Guyana Times Daily - March 31, 2015

APNU/AFC Whim rally:

Ramjattan dozes off P13 …during Granger’s address on security Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 2449

Tuesday, March 31, 2015

Corentyne rejects APNU/AFC:

11% doomed Page 3

...Whim crowd "bused in" Bush Lot WCB smash-up:

3 dead as speeding car rams into trucks

Dead: Guyana Defence Force Officer Jaron James

Page 12

The mangled Toyota Raum that slammed into two parked trucks on the Golden Grove Public Road, West Coast Berbice

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Fake cops slapped with gun, drugs possession charges P8 Man wanted for killing P10 Victoria miner Taxi driver P10 killed at De Willem WCD

Guyana must invest in viable renewable P10 energy

Dead: Tommy Thomas

Teacher sacked Bogus cops fingered in Crumfor fondling Ewing’s murder student Page 11

Page 7

...3 heads demoted, transferred for neglect

...Police to test guns for ballistic evidence

“Viability of gold industry becoming difficult” – Harding P17 …low declarations a result of market

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news

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BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, March 31 – 14:30h-16:00h and Wednesday, April 1 – 14:30h-16:00h The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, March 31 – 13:55h-15:25h and Wednesday, April 1 – 14:35h-16:05h

FERRY SCHEDULE Ferries will be departing the Parika and Supenaam stellings on: Tuesday, March 31 – 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h

WEATHER TODAY

Light cloud cover is expected to give way to light rain showers in the morning, with sunny intervals in the afternoon. Partly cloudy conditions can be expected in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-easterly between 4.91 metres and 5.81 metres per second.

High Tide: 02:01h and 14:21h reaching maximum heights of 2.22 metres and 2.29 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 07:55h and 20:18h reaching minimum heights of 0.99 metre and 0.88 metre respectively.

Corentyne rejects APNU/AFC: 11% doomed ...Whim crowd "bused in"

T

he thousands who gathered at Whim, Corentyne Sunday evening for the PNC-led APNU+AFC rally were mainly residents of Georgetown and even farther afield-a clear indication that the Corentyne constituency has largely rejected the coalition which has been counting on Moses Nagamootoo’s promised 11 per cent from that area, to clinch the majority at the May 11 polls.

In what has now become a culture of “bussing and trucking” supporters to boost numbers at campaign rallies, the PNC-led A Partnership For National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) outdid themselves when they mobilised thousands to journey with them to Whim. Observers had earlier billed the rally as a “make or break” for Moses Nagamootoo and Khemraj Ramjattan as the support from the Corentyne constituency would have given a clear indication as to whether they

Some of the vehicles from Georgetown transporting APNU+AFC supporters to the rally in Whim, Berbice

trucks” to ferry supporters from the Corentyne to their Kitty rally. The PPP/C had pointed out to no avail that GuySuCo did not own “transport trucks” but contracted their service from private operators. The latter as supporters of the PPP/C were said to provide them free of charge to the PPP/C. The opposition had advertised their Whim rally with a motorcade component. This was seen as a way of staving off any embarrassment from the poor turnout. Both

while some may continue to live in the view that the Whim, Corentyne area is a PPP/C stronghold, this was not true.

The General Secretary said that based on the results of the previous elections, the area has a huge support base for the AFC party. He further pointed out that the Whim was the home to Nagamootoo and Granger. Back in mid February, speaking at a meeting in New Amsterdam Nagamootoo had declared that APNU will easily win 40 per cent of the votes at the upcom-

Nagamootoo and Veerasammy Ramayya are from Whim and David Granger said he received his early education in the village. However, Whim over the years has voted solidly for the PPP/C and from Sunday’s turn out it seems as there is no significant shift in support for the party there.

Days before the rally Guyana Times had asked AFC leaders as to whether they were confident of a large turnout of Corentyne residents and AFC, General Secretary David Patterson had expressed optimism. Patterson, speaking to the Guyana Times last Thursday related that he does not believe that the turnout at the meeting will be poor.

On the contrary, he was of the strong belief that critics might be in for a surprise when the coalition conducts its meetings there.

Patterson related that

ing elections. Historically, the PNC which forms the bulk of APNU has always been able to secure this 40 per cent from its traditional African Guyanese base. The AFC, according to Nagamootoo could give the David Granger-led coalition the other 11 per cent it needs to clinch a majority.

At the last elections, the AFC under an Indian Guyanese leader Khemraj Ramjattan won 10.3 per cent

A section of the crowd

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would be able to deliver the 11 per cent Indian votes promised to APNU. However, within mammoth crowd assembled Sunday the vast majority were from outside of Whim with only a sprinkling being of of “Indian Guyanese” decent. Speaking to Bobby Vieira prior the commencement of the rally APNU General Secretary, Joseph Harmon acknowledged that a number of persons had travelled up to Corentyne to attend the rally. He suggested that many used their private transportation which shows that citizens were ready to sacrifice for the coalition. However there were numerous busses photographed brining supporters across the Berbice Bridge.

Harmon also sought to draw comparison with the People’s Progressive Party Civic, which he said used “Guyana Sugar Corporation

of the votes mainly from the Indian dominated Region 6 votes.

In 2006, the AFC had secured a similar percentage of votes but under the leadership of Raphael Trotman, most had come from the APNU African dominated constituency. Conceding that the AFC cannot compare itself with APNU in terms of its electoral strength, Nagamootoo who was hand-selected as Presidential Candidate by AFC’s Leader, Khemraj Ramjattan said electoral alliance was the way to go.

Nagamootoo was deliberately selected by Ramjattan who arbitrarily jettisoned the “presidential candidate rotation principle” to select the Indian Guyanese AFC Vice Chairman Moses Nagamootoo over the Chairman Nigel Hughes.

On the basis of their claim that the AFC would deliver the 11 per cent Indian Guyanese to APNU, the latter conceded 40 per cent of their last showing in the Parliamentary elections plus three new Vice Presidents. Analysts question whether APNU has to deliver on the agreement since it appears that the AFC would be unable to fulfil it’s side of the Cummingsburg Accord.

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tuesday, march 31, 2015

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

Editorial

Rule of law not riots

D

avid Granger's 11th hour labelling of the Provisional Electoral List as "dirty", raises the question once again as to what are the principles by which we shall we be governed? We had assumed that the question had long been settled: the overriding principle would be the rule of law – the notion that we would be governed by laws and not by men.

As they have done in the past, it is feared that the PNC-led APNU/AFC coalition might be setting the stage for claiming that if they lose the upcoming elections they might claim it was "rigged".

While we may have had many problems with colonial rule, we assumed unanimity in our acceptance on the rule of law. But we may be too optimistic. Take one instance in the public domain right now: the killing of an individual – CrumEwing - at night while he was exhorting villagers to vote for the Opposition.

Under the principle of the Rule of Law, the Opposition should allow the Police to conduct their investigation - or even have private investigators do so - but have the evidence evaluated by a court of law. In that institution, the evidence would be considered under the laws of the land and under the principle of equity and a judgement would be handed down.

But instead there all kinds of inflammatory statements issued, protest marches staged and ultimatums launched.

And all of this from individuals purporting to be from our most “educated” stratum. It is no wonder that we have remained lumped as “Third World” and by definition, “Third Rate”.

We in Guyana want to live like the “developed” countries; we demand the trappings and titles of the “First World” – but we do not have the fortitude to stand on the bedrock that has made those countries into havens of stability – the rule of law. What is this rule of law and in what way is it being transgressed today?

In modern parlance, the essential characteristic of the rule of law are: the supremacy of law, which means that all persons (individuals and institutions) are subject to law; a concept of justice which emphasizes interpersonal adjudication, law based on standards and the importance of procedures; restrictions on the exercise of discretionary power; the doctrine of judicial precedent; the common law methodology; legislation should be prospective and not retrospective; an independent judiciary; the exercise

by Parliament of the legislative power and restrictions on exercise of legislative power by the executive; and last but not least, an underlying moral basis for all law.

In the case that has transfixed the Opposition, let us consider one element of the rule of law – interpersonal adjudication. This aspect of the liberal concept of justice which an interpersonal one - resolution of conflicts between individual entities.

Entities can suffer or perpetrate wrong. Entities can be punished, protected and granted restitution. Justice is an interpersonal thing. It consists in upholding that which is right and due as between persons or entities.

What is playing out in Guyana is the insistence of one misguided section to pursue their notion of “social justice” by bypassing the recourse to interpersonal adjudication. In judging the Government as "responsible" for the killing of Crum-Ewing, they risk bringing down the whole edifice of the rule of law so painstakingly won in the last two centuries following the abolition of slavery.

Another problem posing a challenge to the rule of law is the refusal of those individuals to accept that even under the rule of law, legitimate interests might have to be subsumed under the principle of justice for the greater good.

In all elections, one group will win but this does not mean that the other group has to riot. If under the existing rule of law they feel their interests are being subsumed, then the Constitution has a procedure for altering the rules.

Let the rule of law prevail.

Kathmandu graffiti: Street art in the Nepalese capital has made the walls come to life. This piece is by visiting artist Danae Brissonet (BBC)

Why is Mr Jackson off tune and chorus?

Dear Editor, In a letter on March 20, former PNC Foreign Affairs Minister Rashleigh Jackson is in mourning about disrespect of the PPP/C’s founder leaders. No such PNC empathy or remorse has ever been shown to Dr Rodney or his family.

Why is Mr Jackson off tune and chorus, or is he?

“What wind blew you hither, Pistol? Not the ill wind which blows no man to good.” (Shakespeare’s King Henry the Fourth, Part II).

Anguish

Now that former President Bharat Jagdeo has cleared the air, his exoneration by affirmation that no malice, ill will or disrespect was at anytime intended should be acceptable.

It has calmed the season of our discontent to whom it matters most. But what can motivate Mr Jackson to bewail - “with more than a tinge of sadness (sic)” - he tells us, about his anguish to any perceived unkindness to Dr Cheddi Jagan’s legacy?

Mischief making or a full peacock on display? Isn’t he better qualified to lament

the PNC’s misdeeds without exception when it is more appropriate?

Violent

“He who calls off the dog, owns the dog” was the reply of PNC Opposition Leader Forbes Burnham’s in rejecting the request from British Governor Sir Ralph Grey to call off violent PNC rioters in Georgetown in 1964.

“Cry havoc and let loose the dogs of war” (Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar) was unleashed and succeeded only too well in the combined Opposition’s violent removal of the PPP government in 1964. It lasted 28 miserable years.

Mr Jackson was the PNC Government’s chief lookout atop their ship’s sail to espy the foreign horizon and warn captain Burnham of danger when Dr Walter Rodney was assassinated. The Foreign Ministry was fully prepared for the expected worldwide fallout. Ahoy there sailor!

Which Jackson is now on display? So much PNC tears shed for the Jagans, but none from the same PNC for a fellow Black Guyanese who was bombed to death?

Tsk! Tsk! Strange or predictable to find the PNC now aweep because of any ill wind blown on Dr Jagan’s jumbie.

Could all this be genuine sympathy, or is it not theater of the reborn righteous? Check out the lyrics of Michael Jackson’s “Man in the mirror”: “I’m starting with the man in the mirror. I’m asking him to change his ways.

And no message could have been any clearer. If you want to make the world a better place. Take a look at yourself, and then make a change.”

But then for old timers like our PNC lookout, maybe Dr Martin Luther King’s inspiration, that is, Mahatma Gandhi, could have been more instructive:”You must be the change you wish to see in the world....”

If the PNC’s Jackson is not being harshly judged a hypocrite, maybe he can clear the air like Dr Jagdeo has done. Please.

Admonition

What was ironic about Mr Jackson’s tearful public empathy was his finger wag-

ging admonition that: “I can only hope that no future former President will hold and express similar jaundiced views.”

Now surely Mr Jackson could not be establishing one rule for PPP/C Presidents without that same rule also applying to the PNC and its new coalition friends?

If not, then Mr Burnham’s refusal to call off the rioting Shakespearian “dogs of war” in 1964 would become a most “peculiar” exception, wouldn’t it?

Catechism

What is most educational, especially for Mr Jackson is a catechism of Guyana’s history.

Mr Jackson is most correct that Dr Jagan’s PPP/C popular refrain was “the poor are getting poorer and the rich are getting richer”. First, it was the PNC Government (1964-1992) which imposed a hefty sugar levy on the sugar industry in effect skimming off the profits. It was the PPP/C’s President Jagdeo who terminated that policy.

Turn to page 5

The AFC is now dead meat Dear Editor, The people of Berbice have spoken and the AFC is now dead meat. The entire population of Whim feels that the sanctity of their village has been violated and that Nagamootoo has now been confirmed as ‘Namak Haram’ Number 1.

The Indians of Berbice have categorically and have unanimously rejected the coalition which they see as a barefaced sell-out by the

AFC. I have chaired an AFC rally at the same venue in 2011 and it was clear then that the Indians of Berbice turned out in large numbers to support the AFC. But now it is even clearer that those same people are now absent. In my estimation there were about 150 Indians in that crowd and some went out of curiosity.

But this came as no surprise to me since I have visited some of the AFC public meet-

ings in Berbice prior to this rally and I have seen glaring evidences that these meetings have more APNU supporters than AFC supporters.

For instance, meetings at Chesney Front, Hog Town, Hampshire and Bush Lot had below 20 persons and these were APNU supporters. In fact at Bush Lot on the Corentyne, I saw Ramayya speaking to six Policemen and about five persons including two don-

keys who were trying to get their fill before nightfall.

At these same venues in 2011, the AFC had in excess of 200 persons.

It is now an early indication that the AFC will face an early retirement from the political scene. The Indians have rejected Moses 11 per cent bargaining chip with the PNC. May 11 will confirm this once and for all.

Haseef Yusuf

guyanatimesgy.com

TuesDAY, march 31, 2015

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A campaign of lies about land Degrees but no morals in Amerindian communities Dear Editor, I was reliably informed by some Amerindian communities in the Rupununi region that old time PNC lackey William Tony in his PNC/APNU-AFC elections campaign has been telling them that the Chinese and Brazilians are taking away the land that belongs to the Amerindian people, and if they get into Government (which will never happen) the lands would be taken back.

Let me inform the rightthinking Amerindian communities not to believe one word from the PNC/APNUAFC coalition, since they are on a campaign of mere lies and deceit just to win votes.

Further, Tony has outlived his usefulness to the Rupununi region and must not be allowed into communities since he has absolutely nothing constructive to speak about only lies about our PPP/C Government which has demonstrated that it is committed towards the social and economic development of the Amerindian communities of Guyana.

Tony like his bossmen David Granger and Moses

Nagamootoo are wolves in sheep’s clothing and must not be trusted and allowed into the Amerindian communities to spread their venom. Some communities have already done so in Region Nine (Upper TakatuUpper Essequibo) and other regions.

But Tony has no proof or evidence that the Chinese and Brazilians are taking away the lands that belong to Amerindian communities.

Is Tony James, an APNU+AFC, supporter telling Tony what to say to Amerindian communities on their campaign trail? And in this connection what of the South Central Peoples Development Association (SCPDA), which is a front of the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA), of which James is the Vice President?

Clearly, Tony’s APNU+AFC campaign of lies on land in Amerindian communities in the Rupununi is the agenda of SCPDA and APA. So beware of danger communities.

The simple truth is that the PPP/C Government respects and upholds the land rights of Guyana’s indigenous people and in this re-

gard will never take away legally titled Amerindian lands, neither lands that have been identified for village extensions by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs (MOAA).

Also lands that have been identified by the MOAA for land titling. Further what ignoramus Tony needs to know as well is that all lands legally owned by Amerindian communities are held in perpetuity.

In this connection therefore absolutely no one can take away or claim lands that are legally held by the Amerindian Peoples of Guyana.

Tony must therefore stop lying to the Amerindian communities at his poorly attended campaign meetings in the Rupununi region just for scarce votes on matters that pertain to their lands.

Nevertheless Tony, the PPP/C shall be re-elected to Government by a majority since it is known to be a party with a developmental agenda for the people of Guyana Peter Persaud

Investment climate conducive to growth, expansion of business sector Dear Editor, To say that the economy of Guyana is doing well is an understatement. The banking sector is expanding with new branches opening in all regions of the country. The same is true of the business sector which is also expanding.

The most recent addition to this expanding business sector is the opening of a world class Call Centre at Providence, East Bank Demerara, which according to media reports, when completed will be the largest in the world.

This investment which is expected to create employment for some 6,000 Guyanese when completed must be seen not only as a landmark investment project but also as a demonstration of confidence in the Guyana economy.

This investment comes on the heels of another big investment project, Giftland Mall at Turkeyen which is expected to open its doors in May, a mere days from now.

This project is yet another expression of investor confidence and when fully operational would employ scores of Guyanese.

Just recently Guyana’s President Donald Ramotar commissioned another project in Essequibo which will manufacture rice cereal.

These and the several other business enterprises that have recently come on board is at odds with a perception being created by

the political Opposition that the investment climate in Guyana is not conducive to the growth and expansion of the business sector.

On the contrary, the PPP/C Administration has always recognized the importance of an investorfriendly climate which is necessary to attract foreign direct investment as well as local investment.

In this regard, the statements made by Kirk Laughlin, Nearshore Americas Founder and Managing Director is most reassuring when he identified Guyana as a special place for investors, especially those in the Business Outsourcing Industry.

According to Laughlin, “There is something very special here and this is what is really powerful about the of the business outsourcing industry in which people like me, outsiders like me sometimes observe the specialness, the unique features that even people in that country don’t fully recognize.”

These are indeed words of encouragement which speak to the enormous potential we have to lift this country to higher levels of development and greatness.

Guyana has the potential to become the Singapore of the Caribbean especially in the context of our vast natural and mineral resources and a growing cadre of skilled human capital. Regrettably,

the modernization process envisaged by the current PPP/C Administration suffered some significant setbacks by an unsupportive political opposition during the last parliament.

I take this opportunity to salute that great visionary Lee Kuan Yew who passed on recently after successfully transforming his once backward country to one of the emerging economic giants in the world.

Hydar Ally

Dear Editor, “A man who has never gone to school may steal a freight car; but if he has a university education, he may steal the whole railroad” – Theodore Roosevelt The financial meltdown that led to the Great Recession in the USA was orchestrated by Wall Street crooks, decorated with MBAs and other degrees. In many countries, some of the most shameful schemes of corruption, nepotism, fraud, theft, bribery, financial malfeasance, and misuse of public assets and funds are daily been perpetuated by degreed rogues holding key positions in government and in corporate entities.

It is not uncommon to hear of highly certified individuals (such as doctors, lawyers and accountants, etc) being involved in various illegal and corrupt schemes and enterprises.

It is also public knowledge that some Guyanese professionals (mainly lawyers and real estate agents) have been jailed (or are awaiting sentencing) in the United States for various financial crimes. This is an unnecessary burden on the Guyanese community here, which has been recognized for its industriousness and dedication.

The expectation is that university – educated individuals would have some modicum of morality; at least enough to compel them to shy away from wrong – doing.

Also, the common notion is that highly qualified managers and key executives in organizations would be paradigms of integrity setting the values and tone of the corporate culture, and they would be the least likely individuals to commit any fraud or wrong – doing.

The actual reality is far different. Many see no harm in using their skills, knowledge, persuasive ability, access to companies’ records and financial statements,

Why is Mr Jackson...

From page 4

Second, it was Dr Jagan, who despite his Marxist embrace had emphasised he was a glasnost advocate long before the former Soviet Union’s Mikhail Gorbachev did so. Did Dr Jagan change with the times?

Sun Chapman

Third, Mr Granger has pledged to build a monument to victims of the Sun Chapman tragedy as he is on record of ignoring the heinous massacre of Indians at Wismar in 1964. The Jagans’ PPP/C historically ignored both events.

Why is the former soldier in militant PNC programming to plough up old race wounds? Aren’t both events lamentable tragedies?

Fourth, Mr Granger has promised to reintroduce

National Service which provoked nationwide outrage.

Will the PNC temporarily duck advocating this goal before the May 11 elections only to champion it again?

So what about the Guyanese people? Who is looking out for them?

The AFC which was the best hope of changing Guyana has either lost its compass or there is a mutiny on the ship seeking lavish loot. Their objective as Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar so brilliantly wrote is: “To cut the head off and then hack the limbs, like wrath in death and envy afterwards.”

Come May 11 we will know if old habits are alive or Guyanese have moved on.

Sultan Mohamed

and their power and authority, to mask their nefarious and corrupt deeds and make them appear as perfectly acceptable.

In many instances, it can require the investigative and forensic skills of a team of highly trained individuals to reveal the criminal nature of their activities. Once they have taken that ‘first step’, there is then no limit to their attempts to deceive, cheat, and commit various crimes.

Their professional ethics then become subservient to their dark world of fraud and corruption, and soon they acquire that obsessive drive to concoct various creative and exotic schemes to further their greed.

An uneducated man caught stealing is immediately jailed; these ‘educated’ rascals can steal for decades, hiding under the cloak of their professional ‘respectability’ and (like corrupt priests and pandits) taking advantage of the trust we place in them. But they cannot escape from the hands of time; when caught the shame and the decline is most steep and rapid.

It is shocking and strange that so many highly qualified professionals seem to have a definite proclivity to commit fraud and various other forms of wrong – doing. On a deeper level, there is not much of a mystery here.

Central to the ‘core values’ of these individuals is the concept that ‘greed is good’, greed is beautiful and

highly beneficial; greed must be nourished and expanded because it is the bedrock of material advancement, wealth, fame and social status.

For many of them, greed is not only morally acceptable; it becomes the motive force of life itself, the drive that is the causative factor in all progress and advancement.

So many books have been written and so many seminars held where greed has not only been promoted, but where it has also been literally deified.

When greed takes such a strong foothold on their consciousness, it is but an easy step, a quite natural progression, to engage in various illegal activities, to be blind to the feelings and pains of others, and to exploit others for their own enrichment.

Also, when greed has become the key driver for action and for life itself, then it matters little whether one is highly qualified or not; the path to evil and infamy is assured.

This is so beautifully hinted at by the great spiritual master and poet, Rabindranath Tagore, who wrote: “The greed of gain has no time or limit to its capaciousness. It has pity neither for beautiful nature nor for living human beings. It is ruthlessly ready without a moment’s hesitation to crush beauty and life.”

Cecil Ramkirath

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Foundation

Children and temper tantrums P

arents expect temper tantrums from two-year-olds, but angry outbursts don’t necessarily stop after the toddler years. Older children sometimes have trouble handling anger and frustration, too.

Some children only lose their cool on occasion. But others seem to have a harder time when things don’t go their way.

Children who tend to have strong reactions by nature will need more help from parents to manage their tempers.

Controlling outbursts can be difficult for children – and helping them learn to do so is a tough job for the parents who love them.

Try to be patient and positive, and know that these skills take time to develop and that just about every child can improve with the right coaching.

A parent’s role Managing children can be a challenge. Some days, keeping the peace while keeping your cool seems impossible. But whether you’re reacting to an occasional temper flare-up or a pattern of outbursts, managing your own anger when things get heated will make it easier to teach children to do the same.

To help tame a temper, try to be your child’s ally – you’re both rooting for your child to triumph over the temper that keeps leading to trouble.

While your own pa-

tience may be frayed by angry outbursts, opposition, defiance, arguing, and talking back, it’s during these episodes that you need your patience most. Of course you feel angry, but what counts is how you handle that.

Reacting to children’ meltdowns with yelling and outbursts of your own will only teach them to do the same (and actually is associated with an increase in children’s negative behaviours). But keeping your cool and calmly working through a frustrating situation lets you show – and teach –

screaming and soon you hear doors slamming, the thump of hitting, and crying. You decide to get involved before someone gets really hurt.

By the time you arrive at the scene of the fight, you may be at the end of your own rope. After all, the sound of screaming is upsetting, and you may be frustrated that your children aren’t sharing or trying to get along. (And you know that this toy they’re fighting over is going to be lost, broken, or ignored before long anyway!)

So what’s the best way for you to react? With your

remember that you’re trying to teach your children how to handle anger.

If you yell or threaten, you’ll model and ingrain the exact kinds of behaviour you want to discourage. Your children will see that you’re so angry and unable to control your own temper that you can’t help but scream – and that won’t help them learn not to scream.

What you can do Regulating emotions and managing behaviour are skills that develop slowly over time during childhood. Just like

is clearly but calmly review the rules. “I know you’re upset, but no yelling and no name-calling, please” may be all your child needs to gain composure. Follow up by clearly, calmly, and patiently giving an instruction like “tell me what you’re upset about” or “please apologise to your brother for calling him that name.” In this way, you’re guiding your child back to acceptable behaviour and encouraging self-control.

Also, tell your child what will happen if he or she doesn’t calm down – for example, “If you don’t

appropriate ways to handle anger and frustration.

Let’s say you hear your children fighting over a toy in the other room.

You have ignored it, hoping that they would work it out themselves. But the arguing turns into

own self-control intact.

Teaching by example is your most powerful tool.

Speak calmly, clearly, and firmly – not with anger, blame, harsh criticisms, threats, or putdowns.

Of course, that’s easier said than done. But

any other skills, your children will need to learn and practice them, with your help.

If it’s uncharacteristic for your child to have a tantrum, on the rare occasion that it happens all you may need to do

calm down, you need to go to your room until you’re able to stop screaming.”

Children whose temper outbursts are routine might lack the self-control necessary to deal with frustration and anger and need more help manag-

ing those emotions. These steps can help: Help children put it into words. If your child is in the midst of an outburst, find out what’s wrong. If necessary, use a time-out to get your child to settle down or calmly issue a reminder about house rules and expectations – “There’s no yelling or throwing stuff; please stop that right now and cool your jets.” Remind your child to talk to you without whining, sulking, or yelling. Once your child calms down, ask what got him or her so upset.

You might say, “Use your words to tell me what’s wrong and what you’re mad about.” This helps your child put emotions into words and figure out what, if anything, needs to be done to solve the problem. However, don’t push too hard for your child to talk right then. He or she may need some time to reflect before being ready to talk.

Listen and respond.

Once your child puts the feelings into words, it’s up to you to listen and say that you understand.

If your child is struggling for words, offer some help: “so that made you angry,” “you must have felt frustrated,” or “that must have hurt your feelings.”

Offer to help find an answer if there’s a problem to be solved, a conflict to be mended, or an apology to be made. Many times, feeling listened to and understood is all children need to regain their composure.

But while acknowledging your child’s feelings, make it clear that strong emotions aren’t an excuse for unacceptable behaviour. “I know you’re mad, but it’s still not OK to hit.” Then tell your child some things to try instead. Some children really just need to be “heard” first.

Create clear ground rules and stick to them.

Set and maintain clear expectations for what is and what is not acceptable without using threats, accusations, or putdowns.

Your child will get the message if you make clear, simple statements about what’s off limits and explain what you want him or her to do. You might say: “There’s no yelling in this house. Use your words to tell me what’s upsetting you.” Try to have these discussions before an anger outburst so children know the expectations ahead of time. (kidshealth.org)

TO BE CONTINUED

7 Teacher sacked for fondling student news

tuesday, march 31, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

...3 heads demoted, transferred for neglect

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he Teaching Service Commission (TSC) has demoted and transferred three headteachers for negligence and inefficiency and also fired another teacher for allegedly fondling students.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Commission on Monday. The TSC said in fulfilment of its mandate, which includes the discipline and removal of teachers, it demoted and transferred three headteachers who were found guilty of

neglect of duty, inefficiency and misconduct. According to the TSC, disciplinary charges were laid after officers of the Ministry of Education paid supervisory visits to the particular schools, pointed out the deficiencies observed, and gave the necessary advice and help to the headteachers.

The TSC said that a lack of improvement/change in the unsatisfactory state of affairs led to charges, which resulted in the headteachers being summoned to attend hearings held by the Commission. They

were found guilty. The penalty inflicted was demotion and a penalty transfer to schools with “good headteachers” where they will be supervised and given the opportunity to look, learn and practise how to manage a school effectively, the TSC said.

The Commission noted that the issues dealt with were part of the 60-odd complaints reaching the Commission for the first quarter of 2015, during which period, 45 hearings were held. Among this number were 27 cases of irregular-

ity-persistent unpunctuality.

The TSC said it was concerned with the persistent unpunctuality of some teachers.

“Punctuality is considered as one of the main pillars of discipline and orderliness in the life of a teacher, a student and of course the society. When a teacher has a high rate of unpunctuality, it becomes an even more serious matter since it affects the programme and purpose of the education system. The student is deprived of the opportunity to benefit from a full nation-

Burton, Selman pummel “anti-woman” APNU/AFC ....urge them to “back off Elisabeth Harper”

By Devina Samaroo

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ewly minted People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) member, Africo Selman and trade unionist Gillian Burton on Sunday lashed out at the A Partnership for National Unity+ Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition insisting that they must “back off” the party’s Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper.

The sentiments were expressed to party supporters during the PPP/C’s campaign rally in Kitty on Sunday.

Since the announcement that Harper will be running as the Prime Ministerial Candidate of the PPP/C, the opposition has been consistently seeking undermining her integrity and attacking the incumbent administration for choosing her as their candidate. Their criticism has been that her lack of “political experience “ will make her an incompetent

Africo Selman

they suffered, women suffered…,” she stated.

In comparison with the PPP/C, Burton pointed out how women flourished and were able to develop themselves under their administration. In stressing on the fact that the current administration worked tirelessly to enhance the lives of women in Guyana, Burton alluded to

Gillian Burton

Prime Minister if she were to be elected at the polls. The PNC-led coalition also argued that Harper’s selection will not affect the outcome of the 2015 polls as she will be unable to garner mass electoral support.

But Burton counterattacked exposing that the PNC-led APNU/AFC has no vision for women development and women empowerment in Guyana. She reflected on her days during the PNC era when women endured the harshest of struggles as they desperately tried to gather food commodities to feed their families, and for many, it was to no avail. “Women would line up just to get some food, sometimes; they would have to fight one another just to get ahead of the line before the food runs out. They struggled,

the Women of Worth (WOW) programme which was designed to meet the needs of women in the area of business through the disbursement of soft loans. Burton spoke about other massive developments for women that have been realised under the PPP/C government, while stating that the opposition is all about “empty promises”. “Comrades we have come a long way and as women we have fought in the trenches, in the valleys, on the streets…because we believe in unity…and so to all the women today across Guyana, yours is the sacred trust to ensure that come May 11 that the young people who are not yet settled on where they want to put their X, I say to you, ours is the sacred trust to tell them their history, do not water it down, so

they can know where we came from, where we are today and where we want to take them,” Burton charged.

In further exposing the opposition as a party of fake promises, former APNU Parliamentarian Africo Selman took a stance on the PPP/C platform to share her experiences of abuse and women degradation under the Granger-led party.

“Comrades, I was abused for sending an email to David Granger outlining reasons why the APNU should support the Anti-Money Laundering Bill…I was told that young people are collateral damage when I opposed their decision to cut the budget for students loan at the University of Guyana…,” Selman stated as she told the large crowd of PPP/C supporters that the PNC-led APNU/ AFC coalition hides under a mask of democracy while using pure propaganda as a tool to convince young people that the PPP/C is bad. “Do not be deceived by the empty promises of the APNU+AFC,” she warned. She repeated that Granger was using hard working women within his party as a front to give the impression that the party respects women and has a plan for their overall development and upward mobility. But, she said, in reality, Granger wanted to relegate them to subservient roles. Selman, threw her support behind the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) back in January after claiming she experienced the worst forms of emotional, verbal and psychological abuse with the Opposition camp. Selman condemned what she called the “sheer hypocrisy” and “window dressing” occurring with the PNCR and APNU as she called on Guyanese present at the PPP/C Rally to take

a stance against the abuse, misuse and maltreatment of women in politics. “They are saying one thing and doing another. They are using women as a front and they are illtreating and sidelining them behind the scenes,” she said as she shared her own experiences with the crowd. “They want to just keep us ‘barefoot and pregnant’.”

Selman further alleged that the Opposition had no real plan for women development and it was evident from its campaign that it was less concerned about women issues as it appeared more bent on the sensational stuff which would secure political mileage.

aging undue familiarity with pupils. This led to allegations of touching/ fondling. One teacher was dismissed while two were transferred, bonded for one year and given a final warning.

Senior promotion 2015

TSC head Leila Ramson

al curriculum. In addition, a bad role model is presented to the student who would inculcate the wrong values and attitudes, including growing up not feeling morally obligated to give a full day’s work to an employer. The situation reveals that some teachers do not feel morally obligated to protect the well-being of students attending school, which is a prime responsibility.”

The Commission empathised with some explanations, but these educators were reminded that they had an obligation and a responsibility to all, including their employers and more particularly the children under their charge. They have a special responsibility to contribute to the progress and well-being of the country. Those teachers who were found guilty were penalised.

There were a few cases of young male teachers encour-

The TSC has commenced the Senior Promotion 2015 exercises in keeping with the criteria published.

Earlier this year, the TSC had reported that it had sacked some 113 teachers for various disciplinary infractions last year. According to the TSC, 703 junior appointments were made, 217 senior posts were filled and 113 teachers were dismissed. In addition, the Commission said it appointed and placed 183 trained Class I Grade I and Class III teachers from the Cyril Potter College of Education.

Meanwhile, in the exercise of its disciplinary function, the TSC said it dismissed 113 teachers including 60 who failed to give adequate statutory notice. Besides, the Commission said appropriate action was taken against teachers who left classes unattended by attending the University of Guyana without approval of release. “An increase in persistent unpunctuality and poor attendance is a sore point in education, and this practice was met by stern action by the Commission. So too was the response to improper conduct by some teachers, and complaints of financial impropriety.”

8 NEWS

tuesday, march 31, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Opposition’s proposed wage hike is empty promise – Finance Minister

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inister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh said that the APNU+AFC coalition has exposed its level of political desperation with its resort to utter promises of random “goodies”. He was at the time responding to the coalition’s recent proposals of salary and pension increases within 100 days in Office.

The Finance Minister described this recent pronouncement as even more empty promises from the Opposition camp. He said, “This is nothing short of a blatant attempt to bribe voters and is a gross insult to the Guyanese people.”

The Opposition recently announced that if elected into Office, they will institute a 13 percent across the board public service wage

Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh

increase, while old age pension will be increased to $15,000. What is worse, Minister Singh highlight-

ed, is that the members of the APNU+AFC bloc have become notorious for inconsistency; offering a different

set of “goodies” every time they speak. In the lead up to the 2011 general and regional elections, the AFC had promised a 20 percent pay increase for public servants.

Salaries and old age pension have seen steady and sustainable increases over the last 20 years under the current Administration.

In 1992, when the PPP/C took Office, public servants were in receipt of $3,137 as minimum wage. This increased to $23,204 by 2005.

In 2009, there was a six percent increase, 2010-five, 2011-eight, and five percent in 2012 and 2013. In 2014, workers earning below $50,000 were granted eight percent increase while those earning over that sum were granted five percent.

Fake cops slapped with gun, drugs possession charges

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duo was refused bail on Monday after pleading not guilty to charges of gun possession, drugs possession and a host of other criminal offences at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Twenty-six-year-old Rayon Paddy and Owen Arthur are alleged to have impersonated Police Officers several times to illegally strip commuters of their belongings.

One such known occurrence was reported by employees of the Mohandra’s Poultry Farm from Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara where almost a million dollars in cash and items were stolen from the men.

Presiding over the case was Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry who told the court that the co-accused were charged for robbery under arms. The robbery was committed against Ishmael Zama, who was relieved of a wallet, an Alcatel cellphone,

$15,000 and $900,000 cash while he was in Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara. The $900,000 was the property of Shameer Mohamed.

Also the men robbed Anand Rahaman of a Samsung cellphone valued $1000, a wallet valued $1500 and $15,000.

Ravindra Motiram also became a victim that night when the men relieved him of his wallet valued $2000 and $10,000 cash.

Magistrate SewnarineBeharry told the court that the men were also charged with being in possession of several unlicensed guns and ammunitions. She detailed that the guns ranged between a .32 revolver, and a .233 semiautomatic rifle, along with an estimated 29 rounds of matching ammunition.

In addition to the already long rap sheet, Magistrate Sewnarine-Beharry also told the court that the men were being charged with drug pos-

session, since one gram of cocaine and eight grams of cannabis was found among their belongings.

Police Prosecutor Bharat Mangru elaborated on the charges. He stated that the Mohandra employees were on their way to deliver chickens to Berbice when they were stopped at about 23:00h by the two suspects who were impersonating Police Officers.

The men were asked to exit the vehicles, where they were relieved of their possessions. The prosecutor continued by saying that the men were then placed into a canter truck where they were locked in. However, one of the employees used a metal object to pry the metal doors open and succeeded in escaping. They reported the incident to the Police station.

It was through the Police’s investigations that the men were traced to a house in Diamond, East Bank

Demerara, on March 27. A search of the premises revealed the narcotics and guns the men had in their possession.

The Prosecutor urged the court to not release the men on bail due to the seriousness of the offences and the fact that the Police believe that other charges are yet to be laid against the defendants.

Investigations are still ongoing.

However, Attorney for Paddy, Paul Fung-A-Fat, told the court that his client is not a flight risk. He said that he has a fixed place of abode in Diamond and has no criminal record to show any trouble with the law.

The court was unmoved by the pleas of the defence Attorney and the defendants were remanded. The case is set to be tried at the Mahaicony Magistrate’s Court and the Providence Magistrate’s Court.

Eyew tness No 11 % dowry... ...at Whim

Nagamootoo insists the relationship forged by him and Granger is a "marriage". And it isn't a marriage they went into on a whim!! What's now revealed is they went into a secret courtship immediately after the elections of 2011. Nagamootoo'd been nominated by the AFC for the Speakership. But Granger played "hard to get" by choosing Raphael Trotman!!

It's clear that this is an "old fashioned" marriage - a marriage of families, not just the bride and groom. The negotiations for the wedding took over a month - yet leaving a whole heap of matters still outstanding.

It was of more than passing interest that in front of his rich relatives in Queens, Nagamootoo threatened "divorce" if he didn't get what he bargained for. Those New York Guyanese are serious about women's rights!

But Nagamootoo also made promises as to what he'll bring to the marriage. Granger had proven to Nagamootoo at Linden he could bring out his 40 per cent constituency. It was now up to Nagamootoo to show that he could deliver his promised 11 per cent from his Berbice constituency.

This was going to take place at Whim - where Nagamootoo came from. To the surprise of all and sundry, Nagamootoo revealed that Granger also hailed from Whim!! He'd first made "goo-goo eyes" at the future head of the GDF (and now his political spouse), when they were both in short pants exposing their dimpled knees!

So while it was billed as a "rally" in Whim, it was really to be a good, old-fashioned Sunday night Berbice wedding: the "unity" of the families/constituencies would be on show with the tapu drums.

Granger did his bit by arriving at the head of a huge "bariiat" of his 40 per cent constituency - with gaily decorated buses from as far away as Linden. The buses blared music all the way from Georgetown. This marriage consumption wasn't going to be left to a whim!!

But sadly when Granger and his Bariiat arrived at Whim...it became clear there wasn't going to be any 11 per cewnt!! It wasn't that Nagamootoo stood up Granger - he was there with his "father" Ramjattan and his "big brother Ramaya".

But the guests from Whim and the surrounding villages - who were to be Nagamootoo's 11 per cent "dowry", were nowhere to be seen.

It's clear these folks don't approve of Nagamootoo's decision on a marriage partner. For years they were brutalised by Granger's family and they obviously didn't go for Nagamootoo's "forget and forgive" line. They know that folks get married for all kinds of reasons - including greed and ambition.

So it looks like there will be a divorce after all. Granger finally saw the "pig" in the poke.

...and identity politics

The problem with Nagamootoo is his promise to Granger to deliver votes from Berbice is based on "identity politics", but yet, simultaneously, he rejected that identity.

Nagamootoo's spent his life trying to prove he's "not an Indian Berbician". Ironically at the same time, representation of people's based on their self-expressed "identity" became accepted by mainstream politics.

"Identity" - it was conceded - played a big role in determining "interests" - which was the object of politics.

He physically left Berbice, rejected the "Berbice cadences" (which Jagan never lost) and rounded up his mouth to speak a very artificial, stilted "English". But Nagamootoo moved beyond rejecting his "Indian Berbice" identity to reject the wider "Indian Guyanese" identity.

In India, even though the folks who gave him an award explained "People of Indian Origin" was a cultural concept and didn't mean a "citizen of political India", he insisted he was "not an Indian".

The Indian Guyanese chicken came home to roost at Whim.

...and the Whim Rally

Granger's organisers obviously didn't want to risk no one showing up at Whim. So they hired all those big buses to trawl in their committed constituency. But it backfired in exposing the hollowness of the claim to "national unity"!!

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guyanatimesgy.com

tuesday, march 31, 2015

News

Taxi driver killed Guyana must invest in viable renewable energy at De Willem WCD N A taxi driver attached to the West Side Taxi Service has become the latest road fatality after he was stuck by a speeding motor car at De Willem, West Coast Demerara (WCD) on Sunday evening.

Ouditnarine Singh, also called Ravi, 37, of Lot 720 Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo, took his last breath while receiving medical attention at the Leonora Cottage Hospital, WCD. Based on information received about 23:45h on Sunday evening, the father of three left the taxi base and crossed the road to get to his car. As Singh was about to enter his car, he was stuck by the speeding car which was reportedly evading Police ranks and was at the time overtaking another vehicle.

As a result, Singh landed on top of the car, but the driver applied the brakes which caused him to be tossed under a parked truck after which the driver sped away. The car was later found abandoned at MetenMeer-Zorg, WCD. The vehicle has been impounded by Police The badly injured man was rushed to the Leonora Cottage Hospital where he subsequently died. The

Dead: Ouditnarine Singh

Guyana Times understands that the driver of the car might have been under the influence of alcohol and might have escaped a Police road block in another village.

Swatie Singh, the eldest sister of the dead man, told this publication that she was at home when she received the devastating call. She immediately rushed to the Leonora Cottage Hospital where she saw her brother’s badly damaged body lying on a bed in the accident and emergency unit.

She added that after some time, her brother took his last breath. He sustained broken arms, head injuries and other broken bones. Upon en-

quiring, she was told that her brother had just crossed the road to get his car when the driver who was presumably under the influence of alcohol hit her brother and drove off the scene without offering any assistance.

“From what they tell me, meh brother get a horrible death… he body really bruk up… he grow up fatherless, now he three children have to suffer the same way,” the woman cried. She went on to say that her brother was a poor man but never left his children wanting anything.

The last time she saw her brother alive was a little after he left home at 11:00h on Sunday. She recalled that after he left home, he went to a shop and as she looked in that direction, he waved at her.

When the Guyana Times contacted the taxi base where Singh worked up to the time of his demise, a worker recalled him joining the base about six years ago. He reiterated the events of the night when Singh died.

Meanwhile, Police in a statement said that they are investigating the fatal accident that occurred about 23:45h on the Zeeburg Public Road, WCD which resulted in the death of Singh.

atural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud has underlined Guyana’s intention of becoming a country in which renewable sources of energy are utilised to create a green economy.

He told the gathering at the World Wildlife Federation (WWF) and other partners’ Earth Hour 2015 observance at the National Park on March 28, that Guyana has demonstrated a high level of awareness of climate change and has taken several steps to reduce its carbon footprint.

The country has embarked on a Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) that puts Guyana on a pathway to development with low carbon emissions.

The Minister reiterated that Guyana was one of the few countries that have a developed low carbon development model. “This indicates political commitment and buy-in by the population that we will proceed in this direction.”

Persaud stated that Guyana’s model has been an example to the international community and doubters of an environmentally-friendly development model. “We have proven you can pursue sustainable development, that you can do the things that are climate friendly and at the same time you can grow the economy and create opportunities for our people,” he said.

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud

He pointed out that Guyana was receiving payments for the eco-services that it provided. “We have been able to put dollar figures on those concepts that many people doubted and have been sceptical about,” he said.

He highlighted the importance of the Earth Hour initiative to spreading awareness and consciousness, as well as reaffirming commitment to sustainability.

Persaud was hopeful that the country would end its dependency on fossil fuels and join the league of countries that have ended their reliance on these fuels. He said, “Before 2020, Guyana should be proud to stand up and say to all that our energy source comes from renewable sources and particularly hydro.”

The Minister said that such a move would benefit the country economically, as well as significantly reduce the country’s carbon footprint. He highlighted the fact that the country’s US$200 million fuel bill would be eliminated and the savings plugged into other sectors of the Guyanese economy. This money will be used to create green industries and further cement the country on the path to green development.

The World Earth Hour is observed each year: major cities are plunged into darkness for one hour. This year, the symbolic Light-Out was from 20:30h to 21:30h. The initiative was founded by the WWF in Australia in the year 2007. Now, the event has expanded to over 100 countries.

Man wanted for killing Victoria miner

Murdered, Charles Major

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he Guyana Police Force on Monday issued a wanted bulletin for Thurston Kenrick Williams for questioning in relation to the murder of Charles Major which occurred on March 6 at Dickman Hill, Mahdia, Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni).

Williams, 26, of Lot 9-10 Queen Street, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown, has since been implicated in the man’s

death.

Charles Major, 57, of Lot 386 Victoria Village, East Coast Demerara was viciously chopped to death during a suspected robbery along the Dickman Hill Backdam trail. Upon his discovery, several chop wounds were seen on his body and he was taken to the Mahdia Hospital Mortuary.

It was reported that the man who owned a mining camp in the area for the past 15 years was a quiet individual, so colleagues and relatives were in a state of shock at his death.

His mother, Thelma Major and siblings reportedly attempted to contact him a day prior to his discovery.

It was reported that several calls to his mobile phone went unanswered, but relatives thought that he was in the backdam and would return the call as he always did.

This time, however, was different; he never returned the call and another relative who lives in Mahdia broke the news to his immediate family on the coast.

However, based on investigations, the Police launched a manhunt for Williams who was last seen in the area.

Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest

Wanted, Thurston Kenrick Williams

of Williams is asked to contact the Police on telephone numbers 225-2722, 2261333, 225-6411, 226-9941, or 911 at the nearest Police station. All information will be treated with strict confidence.

tuesday, march 31, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

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News

Bogus cops fingered in Crum-Ewing’s murder ...Police to test guns for ballistic evidence

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s the investigation continues into the execution-style killing of Courtney Crum-Ewing, Police are now testing the gun found on the two former Police ranks who were arrested in Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara on Friday evening.

A source close to the investigation revealed that Police have reason to believe that the two men who were slapped with eight charges on Monday might have been involved in the execution since they were arrested in a house at 21st Street, Diamond.

He said that ballistic

tests were being carried out on the .32 pistol that was found in their possession at the time of arrest. The same calibre of gun was used to kill Crum-Ewing.

Once the results come back positive, 25-year-old Orin Arthur, of Block X Diamond, and 26-year-old Rayon Paddy, of Lot 278 South Ruimveldt Park, Georgetown, will face additional charges. At the time of their arrest, they had 17 .233 live rounds of ammunition and 12 live .32 rounds of ammunition along with a quantity of cocaine and marijuana.

The Police are also awaiting the results of the

tests conducted on a motor car belonging to one of the eight men who were arrested and questioned for the man’s murder. The Leopold Street man, along with the seven other men, has been released, but investigators are keeping an extra eye on him.

In addition, investigators are searching for another car believed to have been used by the perpetrators on the night CrumEwing was shot five times to his head and body while urging residents of the Diamond Housing Scheme to go out and cast their ballots on May 11. The bullhorn that the man was us-

phone records of the man’s mobile to determine the last call made.

The 41-year-old father of three was gunned down execution style on March 10 at close range.

Crum-Ewing rose to prominence after he protested for the removal of Attorney General Anil Nandlall, following the revelation of a telephone conversation, illegally recorded by Kaieteur News owner Glenn Lall, between the Attorney General and Kaieteur News reporter Leonard Gildarie.

After the shooting incident, the Home Affairs Ministry had issued a re-

lease condemning the act and requested a full investigation into the matter.

President Donald Ramotar also charged the Police to find the “Intellectual author” of Crum-Ewing’s execution.

Since his death, CrumEwing has not only been made into a martyr but a “political” martyr by the entire Opposition, their allies in the media and several civil society groups.

President Ramotar has since distanced his Administration from the murder and declared that Crum-Ewing was no threat to the governing party or the Government.

pensive than Avon but are assured to be of high quality.

Just as Avon, these five brands will have sales representatives across the country, thus paving the way for job opportunities. To date, approximately 200 persons have registered to be sales

Meanwhile, after operating in Guyana for 10 years, Avon pulled the plug on their operations in Guyana and sections of the Caribbean.

C o r p o r a t e Communication Officer for Avon Products, New York Lindsay Fox, had told this

representatives of these five products, which will soon be made available to the local market.

publication that Avon will no longer accept orders from territories in the Islands market that fall under US

distribution.

She stated that the company will now focus its resources on restoring the health of the US business to deliver future growth.

Local agents were devastated by the news as they began to worry about their livelihood.

However, in representing their commitment to Guyana, N V Beauty and Home Systems Inc embarked on this new venture which they hope would be just as successful as Avon.

Courtney Crum-Ewing

ing at the time of his demise is also being tested while Police are still awaiting the

AVON replaced by five brands N V Beauty and Home Systems Inc will implement a system where two catalogues will be made available and orders can be placed twice monthly. Only nine order calendars will be made available and clients will be required to pay 50 per cent down on their order, with the other half being paid upon delivery.

Catalogues for jewellery, perfumes, evening bags, body lotions, hair treatment, among other beauty products will be made available.

According to officials, the five new brands are more ex-

N

V Beauty and Home Systems Inc, the company that was the franchise holder for Avon Beauty Products in Guyana, has introduced five new lines of brand name beauty products to replace Avon, which pulled the plug on operations in Guyana in February of this year.

The company succeeded in securing the exclusive rights for some of the world’s leaders in skin cosmetics and beauty products including “Color Me Beautiful”, “Adrien Arpel”, “Flori Roberts”, “Gale Hayman” and “Patti La Belle”.

4 fined for drunk driving

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he Police continue their relentless pursuit of those who would drink and then drive on our roadways endangering the public, by arresting four men: Brian Giddins, Ameer Ali, John Jhoot, and Rayan Rayhar who were found to be above the legal limit of alcohol consumption. The men were all fined $7500 when they appeared in court on the charge.

Giddins, of Lot 300 A Thomas Street, Georgetown, was stopped and tested with a breathalyser on February 22 while driving motor vehicle PMM 2718 on Thomas

Street, Georgetown. He appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on February 26 when he pleaded guilty.

Ali, of Lot 82 North Klien Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara, was stopped and tested with a breathalyser on the same day while driving motor vehicle PNN 3359 on Cornhill Street, Georgetown. He appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on February 26 when he pleaded guilty.

Jhoot, of Lot 120 Kumaka Street, Sophia, Greater Georgetown, failed

his breathalyser test six days later while driving motor vehicle PNN 8758 on Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara. He appeared at the Providence Magistrate’s Court on March 5 when he pleaded guilty.

Rayhar, of One Mile Potaro Road, Bartica, on March 2 while driving motor vehicle PRR 4755 on Fourth Avenue and Fifth Street, Bartica, was stopped and tested with a breathalyser. He appeared at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court on March 4 when he admitted to the offence.

12 news

Tuesday, march 31, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Bush Lot WCB smash-up:

3 dead as speeding car rams into trucks

Dead: Guyana Defence Force Officer Jaron James

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hree men on Monday morning were killed when the car they were travelling in slammed into two parked trucks on the Golden Grove Public Road, West Coast Berbice.

Reports are that Devon Pydana, 28, of Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, Berbice, was allegedly driving a motor car at a fast rate along the Golden Grove Public Road, WCB, when he lost control of the vehicle and collided with two parked trucks. As a result of the col-

Critical: Driver Devon Pydana

lision, Pydana and the nine other occupants sustained injuries and were taken to the Fort Wellington Hospital where Tommy Thomas, 22, and Jaron James, 19, of New Amsterdam; and a so far unidentified male were pronounced dead on arrival.

Pydana and the six other occupants have been admitted to hospital as the investigations continue.

The Guyana Times was told that the dead trio along with seven other persons, including the driver, was returning from a party at Onverwagt, on the West Coast of Berbice sometime after 01:00h Monday when they slammed into the parked trucks on the roadway. The Guyana Times was told that Pydana was allegedly under the influence of alcohol and lost control of the Raum PRR 1163. The vehicle has been damaged beyond repair.

The group was said to have been swimming earlier on Sunday at a popu-

lar pool in New Amsterdam, before leaving for the West Coast Berbice night spot.

According to information, the 28-year-old Pydana had rented a car, in which he took his friends on the journey to the West Coast Berbice bar. It was on their return while he was driving at a fast rate that he lost control and slammed into the trucks. The other persons said to be in critical condition have been identified as Donelle Humphrey of New Amsterdam; Jamacie

Critical: Jamacie Munroe

Munroe, 18, of Savannah Park, New Amsterdam; Luanna Ross, 19; another man identified as Lemmon Simpson of 41 Scheme; and Janet Cameron of 39 Stanleytown.

According to a cousin of Thomas, he was made aware of the accident shortly after it occurred. Omari Bentham told this publication that he and some friends had travelled to the National Stadium to witness Guyana take on Grenada at football. He said it was just after 01:00h as they were returning to New Amsterdam they saw the damaged car off the road and a few persons around it. Inquisitively they pulled over and went towards the vehicle and then realised that they all knew the car from its rims.

They asked persons whether it was a ‘Rasta man’ driving the car.

According to Bentham after this was confirmed and they were told that all of the passengers were taken to the Fort Wellington Hospital, they rushed over. “As soon as I reached the gate a man hold me and tell me Tommy in the accident. I run inside to see if is true and I notice one person at the back and nobody looking at him… but the nurses chase us out saying we too noisy.”

He said when he was allowed to go in, he saw his cousin lying motionless and asked the doctor what was wrong with him. “The doctor told me we getting no pulse.” Reports are that Thomas was the last to be

President underscores importance of Home Economists’ work ...at cultural evening for visiting CAHE members

Delegates at the Caribbean Association of Caribbean Home Economists “Cultural Evening” at State House

Dead: Tommy Thomas

pulled from the wreckage. It appeared as if his back was broken as he was pinned down by the side of the vehicle.

Thomas’ mother, Carla Bentham, said that her son had left to go to a pool party.

Thomas, who was differently able, left home at about 20:00h on Sunday for the party. “I dress him spray up his perfume so he smell nice and watch him walk out of the street till I couldn’t see him no more,” the grieving mother said. She added that she was awakened by a sound and thought that it was her son calling on her to open the door. “I look to the back door and didn’t see him and then I hear this person still calling so I go and wake up my mother.”

According to Bentham, she heard when the message was delivered to her mother from someone standing on the road. “I get a dead news… some one of dem boys meet in accident. And then a little after Omari called.”

Meanwhile, James was employed with the Guyana Defence Force for the past nine months.

Police are carrying out investigation.

H

ead of State, President Donald Ramotar and First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar formally welcomed more than 50 delegates of the Caribbean Association of Caribbean Home Economists (CAHE) to State House as the hosts of the organisation’s ‘Cultural Night’.

The First Lady, who graciously accepted a request to be the patron of the event, thanked the participants for attending. “We are proud that CAHE are here for their 21st biennial conference which is held under the theme ‘Community partnership for economic and social empowerment of families through home economics’.

Mrs. Ramotar told the delegates that she was very pleased about the theme because her foundation champions the cause of the family which she described as the basic foundation of human societies. “We cannot expect to advance as a country or as a Caribbean society unless we have a positive, strong and prosperous family”. She added that it is only through a positive family experience that there can be a positive society that is based on strong families and high morality. She noted that “having knowledge and an understanding and appreciation of good home economics allow persons to manage their homes “and by extension our communities, quite effectively and efficiently”. Adding a good understanding of home economics concepts would

improve the quality of life for many families, the First Lady further noted. `The First Lady pointed out that, locally the Carnegie School of Home Economics has done extremely good work in turning out professionals who are dedicated to their work, and others who use new skills to start their own businesses. She chal-

today, to offer them the best choices with the resources that they have at their disposal to ensure that family nutrition is kept and also that they make good choices in their whole approach to everything, in their family lives”. He also thanked participants for their dedication they have put into their work.

Members of the Antiguan delegation performing a dramatic piece at the Caribbean Association of Caribbean Home Economists “Cultural Evening” at State House

lenged the participants to conceptualise a plan to move towards a professional designation that would add value to individuals pursing tourism based careers, address issues such as how the field can boost tourism development and the use of technology to advance home economics.

In brief remarks, President Ramotar emphasised the importance of the participants’ work noting it is very valuable in Guyana and the society, “particularly at a time when in the world

The three- day biennial conference of CAHE was initially launched in 1972, with input from a principal founder Guyanese, Magda Pollard. Home Economics teachers strategise, conduct research, share information, plan projects and undertake poster competitions during the event. Participants from Antigua, Barbados, Bahamas, Trinidad, St Vincent, Jamaica, Guyana and the United States of America are attending the event. The last conference was held in Barbados. (GINA)

“Stammer” jailed 18 years for raping nine-year-old A 43-year-old man was on Monday sentenced to 18 years imprisonment for raping a nine-yearold girl almost four years ago.

Leyrone Sandiford, called “Stammer” had pleaded guilty to the indictment when it was first read to him on March 17 before High Court judge, Justice Franklyn Holder. His guilty plea came just before the 12-member jury panel could have been empanelled.

According to the indictment, Sandiford had sexually penetrated a girl under

the age of 16 years, that being a nine-year-old girl, between May 1 and 31, 2011.

At the time, the accused was unrepresented by an attorney; however the trial judge had deferred sentencing pending the presentation of a probation report.

On Monday’s date, the report was submitted by a Probation Officer from the Human Services and Social Security Ministry.

Following the presentation of the report, Justice Holder asked Sandiford if he had anything to say before sentencing is imposed.

The man seemed as though he was about to give an explanation about what had transpired leading to his current situation. However, the presiding judge enquired from him whether he was remorseful or not.

The 43-year-old man stood in the dock and told the court that he feels “guilty” and “sorry” for his actions. Before handing down the sentence, Justice Holder told the accused that his actions were “despicable” and “reprehensible”.

The judge also said that he felt Sandiford’s actions were

calculated. The State’s case against Sandiford, which was presented by State Counsel Teshana Lake, stated that he fondled and had sexual intercourse with the young child. Justice Holder began the sentence at a base of 26 years and took off four years for the time the man spent on remand, awaiting the case to be heard. He then deduced another four years because Sandiford opted to plead guilty to the indictment and in doing so, saved the court valuable judicial time.

news

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tuesDAY, march 31, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

APNU/AFC Whim rally:

Ramjattan dozes off …during Granger’s address on security

APNU+AFC Presidential Candidate David Granger delivering at the coalition’s Whim Rally on Sunday

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ishermen in Guyana particularly those operating in the East Berbice Corentyne district of Region Six have been promised by Presidential Candidate for the PNCled A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (AFC/APNU) David Granger, greater security against sea pirates, who for years have tormented them.

On Sunday, Granger made the bold promise to a large APNU crowd bussed in from across Guyana the Rally at Whim Village on the Corentyne. Granger, a retired army commander, as part of his presentation had laid out security plans which he said would be implemented if elected.

But the focus was on the East Berbice Corentyne district and residents, much of whom are involved in agricultural practices for their livelihood. “Fifteen thousand fishermen in this country make their living by going out to sea. Corentyne depends on fishing. There are over 12,000 fishing boats, but what is happening to our fishermen, almost every week they are victims of piracy.”

Analysts were surprised at the number of fishing boats cited by Granger and wondered from where he had sourced his figure. Back in June 2013, at the Validation Workshop on the final draft of the Fisheries Department

Management Plan 2013 to 2018, held at Grand Coastal Inn, East Coast Demerara, Agriculture minister had indicated there were 1254 fishing boats of which only some 300 were registered.

Granger questioned why piracy has persisted throughout the tenure of former President Bharrat Jagdeo and now the current leadership of President Donald Ramotar. “Fishermen are going to sea and disappearing, fishermen are going to sea and their bodies are floating up on the foreshore, families are left without fathers, children abandoned because their families are killed,” he remarked.

Piracy, particularly on the Corentyne has long been a worrisome issue for residents there. Chairman of Region Six David Armogan has already expressed concerns over the rising situation. Several fishermen have lost their lives at the hands of pirates on the Corentyne/ Suriname Waters, while others have vanished without a trace. However, Granger’s complaints seemed to ignore that only last week Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee disclosed that there has been a marked drop in the incidence of sea piracy across the country. Rohee said “it is a well-established fact that a Guyana Police Force marine floating base was commissioned to operate collaborative-

ly with ranks of other Law Enforcement Agencies, and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) which has a similar floating base located at the mouth of the Pomeroon River.”

He said this $49.9 million capital investment was complemented by the procurement of a boat imported from the US costing $71.4 million, in addition to four new vessels built at a cost of $4.9 million. According to him, Government has consistently demonstrated its commitment to public safety and security and this is evident in capacity-building by way of training provided to the marine wing of the Force

lies. We are not going to in any way, close the sugar industry. If it is anybody that has ground it to the ground, it is the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).” Ramjattan said the coalition intends to make the industry “profitable again”. Doing so he related, is a necessity, as it is among the major forms of employment for Guyanese, particularly those in Berbice.

However in reference to sugar, in a letter to this newspaper Minister of Agriculture Leslie Ramsammy disputed Ramjattan’s claim: “At the 2014 budget debate I raised the issue and called on APNU and AFC to give a definitive position on the call to close the sugar indus-

end they abstained from voting against the budgetary provision for sugar.”

Ramjattan said too that rice farmers are being cheated out of the Petro Caribe deal, where administrators of the various boards reap more of the benefits.

Ramjattan went on to speak about the racial division; something he said has been peddled by the PPP/C administration. “But I am telling you, that this 2015 will be the first stage towards the resolution of that political and racial division… we must replicate this kind of thing all across the country, where in strongholds of our black brothers and sisters, we could have our Indian brothers and sisters going there and feeling secure”.

in the bussed in crowd, it appeared that Ramjattan was very prescient. Also speaking at the rally was Supriya Singh, who had disappeared for years after being a member of the PNCR. She said that the PPP/C has moved away from the principles laid out by its founding leader Dr Cheddi Jagan.

“Dr. Jagan’s vision has been smashed. His dear children Nadira and Joey have said so and have endorsed our party. There are a few persons in that party who want to uphold his visions but cannot because that party has become too rancid”. But peaking at the Party’s weekly press conference last week General Secretary Clement Rohee reiterated that the party

Ramjattan sleeps

Meanwhile Alliance for Change (AFC) leader Khemraj Ramjattan who fell asleep on the platform while Granger was speaking told the crowd, of which a large percentage were from outside Berbice, that their presence at the rally spoke well of their desire to see change in a country that has been ruined by the PPP/C Government. He spoke directly to what he described as the dying rice and sugar industries; the foundation of Guyana’s economy. “I want to tell you that the propaganda that you are hearing that the APNU+AFC coalition is going to grind those industries to the dirt, is all

Members of the APNU+AFC coalition seated on the platfrom

try. Neither party heeded my call and ignored my request for them to tell us during the budget debate if they wanted to close the industry.

But APNU voted against a PPP/C budget provision to support the sugar industry.

AFC abstained from that vote, playing politics, but the AFC never disassociated itself from Ramjattan’s support of the call made at the APNU press conference to close sugar. They buckled under pressure that they will have to explain to the sugar workers and in the

This he said can be done only, in an APNU+AFC government, “a government that is made up of the wise counsels of two biblical minds as it were, David and Moses. He said “ethnic cleavages remain a source of disaster in Guyana. Just a month before he changed his mind, Ramjattan had claimed if the AFC coalesced with APNU, it would become “dead meat” because it’s Indian Guyanese supporters in Berbice would desert it in droves. From the sprinkling of Indian Berbicians

was dismayed by the statements made by a number of “born again democrats” who are seeking to create the impression that the PPP/C has departed from the core values and principles of its founder, Dr Cheddi Jagan.

“Nothing could be further from the truth. Indeed the Jagan legacy continues to grow as it remains the bedrock on which all the decisions, programmes and policies are being made, both at the levels of the Party and Government,” Rohee told media operatives.

GRA urges citizens to take advantage of Diamond tax centre

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he Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is urging all taxpayers residing or traversing along the East Bank Demerara (EBD) route to take full advantage of the tax centre in Diamond, EBD, which will be opened on April 1.

In the midst of the busy tax season, GRA will be making a further expansion of its services to facilitate the convenience of taxpayers with the tax centre on the ground floor of G3 Building.

The long-term plan is

to create tax centres across the country, particularly in densely populated areas, to make it more convenient for the Guyanese population to pay their taxes. Taxpayers will be able to file Income, Property, Corporation and other tax returns, request compliance and apply for Mortgage Interest Relief (MIR) and their Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TIN) at the tax centres.

Additionally, a tax specialist will also be assigned to answer all questions persons may have relating to

Acting Public Relations Manager Melissa Baird

tax payments.

Acting Public Relations Manager, Melissa Baird told reporters during a media briefing that the GRA will include more services as the need arises.

According to Baird, the tax centres will be beneficial as it will reduce the need for taxpayers to travel all the way to the GRA Headquarters in Georgetown to access services.

April 30 is the statutory deadline for the submission of Individual Income,

Property, Corporation and Capital Gains taxes.

Taxpayers can also visit GRA Regional Offices at Parika in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), New Amsterdam and Corriverton in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), Bartica in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), Lethem in Region Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo), and Linden in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) to make their submissions.

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guyanatimesgy.com

TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2015

Regional

Cops in Jamaica seize guns, rocket Caribbean Governments urged launcher, ammo in traffic check

The weapons and assorted ammunition recovered by Trelawny cops on Sunday

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he Trelawny Police have taken two men into custody in connection with the recovery of 11 illegal firearms, a rocket launcher and more than 300 rounds of assorted ammunition which were

hidden in a barrel being transported by a pickup on Sunday.

According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Odean Dennis, at about 10:00h, members of the Trelawny Highway Patrol

were on a stop-and-search operation on the Scarlett Hall main road in the parish when the driver of a motor vehicle was ordered to stop.

A search of the vehicle yielded: one 40 mm rock-

et launcher; an M-16, a Kalashnikov, and a sniper rifle; two 9mm pistols and a .45 pistol; a Uzi and an Intratech sub-machine gun; and two shotguns.

The names of the two persons taken into custody have been withheld pending further investigation.

Meanwhile, Sunday’s arms recovery brings to 16 the number of illegal guns recovered by the Trelawny Police since the start of the year.

Deputy Superintendent Dennis, who is the crime officer for the Trelawny Police Division, argued that had it not been for the vigilance of the Police, the weapons would have slipped through the Police dragnet as motorists signalled the presence of the Police to the driver of the motor vehicle transporting the illegal weapons. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

to pass proceeds of crime legislation

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hose Caribbean governments that have not yet passed proceeds of crime legislation are being urged to do so.

Consul general at the US Embassy, Mark Bysfield, made this call on Friday while addressing the official opening of the Regional Security System (RSS) Council of Ministers’ Meeting in Barbados.

Those present included Barbados Prime Minister Freundel Stuart, prime minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr Timothy Harris, and chairman of RSS and minister of justice, immigration and national security in Dominica, Rayburn Blackmoore.

Bysfield said that four member states – Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica and St Vincent –

had passed civil asset forfeiture legislation.

“We anticipate that the first successful prosecutions of civil asset forfeiture cases will occur this year. Civil asset recovery legislation deprives drug traffickers and other criminals of the incentive to bring their operations to your shores.

“Our model law includes a dedicated forfeiture fund, which requires that 100 per cent of all seized proceeds go back to support police, prosecutors, victim restitution, substance abuse prevention and payment of RSS dues,” he explained.

He insisted that civil asset recovery could be used to fund the commitments of regional governments to the RSS, while attacking the wallets of drug cartels. (Excerpt

Chile floods death toll rises to 17 as clean-up begins No place for politics

Almost 11,000 people have been affected and more than 4500 are in shelters

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fficials in Chile said 17 people were killed and 20 were still missing after flash floods devastated the Atacama region in the north of the country last

week.

The rains, which started on Tuesday, were the worst in 80 years to fall in the region, one of the driest on Earth.

Almost 11,000 people have

been affected and more than 4500 are in shelters. Interior Minister Rodrigo Penailillo said entire towns had been left without drinking water.

“We as a country will

Browne says Liat CEO must go

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rime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne has effectively called for the resignation of the CEO of Leeward Islands Air Transport (Liat), David Evans.

The leader of the second largest shareholder Government made the call on Sunday on the Governmentaligned media house, in response to plans, reportedly, by the management of the airline to dissolve the carrier.

“I certainly will be calling in Mr Evans very shortly to discuss with him exactly where that plan emanated from,” Browne said.

“He needs to tell me, as the Prime Minister of this country and the Prime Minister of a shareholding Government

where that plan emanated from, and if it is that he hatched that plan on his own, you can be assured that as Prime Minister of this country, that as a shareholder of Liat, that I will be asking for his resignation.”

Browne said cash-strapped Liats’s struggles have existed for decades and that fault for its dismal state lies squarely at the feet of its directors, who he believes should step down as well.

“We accept that there are legacy issues and that they should be fixed,” he said. “…

The current Board of Directors, including Mr Evans, undertook to fix those legacy issues.

So, if it is that they can’t handle the job, then they ought to resign,” Browne said. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

have to put a lot of effort in to get out of this situation,” Penailillo said. Rivers burst their banks after heavy rains in the Andes sent floodwater down into the valleys and towns below. The desert town of Chanaral was among the hardest hit with rivers of mud covering many of its streets.

In Tierra Amarilla, emergency workers rescued 13 miners who had been cut off in a remote mining camp for five days. The search for 20 people still missing continues.

Among the thousands who lost their home is Victor Zamora, one of the Chilean miners who was trapped underground for 69 days in 2010.

He told local media that he had lost everything. “It’s a tragedy,” he said. (Excerpt from BBC

News)

St Kitts-Nevis and Brazil sign visa waiver accord

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he St Kitts-Nevis Government says the signing of a visa waiver agreement with Brazil is part of the initiatives to boost economic growth as well as promote trade and investment in the twin island Federation.

The Government said that the accord signed on January 20 went into effect earlier this month.

It allows for citizens to be exempt from “visa requirements to enter, leave, transit through and stay in the territory of the Federative Republic of Brazil, for purposes of tourism or business, for a period not exceeding 90

days”.

The waiver is renewable for an additional period of up to 90 days, provided the total length of stay shall not exceed 180 days per 12 month period, from the date of first entry,’ the Government statement said.

“This agreement augurs well for the bilateral relationship between both countries and it forms part of the ongoing initiatives of the Government of St Kitts and Nevis to boost economic growth, promote and increase trade and investment and facilitate travel,” the statement added. (Antigua

Observer)

from Caribbean News Now)

in Law Association: Armour to keep body impartial

President-elect of the Law Association Reginald Armour

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olitics has no place in the Law Association and President-elect Reginald Armour is vowing to ensure it remains that way. As Armour readies himself to take up the mantle of leadership next week, he says he is determined to fiercely maintain the independence of the association and remove any doubt about its impartiality. “There will be no politics in the Law Association. I do not intend to allow partisan national politics to affect or to impact the Law Association. We are going to call a spade a spade and who the cap fits we will pull the string,” Armour told the TT Guardian.

Armour, who returned to TT on Thursday from the UK, after a successful appearance before the Privy Council, said he was eager to start reforming the im-

age of the Association. He will be formally installed as President next week when the Association’s election results are published in the Gazette. At present, former Association head Jairam Seenath, SC, remains in charge. Armour explained that the newly-elected council has scheduled its first meeting for April 14.

The senior counsel, a married father of two, in his first sit down interview since his victory at the Association’s elections two Fridays ago, said, “I think it is important that we, myself and the council, make every effort that we can to put the stamp on the council and the Law Association as being non-partisan.” He said in his tenure he intends to return the association to its position of prominence on issues of national importance. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

15

International

Buhari gains early ground Iran nuclear talks intensify amid Nigeria vote tally fears as key deadline closes in

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alks have resumed in Switzerland ahead of today’s deadline for a preliminary nuclear deal with Iran.

Foreign ministers from six world powers are meeting their Iranian counterpart, amid hopes of a breakthrough after almost 18 months of negotiations.

They want to impose limits that would prevent Iran from producing enough fuel for a nuclear weapon within a year.

Iran, which insists its nuclear programme is peaceful, wants to see crip-

The United Nations and the African Union said the vote was broadly in line with “continental and regional principles” [Reuters]

R

esults from Nigeria’s elections, potentially the closest contest since the end of military rule in 1999, are trickling in after a weekend vote marred by confusion, arguments and sporadic violence.

The electoral commission begin declaring states on Monday with the Opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), the party of presidential challenger Muhammadu Buhari, taking the most votes in Oyo, Kogi, Kwara, Katsina, Kaduna, Osun, Kano, Jigawa and Ondo states.

The ruling PDP took the most votes in Nasawara, Ekiti, Enugu, Abia and Anambra states and the FCT (Federal Capital Territory).

Results from each of the 36 federal states plus the FCT were being tallied at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, the capital.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was expected to announce the final results very late on Monday or in the early hours of today.

On Sunday, protesters in Rivers state, the headquarters of Africa’s biggest oil industry, declared the voting as fraudulent.

The United Nations and the African Union, which both had election observers on the ground, said the vote in Africa’s most populous nation was broadly in

line with “continental and regional principles”.

“The AUEOM (African Union Election Observation Mission) encourages all parties to resort to legally established channels, should there be a dispute on the outcome of the process,” it said in a statement.

“The AU long-term observers will continue to observe the post-electoral process.”

The election pits President Goodluck Jonathan, 57, against 72-year-old former military ruler Muhammadu Buhari for the favour of an electorate divided along a complex mix of ethnic, regional and in some cases religious lines.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

1 dead after car rams gate of NSA headquarters in US

pling sanctions lifted in return.

Iranian and Western officials have said that a deal is possible, but that some issues are still to be resolved.

The negotiations in Lausanne were expected to intensify on Monday, with foreign ministers from the so-called P5+1 – comprising the US, UK, France, China, Russia and Germany – meeting Iran’s Mohammad Javad Zarif.

The EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini is also there.

A

t least 40 people have been killed in an attack on a camp for internally displaced people in north Yemen, as a Saudi-led coalition continued to strike Houthi targets around the country for a fifth day.

Several sources said an airstrike on Monday struck the Al-Mazraq camp in the north-western province of Hajjah, close to the Saudi border, but Yemen’s Foreign Minister, Riyadh Yasin, insisted it was caused by Houthi artillery fire.

Pablo Marco, the manager of the Doctors Without

Borders (MSF) programme in the Middle East, said: “It was an air strike”, adding that dozens of Yemenis were injured.

“People in Al-Mazraq camp have been living in very harsh conditions since 2009, and now they have suffered the consequences of an airstrike.”

Houthi-run al-Masirah TV showed blurred footage from the aftermath of the attack purporting to show the bodies of the victims.

Meanwhile, witnesses told the AP news agency that while the camp used to house people displaced by an earlier con-

ne person has been killed and a second seriously wounded after two men tried to ram a car through a gate leading to the National Security Agency (NSA) headquarters, US officials have said.

The NSA said on Monday that one of the men died after a firefight ensued at Fort Meade in the US city of Maryland.

“Just after 9am [13:00 GMT] today, one person was killed and another injured when they attempted to drive a vehicle into the

hina has joined South Korea and Japan in stopping Thailand-based airlines from flying charters and new routes because of safety concerns highlighted by an international audit, Thai officials said on Monday.

The move will come as a blow to Thai air carriers that have just begun to recover after a poor 2014 when political protests slashed the number of tourists visiting the Southeast

O

flict that ended five years ago, it was now occupied

by Houthi forces and that most of those killed were fighters.

When asked about the allegations, Brigadier General Ahmed al-Asiri, a spokesman for the Arab coalition, said the kingdom was seeking clarification on the incident.

“It could have been that the fighter jets replied to fire, and we cannot confirm that it was a refugee camp,” Asiri said.

“We will ask the Yemeni official agencies to confirm that,” he told reporters.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

China, Japan, South Korea halt Thai air route expansion on safety concerns

The men were reportedly disguised as women and were in a stolen car, news reports said [AP]

ing army installation near Baltimore, was not believed to be linked to terrorism and was contained.

A building on the NSA campus was damaged by gunfire earlier this month, with authorities capturing a man on March 3 who they believe fired that night on the NSA site, as well as earlier at several nearby places and two moving vehicles.

The suspect in that case, Hong Young, told Police he heard voices directing him to fire on one of the occupied vehicles. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Many dead in ‘airstrike on refugee camp’ in north Yemen

Significant safety concerns had been uncovered during an audit of Thailand’s civil aviation authority by the Montréal-based International Civil Aviation Organisation

National Security Agency portion of the installation without authorisation,” the agency said.

“NSA security personnel prevented them from gaining access to the installation.”

NBC news, quoting sources, said the men, disguised as women, were in a stolen car. A guard shot at least one of the men and a gun and drugs were found in the vehicle, a Ford Escape.

An FBI spokeswoman later said that the incident at Fort Meade, a sprawl-

They are aiming to agree on a political framework by tonight that would set the stage for talks on the technical details of a comprehensive accord, due by 30 June.

“We are here because we believe a deal can be done,” UK Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond told reporters as he arrived in Lausanne on Sunday night.

“But it has to be a deal which puts the bomb beyond Iran’s reach,” he added. “There can’t be any compromise about that.”

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Asian country.

The halt is disrupting the peak travel season around the Thai New Year holiday in April. About 100 charter flights to Japan alone have been cancelled and some 30,000 tickets either refunded or modified, Somchai Piputwat, the Director General of Thailand’s Department of Civil Aviation (DCA), told reporters on Monday.

Budget carriers have been worst hit, Thai officials said, though nation-

al carrier Thai Airways International, which is in the midst of a major restructuring, has also been prevented from expanding because of the halt.

Significant safety concerns had been uncovered during an audit of Thailand’s civil aviation authority by the Montréalbased International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

The source said the ICAO’s concerns revolved around the issue of operator certificates to carriers by the Thai authority. While the ICAO cannot “downgrade” states, its audits identify concerns that could lead countries to take steps such as banning flights.

“The audit revealed some safety concerns, primarily relating to air operator certification procedures,” ICAO spokesman Anthony Philbin said in an email, adding that Thailand had submitted a plan to the ICAO to correct the issues identified. (Excerpt from Reuters)

16 news

tuesday, march 31, 2015| guyanatimesGY.com

13th Pakaraima Safari sees record participation the base of the Pakaraimas Mountain Range, where the middle point, the Orinduik Falls are located.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds; Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Director Indranauth Haralsingh; and former Local Government and Regional Development Minister Harripersaud Nokta, who spearheaded the development of the event, were at the launch.

The GTA Director noted that the Safari was “the most adventurous trip in Guyana”, taking participants through some of the most pristine and beautiful parts of Guyana. He added

The convoy all lined up before departure

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he 13th Pakaraima Safari started out on its 851-kilometre trip from Georgetown to Orinduik Falls and back on Saturday, departing the Regent Street Guyoil Gas Station at 01:00h.

The Safari, one of the landmark events of the local

tourism calendar, saw record participation, with the convoy comprising 26 motor vehicles and eight motorcycles – the most yet for the rugged adventure.

The record participation was hailed, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

The safari goers who come from Guyana, Jamaica, Germany and Holland will pass through Karasabai, Tiperu, Rukomoto, Morabaiko, Yurong Paru, Monkey Mountain, Paramakatoi, Kato, Kurukubaru, and Itabac, before arriving at

OAS opens Model General Assembly for University Students

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he Chair of the Permanent Council of the Organization of American States (OAS) and Permanent Representative of Suriname to the OAS, Niermala Badrising, today opened the 2015 edition of the Model General Assembly of the Organization for university students at the headquarters of the hemispheric institution in Washington DC. The event, organised together with the Institute for

Diplomatic Dialogue in the Americas (IDDA), and which will take place until Friday, April 3, is a simulation exercise in which students from across the Hemisphere represent diplomats from OAS member states and debate resolutions on the current issues of the Inter-American agenda.

The model Assemblies promote knowledge about the institution at the various levels of university ed-

ucation, as well as the development of leadership in the students, their ability to negotiate, work in teams, and resolve conflicts. In addition to the Chair of the Permanent Council, the opening of the event included the participation of the Director of the Department of International Affairs of the OAS, Jane Thery; and Profession Darío Pereyra of the Universidad Nacional de La Matanza of Argentina.

that other routes are being explored for safaris.

Hinds, who has been a frequent participant in the Safari, described it as “interesting and challenging”, especially for beginners.

He did not spare the chance to praise Nokta for his work on the event. “It was Harripersaud working with the villages, working with the people along the way (route) and getting them in the first years to manually improve the walking trails so that the vehicles could come by [that made the Safari possible],” the Prime Minister said.

Today the journey is

much smoother, “an indication of how the country is being opened up”, he added.

The Safari is a collaborative effort of the Tourism Ministry, the GTA and Rainforest Tours. It is a 10day journey through the interior of Guyana, exposing participants to nature and community-based tourism Guyanese style. They travel by day through the rough and rugged terrain and rest at night in hammocks or makeshift beds.

Participants get to test their outdoor, cooking and organisational skills and participate in numerous outreaches and school visits as well.

Convicted felon yells foul when given 2-year sentence

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30-year-old shop owner vehemently shouted in a courtroom of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Monday when he was given a sentence of two years by Magistrate Fabayo Azore for robbery under arms.

Jimmy Meyers was not even out of the prisoner’s chute when he started to cry foul at the Magistrate’s decision to sentence him to two years and four months in jail.

Pedestrians passing the courtroom could be seen stopping to wonder at the anguished cries that were coming from the building. Meyer’s wife could be seen in a state of disbelief as she exited Court Five when the verdict was given. Silent tears rand down her eyes as Meyers continued

to rant at the Magistrate, the Policemen and the court system for making him have to face imprisonment for another two years and four months.

Meyers was found guilty of robbing businessman Deryck Khan, on October 17, 2014 on Regent Street, Georgetown. The Police report indicated that on the day of the incident, Khan went to Scotiabank on Robb Street to withdrawn $2 million since he had business to transact with a store on Regent Street.

Meyers, with an accomplice, found him at the store on Regent Street and with the gun in his hand confronted Khan. The defendant attempted to snatch the bag which contained the money; however, the businessman put up a fight and

kept hold of the bag. Meyers shot a round in the air and escaped with his accomplice on a motorcycle.

Khan reported the matter and an investigation was launched which led to the defendant’s East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, home. He was arrested and positively identified by the VC. Meyers Attorney, Gordon Gilroy tried to work a defence that his client was not there when the offence occurred and thus had no knowledge of it.

However, Police Prosecutor Simone Payne presented several witnesses who were able to prove beyond reasonable doubt that Meyers was the one who robbed Khan on October 17, 2014.

Caribbean countries must make budget adjustments – IDB

M

any Latin American and Caribbean countries need to make budget adjustments in the face of rising fiscal imbalances and higher financial risks, according to the Inter-American Development Bank’s annual macroeconomic report issued on Monday.

The 2015 report addresses the question of how budgets should be adjusted and how fast, and projects a baseline annual growth scenario for 2016-2019 of 3 percent, on par with the 1990s but below the 4.7 percent registered during the pre-crisis 2003-2008 period. Additional negative external shocks in China, Japan and Europe could further erode economic growth.

On the bright side, stronger U.S. growth and lower commodity prices, including oil, may give a boost to countries that import energy and have strong trade ties with the United States. “Latin America and the Caribbean has performed well in the years that followed the global financial crisis, increasing fiscal spending to fuel economic growth,” said IDB Chief Economist José Juan Ruiz. “But lower commodity prices and higher inflexible spending are threat-

ening to erode many of the gains.

Countries will need to find ways to enhance revenues and the efficiency of spending while they protect social gains.”

The report – The Labyrinth, How Can Latin America and the Caribbean Navigate the Global Economy – points to common trends affecting the entire region but also provides analysis for the specific situations faced by individual nations, and provides policy suggestions going forward. It was issued during the IDB’s Annual Meeting held in Busan, Korea.

The slowdown in growth comes amid rising inflation in some countries, which will constrain their ability to use exchange depreciations to respond to negative shocks. At the same time, corporate bond amortizations are expected to rise annually to $64 billion in 2020, the majority in dollars. Dollar issuance soared in recent years but is now falling and may fall below the level of required payments.

Commodity winners and losers

From 2011 to date, metal prices have fallen 44 percent, food prices have declined 20 percent and oil has plunged 59 percent.

IDB Chief Economist José Juan Ruiz

While commodity prices are subject to volatility, the report does not foresee prices bouncing back to their previous highs anytime soon. For nine commodity-dependent countries, the average decline in fiscal revenue is 9 percent in the baseline scenario, ranging from a 2 percent drop for Peru to over 10 percent for Trinidad and Tobago, Ecuador, and Venezuela.

Impacts vary on the trade bal-

ance. The winners are 11 countries in Central America and the Caribbean that will enjoy net positive effects larger than 1.5 percent of GDP from commodity price declines. Countries such as Brazil and Mexico will see mild negative effects while Bolivia, Trinidad and Tobago, Colombia, Venezuela and Ecuador will be harder hit.

For the fourth year in a row, the structural primary fiscal budget was in negative territory, -1.1 percent of GDP in 2014. Since 2010 the structural primary fiscal balance has improved in only 6 of 20 countries. Eleven countries – accounting for 58.5 percent of the region’s GDP – should make fiscal adjustments to avoid higher debt levels.

The right fiscal adjustment will vary across countries. Dialing back spending may be difficult for many in the region. Over seven years, primary public spending has grown 3.7 percent of GDP, of which 2.7 percentage points are on inflexible items such as wages, subsidies and transfers. Those with high tax intakes may be better off reducing spending, while those with low fiscal revenues as a proportion of GDP will be better served by widening the tax base,

removing tax subsidies and exceptions, and improving tax administration. Low energy prices offer an opportunity to consider green taxes that also bring environmental benefits. Countries can also put their resources to better use.

In health, the region is between 12 and 44 percentage points below the most efficient country in generating healthy life expectancy with given resources. In education, spending has risen from 4.2 percent to 5.6 percent of GDP in 13 years, with little evidence of better effectiveness.

Almost one in four of the region’s inhabitants benefit from conditional cash transfers, but many programmes can better target the extreme poor. “Many countries are facing difficult tradeoffs.

On the one hand higher productivity is required to boost potential growth but on the other, given lackluster world prospects, the arithmetic of debt sustainability must be carefully monitored,” said Andrew Powell, the coordinator of the report for the IDB. “Consolidation efforts must be carefully calibrated in terms of both composition and timing to navigate the months and years ahead.”

17

news

tuesDAY, march 31, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Govt lauds India’s contributions through ITEC programme

T

he Government of Guyana has expressed its gratitude to the Indian Government for the contributions made in developing the capacity of Guyanese professionals in various fields.

For the past 30 years, the Government of India has been supporting Guyanese nationals by granting scholarships under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme. The programme was established in India in 1965 for bilateral assistance to developing countries. It aims

Restaurant, where several Government officials were present along with ITEC alumni for a special luncheon.

Speaking at the event, High Commissioner V e n k a t a c h a l a m Mahalingam pointed out that while the feedback of the ITEC programme has been well received by Guyana, the country has not taken full advantage of the initiative.

“We would like to see a 100 per cent utilisation of the ITEC seats allotted to Guyana and the Caricom Secretariat as

utilisation of ITEC seats will go a long way in capacity building, institutional building and also in helping technological and economical advancement of our partners,” the Indian High Commissioner to Guyana said.

Mahalingam disclosed that more than 600 persons from Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, St Kitts and Nevis, along with others from Caricom, have been trained under the programme thus far. He noted too that India has given technical assistance to some 36 countries in the

Public Service Minister Jennifer Westford, Prime Minister Sam Hinds and Indian High Commissioner Venkatachalam Mahalingam at ITEC Day observance

and Extension Institute (NAREI) and was now working along with the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB).

Aspects of collaboration

A section of the specially invited guests at the ITEC Day luncheon at Aagman Restaurant

at sharing the gains made

by India in socio-economic fields and its technological advancements with partner countries.

On Monday, the Indian High Commission in Guyana celebrated ITEC Day at the Aagman

well as the two other countries. I would like to urge more nominations for these courses in a timely manner so as to use the complete quota of seats allotted to Guyana, Caricom, St Kitts and Nevis, and Antigua and Barbuda. I’m sure such

Latin America, Caribbean, and Central America.

As it relates to Guyana, Mahalingam said that ITEC currently has an agriculture expert in the country who had done some work with the National Agricultural Research

The Indian High Commissioner further outlined that some of the other aspects of collaboration under the programme include project development, coconut production, legal drafting, telecast and telecommunication, agronomic services and disaster management.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sam Hinds expressed his gratitude to the Indian Government for its support through the ITEC programme. He noted that Guyana and Indian have shared a sound relationship mainly because of ancestral ties, adding that with initiatives such as the ITEC programme the relationship will continue to grow.

“We are pleased to have the support of ITEC from the very start, it’s very early years… ITEC has been a great benefit to us here in Guyana. We want to thank you too for flow of experts from India who have been coming here, not only in the area of agriculture but in my time, in the area of communication, we also had a gentleman who spent two years with us in our National Frequency Management Unit, so I want to commend this programme,” Hinds stated.

The Prime Minister went on to recognise that the ITEC programme not only educated but gave participants the opportunity to interact with nationals from other countries around the world.

Public Service Minister Jennifer Westford noted that the ITEC programme has allowed Guyanese in the Public Sector the opportunity to further de-

velop themselves in their fields.

“We don’t have any sector within the Government that offers services which we don’t have persons that were trained in India and I must say that you have left an indelible mark on the Public Sector. We have learnt a lot and there have been lots of improvements.

We’re hoping and we know we are going to continue to receive such assistance from you and we are going to be taking them up. I’m going to tell you that we have seen positive changes,” the Minister stated.

Westford also voiced her appreciation to the Indian Government for unswervingly ensuring over the years that Guyanese were given this opportunity. She noted that a recent review of the countries from whose training programmes Guyana benefited revealed that India was at the top of the list.

“Viability of gold industry becoming difficult” – Harding … low declarations a result of market

BY GOMATIE GANGADIN

I

t is becoming more and more difficult for gold miners to ply their trade with the current prices on the world market and with the country recording a drop in gold declarations by more than 30 per cent last year.

This is according to the President of the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) Patrick Harding who spoke to Guyana Times on Monday. According to Harding, just one week after the Guyana Gold Board (GGB) announced that there has been an increase in gold prices on the international market since the beginning of February 2015, the price has again dropped. He noted that while the prices has again dropped and may possibly rise again, he does not believe that it will rise to anything significant. “It is not going to grow more than $1250,” Harding said.

While 2015 began with the price of gold quoted by the London Fix at US$1184.25, the market prices initially fluctuated within a US$1140 to US$1190 before slipping back to $1181.80 an ounce

as of Monday, March 30.

Harding related that despite the highs and lows, 2013 was the year which proved to be the one with the highest gold declaration figure where as this year was “a trying time” for the miners since the challenges and financial obligations were still too many.

“At the beginning of 2014, there was a crisis because you would have used up all your savings, the new investors and persons entering into the industry were finding it to be a difficult because the prices remained high, the prices for fuel, the price for spare parts, transportation; all the factors of production remained high while the drop in price remained. We haven’t had a robust start since the year began…,” Harding explained.

Total gold declaration at December 20, 2014 decreased by 22.61 per cent when compared to 2013, while gold purchased by the Guyana Gold Board had decreased by 41.24 per cent for the same period. In 2013, the gold industry declared a total of 481,087 ounces of gold which represented a 9.7 per cent increase over the

GGDMA President Patrick Harding

previous year’s figure.

Meanwhile, according to Harding, while 2014 generally saw a low declaration; when the first two months of 2014 were compared to January and February of 2015, declarations for this year so far are lower.

According to him, the low declarations have stemmed from the fact that the industry has become so impossible for some to survive that they have either dropped out completely or they have not yet re-entered for the year. As such, the production in the sector and consequently, the declarations,

will be low. He noted that apart from the miners being vastly affected, the present low price of gold is also creating a wave effect in all sectors directly and indirectly.

“Equipment sales are down... that’s the spare parts people and the other executive member is made up of all dealers of spare parts and their sales are down by approximately 30 per cent so the ripple effect is that the whole economy is feeling it, the butcher, right up to the heavy-duty machinery dealers. Even the airlines are saying that their charters are down; the truck transportation people are not getting work so it is having an effect all across,” the GGDMA President expressed.

Meanwhile, he noted that for those who are still plying the trade despite the challenges, the body will still continue to lobby for concessions since the cost of production is at an all time high while the profits remain low.

“When the price was at $1700, we were asking for concessions and now it is at a little under $1200 so we will go ahead with our requests. The cost of production is always going up and we are not being able to make or get anything in return so we will push for the

concessions,” Harding explained.

During a recent meeting with Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Robert Persaud and all stakeholders, the measures needed to ensure the sector’s viability into 2015 and beyond were discussed and announcements made.

At that meeting, a 10 per cent reduction in tax for diesel fuel imported for the sector which was requested by the miners was approved, with the necessary measures put in place with relevant agencies such as the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). The cost of fuel has often been cited as the largest expenditure for miners, often around 40 per cent of production cost. A licence was also granted to GGDMA to import fuel for use within the sector. There was also a proposal to examine the granting of duty-free concessions to miners whose operations exceeded a certain level of production, and this too has been approved.

Meanwhile, the GGB is urging all producers and other holders of gold to sell and declare the gold in their possession noting that in order for the declaration to be encouraged, the Government of Guyana has approved duty-free waivers for the

importation of various required vehicles for gold producers, Harding noted that it was not the fault of the miners that the declaration has been low.

“We don’t want to make a premature statement with regards to the low declarations but it is not a case of the miners hiding anything or not declaring anything. It is as a result of two things: one is that they are coming out of the industry while some haven’t started back as yet. No one can really afford to survive out there.

He noted that while it is worrying that the declarations have dropped by 30 per cent and the industry is becoming seemingly impossible to survive in, the GGMC and the GGDMA have been making it a priority to find ways in which they can encourage people to come back and to stay to make the industry viable.

Gold exports for the 2013 fiscal year amounted to US$648.5 million, a 9.5 per cent decline compared to 2012. The sharp decline was linked to the average price of US$1344 per ounce compared to US$1575 in 2012, negating the six per cent increase in export volume, which amounted to 482,527 ounces.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

Tuesday, march 31, 2015

ARCHIE

Be proactive. Professional and financial gains are like(March 21- ly if you share your creApril 19) ative ideas and enlist people who can help you make your dreams become reality.

ARIES

Stubbornness will be your TAURUS downfall. Go the extra mile (April 20required to keep the peace May 20) with family members and colleagues. Unless you are asked, keep your opinions to yourself.

dilbert

Love and romance are in GEMINI the air. The person who holds (May 21a special place in your heart June 20) could be looking for a solid commitment. Candidly share your feelings and dreams.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

Work independently today. Trying to explain yourself to others will slow down your progress and lead to interference and frustration.

Protect your position and your possessions.

Envision the future you LEO desire. Make personal or pro(July 23fessional changes that will Aug. 22) bring you closer to your goals.

Improvements to your education will lead to greater prosperity.

Calvin and Hobbes

Lighten up and do your VIRGO best to have fun. If you are (Aug. 23feeling unhappy or bored, get Sept. 22) together with someone who makes you smile. Dwelling on past mistakes or regrets will lead to depression.

LIBRA Make the most of your viv(Sept. 23- id imagination and delve into Oct. 23) a new creative project. Family members may be extra sensitive, so find a quiet corner and busy yourself doing something you enjoy.

SUDOKU

Despite your high enerSCORPIO gy level, it’s important that (Oct. 24Nov. 22) you don’t take on more than you can reasonably handle.

Say no to anyone putting too many demands on your time.

The opposition will have SAGITTARIUS trouble keeping up with you (Nov. 23- if you take action and follow Dec. 21) through on the ideas that you’ve been harboring. The time is right to forge ahead.

Make deals or form partCAPRICORN nerships that will improve (Dec. 22- your financial position or staJan. 19) tus. Solid long-term investments will help add more stability to your life and future.

Monday's solution AQUARIUS

You will make new friends and connect with influential (Jan. 20- people if you get involved in Feb. 19) educational or business pursuits. Sign up for seminars that offer networking opportunities.

PISCES If your skills are not being (Feb. 20- put to the best use, consider March 20) working for yourself or applying for higher positions. The activities that stimulate and inspire you the most will improve your financial position.

tuesday, march 31, 2015

Milo Under-20 School Football Tournament...

Stage set for grand finale

CPL, El Dorado to reveal details of partnership today T

he Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and El Dorado will be hosting a joint press briefing in The Oasis at the Pegasus Hotel today from 13:00h.

The event will be held to announce the continuation of the sponsorship partnership between CPL and El Dorado as well as the official accoutrement in Guyana along with the schedule of the CPL 2015 Tournament.

Dolphin Secondary Captain Shawn Mohammed (left) and Chase Academy Captain Kareem Knights hold the winning trophy they will be battling for in the presence of sponsors, organisers and teachers

By Treiston Joseph

T

he grand finale of the Milo Under-20 School Football Tournament will be held today at the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue.

In an effort to start the final with a bang, the Petra Organisation and main sponsor Beepat under the Milo brand held a press conference on Monday to hype the final match-up between match favourites Chase Academy and underdogs

Dolphin Secondary School.

Milo Brand Manager Renita Sital highlighted that the Tournament has been great thus far and she expected nothing less in the final.

“I have enjoyed the Tournament, it was great…

I have seen the parents coming out to watch these talented kids and I thought the semi-finals were perfect.

“I expect the final between Dolphin and Chase to be even better and I urge the kids to give 100 per cent

and I wish both teams well,” Sital stated.

Petra Organisation Director Troy Mendonca noted that the Tournament is meeting initial expectations.

“What I witnessed last Thursday (semi-finals) gave me some sense of satisfaction with what we set out to do… I think we made some strides and I hope tomorrow (today) will be evidence of those strides.

“We have had a great tournament so far and I

think all the stakeholders have given their lot in this venture,” Mendonca noted.

Both team captains Shawn Mohammed (Dolphin Secondary) and Kareem Knights (Chase Academy) revealed that they expected tough competition and would be playing to win the Tournament.

The third-place playoff is expected to be held from 17:00h while the final is expected to kick off from 19:00h at the Ministry of Education Ground.

FA end plan for combined British team at Rio Games

T

he English Football Association have scrapped plans to send a combined British football team to compete at next year’s Rio de Janeiro Olympics because of opposition from other home nations, the BBC reported on Monday.

The BBC said the FA had written to the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish associations to inform them.

Britain fielded a unified football team managed by the FA, after a 52year absence, at the London 2012 Olympics although at the time it was seen as a one-off move to mark the home Games.

Several Welsh and Scottish players played at London 2012 without the blessing of their national associations.

Debate has raged over a British soccer team, with the Welsh, Scottish and Northern Irish FAs concerned

Members of Britain’s national team pose for a photo before their men’s Group A football match against Senegal at the London 2012 Olympic Games on July 26

that agreeing to unite for the Olympics would jeop-

ardise their independent status within football’s

world governing FIFA. (Reuters)

body

19

Billed as “the Biggest Party in Sport”, the CPL is a franchise-based T20 cricket tournament that combines two of the most compelling aspects of Caribbean life – dramatic cricket and a vibrant Carnival atmosphere.

The Barbados Tridents are the defending champions and the third staging of the tournament will take place in June and July of this year.

Djokovic into final 16 of Miami Open

D

Novak Djokovic

efending champion Novak Djokovic defeated Belgium’s Steve Darcis 6-0 7-5 on Monday to power into the last 16 of the Miami Open along with Japan’s Kei Nishikori and Canada’s Milos Raonic.

The Serbian world number one, who just like last year won at Indian Wells before heading to South Florida, will face Alexandr Dolgopolov, a 7-5 6-4 winner over Brazilian Thomaz Bellucci, in the fourth round.

Djokovic, who is seeking a fifth win at Miami, wrapped up a one-sided first set in 26 minutes but faced a sterner test in the second.

Darcis broke to go ahead 5-4 but after the Serb levelled up the set, he broke back and held on to secure the match.

Fourth-seed Nishikori had even less trouble as he crushed Serbia’s Viktor Troicki 6-2 6-2 in 63 minutes.

Troicki, who needed medical treatment to his

left side during the match, struggled to cope with Nishikori throughout with the 25-year-old converting five of his six break points.

“I was almost perfect on the court. It is so exciting that I am playing well here,” said Nishikori. “Maybe he was hurting a little bit but I was still putting him under pressure with my return.”

Raonic also moved into the fourth round after a hard-earned 6-1 5-7 7-6 (3) win over French 31st seed Jeremy Chardy.

Raonic was broken when serving for the match at 5-4 in the second and then Chardy went on to force the third set.

“He started playing more freely and I sort of went the other way,” said Raonic. “He played well in the second set and I think he played better than I did in the third.”

Belgian 18th seed David Goffin beat Poland’s Jerzy Janowicz 6-4 6-3 while Spain’s David Ferrer, the sixth seed, got past Czech Lukas Rosol 6-4 7-5. (Reuters)

20

guyanatimesGY.com

tuesday, march 31, 2015

ICC president rails at Venus Williams on course World Cup trophy snub to meet sister Serena V I

CC president AHM Mustafa Kamal has said that the game’s governing body denied him of his right to give the trophy at the post-match presentation ceremony of the World Cup final on Sunday.

The trophy was handed over by ICC chairman N Srinivasan, despite the ICC’s amendment of its rules in January 2015 to mandate that ICC president is supposed to give trophies at global competitions.

Kamal spoke to two Bangladeshi TV channels Jamuna TV and 71 - following Sunday’s final, accusing the ICC of not honouring his rights. He also warned of revealing information from within the governing body after he returns home.

“I was supposed to give the trophy today,” Kamal said. “It is my constitutional right. But very unfortunately, I wasn’t allowed to do so. My rights were dishonoured. After I go back home, I will let the whole world know what’s happening in ICC. I will let the whole world know about those guys who are doing these mischievous things.”

He, however, told ESPNcricinfo that he would not connect Sunday’s rebuff with his controversial comments on umpiring of the

AHM Mustafa Kamal

Bangladesh-India quarterfinal held on March 19.

Kamal had come close to questioning the integrity of the umpires by saying that the ICC should investigate the matter and questioned whether some decisions were “deliberate or not.” A day later, the ICC’s chief executive, Dave Richardson, termed Kamal’s criticism “unfortunate”.

The amendment to the memorandum and articles of association was unanimously approved by Full Council in January 2015. According to 3.3 (B):

“With effect from the 2014 Conference Close Date, the President shall act solely as chairman at Conference and Special Meetings and be responsible for presenting trophies at global competitions and cricket events held under the aegis of the Council. For the avoidance of doubt, with effect from the 2014 Conference Close Date, the President will no longer act as chairman of the Executive Board or as chairman of any Committee or Sub-Committee.”

Emails to the ICC had not drawn any response.

(Cricinfo)

Former FIFA Exec life ban upheld

F

ormer FIFA Executive Committee member Vernon Manilal Fernando has lost his appeal to have a lifetime ban overturned.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) have upheld Vernon Manilal Fernando’s lifetime ban after the former FIFA Executive Committee member lost his appeal on Monday.

FIFA imposed a life ban on Fernando in 2013 after the Sri Lankan - a close ally of Qatari football administrator Mohamed bin Hammam - appealed against his initial eight-year suspension for multiple ethics violations, including bribery, conflicts of interest and accepting gifts.

Fernando appealed again, this time taking his case to CAS, however the quasi-judicial body confirmed the ban imposed by FIFA. “The Court of Arbitration for Sport [CAS] has dismissed the appeal filed by Vernon Manilal Fernando from Sri Lanka, former FIFA Executive Committee member,” read a statement released by CAS. “As a consequence, the decision rendered on October 9, 2013 by the FIFA Appeals Committee, which bans Manilal Fernando from taking part in any foot-

Vernon Manilal Fernando

ball-related activity for life, from March 11, 2013, is confirmed.”

“In September 2012, during an inquiry conducted by the Investigatory Chamber of the FIFA Ethics Committee concerning allegations of corruption against Mohamed Bin Hammam, not related to the 2009 AFC [Asian Football Confederation] election, Mr Manilal Fernando was suspected of having violated the FIFA Code of Ethics [FCE].

Subsequently, disciplinary proceedings were opened against him.

“On 30 April 2013, the Adjudicatory Chamber of the FIFA Ethics Committee found Mr Manilal Fernando guilty of having infringed

art. 13 [General rules of conduct], art. 19 [Conflict of interests], art. 20 [Offering and accepting gifts and other benefits], and art. 21 [Bribery and corruption] of the FCE. “In his appeal at the CAS, Vernon Manilal Fernando did not object to the bribery charges but considered that the FCE should only apply to bribes to third parties and not to other FIFA officials, which cannot be accepted. The CAS Panel has determined that Mr Manilal Fernando has failed to discharge the evidential burden which lies upon him to undermine the violations of the FCE and accordingly has found him guilty of such violations.” (Digicel Sportsmax)

enus Williams remains on course to meet sister Serena in the Miami Open final after upsetting world number five Caroline Wozniacki in the last 16.

The American beat her Danish opponent 6-3 7-6 (71) in 98 minutes.

The 34-year-old, who was out of action for seven months after being diagnosed with Sjogren’s Syndrome in 2011, has now won seven of her past eight matches against top-10 ranked players.

Sister Serena beat Svetlana Kuznetsova 6-2 6-3 to reach the quarter-finals.

The 33-year-old will meet Sabine Lisicki in the last eight after the German beat Sara Errani 6-1 6-2.

Venus, meanwhile, faces Spaniard Carla Suarez Navarro, who recovered from the loss of the opening set to beat Polish seventh seed Agnieszka Radwanska 5-7 6-0 6-4.

Novak Djokovic – the top seed in the men’s draw

Venus Williams

- plays Belgium’s Steve Darcis, who beat Rafael Nadal in the Wimbledon first round in 2013, later on Monday.

After the win, she said her self-belief had never been damaged by her spell of poor health, adding she was enjoying her sport as much as ever.

“I have always seen it as

something to overcome, and not something that could stop me,” she said.

“Tennis is definitely not pushing paper. You have no idea what’s going to happen in the point.

“You can try to plan it the best you can, but it’s all up in the air. You have to improvise every single time.

That never gets boring.’’ (BBC

Sport)

Woods out of world top 100

T

iger Woods has dropped out of the world’s top 100 golfers for the first time in his career.

The 14-time major winner, who first moved into the top 100 in 1996 and then spent a cumulative record 683 weeks as world number one, has dropped to 104.

The 39-year-old American has not played since withdrawing from the Farmers Insurance Open on 6 February.

Woods has said he is “hopeful” of a return for the first major of the year, the Masters, starting on 9 April.

After withdrawing from February’s event at Torrey Pines with back problems, Woods announced he would be taking an indefinite break from the sport, describing his performances this year as “unacceptable for tournament play”.

Tiger Woods

Woods, who carded an 82 at the Phoenix Open in January - his worst round as a professional - added that he won’t return until he can “compete at the highest level”.

The last time Woods was outside the top 100 in the world was in September 1996 when he was ranked

equal 221 and on his climb to the top.

The following week, he jumped to 75th by winning the Las Vegas Invitational as a 20-year-old for the first of his 79 PGA Tour victories.

Woods first become world number one after finishing 19th at the 1997 US Open.

(BBC Sport)

Zidane interested in managing Real Madrid

Z

inedine Zidane has said he would be willing to become Real Madrid head coach although he was not in a hurry.

“Of course, if the role is offered to me I would agree to it but once again there is an amazing coach in place,” Zidane, the Real Madrid reserve coach, told Canal Plus.

“I’ve got time, I’m learning. I did not become the player I was in two years, it’s the same in coaching.”

The 42-year-old former France midfielder, who helped his country win the

Zinedine Zidane

1998 World Cup on home soil, was current Real coach Carlo Ancelotti’s assistant when they became European champions for the 10th time last season.

“I’ve learnt a lot from Carlo Ancelotti and he knows how highly I think of him. He is the perfect coach for Real Madrid, despite what people are saying,” Zidane added.

Real are second in La Liga, four points behind Barcelona after losing the Clasico 2-1 at the Camp Nou on March 22. (Reuters)

sports

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21

Kolkata Knight Riders threaten to pull out if Narine not cleared R eigning Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are poised to get into a legal battle with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over West Indian spin wizard Sunil Narine, with just over a week to go for the eighth staging of the competition.

The 26-year-old rightarm off-break bowler, banned for a suspect action at the 2014 Champions League Twenty20, was barred from playing in the final against Chennai Super Kings.

Narine was subsequently dropped from the West Indies’ tour of India and opted out of the 2015 ICC World Cup to sort out his bowling action.

Returning to the nets, Narine was cleared by the ICC after bio-mechanical testing in Loughborough.

But the BCCI has refused to accept the ICC report, insisting that the offspinner undergo another

round of testing at the Sri Ramachandra University in Chennai.

The KKR is considering taking legal action against the BCCI, pointing out that if Narine was cleared by the world governing body for cricket that should be enough for the BCCI. Kolkata believes that BCCI is targeting Narine, their star spinner, and that the Trinidadian was not called for “chucking” during the IPL but was suddenly found to have an illegal action in the CLT20.

The BCCI president’s office says a decision will be taken over Narine in the next few days, though, KKR chief executive officer Venky Mysore has denied reports about the club speaking to the BCCI chief.

Narine took 21 wickets in the 2014 IPL season, second only to Chennai Super Kings’, Mohit Sharma, the Indian right-arm, fast-medium bowler topping the league with 23 wickets. (Digicel

Sportmax)

Edwards signs with Hampshire

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WANTED Laborers and forklift operators/ helper must be hardworking and able to work flexible hours. For more information call 231-8344

W

Fidel Edwards

est Indies fast bowler Fidel Edwards will be plying his trade in the UK this summer after signing with English county side Hampshire AS a Kolpak player.

According to director of cricket at Hampshire, Giles Whyte, Edwards will be available to play in all formats of the game, as the bajan is expected to arrive in July ahead of the Royal London One-Day cup.

The 33-year-old has played 55 Tests, 50 OneDay internationals and 20 Twenty20 games for the Windies, taking 241 wick-

ets across all formats of the game, with a Test best of seven for 87 against New Zealand in 2008.

‘I’m delighted to have signed for such an ambitious club as Hampshire.

I hope I can play a part in helping to bring success to the Ageas Bowl this year,” Edwards said. ‘I’m very much looking forward to my first taste of county cricket.

It’s also an honour to follow other Bajans like Malcolm Marshall and Gordon Greenidge to Hampshire.”

Hampshire recently wrapped up a two-week training camp in Barbados.

(Digicel Sportsmax)

22

guyanatimesGY.com

tuesday, march 31, 2015

Cheddi Jagan Memorial T20 cricket...

Lower East Bank Lions capture There is need title with 7 wickets for a culture of sport in Guyana

L

Members of the Lower East Bank Lions pose after their success on Sunday at Lusignan

ower East Bank Lions defeated Georgetown Bears by seven wickets to capture the Cheddi Jagan Memorial Over-40 T20 title on Sunday last at Lusignan Community Centre Ground.

Georgetown Bears batted first and scored 83-6 in 20 overs. Surendra Hiralall struck 25 from 24 balls, while Reynold Rodrigues

made 14 and Shaheed Khan 11.

Off-spinner Shaheed Mohamed claimed 3-9 from four overs, while there was a wicket each for Test batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Rakesh Gangaram and Ramotar Bissoon.

Lower East Bank Lions replied with 84-3 in 11.5 overs. Mohamed led with an

unbeaten 35, which came off 26 balls and contained four fours and one six. He and Chanderpaul added 63 off 55 balls for the fourth wicket.

Chanderpaul faced 20 balls and ended on 24 not out with one maximum.

Basil Persaud and Rudolph Chapman picked up one wicket each. Both teams received trophies, while

Mohamed was given the Man-of-the-Match and Best Bowler accolades and Basil Persaud took the prize for being the tournament’s Best Batsman.

Organiser Seeraj Bhimsain congratulated the winners and thanked the other players for participating. The tournament was sponsored by the National Sports Commission.

Easter swim camp attracts massive turnout

By Avenash Ramzan

T

he future of swimming is currently being shaped with the staging of the annual Easter swimming camp, sponsored exclusively by the National Sports Commission (NSC).

At the opening ceremony on Monday morning, over 50 young boys and girls started the course, which will focus on the fundamentals of the sport.

The programme, which caters for children between the ages of six and 11, is being conducted by Cuban coach Isabel Maria Cousa Fals and three local instructors.

The group of youngsters has been divided into two groups, which will further be sub-divided into smaller groups to facilitate quality supervision.

Guyana Amateur Swimming Association

(GASA) President Ivan Persaud lauded the NSC for once again investing in the programme, thereby securing a solid foundation for the next crop of national swimmers.

He said that with the consistent hosting of such camps by the NSC, the GASA will be challenged to churn out more coaches, which he noted was currently a major bugbear for the Association. Persaud pointed out that persons would usually attend the coaching course, but few would actually dedicate the time voluntarily to engage in coaching.

Director of Sport, Neil Kumar who has always been an advocate for young persons to join the swimming fraternity and learn a critical life skill, pointed out that the Sports Commission, and by extension, the Government, remained committed to the development of

Director of Sport Neil Kumar

the sport.

He spoke of the Administration’s investment in the National Aquatic Centre, noting that the facility at Liliendaal will be utilised in the event the current programme out-

grows the Colgrain Pool on Camp Street.

Kumar also commended the many parents who attended the opening for displaying a genuine interest in their child/children’s welfare by encouraging them to get involved in a meaningful activity.

Sessions will be conducted in the mornings from 09:30 to 11:30h, with the two groups allotted one hour each. At the completion of the programme, the participants will be presented with certificates, and those who impress the coaches will be recommended to join the six-week camp, starting in August at the same venue.

The opening was also attended by several NSC officers, including Gervy Harry and Desiree Cummings, as well as Permanent Secretary in the Sport Ministry, Alfred King.

“Zapper Man” softball competition set for Saturday T op softball teams across the country are being encouraged to sign up for another exciting softball cricket competition being promoted by Rajan “Zapper Man” Tiwari on the East Coast of Demerara.

The Enterprise Community Centre Ground

is the venue for Saturday’s event, which is geared at revitalising the age-old game of softball cricket along the East Coast corridor.

“We want to encourage teams to come out and play competitively, especially on the East Coast, because, as we know, softball cricket is very popular in the country

area,” Tiwari said.

Interested teams are required to pay an entrance fee of $15,000 to be eligible to compete in the 11-a-side tournament. The number of overs will depend on the number of teams that register.

The champion team will pocket $125,000, while the

losing finalist is guaranteed $50,000. The competition, which will bowl off at 18:00h, is being powered

by Banks DIH Limited, Payless Variety Store and Smart Choice Variety Store.

Interested teams are asked to contact Tiwari on 652-9570 for more information on the competition.

Dear Editor, I am not puzzled or surprised by Gervy C Harry’s effort in a letter to justify the disgraceful conduct of his assistant Bashir Khan who instructed the security guard to take the lights off while the Guyana women’s basketball squad was practicing at the Sports Hall on the evening of March 24.

The mentality displayed by the Mr Harry, Administrative Officer of the National Sports Commission (NSC), is indicative of the lack of a sports culture in Guyana, as noted by the great Caribbean sprinter, fourtime Olympic medal winner and NBC sportscaster Ato Bolton, when at the Sports Management workshop held in Guyana in June 2014, he emphasized the need for a “culture of sport” if Guyana is to develop and reap success in sports.

Also, we have Presidential Advisor for Youth Empowerment Odinga Lumumba, noting that “sports lack basic support in Guyana”. I believe the conduct of Mr Khan and the support given by Mr Harry is a clear indication that there is no culture of sport in Guyana and that sports do lack basic support in Guyana.

I will not try to dismantle the hollow arguments made by Mr Harry, who seems to use waffle arguments, as he attempts to defend the conduct of his assistant by referencing a plethora of letters and dates.

Suffice it to say, letters written to the NSC for permission to use the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) are invariably subject to change/s.

Also, most of the arrangements to use the Sports Hall are done by a phone call or some non-written agreement for a recorded or unrecorded fee.

Harry in his letter notes, “It is known by all that the CASH is the only facility of its kindand is in constant use, seven days a week, for various sport disciplines and other activities.”

However, when the lights were turned off to prevent the Guyana women’s national basketball

squad from practising; no other activity was scheduled for that evening.

And, the National Sports Hall, where the first major event was held in 1980, when Guyana hosted the Caricom Basketball Championships, is still the only facility of its kind in Guyana, this underlines in bold, both the lack of a sports culture and that “sports lack basic support in Guyana”.

Having myself spent a few thousand hours practising basketball at the Sports Hall, I can say without fear of contradiction that lights were never turned off while I trained with the national basketball squad or team to represent Guyana.

In fact, players were encouraged to stay on after formal practice hours to work on areas that would improve their game.

In responding to Mr Harry’ statement from his letter, I ask where is the respect for the ladies who were training in the Guyana women’s basketball squad?

The Guyana men’s basketball team recently concluded a three-game basketball series against Bermuda and the training sessions went on past 22:00h on several nights.

The magnificent performance of the Guyana Panthers and the enthusiastic support from the Guyanese fans came about partly as a result of the extra hours of training that went beyond 22:00h.

The shameful and appalling support given by Mr Harry is in of itself a disgrace and is par asinine with the reprehensible instructions given

by Mr Khan to turn off the lights at the National Sports Hall while the Guyana women’s basketball squad ere still practicing.

I close with the following quote from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow: “The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the night.

Nigel Hinds GABF President

guyanatimesGY.com

tuesday, march 31, 2015

23

McKinnon continues hot run in practical shooting A

mid light scattered showers on Saturday, local practical shooters safely balanced the three elements of the practical shooting triangle: speed, power and accuracy at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Timehri Ranges when the Guyana Sport Shooting Federation (GSSF) hosted another Practical Pistol competition.

Ryan McKinnon emerged as the victor of the event with 285 points while David Dharry was second with 178.40 points.

Ray Beharry was third with 169.32 points.

The first stage called “Open Season” required the shooters to sit on a chair with their backs touching the back with a table placed some distance away on which their unloaded firearm and all magazines were stationed.

When the start signal was given, shooters had to race to the table, retrieve their gun, make it ready and then engage four paper targets and one falling plate.

The second stage “Twist and Shout” consisted of 11 paper targets with five No-

The winners pose with their trophies after the tournament

Shoot targets, which were placed in front of and adjacent to the shoot targets, thus making some shooting angles even more difficult as hits on No-Shoot targets would attract a minus 10-point penalty per hit.

The third and final stage named “A Good Hair Day” was adjudged the most challenging but fun stage. This stage saw shooters having to engage 12 paper targets and two falling plates. The start

Major Pompey elected head of DVA

Guyana Volleyball Federation (GVF) Public Relations Officer Mark Bradford (left), presents volleyball to newly-elected Demerara Volleyball Association President, Major Andy Pompey in the presence of GVF President John Flores

T

he Demerara Volleyball Association (DVA) recently held elections to fill vacant positions on the board namely the positions of President, Assistant SecretaryTreasurer, Treasurer and Public Relations Officer.

Major Andy Pompey was

elected unanimously as the President of the body to govern volleyball in the county, while Kevin Vieira was voted in as Assistant SecretaryTreasurer, Jana Edghill as Treasurer and Allana Bose as the Public Relations Officer.

Guyana Volleyball Federation President John

Busta teams with Petra...

The winning team will walk away with $600,000, while second will receive $300,000. Third place will play for $200,000 and fourth $100,000.

The Soft Shoe Tournament is similar to futsal with the difference being that the goals are a bit smaller and the players play in sneakers instead of cleats on

a scaled-down football field.

In addition, teams will have only five players, including a goalkeeper, on the field at any time.

Meanwhile, the teams will be divided into six groups of four with the top two from each and the four best thirdplace finishers going forward to the knockout stage.

Further, each team will

Flores witnessed the process and congratulated the newlyelected members and urged them to take small bites and to focus on volleyball at the grassroots level.

The meeting also saw the handing over of volleyball nets and balls to the newly elected DVA President. from back page

be provided with 10 jerseys compliments of Busta which will carry the company’s logo.

The Tournament is scheduled to run until May 5 at three venues: the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) Ground; Tucville Ground; and Ministry of Education Ground. (Treiston Joseph)

position was seated at a dressing table full of pink accessories.

The start position was holding a pink mirror in one hand and a pink hair brush in the other, while the unloaded handgun and all magazines were placed on the table.

Competitors had to retrieve their firearm then move downrange to be within the fault lines be-

fore engaging any targets.

Some shot while on the move, thus saving time while others took it slow and steady, giving consideration to ideal shooting positions even when shooting through the two windows.

In closing, special thanks were extended by GSSF President Vidushi Persaud to the match officials – GDF Chief of Staff

Brigadier Mark Phillips, Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud, A-Division Commander Clifton Hicken, Tactical Services Unit ranks, the Guyana Police Force; the media and GSSF members for their support and encouragement towards the Federation which is dedicated towards encouraging and promoting sport shooting among all Guyanese.

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

tuesday, march 31, 2015

Busta teams with Petra to launch Soft Shoe Football Tournament – injects a whopping $4 million

G

Busta General Manager Robert Selman hands over the winning trophy to Petra Director Troy Mendonca in the presence of Busta staff members

uyana Beverage Inc under its Busta brand is going all out to ensure football develops by injecting $4 million into its first edition of the Soft

Shoe Football Tournament set to begin on April 9.

At the launching on Monday at the company’s boardroom, General Manager Robert Selman

noted that his teaming with the Petra Organisation for the Tournament was fuelled by his own struggles as a child growing up.

“This is what will please

this company to know that we will be providing the opportunity for many of them who are not going to play the game at the traditional level, but just within their

Easter swim camp attracts massive turnout P22

NSC official Gervy Harry (standing left) poses with the participants of the camp. Sharing the moment are GASA officials (Avenash Ramzan photo)

respective communities,” Selman stated.

Petra Organisation Director Troy Mendonca promised a great tournament while thanking Busta

for coming on board with the event, which will see 24 community teams vying for over $1.2 million in cash, prizes, and trophies. turn to page 23

Kolkata Knight Riders threaten to pull out if Narine not cleared P 21

Sunil Narine

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