of awards of business excellence at the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony at the Pegasus Hotel on Thursday evening. (Marceano

Narine Photograph)

PSC calls on Govt to increase income tax threshold to $100,000 Page 5

AG’s mistruths jeopardise fragile Guyana economy

P7 Govt, Opposition to consider new GECOM Chairman soon

Page 5

…as Jagdeo warns nation now subject to more rigorous FATF/CFATF scrutiny

Son stabs P10 father to death at Aranaputa

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

news

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FRIDAY, november 25, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Friday, November 25 – 14:30h-16:00h, with a night retraction at 02:00h (Saturday morning) and Saturday, November 26 – 14:30h-16:00h, with a night retraction at 03:00h (Sunday morning).

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, November 25 – 14:05h-15:35h and Saturday, November 26 – 14:45h-16:15h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Light rain showers with sunny intervals can be expected throughout the day, while sunny weather is expected in the late afternoon. Clear skies can be expected in the evening, with temperatures ranging between 24 degrees and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-easterly between 3.12 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 01:33h and 13:55h reaching maximum heights of 2.28 metres and 2.39 metres respectively.

Low Tide: Low Tide: 07:36h and 19:53h reaching minimum heights of 0.89 metre and 0.82 metre respectively.

Wednesday, november 23, 2016

LOTTERY NUMBERS M 04 11 21 22 25 27 20 Bonus Ball

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Daily Millions

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T

he Public Infrastructure Ministry has been given the go-ahead to sole source up to $400 million in goods or services, even as millions are being utilised through the use of the Ministry’s Force Account Unit.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo made the disclosure on Thursday last as he questioned the timing of the move on the part of the Administration.

Jagdeo told media operatives present at a press conference held that the party’s Freedom House Headquarters that they are in receipt of information which suggests that the Public Infrastructure Ministry has written to, and received permission from the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) to utilise the sole sourcing method to the tune of $400 million.

This means that the Public Infrastructure Ministry will have received permission to sole source the value of $400 million in equipment or services, literally hours before the presentation of the 2017 Budget and days before all Government agencies are expected to close off their accounting books and return all unspent monies to the Consolidated Fund.

Sole sourcing, according to Jagdeo, is to be used in specific circumstances related to proprietary reasons and for instances where comparable materials cannot be sourced otherwise.

“What is this special thing

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

about sole sourcing equipment,” Jagdeo questioned, as he outlined that the permission granted by NPTAB will now give the public works authority to buy equipment without going to public tender.

Worrying situation

Jagdeo said the situation is worrying in light of the revelations coming out of the D’Urban Park Project and the Ministry’s involvement, coupled with the fact that the Force Account Unit of the Ministry of Public Works is being abused.

According to Jagdeo, the Force Account Unit is currently spending tens of millions of dollars on projects that are not being contracted out and subject to any supervision.

Speaking to the vagaries of the use of the Force Account Unit of that Ministry, Jagdeo recalled that during his tenure as President, the department

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had been asked to re-pave the driveway at State House.

Jagdeo said the department had come up with an enormous sum for the procurement of asphalt for the project, but when an audit of the measured works was done it was found that the material actually cost 80 per cent less.

“They came up with a figure for asphalt alone that was enormous in the millions and when I asked to see the measured work that figure fell by 80 per cent,” he said.

The former President now Opposition Leader pointed out that the Ministry’s Force Account Unit doesn’t have the kind of scrutiny that would obtain if the project is publicly tendered, “This Ministry has a proclivity towards using this method and we are aware of the abuse because individuals are speaking out,” he stated.

Procurement investigations

He used the occasion to remind that the Public Procurement Commission was set up and put in place where persons can lodge formal complaints and initiate investigations – an avenue Jagdeo is urging be used. “Individuals who are aggrieved can protest,” said Jagdeo, who used the occasion to also point out that public entities can also lodge formal complaints and initiate investigations.

The Opposition Leader said his Office was one such public entity that can lodge complaints and this was a cause

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson

that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) will be taking up.

“We will start to lodge protests with the Public Procurement Commission,” Jagdeo pledged.

He also used the occasion to warn the personnel responsible for adjudicating bid and the overall tendering system that Cabinet no longer has a role in the process.

“No Cabinet member should be calling any member of the procurement authority to ask to approve a contract,” Jagdeo said.

He cautioned that persons in the system found to be liable when the Procurement Commission investigates, can in fact be subject to penalties.

With the instalment of the Public Procurement Commission, the ‘no-objection’ role of Cabinet with regards the issuance of contracts is being phased out.

Corentyne carpenter murder

INTERPOL to assist in arrest of alleged mastermind

O

Thursday, November 24, 2016

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Infrastructure Ministry to sole source $400M in equipment – Jagdeo

ne day after the Police issued a wanted bulletin for Marcus Brian Bisram, the alleged mastermind in the murder of Corentyne carpenter Fayez Narinedatt, they have contacted Interpol to locate the suspect.

Chief Wendell Crime Blanhum, when contacted, related that they have started the process to publish a Red Notice for Bisram. He added that based on preliminary investigations, the suspect has left the country.

He noted that the Police

Wanted: Marcus Brian Bisram

would do everything in their powers to have the young man extradited to Guyana to assist in the investigations. The Police on Wednesday issued a wanted bulletin for Bisram, one day after six persons were charged with the carpenter’s murder. A seventh person was on Thursday arraigned with the murder. It was reported that Narinedatt was beaten unconscious by the suspects, placed in the trunk of a car and taken to the public road where he was run over by a car to stage the crime as a road accident and not a homicide. The want-

ed man reportedly made sexual advances to the now dead man, but was rejected. Out of embarrassment, Bisram allegedly instructed two villagers to “get rid” of the father of two.

The carpenter’s body was discovered about 03:45h at a scene which appeared to be that of a hit-and-run accident. From the inception, relatives of the dead man thought something was amiss. Several people were taken into custody and interrogated; two of them then confessed to the murder and implicated several others, including the businessman.

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friday, november 25, 2016

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Editorial

Importance of funding

T

he UN Women’s theme for International Day for the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls, which is being celebrated today is ‘Orange the World: Raise Money to End Violence Against Women and Girls’.

According to UN Women, when world leaders adopted the Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, they recognised that ending violence against women and girls was a prerequisite for the achievement of the development agenda. Goal 5 on gender equality includes a specific target to end all forms of violence against women, including trafficking, other forms of sexual violence and harmful practices.

Despite this, the body pointed out that the resources dedicated to addressing the issue still do not match the scale of the challenge; it also emphasised that allocating adequate resources to prevent and address violence against women is not only a legal obligation and a moral imperative, but a sound investment, too.

One in three women around the world experience violence in their lifetime, often in the hands of someone they know, love and trust. Of all women who were victims of homicide globally in 2012, almost half were killed by intimate partners or family members.

The term ‘violence against women’ means any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or in private life” (Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women, UN General Assembly, 1993).

Violence against women has been declared a global pandemic and human rights violation. In the male dominated world-view, the role of women in the family, home, relationship and society have been taken for granted and this taken-forgranted-ness has led to the perpetuation of violence in several forms. Such acts of discrimination impact the socioeconomic wellbeing of women and girls impeding progress in areas such as poverty eradication, HIV/AIDS, peace and security.

In her statement for International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 2016, UN Women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka highlighted effective interventions, and reiterated that the pandemic of violence against women and girls can end, but it will need commitment and investment nationally and internationally. Violence against women and girls, a gross human rights violation, devastates lives, causes untold pain, suffering and illness. It also incurs high economic costs. A recent study estimated that the cost of intimate-partner accounted for 5.2 per cent of the global economy.

Beyond the direct medical and judicial costs, violence against women takes a toll on household and national budgets through lost income and productivity. In Viet Nam, for example, expenditure and lost earnings resulting from domestic violence was estimated at 1.4 per cent of GDP in 2010. In the United Kingdom, the cost of domestic violence in 2009, including service-related costs, lost economic output and human and emotional costs, amounted to 16 billion pounds sterling. In Guyana, the Women and Gender Equality Commission, which joined with many other organisations to speak out on the occasion, also acknowledged that one of the major challenges to efforts to prevent and end violence against women and girls worldwide is financing. As a result, they pointed to the glaring reality that resources for initiatives to prevent and end violence against women and girls are severely lacking.

In their bid to reinforce the point that there is much more work to be done in Guyana to ensure that the Prevention of Discrimination Act and the Constitutional provisions on nondiscrimination and equality are enforced, they pointed to the overall economic impact of tackling the existing issues which can actually contribute to the prevention of violence against women and girls.

“Advancing women’s equality could potentially add $12 trillion to the world’s economy…and in emerging economies, women reinvest 90 cents of every additional dollar of income in their families’ education, health and nutrition compared to 40 cents for men. It is therefore important to see gender equality as a critical economic issue. It is imperative that 100% of the population is given ample opportunity to contribute skills and intellect to its development and growth,” the Women and Gender Equality Commission said in its statement.

Green all around: A calm morning in one of Guyana’s many mangroves (Dagron Tours photo)

UNC faces defeat for similar political mistakes like PPP

Dear Editor, In opinion surveys and conversations with supporters of de facto Indian political parties in Guyana and Trinidad, the inescapable conclusion is that the PPP and UNC made similar mistakes that cost them the national government. The beneficiaries of their unforgivable mistakes (perceived corruption, poor governance, arrogance, neglect of their base) were the de facto African parties (APNU in coalition with the Indian AFC and the PNM). Many traditional supporters of the UNC and PPP abandoned their natural party and voted for the PNM in Trinidad and AFC coalition in Guyana to punish their party for neglecting them.

Trinidad holds local government elections this Monday, and all indications are the UNC will be humiliated -- anger from Indian voters for the blunders the UNC made while in office. Its traditional supporters are unwilling to forgive it for neglecting them and will not come out to support the party in the local election similar to what happened last year September when many crossed over and voted PNM. The latest opinion survey I conducted shows an easy PNM (party of Africans) win over the opposition UNC (party of Indians).

There are 14 local gov-

ernments in Trinidad each with a different number of constituency seats or councillors fought under the firstpast-the-post system. Each government also has four appointed aldermen based on proportional representation of the percentage of votes obtained. A minimum threshold of 25 per cent votes is required to get an alderman. The UNC is not likely to get any alderman in four Boroughs while the PNM is not likely to get any alderman in one Borough or probably two. The PNM is likely to make gains in Indian-controlled Boroughs while the UNC will not win seats in African Boroughs; Indians are voting PNM while Africans are not voting UNC. Currently, the PNM controls eight governments and the UNC six as per the results of the last elections in 2013. In May 2010, PNM controlled 9 and UNC 5. The local election was overdue by a year in 2010. After Kamla Persad-Bissessar was elected as PM in May 2010 defeating Patrick Manning, she dissolved the local bodies and held elections in July that year winning a record 11 governments as against three for the PNM, a record low.

In 2013, the PNM, under Dr Keith Rowley'a leadership, successfully rebuilt the party. The PNM captured eight Boroughs then and is now on course to pick up one

from the UNC, the prized district of Siparia where Kamla is the sitting MP. The PNM is also on course to wrest seats from the UNC in its traditional strongholds that could see it tie the UNC in Indian Boroughs because of the large number of Indians who are crossing over to the PNM. The PNM is likely to pick up at least five seats that traditionally vote UNC. That would be a major defeat of the UNC. Many Indians are crossing over to the African party because the UNC neglected them when it controlled the central government similar to complaints about how the PPP neglected its base in Guyana thinking that supporters of other parties will vote for it. Ethnic politics don't operate like it -- PNC supporters stick to their party unwilling to vote for an Indian party.

The PNC has promised to decentralise power, toughen local areas and this idea has wide acceptance. But the UNC is not supportive of federal distribution of powers.

Like the PPP in Guyana, the UNC was unwilling to decentralise power to its supporters and now its supporters are without power. The UNC, like the PPP, wants to control and dominate its supporters as a means to keep them enslaved to the party.

As in Guyana, the UNC felt

it had the Indian votes in the bag and did not have to service Indians to get them to vote for their natural party.

Both Indian parties erred and paid a price -- loss of power. The UNC, like the PPP, abandoned the Indians to court the supporters of the other party. The Indians were not serviced, causing them to rebel. In the process, the Indian parties lost corn and husk. The Indians did not come out to vote in full strength in the general elections in Guyana in 2011 and 2015 or many crossed over and voted for the African-led coalition to teach their Indian party a lesson.

In Trinidad, the Indians stayed away from the poll in the local elections in 2013 and many did not come out in the general elections in 2015 or crossed over and voted for the PNM. In this Monday's election, the UNC will feel the brunt of the Indian anger with it.

The PNM has benefited similar from Indian anger similar to how the PNC and AFC have benefited in Guyana.

The PNM has promised to decentralise power; the UNC like the PPP in Guyana is opposed to decentralisation.

It seems like neither party wants to liberate their people from political enslavement.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Freddie’s name-dropping syndrome Dear Editor, Freddie Kissoon’s propensity for name-dropping in his gossip column probably has some people turning in their graves, because a lot of the libellous gossip Kissoon fabricates day after day are often sourced from people he cannot name because of safety or confidentiality factors, or he revives the spirits of wellknown characters to reveal posthumously all the secrets they imparted to him, thus

making him the fountain of all knowledge on every subject under the sun.

The latest famous ghosts of times past who Freddie’s fertile imagination have resurrected to construct another tale of conspiracy and give it a blanket of credibility, are persons who people in the know – confidantes of these people are dismissing Freddie’s usual glory-hunting, linking himself to famous and/or popular people

because, according to them, these men had no time with, nor were they familiar with Kissoon.

His strategy of creating an air of mystery to effect a nebulous credibility leaves no grounds for questioning the source or the credibility of the information he imparts. His promise to write his memoirs boggles the mind, because the only approximately two pages of information that Kissoon could

produce on himself would be his career as a book thief, investing himself with a doctorate that he did not qualify for, a failure in academia, and the scandalous rumours he spreads as a gossip-columnist. Oh yes, and his blackmailing people with threats of exposes’ (Sic!) in his gossip column to acquire things for his personal use and benefit.

Yours truly, Dave Martindale

5 AG’s mistruths jeopardise fragile Guyana economy news

friday, november 25, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

…as Jagdeo warns nation now subject to more rigorous FATF/CFATF scrutiny

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ttorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams has misled the Guyanese nation, more specifically the business community and local financial institutions, by insinuating that Guyana was free and clear with respect to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) regime.

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo said the false sense of security that Williams attempted to foist on the nation could in fact cause the country to repeat mistakes and jeopardise major sectors of the economy, specifically the economic sector.

Jagdeo gave the damning warning on Thursday, and said Williams had attempted to give the impression that Guyana was free and clear of the FATF/CFATF regimes since the country had successfully exited the third round of evaluations by the international commu-

nity with regard to Guyana’s Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) regime.

“This is not so” according to the Opposition Leader, who said that while Guyana has, in fact, concluded its third-round evaluation, it was now subjected to a fourth round of evaluation, which would entail more rigorous compliance measures, including the actual prosecution of money laundering offences.

“What will happen is under this review, they will be required to go after actual cases,” Jagdeo said.

He suggested that instead of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) obtaining a list of nine former Ministers from the Ministry of the Presidency to target, “they will have to go after people that engage in money laundering and if they don’t, they will fail and jeopardise the financial system”.

Jagdeo recalled too that

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams

Williams had hinted at mutual evaluations following the successful exit from the third round of evaluations, but that was a misnomer, since Guyana would not be evaluating FATF or CFATF, as it would be the other way around.

The former President said the fourth round of evaluations relates to technical compliance and not simply adhering to recommendations made and that will be difficult to attain.

“We still have a lot of work to do,” he said.

The Opposition Leader noted that Williams had said “we were free and clear…we were happy and good with the international community regarding money laundering issues”, but “this is not so”.

According to Jagdeo, “we may very well find that we are not compliant in applying this (AML/CFT) Act” when again evaluated.

He used the occasion to again bemoan the fact that the predicament that the country was in could have been avoided had A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC), while in Opposition, supported the amendments promulgated by the then Government.

“We could have avoided a lot of this had they supported us from the beginning when we made two attempts to pass recommendations that would have made us compliant.”

Speaking to the false sense of security that Williams attempted to finagle on the nation, Jagdeo pointed to recent statements by the Attorney General, which suggested that local financial institutions were now able to transact business without enhanced security measures in place, highlighting that that was “not true”.

He elaborated saying if one were to venture to a local bank, it would be observed that there was no change in the requirements for transacting business, including the opening of accounts or the sending and receiving of monies overseas.

Local financial institutions, including local banks, have not seen any dramatic

change in their relationship with correspondent international banks as a result of Williams’ pronouncements, Jagdeo said.

“We cannot play games with the future of the financial sector…A thriving economy is built on a solid, sound financial system and sector,” the Opposition Leader stressed.

He warned too that by looking to score cheap political points, the Attorney General ran the risk of jeopardising the local financial sector, and this was further compounded by the international trend towards “de-risking”.

This refers to international financial institutions and countries looking to distance themselves from non-compliant regimes. “If that happens and it snowballs out of control, I had spoken about us going back to Stone Age in terms of financial sector development and growth,” he said.

PSC calls on Govt to increase income tax threshold to $100,000

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he Private Sector Commission (PSC) has presented Government with a range of proposals which it says, if implemented, could boost the ailing economy.

Among the proposals is an increase in the income tax threshold to $100,000 per month.

The Commission floated its recommendations by way of a public statement on Thursday, saying there were several measures which could stimulate the economy and lead to balanced growth, as well as have a positive impact on Government revenue in the medium and long term.

The PSC observed that it was generally accepted that Guyana’s economy was not performing at its optimum level and that the slowdown began some two years ago.

According to the PSC, while the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth is expected to reach four per cent in 2016, this is attributed primarily to the increased production of gold, especially by two large-scale gold mining operations.

This, the Commission said, has masked the decline in performance of other economic sectors, but “this de-

cline is having far-reaching implications for the business sector”.

“One manifestation of this is the significant growth of non-performing loans in the commercial banking sector…The International Monetary Fund has reported that non-performing loans increased to 11.5 per cent at the end of December 2015 as compared to six per cent at the end of 2013. The challenge for Government, with the collaboration of the Private Sector, is to stimulate economic activity across all sectors,” the PSC said in its release.

Among the recommendations proffered were: a permanent reduction of the corporate income tax rate, over 10 years to 20 per cent; reduction of the personal income tax rate, over 10 years, to 20 per cent; concessions on income taxation for the creation of new employment in all value-added sectors; tax breaks for new tourism assets; tax breaks for companies which set up operations in depressed communities; concessions on export tax for businesses which export, and relief on outstanding loans for the rice industry, among other things It has also suggested a

compulsory VAT registration and enforcement of VAT collection on all businesses which currently do not collect this tax; implementation of all PS- supported infrastructure projects; urgent approval of a harbour finance model; speedy implementation of all Government projects to release Government spending; the commencement of the design and building of Lethem Road for completion over a five-year period, with the raising of capital on international markets with tolls being used over 25 years to repay loan; implementation of plans for an alternative East Bank road, the dredging of Demerara Harbour, the building of an alternative

Demerara Harbour Bridge and the facilitation of the process of ensuring reliable energy is provided at US 12 cents per KWH. The PSC is also calling for the appointment of an Economic Council for Guyana in addition to legislation to cater for a separate non-political council and internal audit departments in all government agencies.

The Private Sector umbrella body is also looking to have Government enact mergers and acquisitions legislation and to introduce bankruptcy protection legislation in addition to the finalising and tabling of the E-Transactions Bill.

With regard to future eco-

nomic performance, the PSC wants Government to set a GDP growth rate of eight per cent while keeping the inflation rate at about two per cent.

The PSC is also looking to have Government retain a system of zero-rating for selected goods for relief of lower income persons.

The Private Sector body said too it wanted Government to devise and implement a plan for the industrialisation of Guyana moving away from the traditional extractive and agricultural pillars of the economy.

The PSC also wants Government to reduce the purchase of Treasury Bills by 20 per cent from the prior year, in order to increase liquidity and reduce commercial banks’ interest rates.

It has also proposed the utilisation of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to commence the establishment of the Government’s proposed Sovereign Wealth Fund.

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Foundation

(Continued from Thursday)

BY JILLIAN MICHAELS

I

f you already have a bad case of thrush, again, back off on the sugar, eat more foods with natural probiotics like yogurt, drink a lot of water, and air out your boobs when you can – thrush thrives in moist environments.

If your baby has oral thrush (a sign is white cheesy-looking lesions in the mouth that look like curdled milk but don’t wipe away), your doctor or lactation consultant may recommend treatment, but often it goes away on its own in a couple of weeks.

Overzealous pump

Your breast pump’s level of suction may be up too high and/or the flanges or breast shields may be too small for your nipples. Have your lactation consultant help you to make sure you get this just right.

of the nursing session). Also nurse as often as possible.

I’m not going to lie – this one brought my sweet and exhausted Heidi to tears, so if you can’t do it, that’s okay!

But if you can, it will help.

As the amazing Dr William Sears, a well-known paediatrician and author of many classic parenting books has said, the three Bs of breastfeeding are the breast, the baby, and the brain.

Essentially, the baby needs to stimulate the breast more often to send signals to the brain to produce more m i l k .

Basic sup-

Low milk production

I know this one can bring a lot of anxiety; I have witnessed it firsthand, and it is one of the main reasons why women stop breastfeeding. As I mentioned, Heidi was simply unable to make enough milk to feed our enormous nine pound son. We had to supplement with formula, and he was happy and able to both breastfeed and be topped off with formula in a bottle. No stress, and no shame! Enough with the perfectionism around 100 percent breastfeeding! I’m telling you this personal tale so that you will not give up on your milk supply, no matter how modest or robust it turns out to be. Either way, it will all work itself out.

Nurse on demand!

guyanatimesgy.com

Nurse for as long as you can manage. Shoot for eight to 10 minutes, so the baby gets the nutritious foremilk (the milk at the beginning of the nursing session) and the hydrating hind milk (the more watery milk at the end

p l y and demand: Works in economics and the biology of breastfeeding.

Hydrate. Some say this tip is overrated. I say it can’t hurt. You don’t need to guzzle gallons, but be sure to prevent yourself from getting dehydrated, which can inhibit milk production.

Avoid alcohol. I know you have been tee totalling for months now.

I hate even mentioning this to you.

However, if you are having issues making enough milk, research has shown that after drinking one or two glasses of wine, women take longer to release their milk and produce less milk overall. So while you may have heard the old wives’ tales about beer enhancing milk production, research suggests the opposite. Be safe, and steer clear.

Consider herbs. Many herbs are touted as having near magical powers when it comes to enhancing breast milk production. Few have been scientifically tested and proven, but the following may help when taken in moderation while breastfeeding.

(That said, always talk with your doctor before using any herbal supplement.) Opt for: Asparagus racemosus, Chamomile, Fennel, Fenugreek seeds, Goat’s rue, Milk thistle, Motherwort, Red raspberry.

Stick to your healthy diet. An overall healthy diet will make a big difference, but the following foods can help boost milk production because they are believed to boost pituitary function and estrogen levels: Alfalfa, Almonds, Asparagus, Brewer’s yeast in supplement form (not in beer!), Carrots, Chickpeas or hummus, Coconut and/or olive oil, Flax, Garlic, Oats, Sesame seeds or tahini sauce, Spinach, Wild salmon.

And let me reiterate one final breastfeeding fact: Should you need to pump and bottle-feed, supplement with formula, or even feed with formula only, despite all the propaganda, the world won’t end. While there are many benefits to breastfeeding, if you are simply unable to do it or choose not to, your child will be fine.

My mom was unable to breastfeed me.

I love and adore her. We are and have always been utterly bonded. And I am also pretty darn healthy. So try to cut yourself some slack, will ya? (MSN)

(Continued from Thursday)

BY ELIZABETH PANTLEY

5. Pick your battles

If your mother-in-law insists your baby wear a hat on your walk to the park, go ahead and pop a hat on his head. This won’t have any long-term effects except maybe keeping the peace with your mother-in-law. But don’t capitulate on issues of safety or those important to you or your child. In those situations, you can counter with other options listed here.

If you’re accused of changing the subject, admit you are – and offer another muffin!

6. Be vague

If you know your position on a particular topic is opposite the other person’s, and you know any discussion would just lead to a heated battle, avoid confrontation altogether with an elusive response to any question or comment. For example: “We’re moving in that direction” or “Yes, we’ve

considered that.” Then change the subject.

7. Steer clear of the topic

If your best friend is pressuring you to, say, let your baby cry himself to sleep, but that goes against your belief and you know you wouldn’t ever do it, then don’t complain to her about your baby getting you up four times the night before. By bringing up the topic, you invite her to share her opinion!

If the other person brings up the topic, then diversion or distraction is definitely in order. “Hey, would you like a muffin? I just bought them and they’re incredible ... and how about a cup of coffee?

Now where did I put that bag ....” If she accuses you of changing the subject, admit you are – and offer another muffin.

8. Educate yourself

The more secure and confident you are in your parenting decisions, the easier it is to let other people’s comments slide by without concern. Knowledge is power, so protect yourself and your

sanity by reading up on your parenting choices – and rely on the facts that you know.

It will build your confidence that you’re doing your best for your family.

9. Educate the other person

If your “teacher” is imparting information you know to be outdated or outright wrong, you might choose to share some of what you’ve learned on the topic.

If done delicately, you may be able to open the other person’s mind.

Quote experts, or refer to a study, book or report you’ve read. The more complete the data you can cite, the more credible you’ll appear. For instance, if Grandma suggests you give your three-month-old a bowl of baby cereal before bed to help him sleep through the night, you can quote some of the information from a baby book or parenting program on the medical reasons why it’s best to wait. Remember that Grandma is basing her opinion on information that was considered valid when

she was raising her children, so a polite update on current scientific and medical thinking might help her understand your way of doing things.

You can also present your “advisor” with a book or article that has most influenced your parenting philosophy so she can weigh the issues for herself based on current thinking. Don’t throw the book at her – simply say, “I know the way I do things mystifies you, but I’ve read up on [insert issue in dispute here] and made my decisions based on what I believe to be good information. Here, see what you think of this.”

10. Ask for advice!

Your friendly counsellor is probably an expert on a few issues that are inconsequential or that you can agree on. Search out these points and encourage her to help you in these areas.

She’ll be happy she is helping you and that you’re actually listening, and you’ll be happy because you’ve found a way to avoid a showdown about topics that you know you don’t agree on. And you just might learn something useful.

(MSN)

NEWS

7

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt, Opposition to consider new GECOM Chairman soon

Jagdeo calls for 1 month taxfree bonus for public servants W … says fiscal space created with $8B transfer from GGMC

fectively been embarking on a course of destroying good industrial relations, since the Collective Bargaining Agreement process has effectively been abandoned.

Jagdeo recalled that when Government announced its one to 10 per cent salary increase for public servants, it was in violation of

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

O

pposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has called on Government to reinstate the one month tax-free bonus that was traditionally given to members of the Disciplined Services and for this to be further extended to all public service employees, including those working in the sugar belt.

Jagdeo made the clarion call on Thursday, when he met with members of the local media corps at his party’s Freedom House Headquarters, where he revealed that the measure called for is not beyond the reach of Government, since it recently and secretly transferred $8 billion from the accounts of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to the nation’s Consolidated Fund.

This, the Opposition Leader said, is enough money to have created the fiscal space to allow for the coalition A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government to reinstate the one-month tax-free bonus previously offered to the Disciple Services, namely the ranks of the Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Police Force, Guyana Fire Service and the Guyana Prison Service.

He said too that the onemonth tax-free bonus should also be extended to all public servants that would have been recently subjected to a unilateral salary increase of between one and 10 per cent.

The former President said the measure could be announced separately or during the presentation of the 2017 Budget on Monday.

Secret transfer

Lamenting that the transfer of the large sum of money – $8 billion – was done in secret, the Opposition Leader indicated that should the money be paid over to the public servants and Disciplined Services members, it would inherently mean more disposable income for spending at a time when the nation is still in a deep economic decline.

He is of the opinion that the move will also serve to boost economic activity in the country.

The Opposition Leader also used the occasion to lament the unilateral increase that was handed out last month to public servants, saying the Administration has ef-

refused to give to the Opposition the relevant documentation and information such as revenue projections and sectoral policies among other pertinent information.

Jagdeo said this was critical to any meaningful participation on the part of the Opposition since the Opposition is cognisant of the fact that the ‘wish list’ for all and sundry cannot be met in any given Budget.

The PPP/C, he said, did not want to enter into any such meetings with just their “two long hands”. Jagdeo did use the opportunity to wish the Finance Minister well and said it is the hope of the PPP/C that measures will be includ-

President David Granger

the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

He said, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) was adumbrating its position since there is the fiscal space available, coupled with the fact that public servants did not receive from Government what it had been promised.

Distant world

Taking a swipe at Head of State David Granger, the Opposition Leader said the President seems to be living in a “distant world as though only ideal things are happening now and everything bad happened under the PPP/C.” “Do it before the Budget or announce at it Budget time,” Jagdeo suggested since it will be “a major boost and will increase disposable income and bolster economic activities.”

Meanwhile, on the matter of the 2017 Budget to be presented on Monday by Finance Minister Winston Jordan, the Opposition Leader bemoaned the fact that his party was not a part of the preparatory consultations, by choice.

This obtained, according to Jagdeo, since the Government

Finance Minister Winston Jordan

ed in the 2017 Budget to address the problems plaguing society, including security and improved livelihoods.

“We will support any measure that does this and will meet any of those objectives,” Jagdeo said, reminding that the broad objectives expected have already been outlined by none other than President David Granger.

Jagdeo opined that for Minister Jordan to present anything that falls short of what the President had outlined, then it would effectively mean that the nation had been duped.

Jagdeo said the PPP/C is looking to the Budget to see concrete measures and financial allocations to give effect to the objectives that had been outlined by President Granger.

ith the imminent retirement of Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Dr Steve Surujbally, Government said it would soon begin consideration of a new Chairman.

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon said President David Granger has already received notices from the parliamentary Opposition that it was ready to commence the consideration and selection of a new Chairman of the election body. Once there was no objection to the names, the Head of State would move ahead with the selection process.

Dr Surujbally earlier this month had indicated his intention to demit office before the end of the year.

He is currently on vacation and is expected to demit office on November 30.

The GECOM Chair already wrote to the Government about his desire to resign and had recommended a raft of measures of reform.

He had told the media that he has been expressing his desire to demit office since 2006.

GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally

He has been at the helm of GECOM since 2001.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) had called for the resignation of Surujbally in wake of its strong belief that he supervised a rigged electoral process last year.

PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee had expressed concerns recently that since Dr Surujbally had proceeded on leave, meetings of GECOM have not been held to deal with substantive issues save for one meeting to address ad-

ministrative matters relating to the ongoing continuous registration.

“Letters have been written by members of GECOM to Dr Surujbally requesting the convening of GECOM meetings to discuss matters of strategic importance to the work of the Commission,” he stated.

When asked, Rohee said he was not in a position to disclose if the Party has deliberated on its nominees for the position of GECOM Chairman.

Nonetheless, PPP/ C-nominated GECOM Commissioners have already indicated their readiness to submit nominees for a new Chairman to President Granger.

Observer missions of the Commonwealth, the Carter Centre and Organisation of American States have long urged that a new mechanism be developed to select and appoint the Commission from a list of nonpolitical persons.

GECOM is the entity that is responsible for the administration and conduct of elections in Guyana.

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News

FRIday, november 25, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

IN THE COURTS

Corentyne carpenter's murder

7th person arraigned O

rlando Dickie also called “Rasta” of 3459 Stevedore Housing Scheme, North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, a security guard and minibus conductor, was on Thursday charged with the murder of Faiyaz Narinedatt, 26. This now brings the total to seven persons being charged.

He was charged together with four other men who were previously held and the alleged mastermind Marcus Bisram, who was absent. A wanted bulletin was Wednesday issued for Bisram, an overseas-based Guyanese.

The five men who appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts were not allowed to plead to the

Orlando Dickie also called “Rasta”

matter since it was indictable.

On Tuesday last, Radesh Motie, 39, Harripaul Parsram, 49, Nirone Yacoob, 37, and Diodat Datt, 18, were charged with the carpenter’s murder.

The charge stated that the murder occurred between October 31 and November 1, 2016 at No 70 Village, Corentyne.

The matter was transferred to the Springlands Magistrate’s Court for December 08.

Earlier this week, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum had said that the Guyana Police Force was seeking help from United States law enforcement in its bid to question the alleged mastermind in the killing of Narinedatt.

According to Chief Blanhum, the GPF has already contacted its overseas counterparts. The US-based Guyanese was implicated in the murder of Narinedatt, by the four suspects.

Meanwhile the two wom-

en who allegedly attempted to pervert the course of justice by way of bribery of a Police officer with $4 million, were remanded earlier this week.

Shermella Indarally, 45, of Lot 121 Section A, No 71 Village, Corentyne Coast, Berbice, and Marriam Lionel, 25, of Corentyne Coast, Berbice, a bank teller, were refused bail after the prosecution objected.

The women were ordered to return to court on September 28.

The body of Narinedatt was discovered at about 03:45h on November 1, along the Corentyne Highway at Number 70 Village at a scene which appeared to be that of a hitand-run accident.

Albouystown murder accused to be retried

C

ity Magistrate Judy Latchman on Wednesday ruled that Steve Allicock who was cleared of the 2009 murder of Wendell Tappin of Albouystown, be retried when he appeared before her at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Following the prosecution’s submission that the case be reopened, Latchman granted its request.

She told the Court that she did not find the submission to be unfair or contradictory and, as such, she deemed the case reopened.

Allicock along with his

Steve Allicock

uncle Randolph Allicock and father Leonard Allicock, were all charged with the murder of Tappin, who was killed on December 31, 2009.

Randolph Allicock was never brought before a judge

however; Leonard was acquitted of Tappin’s murder

by Justice Diana Insanally.

Following this, a wanted bulletin was issued for Steve who managed to evade police for five years but was captured and charged in 2015.

He was discharged of the murder,as such the Prosecution filed for the case to be reopened.

On the day of the killing, Tappin, of 88 James Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, reportedly had an altercation with the three when he was stabbed and chopped about his body.

He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Legitimacy...

T

...of housing development

hey say “a new broom sweeps clean”. But like all analogies it does have its limitations - after all, they also say “an old broom knows all the corners”!! The PPP’d placed housing at the top of their agenda. Their reasoning was simple. A person with a home, not only has pride of ownership and a tangible affirmation of his being “somebody”; he also has a reason to keep a stable job to pay the mortgage!

The PPP duly gave out at least 80,000+ houselots and introduced a raft of measures to assist the awardees to build their houses. Low interest rates by NBS, tax writeoffs for mortgage interests, steady economic growth ensuring jobs and income to service mortgage payments, etc. All of this ensured houses went up like mushrooms across Guyana - and helped to trigger a virtuous circle of heightened economic activity.

The PPP’s latest scheme was to build 1000 “turn-key” houses that was within the budget of the poorer family.

Only a couple of hundred were built before the government was changed. And here is where the new broom started to sweep all that had preceded into the garbage. The newly honoured, PNC warhorse and departing Georgetown Mayor Hamilton Green was placed in charge of the CHPA and he immediately scrapped the “turn key” project and the focus on single-family houses. He would be spending $50 billion to create duplexes, condos, and apartment buildings as the core of the PNC-led coalition’s housing drive.

Not surprisingly, former Minister of Housing Irfaan Ali called the proposal “cockeyed” and not reflective of Guyanese needs and opportunities. Your Eyewitness will be blunter: the plan is plain idiocy. In a country with one of the lowest population density on planet earth, why would you want to pack poor people into cages stacked on top of each other? Haven’t we learnt anything from the experience of the “projects” in Brooklyn and the Bronx from our relatives in NY? And if the “turn-key” houses were poorly built, with our skill level, what guarantee do we have on the duplexes they’re starting with??

But the mystery’s now been cleared. Junior Communities Minister Valerie Patterson, in extolling the performance of the PNC back in the day when it had promised to “Feed, Clothe and House” the nation, released some interesting facts. Said she: “It was under the PNC that communities such as Tucber, Tucville, Amelia’s Ward, North and South Ruimveldt, Festival City, Roxanne Burnham Gardens, Melanie Damishana, Stevedore Scheme, the WismarRockstone Housing Project, Dazzell Housing Scheme, and many other were developed.”

Did you notice the houses were only in the PNC’s strongholds?

The more things change...

...and the popular vote

Back in the 60s when Comrade Cheddi’s equivocation on the “communist question” placed his job on the line, the US and UK eased him out by supporting the PNC’s argument that the popular vote was a truer reflection of the “will of the people” than the “first-past-the-post” (FPTP) system. In the latter, whoever won the majority of constituencies won the election. But some constituencies had more voters than others and cumulatively, the number of seats won by the losing PNC was never reflected by its popular vote.

So the US twisted the UK’s arms and the latter changed our system to PR and the rest is history. A very sordid history if the truth be told! Well, they do say “payback’s a bi*ch”!! And it’s payback time in the USA! Turns out the establishment’s worst nightmare, Donald Trump, won the election even though Clinton received more than two million more votes than him!!

So are they going to change the “Electoral College”, which can work like the FPTP??

...of the high

The Police just burnt $147 million worth of marijuana at the Princes Street incinerator. Did they figure out the reason why all of Albouystown are smiling this morning?

Who said the Police aren’t humane?

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

news

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friday, november 25, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

Promoted Police Officers to Nothing secretive, criminal retain promotions – Harmon about the D’Urban Park Project – Granger

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon

T

he Police Officers who were promoted by Acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine in the absence of Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud will not be stripped of their positions. Minister of State Joseph Harmon made this disclosure as he addressed the media on Thursday.

Late last month, Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud raised concerns over some promotions of senior ranks, a move that was made by Acting Commissioner David Ramnarine, while Persaud was on leave.

“Yes, in fact the Minister did advise cabinet that he did advise the Commissioner

of Police and I think he produced his legal opinion that those officers that were promoted by Mr Ramnarine were to remain promoted.

That their promotion should not be recalled,” Harmon stated.

Upon his return, and learning of the promotions, the Police Commissioner had asked that the promotions be annulled. However, this was not done.

The Top Cop had claimed that his temporary replacement was not authorised to

Acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine

make any such promotions.

The matter has since spilled into the public domain and according to President Granger recently, the Public Security Minister

P

Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud

had been tasked with investigating the matter.

He said that when the Assistant Commissioner is acting in that capacity, it is expected that it is done in an affirmative and not passive manner.

“Although there is a structure, there is also a convention that persons who are acting have to do their work in an affirmative manner and not in a passive manner,” said President Granger.

He nonetheless opined that the matter is not insurmountable and while it is cause for concern, it is in fact nothing more than a “storm in a teacup”, adding “I don’t believe the problems are unsolvable.”

resident David Granger on Thursday said Homestretch Development Incorporated (HDI) was established solely to facilitate completion of the D’Urban Park Development Project in time for Guyana’s 50th Independence anniversary celebration in the absence of budgetary allocations, following the May 2015 elections.

The Head of State admitted that while this may have been an unusual course of action, it was expedient at the time and Guyanese now have a valuable asset, which is a source of national pride, and added that the company is no secret and the National Assembly had been notified.

The President stated during the recording of The Public Interest that there was nothing secretive nor criminal about the D’Urban Park Development Project, when asked to respond to the Opposition’s claim that the Government had not been forthcoming with information regarding the D’Urban Park Development Project,

the creation and registration of HDI, which collected funds for the Project, or Minister of Education, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine’s role as a director of the company.

“When we went into office, budgetary provisions were not made for the construction of that stadium in time for Independence celebrations in May 2016 and it was felt prudent to establish a special purpose company… when we realised that we had to engage in contracts and agreements with construction firms to build the stands and everything else that was involved in the stadium and as soon as we could, we terminated the work of that company and [transferred the project to] the Ministry of Public Infrastructure with the sole responsibility to compete the Project,” President Granger said.

He added that when his administration acceded to office in May 2015 some ad hoc measures had been put in place for the rehabilitation of the Independence

Monument, which had been neglected for several decades, and to host the Inauguration Parade at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara. However, since no budgetary allocations had been made for the construction of a stadium, it soon became clear that it was necessary to establish a short-term company to complete the project on schedule.

Necessity

“It was decided that a special purpose company called Homestretch Development Incorporated would be used to continue the preparations, which had been started, until the Government had passed the Budget and put other infrastructural institutions in place and when that came to an end the responsibility for HDI, that is, particularly with regard to D’Urban Park, transferred to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure so there is nothing secret, or there is nothing criminal about HDI,” the Head of State informed. turn to page 15

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guyanatimesgy.com

friday, november 25, 2016

News

Over 150 affected by chicken 2nd suspect in Rohee’s pox outbreak in Paramakatoi home invasion surrenders

M

A person infected with chicken pox

ore than 150 students at the Paramakatoi Secondary School are now infected with the chicken pox virus since it was first identified in the school.

Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton on Thursday stated that the Ministry learnt of the outbreak a week ago and since then the number of cases have climbed to 160 within the dormitory.

“As of this morning, there are 160 accumulated affected cases; however, the exact male to female ratio is unknown. The medical and environmental teams are working to prevent the spread of the virus and treat all infected children,” he told the media in a press conference.

The Minister assured that the Public Health Ministry has secured the necessary pharmaceuticals to treat the outbreak, while efforts are being made to get the varicella vaccine, which was introduced into the country in March 2015.

Chicken pox is a disease

that is caused by the varicella zoster virus, which causes patients to develop a blister-like rash or boils that first appear on the face or trunk and then spread throughout the body even inside the mouth, eyelids or genital area.

The virus spreads mainly through tiny droplets from infected people that get into the air after they breathe, talk, cough or sneeze.

Norton said that they were working in collaboration with the Education Ministry to contain the virus and so they arrived at a decision for all classes to be suspended until the area was safe.

He indicated that the infected children were quarantined in a separate part of the dormitory and those who were not infected were sent to another part of the dormitory. So far, he said the Ministry had a team on ground and they would be vaccinating persons who were not infected or who have never had the virus.

The best way to prevent getting the virus is to get the

chicken pox vaccine. Children, adolescents and adults should get two doses of the vaccine.

The chicken pox vaccine is very safe and effective at preventing the disease, the Ministry said. Most people who get the vaccine will not get chicken pox.

According to Adolescent Health Coordinator, Dr Oneka Scott, the vaccine is not part of the Ministry’s regular immunisation schedule but was introduced for the vulnerable populations – persons in places such as dorms and orphanages, healthcare workers, port health officers and sanitary workers.

“While it is not deadly, it is worrying because our children are sick,” Dr Norton said.

It was reported that there are about 200 to 300 children living in the dorms. “While we don’t have all the information at hand, we are putting the pieces together. All we know is that we are dealing with two schools,” said Dr Scott.

She reiterated that the vaccines would be given to children and anyone else at risk of exposure, which would include teachers, healthcare workers and community members. She stated that the uninfected children would be given preventative medication with acyclovir tablets.

The Ministry has indicated that health education sessions about the disease to aid in prevention of its spread are being conducted by healthcare personnel and the environmental officers dispatched to the area.

O

ne week after Corlette Parks, 49, of Lot 4692 Postal Housing Scheme, Georgetown, was charged in connection with the invasion and robbery at the home of former Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee, a second suspect surrendered to the Police on Thursday.

Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum told Guyana Times that the suspect turned up with his lawyer at the Brickdam Police Station.

He is presently in custody and is assisting with the investigation. On Friday last, Parks was remanded to prison on a robbery charge and will make her next court appearance on January 11.

It was reported that Parks rented her motorcar to the three suspects who carried out the brazen daylight robbery on November 9 at Eccles, East Bank Demerara.

The robbery reportedly

Former Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee

occurred just about 12:00h, after two gunmen gained entry via an open door on the lower flat and tied up the two maids.

The men ransacked the house and carted off an undisclosed sum of cash and a quantity of jewellery in a waiting car. The maids subsequently managed to untie themselves and raised an alarm.

Rohee subsequently related that he was not at home at the time of the robbery but his two domestic helpers were, and would have left the backdoor ajar through which the men gained entry. They were carrying guns and a knife.

After confronting the two women, the bandits held them at gunpoint and ordered them into the upper flat of the building, where they were gagged and bound with duct tape.

The men, Rohee had stated, ransacked the home and found a quantity of jewellery belonging to himself and his wife and an undisclosed sum of money, before escaping in a waiting car.

Hours after the robbery, that vehicle was found abandoned. Further investigations by Police led to Parks, who is the owner. She reportedly rented the car to the three men who committed the robbery. Investigations are continuing.

Son stabs father to death at Aranaputa

A

man was stabbed to death by his son during a row on Wednesday evening at Aranaputa, North Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo). The dead man has been identified as Danielston Stephens, 50, of Aranaputa.

Reports reaching Guyana Times revealed that the now

dead man was imbibing with some friends at a neighbour’s house after which he went home at about 19:30h.

Upon arriving at home, an argument ensued between the man and his son.

The argument led to an altercation during which, the younger Stephens collected a knife and dealt his father several stabs to this body. The man reportedly

collapsed and was rushed to the Annai Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

His 31-year-old son was taken into Police custody and the alleged murder weapon was retrieved.

He is expected to be charged shortly. His father’s body is at Lethem Hospital Mortuary awaiting a postmortem examination.

news

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friday, november 25, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

Teenager stabs man to death at Barima

A The end of sugar: the farce?

L

ast week we spoke of the tragedy at the end of African slavery and the beginning of Indentureship (Portuguese, WI African, African, Indian and Chinese) to facilitate the survival of the sugar industry to generate profits for the planters. We alluded to Marx's aphorism that history repeats itself as a "farce", in light of the remarkably similar number of challenges and responses in the present.

With sugar, Europe decided to introduce monoculture agriculture in the West Indies and ruled that it was salutary to enslave Africans to meet the demands of that inaugural "industry". As explained last week, as their economic circumstances changed Europe decided that the "primitive accumulation" from chattel slave labour be transitioned to "free labour" - for increased profits, of course.

In the West Indies, however, because of the aforementioned "demands", bonded or "indentured" labour was now legalized as a way station.

The arguments are eerily being echoed today. The "preferential prices" for sugar the local planters received would be lost because of the removal of preferential tariffs.

Labour costs would be too high because the workers (newly freed Africans) didn't appreciate the workings of the newly created "market economy" that depended on the "invisible hand" of demand and supply. The factories and field practices that had to be retooled demanded capital infusions that had to come from lower wages from the workers (the new indentured servitude).

The descendants of the freed Africans are still grappling with the post-emancipation structural conditions imposed to herd them back onto the plantations. And the farce is that the APNU/AFC coalition government are using the same "economic argument" to deal with the present day challenges. Way back in 1999, we had critiqued the 1998 GuySuCo Strategic Plan, and advised that its operations should be consolidated and not expanded.

One reason was because we predicted the new 20th Century European "preferential prices" - contracted to last "in perpetuity" - would once again be jettisoned with their new economic circumstances - consequent to the intensified globalisation that was inaugurated with their colonisation of these same islands. We still remember debating Ian Mc Donald of GuySuCo on this point and his (poignant) refusal to believe Europe would be so cavalier and callous to do that.

The eventual 36% cut in prices was announced in 2005.

Accepting the received "economic" wisdom, the government decided to follow its Plan to increase sugar production in Berbice and bring down its overall high costs (US.24 cents/lb) through mechanisation and efficiencies of scale, down to US.12cents/lb.

The second and more personal reason for our disagreement was the degrading and inhuman social relations imposed by the labour intensive nature of sugar production in Guyana. Mechanisation, we felt, would only go so far, since with our unique system of canals for drainage and irrigation, it would inevitably lead to soil compaction that would hinder ratooning and thus raise costs.

And it was for these reasons we proposed, that starting with the Demerara plantations, which were always the highest cost producers, they should be diversified from sugar. And the lands distributed to the workers to become independent farmers of crops that would be supplied to privately owned factories for processing. Ultimately if these new products were more profitable than sugar, this would be the model that could be used to move the entire industry away from monoculture plantation agriculture.

Up to now, the APNU/AFC Government has handled the increased travails of the sugar industry very badly.

After deploying a Commission of Inquiry (CoI)l it seems to have placed its report in cold storage and initiated ad hoc moves that have bemused sugar workers and befuddled the Guyanese public. From its actions at Wales - which has the largest number of private cane farmers (including the largest bloc of African Guyanese cane farmers) and most ethnically diverse work force - they seem determined to repeat the actions of the sugar planters in 1834: Which is to accept the view of workers as "capital" that can be deployed or destroyed at will in the thrust to generate profits with no consideration for the development of their own human potential. This is the farce.

lthough the Guyana Police Force has announced a 40 per cent decrease in serious crimes in F Division (Interior Locations) thus far for 2016, another murder was recorded on Wednesday evening.

This time, a teenager was accused of stabbing a man during a drinking spree at Ela Landing, North West District (NWD), Region One

(Barima-Waini).

The dead man was identified was Junior Moses, 44, a farmer of Barima, NWD. The stabbing incident occurred about 18:40h.

Investigations revealed that Moses and the suspect, a 17-year-old, were consuming alcohol when an argument erupted.

It was during the argument, the teenager armed

himself with a knife and stabbed Moses once to his abdomen and made good his escape. Moses was taken to the Mabaruma Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His body is presently at the hospital’s mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem.

However, the matter was reported and the teenager was subsequently arrested. He is being questioned by the

Police and is expected to be arraigned for murder.

Only on Tuesday, F Division Commander, Senior Superintendent Ravindradat Budhram highlighted that out of the 19 murders that were committed for the year thus far, 15 of them were solved. He also pointed out that a total of 33 illegal firearms were seized compared to 16 in 2015.

Chief Magistrate darts to safety as accused storms into courtroom

C

hief Magistrate Ann McLennan on Thursday afternoon darted for safety into her chambers as one of the accused Leroy Williams in the Kaieteur News grenade attack broke loose of his handcuffs and stormed into the courtroom.

The Chief Magistrate had just adjourned the matter along with his coaccused Jameel Howard and Alfie Garraway who were all escorted through the chute, except Garraway, who was on high court bail, before the

Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan

scare. The three accused and another man who is

still at large are charged for conspiring together with others to cause an explosion by way of grenade, likely to endanger lives and cause damage to property.

As the court was still in session, a loud rumbling was heard and moments later Williams bolted through the Chute’s entrance with loosed handcuff, almost knocking to the ground a Police officer.

Many were terrified and ran to escape the courtroom, including the staff.

Williams shouted inces-

santly that he is tired of being locked up and he wants to be free. “I want be free today… me aint going back on no remand”, he stated.

A number of Police ranks from Police outpost in the court became aware of the situation when they saw the media and the public rushing out of the courtroom.

The man was subdued, detained and seen smoking in the Police holding cell.

According to the Police the man has a number of matters in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2016

News

Decomposed body found Digicel Guyana launches in Corentyne house Christmas promotion

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The deceased, Roopnarine Harrynarine

T

The abandoned house where the discovery was made

he partly decomposed body of a Corentyne man was on Tuesday discovered in an abandoned house at Hackney Village, Region 6 (East Berbice-Corentyne) The man has been identified as Roopnarine Harrynarine, 43, of Kilcoy, Corentyne. His body was discovered hanging

by the neck with a bed sheet attached to a rafter in a bedroom. He had been missing since Sunday.

The fisher is said to have been in the habit of going on drinking sprees which would last for months, during which would be periods of sobriety.

During such times he would work at sea. He lived with ei-

ther of two sisters.

The father of two and his wife separated 15 years ago and, according to reports, he has been on that drinking spree ever since. The advanced stage of decomposition has forced Police to allow the fisher’s family to bury him without an autopsy.

Anna Regina man succumbs after consuming poison

M

ohamed Zabam, 66, of Anna Regina Housing Scheme, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) succumbed after he drank a quantity of poisonous substance. Zabam was rushed to the Suddie Public Hospital by relatives almost four days ago.

The deceased was among three men who were exposed

to various poisonous substances, in three separate instances earlier this week.

According to information reaching Guyana Times, Zabam was a habitual drinker and would usually roam the area. He battled for life for almost two days.

Meanwhile the two other poison victims, who were hospitalised, reportedly took

self-discharge.

A 29-year-old from Huist Diren on the Essequibo Coast was hospitalised after he reportedly inhaled pesticide while spraying his rice field. Meanwhile, a 21-yearold labourer from Pomona Housing Scheme who attempted to end his life due to relationship problems also took self-discharge.

igicel Guyana on Thursday launched its Christmas promotion titled #GetGifted - in Guyana” at its Flagship store at Giftland Mall, Liliendaal, Georgetown. #GetGifted is built on the premise that the Christmas holidays is said to be the happiest time of the year - all about great gifts, quality family time, joy and happiness – well not quite. The flipside is the hustle and bustle to find the right gifts for loved-ones and friends, which at times turn out to be bad gift choices – and that is something many Guyanese relate to.

With the launch of Digicel’s #GetGifted handset promotion, customers can gift themselves or their loved-ones, that perfect cell phone for the holidays. There is a range of over 20 handsets to choose from, and customers can get up to 50% off on selected handsets.

Some of the handsets include the popular Samsung S7, Samsung S7 Edge, Samsung J10, the Digicel range DL1 Plus and D1 LITE, as well as the Alcatel, Huawei and Azumi brands.

The #GetGifted Christmas promotion has handsets and prices to suit every lifestyle and pocket. Customers can find a phone that matches their lifestyle and personality at a price that suits their budget. #GetGifted will keep customers on the go and connected to Digicel’s superior network this Christmas, as with every smartphone purchased, you will receive a Value Bundle of a one-week 4G Data Plan with over 900MBs, inclusive of 30

A student of the Gifted Hands Special Needs School receives gifts from Santa Claus

minutes Talk and 30 Text Messages to any local number absolutely FREE. Customers will also be able to rollover their unused data, talk and text once they renew their Value Bundle Plan. The campaign comes on the heels of a tongue-in-cheek Christmas song, “Gifted,” which was released by the company’s Chief Speed Officer, Usain Bolt, on his social media pages. The heavily auto-tuned song immediately became a viral hit, racking up over 6.5 million views just days after its release. However, through a partnership with Samsung, the campaign will see Digicel leveraging across digital and mobile platforms ensuring that customers are gifted with everything they need – including better deals on the amazing Samsung Galaxy S7 and better connectivity from the most reliable network in the region.

Meanwhile, #GetGifted is giving back to children across the region with its Gifted Kids initiative. During the

launch on Thursday students of the ‘Gifted Hands Special Needs School, were treated to gifts from Santa Claus of ice cream and goodies. This initiative will be spread across the Caribbean and Central America in all of Digicel’s 32 markets. Through the Gifted Kids – Christmas Cheers, Digicel’s employees will bring the love and joy of the festive season to kids by feting and treating them to toys and a host of entertaining activities. Digicel will be taking its #Gifted Kids - Christmas Cheers across Guyana by visiting Linden, Berbice, Essequibo and Georgetown.

“This holiday, it’s all about playing with the notion of being gifted – from being gifted by Usain Bolt’s Christmas song to gifting our customers with better products and services or gifting kids with the most memorable Christmas – we know what our customers want and that’s what we are giving them,” said Jacqueline James, Head of Marketing.

friday, November 25, 2016

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15

News

WPO calls on Health Ministry shies away from Administration to urgently molecular diagnostic Zika testing implement anticrime plan

T

he Women’s P r o g r e s s i v e Organisation (WPO) has added its voice to all those organisations and individuals who are engaged in various activities to highlight November 25 as International Day for the Elimination of all forms of Violence against Women, as proclaimed by the United Nations.

The WPO, in press statement on the occasion said, “It is necessary at this time to remind ourselves of the reason why this day was internationalised by the women in The Dominican Republic who campaigned vigorously against the Trujillo tyranny in 1960.

The dictatorship was averse to any kind of criticisms against the acts perpetrated by the then President.

The three Mirabel sisters were among some of his critics and to make matters worse, he was outraged that one of the sisters spurned his sexual advances. He responded by murdering the three sisters,” the release outlined.

The campaign waged

by the women in The Dominican Republic eventually won recognition when hundreds of thousands of women in Latin America and the Caribbean provided support which eventually saw the UN proclaiming this day in 1999, the missive outlined.

The WPO, while supporting the various activities to mark the occasion, used the occasion to focus on the violence which is perpetrated in our country on a daily basis by bandits.

“We deem this violence against unsuspecting citizens who are pounced on while their valuables are stolen; some who have their homes broken into, some whose life’s saving are taken while they bargain for their lives is unacceptable.

It is an affront to the people of Guyana when statements and actions by those in power give credence and cover to the bandits who believe that they can act with impunity because they have godfathers to protect them.

When prisoners are released without the population knowing who they are

and what crimes they committed, when Community Policing Groups are deemed illegal and when private citizens are threatened that their guns will be taken away against increased criminal activities are signs that perpetuate criminality,” the missive read.

The WPO will be observing this day with activities in Corentyne, West Coast Berbice; and on the East Bank and East Coast of Demerara, where the President, General Secretary and other leading members will be addressing issues of family violence in all its forms.

“We call on the Minister of Public Security and the President of the Republic of Guyana to immediately take steps and implement their anticrime plan which they promised the Guyanese people in their election manifesto to solve the crime problem. Based on the statistics that are available, crime is more on the increase and it is clear that the Government is clueless,” the Organisation stated.

Nothing secretive, criminal... from page 9

The President said that the company has only existed for six months and he regards it as a transitional company that enabled the administration to complete the Project. He said that he is grateful to the company and the contributions made by citizens, who helped the Government to reach its deadline and Guyanese are now proud owners of a valuable asset: “I think a lot of Guyanese are proud of the asset which we now possess.

It belongs to the Guyanese people.”

With regards to Dr Roopnaraine’s role as a member of the board, the President explained that it was only to represent the Government’s interest, “because the celebrations, which we had aimed at, at the time of the establishment of the company, concerned largely the 50th anniversary celebrations.”

Similar questions were posed to Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, during his post-Cabinet Press Briefing on Thursday. He noted that while several of those questions had already been posed and answered by Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson in a debate in the National Assembly at its last sitting on Tuesday, November 22, 2016, it is important to note that the D’Urban Park project has its genesis in the efforts of private citizens, who took a

decision to support efforts aimed at converting an area that was essentially ‘a jungle’ into a public space.

A source of funding

Minister Harmon said that the company was established long after works started by public-spirited citizens for the public good and it became necessary to establish it to source funding after their efforts had been exhausted.

In giving a brief history of the events that led up to the establishment of the company, he noted that after 50 years of Independence the Government was still hard-pressed to find accommodations for 50,000 people.

The extraordinary turnout of persons for President Granger’s inauguration ceremony at the Guyana National Stadium in Providence, which accommodates about 17,000 and left several hundred assembling along the roadways, brought that into stark focus.

As such he said when Government took the decision to transform D’Urban Park into a public space it accommodated the public’s spirit of nationalism, which had been birthed on President Granger’s accession to office, which saw persons contributing to national life.

“The time when the company was established did

not coincide with the time the work started because it started as private citizens coming forward and giving of their time and of their resources… It really was about private citizens coming forward to cleanup a public place for a public good. I want to make this distinction between what happened there at D’Urban Park and what happened in the previous administration.

The previous administration, they were using public assets for the benefit of a private few. I need to make that very clear… that this was private citizens contributing to a public good as opposed to taking public asset and converting it to private… benefit,” he said.

Amidst heated debates in the National Assembly, Minister Patterson has repeatedly made disclosures about the company, previous managers of the Project, contractors and payments and has made it clear that, “there is nothing to hide in the books of the Ministry” with regard to the company and the execution of the project.

Since its completion D’Urban Park has hosted a number of national, cultural and religious events and is often used as a recreational, sport and exercise venue by residents of South Georgetown and others, who visit the area.

A

lthough the Woodlands Hospital has entered into partnership with Co-diagnostics, a US molecular diagnostics company, to commence Zika virus testing, Public Health Minister Dr George Norton said the ministry has no interest in that type of testing.

Norton stated that the ministry had met with the US company and it had pitched its “cutting edge” services of molecular testing for zika, however, the ministry has “no intention of jumping into anything that has not been proven or tested.”

He explained that that method of testing is not established in the United States of America or any of the countries in the Americas.

Co-diagnostics is at the forefront of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology, creating a new class of molecular diagnostics, providing fast, reliable, accurate and affordable PCR testing, causing clients to save thousands of dollars. It has made a giant leap forward in DNA test design by making PCR more accurate, faster to develop and much less expensive to administer.

Among its wide line of specialised testing is the detection of the Zika virus. Codiagnostics own the most

modern-patented technology that tests for Zika and other mosquito-borne diseases. The molecular diagnostic test can also test where there is a mutation of mosquitoes that can possibly be infected with Zika.

In October managing director of the Woodlands Hospital had stated that the institution is moving from the rapid testing for the zika virus since research has shown that many of the devices used for the test have yielded false positive results in the past. But with this novel method of testing, patients will be able to receive their results in less than an hour. It was reported that many doctors were referring their sick patients from different hospitals to the Woodlands to test for the virus.

The zika virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of an

infected Aedes mosquito, which is the same mosquito that spreads dengue and Chikungunya viruses. These mosquitoes typically lay eggs in and near standing water in receptacles like buckets, bowls, animal dishes, flower pots and vases. They prefer to bite people, and live indoors and outdoors near people. According to the hospital and US company, the technician would use a saliva or blood sample to test for the virus presence, which could easily distinguish between the virus and its cousin viruses.

Nevertheless, Norton stated that this testing is not recognised in the Americas and it is only now trying to sell it in India.

“This is something we will definitely not rush into because we have a budget for health and we don’t want to use it on anything that might not give any results,” the minister stated.

16

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

guyanatimesgy.com

G

uyana Fashion Week came to a spectacular close after one week of continuous activities, all designed to upgrade the status and scope of the burgeoning fashion industry in Guyana Over the last weekend, Guyana witnessed three amazing fashion showcases at the Savannah Suite, Pegasus Hotel Guyana. The shows featured designer collections from local, regional and international clothing brands.

The first runway presentation highlighted a select group of aspiring designers together with a line-up of up-and-coming models, in a production called ‘The new guard’. Winners of the male and female model category, respectively, were Kenny Hercules and Candacy Subrattie. The winner of the aspiring designer award was Linden native, Setra Oselmo with a highly creative showing utilising hair to create spectacular costume art.

The other seven aspiring designers brought interesting storylines to impact on their collections, rendering unique Guyanese style in their creative showings. Candacy Mc Clean, Abeni Sullivan, Tandica Favourite, Stephen Validum, Mark Junor, Audrey Callendar, Shevaun Abel shared the spotlight on that Saturday afternoon showcase of fresh new world style.

Walter Greene, a USbased, Guyanese style connoisseur and fashion editor par excellence commented on the cutting-edge, pushing the envelope contributions of our creative nationals.

There was an Antiguan contingent comprising of three new brands, developing in the tiny nation. All the designers emerging out of a programme were coordinated by Vanda Neale Gardner, under the Antigua Barbuda Festivals Commission, whose creative consultant is none other than, the Caribbean fashion guru, Richard Young.

Based on the vision of Antigua and Barbuda’s Trade, Commerce and

friday, november 25, 2016

Industry, Sports, Culture and National Festivals Minister E P Chet Greene, Young has facilitated this intra-regional interface to promote the Caribbean brand, in spite of its multifaceted components.

Kareem Simon of the ‘Jsimon label’, Kareem Blucher and Krystal Benjamin of ‘KB Squared’ and Shirrine Gillon of ‘Rainbow Expressions’ were elated to participate in a platform beyond their local scope, and boy were they well received.

The collections were a hit! There was also a model contingent from Curaçao – Face Model Organisation – who featured six striking models in the weekend’s line up.

Seasoned designer Sonia Noel, CEO of Guyana Fashion Week, presented Nubian Renaissance – a NeoAfrican twist on her traditional architectural latticing. Tracy Douglas’ modern tie dyes in deep pigments of forest life were a telling signature expression of her tribal influence.

Nelsion Nurse brought a menswear collection, ‘Metamorphosis’, showcasing red, black and white trendy urban-wear revealing the diverse attitudes of todays male. Paula Evans brought her special trademark hand painted flora and fauna motifs, walking on sunshine, on breathing fabrics and returning Guyanese designers – Dawn Vanrossum showed curvaceous couture in highgrade linens, in captivating hues and Stacy Angoy’s afro-centric resort wear was a compelling favourite of the event.

Creative Director and Caribbean fashion guru, Richard Young, says the second longest fashion festival in the Region is indeed proving its mettle. “Sonia Noel was exuberant about the return of GFW, expressing the relevance of its subtitle, ‘On the Pulse’, to the youth empowerment and creative arts mandate.

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guyanatimesgy.com

friday, november 25, 2016

to represent Guyana at Miss Caribbean Carnival Queens Pageant

T

wenty-four-year-old Odessa Grogan who stands five feet, six inches tall and weighs 108 pounds will represent Guyana at the Miss Caribbean Carnival Queens Pageant slated for St Kitts and Nevis on Saturday, December 17.

The pageant is a celebration of rich Caribbean carnival culture and as such, Guyana’s Mashramani experience will be the focus point of her showcase,

with a worldwind of creativity, colours, fun and festivity. The Accounts Clerk is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Business Management, having completed her diploma in that field at the University of Guyana.

The talented beauty ambassador recently participated in her first pageant, the Miss Guyana Universe which was won by Soyini Fraser. Grogan likes Indian, Latin and modern dances as well

as some acting and disc juggling.

Affectionately called “Spice Girl” – a name she got after being teased as a child due to having a similar hairstyle to “Scary Spice” from the Spice Girls – she is eager to represent Guyana on the international stage.

She is the youngest of seven children and was first runner-up in the Colefacts Student Designing Competition. She is also a part of the Civil Defence

Commission Volunteer Corps, which was developed to support the functioning initiatives of the Centres for Disease Control (CDC); the country’s national disaster organisation, particularly at the community level. Much of the focus of the CDC VC is on disaster risk management as it relates to children. Community service has been extremely important to Grogan since the age of eight when she first became involved with healthcare philanthropy.

Since then, it has been a personal passion of hers.

Among other causes, she routinely undertakes feeding programmes with friends and colleagues for vagrants in the various area of Georgetown.

She has also focused a lot on orphanages as well by personally organising the donation of clothing, and personal and school supplies.

The orphanage project has taken place every Christmas since 2009.

GHDS to host Kala Utsav on Sunday wings out for Miss World Pageant

Demerara, Georgetown, East Bank Demerara, West Coast Demerara and Essequibo.

One of the highlights of the Utsav is the Ramayan chanting category with dramatic depiction.

This is aimed at promoting elements of the Ramleela tradition and last year, it saw many creative and excellent presentations.

The Kirtan and folk dance segments have always been audience favourites and this year is expected to be no different, as large groups in these categories have been practicing dedicatedly

The Miss World Pageant is being held in Washington, DC, on December 18 with over 115 beautiful, accomplished, superwomen vying for the prestigious title of Miss Word 2016.

The pageant commenced on November 23 with a series of challenge events and culminates on December 18 with a grand coronation. Miss World is the oldest surviving major international beauty pageant. It was created in the United Kingdom by Eric Morley in 1951. Since his death in 2000, Morley’s widow, Julia Morley, has co-chaired the pageant.

T Nuriyyih Gerrard

M

iss World Guyana Nuriyyih Gerrard has left Guyana’s shores to participate in the 66th annual Miss World Pageant slated for December 18.

The Guyanese beauty ambassador left Guyana on Wednesday morning and is excited to be representing Guyana at the international pageant where she will be competing with close 104 delegates from around the world.

Leading up to the grand finale, the Guyanese beauty will clash head on in the preliminaries in several segments including swim wear, evening gown, intelligence and most importantly, the beauty with a purpose competition as well as the multimedia challenge. She will also be displaying Guyana’s national costume to the world. She is confident in bringing home the title.

For the past two years, Guyana has placed in the top 10 in the international pageant – in 2014, Rafieya Aasieya Husain and in 2015, Lisa Punch. The pressure Lisa Punch is now on Gerrard to do better.

Rafieya Husain

he Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha will be hosting Kala Utsav – its annual festival of arts – on Sunday, November 27 at the Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud Dharmic Sanskritik Kendra, Prashad Nagar, Greater Georgrtown, beginning at 10:00h.

The Utsav will see more than 200 young people under the age of 25 participate in friendly competitions in the categories of Ramayan chanting, male and female singing, duet singing, classical dance, folk dance, instrumental music and Kirtan.

Kala Utsav, which was introduced by the Sabha more than 20 years ago, was conceived as an innovative way to propagate and preserve the Indian art forms.

Its intention is to motivate young people to continue the traditions of their foreparents and to achieve excellence in the various art forms, while simultaneously building talent bases in the various regions.

It is a launch pad for talented youths across the country and allows for talent to be discovered

for future development. Trophies, certificates and cash incentives are given to all participants to encourage them.

Prior to the final Utsav, each of the Sabha’s Praants held preliminary Utsavs in their communities to select the best to represent them at the finals.

Participants will come from Upper Corentyne, Central Corentyne, East Berbice, West Berbice, East Coast

to put their best forward.

It is anticipated that some amazing new singing talent will be discovered on Sunday was well.

It is recalled that singers such as Purnash Durgaprasad, Vishalie Sukram and Artie Sookhai made their debuts at Kala Utsav.

All are invited to come and be a part of this special day with the Sabha. Admission is free.

friDAY, november 25, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

19

King’s A

fter a huge success at the Everest Cricket Club ground, Eve Leary, Georgetown in 2015, the King’s Duck Curry Competition moves to Palm Court, Main Street, Georgetown on Sunday, November 26.

This will be the first time the competition is being held at a club and from all indications; all plans are moving apace to host this event.

This year, apart from the Duck Curry Competition, there will be Thai duck curry on sale. This is being done in aid of the Rotary Club of Georgetown.

The event is expected to draw close to 20 participants and will include several from the United States of America, Trinidad and

Tobago, Suriname and Barbados. The competitors will be vying for the prestigious title, cash and trophies.

The competition starts at 15:00h and the entries will be judged on texture, aroma and taste. There will be prizes for the best presentation and largest group among others.

However, as the sun sets, patrons will be in for a rare treat, as former Trinidad Chutney King, Ravi B, takes to the stage.

He will be accompanied by a former member of the Karma Band – Gregory – who is no stranger to Guyana. There is also expected to be lots of tassa drumming.

The Thai duck curry will be sold at $2500 per serving and will be severed from 12:00h to 18:00h.

K

AST Talent Management proudly presents its first ever bikini pool party called “Aqua Dolls/Babes” this evening at the Aracari Resort, Versailles, West Bank Demerara.

Come out and be a part of the most innovative party concept; come out in your colorful bikinis and swimwear and rock to the amazing sounds of Mix Master Tony.

Don’t forget their main feature perfor-

A

G

bay Deals was created on Facebook 11 months ago as a regular group but it has touched the lives of many Guyanese. It is the first online market place where individuals could buy, sell or trade locally used or new items.

It has developed into a living business network, where persons are now able to work two jobs and still earn that extra income.

It even gives the young entrepreneurs the advantage of becoming

business orientated as it offers them an open playfield with unlimited options.

Presently it consists of over 26,000 local members while being professionally managed between eight individuals who have placed their best feet forward.

Because of its potential, the management is able to invest in an app and website so they can have better management since Facebook limits its control and privileges.

The app and website will be launching on

December 1. This will give users many more features, whereby they can obtain their own virtual store and build a reputation for themselves and business in the near future.

The best part is that this it will be absolutely free like Facebook; just with more features and advantages for users. This venture has been financed

by Cell Point and as such, Gbay Deals would like to extend special thanks to the management and team of Cell Point for making it possible.

ll plans are in place and the final positioning of the sounds systems and lighting are taking shape as the hours count down to the hosting of one of the most anticipated chutney shows on the West Coast of Demerara. The event is set for this Saturday at the parking lot of the Leonora Synthetic Track.

The organisers – Deejay Stress and Aamir Khan – have been doing their utmost to make sure this event will be on the tongues of everyone who attend.

Thus far, tickets are going like crazy and more so, with the arrival of some of the main performers, persons are rushing to ticketing locations.

However, leading up to the event, the promoters will be giving away tickets during several television programmes. On the other hand, the offer of buying three tickets and getting the fourth one free is still ongoing. The artistes have expressed their excitement to be performing at the venue for the first time.

Those slated to perform are reigning international chutney monarch, Kris Persad, also called “KI”; Nishard M, who is a member of KI and

mance by Guyanese local sensation Esan Benzy as he sets fire to the stage with his hit single “OOOUUU” remix and of course get to mingle with the sexy KAST models as they make this an event to be remembered.

Admission to the event costs $1000 and an additional $500 will be charged to use the pool. Gates open at 17:00h. This is one event you don’t want to miss.

the Band; M a s t e r S a l e e m Beharry

who is no stranger to Guyana; the sexy and breathtaking Sally Sagram, and rising Trinidad’s Chutney star, Shivan Sagram.

In addition, Aamir Khan along with the Shakti Stings Orchestra will be heating up the stage. Several Bollywood dancers and other top belly dancers will also grace the stage with their presence. Finally, the Dax New Generation Band will spice things up with some of their recent hits. Television and radio personality, WR Reaz is expected to be the emcee of the evening.

Tickets for the event cost $1500 in advance and more at the gate.

20

friDAY, november 25, 2016

Another successful Wado Ryu Junior Championships held

Diamond Mineral Water Indoor Hockey Festival 2016…

Hikers open campaign with crushing win

− Sensei Dunbar completes 50 years of action

The Hikers (green) made light work of the Avengers

S

ix time champions, Pepsi Hikers began their 2016 campaign in the Diamond Mineral water Hockey Festival by cruising past the Avengers in their opening match at the home of indoor hockey, the National Gymnasium on Wednesday.

A new look team, the Avengers began their tournament by coming up against one of the most dominant teams in the competition, the Pepsi Hikers who showed no mercy, easily winning the match 8-1. Within 10 minutes (10’) of play, Hikers had already netted two past the Avengers’ goalkeeper Oliver Rahim (Rayon Branford 4’ and Robert France 8’).

However, a goal in the 18’ by Avengers’ Kevin Edwards showed that they were not a walk over, but ParmanadDindial’s goal in the last minute of the first half left Hikers in the control seat, leading 3-1.

In the second half, within 5 minutes, Randy Hope Scored two quick goals while Robert France scored his second of the night, and Andrew Stewart and Aroydy Branford ensured their opening match sent a strong warning to the other teams.

Meanwhile, in the second male match, Bounty GCC and Old Fort played fiercely to a draw 2-2. Jason Dos Santos scored both goals for Old Fort while Peter DeGroot and Devin Hooper

were the GCC scorers.

In the veterans’ category, Bounty GCC would have the upper hand over Old Fort Veterans winning 4-2.

Christopher Low-Koan managed to score in the 23’ and 33’ for the Old Fort Vets, while doubles from Dwayne Scott (8’ and 29) and Devin Hooper (13’ and 31’) ensured the GCC side remained in control.

In the female match, Woodpecker Hikers were challenged by the Old Fort Ladies but managed to outplay the ladies in red to a 4-1 victory thanks to a hat trick of goals by Latacia Chung (6’, 15’ and 40’) with Nicole Eastman (16’) was the fourth scorer.

T

Participants display their prizes in the presence of officials of the GWRKA

he Guyana Wado Ryu Karate Association (GWRKA) hosted its National Junior Karate Championships with over 50 participants drawn from clubs affiliated to the Association at Banks DIH Limited Sports Club.

Randy Ramkarran was the winner of the Boys 13-15 years age category with Colrick Doris picking up the silver medal while third place went to Rayon Sookram.

The Boys 9-12 ‘A’ Class went to Ravindra Ramkarran followed by Cyrone Nedd in second position and Sachin James third. Vinal Datt won the Boys 9-12 ‘B’ division ahead of Abhinar Singh and Tai Panday.

In the Girls Open ‘A’ category Seara Mohamed was the winner with Ihatiah Frank claiming second place and Akila Hopkinson third.

Malika Rajkumar copped first place in the Girls Open ‘B’ division from Vasann Persaud and Skye Lionel.

Ravindra Singh claimed victory in the Boys 5-8 ‘A’ group from Abhivir Singh and Shadrock Hinds while category ‘B’ top performers were Mahir Rajkumar, Adrian Perry and Nathan Chin.

The tournament was sponsored by United States-based members of the Association Michael Mendonca and Terrence Clarke as well as International Pharmaceutical Agency (IPA) and Banks DIH Limited.

Banks DIH Limited Communications Manager Troy Peters who declared open the tournament lauded Sensei Winston Dunbar for his continued commitment to martial arts in Guyana.

This year marks 50 years since Sensei Dunbar started practicing martial arts locally.

Peters also encouraged parents to attend tournaments and to offer support to their children.

21 1-day 9-a-side football slated for Sunday sports

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the first round in a knockout style format, with the winners advancing to the quarter finals then to the semis and into the final which is slated for 22:00h on the same day.

The one day event will begin at 14:00h with Tucville taking on Wales. The other matches in the first round are Kitty V Mocha, Pouderoyen V Alexander Village, Crane V Kuru Kururu, Stewartville V Grove, Uitvlugt V Soesdyke, Sara Lodge V Sophia and Den Amstel V Herstelling.

The quarter finals round will begin at 18:00h while the Semi finals will meet up at 20:00h and also a featured match between West Coast Veterans taking on West Bank Veterans at 21:00h.

Teams will be playing according to the Inter Ward/Village tournament rules in accordance to FIFA rules. The no offside rule is also in effect in this format. The winners collect $300,000 while the runnersup claim $100,000, with both receiving trophies put up by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo. The MVP gets the Trophy Stall trophy, Best Goalie the Business School prize, while the play-

Organiser: Lennox Arthur

er scoring the most goals collects a Lazy Boy chair from AH&L Kissoon.

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Stag Beer grass track finals...

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Some of the riders along with organiser Sheik Yassen (third from left) at a meeting on Thursday

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he days are swiftly approaching for Sunday’s Stag Beer Grass Track finals at the Ogle Community Centre, East Coast Demerara and organiser Sheik Yassan says that the riders are ready to do battle and trill the fans.

The riders met on Thursday to discuss the final logistics of the races where he said that they all seemed confident of having an excellent showing.

More so, Yassen, who is also the Chairman of the Guyana Grass track Hall of Fame Committee, explained that the likes of Stanley Ming, Kevin Jeffrey, Avery Gomes, Keith Ramnarine, Mike Correia and Jerry “ Max” Govia will be honoured.

Currently Ravin Rajkumar leads the points standings with 65 points while defending champion Andy Wong is in second place on 60 points while Raj Rajkaran is tied in third place on 30 points with young Steven De Nobrega.

The event which was a huge crowd attraction in February at the same venue has ten races carded for the day across three categories (Professional, Novices and Chappy).

The professional riders will have five races at 12 laps while the Novices will have 10 laps and the Chappy will race five laps.

However, the organiser revealed that the feature race of the day will be the five-lap veterans’ race which will feature some of the stalwarts of grass track racing in Guyana.

In addition to Stag Beer as title sponsor, Regal Sports and BM Soat Auto Sales are also in support of the event.

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friday, november 25, 2016

Beaton earns BPL stint with Dhaka Dynamites

By Akeem Greene

T

he popular phrase “all good things come to those who wait" seems to be embodied in the life of Guyanese fast bowler Ronsford Beaton as on Thursday he was given the confirmation that he will be joining West Indian players Dwayne Bravo, Andre Russell and Evin Lewis in the Dhaka Dynamites Franchise in the current Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

Despite not being selected by Cricket Guyana Inc for the Guyana Jaguars squad in the ongoing 2016/2017 West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Professional Cricket League (PCL) Digicel four-day competition, albeit he can still play as a “pay-for-play cricketer”, he gained the nod for the West Indies A team tour to Sri Lanka where he played three 50over matches, capturing seven wickets bowling at high pace.

Speaking to Guyana Times Sport the speedster was

quizzed on how he feels of the opportunity in star-studded tournament.

“I feel pretty confident knowing I had an excellent A-team tour in Sri Lanka, the conditions which should play similar because it’s that part of the world where there is not much help for fast bowlers. I think with my bowling form I’m going there with a lot of confidence; there is still a lot of games in tournaAn excellent showing in ment so I will be looking to be the BPL could be the in among the wickets,” Beaton put needed for Beaton stated. to catapult onto the The right-arm seamer International scene who had a decent 2016 Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) for the Trinbago Knight Riders where he played 11 matches and picked up four wickets but bowled with great purpose throughout the tournament, will join the BPL with only 25 of the 42 preliminary matches played already. His franchise, Dhaka Dynamites is in third position on the points table of the seven team tournament.

The 24 year-old, who last played for his country in March during a four-day match, says that he feels somewhat bereaved over not getting a contract with his home team and posits that playing in the BPL will open a door of opportunities for him.

“Knowing that I was denied a contract by the local board for reasons that I still can’t understand and knowing that I have not been selected in the team for the third round of the regional 4-day, this news is very delightful to me since I get an opportunity to showcase my talent on a bigger field,” the former West Indies under-19 player stated.

Beaton, who gained the attention of India’s star batsman Yuvraj Singh on an A- team tour to India where the Indian likened him to great Caribbean bowler Curtly Ambrose had fell off the radar to some degree but over the last season has clearly been rejuvenated.

Asked as to what brought the improvement, he responded, “I did my normal fitness work and training but the fight that I have been getting I just looked to prove points to people that I am not what that they think I am.”

Though having difficulties playing for the territory, the lanky seamer still feels he can gain selection into the senior West Indies Team.

Beaton who departed these shores on Thursday will join a fleet of West Indies T20 stars in the fourth edition of the tournament which was won by Comilla Victorians last year.

Deokie rates motor racing season as one of his best

N

ovember 13 marked the end of the 2016 motor racing season in Guyana and local racer Daniel Deokie on reflection of the season, rated it as one of his best.

The final leg of the Caribbean Motor Racing Championships (CMRC) was held at South Dakota and Deokie driving in group two managed to win two of the two races in his newly built Honda Civic, a feat he really enjoyed.

“I debut my newly built Honda Civic in a higher class than what I previously use to race, it's a bigger engine and faster car which I am yet to learn but I did well driving this car for the first time so for my supporters all I could say is look out for me getting faster in time to come”, the team ER racing driver said.

Deokie, who was the local champion driver in 2014 is hopefully that he can tour to the other three legs in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados once given the support of sponsors.

In that regard the driver wished to thank the support of Guyoil (super 95 gas), Toucan Industry, Payless Variety Store, A-girls, D&G Foreign Auto Services along with his family and friends.

The driver is extremely optimistic that the 2017 season will bring even better results for him.

Proud moment! Daniel Deokie celebrates winning one of his races at the South Dakota Circuit

friday, november 25, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

23

District 10 on path for title repeat - Caesar, Wilson complete sprint double

D

istrict 10 (Upper Demerara/ Kwakwani) are well on their way to reclaiming the title in the 56th Annual Ministry of Education/Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) National School’s Cycling, Swimming and Track and Field Championships as the team extended their lead to exactly 100 points at the close of day four at the National Stadium, Providence on Thursday.

The 14 time champions had another dominant day as they raced to 461.5 points at the end of 106 finals.

District Three (West Demerara) remained in second position but fell further behind, trailing by 100 points on 361.5. District Five ( West Coast Berbice) moved up to take over the third spot on 345 points while District Six (Corentyne), District Four (East Coast Demerara) and Linden’s Compton Caesar District One (North races to gold in the boys’ West) are currently in Under-20 200m final 4th, 5th and 6th position with 329.5,322 and 309 points respectively.

Other rankings include District 11 (North Georgetown) on 299.5, District Two (Essequibo Coast/ Pomeroon) on 255.5, District 15 (New Amsterdam) on 254, District 12 (East Georgetown) on 253.5, District 13 ( South Georgetown) on 202, District Seven (Bartica) on 198, District Nine (Rupununi) on 166, District 14 (East Bank Demera) on 159.5 and District Eight (Potaro/ Siparuni) on 24.5 points.

The highlight of the day was District 10’s Compton Caesar and Daniel Wilson romping respective sprint doubles by winning the 200M under-20 and under-18 events respectively.

Caesear won ahead of Districts’ 12 Linton Mentis and District 15 Stayon Wilson; the Lindener had a time of 22.1s while Mentis was distances behind with a time of 22.7s and Wilson 23.0s.

Caeser, speaking with this publication after the event said that he was happy to help his team assume a commanding position and looked forward to a bright future in the sport.

In the female under-20, another Lindener ruled the field as Denita Jackson clocked 26.7s to win ahead of Kimberly Hassanah (27.3s) and Ruth Sanmoogan (27.4s).

In the boys under-18 Wilson continued the Linden team dominance as he added another goal medal in his closest by winning in a time of 22.7s with his closet rival being Brian Roman (23.5) and Umkosi Vancooten (23.7). The upset of the day’s event came when North Georgetown’s Kenisha Phillips failed to replicate the winning run as she did in the 100M on Wednesday as District’s 10 Deshanya Skeete turned the tables to win in a time of 25.3s edging Phillips at the line with her time being 25.4s; Tiffauna Garnett took third with 26.3s. In the 1500M events; District’s 15 Ruel Chester won the boys under-20 in a time of 4m:27.9s while Delroy Leitch (4:28.0) and Ameer Ally (4m:38.1s); the female event was won by Maria Urquhart (5:23.4).

North Georgetown Samuel Lynch is the class of an top middle distance runner as after winning the 800M on Wednesday he won the boys under-18 1500M. The win was not as easy as the 2-lap event since he was pushed by Okemi Porter. Lynch clocked a time of 4m: 30.0s while Porter came in at 4m:31.9s.; District’s 11 Claudrice McKoy added another goal by winning the event in a time of 5m:06.8s.

friday, november 25, 2016

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

guyanatimesgy.com

MoE/GTU 56th National Schools Cycling, Swimming and Track and Field Championships…

Pg 23

District 10 on path for title repeat − Caesar, Wilson complete sprint double

District’s 10 Denita Jackson clocked a time of 26.7s to comfortably win the girls’ Under-20 200m final on Thursday at the National Stadium, Providence

Pg 22

Diamond Mineral Water Indoor Hockey Festival 2016…

Pg 20

Beaton earns BPL stint Hikers open campaign with Dhaka

with crushing win

Hikers' Latacia Chung scored three goals to see her team home

Dynamites

After having a successful outing on the West Indies A team tour to Sri Lanka, the pacey right-arm fast bowler now heads to Bangladesh

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