Friday, March 25, 2016

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

Issue No. 2807

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Friday, March 25, 2016

PRICE

2016 LGE results

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

PPP/C beats APNU/ AFC coalition by 28,000 votes

Smyth Street murder P8 accused remanded

Page 7

…more and more Guyanese losing confidence in Govt – Opposition Leader

"Cheesy"’s Industry bullet-ridden seaman body found in stabbed to Le Repentir death by Page 20 Cemetery cousin Page 8

Corentyne man chopped in bed …pregnant wife, children Page 3

APNU/AFC’s ministerial travelmania

Govt advised to buy aircraft fleet as P19 costs soar

forced to witness ordeal

Guyanese feeling Easter ‘fever’ as kite shopping increases

Police yet to submit Gilhuys’s P10 telephone records to DPP

Forensic Audit Report

Hundreds of Guyanese on Thursday commenced their shopping for the Easter holidays with special emphasis being placed on getting that special kite for the season

Father of 3 Implicated officers sent stabbed to death home to facilitate probe at Skull City 2 arrested as Police – GRA Board Chairman -probe incident Corruption at CJIA’s Customs Dept

Page 9

Page 9

Our next publication will be on Sunday, March 27, 2016

Guyoil MD abused authority P19 - breached procurement policy, awarded contracts to relatives

Regional efforts needed to tackle TB P15 – Dr Norton

2 NEWS

friDAY, march 25, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

President meets with directors of Winslow Carrington Foundation

P

President David Granger on Thursday with the children and relatives of the late Winslow Carrington

resident David Granger on Thursday met with the children and relatives of the late Winslow Carrington, who served as a Minister of Government in the 1950s. His children started the Winslow Carrington Foundation

with the aim of assisting youths to become more employable, while at the same time preserving their father’s legacy.

In a brief comment, Gilbert Carrington explained that the Foundation was sanctioned by the previous Administration in

December 2014 and they are now in the process of getting the project off the ground. \ “The plan is to be a community-based organisation to provide education and training for the youths of communities that will train them in areas that

will ensure that they get jobs,” he said.

The Carringtons are currently in talks with the administration of the Critchlow Labour College to establish a training curriculum and to set up a special classroom for which they will provide computers, Wi-Fi and other necessary amenities so that the initial phase of training could start. These classes will subsequently be tailored to be rolled out in communities.

The late Winslow Carrington served as Minister of Labour and Social Security. He was a visionary labour leader and a passionate advocate for workers’ rights. He also played an instrumental role in the establishment of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).

The meeting was held at the Ministry of the Presidency.

Govt will not make ruling on “aerial spraying ban”

G

overnment has taken no position on the ban which was recently implemented on aerial spraying of rice. This is according to Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo who met with concerned rice farmers on Friday last.

Recently, the Pesticide and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB) issued a ban on a local aircraft company from spraying crops with pesticides and fertilisers. The ban came as a direct blow to Nand Persaud and Company Limited (NPCL) situated at Number 37 Village Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). NPCL are the producers of Karibee Rice.

Following a meeting on Friday last between officials of NPCL and the Prime Minister, Nagamootoo told Guyana Times that NPCL expressed concerns about the ban on aerial spraying. He said the issue is more complex than it may seem on the surface and Government has not made a decision on the issue.

“There is a fear argument from rice farmers pushing to have the ban of aerial spraying which was imposed by Toxic Chemicals Control Board.

There is also a fear argument coming from cash crop farmers who claim that the aerial spraying has been affecting their interest.”

Nagamootoo further noted that the Government will not be making a ruling on the issue but has left in the hands of the competent authorities.

“I believe that we will have to make a decision with the advice of the EPA and the Pesticide Board. They are the competent authorities to deal with this matter so that if you have someone who has an inertest in doing aerial spraying, we are not as lay persons to determine what risks may be posed by spraying; it can over spill into areas where people reside or into areas where people grow cash crops or it can spill into the waterways which lead

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo

to GuySuCo [Guyana Sugar Corporation] plantations.

There are other implications that I am not in a position to determine so I ensured Mr Nand Persaud that while there is an interest in his company doing aerial spraying for bugs and other types of infestation, that it has to be done only upon the approval of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Pesticide Board.”

Recently, Public Relations Officer of NPCL, Haseef Yusuf, told the media that farmers are likely to lose their crop because of the heavy infestation of paddy bug and caterpillars. He explained that collectively, close to 10,000 acres of rice is cultivated by a concerned group of farmers.

The PTCCB took the decision to block Air Services Limited from conducting aerial spraying of rice fields following complaints to the Board from members of the public over the possible harmful effects such spraying could have on communities in close proximity to rice fields which utilise that system to spray their crop.

Meanwhile, those in the rice industry who are being affected by the ban, argue that GuySuCo should also be stopped from conducting aerial spraying if a ban is being implemented on them.

news

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friDAY, march 25, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, March 25 – 05:30h-07:00h and Saturday, March 26 – 05:30h-07:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, March 25 – 05:20h-06:50h and Saturday, March 26 – 05:45h-07:15h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Corentyne man chopped in bed

BY ANDREW CARMICHAEL

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

WEATHER TODAY Light rain showers with sunny intervals can be expected throughout the day, with partly cloudy skies in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly to North-easterly between 5.36 metres and 6.70 metres per second.

High Tide: 05:00h and 17:18h reaching a maximum height of 2.70 metres at each scheduled high tide.

Low Tide: 10:58h and 23:08h reaching minimum heights of 0.47 metre and 0.55 metre respectively.

A

man is now a patient at the New Amsterdam Hospital where he is nursing several chop wounds after being attacked in bed while he slept with his pregnant wife and three children at their Belvidere, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice/

somebody dea inside abe house, by the time he fo raise up he start collect the chop he already and the only thing that he could do is put he hand on top he head and start to holla.”

He got choped to his forearm, head and upper arm. A piece of finger was taken off.

According to Sharmilla, during the ordeal, Ramphal

“If me na get justice, abe go taka we own justice because this ah real advantage” – victim’s mother Corentyne) home.

Yufaraj Ramphal, 20, and his wife Sharmila, 27, along with the children ages 8, 6 and 4, were under a net on a bed in their one-room home when three armed men carried out the vicious attack. Ramphal managed to escape through the back door of the house and made it to his neighbour’s yard where he was rescued.

His wife said the incident occurred at about 02:00h on Tuesday. She recounted

begged for his life and enquired what the reason for the attack was but was told that he deserved it. She said she was hit with what appeared to be an iron pipe by someone on the other side of the window. After her husband escaped, the pregnant woman grabbed her children and fled as the men made good their escape.

Ramphal says he was able to identify two of his attackers but is unaware of any issue between himself

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The bed on which the family was sleeping when the attack was made

that the intruders removed a chain from the front door to gain entry. She said before doing so they were able to open a window which is situated over the bed.

“Me look outside an me see two body stand up, a already recognise the two body is who. Then me wake up me husband and tell he

and his attackers. According to him, this is the third time that he has become their victim.

“One time them come in me house an ask me where dem buddy deh an start broadside me. That is the first time. First time I went on the street head, the one wha name Joel come an start

The injured Yufaraj Ramphal in hospital

to broadside me and ask me where is me wife. He leff me pon the street and go ah house. When he go ah house me wife na deh ah house….

This time all wha me know is me wife wake me up from the bed and one don deh in the netting ah fire chap.”

Police have since arrested one person, but the injured man’s mother, Shreeranie Shammar says police have been very slow in their response and the family has reached the breaking point.

“If me na get justice, abe go taka we own justice because this ah real advan-

tage. This na one time, this na two time, this ah three time an one dea got to find the two mo an how long that one na find the two mo, an if he loose from deh it gon cause big problem.”

The injured man’s wife also offered similar sentiments saying, “If we can’t get results from the police we go tek we own action.”

4

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, march 25, 2016

Views Adding colour to my world!

General Editor: Michael Younge News Hotliine: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707

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

Editorial

Youth and crime: How the church can help

G

uyana just celebrated Phagwah and today is observing Good Friday. Good Friday is the day on which Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. According to the Gospel, Jesus was betrayed by Judas on the night of the last supper, commemorated on Holy Thursday. Today, as Christians remember the life and eventual crucifixion of Jesus Christ, one must also consider the public service role of the church in society. From a layman’s perspective, the church is a hospital for sinners and not an exclusive club for saints and, as such, it is where people seek refuge when in need of a “spiritual fix”. With all the weight and pressures of their world weighing down on their minds, people expect the church to provide answers which no other institution can provide. As such, the church plays an important public service role within the community and immediate environs in which each individual edifice is located.

In Guyana, there is no doubt that the church – whether Christian, Hindu (temple) or Muslim (masjid) – plays a significant role, both socially and otherwise.

However, there seems to be a need for a more dominant role of these institutions in tackling crime among youths. The involvement of youths in crime is no secret in Guyana. A glaring example of this is a quick perusal of any of the dailies where many of the perpetrators of crime – petty or serious – are youths, although this phenomenon is not limited to these shores only.

Recently, over 100 persons from across the Caribbean gathered at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre in an attempt to address youth crime and violence in Caricom countries. Under the theme, “Youth Crime and Violence – Breaking the Cycle: Exploring New Platforms for Transformation”, the mission of the consultation was to derive strategies for the reduction of youth crime and violence through discussion of the issues promoting youth crime. As all avenues are being explored to fight against youths’ involvement in crime, Government must consider the church, to a substantial extent, as playing a significant role.

These religious institutions make a difference in people’s everyday lives and many of our churches are deeply rooted in communities. It is through this medium that these religious institutions can impact youths and crime. The church, through outreach programmes, can impact neighbourhoods making them not only generous but safe. Because of the influence that churches have over their congregation, Government should tap into this and offer support to churches (Christian, Hindu, and Muslim) to finance projects that will enable them to more effectively tackle issues of poverty, which in many cases are the root cause of crime. This support will to a greater extent encourage churches to develop a broader vision for how they might have a greater impact on the lives of people in local communities and their surrounding environs.

There is no doubt that youths of today are faced with numerous challenges, even more challenges than there were in years gone by and, as such, to adequately address the issues, emphasis must be placed on the church, which is one of the institutions that first touch the lives of youths.

Churches, with adequate financing, can help address the issue of crime by instilling values that relate to moral compasses being missing in many of today’s youth. Among these values are honesty, respect, spirituality, and a sense of justice and fairness.

This young man joined his family and friends at the Everest Cricket Club Ground on Wednesday to ensure he was part of this year’s Phagwah celebrations and not left behind because he was differently abled. He was seen enjoying the festivities and adding more colour to the world he someday hopes to conquer (Marceano Narine photo)

An institutionalised NY Phagwah

Dear Editor, The spirit of Phagwah has traversed a great distance over the last 25 five years and is now being celebrated in Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Toronto with great enthusiasm. The vibrancy of the festival is cherished by Indo-Caribbeans everywhere (and also enjoyed by people of other ethnic groups) and hence its public observance in places alien to Hindu or Indian culture.

The parade and celebrations in New York associated with Phagwah are institutionalised in the psyche of the Indo-Caribbean population with some people from other ethnic groups also partaking in the festivities in Queens, Bronx, Jersey City, Orlando, Ft Lauderdale, etc. In NY, people eagerly look forward for the festival which has been transplanted by Indian (Hindu) immigrants from Guyana, Trinidad and Suriname. It has now become an institution in the Richmond Hill community, the Bronx and Jersey City.

Without a parade or a cultural variety show as happened in the parks in Florida, NY and New Jersey there is no Phagwah celebration because there would be no public avenue to celebrate the joyous festival known for its vibrancy of colours. The parade has gained recognition in Queens if not in the wider city with politicians offering assistance to help pull it off; mainstream media report on it.

Politicians and community leaders march in it. And the police provide guidance and protection for the marchers.

Tens of thousands line the parade route to take in the spectacle.

Thus, congrats are in order for the conceivers, founders, planners and organisers of this annual parade which was initiated in 1990. The parade has brought so many diverse people together and they look forward for it every year. Everyone (Ramesh Kalicharran, Pt Satish, Pt Ramall, Kishore, Bal Naipaul,

Pt Upadhyaya, Pt Anand Sukul, etc.) and every organisation that played a role in starting the parade should be recognised and applauded for his or her contributions never mind that they are divided and fail to see they are hurting the community through their division.

Up until two weeks ago, a Phagwah parade was not certain because of division in the organising committee: the members split in two factions allegedly over the rights to host the parade with each faction applying for a parade permit. The police department issued a permit to one faction and banned the other side which went to court to block the parade.

The same happened last year and it was cancelled resulting in this writer traveling to San Francisco to partake in the Chinese Parade that was carried live on TV. While Hindus are fighting over petty matters, other groups are moving big with sponsors and mainstream air time.

Community leaders and the court as well as the police department urged the factions to resolve their differences rather than cancel the parade. A court appointed officers brought the two sides together. Tens of thousands of dollars were wasted over a petty squabble and over egoism. Good sense prevailed from both sides. Differences were temporarily resolved as a result of concessions from the two factions and a parade is pulled off at the last minute. It would have been a great disappointment if the parade were not held again after being cancelled last year over egoism.

It is high time to heal the division permanently. The organisers of the parade and all community leaders in general need to work together to promote Phagwah and other festivals celebrated by the community.

The meaning of Phagwah is to bury differences.

People should have put aside hatred and enmity and

come together as preached and practiced by Lord Krishna.

Unity would help in achieving goals and objectives for the community whereas infighting would defeat the purpose of having organisations. With greater unity in the community on observing festivals, the community would be recognised and courted.

Also, politicians would come forward to provide greater assistance. Let me take this opportunity to applaud the organisers of the parade for their hard work and the two factions for putting aside differences so we can have a parade. They overcame many serious challenges in pulling off another parade.

I hope they will use their unity to help empower the community politically through the large number of people who celebrate the festival rather than spite each other over ego.

I, therefore, urge community elders to work together to strengthen rather than divide the community. The two factions must come together to jointly organise next year’s Phagwah. The organisers should meet soon and decide on a course of action.

I should note that Phagwah has been celebrated in grand style since 1990 because of the large influx of Indo-Caribbean people.

It has been celebrated annually with parades (Richmond Hill, Queens Village, Bronx, Jersey City, Central Florida, South Florida, etc), melas or variety concerts, pageants, etc, over the last 25 years.

Prior to the parade, there were small celebrations in mandirs in the Bronx and Queens. There were also a few concerts in the auditoriums of public schools. But the parades really brought out the celebration.

The Caribbean community should applaud the efforts of all who helped to institutionalise the Phagwah celebration, indeed all Indo-Caribbean cultural and religious celebrations.

They have done yeoman service to help institutionalise Phagwah in NYC. Although Phagwah is not a holiday in NY, the community leaders have helped to make it possible for the festival to be celebrated in exuberance just like in Guyana, Trinidad or Suriname. The parades and the celebration at the various parks render unnecessary the need to go house to house to celebrate or to pour abeer on revellers as is done in the Caribbean.

In fact, it is impractical for people to celebrate Phagwah by going house to house.

People can spray abeer and sprinkle powder on one another at the outdoor celebration even if it is done in difficult freezing weather.

It is an impressive celebration that brings back memories of the celebration in the Caribbean. It is necessary to salute the people who initiated and launched the Phagwah parade in 1990. I was closely connected with the founders since 1990 and provided advice and support as well as coverage in the local media during the planning and organising of the first parade.

I am pleased that the parade has become institutionalised as part of the celebration of the festival. I applaud the organising committee of the Phagwah celebration for its dedication and hard work in putting together parade year after year.

Observing Holi with a parade and observing other Indian festivals in NY help to enhance a sense of pride and admiration for the rich cultural heritage of Indians and foster unity among Caribbean people.

The celebration promotes a common feeling of togetherness and rekindles the flame of love and unity among friends and loved-ones.

Community leaders must continue to promote these kinds of festivals.

Regards, Vishnu Bisram

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, march 25, 2016

5

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

Political discrimination How much taxpayers' and executive bullyism $$ sent to New York for Dear Editor, If anyone needs to be convinced of the road the APNU/ AFC is taking this country, then an event that occurred last week should clarify this matter.

It is very clear that this regime is the continuation of the PNC government of the 1970s and ’80s. Their methods of governance are vindictive, at which racial and political discrimination is at its heart.

In the main newspapers last week, there was a notice informing the public that the President had signed an order revoking lands from scores of farmers (small farmers at that). These lands were awarded by the MMM/ ADA to small-scale farmers who owned no farming land.

These lands were under the control of a co-op society.

Like most co-ops in the country, it was transformed from a ‘co-op’ to a de facto, privately-owned entity.

Four or more persons, claiming to be the executive controllers of these lands, leased it out and were collecting huge rents from its use.

They also collected drainage and irrigation fees from persons and never remitted these sums to the MMA. It is clear that they ran the place as if it was their personal property. These persons owed the MMA some $40M for D&I services.

Many persons, some of whom were members of the said co-op, petitioned the Ministry of Agriculture to disband this entity since it was clearly not a co-op society, but was being used as a tool to allow a handful of persons to get rich.

It should be noted that the four (or more) persons who were solely benefitting from this scheme were leading members of the PNC/ APNU in the area.

In 2013, under pressure from many landless farmers from the West Coast Berbice, the MMA engaged in discussions with the landless and poor villagers who issued the call. As a result of those consultations, and the fact that the ‘co-op’ was collecting D&I fees and not remitting it to the MMA, it was decided to grant leases to those villag-

ers.

Some sixty farmers were granted leases amounting to 16-20 acres each. These persons were from the villages where the land was situated and all the farmers were Afro-Guyanese.

After the 2015 elections, the ‘owners’ of the coop moved to seize the lands from the farmers. They got the police involved and even moved to reap the crops on the land!

Clear evidence of bullyboy tactics - an outstanding characteristic of the PNC/ APNU! Some of the farmers took legal action and the court held that the lands were legally leased to the farmers and could not be arbitrarily repossessed.

It was after this court ruling that the PNC used its executive power to repossess the land in favour of the four (or more) PNC activists.

The President signed an order to take away the lands from more than sixty farmers (small Afro-Guyanese farmers) and give it to his comrades from the elite.

A clear judgment of discrimination and vindictiveness can, therefore, be made against the regime from the outcome of this scenario.

The main concern here seems to be the facts that these small farmers were granted lands during the PPP/C administration.

Maybe part of the money collected by the PNC/APNU activists went to the PNC’s coffers. The regime also seems upset by the fact that some of these farmers sought legal assistance from former Attorney General Anil

Nandlall, who took the matter to court and won a judgment in their (the farmers) favour.

Therefore, for the PNC/ APNU, this was a sellout by these farmers, who tried to defend themselves and their livelihood from PNC bullyism. Now, they are being taught a lesson not to cross the path of the PNC/APNU. The regime will use state power to smash anyone they perceive as being against them and/or their policies.

The philosophy of the paramountcy of the PNC has been resuscitated. This belief is that the state is the executive arm of the PNC (now APNU), therefore, state power is to be used in the interest of the party.

While one of the main characteristics of governance of the APNU/AFC regime was discrimination against Indo-Guyanese, this kind of discrimination is different.

This is clearly political discrimination at its finest.

Here we have small, vulnerable Afro-Guyanese farmers whose livelihoods are being threatened. The vindictive actions of the regime are to intimidate Afro-Guyanese, who are aggrieved by the actions of the PNC/APNU, to not go against them. They expect such persons to go cap-inhand and beg for mercy.

Approaching the PPP for help is punishable by the loss of one’s livelihood.

This action is a clear case of executive vindictiveness and political discrimination.

Yours truly, Donald Ramotar

independence wine-up?

Dear Editor, Reference is to the letter in SN of 3-24-16 titled “Granger to attend NY Jubilee dinner in June” Can anyone credibly confirm or explain how much Guyanese taxpayers money is being spent to fund this New York jump-up and winedown for Independence?

Initial reports says it was US$300. This includes a symposium which features Dr David Hinds as a panellist and reportedly a Marlyanne Narayan who has no known political visibility.

They will reportedly be speaking on National iden-

tity. Both are non-resident Guyanese living in the US. How does their NY symposium impact us here in Guyana? Is it to be streamed live on the internet for all to see in Guyana?

Clarification is requested whether the Guyanese taxpayers’ money was sent directly to the committee headed by long-standing PNC strongman Rickford Burke? Are all the members of the committee paid employees? If not all how many and who? The committee has a lawyer. Is he being paid?

Which government agency is disbursing the taxpayers’ money if it was not sent

directly to the committee?

What accountability measures are in place to safeguard from corruption and waste?

With Guyanese losing their jobs; why is the Guyana Government funding an overseas bash when it will not be multi-ethnic in attendance anyway?

Shouldn’t that money have been used here locally?

Answers or clarifications would be most welcome from government sources not the New York committee recipients.

Regards, Sultan Mohamed

Wakenaam residential drainage trench’s breeding place for mosquitoes Dear Editor, Kindly permit me space in your letter column to publish my letter which is of great importance to the community and nation as a whole.

In all the newspapers and on the radio and television, the general public is being warned to take precautions against the spread of mosquitoes and the Zika Virus by having all containers that can hold water properly covered.

Well, the Noitgedacht, Wakenaam drainage

trench in the residential area running along the public road is silted up and in most places, has two inches to four inches of water, which is stagnant and smells very bad due to the dead fishes, etc, in it. The residents have to endure this as well as the mosquitoes which are breeding in the said trench.

I am asking the Government to look into this matter and have this trench dug as soon as possible before the Zika Virus or any other epidemic breaks

out in the area.

The Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) staff is very young and inexperienced and needs guidance from higher authorities.

Your usual and kind cooperation is being anticipated in publishing this letter in an effort to have something done before it is too late.

Thank you.

Yours faithfully, Shiv Persaud Resident

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friDAY, march 25, 2016

Page Foundation Why you shouldn’t judge the parents of the ‘naughty’ child – all parents are up against big challenges, and the parents of a child who misbehaves are often up against a lot more

By Sarah Bregel

F

rom the time my first baby stepped her tiny feet into her preschool classroom with its lavender walls and wooden toys, she made friends easily. She was interested in the other children from the get-go and was kind and gentle with them. Pushing, shoving and fighting over toys just weren’t her thing. Even as a toddler, parents and teachers didn’t have a harsh word to say about her. She was an only child, and she just wanted other children to play with. It was as if she had already decided, at the ripe old age of 2 1/2, to be easy-going. She simply came to play.

I was only the mother of one at the time, and I didn’t know enough then to be amazed as her list of twoand three-year-old companions grew quickly and without conflict. She made friends at the park, at the play gym and the library. She often played with another child for 10 minutes, then put me in the awkward position of promptly scheduling a playdate at our house for that afternoon. She was likeable, and at the time, I patted myself on my semi-new parent back and said “my, what a good job I’ve done.”

Then on one occasion, to my surprise, a child in my daughter’s preschool class bit her. I was helping her put on her shoes at pick-up when the teacher, with her soft voice and long flowy hair, came over to tell me about what had happened. She lifted up my daughter’s sleeve to show me the marks on her arm that were deep black and blue. It was the first time anyone had hurt my child, and although she was fully recovered, I was dumbfounded. “How dare he bite my precious baby?!” I thought.

I secretly wondered what the child’s parents weren’t teaching him and pegged him “the biter” in my mind.

Fast-forward to a few years down the road and my daughter is no longer an only child. She has a toddler brother who came out of the womb with a completely different disposition than she has. He also happens to be a “biter” at not much younger than my daughter was when she entered preschool. Most of the time, he’s happy-go-lucky, but he has a sort of roughness that I’ve still to this day, never seen from my older child, who is now six. He hits, kicks and throws himself backwards on the floor in epic tantrums at the drop of a hat. His bites have caused tears from my daughter and shrieks of pain from both my husband and me on many occasions. He’s broken skin and left bruises, all while smirking in delight at a job well done.

So far, his rough behaviour has stayed inside of our four walls. But I’m sure that won’t always be the case. Because, even though we’ve tried repeatedly to teach him not to hit or bite, he does it anyway.

He bites when he’s happy and playing, and he bites when he’s having a tantrum. He’ll grin from ear to ear, wind up and whack you in the face with all his might at the drop of a hat. And the more you yell “No!” as you cover your face and pray he lets up soon, the harder it gets. He hits, bites, pushes and is rougher than any 21-month-old kid I’ve ever met in my life. And while his transgressions haven’t caused him social conflicts quite yet, I can only imagine that one day soon, they probably will.

Over the years, I’ve learned that child behaviour is not as cut and dried as I once might’ve believed. Some kids aren’t born with a “don’t hit” and “be gentle” button, and it takes time to

nurture those things. No two children are alike, and having a son that hits and bites is further confirmation of that fact. And while before I was a seasoned parent, I thought the only thing that resulted from good parenting was kind and obedient children, now I know otherwise. In fact, I’ve met plenty of wonderful parents over the years with children who seem like they go out looking for

trouble. I’ve come to believe that it’s one of the great lessons of parenting – that you can’t control everything your children do. Your child’s personality is not always about you or a reflection of everything you’re doing wrong.

And if you believe it is, it will likely make you go a little crazy.

When I encounter a rough or disobedient child, I don’t judge these things like I would have years ago, and I ask my children to be understanding, whenever possible. Instead of pegging the child as a “bad kid”, I think of the struggles the parents must encounter at home. I think of my own difficult evenings with my own rambunctious toddler, as I struggle to make dinner while reasoning with an illogical, hitting, biting, tantrumthrowing maniac looming at my feet and conspiring against me. Because most parents agree, children with an edge are typically much more badly behaved in the comfort of their own homes than in the sandbox.

These days, I’m not one to make assumptions or point fingers about other people’s children or parenting tactics.

Too many factors go into childrearing to make those kind of snap judgments. Giving parents the benefit of the doubt and exercising compassion don’t hurt anybody. No, I’m not going to bring every child who causes trouble home on a playdate. But rude behaviour from a child who is still learning won’t stop me from being kind and understanding to that child’s parent.

All parenting struggles are not created equal, and we’re the ones who should be teaching kindness. (parenting.com)

guyanatimesgy.com

How to discuss Internet safety with your teen (Conclusion)

As you have seen, there are a number of different ways that you can go about discussing Internet safety with your teenager. Remember to do so, however, before it is too late. Any child who uses the Internet should be well aware of the dangers that lurk.

4 signs that your teenager may be in trouble online There are four signs that your teenager may be in trouble online. If any of these signs apply to your child, you will want to take action right away.

They get on the computer at the same time every day. What many parents do not realise is that children and teenagers can easily become targets of online child predators. Many also do not realise that this process doesn’t always happen overnight. Some child predators pretend to be the ages of their targets. They then work to gain the trust of those targets. This can take a few days or a few weeks. You may be able to tell if this is happening though if your child gets on the Internet at the same time, every single day. This is a good sign that they are communicating directly with someone, who may not have pure intentions.

They are secretive when they use the computer. How does your child act when they are using the computer? Does your child try to hide what they are doing online from you? If they automatically shut off the computer or put a game on the screen, they may be trying to prevent you from seeing what they are doing online. This is a good sign that your child may be doing something they shouldn’t be doing online, like having direct, personal conversations with a stranger, who may be a child predator.

They are very happy when getting off the computer.-If your child is overly happy when they sign off the Internet, they may be on the path to trouble. This sign can be a little bit tricky though. Your child may be happy because they just finished a long school project, but you honestly never know. If your teenager is communicating with someone online, they may be in the process of starting a relationship, which they are happy about. Unfortunately, many teenagers do not realise that anyone can hide behind a computer. That is why it is important that you talk to your child about the dangers of starting an online romance.

They are very depressed. As previously stated, your child may be very happy when using the Internet, but another warning sign is that they are depressed, especially when they sign off the computer. What many parents do not realise is that other teenagers use the Internet for harassment. If your teenager has a falling out with one of their friends, they may find themselves being harassed online. If that is the case, your child may seem very down, depressed, and withdrawn.

The four abovementioned signs are just a few of the many that you will want to look for to see if your child is in trouble online. With that said, there are additional signs that you will want to be on the lookout for, the biggest being a change in behaviour. If you do suspect that your child has or is about to run into trouble online, be sure to talk to them and as soon as possible. (Excerpt from

childdevelopmentinfo.com)

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friDAY, march 25, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

2016 LGE results

PPP/C beats APNU/AFC coalition by 28,000 votes

…more and more Guyanese losing confidence in Govt – Opposition Leader

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pposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo said the overwhelming majority of Guyanese who threw their support behind the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) at the Local Government Elections (LGE) is a clear indication that the general populace has lost confidence in the incumbent A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government.

In fact, he said it is quite interesting to note that the PPP/C won 28,000 more votes than the APNU/AFC when the voter turnout was just below 50 per cent whereas in the National Elections 2015, the marginal difference was a mere 5000 votes.

“If you take 50 per cent of the votes that we got in 2015 and you put it in the PPP column, we would be talking about something like 33,000 votes more than APNU/AFC but as it stands now, leav-

PPP/C had no contest like Crabwood Creek and Black Bush Polder.

He also disclosed that the PPP/C won a whopping 754 seats of the 1166 which were up for grabs whereas the APNU/AFC scraped to secure 375.

This, he said, translates into the PPP/C gaining control of over 48 of the 71 Local Authority areas, with APNU/AFC winning 16 and the remaining seven areas showing a tie between the two parties.

Furthermore, the Opposition Leader took pride in giving a further breakdown of the results and disclosed that the PPP/C succeeded in penetrating several APNU/AFC strongholds like Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo’s hometown of Whim.

“Nagamootoo got wiped out in Whim!” Jagdeo declared.

Jagdeo added that the

ing out those areas… we won 28,000 more votes than APNU in elections, “This magnifies basically the showing of the PPP because with only a 47 per cent turnout, we won 28,000 more than APNU/AFC, 25,000 by GECOM’s number,” Jagdeo stated.

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) reported that the PPP/C won by reining in a total 123,564 votes, some 24,894 more than the coalition government which gained 98,670 votes.

But Jagdeo explained that the figures are incorrect because GECOM did not take into consideration the areas where the

Party managed to multiply its existing support in areas such as those along the Essequibo Coast.

He concluded that the low turnout in many of the APNU/AFC-dominated areas is a sign that people are beyond disgruntled with “this concept of the ‘good life’ that a few people seem to enjoy.”

“As I’ve said before, government seems to live in this cocoon that everyone is doing well,” Jagdeo posited, making references to the sufferance of the rice farmers and sugar workers.

That aside, he conceded that the Party’s campaign was lacklustre and that more focus should have been di-

7

rected in the various municipalities around the county.

“I do not think we competed effectively in the City, in Linden, New Amsterdam and some other areas… we will change that, will hit the ground in Linden, in New Amsterdam and in Lethem,” he said, noting that Party members will embark on a mission to convince APNU/ AFC supporters that the PPP/C has a better plan for the development of Guyana.

Meanwhile, the LGE results according to regions show: the PPP/C receiving 1422 votes and the APNU/ AFC receiving 1470 in Region One (Barima-Waini).

In Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), the PPP/C secured 11,146 votes while the APNU/AFC secured 3021.

In Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), the PPP/C ran away with 28,983, while the APNU/AFC took 11,896 votes.

In Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), the PPP/C secured 37,692 votes while Government followed with 23,047.

Region Five (MahaicaBerbice), the PPP moved ahead with 9411, while the APNU/AFC secured 8783.

In Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), the Opposition secured 27,427 votes, while the APNU/AFC got 10,021.

Regions Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) and Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo), saw Government leading with 2132 and 662 respectively, while the Opposition followed with 853 and 457 respectively.

In Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), Government took a sweeping victory by securing 7412 votes, while the Opposition secured a meagre 417.

Out of the 507,584 eligible voters in LGE, 239,070 persons or 47 per cent voted.

Out of the total votes cast, 2744 were invalid.

President claims LGE paved way for economic development

President David Granger, outgoing GCCI President Lance Hinds, Junior Vice President Padma Kunjbeharry and GCCI Secretary Nicholas Boyer at the AGM on Thursday

P

resident David Granger on Thursday posited that the recent Local Government Elections (LGE) paved the way for economic development in Guyana as it presents the opportunity to promote business and drive economic development for the modernisation of the various municipalities.

As such, he stated that it is imperative that Government, as well as the private sector, ensure that efforts of development are not concentrated solely in the capital City, but spread throughout the country.

Granger was at the time addressing shareholders and stakeholders at the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) 126th Annual General Meeting (AGM), at the Pegasus Hotel, Georgetown.

"Guyana's hinterland and rural landscape will be opened for orderly development. Our towns will lead this charge and in the process, create boundless business opportunities for the business community in Guyana. Our aim is to modernise local government and to catapult our municipalities into the 21st century. Our objective is to catalyse the economies of our towns and communities... Tremendous opportunities for all will unfold as we boost the economies of our regions through the instrumentality of our 'capital towns'. The challenges

that present themselves will be dwarfed by the opportunities for economic growth that lie ahead," he stated.

The Head of State further posited that the LGE has renewed economic opportunities for innovation, investment and infrastructural development, saying: “The elections for our Neighbourhood Democratic Councils and municipalities paved the way for a change in the way our towns and communities are governed.

They also paved the way for a reappraisal of the contribution they can make toward creating economically powerful regions.”

He further related that with the Official Gazette published on October 21, 2015 authorising the establishment of three new

towns, namely; Bartica, Lethem, and Mabaruma, along with Mahdia, which is slated to become a town later this year, a 'capital town' mind-set will be instilled in these areas which will see the role of towns in moving beyond providing traditional municipal services.

“The new emphasis should be on promoting business, driving economic development and giving leadership to our regions.

Guyana will develop only if regions are strong. Our regions must no longer be viewed as mere administrative appendages of the Central Government. Our regions must become motors of economic growth. The potential of our regions is indisputable," Granger iterated.

8 news

friDAY, march 25, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Industry seaman stabbed to death by cousin

S

hockwaves rippled through the quiet community of Industry, on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD), after residents learnt that a seaman was fatally stabbed to death, allegedly by his cousin on Wednesday afternoon.

Guyana Times was told that the dead man, whose name was only given as “Rajesh”, also known as “Bushman”, was out drinking with his cousin and upon arriving in front of his residence, the two became embroiled in a heated argument.

Reports indicate that “Rajesh” and his cousin got into a physical fight, with the cousin allegedly using a broken beer or rum bottle to stab “Rajesh” about his body.

The house where “Rajesh” lived

One source told this publication that the man died in front of his neighbour’s residence moments after the last stab wound was inflicted.

“You could say he almost died right away because by the time his body hit the ground and other people reach there, he looked like he was already dead. In fact, by the time the Police get

called and reach there, he was dead. So when he reach the hospital, we all know was a dead body going there,” a neighbour stated.

According to other residents in the neighbourhood, “Rajesh” had recently returned from sea and was known to go out and “have a few drinks” with relatives and close friends whenever

he returned from sea.

Neighbours related that the now dead man lived alone in a ‘shack’ behind his nephew’s house and was “not a troublemaker”.

“We don’t know why he nephew didn’t just let him live there in the house and so with him. Even if the man wanted to live in the lil shack he nephew should have make sure he was comfortable there since he done get a mansion for himself. But that is their story and now the man dead and the next relative got to pay for the crime,” one woman related.

Guyana Times understands that the alleged murderer has been taken into Police custody and is presently assisting ranks with the investigation.

Smyth Street murder accused remanded

M

orris Prince, 31, who was arrested and charged for the murder of Oriley Small on Thursday last week made his appearance before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

He was not required to plead to the indictable charge which alleged that on March 19, 2016 at Smyth Street, Georgetown, he murdered Oriley Small.

His attorney Mike Valdren made an unsuccessful application for bail and Prince was remanded to prison.

He will next appear in court on April 14.

Oriley was gunned down

Morris Prince

moments after returning home from a night club. His body was discovered at approximately 03:00h by his mother.

Based on reports, Oriley had just returned home when gunmen approached

him and opened fire. He was reportedly shot to the head, hand, feet, abdomen and eyes.

Guyana Times understands that Morris Prince called “Max” of Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was arrested shortly after the shooting incident.

Small was of questionable character being charged on numerous occasions. Back in 2013, he was charged with break and enter and larceny committed on Central Electronics located on Robb Street, Georgetown.

It was alleged that he along with an accomplice, David Lynch broke and entered Central Electronics and stole a quantity of

items, which included a flat screen television and a metal safe, along with an undisclosed sum of cash.

Also in February 2013, he was fingered in an attempted robbery of Wayne Heber at Premneranjan Place, Prashad Nagar which left three bandits dead.

Those killed were Tony Ogle, 42, called ‘Skin Teeth’ and‘Ninja’ of Callendar Street, Albouystown, Leon Gittens, 24, called ‘Cow’ of Hill Street, Albouystown and Shawn Brown.

In addition, Small was shot along with four others during a shooting at the National Cultural Centre, Mandela Avenue, back in 2009.

Man jailed for 3 years for narcotics charge

A

man on Thursday appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts and was jailed for three years on a charge of possession of narcotics.

Roy Singh of Kitty, Georgetown, pleaded guilty to the charge which read that on March 17, 2016 at

Kitty, Georgetown, he had in his possession two grams of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.

The prosecution’s facts stated that on the day in question, at around 16:00h, the defendant was picked up by police and taken to the Kitty Police Station for questioning on a simple larceny matter.

While at the station, a search was conducted on his person and one transparent Ziploc bad was found, which contained four white rocklike substances later identified as cocaine.

The substance was weighed in his presence. He was cautioned and arrested.

Singh told the court that on the day in ques-

tion, he was walking on the road when he saw the item, picked it up and pocketed it.

He explained that he did not know what was in the bag.

Magistrate McGusty told the defendant not to pick up anything off of the road and then sentenced him.

He was also fined $30,000.

Eyew tness New World...

T

...in oil

he Rockefeller name mightn’t mean much to Guyanese nowadays. But not too long ago that name was the metaphor for WEALTH in the modern world just as Croesus was in the ancient world… and it’s not just “Rockefeller Center” with its skating rink we might see in Midtown Manhattan. Their wealth was founded on oil - first in Pennsylvania and then in Saudi Arabia. Their “Standard Oil” became “Esso” (“S.O.” - get it?) that then became “Exxon” that became ExxonMobil.

Even though they mightn’t be such big deals in a world now populated with the likes of billionaires Bill Gates and Mark Zukerberg, they do have a helluva lot of clout with the crime de la crime of the Wall Street Masters of the Universe - who make the trillion dollar investments that make the world go round. Their Chase Manhattan Bank became a big part of JPMorganChase - the largest bank in the world with US$3 trillion in assets! The trusts they set up to keep their wealth all in the family fund - and not just the Rockefeller Fund - have probably even more influence through “soft power” of their philanthropic activities and fund raising parties.

So when the Rockefeller Foundations announced they are pulling out their investments in ExxonMobil, it’s like the foundation under a skyscraper being undermined.

The Rockefellers announced they will now be backing renewables - which ExxonMobil has shunned, unlike the other majors like British Shell. Your Eyewitness had already pontificated on the folly of Exxon to follow in the path of the captain of the Titanic and yell, “Full steam ahead” in petroleum.

Exxon, of course, has not only been burying its head in the sand, it’s been throwing some of that sand in the investment world’s eyes when they hid data of the impact of fossil fuel consumption on global warming. The Rockefeller family had made noises then - even as the NY District Attorney was readying chances against the company that will result in billions in fines.

Following the commitment of COP 21 to renewables, the refusal of Saudi Arabia to back off from the Shale Oil challenge, and the plunge in oil prices, Exxon stocks have taken a beating. Shareholders aren’t going to take too kindly to the dumping of the company’s stock by the “founding family”.

Now all of this might just be of academic interest if it weren’t for the fact that most of our hopes on getting our oil out from under the sea, rests with ExxonMobil. That company has to look more closely on its investments.

If ours remain marginal even at US$50 - we’re in big trouble.

...and old Sawakie? Or Sakiwinkie?

After 22 years as Mayor of Georgetown - during which time he brought the City down to its nadir of filth and corruption (they probably go hand in hand) - and now 82 years old, you’d think it was time for Hamilton Green to be put out to pasture, wouldn’t you? Especially since he’s just been booted out by the citizens of Georgetown the first chance they got at voting for their Mayor in the said 22 years.

Well... think again. The powers-that-be have now placed him in charge of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) - the body that controls all the government’s housing, planning and executing for the country!

Why? Well because he was once “Minister of Housing” (the Stabber reports). Green says it’s because he’s a “Sawakie” (they mean “Sakawinkie - an “old head”!) What a crock! Housing then and housing now are like mud huts and skyscrapers... not even in the same league.

Green probably has the goods on someone on the Rodney assassination!

...and economic growth

Some old head over at COHSOD figures our “culture” might turn our economic tide. He REALLY thinks our “wining” can compete with the newly emergent Cuba with its rhumba, salsa, samba and cha-Cha-cha?

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

friDAY, march 25, 2016

Father of 3 stabbed to death at Skull City – 2 arrested as Police probe incident

A

The bridge the man crossed prior to collapsing

father of three was on Wednesday evening stabbed to death during an argument at Skull City, Patentia, West Bank Demerara.

Dellon Bradford, 25, of Patentia Housing Scheme succumbed while at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

The dead man also referred to as “Chicken” was reportedly stabbed three times.

Initial reports stated that the man had broken into the home of Ruth Ramdoo of Lot 1 Skull City, Patentia, while she was at her mother’s house on Wednesday evening. After receiving information about the breakage, she rushed home where she allegedly caught him red handed.

This according to reports, led to a scuffle where Bradford was stabbed several times. He was rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital but transferred to the GPH where died.

However, Bradford’s relatives refuted the claims made by family of the man’s reputed wife. His sister, Simone Williams explained that he and his child-moth-

er, Anita, had an argument after she refused to go home with him. She was reportedly consuming alcohol with her relatives.

‘After she refused to go home with meh brother, meh brother tell she that he will not move until she go home

they catch he in the house with the money, but is a lie”.

However, she noted the stabbing occurred while she was at home but a friend of her brother’s informed her of the stabbing and she immediately rushed to the scene where she saw her brother covered in blood.

With assistance of others, he was rushed to the WDRH but it took some time before they could have attended to him. “While he was on de bed, he fall off and that cause the blood to spill all ova… He get stab at he abdomen and back”, she noted.

Due to the stab abdomen, his intestines had already started to protrude, the sister added. She also claimed that the doctors at

The house Bradford is accused of breaking in to

with he… this start the argument… we then heard one of she cousin walked into the house and collect two knives and come out back and is then they stab he”, she explained.

After the stabbing, she noted they had accused him of breaking into Ramdoo’s house and stealing $200,000.

“They tell the police that

the WDRH took some time before making a decision to transfer him to GPH. “After they decide to take him to public hospital, it tek the ambulance 30 minutes or more to reach at the Bess Hospital… when we reach at Public, we went in the room with him but the doctors tell we that we have to go out… after some time, they come

out back and tell we the bad news”, the woman cried.

Telling his side of the story Royston Phillips, a friend of the dead man told Guyana Times that Bradford was at his house for the entire day and that the allegation made against him was false. He noted that the father of three left his house at about 18:30h and went to his in-laws to collect his childmother who was “drinking”.

He recalled that as he arrived at the house, he heard an argument. “They de accusing “Chicken” of thiefing some power amp and speaker but not any $200,000”, he added.

Soon after, Phillips noted that he saw Bradford crossing a bridge and as he reached in front of his house, he collapsed. As he checked on Bradford, he saw blood oozing from at least three parts of his body including his abdomen.

“I tek a jersey and wrap the hold but he guts de done coming out… I pick he up and walked with him until we get a taxi… we then tek he to the hospital”, he recalled.

Guyana Times understands that Bradford only returned to the village about a week ago after spending some time on a chicken far in Timehri, East Bank Demerara.

Meanwhile, the police in a statement confirmed that two persons - a man and woman - were arrested and are being questioned about the murder.

Bradford leaves to mourn his three children, four siblings and other relatives.

news

9

| guyanatimesGY.com

Corruption at CJIA’s Customs Dept

Implicated officers sent home to facilitate probe – GRA Board Chairman

By Edward Layne

C

ustoms Officers of the Guyana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) who were implicated in a multimillion-dollar corruption scheme at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri, East Bank Demerara, have been sent on leave pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation, Chairman of the GRA Board, Rawle Lucas has confirmed.

Lucas told Guyana Times on Thursday that while the investigations date back many years, the crew most recently implicated were sent off.

“Based upon my understanding, the crew which has been recent most at the airport, they were asked to go off, but I don’t know who might have been there for how long and so forth,” he stated in a brief comment to Guyana Times.

When asked about how soon the investigations could be wrapped up, the GRA Chairman said he anticipates the probe taking sometime, since the investigators were examining multiple years.

Further, Lucas could not say who was conducting the investigations, noting that he is still to receive a full brief on the matter.

Chief of Criminal Investigations of the Guyana Police Force, Superintendent Wendell Blanhum told this publication on Thursday that

GRA Board Chairman Rawle Lucas

thus far, he is not aware of the Force being asked to investigate the alleged corruption.

Additionally, Head of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) Sydney James said his Unit was not asked by the GRA or anyone to probe the alleged corruption scheme.

Sources told this publication that seven officers were implicated in the corruption ring. The GRA in a statement on Tuesday said it uncovered a revenue leakage racket at its CJIA branch where its officers were colluding with businessmen to defraud the Authority of millions of State revenues.

It said the scheme, which dates back several years, is linked to a select group of importers who are allowed to clear goods without paying the correct or prescribed amount of duties.

10 news

friDAY, march 25, 2016| guyanatimesGY.com

Venezuela still buying Guyana’s rice – Govt

Prison CoI

Contraband not strange to Georgetown Prison – inmate G

A

n inmate who posted images on social media site Facebook of himself with large quantities of marijuana inside the Camp Street Prison, in Georgetown, said contraband, including drugs and weapons, are nothing new to the prison.

The inmate, 27-year-old Collis Collison on Thursday told a three-member Commission of Inquiry (CoI) probing the May 3, 2016 riot – which left 17 inmates dead and several other injured – that apart from drugs, inmates have improvised weapons, scissors and razor blades.

Collison is one of several inmates who have been maintaining active Facebook profiles and make daily posts. On several occasions in the past, prison authorities seized large quantities of marijuana and weapons.

At least on one occasion, an attempt was made to smuggle a gun into the penitentiary.

Meanwhile, Collison told the Commission that when the fires started on March 2, he queried with the agitators, but was told to keep out since it does not concern him.

“Remember sir, the prisoners words to me earlier on was nothing ain’t concerning me…

I can’t talk against 50 or something man. So I hold my corner and block my face,” the repeat offender said under cross-examination by Attorney Selwyn

Inmate Collis Collison

Pieters, who is representing the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Prison Service.

On March 2, nine fires were lit and according to Collison, there was total chaos on that day as inmates rushed to secure their possessions.

“People all over the place running up and down... there was water all over the place, people trying to secure their food and these kinds of things,” he recalled.

On March 3, a deadly fire was set in the Capital A block of the prison which claimed the lives of 17 inmates, while injuring several others.

Speaking specifically about the deadly riot on March 3, Collison stated that he was assaulted and dragged by pris-

on officials after he exited the burning Capital A Dormitory.

“Some officers shackling me feet, some shackling me arm and he cuffing me in my face…They hold me by the chain for the foot cuff and the hand cuff and they pick me up and run with me… then they drag me, ” he said, while being led by Commission Counsel Excellence Dazzle.

He presumed that other inmates who stayed in the engulfed building may have done so because they were scared they would have received similar treatment to which he was subjected to.

“I wouldn’t be able to say why they run back in but I would suggest that is fear,” he said. Some other prisoners who testified before the Commission have claimed they were locked inside the burning building by prison officials, while others said wardens made unsuccessful attempts to open the door to the burning building.

Several other prisoners have already testified before the three-member Commission established at the behest of President David Granger to probe the deadly prison riot.

The prison was rioted over a raid on the facility by Joint Services, during which a number of illegal items, including cellular phone and drugs were seized.

overnment is of the view that the Spanish-speaking nation of Venezuela might still be purchasing Guyana’s rice, albeit not through the former means, but via neighbouring Suriname.

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman said Government received a hunch that rice farmers in Berbice may still be shipping their products to Venezuela, through Suriname.

Venezuela, almost a year ago, ended its rice trade agreement with Guyana, which was carried out through the PetroCaribe deal – a pact that saw Guyana paying for Venezuela’s oil with rice produced here. However, the Natural Resources Minister said the alleged deal is said to be raking in a significantly higher price than what is being offered on the world market. Addressing journalists at Government’s postCabinet media briefing on Thursday, Trotman said Government has taken note of the stark increase of rice production in the Berbice region.

“I know, for example, that Venezuela is buying from Suriname and there are suggestions that some of our rice is travelling to Venezuela via Suriname.

Certainly, there seems to be an uptake in rice farming in the Corentyne, so there is something happening there, so the prospects look good,” Trotman said.

Venezuela in October 2015 made its intention official that it was no longer interested in receiving Guyana’s rice, when it struck a deal with Suriname.

Venezuela had said that it was seeking the exchange for fuel and rice at “favourable prices”.

The Presidents of the two countries had reached an agreement for the Spanishspeaking country to provide oil to the Dutch-speaking Caribbean Community (Caricom) country in exchange for rice.

Thousands of farmers have since been affected by Venezuela’s move to discontinue the rice for oil deal with Guyana. The historic rice deal sealed by the previous People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government with the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela several years

from going ahead with its planned exploratory drilling activity, on a concession awarded by Guyana, offshore its Essequibo Coast.

Venezuela has repeatedly laid claim to the area being explored, ignoring an 1899 Arbitral Tribunal Award, which was declared as the full and final settlement of the boundary between the two South American nations. Following the discovery of oil-bearing rocks in the area, Venezuela’s aggression grew stronger.

However, ExxonMobil

A rice shipment from Guyana to Venezuela

ago, saw Guyana receiving oil in exchange for rice.

Long before the crisis concerning the future of PetroCaribe, the political unrest and economic difficulties which had coincided with President Nicolás Maduro’s accession to office had raised questions about the future of the agreement.

Things began taking a slant in May 2015 when United States oil and gas giant ExxonMobil announced that it had found more than 295 feet of high-quality oilbearing sandstone reservoirs. In early March, the oil and gas company, one of the largest in the world, was warned by the Spanishspeaking nation to refrain

assured that it will not be intimidated by the country’s claims and will continue its work in Guyana’s offshore waters. The multibilliondollar oil exploration project, which is expected to be executed over 10 years, got underway in early March.

Venezuela had been by far the major market for Guyana’s rice and paddy, accounting for around 60 per cent of total exports in 2010. In 2014, exports to Venezuela accounted for approximately 38 per cent of total exports though the overall tonnage exported (150,000 tonnes of rice and 50,000 tonnes of paddy) far exceeded the 2013 export levels.

Police yet to submit Gilhuys’s telephone records to DPP

O

ver a month after the arrest of Attorney Gordon Gilhuys in Linden, E Division (Linden/ Kwakwani) Police are yet to submit telephone records to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Commander of the Division Calvin Brutus said telephone records in relation to the case are yet to be submitted before the Police can receive advice on moving forward with the case.

He established however that Police are still awaiting the records from the telephone service provider.

Gilhuys was charged last month with attempting to pervert the course of justice in a statutory rape case. Police in Linden said they were investigating the rape matter, allegedly committed against a 16-yearold Lindener by accused, Michael Franklin, 23, whose lawyer is Gilhuys.

According to reports, the

rape is alleged to have occurred sometime in January.

Gilhuys was arrested at the Linden Magistrate’s Court and taken to the Mackenzie Police Station by Inspector Singh but later released on $10,000 station bail.

Reports from the Mackenzie Police Station indicated that the Attorney approached Corporal Sabrina Quimby, urging her to prepare a false statement in favour of his client.

It is alleged that he told the Corporal to prepare the statement stating that the victim did not wish to pursue the matter and did not want any further Police action. Further reports indicate that there were also telephone calls made by Gilhuys and the accused to the victim and her mother in attempt to pervert the course of justice.

The Attorney has however denied those claims, according to Police. Gilhuys’s

client, Franklin, 23, is presently before the Linden Magistrates Court on another rape charge for which he was granted bail in the sum of $200,000 on December 30, 2015.

The man, who hails from Lot 223 Block 22, Wismar, Linden, is charged with engaging in sexual penetration of a female without her consent on July 23, 2015. The incident allegedly occurred at One Mile, Wismar.

Commander Brutus said the Attorney also caused the suspect and his mother to approach the victim and her mother, allegedly to have them drop the charge. The issue was reportedly reported to Probation and Welfare officers in Linden.

Brutus said there is evidence contained in the file, which was sent to the DPP, including text messages, among other things, of efforts by Gilhuys to obstruct the course of justice.

friDay, march 25, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

11

News

Debt collection unit recommended for GINA … over $300M owed by Govt Ministries, agencies

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orensic Auditors have recommended that the Government Information Agency (GINA) urgently establish a debt collection committee to recoup hundreds of millions of dollars owed to the entity by a number of Government Ministries and entities over the years.

The audit was conducted by Forensic Auditor Harryram Parmesar, and in a six-page report, it was recommended, among others, that the committee be established forthwith, “with specific responsibility to collect all outstanding debts within six months.”

It is said that Government Ministries and other State entities owe GINA over $134 million for advertisements the Government mouthpiece placed with the various media entities in Guyana.

Media monitors

The report noted that three media monitors were employed by GINA during the year 2014 to monitor television programmes and newspaper articles for content and provide a report.

“While employees were contracted by GINA, they were not located at GINA neither did they perform any duties for GINA or report to any official at GINA. They were working at the

Forensic Auditor Harryram Parmesar

Office of the President and reporting to Mr Kwame McCoy. On a monthly basis, all employees were required to submit an invoice for payment to GINA. Employees were required to uplift payments from GINA,” the audit report stated.

It said that these three employees cost GINA some $2.4 million for 2014.

“Action should be taken to recover the amount of $2,395,000 paid to media monitors,” the report stated.

“The Guyanese” newspaper/TV programme

The report also cited that between October 2014 and May 2015, the Agency paid over $20 million for the printing and distribution of “The Guyanese” newspaper and $8.4 million for television

and radio programmes; all in New York, United States.

The monies, the report said, was paid to a Rajiv Sanchar, but no revenue was received by GINA for the sale of these newspapers.

It also recommended that action be taken to recover the monies, but did not elaborate how this will be done.

But, a senior official at GINA confirmed this amount was expended, but explained that there could be no revenue, since the newspaper was being distributed free and without advertisements, while there were no advertisements during the radio and TV programmes.

The official explained that the newspaper and the non-commercial broadcasts were intended to inform the Diaspora about Guyana’s development.

Overseas trips

Examining expenses for travel overseas, the auditors noted that then Director of the GINA Neaz Subhan and then Press and Publicity Officer at the Office of the President (renamed the Ministry of the Presidency) Kwame McCoy overspent some $800,000 on a visit to Colombia for the launch of Express Series South Film Festival on March 17, 2014, in the City of Cartagena de

Indias.

The report highlighted that while the invitation stated that the host will provide accommodation, meals and internal transfers, GINA still expended $102,690 on accommodation overnight in Panama, $210,000 on per diem, $569,316 on airfare from Guyana to Colombia and $120,000 on “additional cash for trip.”

It is important to note that these expenses were mainly outside of Colombia since the organisers of the event provided in-country accommodation and travel, thus the airfare and other expenses to Colombia had to be borne by Guyana.

Among the other areas of breaches cited by the report, is GINA’s failure to follow Tender Board procedures for repairs to its building between 2011 and May 2015, costing some $16.3 million.

These contracts were single sourced from Rameshwar Sookdeo.

Management structure

It was highlighted that the agency was plagued with management deficiencies, and as such, the auditors have recommended that a proper management structure be established, with both financial and non-financial reporting requirements.

“We were unable to determine the management structure and reporting requirements of GINA. We understand that GINA was reporting to the Office of the President. No management reports were available for the period under review,” it stated.

It was also noted that the entity lacked proper credit control.

There were no recommendations for disciplinary action against any functionaries of the Agency. It is unclear if Subhan was asked to respond to any of the queries raised in the report; however, efforts to contact the former GINA Director was unsuccessful.

Bandit shot in buttocks after breaking into store

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Sophia, Georgetown, man was shot to his butt on Wednesday night after he broke into a Charlotte Street, Georgetown, business.

The injured man has been identified as Jermaine, 35, (only name given) of D

Field, Sophia.

According to reports, around 21:35h on Wednesday, Jermaine broke into Lisa General Store and during the invasion, he was confronted by the owner, who is a licensed firearm holder. The busi-

nessman discharge a round, hitting Jermaine in his buttocks.

The injured man has since been admitted at the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he is under police guard.

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FRIday, march 25, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

All outstanding GNCB loan files should be investigated – 2016 audit report

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n light of several discrepancies in many loan files including missing documents, recommendations have been made for financial audits to be conduct-

ed on all outstanding loans of the Guyana National Cooperative Bank (GNCB).

This is according to the bank’s Audit Report published on the Ministry of

Finance’s website Tuesday last. The report revealed that during the period from privatisation in 2003 to 2015, a total of 366 active loans were pursued by the bank. During the audit, all loans presented to the au-

ditors were evaluated and those above $10 million were thoroughly investigated.

Among discrepancies found during the investigations were missing documents and pages from loan files. The report said many

files were mildewed with water damages, indicating that the storage area of the files was flooded. “These damaged files made it extremely difficult to trace the completion of transactions…

Many files had missing collateral documents,” the auditors noted.

To this end, recommendations were made for “A financial audit be conducted on each loan file with a view to closure of some files. The findings and recommendations of the audit should be presented to the Board of Directors for approval and for submission to the Minister of Finance for Cabinet ratification, where necessary.”

Concerns were also raised over the fact that many loans were not securitised. “Reports in the files suggested that some collateral for loans were sold by the borrower without the knowledge of the bank. This may suggest that these collaterals were not registered with the court registry.

However, the bank regularly reviewed the Official Gazette to monitor borrowers’ activities. The bank filed objection to the sale of borrowers’ assets when published in the Gazette,” the report states.

It was also outlined that some loans were approved by a personal guarantee from the borrower and many of them were not recovered.

Additionally, the auditors highlighted that there was no written write-off procedure for bad loans; nevertheless, the agency followed the Government approved restructure formula. The bank later adopted an agreement with the Rice Producers Association (RPA) to restructure some of the nonperforming loans. This new agreement increased collections, the auditors reported.

A new formula for loan repayment provides some incentive to the borrowers with a reduction of 25 per cent of the outstanding principal and the waiver of three instalment payments. This proposal engineered the recovery of approximately $45 million in loan repayment.

Moreover, the auditors pointed out that there was no evidence that the Board of Directors met to evaluate and approve any loan write-off. “Initially, there were no pre-numbered receipt vouchers. We could not verify if all loan repayments were deposited into the bank account. In 2004, there is a variance of over $15 million between collections and bank deposits. With the arrival of Keith Burrowes, the receipt vouchers were prenumbered in 2005,” the auditors noted.

No oversight

The report further detailed that some loans were more aggressively sought after by the bank. These were the loans where the potential for recovery had a higher probability of collection than others.

In addition, the auditors reported that the institution was more self-managed with very little or no oversight from a Board of Directors.

“The investigation revealed that GNCB management made professional business decisions.

However, there was no evidence of the Board meeting.

No minutes are available…

With the absence of a functioning board, management made substantial investment decisions,” the report states.

According to the auditors, many of these investment opportunities earned significant interest for the bank, including interests of more than $150 million earned investments between 2005 and 2012.

Furthermore, the report states that no evidence of corporate malfeasance was found, except for the difference of $15 million in loan collection and bank deposits in 2004. Investments were also made to maximise the bank earnings but they were not approved by the Board.

Three investments amounting to $866 million are still outstanding, the auditors said, while adding that all efforts must be made to recover these funds.

In light of these matters highlighted, recommendations were also made for the transfer of the active loans portfolio with a principal balance of approximately $7.5 billion to a debt recovery unit under the Ministry of Finance, and also for the Ministry of Finance to absorb the existing staff in the new debt recovery unit, given that specialised training was done with the staff.

It was also suggested that the proposed new debt recovery agency of the Ministry of Finance be located in the entire GNCB Sports Club building. The building, which needs substantial general maintenance work, is currently being used by the Small Business Bureau and GNCB staff.

The auditors further recommended that the $368 million held by NICIL in trust for GNCB from the sale of GNCB-PHI assets, should be transferred to the Consolidated Fund without delay, and also that NICIL should be more aggressive in the sale of the other vested properties under its control.

It was also suggested that the bank aggressively pursue investment accounts to maximise its returns.

Recommendations were also made for the Ministry of Finance to initiate legal proceedings, under provisions of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act 2003, against the principals and Dr Ashni Singh, former Minister of Finance, to recover outstanding loan amounts. These include $581.6 million from Casique; $270 million from the Guyana Sugar Corporation and $15 million from RPA.

News

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friday, march 25, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Regional efforts needed to tackle TB – Dr Norton

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Chowtaal: A fragment of the Guyanese vase

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(The following introduced the HSS Chowtaal performance at State House on Purnima – full moon night – when the Holika was burnt.)

begin my introduction with an incident from 1992: the Nobel Prize lecture of our own Dereck Walcott. On a trip to the Caroni sugar belt with some visiting friends to sight TT’s national bird, the Scarlet Ibis, he chanced upon a village performance of RamLeela, the story of Lord Rama.

He confessed, “I had discovered that one of the greatest epics of the world was seasonally performed, not with that desperate resignation of preserving a culture, but with an openness of belief.”

“I had no idea what the epic story was, who its hero was, what enemies he fought, yet I had recently adapted the Odyssey for a theatre in England, presuming that the audience knew the trials of Odysseus, hero of another Asia Minor epic, while nobody in Trinidad knew any more than I did about Rama, Kali, Shiva, Vishnu, apart from the Indians, a phrase I use pervertedly because that is the kind of remark you can still hear in Trinidad: “apart from the Indians”.

“I was filtering the afternoon with evocations of a lost India, but why “evocations”? Why not “celebrations of a real presence”? Why should India be “lost” when none of these villagers ever really knew it, and why not “continuing”.

This evening you will be witnessing a performance of “Choutaal” by youths from the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh - “Hindus for Selfless Service”. They work outside of the Mandirs...in the communities. They will present another such “celebration of a real presence”...NOT an “evocation”.

Across Guyana, Chowtaal has been “continuing” for the past 40 nights, heralding tomorrow’s Holi. But who knows, “apart from the Indians”?

Chowtaal. “Tal” refers to the rhythm of the music Eachtal is characterised by a particular pattern and number of claps within a given time. Chowtaal means “four beats”.

It is performed in a very heavy, powerful manner so the Dholak is the preferred percussion instrument.

The Chowtaal is performed in the antiphonal, “call and response” mode, which is common in both India and Africa where songs are performed for every possible occasion.

The rising, falling rushed, vigorous and the quiet cadences will be punctuated with whistles, calls and challenges.

Brought from the Bhojpuri Belt in North India, where 90 per cent of the Indian Indentureds originated, this peasant art form can hardly be found there today. Yet it is flourishing among the youths in the Indian Diaspora in Guyana, TT, Fiji and North America. While most of the lyrics are about the exploits of Lord Rama or Lord Krishna, very early on, it was adapted to express sentiments on local conditions.

You will experience this innovation in the first piece, which is done in “Creole English”. Another innovation has to do with the performers: in India, Chowtaal was performed mostly by men – today it is mostly females who keep the flame lit.

I again quote Walcott: “Deprived of their original language, the captured and indentured tribes create their own, accreting and secreting fragments of an old, an epic vocabulary, from Asia and from Africa, but to an ancestral, an ecstatic rhythm in the blood that cannot be subdued by slavery or indenture.”

Referring to the various “fragments” of the several peoples of TT, Walcott mourned, “I am only one-eighth the writer I might have been had I contained all the fragmented languages of Trinidad.” Why should our cultural fragments be sequestered in ethnic enclaves and likewise limit us all?

My final quote from Walcott: “Break a vase, and the love that reassembles the fragments is stronger than that love which took its symmetry for granted when it was whole. The glue that fits the pieces is the sealing of its original shape. It is such a love that reassembles our African and Asiatic fragments, the cracked heirlooms whose restoration shows its white scars.”

Let our cultural policy – one that is truly multicultural – be the glue to bond our six fragments that lie like broken, separated shards. Then we will be firmly on our way to creating a “vase” called the “Guyanese nation”.

s the world observed World Tuberculosis Day (WTD) on Thursday, Public Health Minister Dr George Norton has underscored the importance of strengthening regional tuberculosis (TB) services.

He was at the time speaking at the commissioning ceremony for a new building for the West Demerara TB Chest Clinic and a refurbished TB StepDown Care Facility.

With the support of the Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) Administration, the West Demerara TB Chest Clinic acquired the new building while the TB Step-Down Care facility was refurbished with support from the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) Guyana. This inpatient facility has a capacity of 20 beds along with two isolation rooms and would be utilised for inpatient management, mainly for TB patients who are infectious, homeless or have complications.

The architectural layout included improved ventilation so as to decrease the transmission of the TB bacteria.

Infection control standards are adhered to in the design, with the necessary remodelling done to suit such a facility.

With this new building, clinics will now be held from Monday to Friday, as opposed to twice per month, which was the case previously.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Norton said that these efforts were undertaken with the aim of enhancing the TB services offered nationally. The Minister noted that the transformation of the Ministry of Public Health away from its central top-down governing role could only take place at the pace of the development of the regional and local capacities.

“For the time being, central level actors may only gradually be able to focus on their core functions and a lot is needed to maintain supervision at the regional level. There is a dire need to establish regional TB programmes and for them to take ownership of TB control activities in their respective regions. The process has started, but more needs to be done in terms of improving coordination and boosting communication with the key stakeholders,” the Minister highlighted.

According to Dr Norton, TB patients are being managed at sites within their respective regions, but he recognised

Junior Public Health Minister, Dr Karen Cummings and Programme Manager of the National Tuberculosis Programme, Dr Jeetendra Mohanlall cutting the ribbon at the ceremonial commissioning of the new West Demerara TB Clinic as Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton; Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud; Director of Regional Health Services, Dr Kay Shako and Regional Health Officer, Dr Shawn Bancroft look on

the need for more political commitment at the regional level and also dedicated personnel to perform TB related activities in order to improve accessibility and sustain services. He pointed out that with the influx of newly-trained medical doctors, some of whom were assigned to the hinterland regions on a longer stint of services, it creates an opportunity for more doctors to be involved in TB management. This, he added, will in turn increase accessibility to services nationwide.

The Public Health Minister outlined that while TB was on the decline in Guyana, there was no room for complacency. On this note, the Minister implores Guyanese to support the efforts of the National Tuberculosis Programme (NTP) towards reducing the effects of Tuberculosis. One of the most strategic mechanisms for combating this disease is to ensure that all citizens are educated about TB and are involved in this fight against TB. Moreover, Dr Norton noted that while it was the aim of his Ministry to provide improved health care services to those infected and affected by TB, it was even more beneficial to implement preventative measures where diseases such as TB were concerned.

The Minister further remarked that one of the health targets in the newly adopted Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that Guyana wished to achieve was ending the TB epidemic by 2030. To this end, a total budget of $139,716,000

has been allocated this year to combat the disease.

“Guyana is waging a strong battle against this public health threat, but this can only be successful with the involvement of all health care providers and the public at large. Taking cognisance of this, the Ministry of Public Health, Guyana joins the global community in the fight against Tuberculosis and we will be able to accomplish this year’s World TB Day theme of UNITE TO END TB!!! Together we will make it happen,” Dr Norton declared optimistically.

For generations, TB has manifested itself as a major public health threat. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 9.6 million persons fell ill with TB and 1.5 million died from this disease in 2014. Over 95 per cent of deaths related to TB occur in lowand middle-income countries and it is among the top five causes of death for women aged 15 to 44.

Persons infected with TB bacteria have a 10 per cent lifetime risk of falling ill with the TB disease. However, persons with compromised immune systems, such as people living with HIV, malnutrition or diabetes, or people who use tobacco, have a much higher risk of falling ill.

Children are also greatly affected by this disease, and in 2014, an estimated one million children became ill with TB resulting in a mortality rate of 140, 000 children.

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, march 25, 2016

Easter celebrations are here again

By Rohana Carryl and Shemuel Fanfair

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here are many Easter traditions in Guyanese society, with kite flying being the major highlight especially for the younger generation.

Usually in the weeks leading up to Easter Monday, an array of kites is seen soaring and diving in the skies especially along the sea walls.

For kite vendors, particularly along Camp Street, the weeks and even months prior to Easter are very hectic. They have to get a multitude of materials and find the time to design the hundreds or even thousands of kites to make their custom-

ers happy.

“I always had the ambition of owning my own cash,” were the sentiments of 37-year-old Trevor Smith, a veteran kite vendor. When this publication asked what prompted him to get into this trade, Smith explained that he started out making “nail pitchers” and “bamboo boats” in school, with his teachers being his only customers until he took up kite making as his career or as he termed it his “spirituality”.

Being in the business for over 16 years, Smith boasted to have made thousands of kites for large entities in Guyana, which distributed them to less fortunate children from different communities across the country.

The talented gentleman said that he wished this to continue. According to Smith, he has no complaints as it relates to the progression of his business. “Business

good, I don’t have no problem with business,” Smith stressed.

Meanwhile, Ryan Oselmo, who was first seen busy trying to attend to a very eager and excited little boy, posited that kite making was a 15-year tradition within his family which first started with his father.

Watching his dad assemble kites was a hobby for him until he attained the skills to craft his own and continued the tradition. The kitemaking process for Oselmo would usually start in August of the previous year, and it would take him approximately 45 minutes to create one of his many masterpieces. His kites vary in

terials – paper, string and cloth and even a four-yearold child can craft one.

Local kite vendor “Joy” is no stranger to the Easter kite traditions. She and her husband started off making and selling this very kite using greaseproof paper as one of the principal materials.

They have, however, evolved their kite making by employing modern methods of producing kites like the other vendors who were interviewed by this newspaper.

“Joy” and her spouse started their business some 24 years ago and she noted that there have been many setbacks as.

“This year look like it [sales] will pick up late…is a traditional something so

sizes and accordingly their prices, with the traditional bird kites being sold at a cheaper rate than the other types.

The Easter kite-flying season in Guyana is enjoyed by many, with the participation of even those who can’t afford one and would just make their own Caddy Ole Punch, which is probably the simplest of kites to make.

These simple kites are made from readily available ma-

we ... got to hang in there,” “Joy” stated.

It is quite safe to say that the art of making Kites has evolved. With the extended period of kite flying which seems to increase with each passing year, there is greater demand for better, longerlasting materials. We should take some time to show more appreciation for the actual work that goes into this trade and ensure that the traditions remain alive.

guyanatimesgy.com

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he long-anticipated Mr Guyana International Pageant is set and ready to take off with the Grand Coronation billed for April 24, 2016 at the National Cultural Centre. This

friDAY, march 25, 2016

year around, eight young men will be vying for the coveted title, which is currently held by reigning Mr Caribbean, Paul Charles.

The eight young men will be competing in several segments, in-

cluding fitness challenge and talent prior to the coronation night.

On that night, those scores will be added to those from the swimwear, evening wear, costume and intelligence segments.

The young men competing for the title are all in training and have indicated their readiness for the challenge. They are Sean Thompson, Javone Steven Vickerie, Paul Meusa, Stowell

Bentham, Kefa Smith, Satesh Jagdeo, Dexter Gardener and Lionel Rowe.

Tickets for the event will cost $2000 and $1500 and are available at the National Cultural Centre.

Meet the delegates:

Dexter Gardener

Javone Vickerie

Kefa Smith

Lionel Rowe

Paul Meusa

Satesh Jagdeo

Sean Thompson

Stowell Bentham

T

he much-anticipated Guyana Fashion Week (GFW) is having its glorious return to the national calendar of events in this, the auspicious year of our 50th Independence anniversary celebrations.

The GFW mandate would be formally honoured with a red carpet affair, under the auspices of the Telecommunications and Tourism Ministry, at the historical Colgrain House – as part of the country’s Golden Jubilee observances in May. The ethos of the GFW continues to be to serve as a vehicle to foster creative industries development and to promote youth empowerment initiatives.

Over the years, the GFW has facilitated the niche market expansion of the burgeoning fashion industry and its ancillary small enterprises’ development, both in the Caribbean and South America.

“We had a great response to the designers’ call and we’re looking forward to working with [Telecommunications and Tourism] Minister Cathy Hughes and her team to showcase the amazing fashion talent in Guyana,” GFW Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sonia

Noel said.

The Guyana fashion brand has grown considerably, with inroads made through the harnessing of the fashion talent under one umbrella festival, as well as creating a great networking space for collaborative creative industries’ outreach.

The GFW serves well to heighten standards and export-worthy products and services, which has resulted in the participation of Guyanese brands in regional and Diaspora showcases.

One such noteworthy achievement is one GFW Designers Portfolio participant Andy Cummings’s qualification as a Mission Catwalk finalist. He went on to claim the second runner-up spot in the regionallytelevised competition.

Models have also gained notable recognition from the GFW platform, including Anasha Dutchin, who went on to the Caribbean’s Next Top Model; Amanda King to Elite Model International Finale, as well as Isaiah Luther and Jamain Victor.

Auditions were held on March 19 and 20 at Water Chris, Quamina and Waterloo Streets, Georgetown.

The highly-anticipated red carpet affair for this year’s Guyana Fashion Week is carded for Friday, May 20.

For more information, please visit our Facebook Page: Guyana Fashion Week.

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guyanatimesgy.com

friday, march 25, 2016

De Hunter

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esidents of Parika/ Salem, East Bank Essequibo will be in for a treat come Easter Monday when the Parika/ Salem Sports Club hosts its annual Fun Day and Kite Flying Competition.

The event is billed for the Parika Ground.

As usual, prizes will be up for grabs for the smallest, biggest, most colourful, most creative and highest

Granny Ivelaw

kite, etc. There will also be special prizes for athletics, tug-o-war, and bun-eating contest winners. Those who believe that they can drink beers at a fast rate can participate in the beer-drinking contest. There will also be the ugly man and dance competitions. This is expected to be off the hook.

However, the event would not have been as grand without live perfor-

mances. This time around, three Trinidadian artistes will take to the stage and set it on fire – Soca Elvis, Reshma Ramlal and De Hunter who are all known for their hyped and energetic performances. Guyana’s own Granny Ivelaw will also grace the stage.

In addition, there will be fun activities for the kids including face painting, bouncy castle and oth-

Reshma Ramlal

Soca Elvis

er attractions. Music for the day will be provided by 71 Sound System and DJ Stephan.

Don’t miss this grand event. Tickets will be sold at the gate.

All set for Annual Lake Mainstay Car and Bike Show this weekend

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he Lake Mainstay Resort will come alive on Saturday evening with the seventh Annual Car and Bike Show that is expected to be sizzling hot. Plans for the event are well underway and from all indications, there will be a display of creativity and power.

So far, there are confirmed participation in at least 14 categories including Best Car; Best SUV/Bus; Best Bike (small); Best Bike (Super); Best Artwork for cars, bikes and SUVs and Best Audio in cars, SUVs and minibuses. The final category will see prizes given out to the Best Bicycle (open); Best Bicycle Jr (open) and Antique Bicycle. There will be over $1 million in cash and trophies up for grabs.

The past six Car and Bike Shows were well-received by thousands of Essequibians as well as other Guyanese, with excitement to the maximum.

Hence, the Resort anticipates great crowd support with additional vehicles, motorbikes and bicycles from across the country converging at the Resort’s beach for this massive and exciting event.

During the competition, music will be provided

by Pream’s Mega Sounds with the best deejays on the Essequibo Coast who are known for hyping a crowd.

There will also be wellstocked food courts and beverage bars. The children will not be excluded since there will be a children’s fun park with all the rides to ensure they have an enjoyable time at the resort.

The gates will be opened from 16:00h and the show commences at 18:00h. Admission is $1000 for adults and $500 for children under 10 years old.

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ll roads will lead to the Joe Vieira Park on Easter Monday for the third edition of Easter Fete featuring several local artistes and some of the best music systems around.

The event, which is being promoted by Westsiderz Entertainment, is expected be explosive with lots of fun for the entire family. One of the main attractions will be the return of Prince JP to the West Side.

Fresh off performing at the Guyana National Stadium on Wednesday, the artiste is ready to take the West Side by storm. He is expected to sing a few of his new hits, including “She Drives Me Crazy”. Known for his versatility, he will be performing several other Chutney and Soca hits.

Adding to the excitement will be the jugglers from Rambo X-Rated Sound such as DJ Blacky and Selector Andy. There will also be barbecue in abundance as well as well-stocked drinks and food bars. There will also be special prizes for the smallest and largest kites as well as the most creative and colourful. There will be lots of other giveaways.

The event is powered by Stag Beer, Sky Vodka, Bowie Taxi Service, Noel Barbershop, Westsiderz Furniture Store, Westsiderz Electronics, Obama Taxi Service, West Side Taxi Service, Sign Tech and GT Auto show. Tickets for the event will be available at the gate.

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news

friday, MARCH 25, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

APNU/AFC’s ministerial travelmania

Guyoil Forensic Audit Report

Govt advised to buy aircraft Managing Director abused authority fleet as costs soar B – breached procurement policy in awarding contracts to family members

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n light of the soaring charter costs, a senior government official has recommended that Guyana invest in purchasing its own fleet of aircraft to transport the President and other government officials.

This was confirmed

by Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman, who disclosed that the suggestion was made by Finance Ministry official, Tarachand Balgobind.

Speaking at post-Cabinet briefing on Thursday, the minister said Balgobind made the suggestion during the 2016 budgetary preparation talks due to the frequent travel of staffers from the Ministries of Natural Resources, Agriculture and Communities.

“He (Balgobind) said from a cost benefit analysis, it seemed best and in fact, he said he will investigate whether or not it made sense for us to own and maintain a fleet of aircraft because the amount that’s being spent on charters is high but these are necessary for us to be able to access the 10 regions,” Trotman noted.

However, the Natural Resources Minister pointed out that no steps have been taken by his administration to make such a purchase.

“Not to my knowledge, but

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman

all things are possible. As I said I can only deal with what takes place within the realms of Cabinet… nothing is before Cabinet but nothing, at the same time, is being ruled out because that suggestion did come from Mr Tarachand Balgobind himself,” he remarked.

Asked whether the recommendation was for domestic travel or both domestic and international, Trotman responded saying “for use”.

Moreover, the Minister opted not to make any personal pronouncement on the matter. He said, “I’m a servant of the government, if the government provides an aircraft for me to go to Aishalton, I take it. So it is not for me to find favour or disfavour with it. I got to do my job as any other ministers have to with theirs,” he

remarked.

At present, Guyana has no state-owned aircraft or airline, thus, government would rack up hefty bills when travelling locally and internationally.

Since the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC) assumption to office in May last year, concerns have been raised from time to time about the funding of the trips of ministers abroad and in many instances the new government has failed to properly inform the populace as to the scope and nature of the trips overseas which they often claim are either totally or partially funded by unknown private individuals.

In other democracies, the quantum of funding from private funding would have to be released to the public.

adrie Persaud allegedly abused his authority as the Managing Director of the Guyana Oil Company Limited (Guyoil).

This is according to the Forensic Audit Report for the period November 1, 2011 to May 31, 2015.

The report states that Persaud “abused his position and allowed for egregious acts of conflict of interest without any declaration to the Board of Directors or disclosure otherwise. Contracts were given to related parties or to parties without the Tender Board’s approval.”

On February 29, following a review of the report, Persaud was terminated by the Oil Company after it expressed that it could no longer have confidence in his ability to execute the functions of Managing Director honestly, objectively and efficiently.

The report further alleged that the then Managing Director colluded in the preparation and approval of contractual documents to effect payments, after works were done, to his nephew Avinash Persaud, who is an employee of Guyoil, as well as the awarding of a contract to his brother without abiding to the requisite tendering process.

“Undisclosed and ignored conflict of interests occurred for the period under review, whereby the Managing Director, Mr Badrie Persaud, awarded transportation contracts of $62 million over the review period to his brother, Indarjeet Persaud and a construction contract for $860,000 to his nephew, Avinash Persaud.

Aside from the initial sole sourcing of a contract to Mr Indarjeet Persaud, the brother of the Managing Director, no subsequent contracts were issued between GOCL [Guyana Oil Company Limited] and Indarjeet Persaud.

Mr Indarjeet Persaud continued to provide services to GOCL beyond the contract period,” the Report stated.

The Report further high-

Former Guyoil Managing Director Badrie Persaud

lighted the fact that the procurement process was poorly managed, citing that a number of local and overseas suppliers were not pre-qualified, and these suppliers were not supported with the requisite documented evaluation.

“The tender process was often abused as contracts were awarded based on single sourcing. No pre-qualification by public tendering and approval by GOCL Board of Directors was done or was it required of local and overseas suppliers for the period under review. Hence it could not be determined that these suppliers have the requisite resources, technical expertise or experience,” the Report explained.

According to the requirements, contracts with related parties should be disclosed and be subjected to Board approval before finalisation; however, the procurement process was poorly managed, which allowed for frequent management override of the process and breach of procurement controls by Persaud.

“The process of quote evaluations was not documented, since this was not a requirement for GOCL purchases of goods and services. This may have resulted in the procurement of goods and services at uncompetitive rates and from entities not in compliance with the

Guyana Revenue Authority and the National Insurance Scheme requirements,” the auditors reported.

Persaud reportedly flouted the Tender Board’s rules in bypassing the procurement department when rewarding these contracts, referencing one instance where purchases exceeding $90 million were made from Mr Manesh Seeram, an Information Technology supplier, and as such, the auditors recommended that Persaud face disciplinary action.

Additionally, it was reported that Persaud “during the forensic audit review period performed the Marketing Manager’s functions, which included pricing of products, approving dealers’ applications and contracts and requests for installation of equipment at fuel stations. It was likely that the MD [Managing Director] intended to conceal the conflict of interest and approve a gas station at Tushen, New Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo for his brother-inlaw Hansraj Persaud.”

The report also highlighted the fact that the Oil Company has been functioning without a Human Resources and Remuneration Sub-committee, which has led to inconsistent policies related to recruitment, remuneration and promotions.

“No records existed showing that a shortlisting process occurred or that applicants were interviewed regarding the hiring of the Managing Director’s nephew, Mr Avinash Persaud or that adherence to GOCL Human Resources recruitment procedures were followed,” the Forensic Report revealed.

It was further exposed that an individual named Leonard Khan was promoted to Castrol Brands Manager and to Aviation Services Manager, with a salary of $124,788 despite not meeting the job requirements on two occasions and without the positions being advertised.

UN celebrates Int’l Day of Remembrance of Slavery victims

I

n remembrance of millions of Africans forcibly removed from their families and homelands over hundreds of years, the United Nations (UN) observes the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

This March 25 annual observance is used to highlight what the organisation deems as “prevailing racism and prejudice” that exist today.

This year’s theme falls under the banner “Remember Slavery: Celebrating the Heritage and Culture of the African Diaspora and its Roots”. It was noted that “the dynamic culture and traditions of Africa continue to enrich life in the coun-

tries that were once involved in the Transatlantic slave trade.”

The UN posited that it is “imperative that we work together for equal opportunity, justice and sustainable development for people of African descent”. The United Nations noted that it has undertaken the ‘Remember Slavery Programmes’ in which there were outreaches to young and old alike to create awareness promote understanding and change attitudes.

It was explained that Africa’s influence and legacy are plain to see in the vibrant music, bold art, rich foods and inspiring literature that infuse modern culture. Further contributions

that the people of the African Diaspora have made to medicine, science, Government and general leadership in society were all pointed out.

“Tested to the limits of their spirit and endurance, slaves from Africa left their descendants a wide range of invaluable assets, including fortitude, courage, strength, tolerance, patience and compassion. On this day, let us renew our resolve to fight racism and celebrate the heritage of Africa that enhances societies around the world today,” the UN added.

Establish in 1945, among the United Nations many objectives is to promote peace and security, protect human rights and uphold international law.

20 NEWS

friDAY, march 25, 2016| guyanatimesGY.com

"Cheesy"’s bullet-ridden body Serial carjacker found in Le Repentir Cemetery jailed again

A

Kaneville, East Bank Demerara man was on Thursday morning found dead in the Le Repentir Cemetery with gunshot wounds to his body.

Steve “Cheesy” Mohamed, 26, of Kaneville, was discovered about 06:00h in the Cemetery by passersby who immediately alerted the Police. Mohamed was implicated in several armed robberies and was previously charged and convicted.

Police confirmed that there were three commitment warrants outstanding against Mohamed in matters where he was found guilty after ex-parte trials.

Two of the matters were for possession of firearm without licence and one for discharging a loaded firearm with the intent to murder a policeman.

He was sentenced to five

Steve Mohamed

years’ imprisonment on each charge which was supposed to be served concurrently.

Relatives of the now dead man were shocked at the gruesome murder claiming that after his release from prison some time ago, he would often call to check up on his mother and siblings.

At the family’s home on Thursday, his mother, Hilda

Moothoo, was inconsolable.

She could not recall the last time she saw her son alive, but noted that he only recently was released from prison.

His sister too stated that she could not remember the last time she saw her brother, but admitted he would normally call to enquire about the family members. She also stated that he was released from prison in 2015, but only recently he was sentenced “behind his back”.

She, however, claimed that she could not say if he had any issues with anyone since they had been not around him since his release. Nevertheless, she claimed that there was one particular individual who disliked her brother.

“He use to live with she… is she make he end up weh

he deh… he end up and get three shots in Friendship.

I was there with he when he get shoot… that was the same story when he get hold for the gun and ammunition, but they didn’t find anything on meh brother,” she alleged as she wept.

In December 2015, he was wanted for the murder of Quacy Thompson, 31, of Linden. He was accused of killing Thompson on July 15, 2014, at Mowasi Landing, Konawaruk, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

In addition, he was implicated in a series of robberies and the shooting of an occupant of a minibus a few months ago. His body is at the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home awaiting an autopsy, as Police continue their investigations. No arrests have been made.

Region 2 leaders to meet residents, stakeholders

A

s part of efforts to solicit and draft recommendations for budget 2017 from residents in Region Two (Pomeroon/ Supenaam), the administration will be having several face-the-community and key stakeholders meetings along the coast.

This was agreed at a meeting convened Tuesday last where regional officials addressed key issues affecting the Region.

According to Region Two Chairman, Devanand Ramdatt, all councillors and programme managers must be engaged and give full participation at all the meetings.

Speaking to regional officials he said that a schedule must be developed to target communities within Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), Anna Regina Town Council (ARTC) and areas in the Pomeroon River.

Ramdatt explained that residents from the various communities have the right to know what is in Budget 2016 for the region and how

Heads of Department at a Region Two meeting

nity also must be part of every project executed in their areas.

He stated that the meetings will take the form of consultations as the administration seeks to find out issues affecting residents.

On that note, Ramdatt said residents must be provided with the opportunity to make recommendations for budget 2017.

He also suggested farmers, the Essequibo Chambers and Commerce, youth and women’s groups

Regional Chairman Devanand Ramdatt and Regional Executive Officer Rupert Hopkinson

their community will benefit; as well as how they can contribute towards the supervision and monitoring process.

The Regional Chairman said there must be transparency and accountability, and members of the commu-

be part of the decision-making process.

All managers and RDC councillors attending the meeting unanimously agreed for the consultative process to begin. Regional Executive Officer Rupert Hopkinson was also in fa-

vour of the meetings involving the public. Deputy regional executive officer Sunil Singh said he supports the idea since residents will be able to recommend projects

they need for budget 2017.

Those meetings will commence shortly as the schedules are drafted for the various areas.

C

onvicted serial carjacker Mike Tyson, 25, who is currently serving a 58-month jail sentence for robbing a taxi driver of his car was on Thursday jailed again for 18 months on a similar offence when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Tyson of Lot 567 Conciliation Drive, Tucville, Georgetown, was found guilty by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for the charge which read that on August 10, 2015 at McDoom, Georgetown, he robbed Lawrence Singh at gunpoint of his Spacio car valued at $2 million, a cell phone and $10,000 cash.

During his testimony, Singh had told the court that on the day in question he had picked up Tyson from La Grange, West Bank Demerara and dropped him off at McDoom.

Singh had recalled that Tyson disembarked at the McDoom gas station and another man suspected to be his accomplice, entered the car and pointed a gun at him demanding that he continue to drive.

Singh said he ran out of the vehicle and begged for his life with the gunman pursuing him. According to, Singh persons came to his assistance and the gunman eventually escaped. Tyson, he related, jumped into his vehicle and sped away.

The taxi driver recounted that he alerted the police before boarding a taxi to chase after the carjacker. Police chased after the Tyson and he eventually crashed the stolen vehicle at David Street, Kitty, Georgetown.

Police Prosecutor Neville

Mike Tyson

Jeffers called four witnesses to testify in the matter.

On February 29, City Magistrate Judy Latchman jailed Tyson for 58 months after finding him guilty of robbing another taxi driver.

Tyson robbed Anish Veersammy of one Toyota Premio car valued at $3.8 million, two speakers, and $10,000 cash, among other items. That robbery occurred on July 3, 2015 at Meadow Bank, Georgetown.

Tyson is also being accused of committing another robbery. It is alleged that on July 1, at Durban Backlands, Tyson in possession of an unlicensed firearm robbed Eson Grimes of a car valued, one cell phone, one driver’s licence and cash, among other items, totalling $3.2 million. This matter is still engaging the attention of the courts.

He had made his first court appearance in April 17, 2015 and pleaded not guilty to the allegations.

21

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ICC T20 World Cup…

friDAY, march 25, 2016

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West Indies’ chance to seal semi berth I

t has been talked up as the fixture that will decide Group 1, making the match-up between South Africa and West Indies perhaps the most intriguing of the group so far.

West Indies hold the aces after two wins from their opening two matches.

A third will see them take control of the group and set themselves up to top it, with only Afghanistan left to play. It will also guarantee them a semi-final berth.

South Africa remain far away from such safety. Defeat to England means that even after beating Afghanistan, they still have to deal with the two most recent champions if they are to ensure advancement. On paper, South Africa should not be too anxious of the West Indian challenge, but we all know the saying about where sport is actually played.

In sharp focus will be the contrasting approaches of these two sides. Wellplanned South Africa take on carefree West Indies, perhaps the last people they want to see when under pressure - it means South Africa have to think of what they can expect and what they can’t from a West Indies side that thrives on the spontaneous. Already, one of South Africa’s strategies - to use

JP Duminy to bowl more has been spoiled because Duminy is injured. West Indies don’t even have that worry after Chris Gayle’s injury scare passed.

For both sides, this may be their toughest test before the knockouts. As such, whoever wins this may become favourite for the title.

In the spotlight With spin set to take centre-stage Imran Tahir and Samuel Badree could be game-changers, albeit in different ways. Badree has opened the bowling against England and Sri Lanka, against whom he was both container and destroyer-in-chief, while Tahir tends to be held back for when the fielding restrictions are lifted. Both times, he has been successful in pulling back opposition from fast starts but they may not get off to those if he is used earlier on.

Should South Africa be pondering any experimentation in the PowerPlay, then Nagpur will be the venue and West Indies the team to do it against.

Unlike Mumbai, where South Africa conceded 89 and then 64 against England and Afghanistan respectively, things will slow down at VCA and West Indies already seem to like it that way. They’ve scored 55 and 39 in their

previous two PowerPlays but, importantly, have only lost one wicket in each to ensure they stick to a more traditional approach of keeping firepower for the end.

Team news JP Duminy’s injury-enforced absence means the balance of South Africa’s side will be affected. They will have to bring in a batsman to replace Duminy in the middle-order with Rilee Rossouw and Farhaan Behardien competing for the spot, but they will also need to make room for an extra spinner. Aaron Phangiso should make his first international appearance in five months, at the expense of either Chris Morris or David Wiese.

Kagiso Rabada will have to lead the attack if Dale Steyn continues to sit out.

South Africa: 1 Quinton de Kock (wk), 2 Hashim Amla, 3 Faf du Plessis (capt), 4 AB de Villiers, 5 Rilee Rossouw/Farhaan Behardien 6 David Miller, 7 David Wiese/Chris Morris, 8 Kyle Abbott 9 Kagiso Rabada, 10 Aaron Phangiso 11 Imran Tahir Chris Gayle has been declared fit to face South Africa after tweaking his hamstring in the Sri Lanka match, which should see West Indies go in with the same XI as they used for that game. (Cricinfo)

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Given the opportunity to open the batting with Charlotte Edwards, Beaumont has been backed by the coach, Mark Robinson, who admitted he was bemused by the contrast between her poor T20I record - she averaged 8.83 going into this tournament - and her ball-striking in practice. Having made her debut in the format back in November 2009, she has never quite been able to nail down a starting spot.

And when you look a little closer, you can see why: ridiculously, by the time she had played her 20th innings, Beaumont had batted in every position apart from No. 4 and No. 10.

Here, in her 25th innings, she passed 30 for the first time, showcasing what Robinson saw. She dealt in boundaries, including hitting her and England’s second six of the tournament - a crisp pick-up over midwicket as Dottin darted

one in on leg stump. It is worth noting England did not clear the ropes at all in their previous World T20 campaign. With Edwards moving along nicely at the other end, the pair brought up England’s first 50-plus opening partnership since April 2014. Up until that point, the team had played a perfectly judged game.

The pitch had a bit of pace in it but still gripped, meaning that while West Indies’ top order could hit through the ball, Anya Shrubsole, Jenny Gunn and Grundy were able to reel them in with a bit of finesse. The Powerplay typified this: 34 were scored off the opening six overs, yet two of them were maidens.

Shaquana Quintyne, West Indies’ No. 3, got off to a brisk start with 22 off her first 14 balls, but her next 14 produced just seven more before Sciver got her to find Gunn at longon. Stafanie Taylor and

From page 23

Dottin then decided to take the innings deep and reassess. But, having done the donkey work, their partnership ended at 52, with West Indies managing to score just 12 runs off the final three overs.

An indication of just how confounding England’s brain fade was came in the figures of part-timer Afy Fletcher, who took 3 for 12 off her four overs, having only taken three wickets in her previous nine T20Is. It was only when Sciver was joined by Katherine Brunt that the right approach was found: the risky shots were packed away, singles were picked up and the arrears cut down slowly and surely.

It was a far from convincing performance. But England can argue that they have not played anywhere near their best and yet still hold a 100% record after three matches. (Cricinfo)

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

friDAY, march 25, 2016

GDA launches international domino tournament

By Treiston Joseph

T

he Georgetown Domino Association (GDA) will host the second edition of their International Domino Tournament scheduled for April 1-4 at 1222-23Gauling Place, South Ruimveldt.

At the Press Conference on Thursday, PRO of the GDA

Basil Bradshaw highlighted that the event will bring teams from various countries together.

Nevertheless, with the hefty cost attached to airfares at the moment a number of teams such an Antigua will be unable to make the tip to Guyana for the tournament.

However, over 60 teams

are schedule to participate with Barbados confirming four teams for the tournament.

Gregory Bledman who is a representative from Barbados as well as from the World Council Domino Association noted that the tournament is blessed by the world body.

“There are not many tournaments like these and at the

World Council level we would be happy to see more tournaments like this, the cost to travel is a major hindrance and an issue we hopefully can address in the future because we would like to countries coming to this tournament,” Bledman noted.

President of the GDA, Faye Joseph was grateful for the support of the tournament and

highlighted her overall vision for the sport of domino.

“I’m asking the private and public entities to come on board and see what domino is all about… I would like to see it (domino) go to the Olympic level and I will work with other countries and trust me we will get there,” Joseph assured.

The tournament will see

each team playing four round before the final nine team play a sudden death two out one in round for the championship.

The winning team will receive US $5,000 while second, third and fourth will pocket US $2,500, US $1,500 and US $1,000 respectively.

Entrance fee for each team will be US $200.

guyanatimesGY.com

friDAY, march 25, 2016

NSC, Archery Guyana shoot off Indoor Target Archery Competition

The male and female winners pose with Director of Sport Christopher Jones after the event

A

s a part of the Guyana’s 50th Independence activities, the Guyana Sport Shooting Federation (GSSF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) once again successfully collaborated on March 19 to host an indoor archery event at the national Gymnasium.

The indoor target archery competition was held under the strict rules of World Archery and monitored by

Chief Judge Peter Hugh who was assisted by Head Scorer Ricardo DeAbreu.

The Competition attracted spectators and saw eight archers in both the men’s and ladies categories Recurve Division, vying for the top three spots.

At the end of two rounds comprising four ends each, the winners were declared as follows: Men’s Category first place; Nicholas Hing (140 points), second place

ICC Women’s T20 World Cup…

Windies women fall in thriller F or the second time in the space of three days, England turned a routine canter into a tense trudge through error-infested swampland.

Despite a brisk start to their chase of West Indies’ 108 - with 12 overs to go, they required 50 runs and had all ten wickets in hand - it was a bye off the final ball that snatched victory from the jaws of defeat.

With two legitimate balls remaining, Rebecca Grundy, England’s No. 11 in position as well as ability - came to the crease with three runs needed.

A wide and then a dab to point gave the more accomplished Natalie Sciver, batting on 19, the strike. With one run needed, she missed a delivery outside off stump from Deandra Dottin and West Indies’ wicketkeeper Merissa Aguilleira, who had adopted a closer position to the stumps without standing all the way up, ran forward before flicking the ball towards them.

But her throw went wide, Grundy ran through the crease and England had escaped. Had Aguillera

continued her run and removed bails in the manner of MS Dhoni in an identical situation in India’s game against Bangladesh on Wednesday, the game would have been tied.

Instead, England are on the brink of the semi-finals.

Crucially, this match was not broadcast on television, which meant there were no cameras at the ground, including at square leg. As a result, there was no third umpire. When you consider that Charlotte Edwards survived a sharp stumping attempt early on and an appeal to have Lydia Greenway run out at the non-striker’s end off a straight drive from Sciver was turned down, it could have been all very different.

Similarly to the match against India, it was the wicket of Tammy Beaumont that started the collapse.

Then, it was 5 for 29 from eight overs - here, 6 for 24 off 39 balls was the almost irreparable damage. But it was again Beaumont’s runs that proved to be the difference.

Turn to page 21

Michael Abrams (115 points), third place Ryan McKinnon (104 points).

In the women’s category first place went to Sarah Piggott (81 points), second place; Narda Mohamed (20 points) and third place Vidushi Persaud (16 points).

Director of Sport, Christopher Jones presented the trophies to the winners and delivered some brief remarks expressing his continued commitment to continuing working with the Federation.

In her closing remarks, President of the Federation, Vidushi Persaud, thanked the members for participating and the Director of Sport for his support. She went on to reiterate the need for continuous practice and training so that this Olympic sport can continue to be developed.

23

Ramlakan spearheads ECCCC to victory

Vishwanauth Ramlakan

E

ast Coast Committee Cricket Club (ECCCC) defeated Calcutta SC by 200 runs in their fourth round match of the East Coast Cricket Committee/SPR Enterprise 40 overs cricket competition at Calcutta Mahaicony over the weekend.

Led by an entertain-

ing 114 from under-19 wicketkeeper batsman Vishwanauth Ramlakan, ECCCC amassed 305 for 6 wickets in 40 overs after taking first strike.

Other useful contibutions came from I.Hassan 79, and Chandrabhan Seemangal 44 not out. Ramlakan hit 16 boundaries in his innings, while Hassan entertained with four boundaries and four maximums. R.Gransaul took 2 wickets for 46 from seven overs for Calcutta SC. In reply Calcutta SC were bowled out for 105 in the 18th over. Left arm seamer Gavin Moriah continued his good form with three wickets for 38 runs while Matthew Shivtahal had two for 31 runs.e ECCCC remains unbeaten in the competition and will play Golden Achievers of Golden Grove in their next match.

friDAY, march 25, 2016

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

ICC T20 World Cup…

West Indies’ chance to seal semi berth Pg 21

West Indies will aim to show their superiority with a win against South Africa today

GDA launches international domino tournament Windies

ICC Women’s T20 World Cup…

Pg 22

Pg 21

women fall in thriller

All the executives of the GDA pose for a photo with the winning trophies on Thursday

Shaquana Quintyne’s overcome with emotion as her 3 for 19 was in vain (Getty Images)

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