Guyana Times Daily - June 12, 2015

Success Elementary student tops NGSA exams

Reanna McCurchin

Bhedesh Persaud

Isabella Hussain

Solomon Cherai

Afeefah London

Shania Eastman

thursday, june 11, 2015 |

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, June 12 – 14:00h-15:30h and Saturday, June 13 – 14:30h-16:00h

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, June 12 – 13:05h-14:35h and Saturday, June 13 – 14:05h-15:35h

FERRY SCHEDULE

Ferries will be departing Parika and Supenaam stelling at 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h daily.

WEATHER TODAY

Thunderstorms can be expected to prevail throughout the day and into the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 27 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly between 3.57 metres and 4.91 metres per second.

High Tide: 00:39h and 13:12h reaching maximum heights of 2.46 metres and 2.41 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 06:42h and 19:05h reaching minimum heights of 0.76 metre and 0.78 metre respectively.

Success Elementary student tops NGSA exams

− Education Ministry disappointed with overall results

or the second consecutive year, a male student has topped the country at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) examination. A 12-year-old Success Elementary student has out done 15,224 of his peers at this year’s NGSA, to cop the

spot as the country’s top

Success Elementary, a private institution, is the

examination, securing the country’s first and second spot. In addition, another 22 students from the school gained placements in the country’s top 100.

The other top performers were mostly from Region Four and Georgetown areas. Guyana Times caught up with some of the top performers to get their reactions. Top student Solomon Cherai could not contain his excitement upon hearing the news. He told media opera-

tives that he knew he would have done well but the feeling of experiencing such a great achievement is overwhelming.

“We were watching the broadcast on the television and when I heard my name, I tried to be calm but I couldn’t help it. I was about to cry but I had to keep it in,” he shyly related. According to the lad, he had a very strict study schedule while preparing for the exams. With desires of becoming a mechanical engineer, the young man assured that he intends to continue stud-

ying while at the same time relaxing after all his hard work.

Cherai added that “I gave up television in order to gain a spot a Queens College. I studied late at nights because I couldn’t wake up in the morning to study”.

The beaming young man thanked God, his family and

his teachers for his success. Also speaking with this newspaper, the mother of the 11-year-old, Indera Cherai, stated that they were overjoyed when they heard the news. “We were at home and all of us gathered in front of the television to look at the press conference. When I heard his name, I jumped up and I was crying, tears of joy,” the elated

She further stated that while

woman related.

she rejoiced upon

hearing the news, her son’s performance does not come as a surprise. Mrs Cherai said that it was well anticipated and expected.

Top Student Solomon CheraiShania Eastman

Celine Farinha Shreya Persaud

Isabella Hussain

Afeefah London

Travis Isaacs

Bhedesh Persaud

Timur Singh

Reanna McCurchin

Editor: Nigel Williams

Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Reality sets in

There is a rural Guyanese saying which posits that "moutar is not guitar". Meaning, for those not au fait with the bucolic phraseology, that it is easy to make promises to do things, but another matter to actually do them.

The new government is discovering this hard truth as it settles into the business of actually running the country. When parties are in the Opposition they have no concrete achievement to which they can point: all they can do is to unfurl plans and make promises to achieve the same.

The incumbent, on the other hand, has to defend the missteps that will inevitable occur in the actual messy business of governance.

Reality is now already settling in and it is important that the new government takes time to actually explain why there is a "slip between the cup and the lip" with their campaign promises - especially the ones supposed to be achieved in the "first 100 days".

If they do not, they risk making their own supporters join the 202,000 persons who did not vote for them - at least in cynicism about the "promises of politicians".

We can illustrate the point with a few examples that have already been raised in the media, by starting with the following promise which was number 2 on the list of 21:

"Significant salary increases for government workers, including nurses, teachers in primary, secondary and tertiary education; security personnel; and civil servants on the traditional payroll."

When the promise was made, it was pointed out by several commentators, including one in this space, that such a promise would lead to increased inflation if it were not tied to productivity increases by the workers. The "gain" would be illusory since it would be wiped out by the higher inflation.

But there was another fly in the ointment: since the targeted workers were not in the direct "productive sector", their productivity increases would have to be directly related to increased output in the real economy, which none of the "100 day promises" addressed.

It was a case of putting the cart before the horse. The then Opposition had access to a host of economists who could have warned them of the impracticality of their promise. Why then did they go ahead and put it down in "black and white"?

The short answer, of course, is that they wanted the votes of the target constituency and they were willing to take the risk in not fulfilling the promise.

Since the said constituency was from one that had traditionally been considered "safe" and would not easily decamp, the then Opposition would have felt that the risk was not too high.

And so it was, within a week of being appointed, the new Minister of Finance could say that the increase in salaries would be "moderate" rather than "significant" and that it would have to be tied to "productivity increases".

The APNU/AFC government has also backed off its promise #3 on VAT: "Immediately implement a phased reduction of VAT and the removal of VAT from food and other essential items."

The Finance Minister, who is the man in the middle, had to now admit that since most of the items identified for "VAT elimination" we're already given that status by the PPPC administration, there would be a very short list forthcoming. And even with that list, all that could be done in 100 days would be to establish a committee to examine the issue.

Most Berbicians, are waiting to learn when the # 1 promise: "Reduction in the Berbice Bridge toll" will be implemented. On the other hand, World Bank figures show that Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) provide funding for most infrastructure in developing countries.

Since the Berbice Bridge was build utilizing this mechanism, it will be interesting to see whether the government will signal they are willing to unilaterally abrogate PPPs by reducing tolls.

The real PPP/C economic scorecard

Dear Editor, It is very normal in any change of administration for major criticism and “political bashing” to take place. It is no different in the Granger Administration of 2015.

Daily, we find officials pronouncing they either found money in the treasury or they have no money. They seem unsure which one to use on any given day.

Their supporters wait for these inconsistent statements in order to rationalize to themselves that all is good even though many of their elections promises were all meant to be gimmicks.

The same trade unions that called for the PPP/C to give 30 per cent increases to public servants versus 8-10 per cent seemed to have lost their voices after elections, somewhat afraid to speak out.

They are now quiet on VAT reduction promises and so many others need to review the great inheritance by APNU-AFC.

Guyana has been on a growth pattern for a long time with yearly 4-5 per cent GDP growth. In less than a few weeks of the new administration, they claimed the treasury is broke, there is no money to pay rice farmers, and billions have disappeared.

One has to wonder how come Guyana has survived all these years if one is to believe

these ridiculous statements. I believe it demonstrates incompetence.

The following key indicators are instructive, as at the date the PPP/C left office:

- Positive real growth in GDP every year from 2006 to 2014 at an average of more than 4.5 per cent per annum. At nine years, the longest period of uninterrupted growth in the history of independent Guyana.

- GDP at current market prices of US$3.1 billion in 2014, compared with US$1.4 billion in 2006, indicating that the economy has more than doubled in size during that period.

Gross international reserves at the Bank of Guyana of US$665.6 million (equivalent to 3.6 months of import cover) at end 2014, compared with US$251.4 million at the end of 2005.

- Total public debt of US$1.8 billion at end 2014, resulting in a debt to GDP ratio of 56.9 percent in 2014, compared with 97.3 percent in 2006.

- Within total public debt, external debt of US$1.2 billion at end 2014, resulting in an external debt to GDP ratio of 39.5 per cent in 2014 compared with 71.8 percent of GDP) in 2006.

- Total assets of $421.8 billion at the commercial banks at end 2014, compared with

$162.7 billion at end 2005.

- Total credit of $202 billion by the banking system to the private sector, compared with $52.4 billion at end 2005.

G$-US$ exchange rate of 206.5 at end 2014, compared with 200.25 at end 2005.

- Weighted average commercial bank lending rate of 10.86 percent at end 2014, compared with 13.5 in 2005.

- Over US$500 million more in concessional resources secured to finance development projects, including:

* US$130 million from China Exim Bank to construct a new international airport.

* US$66.2 million from IADB to fund a road network upgrade and expansion project.

* US$64.6 million from IADB and EU to fund a power utility upgrade programme.

* US$50 million from India Exim Bank to fund the East Coast to East Bank bypass road.

* US$34.4 million from the CDB to fund the West Coast Demerara highway upgrade project.

* US$31.7 million from IADB and EU to fund a water and sanitation infrastructure improvement project.

* US$15 million from IADB for a new citizen security project.

* US$12 million from the World Bank for a flood risk management project..

* US$10 million from the World Bank for a new secondary education improvement project.

* US$10 million from the World Bank for the UG science and technology support project.

* US$7.5 million from the CDB to fund a sugar industry mechanisation project.

The PPP/C has encouraged significant large scale foreign direct investment into Guyana, setting the stage for rapid growth going forward, including:

* Major oil and gas exploration activities at an advanced stage including Exxon/ Esso, Repsol and CGX

* Major gold mines about to commence production, including Guyana Goldfields Limited/AGM, ETK/ Sandsprings and Troy Troy Resources

All of these developments provide ample testimony to the excellent stewardship of the Guyanese economy discharged by the PPP/C government, and the strong position of the economy as the PPP/C demits office.

It is easy to say one is broke, when in fact the lack of understanding what to do to manage a growing economy and continue to create revenues is more of what we are witnessing.

Dr Peter R Ramsaroop

Aggrieved that Kaieteur News reported my behaviour as attempted assault

Dear Editor,

With regard to the subject of this mail, please allow me the space to offer a clarification of my behaviour, which was erroneously reported in the Kaieteur as: “Winner, Barrington had attempted to assault the second placed finisher, Thomas following the race.”

I categorically state that I never attempted to assault Mr Thomas. Here are some facts:

1. During the 800-metre

race in which Thomas and I were competitors, I believe Thomas attempted to mash the heel of my boots with his.

2. At the conclusion of the race, I approached Mr Thomas and asked him not to try doing that ever again, in any future meet in which we happen to compete together.

While speaking to Thomas I gesticulated, though, never in a threatening manner. Immediately after I spoke to Thomas he shoved me. I

swung at him defensively. I missed. The coaches intervened and ended the matter there and then.

I have been on the athletics circuit for quite a number of years, and competed at nationals on a few occasions. My behaviour on and off the field has always been within the bounds of decency and respect – respect for my coaches, team members and competing athletes.

And so it is, I write to rep-

resent honestly, the occurrence of that day. In retrospect, my gesticulations may have been problematic. Yet, under the circumstances, I do not believe that it warranted an actual assault of my person by Mr Thomas. I am therefore aggrieved that the Kaieteur News has reported my behaviour as an attempted assault, since that never occurred.

Devaun Barrington

A cormorant fisherman at sunset in Xingping in China’s Guanxi region (National Geographic)

Rickey Singh should offer his opinion on appointment of Chancellor, CJ

Dear Editor,

I read with interest the comment made by veteran Caribbean journalist, Guyanese born Ricky Singh, in which he praised the David Granger/Moses Nagamootoo administration for appointing a non-political person in Dr Barton Scotland as Speaker of the National Assembly.

In the article, under the headline, “Challenges for the new government - pluses and minuses”, he made reference to the non-confirmation of Chancellor of the Judiciary and Chief Justice (CJ) Carl Singh and Ian Chang, although they have

been acting for more than a dozen years.

He stated that because of ethnicity, class, party politics and religion they were not confirmed because the opposition leaders three of them, Desmond Hoyte, Robert Corbin and now David Granger failed to give support.

In the same breath, Ricky pointed out that the new President Granger "having sorted out his first post-elections cabinet, chose to engage in a few initial "consultations", among them, crucially, with the Private Sector Commission (PSC).

It is not clear what the

top Caribbean journalist meant by the last statement. He should know that President Granger already disclosed that these two top and important positions should be advertised in the region, inviting interested and qualified persons to apply.

As an experienced regional writer who received an honorary doctorate from the University of the West Indies for his outstanding contribution to the region, he should offer an opinion, but he chose not to take that route.

Oscar Ramjeet

PPP/C supporters need to have a backbone

Dear Editor,

I am writing to express my disappointment in the lack of support to the PPP/C by its supporters whom came out in droves during the campaign rallies, but have now given up out of fear, or just do not care anymore. I am asking that the people go out there and support the PPP/C on their quest for recount and show that you are not weak. Your protest should be peaceful and nonviolent but your voice should be heard.

Take an example of the newly “rigged” government

During

Dear Editor,

and their supporters’ attitude of “united we stand” regardless of how corrupt we are. The attitude of “it’s a-be time” shows little respect for PPP/C supporters. Plus there has been the escalation of crime since the new government took power, as well as dismissals in all governmental departments and the witch hunting of PPP/C Ministers to recoup allegedly stolen government assets. Do you want your country to be run by a dictator or do you want a balance and stable Guyana? Go out there and support your par-

ty. Do not believe the propaganda that the PPP/C are thieves and corrupt. Until all of this can be proven, it is all hearsay.

Again, do not let your beloved country be destroyed by a rogue coalition that is hell bent on destroying all the PPP/C has built in the last 23 years. No politician is perfect, so do not jump from the frying pan into the fire and get burnt.

Go out and show your support for the PPP/C and stand united with them in their protest.

I Sookdeo

The Guyana, Venezuela border controversy

Dear Editor,

Before I go into our discussion today, I must state that I as a Guyanese unequivocally stand with the Guyanese people in rejecting Venezuela's claim to any or part of territory belonging to a state called Guyana.

Without any question it is incontrovertibly clear that Venezuela has no claims to the territory known as Guyana. Having said that it is my binding duty to bring to you certain factual evidence on the border issue.

So how did we get here. The border issue dates way back into colonial times when Europe came to our shores and took possession of our land. They apportioned territories based on the military might of the land grabbers of the day.

Two of the colonizers faced off in these parts, namely Spain representing Venezuela, and Britain in Guyana. The boundaries of these two nations was settled in 1898 by international arbitration, so there is no illegality or ambiguity in the boundary zone between these two countries. That was settled way back then.

However, doubts and claims of being cheated were made by Venezuela from time to time – a no-

table example is in the person of Mallet Prevost. He proposed to show evidence that fraud was committed by Britain when the 1898 award was drawn up. That claim was scrutinized and found to be spurious and in due course discarded.

However, Burnham signed an accord reopening discussions on the GuyanaVenezuela border issue. I am sure Venezuela is going to use this "reopening of the border issue" that Burnham signed on to as a launch pad for his most recent claims whenever discussions convene.

For a President that the PNC considers "wise", this was the most outrageous move ever. With the reopening of negotiations, we now have a situation of the bigger more aggressive state about to hold us ransom. To this day some are still asking the question why? Why did he do it?

Let me hasten to give you the answer, he was trying to hide the plight of the failed state called Guyana. This country by that time had chalked up an external debt way above our income generating export earnings. Guyana was inundated with lines and austerity measures were present everywhere. This was his reason. The PPP/C in their

my stewardship every effort was been made to keep

Let me from the outset state the statements circulating alleging financial impropriety on my part have no basis in fact. It is unfortunate the Region has returned to an era where those who disagree find being disagreeable an appropriate conflict resolution tool.

In the three years as APNU-elect Regional Chairman and a member of the PNCR I have been accused of receiving millions of dollars from the PPP/C and other sources.

I can say to you this much, my people: With very little resources given to me as Campaign Manager, Region 10 had the best showing for the coalition at the May 11 Elections in votes, turnout and reducing the PPP/ numbers.

The people of Region 10 have stood tall and have been a formidable force against those who threaten our tranquility and sought to trample our rights. Despite our political diversity on regional matters we have operated as one Region.

An understanding of how the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) functions would reveal the administrative line of authority is the Regional Executive

Officer, who is the RDC’s chief financial officer and administrator of all executive duties.

The Regional Chairman is the political head and presides over the Council in developing policies, deliberating on the execution of the programmes and the management of the region. The Regional Chairman represents the Region’s interests at the national level such as the Drainage and Irrigation Board.

During my stewardship every effort has been made to keep government honest and accessible to the people.

This was done through walk-about, community meetings, an open-door communication policy, regional media programmes and having the media present at RDC’s meetings. The RDC was manned by councillors from the PPP/C, AFC and APNU. These meetings were robust and none was spared scrutiny and accountability, including me.

On the Rebuild Our Future Programme (ROFP) this was conceptualised out of the cooperative spirit exhibited during our 2012 struggle and the need to keep it alive in furtherance of the Region’s development. This programme includes

the burial of three Lindeners on August 1, 2012 and some support for their families, the rebuilding of the One Mile Primary School, the establishment of the Linden Martyrs Monument Park, and the establishment of the television station.

The ROFP has a Working Committee and is administered outside of the day-today administration of the Region which is independent of this management and is with the participation of stakeholders.

The money garnered for this programme is accounted for by professional Accountant of Wilson’s Consulting Service (Linden), deposited at Citizens Bank and audited by D Bahadur and Co Chartered Accountants (Georgetown). This was at the insistence of the Council which was made up Councillors of all three of the political parties.

There is no need to assassinate my character to justify to Guyana and the people of Region 10 the purported exclusion of my name from the Regional List. I have served the people of this Region with pride, integrity and humility and in this Information Age my record is easily verifiable. I remain humbled and

grateful for the opportunity presented to serve the people. Though some may think I am extinguishable, Region 10 and those who desire a politics of development and

not a politics of destruction and tear down, rest assure you will hear from and see Sharma Solomon.

I am Guyanese and will continue to play a positive

time of crisis with the Surinamese did fall on the wisdom of Sir Shridath Ramphal. He addressed this matter admirably and at the highest level brought closure to this near century long territorial issue. It is now the PNC's turn at this. Let us see how they will deal with it. Are they going to play party politics with something of such great national importance? Or are they going to entrust negotiations in the hands of the most competent person? Our existence and sovereignty is at stake here.

At the present moment, two names readily comes to mind and they are Professor James Rose and Professor Mary Noel Menezes. Both individuals are eminently qualified to handle this matter.

The first name mentioned is closely associated with the PPP/C party and judging from the present mode of non-inclusion of "ex-PPP/C" personnel I do not think they are going to go for him.

In any case, one of these two scholars should be chosen to lead a high level team to the United Nations to get a final settlement to this vexing issue of territorial claim.

Neil Adams

Govt honest

role in the development of our people and this dear land.

Sharma Solomon

Summer is rapidly approaching and everyone wants to trim some fat off before they hit the lakes and beaches in beautiful Guyana. Our hectic lifestyle and workloads do not let us live in a healthy way. The craving for junk food and stress filled environment gives us an unhealthy body.

The area around the waist and thighs is usually flabby. The risk of diseases and ill health increases with the fat around these areas. A fitness routine and a good diet will help to reduce these risks.

Since some people prefer not to sweat too much while exercising, yoga is the best option. By adopting the methods of yoga one can reduce weight, control the body and soul.

Along with these benefits, one can also experience mental peace.

Losing weight and staying in shape will also build self-esteem and reduce the

International Day for Yoga, June 21...

Yoga sensation for the nation

Submitted by the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh-Guyana (Hindus for Selfless Service)

stress levels. In today’s edi tion, we will be looking at some intermediate pos tures that will help us get in shape. Once you have been practicing our previous pos tures, then you should make very light work of these.

Sit down on a mat, and stretch out your legs. Your knees should be pulled up, thighs should be tight and your toes should be pointed out.

Now try to raise your feet of the ground and bring your legs to a 45 degree angle. Inhale while you raise your feet and avoid bending your knees.

The spine should be straight and your body should make a V shape. Raise your arms to the shoul der lev el. This pose will increase your stami -

na and also cut down tummy

bent and the soles of your feet should be facing each other. You should press the soles together and hold this pose for at least a minute.

Yoga camel pose

Sit on your feet with your knees and calves close together. You need to use some soft cloth under you to prevent pain. Now come onto your knees and place your hands on your hips.

strength. If you like to add a variation to this pose. Try to lift up one leg in the air for 20 seconds. You should repeat the same with the other leg.

Yoga cobbler’s pose

The cobbler’s pose is one of the easiest and helpful poses of yoga. You need to sit down with your spine straight. Your knees should be

Stretching out the torso, look above. Hold your heels slowly, one hand after the other.

They help you to lose unhealthy fatty tissue in the body. Constipation, stress and nervous tension are reduced by these poses.

Following these yoga poses for weight loss will help you get a sound mind and a sound body.

Keep practicing all the postures that we have brought to you so far. Why? Well, because on June 21 we would like to see you participating in our International day of Yoga event hosted at Everest Cricket Ground from 10:00h to 13:00h. All the yoga postures that we have introduced will be on demonstration

Bend backward and stretch out the chest and tummy. You can feel the weight in your arms. This position is useful to melt the fat in almost all the areas of the body.

The instructions above will be able to help you in effectively stretching the muscles around the hips, waist, abdomen, legs and hands. This will eliminate the fats and give you a healthier, lighter body.

and you, yes you, will be doing them on that day. So get those yoga mats out and keep working. Let us make thoughts become reality. Let us be fit. Let us do YOGA. We welcome feedbacks from our reader, so like and comment on our Facebook page- Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh Guyana or email us at kseenanan@yahoo.com. Do have a peaceful day. Yoga sensation for the nation!

Roopnaraine says changes needed to enhance NGSA performance

– to target declined performance in English

Emotions were running high on Thursday morning at primary schools and homes across the country as the Education Ministry announced the 2015 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) results.

A total of 15,225 students across Guyana wrote the NGSA examination on April 1 and 2, in four subject areas: English Language, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies. Prior to this, the students had to write the National Grades Two and Four Assessments, back in 2011 and 2013 respectively. The marks from all three assessments were added together to determine the overall performance of each student.

The highest possible mark that could have been obtained was a total of 535. The top student, Solomon Cherai, acquired 530 marks. Of the country’s top one per cent of students, 94 were females and 72 males, making a total of 166 students 9who secured marks between 535 and 515.

Speaking at the press conference on Thursday, Education Minister Dr Rupert Roopnaraine stated that while he is happy with the performance of students at this year’s NGSA, there is still room for improvements in the primary education system. He noted that over the next coming years, there will be mass improvements at his Ministry, which will ultimately see improvements in the performance of students. “I’m very happy that we have achieved what we’ve achieved. Frankly there is more to be done…It’s not that I’m complaining, I just believe there is room for improvements and we intend to do everything we can to make sure that when we meet in a year’s time, we will see improvements in the results,” Dr Roopnaraine promised.

The Minister highlighted that there has been a decline in the number of students that are sitting the assessment examination; as such the Education Ministry needs to continue to ensure that all children are afforded the opportunity to attend the full school cycle.

Additionally, Dr Roopnaraine pointed out that pointed out that another area that needed to be addressed is the improvement of working conditions for teachers. “What you have been doing is really something we can’t begin to thank you enough for. One of the things that I, myself, will do is to ensure that our teachers have the best facilities, are amply rewarded in relation to their salaries, and we want to lift the level of teaching, counselling and all the other dimension of our schools. This is a task I have set myself and is something I can only do with your fullest cooperation,” the Minister remarked.

On the other hand, Dr Roopnaraine outlined that while there was an increased

performance in Mathematics, Science and Social Studies, the performance of students in English saw a decline this year. According to the Minister, this matter needs

512 marks and was given St Stanislaus College; Region Two’s (Pomeroon-Supenaam) top performer is Duvina Seurattan of Fisher Primary with 522. She was given a spot

Queen’s College.

Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) saw Akeem Williams of St John the Baptist Primary securing a spot at St Rose’s High with

to be addressed at the primary level by implementing more effective strategies.

Furthermore, the Minister noted that there are consulting with the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) on the Grades Two, Four and Six assessments, seeking how to build capacity and ensure Guyana has an effective gauge as how its children are nationally when compared to regional standards.

Meanwhile, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) was highlighted as the most improved region with a 6 per cent increase in the performance of students in all four subjects. According to Chief Education Officer (CEO) Olato Sam, this improved performance was expected as a result of the Ministry’s intervention in improving teacher’s training in the region. “We would have expected improvements in the performance across the board in Region Nine, largely because of our focus on teachers’ training at both the primary and nursery level in that region,” he disclosed. The CEO explained that the Cyril’s Potter College has implemented a programme that focuses on expanding teachers’ training facilities across the country.

Sam underscored that Region Nine and other Hinterland Regions benefited the most from the programme than any other regions. “We have had significant increase in percentage of trained teachers. We would have expected to see a concurrent improvement in relation to the overall performance of our people, and now we are seeing that,” he noted. Region Nine’s top performer is Rennata Nickram of St Ignatius Primary, who secured 516 marks and was awarded a place at the Bishops’ High School.

In Region One (BarimaWaini), Carlos Hernandes of Santa Rosa Primary obtained

at Queen’s College, along with Region Three’s (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) top students from Academy of Excellence, Shreya Persaud and Isabella Hussien, both of whom tied with 526 marks.

Meanwhile Region Four’s (Demerara-Mahaica) and the country’s top student was Cherai from Success Elementary School on the East Bank or Demerara. Lallchan Gajadhar, of Rosignol Primary, copped the top spot in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) with 522 marks. He was upped three marks (525) by Travis Isaacs of All Saints Primary in Region Six (East Corentyne-Berbice). They were all awarded a place at

505 marks. Loriann Gildhari from School of Excellence in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni) obtained 478 marks and was given a spot at Mahdia Secondary. Also securing a space at Queen’s College was Nkechi Layne of Regma Primary in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) with 521 marks. And finally, Georgetown’s top student was New Guyana School’s product Bhedesh Persaud with 525, which got him a place at Queen’s College.

The NGSA is a placement examination offered at the end of the primary school cycle to determine which secondary school students will be placed into.

Granger wants “review” on Cummingsburg Accord breach

−

By Gomatie GanGadin

Amid mounting criticism from various sections of society over deviations by the Alliance For Change (AFC) and the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) coalition from the Cummingsburg Accord, former Foreign Affairs Minister and political commentator, Dr Henry Jeffrey and social activist Ramon Gaskin are calling on the new Government to offer an explanation to the Guyanese people on the breaches. According to the February 14th Accord, the President shall, among other things, delegate the responsibilities of domestic national affairs and the chairing of Cabinet to the Prime Minister. Other responsibilities delegated to the Prime Minister should have included recommending ministerial appointments and providing the organisational structures of Ministries for the approval of the President; appointment of heads of agencies and non-constitutional commissions, with the required and agreed democratic mechanisms of consulta-

Jeffrey says coalition must explain violation turn to page 11

tion, and domestic security (Home Affairs). The parties had also agreed that Cabinet positions would be allocated on a 60/40 basis between APNU and the AFC, respec-

Dr Henry Jeffrey

tively. However, the David Granger Administration currently boasts four Vice Presidents, two from the APNU and two from the AFC, while the first two Cabinet sittings were chaired by President Granger.

Education Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine and Chief Elections Officer Olato Sam along with the NGSA top performers

Ex-presidential guard shot by teenaged stepson

An ex-presidential guard is nursing two gunshot injuries to his hand and abdomen after he was shot by his teenage stepson on Wednesday evening during an argument at their Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke/Linden Highway, East Bank Demerara home.

Samuel Wilson, 39, of Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke/ Linden Highway, is in a stable condition in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Georgetown Public Hospital while his 17-yearold stepson remains on the lam.

According to information received, Wilson was at home with his two stepchildren when an argument ensued between him and the teenager over his approach to life and the manner in which he was living his life. During the argument, the ex-presidential

guard who was in the lower flat of the house reported told the young man to get his act together before his mother returns from overseas.

The young man reportedly went upstairs for a short while and rejoined his stepfather and the argument continued. This was followed by two gunshots before the place went silent. A daughter who was in the upper flat of the house ran downstairs and managed to stop the young man from discharging other rounds at Wilson who was already lying on the ground.

The daughter reportedly contacted the man’s siblings who rushed over and hurriedly took him to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where he was transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital. The Police

Labourer gets 18 months for larceny

Alabourer was on Thursday sentenced to 18 months in prison by Magistrate Annet Singh in Court 11 at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, after appearing before her charged with two counts of simple larceny.

Devon Semple, 35 years old of 75 Breda Street, Werk-En-Rust, Georgetown, pleaded guilty to the charge which read that, on Tuesday June 2, he stole three clothing baskets valued at $6000 from the property of the Virtual Complainant (VC), Farzana Hannif. The defendant also pleaded guilty to the charge which read that, on Saturday June 6, he stole a number of articles, totalling to a value of $12,150, from the property of the same VC.

According to the facts presented by Police Prosecutor Aduni Innis, on June 2, between 21:00h and

07:00h the following morning the defendant illegally entered the VC’s fenced yard and stole three clothing baskets worth $2000 each. Then again, on June 6 between 21:00h and 02:00h the following day, he illegally entered the VC’s fenced yard and stole three door mats worth $1000 each, two mats worth $2000 each, one mat worth $650 and three umbrellas valued at $1500 each, adding to a total value of $12,150.

The prosecutor also informed the court that the articles were not recovered, but that the defendant requested money from the VC in exchange for the articles to be returned.

After reviewing the facts of the charge the Magistrate sentenced the defendant to nine months in prison on each charge, adding that the sentences will be served consecutively.

arrived on the scene and retrieved a .9mm Taurus pistol with 11 rounds.

A sister of the injured man who identified herself as Miss Duncan, during a telephone interview with Guyana Times said based on information she received, the young man might have known where her brother would leave his licensed firearm and on the night of the shooting, he collected it and discharge two rounds. As he pointed the gun to Wilson, he reportedly stated “this go done the embarrassment”.

She explained that her brother was a presidential guard during which time he was issued with a firearm licence. Nevertheless, she said that when she visited her brother at the hospital, he told those around that he wishes not to press charges against his step-

son.

Duncan also pleaded for the young man to return home, iterating that no one will harm him. The woman stated that her brother loves his stepchildren and has already forgiven the young man for inflicting gunshot injuries on him.

The woman could not give an accurate account of what started the argument, but the way the shooting was committed, it seems as though the act was premeditated. She said that her brother remains in a stable condition in the ICU of the hospital and relatives are hoping for the best.

The father of three was described as a disciplinarian, who sometimes goes extra hard on his stepchildren, leading some to believe that that might have created a rift between Wilson and his stepson.

Break up, make up couple in court again

A35-year old man was brought to the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court by his girlfriend for supposedly beating her until she was black and blue.

The accused, Sohan Narine, is a bus driver from Annandale, East Coast Demerara. It was disclosed in court that he allegedly wounded the Virtual Complainant (VC), Kavita Persaud, on June 8 while at their 63 Gale Street residence in Annandale.

He was represented by his attorney, who stated that his client was not guilty. He made an application for reasonable bail, providing the relevant details of age, address and occupation for the court’s files.

The Police Prosecutor, Inspector Anthony, stated that she had no objec -

tion to this. She stated that the couple has come before the court a number of times on a number of charges against the defendant.

On this occasion, the Inspector Anthony told the court that the accused had allegedly beaten the VC after they had an argument. Persaud had lacerations under her eyes, hands and feet to indicate as much. Nevertheless, presiding Magistrate Alicia George allowed bail in the sum of $10,000.

Guyana Times understands that the couple constantly breaks up and makes up. Observers state that the VC brings the defendant to court every time the accused attempts to leave her. It was noted that the couple still remains together after the incident.

Eyew tness

Inclusion...

...or exclusion?

After a looooong period of holding out, just before he passed on to the great beyond in 2002, PNC leader Desmond Hoyte came around to the idea that there should be some kind of "shared governance" in Guyana.

Seems that just before the Founder Leader of the PNC, Forbes Burnham had made that same crossing over in 1985, he'd been locked in talks with his arch-rival Cheddi Jagan for the two parties to at least talks about the idea.

According to Hamilton Green, after the death of Burnham, it was Hoyte who'd scuttled the talks. Felt that by jettisoning the co-op socialism straight jacket he could win it all, fair and square.

He didn't. Hoyte's successor Corbin kept the faith after 2002 and so did his hand-picked leader from the "outside", David Granger. But something strange happened after the 2011 elections, when it became apparent that with a little push, the PNC in its new avatar as APNU could just win it all.

While the talk about "shared governance" was mouthed, very little action was made to bring it about.

In fact, after APNU forged an alliance with the AFC and by GECOM's announcement won the 2015 elections by a mere 5000 votes, it announced that the holy grail of "national unity" was achieved. So was there any need for "shared governance" in this new dispensation. Most thought not.

So it was with some surprise the Minister of the Presidency and the President both announced that the government of "national unity" had invited the PPPC to join the love fest.

Fellas who earned their living trying to read these tea leaves scrambled to discern whether there were some Ministries secreted away in case the PPPC accepted the invitation. But sadly, hopes were dashed when the PPPC announced that the GOVERNMENT had sent no invitation - just APNU, which was just one party in the government.

The Minister of the Presidency and his boss sheepishly admitted that it was true that the invitation was just a party to party undertaking. And that if the PPPC wanted, the government could send an invitation to hook up.

And this, not surprisingly set off a whole new wave of tongue wagging. "Wasn't the AFC supposed to be consulted if the PPPC were to be coming into the tent?

Not to cut too fine a line, but wouldn't the AFC's shares (so to speak) going to be diluted if the PPPC with almost half the vote be given their just desserts? Or then again, with both Nagamootoo and Ramjattan repeat their standard line that if the President "say so, is so"?

Inquiring minds want to know!

...and social cohesion

President Granger began his "State of the Union" address talking about "social cohesion". Clearly, his renaming the old "Social Services" Ministry to "Social Cohesion" wasn't just an idle gesture.

So what's going to bring us together to "cohere"? We won't get into the topic covered above - namely shared governance - that's Raphael Trotman's bailiwick. Volda Lawrence and her Deputy Simona "I name is" Broomes are charged with getting the nation to cohere.

And that's why this Eyewitness thinks Broomes has to get with her President's programme. Take her recent TIP raid at Bartica - the gateway to our rugged gold and diamond frontier. With about one human per square mile, "social cohesion" ain't easy.

And here we had some girls (foreign at that!) willingly throwing their bodies into the effort to bring "cohesion"(even adhesion!) to those isolated miners and what happened?

These angels of mercy are hauled all the way to Georgetown for having expired entry stamps on their passports! They shoulda been given medals of service!

...and representation

Isn't it just a bit ironic for some folks - elected to the 10th parliament - went down to Linden to protest - now criticizing the PPPC for protesting outside of Parliament?

At least the PPPC ain't burning bridges.

Guyana open for business, says Greenidge

– at Day of Russia reception

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge declared Guyana open for business on Wednesday evening, calling on Russian companies who are not yet a part of Guyana’s economy, to come on board.

The Minister made this bold declaration while at the Russian Embassy on the occasion of a celebration of the ‘Day of Russia’, unequivocally stating that he “welcomes companies with an interest in investing in (Guyana’s) economy.”

Minister Greenidge addressed the Russian Ambassador to Guyana, Nikolay Smirnov, urging him to “engage and invite other Russian companies to pursue investments in Guyana.”

Mention was made of the contributions made by the Russian Company RUSAL and its subsidiary, Bauxite Corporation of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI) – both having facilitated socioeconomic developments in Guyana through skills training and job creation. The companies offer such opportunities to its employees, of

tus it has given Guyana’s security sector, particularly in the area of human resource development.

Minister Greenidge said this training “will no doubt contribute to citizens’ security and enable an environment for socioeconomic activity, (adding that) this is fundamental to continue economic development in Guyana.”

There are several issues on the international agenda that are relevant to

as it symbolises the historic choice of the Russian people.

In 1990, the Parliament adopted the Declaration of National Sovereignty. However, it was in1992 that the Supreme Soviet of Russia proclaimed June 12 a national holiday. This was also seconded by the Russian President at the time, Boris Yeltsin, on June 2, 1994 but it was then called the ‘Day of Russia.’ This day according to the opinion polls unites Russian citizens as a patriot-

which several Guyanese are a part of, as well as the students it sponsors in universities overseas.

The Minister said that economic diplomacy will be given priority by his Administration, stating that this will enable greater partnership between Public and Private Sectors, and by extension, enable an improved economy.

In addition, the Foreign Affairs Minister disclosed that Russia and Guyana is currently considering an investment treaty. This is expected to totally adjust the scales of bargaining in Guyana’s favour. “Pending agreements” in fields of economy and security were also mentioned by Minister Greenidge. He stated that these agreements are being worked on at the moment.

He used the short- term training programme offered by the Russian Federation in the security sector as an example, indicating the impe-

Guyana’s national interest. These include economic cooperation, climate change, the promotion of peace, security, human rights, the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and charting a course for the post 2015 development agenda. Minister Greenidge said that he looks forward to the continued collaboration with Russia on these issues, adding that it shall be “with renewed fervour to attain meaningful solutions.”

Meanwhile, Ambassador Smirnov confirmed that Russia will be collaborating with Guyana in the spheres mentioned by Minister Greenidge. He stated that his team is currently working on investment promotion and protection, mutual visa waivers, education and also Police interaction agreements.

Regarding the ‘Day of Russia’, he explained that the ‘Day of Russia’ is celebrated on June 12 every year

ic holiday.

The Ambassador said Russia aims “to protect civil liberties, human rights, stating that such values are given more significance on the ‘Day of Russia’. Among these, he detailed the “supremacy of International Law (and) respect for the leading role of the United Nations as the universal organisation.”

The Russian Ambassador was forceful as he stated that Russia denounces any sort of double standards in international policy, extraterritorial application of force and domestic laws. He added that the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Lybia and Syria shows why such policies should not be practiced.

Ambassador Smirnov continued that the universal values should be more considered now as the world is becoming more complicated, commenting that 2015 is a special year to advocate such values.

However, the reason for

More blackouts for Region 2

these values was enmeshed in the Ambassador’s speech on his friendly relations with countries all across the world, reiterating once more its tolerance and respect for all nations.

In the case of Guyana, the Russian Ambassador to Guyana stated that “our countries share common vision on most issues of the international agenda, including global food security and SIDS sustainable development, countering climate change, terrorism, drug trafficking. Our ties are enriched with people-to-people contacts.”

The recent proof to this being the signing of the Agreement of Cooperation between the People’s Friendship University of Russia and the University of Guyana. The Ambassador said this will bolster interstate educational exchanges.

Residents of Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), especially those living in the south from Abrams Zuil to Supenaam, are complaining about the frequent power outages they have been experiencing for the past weeks.

The constant power outages compounded by low voltage have resulted in many residents suffering damage to their appliances and the destruction of fluorescent lamps. Information Technology students, housewives, businesses and public entities are particularly affected, with small shop owners counting their losses in terms of meat and dairy products.

One resident from Golden Fleece said, “We have blackout all day: it cuts off from 6 in the morning and usually comes on around 6 in the evening, when this happens

the lights refuse to come on and when it does, it blinks like fairy lights.”

Those residing along the north of the Essequibo Coast from Anna Regina to Charity are also complaining of blackouts, adding that whenever the south has power, the north is left without.

Residents said they are paying their bills and as such reliable service should be given. Over the years, the Essequibo Coast and many parts of Guyana have suffered from frequent, sometimes protracted power outages. Residents are calling for answers as to why the constant power outages are occurring despite the recent installation of a 50-60 cycle generator.

Attempts to contact the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Inc in Region Two proved futile.

Success Elementary student...

“We knew he will do well because Solomon is a disciplined child when it comes with his work and books. We are very satisfied with his performance,” she noted.

On the other hand, his classmate, 11-year-old Shania Eastman, told media operatives that she was overjoyed when she heard the news but noted that she is happy that her hard work paid off.

“I put in a lot of work in preparing for exams and I had to put off a lot of things to study. My mom made a study time table for the afternoons and in the mornings… I also had to give up things like TV to study but it was worth it,” an elated Eastman noted.

The aspiring lawyer attributed her 529 mark achievement to her mother and the teachers of Success Elementary.

Meanwhile, the third spot was secured by Celine Farinha of Peters Hall Primary School with 526 marks. The young lady was very emotional when media operatives visited her at school. After calming down, she said to reporters that the news was related to her by her friend’s mother.

“My friend’s mother called and said she has a big surprise for me. Then when she came, I found out I got the third highest and I started to jump up,” she added. Farinha noted that while she was confident that she would have done well, she was not expecting to do so well.

The other top performers include Shreya Persaud from the Academy of Excellence with 526. Her classmate Isabella Hussain also secured the same marks. Tenyear-old Hussain, in an interview with Guyana Times said she jumped for joy as she was not expecting to do this well.

“I used do well throughout school but I didn’t expect to do so well because it’s the whole country,” she said nervously.

Additionally, Afeefah London from Success Elementary obtained 525 marks. The elated young lady told reporters that a few of the subjects were difficult but she managed it well and her achievement is proof. She shared the same marks with Travis Isaacs of All Saints Primary in Region Six; Bhedesh Persaud of the New Guyana School; Reanna Mc

from page 3

Curchin of St Margaret’s and Timur Singh of St Gabriel’s Primary.

Mc Curchin told Guyana Times “I felt excited when I heard the news… the exams were quite reasonable. I went to lessons and I worked quite hard to achieve what I did”. The aspiring lawyer revealed that she intends to continue her good performance in the future.

Meanwhile, over at St Gabriel’s Primary School, Timur Singh found it difficult to conceal his excitement. “I am very overjoyed about my results… Some of the exams were easy while some were hard but all the extra classes and lessons helped in that area,” he explained.

According to 11-year-old Persaud, he is very overjoyed at his performance since he put in a lot of hard work. “I did my homework at school so when I got home I took the time to revise. Any spare time was revision time for me,” he mentioned, while noted that he had to give up his hobbies such as cricket but is now trying to make up. The aspiring scientist is the Captain for the Guyana Cricket Club (GCC’s) Under-13 team.

The Russian Ambassador to Guyana, Nikolay Smirnov (second left), Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo (second right) with their families at the Day of Russia Reception

Some of the products that spoilt as a result of the blackouts and had to be discarded

A section of the gathering at the Day of Russia Reception

Govt now says forensic audits are "to satisfy donors"

...auditors to self-police conflict of interests, biases

The David Granger-led Administration said one of the reasons for the forensic audits it has commissioned into several state agencies is to satisfy the demands of the donor agencies and the international community. It also said that it has taken into consideration the possibility of conflicts of interests and bias in the selection of the accountants to conduct the audits.

Already an accredited accountant has urged the Administration to engage one or more international accounting firms to conduct the forensic audits, arguing that some of the local firms identified present a clear case of conflict of interest and could destroy the credibility of the work they are being contracted to do. The accountant, who asked not to be named, is also contending that a forensic audit is usually underpinned by legislative provisions, which are non-existent at the moment, and also called for greater transparency in the awarding of the contracts, citing that no tender was advertised for the auditing services, but firms were just handpicked for the job.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan, speaking to media operatives on Monday at the Parliament Building, related that the Ministry has contracted private independent firms such as Ram and McRae, Hinds and Associates, former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran, among others, to begin the audits into the operations and transactions of 30 plus agencies. Both Christopher Ram and Goolsarran were staunch critics of the previous Administration

and had publicly commented on the financial status of a number of the agencies being audited.

Junior Finance Minister Jaipaul Sharma, who is coordinating the audits, during an interview with the Guyana Times, noted that Cabinet proposed several terms of reference which the firms have to follow. When asked for specifics on those terms of reference, Sharma said it entails codes for proper operations and financial accuracy, but he did not divulge any further details. He maintained that the accountants selected are certified individuals who have a code of ethics to follow and will not risk losing their licences for the sake of satisfying their personal biases. Sharma explained that in the event one of the accountants discovered that his personal perception of a particular agency is incorrect, he/she will have no other choice but to accept it as the records will not lie.

He added that after the accountants complete their investigations, they first have to submit their findings to the agency for approval. If that agency disagrees with the findings, the report cannot be submitted to the Ministry of Finance. Further, if the accountant and agency are at odds over the findings, then the accountant has to present the relevant evidence to support his claims while the agency does the same. If no common ground is reached, then the report will be submitted as it is and if it should be moved to the courts, then the system will be the judge of which body has the most supporting case. Sharma maintained that any citizen, regardless of profession, is en-

titled to his views and has the right to have both a professional and private life. He noted too, that for additional security, he will not give an agency to an auditor if he knows there is a connection between the individual and a particular agency.

The accountant, who spoke with this newspaper, had cited that both Goolsarran and Ram, are public critics of the past People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Administration and supporters of the current A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government. The accountant noted that Goolsarran also worked under the People’s National Congress (PNC) Administration as the Auditor General. “Given their ties to this administration and obvious animosity towards the PPP/C, this is a clear case of lack of independence and conflict of interest. Goolsarran and Ram, who are members of the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), should be reminded of that body’s code of ethics which mandate Integrity, Objectivity,

Professional Competence and Due Care, Confidentiality and Professional Behaviour. Both gentlemen should, therefore, do the honourable thing and distance themselves from this engagement,” the accountant urged.

He added that it is standard practice for the Office of the Auditor General to subcontract local firms to carry out periodic audits of various state entities on their behalf. This practice, in itself, renders any firm which has previously been engaged as auditor for a particular agency as ineligible to undertake a forensic audit on the same agency.

Asked why the Audit Office was not used to conduct these internal audits, Sharma noted that the government did not want to burden the entity. He explained that the Audit Office has their mandate and its own work that needs to be completed in a specific period of time and therefore, additional work on the Audit Office would only create conflict. “Right now the Auditor General is in receipt of Appropriation Accounts and he will be doing his work…we, on the other hand, have to do our work. Our work is going to

be that, as a new Government, we need to know what is happening internally within the Ministries… we have looked at the Auditor General’s reports and his last audit was not made public yet and it is still with the Speaker… so if you are going to burden the Audit Office with this forensic audit, he will fail to reach his deadline…so it would be unfair to the Audit Office to give them additional work. This work is for internal purpose,” he said.

Sharma disclosed that funding for these audits will come from the Ministry of Finance, though the Government is seeking additional funding from international bodies. Asked for an estimated cost, Sharma said it is too premature to give estimation. “As we engage the auditors, they will have to go do an entrance meeting and interview with the agency. They have to understand the scope of the work. You can’t just pronounce on a cost. After the meeting, they will sit down and determine the staff and time period for each and every aspect and then they will get a cost,” he explained. Sharma explained that one of the reasons the new Administration is con-

ducting these audits is to meet the demands of the international community.

He explained that before the APNU+AFC coalition went into Government, the international community indicated several expectations they have of the new Government. “The demands for this new Administration are a lot. We have to fulfil these demands, in areas of accountability and transparency… We aren’t doing this because we want to spend money or we want to witch hunt anybody… it’s a demand and request from these agencies that transparency and accountability must be available,” he noted.

He added that, if the Government did not perform the financial audits, then it will not have the financial support of the international bodies. Asked about the possibility of conviction for any entity found in breach, Sharma said that is not the purpose of the audits. However, he noted that, if the accountants recommend a particular entity be taken to the Courts, then the Government will act on those recommendations, providing that there is sufficient evidence.

Man charged with armed robbery, attempted murder remanded

The young man who was shot twice on Saturday during a robbery at Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD) made his first court appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on Monday charged with armed robbery and attempted murder.

Twenty-two-year-old Curtis Vasconcellos, of First Street, Agricola, Greater Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that on Saturday, June 6 at Grove, he discharged a loaded firearm at the Virtual Complainant (VC), Neezam Khan with the intent to murder him. The young man also denied the charge which read that on the said occasion while being armed with a gun, he robbed Khan of a gold chain valued at $200,000 and a quantity of rings valued $500,000.

According to the facts presented by Police Prosecutor Bharat Mangru, on Saturday about 14:30h, the businessman, of Lot 72 Grove, who is a licensed firearm holder, was standing with others in front of a Halaal snackette in the village when the defendant and others rode up on two CV motorbikes and stopped. The de-

fendant then pointed a gun at the VC and relieved him of a chain and the rings he was wearing. After the bandits attempted to escape from the crime scene, the VC pulled out his gun and fired several shots at them during which the defendant was shot to his arm and one of his accomplices were fatally shot. Mangru informed the court that during an identification parade the VC positively identified the defendant.

The defendant’s Attorney, Dexter Todd, disputed the facts presented by the Prosecutor, arguing that on the day in question his client was the rider of a CV motorbike which

was parked at the head of the Diamond Roadway. He stated that his client saw the incident taking place, but has no connection to it.

According to Todd, his client heard the gunshots and attempted to ride away from the immediate danger. Todd stated that a firearm was not recovered nor was there any matching the description that was given. He also argued that a gunpowder test was not conducted on his client as to affirm whether or not he had fired a gun, adding that the only evidence the charges were based on was the identification by the victim. Todd stated that he fully intended to challenge the identification parade in due time. On these grounds, an application for reasonable bail was made.

Prosecutor Mangru objected to bail based on the seriousness and prevalence of the offence and the penalty that the offence attracts and stated that if granted bail the defendant was not likely to return to court.

The Magistrate refused bail and the defendant was remanded to prison until June 30 when the matter is scheduled to return to court.

Labourer on bail for breaking and entering charge

Ayoung man was on Thursday placed on $30,000 bail by Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts following two charges, one of unlawful entry and the other of simple larceny.

Cleveland Allen, a 24-yearold labourer of 283 Lamaha Park, Greater Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that, on Monday June 8 at Bourda Market, Georgetown, he attempted to commit a felony, that is breaking and entering and larceny. The defendant pleaded guilty to another charge which read that, on Monday June 8 at Bourda Market, he was an unauthorised person in the mar-

ket during prohibited hours.

According to the prosecutor, on the day in question at around 21:00h, during a search by the Anti- Crime Unit of the City Constabulary, a market stall was discovered to be broken into with the door staples removed. A subsequent search of the vicinity resulted in the discovery of the defendant lying on top of another stall. Allen was then taken into custody, questioned and charged. Prosecution objected to bail on the grounds of the seriousness and prevalence of the offence, as well as the penalty that the offence contracts, stating that if granted bail the defendant is unlikely to return.

The defendant told the court that, on the day in question, he

had fainted in the compound due to a health issue, diabetes. His defence attorney, Paul Fung-A-Fat informed the court that nothing was stolen from the stall and his client has no knowledge of the broken stall. He requested that the court give his client the benefit of a doubt and requested reasonable bail. The prosecution’s objection was overruled by the Magistrate SewnarineBeharry, who placed the defendant on $30,000 bail for the first charge of breaking and entering. He was also fined $20,000 on the second charge of being an unauthorised person in the market after hours. Allen will return to Court 10 before Magistrate Alex Moore on July 10.

Curtis Vasconcellos

Junior Finance Minister Jaipaul Sharma

Parfaite Harmonie murder

Suspect professes innocence

As Police received the go-ahead by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack to institute a murder charge against Ravindra Ramdat

for the shooting to death of Dennis Narine, the suspect is holding out that he did not kill the taxi driver. He told investigators that he and the dead man’s wife were having an affair

Granger wants...

However, Dr Jeffrey, in an invited comment related that despite the fact that the Prime Minister has indicated that he was not bothered by the deviation, the fact of the matter was that there were changes from the agreement which was penned by the two parties. He explained that the AFC must now go to the people and explain why it is that there is a deviation.

The political commentator further pointed out that while the Constitution requires that the President chair Cabinet, the Accord had stated that such a task will be delegated to the Prime Minister and as such, the legal minds in the coalition should have known that this could not be. “They should have known this before. They cannot say they did not know this before,” Jeffrey intoned.

According to Jeffrey, a deviation is a violation of the agreement and as such, there is now a need for the parties to sit down and explain to the Guyanese society why it is so since Guyanese would have judged them and voted for the coalition based on what the document was premised.

“People voted for them based on the agreement so they really need to explain that. Also, from my point of view, I understand that conditions can change, but they cannot unilaterally change. We need to have an explanation,” he opined.

In the meantime, Gaskin, a prominent social activist, told Guyana Times that he was prepared to give them some time to adjust and to get things in order since they are relatively new in the Government. He noted that while there is a deviation from the arrangement of the Cabinet’s chairmanship, it could simply mean that the President, for the first set of meetings,

from page 7

wanted to meet with his Ministers in an effort to discuss with them, his expectations and responsibilities which have been bestowed upon them.

He, however, admitted that by virtue of signing an agreement and presenting it to the Guyanese public, they should have and must adhere to such and to this end, he will be keeping an eye out to see whether it is indeed a matter of them adjusting or whether they intend on a continued breach of the document.

President Granger for his part when asked to comment on the deviation expressed that the coalition was presently working on a review of the document.

He admitted that to persist with some of the stipulations of the Accord will be unconstitutional and as such, he will be awaiting the constitutional reform so that the agreement can be followed.

“To the extent that some things are in collision with the Constitution they will await constitutional change…we cannot be expected to do unconstitutional things,” Granger told reporters.

When questioned on the matter on Monday by Guyana Times, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo said nonchalantly that he was not bothered or in any way affected by President Granger reneging on that agreement and chairing the proceedings of the Cabinet.

Nagamootoo had further stated that the Accord was not worth more than the country and, as such, those were minor things. “We have an active President and we have to make this Accord work; make this coalition work; and for me the things that are minor irritancies I won’t elevate to any importance,” he had said.

and admitted visiting the man’s house prior to the shooting. At the time he visited the house, Narine was not at home. However, after his arrest on Wednesday, he claimed that while he was at the house, the woman received information that her husband was on his way home, so he left.

However, the woman said she and Ramdat were seeing each other, but on the night of the fatal shooting, she told her husband about her infidelity. She told Police that her husband had forgiven her and agreed to move on.

She stated that she was roused from sleep by a text

message from her lover asking to see her, but she refused to meet him. Soon after, she explained she heard the louver panes being removed and her husband collected a cutlass and went towards the window. As he approached the window, she said Ramdat pushed his hand through the window and discharged two rounds from a gun hitting Narine to the chest.

Ramdat claimed that he did not own a gun and was holding out that he did not commit the murder. However, his lover said that she had seen him on other occasions with a firearm which he threatened to use

to kill her if he did not get her.

Lured

The woman also claimed that on the day Ramdat was arrested, she lured him into coming to the house by sending a text message intimating that she wanted to see him.

Narine, a father of three, of Lot 587 Parfaite Harmonie Housing Scheme, was shot once to the chest by the lone gunman. He was pronounced dead on arrival at the West Demerara Regional Hospital. It was reported that at about 23:00h on the day in question, the now dead man

was at home with his wife and children when he heard someone removing a louver pane from the window. He raised an alarm and the perpetrator ran away, thus Narine went back to sleep without contacting the Police.

About 01:30h, the man was again awakened by the sound of crashing louver panes, hence he reportedly collected a cutlass and rushed towards the window. It was then that the suspected bandit pushed the gun through the window and discharged two rounds, hitting Narine to the left side of his chest.

Ravindra Ramdat Dennis Narine

friday, june 12, 2015

PPP/C slams Govt, Kaieteur News for distorting illicit financial flows report

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has accused the Government and the Kaieteur News of deliberately distorting a Global Financial Integrity (GFI) report on illicit financial flows and development indices 2008-2012 on Guyana.

Recently, Minister of State Joe Harmon disclosed that Government was seeking international help after a World Bank report had shown that close to $500 billion was being stolen every year. Harmon maintained that the Government would move to establish and make operational a State Assets Recovery Unit (SARU) which would track down the monies and other assets to ensure that they are brought back into the public’s coffers. He said that SARU is part of a multipronged approach to stamp out graft and will be independent, away from the political direction of the Administration. It will com-

prise members from civil society agencies, the business community and the Guyana Human Rights Association. However, in a statement, the PPP/C said as always, once one looks beyond the surface, one discovers the true extent of the lies being peddled by these political operatives, strangers to the truth, and enemies of democracy. “In particular, in the current instance, what they failed to say is that the report they are quoting from focuses only on a subset of countries. As a result, a number of Caribbean countries are not included in that mini report. APNU/AFC/ KN instead makes the bold and misleading assertion that only two Caribbean countries are mentioned in the report. What they failed to say is that the same entity called Global Financial Integrity also published a larger and more comprehensive report on illicit financial flows from developing countries 2003-2012. When one examines this full report,

one discovers that the volume of illicit financial flows reported for Guyana is in fact much lower than for many other Caribbean countries.”

The PPP/C said specifically, a total of 145 countries are covered by this full report, of which 95 countries have average illicit financial flows for the period higher than Guyana. Among the countries with higher levels of illicit financial flows than Guyana are Trinidad and Tobago with an average of US$3.21 billion per annum, The Bahamas with US$1.634 billion, and Suriname with US$616 million, compared to Guyana’s US$281 million.

Secondly, PPP/C said the “APNU/AFC/KN cabal” deliberately distort the numbers indicated in this report as somehow reflecting money being siphoned off from the treasury. In fact, if one examines the methodology used by Global Financial Integrity to estimate these so-called illicit financial flows, one will soon

discover the extreme limitations in the methodology and one will quickly confirm that the methodology could not possibly measure money being siphoned off from anywhere. GFI states quite clearly that they use a statistical method to estimate these flows that is based on comparing trade data reported by an individual country with trade data reported by the rest of the world in relation to trade with that country, and uses discrepancies between the two.”

According to the PPP/C, needless to say, such discrepancies can exist for any number of reasons, and an aggregation of such discrepancies could by no stretch of the imagination estimate theft from a country’s treasury. In other words, if a trade transaction was incorrectly invoiced in either the exporting or importing country, the invoicing discrepancy would result in a difference reported by GFI. But, by no means would this discrepancy measure money being siphoned off from anywhere.

“In addition, GFI’s estimate of illicit flows also includes the entire errors and omissions amount from a country’s balance of payments. Once again, any first year economics student knows that errors and omissions can arise in a balance of payments for any number of reasons and, that by no stretch of the imagination can errors and omissions in a balance of payments be assumed to reflect money being siphoned off from anywhere. Indeed, elsewhere in their documentation, GFI acknowledges the shortcomings of their methodology. They explicitly recognise that the statistics they use can be flawed, due to errors in collection, recording, or conveying, and they state clearly that they are not suggesting that every single unrecorded transaction is illicit.”

The Opposition party said conveniently, the APNU/ AFC/KN ignored these shortcomings and data limitations that are in fact admitted to by the authors of the report. “Instead, they opportunistically manipulate a subset of the findings to create a misleading impression. This should come as no surprise to the Guyanese people, however, given the well-known fact that the APNU/AFC/KN waged an entire election campaign on lies, and given the fact they entered office on a lie that they won, and given the fact their 100 day campaign lie is soon to be disclosed to the Guyanese people. It is only a question of time before the truth is disclosed, and that is that the APNU/ AFC never intended to honour either the Cummingsburg Accord or to deliver the false promises they made in their manifesto, especially the 100day ones which by their own admission was a list of “goodies” intended to deceive the Guyanese people into voting for this coalition of dishonesty and opportunism.”

New MPs ready to represent Guyanese

By Vahnu Manikchand

Amid the pomp and grandeur at the reconvening of the 11th Parliament, several new faces were sworn in as the A Partnership For National Unity /Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Members of Parliament (MPs) on Wednesday and have signalled their readiness to represent the Guyanese people in the National Assembly. The APNU/AFC Government’s list of Parliamentarians comprises of a total of 36 members; the 33 to the allotted seats and three technocrat Ministers. These include 20 persons from the coalition’s National Top-Up List and 13 from its Geographic List. The lot also has 15 Senior Ministers and 12 Junior Ministers in its mix. Other members include APNU/AFC Regional Representatives such as Audwin Rutherford, Valerie Patterson, Jermaine Figueira, Haimraj Rajkumar, Richard Allen, Charandass Persaud, Jennifer Wade, Rajcoomarie Bancroft and John Adam.

In addition, there are several new faces in the 11th Parliament. Guyana Times caught up with some of them to get their reactions and objectives. For one, Region 10 Representative Audwin Rutherford, who was a Regional Councillor, said that serving as a Member of Parliament is an extension of his service to the people. “I know that a lot of people have high expectations of me, and I will deliver to them. There is so much that Linden has not been given…investment is the key to job creation in Linden. Persons are moving away from traditional skills in Linden; so once job creation is there, Linden will move forward,” he noted.

Meanwhile, the Junior Minister of the Social Protection Ministry, Simona Broomes, told media operatives that as a young Guyanese, she will be bringing her vision and inputs to the further develop the country. She outlined some of her areas of interests. “Definitely there are some areas in terms of rape, gender issues, human trafficking and workers; generally, to see how Guyanese workers were being neglected and the conditions they are working in and so on. I’m hoping that I can really make a big difference there and turn that around,” the Junior

Minister declared. In addition, other new comers holding Ministerial positions such as Minister within the Education Ministry, Nicolette Henry, said that she is also excited at having the opportunity to represent her fellow Guyanese in the National Assembly. She related that her top priority would be to have matters pertaining to the country’s development be addressed immediately. “I expect that the 11th Parliament addresses all those serious issues,” she stated.

Some of the other new Ministerial faces includes Finance Minister Winston Jordan, Agriculture Minister Noel Holder, and Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin. Another Region 10 Representative, Jermaine Figueira, expressed his confidence that the new administration will provide the development that the region is lacking, such as jobs and sporting facilities, among others. However, one area that is of utmost importance to him is the education sector.

“The region has been fighting for some time with the previous administration to get an arm of the University of Guyana established there because we have thousands of persons who attend the university in Georgetown. With this administration, I believe they would be more of a listening ear to the proposal that we have advanced so that the residents of not only Region 10 but the upper Berbice and Demerara Rivers, as well as the Amerindian settlements, too can have access to tertiary education,” he outlined.

On the other hand, another Regional Representative of the ruling party, Charandass Persaud, declared his excitement to be appointed a Parliamentarian, however he cognisant of the responsibility that comes with the position. “I’m glad that I’ve been entrusted with the responsibility of being a representative of the people…we need a lot of development so I’m here to see that this happens,” Persaud noted.

The 11th Parliament was opened in the absence of the now oppositional People’s Progressive Party/Civic Members of Parliament. The former ruling party is holding firm to its position that the May 11 General and Regional Elections were rigged, and has consequently opted not to participate in the parliamentary proceedings.

Audwin Rutherford

Charandass Persaud

Essequibo students excel at NGSA

– top performer from Fisher Primary School

By IndrawattIe natram

Several students of primary schools in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) have excelled at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), with the top 10 students gaining more than 95 per cent of a possible 535 marks.

The top NGSA performer for Region Two, Duvina Seurattan, expressed happiness on hearing that she has emerged the region’s best at the examination. The aspiring medical doctor achieved 522 marks and gained a place at Queen’s College in Georgetown.

During an interview, the Fisher Primary School stu-

dent told Guyana Times she credited her success to God, her parents and teachers. She said she was shocked when she first heard the announcement on National Communications Network (NCN) television, but added that she knew she would have done well. She said her greatest inspiration was her cousin, Naimo Sampson,

who was a true motivator to her. The 12-year-old said she would like to advise those sitting next year’s NGSA to stay focused and study, and everything will fall into place. Seurattan’s favourite subject was Mathematics. Coming in second for the region was Swati Saytoo from Taymouth Manor Primary who was awarded with a place at Bishops’ High School. Saytoo, who was very emotional during her interview, said she did it despite the many challenges that she faced, as she had lost her father during the examination time. Saytoo, who hails from Zorg Village, gained 521 marks and said her mother, who is a teacher, guided her. She also praised her teachers and lessons sir, “Jadooo” for

After 4 years on the run

their assistance.

Her schoolmate Christine Richardson was the thirdplace performer for the region. She said she could not have done it without extra lessons and studying into the wee hours of the morning. Richardson, who is from Adventure, thanked her parents and relatives for their support.

Number four on the regional list, Aditya Sukhai , of Hampton Court Primary, gained 516 marks. He attributed his success to late nights of studying and motivation from his parents.

The fifth placed performer for Region Two, Shavez Banwarie from CV Nunes Primary also credited his success to extra studies at night. The aspiring scientist said he was excited and happy about his success and gave credit to God, his parents and his lesson teacher “Sybil” .

Amalika Persaud, an aspiring lawyer and the number six performer, said she was elated over her success. A Taymouth Manor Primary School student from Queenstown, she gained 514 marks and attributed her success to extra lessons as

Man to be charged for murder

After four years on the run, Errol Kesney, who was wanted in connection with the murder of Patrick Ivor Daly of Lot 99 Esau Street, Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara in 2011, was arrested in New Amsterdam, Berbice on Saturday last.

A source told the Guyana Times that after committing the murder in 2011, Kesney, one of two suspected killers, fled to Suriname and was not see since. The other suspect, Curliegh Goodluck, was charged for the Daly’s murder but was acquitted.

A Police Officer stated that the wanted man was detained in New Amsterdam when he was found with two grams of cannabis in his possession. During his detention, he was identified as one of the men wanted for the 2011 murder and, despite being fined $10,000 for the narcotics, was further detained

as the Police verify his involvement in Daly’s murder.

The Police stated that Kesney was transported to Georgetown and positively identified by an eyewitness as the main perpetrator in the murder. The man has maintained his innocence, but the Police are now awaiting the advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions to institute the charges. Once that is done, Kesney will make his first court appearance.

Daly, a 29-year-old firefighter of Land of Canaan, was doused with acid and then hacked to death by two men who had cornered him in the backyard toilet of his home. He was chopped nine times with a cutlass and a machete, while his reputed wife helplessly looked on. He collapsed and died from gaping wounds to his back and limbs.

Police said that the ferocity of the attack left one of his

legs partly severed. Daly’s attackers had fled the scene, leaving the bloody machete near his body.

well.

Sarah Singh, from Riverstown Primary, the joint number six performer, also ascribed her success to extra lessons. She also gained 514 marks and a place at Bishops’ High School.

Number seven in the region’s top 10, Manisha Kawallaram, another 12-year-old student of Fisher Primary, said the examination was challenging and she was happy she was among the top performers for Region Two, with 513 marks.

Reynard Ramroop and Shane Samaroo from CV Nunes Primary rounded out the top 10 with 513 marks

as well. Both young men thanked their lessons teacher for the effort put in and patience displayed during the preparation for the examination. Ramroop would

like to become a civil engineer and Samaroo, a medical doctor.

Regional Education Officer Bharamdai Seepersaud offered her congratulations to the students for their sterling performances. She and a team from the Department of Education visited the children at their respective schools and extended best wishes.

However, she said she believed that Region Two could

have done better, and there was room for improvement. The Regional Education Officer called on teachers to work harder with the children, while thanking for their efforts thus far.

Aditya Sukhai, from Hampton Court Primary, fourth top student of Region 2

Christine Richardson, from Taymonth Manor Primary, third for Region 2

Shane Samaroo, C V Nunes Primary, eighth Performer in Region 2

Duvina Seurattan, Fisher Primary and Region 2 top performer

Amalika Persaud, from Taymonth Manor, sixth performer in Region 2

Swasti Saytoo, from Taymonth Manor Primary, second performer in Region 2

Shavez Banwarie, from Region 2, C V Nunes Primary

Reynard Ramroop, from C V Nunes Primary, eighth performer in Region 2

friday, june 12, 2015|

Technocrat Ministers’ appointment controversy... Clerk defends rejection of PPP/C’s advice

... latter says judicial review needed

The Opposition People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) says a “judicial review” may be needed to resolve the controversy surrounding the appointment of three individuals as Members of Parliament and Technocratic Ministers for the new David Granger Administration in the 65-seat legislature.

The Party came to that conclusion after Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs defended his decision to swear in A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Members Keith Scott as Technocrat Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Sydney Allicock as Technocrat

Minister of Indigenous Peoples Affairs, and Winston Felix as Technocrat Minister of Citizenship.

In a release to the media on Thursday, Isaacs stated that he had been contacted by PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee who advised that those individuals not be administered the oath of office on the grounds that it was unlawful.

Rohee referred him to Articles 103 (3) and 105 of the Constitution, but Isaacs contended that a thorough examination of the Articles would reveal that they do not adequately define a non-elected Member.

“A perusal of the

Representation of the People Act (Cap 1:03), and, in accordance with practice, an elected Member can be safely defined as a person whose name was extracted from the list of candidates and declared by the Guyana Elections Commission to be a Member of Parliament,” Isaacs said.

He argued further in his missive to the media that “in his view”, a person who is on the list (presented by the contesting Parties on Nomination Day) and whose name was not extracted and declared by the Guyana Elections Commission to be an elected Member, can be appointed a non-elected

Minister or a Parliamentary Secretary in accordance with Article 104 (3) of the Constitution.

“Precedent has also been established on this matter in the Ninth and Tenth Parliaments in the case of Mr Ralph Ramkarran who was on the People’s Progressive Party /Civic’s list of candidates in 2006 and subsequently became a nonelected Speaker of the National Assembly. In addition, Mr Raphael Trotman was on the Alliance For Change’s list of candidates in 2011 and was also a nonelected Speaker,” Isaacs related.

However, one analyst

pointed out that the “precedent” cited by the Clerk refers to Speakers and not Ministers to which the constitutional articles cited by the PPP/C refer.

The PPP/C stood its ground in another release explaining that the appointments are unlawful.

“The Clerk, in discounting the PPP/C rejection of their swearing-in, observed that once a candidate on an MP list was not originally extracted from their party list and appointed as an elected Member of Parliament, the others automatically become eligible to be appointed Technocratic Ministers by the President,” the statement read.

The Opposition party argued that the Clerk’s advice was clearly unsound, since as is known unextracted list members are still recognised as elected members of the House and can be extracted and appointed as elected Members of Parliament at any time during the five-year term of the Parliament.

“It is clear that the drafters of the Constitution intended to have different criteria for the designation of other elected or eligible to be elected Members of Parliament. A judicial review of this situation is clearly indicated,” the Party said.

Budding architect of All Saints Primary tops Region 6

Travis Isaacs of All Saints Primary grabbed the top spot in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) 2015 examinations, with 525 marks out of a maximum 535 – the sixth highest overall. Isaacs, who wants to follow in his father’s footsteps and become an Architect, says his achievement is as a result of hard work and giving up television. He says extra lessons also helped along with working past papers and reading the newspapers on Sundays. The young man said he was promised many gifts and a trip to the United States if he did well at the NGSA. “They now say that I will get the trip next year because a lot of mon-

ey will have to be spent for school,” he remarked; however, the region’s top student is not perturbed by the decision,

since he has been allowed to play his video games since the examinations were finished.

Daniel Somrah, of Rose Hall Primary, with 517 points copped the second position in the region. He said he was hoping to be awarded a place at Queen’s College, but will go to Bishops’ High School. The Rose Hall Town boy, who wants to become a mechanical engineer, says his long hours of studying in the night have paid off. He added that although he was not allowed to watch cartoons as the exam approached, he was still allowed to look at television when the news was on during dinner time.

Jaheim Hudson and Cassandra Kippins of All Saints Primary occupied the third and fourth places respectively. Hudson, who wants to become a Neurologist because he is fascinated by science, gained 516 points while Kippins, who wants to become a medical doctor, achieved 515 points.

Hudson said he had to stop his night snacks and television viewing in order to spend more time studying. According to the Stanleytown student, he studied by putting in hours in the morning and the evening.

Kippins said her favourite TV programme was “Seventh Heaven” and she was told that she would have to give it up and pay more attention to

her books during the months leading up to the examinations, but she was still able to keep abreast with the series as a cousin filled her in once a week. She too studied both in the morning and the evening and took extra lessons.

Next on the list is an aspiring young journalist. Bhomini Babulall of Port Mourant Primary is the publisher of Kids News, which started a month ago and is circulated in her school. Babulall amassed 514 points to be awarded a place at Bishops’ High School.

The Adventure Village resident said she was hoping to be awarded a place at President’s College.

She said she has chosen the field of journalism because of her love for writing stories and poems. She is already putting

together material for her third edition. According to Babulall, her intention is to have the four-page journal published weekly but because of General and Regional Elections last month, the second edition was delayed.

She noted that she was happy to be the top student of her school and studied very hard for her accomplishment

and was high in praise of her class teacher Sidney Cort. “My Headteacher told me that I made her proud to have a top student in the school.”

Rehay Khemraj, of Cropper Primary, is joint fifth place with Babulall. She said she was disappointed with herself for not getting Queen’s College. However, she was able to top the school, which

over the past three years had topped the region. She said the accomplishment is as a result of hard work. “I was not allowed to watch my favourite TV show “My Little Pony” when I was studying.” She noted that her ambition is to become a cardiologist, because her eldest sister is currently studying medicine.

Topping off the 10 best performers for the region are Tyrique Welch of Rose Hall Primary (513); Charlie Adhar of New Market Primary (512); Rhae Persaud of Rose Hall Primary (511); and Devon Reid of Cumberland Primary, Faith Gajadar of St Therese Primary, Latchme Jaigobin of Cumberland Primary, and Aalya Marks of Rose Hall Primary all with 510 marks.

Bhamini Babulall

Jaheim Hutson

Cassandra Kippins

Rehay Khemraj

Jobs for the boys…

PPP/C says State militarisation, growing bureaucracy worrying

... Granger appoints ‘endorsers’ to key posts

By michael younge

President David Granger on Thursday announced the appointment of three advisers on youth, national security and environment respectively.

The Government Information Agency (GINA), in a release to the media, on Thursday said that the President has appointed former People’s National Congress (PNC) parliamentarian Aubrey Norton to the post of Presidential Adviser on Youth Empowerment; retired Guyana Defence Force (GDF)Brigadier Edward Collins as National Security Adviser and Rear Admiral (rtd) Gary Best as Adviser on Environment.

Norton had challenged Granger for the position of leader of the PNC Reform and had accused the President who was in charge of the affairs of the party, of rigging the internal elections. Norton had also heavily criticised Granger’s leadership style and the fact that he was unwilling to allow new blood to enter the party that would offer different views and perspectives on the way forward for the dying PNC. A few months later as elections were nigh upon the party, Norton disappeared, becoming mum on both the internal and external domestic political situation here. He later resurfaced on the campaign trail for the coalition campaigning on the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) ticket.

Collins, who had close links to the PNCR and par-

ticipated in their 2011 demonstrations when he was shot with pellets, retired from the GDF under the cloud of the disappearance of several high-powered weapons from that institution. Meanwhile, Best was promoted several times under the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government. Best was also elevated to the rank of Rear Admiral by former President Donald Ramotar. Days before the General and Regional Elections, he endorsed Granger’s party.

Militarisation

In a swift response, PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee said that it was clear that the things his party warned Guyanese about on the campaign trail are coming to pass. “This is just the tip of the iceberg. What you notice is happening is exactly what we said would happen that there would be a heavy influence of the former military, the military and Police Force on those appointed posts under this Government’s tenure,” Rohee remarked. He said he was not surprised that appointments such as these are made as the President was rewarding those who he saw fit with postings in his Government. Rohee also questioned whether Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, who should be one of Granger’s advisers, had an input in making recommendations for the trio to be appointed. “This appears to be the President’s prerogative. I think we have disregarded the notion that Nagamootoo

is advising the President a long time now on these appointments,” he said.

He said that Guyanese will see more appointments of this nature being made because the party in power had always been highly militarised. “We also need to pay attention to this growing white-collar bureaucracy that is being created by the new Government. It seems to have no end. Taxpayers will face the burden of financing such a big bureaucratic Government,” Rohee concluded.

Apart from Best and Collins, President Granger has also appointed his former Army colleagues, Joseph Harmon as Minister of State with responsibility for the Ministry of the Presidency; and Mark Archer was appointed as Director of Communications within the Ministry of the Presidency. He has also appointed Winston Felix, who served as Police Commissioner under the PPP/C, as Minister of Citizenship.

Guyana seeks UK’s backing against Venezuelan aggression

By Devina Samaroo

Guyana has formally enlisted the United Kingdom’s support in the ongoing maritime controversy with neighbouring Venezuela even as this country petitions the United Nations to send the decadesold issue to the International Court of Justice for a judicial settlement.

Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro on May 27, 2015 issued a decree, No 1787, extending its claims to Guyana’s territorial waters in the Atlantic Ocean off the Essequibo Coast, which includes the exploration site of ExxonMobil.

Addressing a reception hosted by the British High Commission in Guyana to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s Birthday, President David Granger used the opportunity to seek the United Kingdom’s support throughout this international crisis.

“Your Excellency, the Government of Guyana welcomes your Government’s support for Guyana’s position in the claims being generated by the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela over our settled borders… we call on all states, particularly the United Kingdom, during the regime of which the territory dispute arose and was resolved peacefully by the Arbitral Tribunal Agreement (1899), to demonstrate solidarity with Guyana and to condemn the use of threat or use of force in the settlement of international dispute,” Granger declared.

He highlighted that the territorial controversy between the two nations began since Guyana gained its independence from Great Britain in 1966 as he reflected on how the problem has escalated throughout the years.

Stymie development

President Granger noted that it has become clear that Venezuela is attempting to stymie any possible development in store for Guyana. The President highlighted that the relations between the United Kingdom and Guyana

have evolved considerably over the years and that the two countries now enjoy fruitful cooperation at the bilateral, regional and multilateral levels. Granger declared the Government of Guyana is ready and willing to work with its international partners for the development of all Guyanese.

He added that Guyana welcomes the United Kingdom’s continued collaboration in addressing global challenges which confront developed and developing nations. Also, Granger thanked the United Kingdom for its support of Guyana’s development efforts and for its advocacy of good governance and its respect for the rule of law.

In an address to the National Assembly on the issue during the opening of the 11th Parliament on Wednesday, Vice President and Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge said notwithstanding the fact that an international boundary settlement already exists in the form of the Arbitral Award of 1899, a juridical settlement in respect of Venezuela’s contention that this award is null and void appears to be the best, if not the only, way now open to Guyana. Greenidge said the Guyana Government has already approached the United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to go the route of a legal settlement because the United Nations Good Offices Process has “unhappily... signally failed to resolve the issue”. Several other diplomats had suggested this option to the previous Administration and it was under consideration.

Greenidge told the House that for the past 49 years, Guyana has been living under the sword of Venezuela’s illegal claims. He added that in order to ensure that the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are not compromised, a definite solution has to be found that will put Venezuela’s contention of nullity to rest.

The Vice President outlined that the Good Offices

Process adopted under the Geneva Agreement of 1966, which has been in place as a means of peaceful settlement between the two countries, has failed to resolve the issue and with this new decree, the contentious gap between the neighbouring countries has widened. As such, Greenidge opined that the only way forward may be through a judicial settlement. Nevertheless, the Foreign Affairs Minister expressed the Government’s willingness to continue discussions with the Venezuelan authorities as it relates to bilateral relations and pursuing a peaceful settlement within the framework of the Geneva Agreement.

Baseless decree

On the other hand, Greenidge went on to blast the neighbouring country, stating that the presidential decree issued last month is a baseless and shameless attempt to deny Guyana its legitimate right to pursue existing developmental initiatives. This latest action by Venezuela, to extend its claim over Guyana’s territorial waters, comes in the face of President Maduro’s anger over oil exploration and concessions granted by Guyana to United States company ExxonMobil, to explore some 23,000 square kilometres of the Stabroek Block.

Meanwhile, President Granger extended warm congratulations to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II as Guyana joins the United Kingdom in commemorating her 89th birthday.

British High Commissioner Gregory Quinn, during his address, once again congratulated the new Government as he reiterated that the elections were free and fair and represented the will of the people. He commended the Government’s work on national unity as he urged everyone to work to achieve this common goal. The event was held at the British High Commissioner’s residence and saw Government Ministers, members of the diplomatic community and other special invitees in attendance.

Hinds, wife made do with humble PM residence

…says new Govt in better position to fund renovation

By Dvina Samaroo

For some 22 years, former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds resided in the Prime Minister’s Residence, a prestigious heritage building on Main Street, Georgetown that was gifted to the Government of Guyana by the British High Commission sometime in the 1970s.

Today, although he acknowledges that the building is in dire need of repairs, Hinds said he and his wife had made the best of the abode without exacting from the treasury exorbitant sums to rehabilitate it. His comments come in wake of criticisms by his successor, Moses Nagamootoo who has publicly ridiculed the sorry state of the building and vowing not to live there until it was significantly upgraded.

While from the outside, the living conditions appeared glamorous, the problems due to its age were very evident to Hinds; his wife, Mrs Yvonne Hinds, and family. Nagamootoo, in explaining why he has not yet occupied the PM residence, revealed that the condition of the building was completely deplorable.

Reflecting on a tour of the PM residence, Nagamootoo said he was taken aback when he was firstly confronted with dead rats in the building and then as he went further, a sequence of problems began to be unveiled.

“I went and looked at the residence and the first thing I was confronted with were dead rats in the oven and as we go up, they got plastics on the roof to catch the water and they have these wide scotch tapes in the sitting room to

prevent the granny sugar from falling on your head, so that is the state of the place…I probably wouldn’t put my dogs there, I think they would die,” he said.

In an invited response, Hinds conceded that there were leaks in the rainy weather and ‘granny sugar’ in some areas – problems which were to be expected with such an old house. He said those problems were attended to by contractors from time to time, but were never fully resolved.

“It is true, Mrs Hinds and I improvised…I guess my inclination is to make do with what is there until such a time when the money would have been allocated for the full rehabilitation of the building,” he said. “We did have leaks, especially in the tower area and around other parts of the roof. In other areas, the wood

was dropping granny sugar. Lots of wiring was redone fairly recently, but some of the piping needs to be redone. The pipes are old and rusty. When we left the PM residence on May 17, there were no rats in the building. Pest control companies were under contract for the elimination of rats, roaches, ants and so on. I believe the heavy rain and the flooding in the yard may have chased the rats in the building and they probably ate the rat poisons placed in corners,” Hinds related.

Nagamootoo had stated that the building is in dire need of renovation and only upon completion, he may move in. “It is a heritage building… it needs repairing, fix it in its proper way, don’t try to do some slap dash job on it, take your time,” he said.

Meanwhile, Nagamootoo

also said the reason he is working out of the Ministry of Presidency and not the Office of the Prime Minister is because the latter building is in an appalling state.

Nagamootoo complained of the fact that Hinds worked from a boardroom and that the windows in the room had no curtains.

But Hinds explained that when the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) took up office in 1992, there was no Ministry of a Prime Minister.

A United Kingdom consultant reporting to the then outgoing People’s National Congress (PNC) Administration had recommended that the PM should be a Minister of the Government.

Differing with Nagamootoo, Hinds said there were venetian blinds at the windows and he chose to work from the boardroom and opted to get rid of the air conditioning unit for natural ventilation as the ocean is just outside the window.

Samuel Archibald Anthony Hinds was Guyana’s longest serving Prime Minister and also briefly served as President of Guyana in 1997, making him a veteran in the National Assembly. Hinds, an outstanding individual, was awarded Guyana’s highest national award, the Order of Excellence in 2011.

“The PM was a Minister of the Government who was designated as PM. There was never a Ministry of PM. Indeed, the PPP/C released the PM Office at the west end of the legislative building so that the building could be fully dedicated the National Assembly,” he explained. Hinds explained that as Head of the Ministry of Public Works and Communications, he occupied that office space and from there carried out the constitutionally assigned functions of the PM.

President David Granger

friday, june 12, 2015| guyanatimesgy.com

Closing dormant accounts recommended by Auditor General – PPP/C ...

Govt sensationalising practice

The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Thursday defended itself against what it called “propaganda” being peddled by the Government that it had maintained parallel treasuries and now steps were being taken to close dormant accounts which had billions of dollars that could have been used to misappropriate funds.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan is quoted in sections of the media as saying that the new Government discovered between $8 billion and $10 billion in dormant or old accounts which could have been used for or were open to “fraud”.

He made a nexus between that discovery and the need for all other public

monies to be deposited into the Consolidated Fund.

Additionally, as the audits continue, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon is also quoted in other sections of the media as saying that if any improprieties were found that Government would take legal action against those responsible of the misuse of public monies.

But the PPP/C on Thursday in a press release said that as far back as 2010 and as recently as 2014, the Government has been closing dormant bank accounts and transferring balances to the Consolidated Fund.

The Party said that in the Auditor General’s report for 2012 which was tabled in the National Assembly, the fact that Government had closed over 100 bank

accounts was publicly acknowledged and reported.

The PPP/C said “what is particularly interesting is that at the time that the PPP/C Government did this, incidentally in response to a recommendation by the Auditor General, there was a great outcry by selfappointed commentators like Christopher Ram and Anand Goolsarran suggesting that there was somehow something wrong with what the then Government was doing”.

The Party said unsurprisingly, one cannot hear a single whimper from “these self-appointed commentators when the de facto APNU/AFC continues this same exercise commenced by the PPP/C in Government”.

CELAC-EU Summit rejects blockade on Cuba, extraterritorial effects

The final declaration of the Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) and the European Union (EU), concluded in Cuba on Thursday, rejected the blockade on Cuba and its extraterritorial effects.

The document states that the provisions included in the Helms-Burton Act have caused humanitarian damage to the Cuban people and affected the development of economic relations among the Caribbean nation, the EU and other countries.

The unilateral coercive measures are contrary to the international law, the text states.

The document noted down the Special Declaration of the CELAC against the unilateral aggressions re-

garding Venezuela, adopted on January 29, and the statement of solidarity with that country approved on March 26.

The second summit between the CELAC and the EU took place for two days at the Justus Lipsius building,

which welcome the Council of the bloc, and where more than 40 Heads of States or Government and top-level delegations from 61 countries from both mechanisms participated. The final document of the event welcomed the declaration of Latin America and the Caribbean as a Peace Zone, and the decision to resolve their controversies through peaceful means. It also supported the announcement made on December 17, 2014 by Cuba’s President Raul Castro and US President Barack Obama to make progress towards the restoration of bilateral relations.

In that context, we hope to adopt measures to end the blockade, states the declaration

Interesting that Nagamootoo sees nothing wrong with breach of Accord

Dear Editor, I am forced to write you on the recent revelations in the Guyana Times newspaper in relation to the chairmanship of the coalition cabinet.

I must admit that my family and I did support the coalition in the just con-

cluded elections. Our support was based on the terms of the agreement which I thought distributed the powers of Government in a way that would see a better more united Guyana. It is now interesting to know now that Mr Nagamootoo sees nothing

wrong with the breach of the agreement.

He sees nothing wrong now with him not chairing cabinet or the many other aspects of the agreement being breached. Are we going to see a repeat of the UF and PNC coalition?

Mr Nagamotoo, every-

thing is wrong with a breach of the agreement, unless you don't care about the many who voted for the coalition based on the agreement. Is it that power is now the essence and in this case, personal power.

Mr Nagamootoo’s dismissal of the breach of this

agreement is arrogant and shows little regard for people like my family who believed in the letters and words of that agreement.

Mr Nagamootoo cannot see the wrong because he is now blinded by the glamour of the office he now occupies. Sadly people like myself and already sealed our faith when we voted on May 11. God bless Guyana and hopefully just hopefully one day our dear country will be blessed with a genuine third force that can bring real balance to our political system.

Ally Mohamed

Indian arrival observed in NYC

Dear Editor, Hundreds of celebrants turned out for the 30th Annual Indian Arrival celebrations held at Smokey Park, New York, last Sunday afternoon to commemorate the 177th Anniversary since Indians first arrived in the Caribbean.

The Indo-Caribbean Federation, founded in 1985, hosted a cultural variety concert featuring a live band, a female and male singing competition also a female dancing competition, and the feature event which was beauty pageant to crown the Miss ICF Queen 2015.

The idea of observing "Indian Arrival Day" in New York was initiated by a group of Indo-Caribbeans in 1984.

The Federation was founded as a loose alliance of dozens of organizations – an idea that conceived by Bhanu Dwarika, Baytoram Ramharack, Ramesh Kalicharran, Isardat Ramdehal, the late Gora Singh and me, among others.

They launched the IndoCaribbean Federation and started an annual concert

featuring Indian culture beginning in May 1985 and celebrated annually since then with a cultural variety concert in Richmond Hill Queens New York.

The Federation is today led by President Ralph Tamesh whose team planned and organized the commemoration of

Several businesses and individuals sponsored prizes, provided food and underwrote the costs associated with staging the concert.

Many volunteers, not the least being this writer, assisted with organizing the park space (with chairs, police barricades) for the concert and procuring re-

Sunita Sookram and Son Son Sonipersaud. Sound system was provided by Toro Sounds and music by Sansar Sangeet Orchestra. It was an entertainment packed and fun-filled concert; many in the crowd sang, danced and clapped to the beat of classical ever green songs, several non-In-

sets, Nehru suits). The winners for each competition were: male singing Rasheed Azim, Bridgmohan, Mohamed Jabar; female dancing Nikki Khan, Divya Raghubir, Wanita Ramnarine; female singing Kumarie Gosine, Phulmattee Yankarran, Mala Randhanie; winner

the historic occasion. The President applauded the work of his Executives . Several local artistes performed for free to entertain the large crowd.

freshment for artistes. The program began after 13:00h and concluded after 19:00h. Among the emcees were Robert Mohamed and Roy Singh, Imran Ahmad,

dians graced the concert enjoying the music and dances. Many in the audience were dressed in traditional attire (Punjabi suits, Shalwar Kameez, kurtha

concert put out a special colored magazine publication highlighting the achievements of the organization and featuring articles on Indian immigration. The Tamesh, praised the hard work of the organizers in making the celebration a magnificent success.

He applauded the artistes for their participation and promoting Indian culture. He thanked those who assisted in putting the event together and all the sponsors. A commendation award was given to Tamesh by the Queens Borough President Melinda Katz and presented by Mohamad Hack the Community Coordinator.

Tamesh moved a vote of thanks to the many persons and organizations that helped to make the event a success, including refreshment from Kaieteur Restaurant, Sybils’s Bakery, Bamboo Garden Restaurant and Coffee Distributing Corp.

Vishnu Bisram

The

of the beauty pageant and new Miss ICF Queen 2015 is Nikki Khan, first runner up Lilly Bharat, second runner up Victoria Sookhoo.

organizers of the

Cuba's President Raul Castro

Executives of the Indo-Caribbean Federation and competition winners

“50 Shades of Dance”

Come Saturday evening, three will be lights, cameras and several groups of energetic dancers ready to take to the stage as the Classique Dance Company presents “50 Shades of Dance” in celebration of its 15th spectacular year in the performing arts.

The set and costumes are ready and so are the more than 75 dancers who have been rehearsing for this one night that will be celebrated in grand style. One night that will allow the dancers to express their emotions through several routines. The moves

H&T Theatre Arts Group will be staging “Diplomatic Blow” on June 27-28, at the National Cultural Centre. It is a hilarious comedy written and directed by Ronald Hollingsworth; one of Guyana’s most celebrated playwrights.

This production will be co-produced and co-directed by accomplished Dramatist/Director/Producer Sheron Cadogan Taylor.

The play features a local Guyanese

The countdown has begun for one of the most exiting shows to come to Guyana on Caricom weekend and the cast is all ready to entertain to the max.

Promoters have confirmed that early bird tickets for the show will be available from Monday, June 15 at several locations in Berbice, Linden and Georgetown.

The shows are slated for July 4 at the Mackenzie Sports

playboy who meets and develops an inappropriate relationship with an overseas-based Diplomat. This relationship provided him with the opportunity to meet and mingle with people of higher social standing, and he soon turns his back upon his friends and his fiancée whom he had faithfully promised to wed.

Things however turn sour as events would give credence to the idiom “all that glitters is not gold”. The cast includes

Club ground, Linden; July 5 at the National Cultural Centre and July 6 (Caricom Day) at the New Amsterdam Technical Institute (NATI).

Early bird tickets for the Linden show will be available at the office of the sports club ground while tickets for the Berbice show are available at 4D Bar, Tuckberg, New Amsterdam and Candy Shop, New Amsterdam Market. Tickets for Georgetown will he

Leza Singh, Paul

The Production Manager is Mark LukeEdwards. This dynamic cast is working assiduously and is hoping to set the Cultural Centre stage ablaze on those nights. Tickets will be released shortly and will be available at the National Cultural Centre.

sold at the National Cultural Centre.

“Shebada and Friends” were in Guyana a few years ago when Episode 1 and 2 of the theatrical production “Bashment Granny” were held and they will be back for the brand new episode from July 4-6.

“Bashment Granny 3” was performed to a sold out audience in London, England where they performed with

excellence, thus winning the hearts of the Brits.

Keith Ramsay is a Jamaican actor and comedian, best known for his appearances in “roots” plays, but is popularly known as “Shebada”. Guyanese who intend on being a part of the audience are advised to brace themselves for one of the biggest comedy extravaganzas to rock these shores.

and the music are bound to keep you at the edge of your seats for the two-hour production.

“50 Shades of Dance” will comprise dance pieces performed by several other dance groups from around the country, making the production as diverse as it can get. These dance groups include Jewan Ka Nritya Dance Group, the National Dance Company, the National School of Dance, Let’s Dance Studios, Dance Fanatics, Happy Feet and most obviously, the Classique Dance Company. The show is set to commence at 20:00h and for

the first half, patrons will be blown away by the diverse dance pieces by the other groups. After intermission, however, it will be a full hour of dance routines by the talented and well groomed dancers of Classique Dance Company. Apart from the dance routines, Tennicia De Freitas will be spicing things up with her melodious voice and a segment of spoken word by Nuriyyih Gerrard. Tickets for the event cost $2000 each and are available at the National Cultural Centre and from Classique dancers.

After her amazing performance last year, Grace Hamilton, better known as “Spice” will be heading to Club 704 for the “Spicy Saturday Party” on Saturday, June 27.

Hamilton was born on August 6 in Jamaica and grew up in Old Breaton, St Catherine, where she attended Breaton Junior High School, and later St Catherine High School.

Throughout her career, she has performed at various stage shows, both locally and overseas, the biggest of which was Sting 2005.

She is currently signed with Madhouse Records and has also collaborated with Jimmy Cliff on one of his albums with the hit single “I Want I Do I

Get”. Her most current song “Fight Over Man” was released on the Madhouse Label and has been creating some buzz in the Caribbean and further afield.

Spice is no stranger to Guyana since she has performed here many times at the Guyana National Stadium and inside Club 704 and Gravity Lounge. On June 27, she is expected to create a whirlwind with several of her new hits and will be accompanied by the sounds of Deejay Tallest, Selector Diamond and Gully Ras from Fusion Sounds. The event is sponsored by Fly Jamaica. Admission to the event is $2000 and doors will be opened at 21:30h.

Leslyn Bobb-Semple, Mark Kazim, Sean Thompson, Clemencio Goddette, Nirmala Narine,

Budnah and Alana Craigen.

6 to vie for Miss Jamzone Guyana 2015

As we count down to Jamzone, slated for August 14-23, six Guyanese beauties have been selected to compete for the coveted title of Miss Jamzone Guyana 2015. The local leg of the pageant is slated for July 5 at Hits and Jams Water World aback of Princess Hotel, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Those vying for the title are Radiante Frank, Cardella Hamilton, Eksi Edwards, Treasure James, Carlene Waithe and Onica Rose. Prior to the pageant, the delegates will participate in an interview segment where they will be questioned on several aspects of Guyana’s tourism industry since the pageant is tourism centred.

On pageant night, the contestants will have an opportunity to introduce themselves via a three-minute presentation on one of Guyana’s tourism destinations. This will be followed by the swimsuit segment, comprising a regular swimwear and the fantasy swimwear after which the delegates will clash head on

Meet the contestants

for the evening gown segment and finally the intelligence segment.

One lucky young lady will capture the crown and win the opportunity of a lifetime to represent her country at the international leg of the Miss Jamzone Pageant which will be held during the hosting of Jamzone Summer Break.

Contestant number one – Radiante Frank Radiante Frank is a brilliant young woman with a passion for life and all things artistic, and she is just as radiant as her name suggests. Today, at 23, Radiante is quite accomplished.

She is a graduate of the University of Guyana with a degree in Communication Studies, an advanced student of the Classique Dance School, an English and Theatre Arts teacher at Queens College, a budding actress at the Theatre Guild of Guyana, a brilliant poet and an avid dreamer.

With confidence and poise, 24-year-old Cardella Hamilton is a country girl but a sassy city girl at heart. She is a freelance model, as well as a final year student at the University of Guyana, majoring in Public Management. She intends on using her proficiency to pursue her dream of becoming an entrepreneur.

Eksi Edwards strongly believe in the value of family, love and friendship. Born under the star of Virgo, she views herself as an exceptional and extraordinary young woman since she has always lived her life by the philosophy, “Never walk when it’s possible to run”. Academically she studied Sociology as a prelaw course at the University of Guyana with the hopes of reading for her master’s in Law Management in 2016.

number four – Treasure James Born with a passion for helping others, she finds herself each day wanting nothing more than to change the world for the greater good. Some may say that she is a city girl but really, one can find her humble beginnings in the beautiful community of Mabaruma, North West District, Region One. Currently a medical student, she aims to be a role model for youths, especially for the young women of Guyana. She is the reigning Miss Texila University.

For this week’s personality profile, we present to you a young Guyanese cricketer who can be described as humble, pleasant and a hard hitter of the ball.

Nineteen-year-old Tagenarine Chanderpaul also called “Brandon” was born under the auspicious sign of Gemini to his parents West Indies Batsman, Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Annelie Adams. He is the eldest of four siblings; his younger siblings being Bradley, Ciara and Brendon.

This youngster completed his secondary education at the Marian Academy where he secured ten subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC). He grew up in the small farming village of Unity on the East Coast of Demerara which he proudly calls home.

As a young child growing up, he had an interest in cricket all due to the fact that his father is one of the best cricketers Guyana has ever produced and he wanted to follow suit, thus keeping the glory of cricket in the family. Growing up was simple with his grandfather by his side.

At age six, his grandfather would throw balls at him every afternoon after school. He recalled starting to

number five – Carlene Waithe Carlene is a loving, enthusiastic and outgoing individual. Healthy living has always been an integral part of her life. She obtained a Certificate in Athletic from the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) in 2006 and uses this knowledge to help teach children how to be healthy and stay fit with the experience she gained over the years from her athletic training.

Contestant number six – Onica

Tagenarine

become a senior player on the West Indies Cricket Team. His role model is no other than his father whom he described as “determined” and someone who puts in a lot of work when it comes to practice and training. “By seeing this, it make me want to be more like my father”, the young cricketer stated.

His successes include his 104 not out against the Leewards during the Under-19 tournament in 2013, 112 against India in 2014, 132 not out against Trinidad and Tobago in 2014 in the Under-19 tournament, and 103 not out against Barbados in the Under-19 tournament in 2014.

His other accomplishment in the sport was performing well during the Under 19 World Cup tournament in 2013 and he was named Under-19 Cricketer of the Year. He would have also received an award from the West Indies Players Association for his contribution to cricket in the Caribbean. His advice to those who would want to excel in the sport is to stay focused and work hard. He noted that cricket is just not a sport but a lucrative job that presents lots of opportunities. “Nothing comes

Down to earth, natural and committed, Onica has a positive spirit which touches people in a real way. Growing up in the countryside, she discovered her love for outdoor activities. She was a dancer, tennis player, cricketer and played other sports during her school life, all while keeping her academics in check.

Onica spent the summer of 2014 teaching Mathematics to remedial students of the Campbellville Secondary School as part of the Cognitive Initiative of the Benab Foundation.

easy without determination and dedication and more so, with a good frame of mind”, he disclosed. When he is not on the field, he loves to watch television, play video games and listen to music among other things a typical 19-yearold would do. He does not have a favourite colour but loves to eat cookup and mutton curry with dhall puri.

Contestant number two – Cardella Hamilton

Contestant number three – Eksi Edwards

Contestant

Contestant

Rose

Rerun of “Nothing to Laugh About 8” for Sunday

Arerun of the theatrical spectacular, “Nothing to Laugh About 8” is set for Sunday evening at the National Cultural Centre. Those who would have missed the first set of shows two weeks ago have a change to see the entire production once again but only for one night.

The cast are all ready once again to perform before their fans and there may be some surprises during the presentation.

As usual, it will be a showcase of high quality comedy by a group of seasoned comedians who are all set to thrill the audience from the beginning through the ending of the show.

Patrons are advised to

iLuminate Dancers to

perform live at Club 704 in August

The iLuminate Dancers were dubbed “the best new act in America” during their run on America’s Got Talent in 2011.

If you did not see them on America’s Got Talent in 2011, maybe you have heard about them through one of their international appearances or saw their Off-Broadway dance show at New World Stages in NY, New York or browsing through YouTube.

No matter how you learnt about them, their shows are

dancers in electrified glowin-the-dark suits to perform choreographed dances and illusions on a darkened stage.

iLuminate is the brainchild of Miral Kotb, a woman whose true passions in life are dance and software engineering, which is why you will see her both manning the keyboard and dancing on stage in our archive of video performances.

In 2009, Miral combined her two passions to create our patented iLuminate technology, the tool that

nothing short of spectacular and Guyanese will be in for a treat come August when they perform live at Club 704, Lamaha and Albert Streets, Georgetown.

“iLuminate is not just a dance show, they are a company of five based on the fusion of technology and dance.

The group’s goal is to create a visual display unlike anything that anyone has seen, using

enables performers, choreographers, engineers, technicians, stylists and artistic directors to produce explosive performances with customized wireless lighting programmes.

The results are extraordinary lighting effects choreographed with phenomenal dance moves that take viewers on an exhilarating ride. Fans are asked to look out for the date when it is announced.

Payless Variety Store, Elegance Jewellery and Pawnshop, Gizmos and Gadgets, and the National Cultural

“Princess Star”

auditions kick off Saturday night at Club Next

As the date for the first round of auditions for the “Princess Star” Reality Show draws near, the excitement is surely mounting among amateur singers who are all gearing for the first audition on Saturday evening.

This of course will kick off inside Club Next within the Princess International Hotel environs at 20:00h sharp. To date, 30 singers are rearing and ready to go, each vowing to demolish the competition and make the work quite hard for the judges.

To ensure that each singer is give a fair shot at winning, promoters have decided to eliminate two persons at every round of the event, leaving the fortunate performers who will face off at the said location in August.

Meanwhile, the organisers have announced that since the competition has attracted the attention of karaoke singers, the first session will be done in the traditional karaoke fashion.

Contrary to former reports that there was a ‘no age limit’ for entrants, promoters have announced that contestants will have to be 18 years and over since the segments of the event will be hosted at a nightclub.

Already claws are unsheathed and much juicy rivalry is brewing among some poised for auditioning since they are all very talented singers. While karaoke enthusiast Lashaun Simpson is being touted as the favourite by john public to win this competition, she will however have to withstand the ‘stampeding vocals’ of folks like DJ Mambo, Rawle Boodie, Orin Trotman, Sharon Jacobs and many others.

Dark horses to watch for are Iodelle Gilbert, Michael Spencer, Melinda Thomas, ‘Junior’, and Wayne Bailey who are all very gifted performers. Those shortlisted will be

allowed to choose their own songs for the first leg of the competition, but the selection of songs will be at the judges’ discretion as the competition continues. The ‘Princess Star’ show will run for a two-month

period before the eventual winner is declared.

At the end of the competition, the eventual winner will take home cash prizes, bragging rights and a recording deal with one of the top recording

for registration.

wear loose fitting clothing, since it will be more comfort-

them rolling on the floor of the NCC with laughter.

The cast includes Lyndon “Jumbie” Jones,

Henry Rodney, Michael Ignatius, Kirwyn Mars, Chris Gopaul, Clemencio Goddette, Leza “Radika” Singh, Mark “Chiney man” Kazim, Leslyn BobbSemple, Gerard Gilkes, Simone Persaud, Alana Craigen, Leon Cummings, Johann David, and Brian Goodman. The show’s Stage Manager is the ever efficient Sonia Yarde.

Tickets for the shows cost $1000, $1500 and $2000, and are being sold at Giftland OfficeMax, Nigel’s Supermarket,

Women’s hurdles continues to be close affair, CampbellBrown finishes second

In a thrilling 100m hurdles race at the Diamond League meeting in Oslo where a number of athletes cleared the final hurdle in close proximity to each other, Jasmin Stowers continues to prove she shouold be in the conversation when the World Championships of Athletics gets under way in August.

Stowers, who ended in a photo finish with fellow American Brianna Rollins won in 12.84 seconds, the same as her vanquished foe/ teammate.

Queen Harrison was third in 13.02, while a returning Lolo Jones was fourth in 13.14.

Kilty on the outside to take second.

Steven Gardiner collected his first Diamond League points in the men’s 400m after recording a personalbest time of 44.64secs. The Bahamian showed great power on the final bend and kicked home on the straight.

In the women’s 1500m race, Britain’s Laura Muir was rewarded for a brave run in which she led from the outset by and won in a time of four minutes and 39 seconds - a season-best time.

Fresh off his victory in front of home support in Birmingham, Olympic champion Greg Rutherford extended his lead in the men’s long jump with a winning distance of 8.25m.

World’s fastest man

Usain Bolt may have not have set the track alight last year, but don’t feel too sorry for the global sprint superstar as Forbes reports that he still pocketed around J$2.4 billion (US$21 million) last year.

Hampered injuries, Bolt’s bad year at the office, saw him ranked at 73rd on the 2015 list of the world’s highest-paid athletes.

The list was topped by US boxer Floyd Mayweather, who earned an estimated US$300 million perhaps a senseless conversion into local currencies.

Campbell Brown, who finished a close second, clocked 11.08.

The Jamaican veteran got off to a bad start and had to fight her way back through the field but found Ahoure too strong to overhaul.

France’s Christophe Lemaitre has struggled for form in recent times, but gave a timely reminder of his talent with a season-best 20.21secs run in the men’s 200m - leaving him in a four-way tie in the Diamond League standings.

The pack was congested coming round the bend, but Lemaitre burst clear on the stretch to celebrate his 25th birthday in style. Anaso Jobodwana held off Richard

In the women’s 100, Murielle Ahoure held off Veronica Campbell-Brown to win the the event in 11.03 seconds.

Robert Urbanek claimed first place in the discus, while China’s Zhang Guowei won the high jump.

Caterine Ibarguen made it 12 points from 12 in the women’s triple jump with a distance on 14.68 metres, while shot putt leader Christina Schwanitz extended her lead with a throw of 20.14m. Israel’s Marharyta Dorozhon threw a national record 64.56m to win the javelin.

With his on track earnings listed at US$250, 000 per race, the majority of the athlete’s earnings, not surprisingly, came off the track with global clothing and sportswear giants, leading the way in a deal worth US$10 million. The deal will go through to the 2017 World Championships.

Listed among some of the sprinter’s other sponsors are

Women’s World Cup…

The women’s 5000m was dubbed as a world-record attempt for Genzebe Dibaba. The Ethiopian did not manage the feat, but still claimed victory. Jairus Birech was victorious in the men’s 3000m steeplechase. (Digicel Sportsmax) Bolt made J$2.4 billion last

England wicketkeeper Matt Prior retires from cricket

England wicketkeeper Matt Prior has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.

The 33-year-old, who won 79 Test caps, helped England to three Ashes series victories between 2009 and 2013.

The Sussex keeper has not played any cricket since July 2014 because of a recurring Achilles tendon injury.

“I was expecting to be fit for the 2015 season,” Prior said. “Unfortunately, this has proved impossible, and I have now had to reach this decision.”

He added: “I feel honoured to have played for Sussex and England as many times as I have and shared so many great times with both teams. I also feel privileged to have been involved in an era of such success for English cricket.

“I have always tried to play with pride and passion and have a deep belief that the team will always come first. Although I haven’t achieved all the goals I had set out to, I feel immensely proud of what I have done in my career. Sadly it is now time to move on.”

Matt Prior

Prior became the first England wicketkeeper to score a century on debut, hitting an unbeaten 126 at Lord’s against West Indies in 2007.

He leaves the game with a Test batting average of 40.18, the highest of any England wicketkeeper to claim more than 100 dismissals and the fourth best of all-time behind only Kumar Sangakkara, Andy Flower and Adam Gilchrist.

The South African-born right-hander was named England’s player of the year in 2013 after saving the final Test and series against New Zealand by batting for fourand-a-half hours on his way

to an unbeaten century.

By that time, he had been appointed vice-captain and attempted to win a fourth Ashes series in Australia in 2013-14.

But his form dipped - he made only one fifty in eight Tests - and was dropped for the final two Tests of the 5-0 whitewash in Australia.

Despite his bludgeoning batting style, Prior could not replicate his Test form in one-day internationals, averaging 24.18 runs in 68 matches.

In December 2014, he cofounded the new professional One Pro Cycling team, saying cycling was a “huge passion”. (BBC Sport)

year

Gatorade and watch manufacturers Hublot. Athletes from 24 different countries make up the top 100, although Americans dominate the list with 62 en-

tries thanks to soaring salaries in baseball, basketball and football. Needless to say, Bolt was the only Caribbean athlete listed in the top

Germany held to draw by Norway

Two-time champions Germany were held to a Women’s World Cup draw by Norway in Ottawa, Canada.

Having thrashed Ivory Coast 10-0 in their first match, Germany took just six minutes to go ahead through Anja Mittag’s dinked finish.

But Maren Mjelde equalised for Norway in the second half with a beautifully curled free-kick into the top corner.

Germany’s Celia Sasic had a header saved and despite the side having 27 shots, were unable to find

3 Austrian

the winner.

Germany hit double figures in their opening Group B game and dominated the first half, but could only follow it up by taking a point.

Ranked one in the world, Germany have been touted as one of the favourites for the tournament and won the title in 2003 and 2007.

Having collected four points from their first two games, they top the table on goal difference ahead of Norway.

Both teams are now expected to go through to the last-16, after the Norwegians beat Thailand 4-0 in their first game, with

the team finishing second in the group going on to face the second-placed team in England’s group.

Mittag bagged a hattrick in the first match and quickly got on the scoresheet again, netting from close range after Ingrid Hjelmseth failed to hold on to Dzsenifer Marozsan’s shot.

Despite being on top, the Germans were unable to add to their solitary goal and were punished when Saskia Bartusiak brought down Isabel Herlovsen on the edge of the area, and Mjelde stepped up to stroke in the equaliser. (BBC Sport)

swimmers injured in bus collision

A15-year-old Austrian synchronised swimmer suffered “severe injuries” when she and two other teenagers were in a collision with a bus in the athletes’ village at the European Games in Baku.

Vanessa Sahinovic sustained multiple fractures and a head injury - but is not in a life-threatening condition.

Luna Pajer, 15, gained injuries to her arms and has also returned to Vienna for specialist treatment.

The Austrian Olympic Committee (AOC) said the team would still compete.

“It’s a very, very sad day,” said Dr Karl Stoss, AOC president. “It’s a tough day for the team. Sporting motives and goals are not important at this moment.”

Event organisers said the matter was now being investigated by police.

Team doctor Dr Robert Kandelhard accompanied Sahinovic and Pajer back to Vienna. The private jet belonging to Azerbaijan president Ilham Aliyev was used

to fly the injured athletes back to their homeland.

“They have already landed and can get the best care there,” added Stoss. “I’m not a medical expert but the treatment has been really good so far.

“It’s a real shock for us and tough to motivate the team to focus on sport.”

The AOC said the collision happened at 08:30 local time on Thursday, when the athletes were walking on the pavement in the Olympic village.

Verena Breit, 15, was also injured in the incident and she spent an hour in

hospital in Baku with a thigh injury, but has now returned to the athletes’ village.

A Baku 2015 spokesperson said: “This is a terrible accident, and at this time our thoughts and concerns are for the athletes involved, their families and the remainder of the Austrian delegation.

“The incident is now a matter of a police investigation and until that process is complete we will be making no further statement.”

The inaugural European Games feature 20 sports, 16 of which will be included in next year’s Olympics, and begin on 12 June. Meanwhile, British newspaper the Guardian claims it has been banned from entering Azerbaijan to cover the event.

It says the decision “appears to be linked” to its report on the country’s preparations for the event, which contained criticism of the government’s “clampdown on freedom of speech and any political opposition”.

(BBC Sport)

Vanessa Sahinovic

100.

(Digicel Sportsmax)

Usain Bolt

Jasmin Stowers

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Shabazz calls for stakeholder approach

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz believes a stakeholder approach is what is required to move Guyana’s football forward, and moreso help the Golden Jaguars to achieve a place in the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Shabazz made the comments moments after arriving via a LIAT flight at the Ogle International Airport from St Vincent on Thursday morning where the Golden Jaguars drew with the host nation in the World Cup qualifier.

The Golden Jaguars started their World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-2 draw against St Vincent at the Arnos Vale Playfield on Wednesday afternoon, with goals from Brandon Beresford and Ricky Shakes.

While lauding his players for their brave performance, Coach Shabazz called on all Guyanese to think of the Golden Jaguars as a team representing the entire nation and all the people of the land, regardless of their creed, colour or political persuasion.

A stakeholder approach,

the Coach basically outlined, is what is needed to help the team to move from point A to B. Citizens taking ownership of the Golden Jaguars is what Shabazz wants to ultimately see.

“I think the message for us is that it’s not a football thing that’s going to advance from this tournament – it’s a country and everybody in this country must feel a part of this thing,” a candid Shabazz remarked.

He added, “The Government just can’t stay aloof and the business sector stay aloof and the rest of the society, and expect Guyana to just go forward. It’s not a ghost. Allah has decided that the Government must play a role, [and] that the people must play a role by coming to the game to be part of this team. This is not the GFF [Guyana Football Federation] national team; this is the Guyana national team. It has a difference. This is the team of the nation; this is not the team of a few people.”

The Golden Jaguars relinquished the lead on two occasions against St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Shabazz is convinced it was

“King of the Hard Court” Tournament

the work of some unseen force trying to send a strong message to all concerned that the time is now to work together in the best interest of the team’s progression in the qualifiers.

“That drawn result to me is an opportunity to tie the whole nation into the thing. The Government, all the business community who don’t want to give a dollar, except for the sponsors that we have on board, and the people who just want to sit down there and expect success to come. No, success doesn’t come like that. Success comes with full participation of everybody, so that once we advance, it’s Guyana that advance, not the GFF or anything like that,” Shabazz emphasised. Meanwhile, skipper Christopher Nurse said it was imperative Guyanese fill the National Stadium on Sunday for the return game against St Vincent, noting that the Golden Jaguars have not lost to a Caribbean nation at home since 2007. Sunday’s game will kick off at 19:00h and admission to the venue is $2000.

The GFF is urging patrons to wear yellow in support of the Golden Jaguars.

GABA postpones finals

The Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) has postponed the finals of the “King of the Hard Court” Tournament which was set to take place on June 7 at the Burnham Hard Court, Middle and Carmichael Streets. The decision by GABA was made in order to facil-

itate the players who will be representing Guyana at the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Championships. Both teams in the finals; Dynas Ravens and the Trinity Grid Holding Pacesetters have some of their top players in the national unit that will be part of the CBC Championships

set for the British Virgin Islands (BVI) from June 15.

While the team have not left as yet, the players are in training camp with their main focus on the CBC Championships.

The “King of the Hard Court” Tournament has now been rescheduled to June 27 at the Burnham Hard Court.

Football promoter Kashif Muhammad (backing camera) makes a point to officials of the GFF/ Golden Jaguars set-up, as well as former GFF President Franklin Wilson (centre) moments after the team touched down at Ogle Airport on Thursday

GFF/CONCACAF to host Integrity Workshop

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) will be hosting an Integrity Workshop, the first of its kind in Guyana, directed specifically for clubs in the upcoming Elite League and football administrators.

CONCACAF Integrity Officers will be in Guyana to conduct the two-day workshop, which starts today at the Carifesta Sports Complex at 10:00h and con-

cludes on Saturday at the National Racquet Centre.

On the opening day, CONCACAF officials will meet with the eight clubs participating in the GFF Elite League on an individual basis, and also with the Guyana Senior National Men’s Football Team.

The referees and affiliates of the GFF will meet on the closing day of the

workshop, which is to educate members of the football family about the facets of match-fixing, with the objective of ultimately protecting the game’s participants from organised criminals determined to influence results.

In July 2014, CONCACAF’s 41 Member Associations (MAs) received information about the CONCACAF Integrity Programme and were urged to request a workshop that would be conducted by a CONCACAF Integrity Officer.

With the GFF Elite League on the horizon, the CONCACAF Integrity Workshop will place emphasis on multiple key topics related to match manipulation, including techniques used by match fixers to contact players and referees, tactics to resist approaches and the CONCACAF Integrity Reporting Mechanism.

The Workshop will provide two different channels for individuals to report match manipulation incidents in a confidential and anonymous manner. Through this system, any individual within the CONCACAF region has the ability to file safely a confidential, anonymous report electronically or via a telephone hotline. Additionally, the CONCACAF Code of Ethics will be thoroughly reviewed. The Code of Ethics prohibits behaviour that damages or could damage football’s integrity.

It precludes members of the football fraternity from betting on football matches (directly or indirectly), being involved with gambling companies and recommends not entering betting shops and also obligates the reporting of possible matchfixing incidents and cooperation in any CONCACAF investigation.

Amazon Warriors begin...

Hooper, a former West Indies captain, outlined what would take place over the next few days in terms of preparation for the June 20 start of the competition, noting that the foreign-based players will link up with the squad on Sunday.

“We’ve had a few meetings this year, and one of things I’ve been encouraging the lads to do is to be very proactive, especially the bowlers. Also there has been a greater focus or emphasis on execution of skills. Unfortunately, today [Thursday], we couldn’t get to the nets, but we managed to do some things on the grass, so hopefully tomorrow [today], some of the things we discussed in our study session we will have a chance to have the nets tomorrow and have a hit,” the new Head Coach explained.

As part of the preparatory camp, the Guyana Amazon Warriors are set to play two games next week against a Guyana Select XI, and according to Hooper, they will be using the matches as simulation exercises.

“Leading into those games, we’ve got a couple of scenarios planned, so, obviously, we will deal with the first five overs, the next 10 and we finish up with the last five overs with some specific targets in mind we try to achieve,” he outlined.

Hooper said that while he was very much enthused to return to his homeland to share his knowledge and ex-

Smith’s

pertise, he was disappointed at the absence of an indoor cricket facility at the Providence venue, which would have been vital to the team’s preparation during this rainy season.

“This is the first time I’ve been to this ground, and I know we had a lot of rain, [so] it would have been nice if we have an indoor facility after we finish our warmup, we go straight inside and have a good net practice session. After all, we know this is Guyana, there is plenty of rain, especially at this time of the year,” Hooper observed.

Hooper, who previously worked in the now defunct Antigua Hawksbills set-up, said during a previous interview that the Guyana Amazon Warriors squad is a balanced one, and he is confident the franchise can go one step further and win the

title.

The other franchises set to compete in the June 20 to July 26 showpiece are reigning champions Barbados Tridents, Jamaica Tallawahs, St Lucia Zouks, St Kitts Patriots and Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel.

The Guyana Amazon Warriors and the Barbados Tridents are down to play the opening match at the Kensington Oval in Barbados at 18:00h.

Guyana Amazon Warriors squad is: Denesh Ramdin, Sunil Narine, Lendl Simmons, Tillekaratne Dilshan, Lasith Malinga, Thisara Perera, Brad Hodge, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Assad Fudadin, Devendra Bishoo, Veerasammy Permaul, Christopher Barnwell, Ronsford Beaton, Umar Akmal, Trevon Griffith and Paul Wintz.

century aids Australia...

Taylor troubled the righthand batsmen too, beating Smith and Clarke with perfectly pitched outswingers and then hurrying them into defence with skiddy deliveries that zipped in.

While Taylor tied Australia down, however, Roach was too loose, too often. He had given Marsh room to play several drives through cover and a halfvolley on the pads allowed Smith his first runs off his 11th delivery. Roach’s costliest error, though, came when he had Clarke caught and bowled in the first over of his second spell. Clarke was walking off for 3 when replays showed Roach had over-stepped; Australia would have been 22 for 3.

West Indies slumped after that and Clarke cut free, driving and pulling Holder for four, before lofting Roach for six and steering him to the third-man boundary. Roach would end the first session with figures of 7-040-0.

Ramdin brought on Permaul at the start of the second hour and the leftarm spinner struggled against two nimble batsmen. Smith stepped out and lofted Permaul for four to longoff in his first over; Clarke did the same but for six over long-on in his second. Later on, using his crease expertly, Smith stepped out to flick, then stayed back to cut, and

SCOREBOARD

AUSTRALIA

(b4, lb1, nb3) 8 TOTAL (4 wkts, 90 overs) 258 To bat: +B Haddin, M Johnson, M Starc, N Lyon, J Hazlewood.

Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Warner), 2-16 (Marsh), 3-134 (Clarke), 4-210 (Voges) Bowling: Taylor 15-8-18-3 (nb1), Roach 15-2-65-0 (nb2), Holder 16-2-47-1, Permaul 24-7-84-0, Brathwaite 19-239-0, Blackwood 1-1-0-0.

stepped out to flick again for three boundaries in an over.

Australia scored 91 in the first session, and Clarke began the second by taking the first runs off Taylor, a flick through midwicket in his seventh over. Even as the ball grew older, Taylor remained economical and got the occasional outswinger to bounce sharply past the outside edge.

As Clarke slowed down - he made 17 off his last 66 balls - Smith took a shine to Permaul, stepping out to hit a brace of straight sixes that brought up Australia’s 100 and his half-century. Run accumulation had appeared

risk free when Clarke, in an attempt to pick up his pace again, drove loosely at Holder and edged behind on 47.

Nothing deterred Smith, though. He kept moving across his stumps to work the quicks through the leg side, and attacked Permaul often by stepping out of his crease. His progress was smooth, and under his charge, Australia made 79 in the second session. With Smith was Adam Voges, who got going by cutting Holder twice for four before dropping anchor to blunt the West Indies attack.

Soon after tea, Smith punched Permaul through cover and celebrated his hundred, and Voges also stepped out to clout the spinner for six. Permaul’s ineffectiveness and the lack of options made Ramdin bowl part-time spinner Kraigg Brathwaite for 19 overs: he had only bowled 82 balls previously in his 21-Test career. Brathwaite, however, should have dismissed Smith, but Darren Bravo grassed the edge off the cut at first slip. Smith was on 109 at the time, and with Taylor having just dismissed Voges, Australia would have been 218 for 5. Instead, Smith ended the day unbeaten on 135, having added 48 with Shane Watson to lead his team into a position of strength. (Cricinfo)

Batsman Assad Fudadin gestures during Thursday’s session at the National Stadium

Guyoil’s Father’s Day cycling set for Sunday

Local riders will command the West Demerara roadways on Sunday when national cycling coach Hassan Mohamed stages the 16th annual Guyana Oil Company (Guyoil) 50-mile road race in observance of Father’s Day.

The race will commence at 08:00h in front of the Wales Police Station, and proceed to Bushy Park, Parika, before returning to the Demerara Harbour Bridge for the finish.

The top six finishers in the Open category, and the top three in the Junior, Veteran, Mountain Bike and Female categories will be rewarded, while the first Over60 rider to cross the line will be recognised for his/her effort. Eight prime prizes will also be up for grabs.

A new champion will be crowned this year, as last

year’s winner Raynauth Jeffrey is currently recuperating from a broken collar bone he suffered in an

Assuria Insurance 5-over knockout tournament

RHTY&SC names strong Bakewell

A, B teams

Plans for the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) Silver Jubilee Anniversary’s Assuria Insurance five-over knockout tournament are forging ahead with the host club declaring two strong teams for the much-anticipated second-division tournament on June 21. The tournament is being sponsored by Assuria Insurance, which would be opening its Berbice branch soon in the Rose Hall Town. The competition is being coordinated by the Cricket Development Committee of the RHTY&SC as part of its year-long celebration of its Silver Jubilee anniversary.

Twelve teams will be part of the tournament, namely Blairmont, D’Edward, Young Warriors, Albion, RHT Bakewell A, RHT Bakewell B, Yakusari, Port Mourant, Tamarind Root, Courtland, Block Four and Whim. The winner of the tournament will receive $70,000 and a trophy, the runner-up $30,000 and a trophy and the losing semi-finalists $20,000 each. Clubs have until Monday to submit the 15-member teams to the organisers.

The Rose Hall Town

Bakewell A team will be led by veteran cricketer Major James Fraser and will include Delbert Hicks, Vidal Crandon, Akshay Homraj, Brandon Prashad, Shemaine Campbelle and Erva Giddings. The Bakewell B team will be led by all-rounder Simeon Lawson and will include junior players like Junior Sinclair, Jason Anderson, Kevlon Anderson, Brandon Corlette, Keith Simpson and Surendra Budhoo.

Rose Hall Town Bakewell A reads: James Fraser; Vidal Crandon; Khemraj Mahadeo; Delbert Hicks (player/coach); Mark Papannah; Akshay Homraj; Sylus Tyndall; Rondell Lewis; Erva Giddings; Mark Fernandes; Sherain Murray; Brandon Prashad; Joshua Wilson; Justin Gobin and Shemaine Campbelle.

Rose Hall Town Bakewell B reads: Junior Williams, Kevlon Anderson, Denzil Sinclair, Jason Anderson, Simeon Lawson, Sunil Madrimootoo, Brandon Corlette, Keith Simpson, Azam Khan, Joshua Gobin, Surendra Budhoo, Surendra Kissoonlall, Ronston Lawson, Calvin Jeffrey, and Samuel Lewis.

accident while training last month.

Jeffrey’s winning time in 2014 was one hour, 55 minutes, 17 seconds (01h: 55m: 17s), while the other category winners were Akeem Arthur (Junior); Wazim Hassnu (Veteran); Ozia McUally (Mountain Bike);

Toshawna Doris (Female) and Monty Parris (Veteran Over-60).

According to Mohamed, Foreman of the Mechanic Section of Guyoil, Junior Persaud, will be on hand to witness the race and assist in the presentation of prizes at the conclusion.

CBC Women’s Championships

Guyana unable to win a game

Guyana could not win a game in their group stage during the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Championships, and were thus eliminated from the tournament being held in the British Virgin Islands, (BVI).

Guyana came out battling in their first game, showing great effort but fell to host nation BVI 64-61.

The second game saw the Guyanese ladies suffering a blowout to Jamaica who won the game easily 70-43.

Their final game on Wednesday evening saw Guyana falling to Barbados 61-81 as the Guyanese simply could not hang with Barbados on the offensive side of the floor.

Miriam McKenzie was Guyana’s best player averaging 21.7 points and 13 rebounds. McKenzie dropped 16 points and 17 rebounds against Barbados while recording 24 points and 11 rebounds against Jamaica. Against Barbados, McKenzie scored 25 points and 11 rebounds to be Guyana’s best player on the floor.

Miriam McKenzie

Shemaine Campbelle

Akshay Homraj

Representatives of the various clubs are set to invade the West Demerara roadways on Sunday

Hero Caribbean Premier League 2015

Amazon Warriors begin quest for 2015 title

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

Every journey starts with the first step, and the Guyana Amazon Warriors on Thursday made that initial leap, commencing a oneweek training camp under the guidance of new Head Coach Carl Hooper at the

Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

The camp, a customary practice for teams preparing for competitions, is a vital one for the South Americabased franchise, who will look to cram a heavy workload in the next week with the aim of getting in peak condition for the Hero

Caribbean Premier League.

Despite unfavourable weather conditions on Thursday, the local-based players did manage to put in a day’s work at the country’s premier sports facility under the watchful eyes of the Australia-based Guyanese Hooper, and his technical support team.

Sir Wes inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Legendary former West Indies Sir Wes Hall was Thursday inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame, in a ceremony during the lunch interval on the opening day of the second Test against Australia at Sabina Park.

The 77-year-old received his commemorative cap from another legendary former pacer, Courtney Walsh, who has already been inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Sir Wes is the 18th West Indies player and fourth player overall this year to be inducted in the Hall of Fame which boasts 80 members.

“I feel privileged and indeed honoured to be given this tremendous award. I have noted the list and it has some tremendous cricketers – heroes who have made the game what it is today. So, I am humbled to be included among these many greats of the game,” Sir Wes said.

“Anytime you get these kind of encomiums, it is memorable. It is fantastic to receive the award in the

West Indies and in front of adoring fans, which makes it even more special.

“I have represented the West Indies as a cricketer, as the team manager, and as the President of the WICB, so I will treat this as something I value and will always remember.”

He added: ““Fast bowling was my hallmark and I enjoyed my moments on the cricket field. I enjoyed representing the people of the West Indies and contributing towards the develop-

ment of the game and the region.

“Cricket has been extremely good to me and I was happy to give back to the game. This honour, presented to me by the ICC, is one I will cherish. It is not just for me but for the people of the West Indies.”

Sir Wes was honoured for his services and contributions to cricket, where he performed several roles in administration following his illustrious playing career.

A lightning fast rightarmer, Sir Wes snared 192 wickets from 48 Tests between 1958 and 1969. He is best remembered for bowling the last over in the famous tied Test against Australia in Brisbane in December, 1960 when he finished with match figures of nine for 203.

Also attending Thursday’s ceremony was West Indies Cricket Board president Dave Cameron, legendary former captain Clive Lloyd and cricketing great, Sir Everton Weekes. (BBC Sport)

Under Hooper, the Guyana Amazon Warriors are looking to break the jinx and win the tournament for the first time, after finishing as runners-up for the previous two years’ editions, losing to Jamaica Tallawahs in 2013 and Barbados Tridents last year.

Hooper, working with the Guyana franchise for the first time, used the day to familiarise himself with the lo-

cal-based players, including the four Under-19 recruits – Shimron Hetmyer, Keemo Paul, Akshaya Persaud and Sherfane Rutherford and ICC Americas player Satsimranjit Dhinsa of Canada.

“We had a bit of bad weather this morning, but we managed to put reasonable training session in. As you can see, the lads are now finishing up, we just did

some power hitting. The lads are keen, the vibe in the side is good, we’ve gelled quickly, having a little bit of fun, but at the same time there is a seriousness and intensity with the training. We just hope for some better weather in the next few days so we can continue to prepare properly for this tournament,” Hooper told this publication.

Smith’s century aids Australia recovery after Taylor’s brilliance

Steven Smith’s ninth hundred - his fifth in six Tests - held Australia’s innings together in Jamaica, his partnerships of 118 with Michael Clarke and 76 with Adam Voges ensuring West Indies were able to claim only four wickets on the first day. The returns were fewer than Denesh Ramdin would have wanted when he gave his fast bowlers first use of a moderately grassy pitch at Sabina Park.

West Indies had a hero too, though. Jerome Taylor was outstanding, dismissing Australia’s openers while not conceding a run in six overs before lunch. He swung the ball both ways at pace, got it to bounce appreciably, and finished the day with figures of 15-818-3. Unfortunately for the home side, Taylor had little back up. Kemar Roach and Veerasammy Permaul were expensive, and Jason Holder had a bit of a groin problem in the second session.

West Indies had been hindered by injury and illness before play began as

well. Marlon Samuels had an eye problem, Devendra Bishoo was nursing a sore finger, and Shannon Gabriel had the flu, and so they had to bring in the debutant Rajendra Chandrika, Permaul and Roach.

Despite those setbacks, West Indies began the Test so well. Taylor got the third delivery of the match to explode from a length, and David Warner fended as it seamed away from him, the sharp bounce taking

the outside edge to third slip. In the fifth over, after moving a couple of deliveries away from Shaun Marsh, Taylor nipped one in from round the wicket and hit the left-hander’s pads as he stumbled across his crease. Australia were 16 for 2. Taylor had 25 wickets at 12.92 apiece at Sabina Park, the second best bowling average at this venue for a bowler with more than ten wickets.

Sir Wes Hall

Jerome Taylor celebrates after dismissing David Warner

The future! The four Under-19 recruits pose for a photo. From left: Shimron Hetmyer, Keemo Paul, Sherfane Rutherford, and Akshaya Persaud

New Head Coach Carl Hooper bowls to Christopher Barnwell at Thursday’s session (Photos: Avenash Ramzan)