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Foundation brightens Christmas for fallen heroes’ families P13

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

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 3076

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

PRICE

Budget 2017

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Teixeira probes Govt’s $3B spending on Ambassadors

Guyanese busted with ganja at P2 Jamaica’s airport Holiday shopping blues

Page 3

…as Greenidge defends $1B payout to international organisations

Policemen busted with large quantity of ganja …under close arrest

Lindener killed in early morning smash-up

$80 vat included

Linden businesses bemoan slothful economic activity P13

Page 16

Page 7

Low water pressure, poor quality plague Region 2 residents P16

Good Hope couple’s murder

4 slapped with murder charge

Page 8

Demarcation no help to Amerindians – report P2

Piracy, smuggling raised during high-level GuyanaSuriname meeting P14

Border controversy Jason Howard called “Smelly”

Shamadeen Mohamed called “Milo”

Sanjay George called “Coolie Boy”

…5th suspect on the run

Joel Blair called “Joey”

5% salary increase for GPL workers

Page 7

Guyana ready for last shot at Good Offices Process ― Greenidge P9

2 news

wednesDAY, december 21, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

Demarcation no help to Amerindians – APA report

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ost Amerindian villages do not think that demarcation will help to protect their lands because of mistakes in the boundary lines that leave important areas outside the boundaries, an Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) report said.

The report indicated that of the 25 titled and demarcated villages visited as part of this assessment, 14 villages (56 per cent) considered the demarcated boundaries to have mistakes and do not match their original legal land title description. Some of these villages are Santa Rosa, Manawarin, Warapoka, Chinese Landing, Barima-Koriabo, Yarakita, Kamwatta, Sebai, Baramita, Akawini, Wakapao, Mashabo, Capoey and Kabakaburi.

In several cases, villages complained that boundary surveys and demarcation done by the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) have reduced their title areas. Among these villages are Santa Rosa, Sebai, Barima Koriabo, Yarakita, Akawini, Capoey and Kabakaburi.

In 2016, the report said all the villages are still waiting for these errors to be corrected. It stated that another eight villages are unhappy

The APA report about the demarcation even though the boundary more or less matches their title description – Kwebanna, Little Kaniballi, Assakata, Kokerite, Hotoquai, Hobodia, Bethany and St Monica. “They say that even if the demarcation is correct, it has only served to mark out a flawed title area that the village never formally agreed to through an FPIC [free, prior and informed consent] process, and that does not protect important settlements and customary lands that remain outside the boundary,” the report stated, adding that altogether 22 of the 25 demarcated villages (88 per cent) are unhappy with their demarcation. It highlighted that there were no official agreed ways to make sure that villages consult and

agree on their common title extension boundaries. The report discovered that in most cases, villages did not consult with their neighbours before sending extension applications to the former Ministry of Amerindian Affairs (MoAA).

“But the MoAA also did not appear to have any clear rules requiring such consultation.

The result is that the requested extension areas of many neighbouring villages overlap.

This problem remains unresolved in 2016,” it added.

It said further that the Government has not dealt with village applications for land title or title extensions promptly or competently.

“Many villages submitted their original applications over a decade ago (eg Kariako first

applied in 1994), and most made several applications, including Kokerite, Hobodia, Kwebanna, Kaniballi, Santa Rosa, St Monica, Mashabo, Akawini, Wakapao and Bethany. Only eight applications for extension received written replies from the authorities, while in several cases replies were only verbal (eg Kokerite, Mashabo and Bethany). Five applications never received any reply,” it expounded, stating that the Government claimed to have lost extension applications in three cases – Santa Rosa, Barima-Koriabo and Bethany.

Of the 17 villages request-

ing land title extensions, only one had been issued by the end of 2015 (Yarakita, which applied in 2007).

Thus, the report stated that the indigenous people believe that there was no official, fair and transparent appeal process where villages can take their concerns about demarcation surveys. It stated also that GLSC officials have ignored complaints or doubts raised by Village Councils and residents about demarcation.

It explained that villagers complain that there was no clear appeal process or grievance mechanism they could use when unhappy about

boundary demarcation. They have even indicated that surveyors have even threatened some villages that they must pay for demarcation from their own funds unless the village approves the demarcation boundary description (eg, Kaniballi).

“In the case of Kabakaburi Village, GLSC only corrected errors after high-profile public protests and Village Council complaints in the national press,” it stated, adding that the methods and reasons for deciding land title extension areas were sometimes biased, unclear or strange.

Guyanese busted with ganja at Jamaica’s airport

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Guyanese woman was busted with several pounds of compressed marijuana

by Jamaican authorities at the Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA).

According to an article published by the Jamaica Observer on Tuesday, the narcotics were found in the luggage of the 23-year-old.

It was reported that the Jamaica Police on Monday evening disclosed that Michelle Ann Bamfield otherwise called “Blacka”, of Georgetown, Guyana arrived at the NMIA about 16:30h on Thursday and attempted to board a flight.

During security checks, her suitcase was searched and a false compartment containing the ganja, which

weighed approximately eight pounds was found, the Jamaica Observer reported the Police to have said. The drug has an estimated street value of J$32,000. Bamfield, who was charged with Breaches of the Dangerous Drugs Act, is scheduled to appear in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on Thursday.

news

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wednesDAY, december 21, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, December 21 – 11:30h-13:00h and Thursday, December 22 – 13:00h-14:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, December 21 – 10:35h-12:05h and Thursday, December 22 – 11:50h-13:20h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

Budget 2017

Teixeira probes Govt’s $3B spending on Ambassadors …as Greenidge defends $1B payout to international organisations being paid to the CDEMA. Regardless, Teixeira quipped whether clearing the arrears left Guyana at an advantage, adding that it has not aided the country in the past.

She said further that even international countries like the US owe billions.

Nevertheless, Greenidge was adamant that it was

WEATHER TODAY Heavy rain showers with sunny intervals can be expected during the day, while partly cloudy skies are expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East to East North-easterly between 0.89 metre and 3.57 metres.

tract employees under the “Foreign Policy Promotion” programme for the Foreign Ministry’s 2017 budget. The Opposition Chief Whip asked the Foreign Minister to release a list of all posts filled with Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and Charge d’Affairés and deputies, as well as Consul Generals.

She said further that the list

High Tide: 10:09h and 22:36h reaching maximum heights of 2.22 metres and 2.19 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 03:35h and 16:07h reaching minimum heights of 0.95 metre and 1.04 metres respectively.

saturday, december 17, 2016

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DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

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Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira

oreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge was hauled across the coals on Tuesday in Parliament for a $1 billion payout in contributions to international organisations and the accumulation of $3 billion in spending on Ambassadors.

Pointing out that the supplementary financial papers showed that funding was increased to $1.17 billion, Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira asserted that this signified a “phenomenal” hike of over half a billion dollars in contributions from 2016 to 2017 to the international organisations.

However, Greenidge argued that while Teixeira was right in her assessment that the increase was significant, the payout reflected the negotiations between the Government through the Foreign Affairs Ministry and the external agencies for the clearance of arrears in 2017.

“We have a number of arrears of significant size in a number of agencies… and we have negotiated for the arrears to be reduced,” he told the Committee of Supply.

Some of the organisations which came under scruti-

ny were the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, whose fee climbed from $31.4 million in 2016 to $427.2 million in 2017, while the United Nations local offices’ cost jumped from $16.7 million in 2016 to $65.8 million in 2017.

The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) fee saw a leap from $9.9 million to $40.5 million in 2017.

Additionally, Teixeira questioned why the Organisation of American States (OAS) is receiving monies from both the Public Infrastructure and the Foreign Affairs Ministries.

She stated that the OAS received $1.29 million in 2016 and another $1.29 million is allocated in 2017 to be paid by the Public Infrastructure Ministry.

However, Greenidge said he was unaware that this was happening. He indicated that the cost for the UN local offices covers arrears of US$219,471. He stated that relative to the IMPACS, the increase represents an amendment to what would be Guyana’s annual contribution.

He noted that arrears of EC$407,587 which have accrued since 2016 were now

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge

crucial to remain current on the financial front to ensure that Guyana has a voice and allies when the need arose.

Excessive spending

Meanwhile, Teixeira pushed Greenidge to produce a cost benefit analysis since some $3 billion was spent on Ambassadors. She also called on him to validate a $200 million increase in the amount allocated for con-

should include the emoluments, salaries and benefits of these persons.

However, Greenidge stated that the increase reflected almost all the new postings in terms of Principal Foreign Officers and Ambassadors, along with employment of new Ambassadors in London, Ottawa, Havana, New York, Brussels, and Nickerie. turn to page 5

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guyanatimesgy.com

wednesDAY, december 21, 2016

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707

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

Editorial

Government procurement

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ccording to the latest edition of the World Bank Group’s 2017 Benchmarking Public Procurement (BPP) report, public procurement rules and practices remain inefficient in large swathes of the world, despite government efforts towards efficiency in delivering better services to their citizens.

The report which assesses public procurement regulatory systems in 180 economies has noted that accessibility and transparency of public procurement rules and practices remain limited, depriving many small- and medium-firms the opportunity to bid for service contracts for government and other public sector institutions.

According to the report, the worldwide public procurement market is estimated at approximately US$9.5 trillion each year.

Of this, developing countries spend an estimated US$820 billion a year worth of citizens’ funds, about 50 per cent or more of their total government expenditure, on procuring goods and services that range from food for welfare programmes, to wiring for electrical grids that power homes and businesses.

Public procurement markets, therefore, represent huge opportunities to boost competition and economic growth.

As explained in the report, an e-procurement system, for example, benefits the Private Sector as well as governments by making procurement more transparent and fair.

It is worthwhile to mention too that the report has found that in 15 per cent, or 25, of the economies surveyed, an electronic portal dedicated to procurement does not even exist. Moreover, in the economies that do have such portal, a wide gap exists between economies that have sophisticated e-procurement platforms offering a range of services and ones that only use the internet to publish basic information such as procurement laws.

The report notes that publicising future procurement opportunities, electronic submission of bids and public announcements of tender awards are other best practices that could be more widely adopted. Providing information such as procurement plans during the pre-tendering phase online, can help suppliers when planning their sales strategies and preparing their bids.

The report found that only 74 economies publish procurement plans online. More surprisingly, in only 24 of those does the law expressly mandate that such information be made available electronically.

Private Sector firms wishing to participate in Government contracting also face significant challenges on the financial aspects of the procurement process. On this basis it is necessary that a well-functioning component be included to address complaints or challenges from bidders on any aspect of the procurement process, including final contract awards.

After years of wrangling between the major political players, Guyana finally made a major breakthrough in relation to the awarding of state contracts with the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission. It is expected that when the commission is fully operational it will oversee the award of contracts and handle complaints from aggrieved persons.

This is indeed a step in the right direction as it will seek to address the many concerns that have been raised over the years about transparency and efficiency in awarding of Government contracts. Citizens would only have a high level of confidence in the system if they feel comfortable that the process is transparent and could withstand scrutiny.

Only recently, there has been a barrage of criticisms over the present Government’s handling of various contracts. Many have expressed the view that the Administration has been favouring its own supporters and friends of the Coalition in the awarding of these contracts. Over the past few months it’s one scandal after the other – the infamous drugs bond scandal, the D’Urban Park project, the awarding of scholarships, among many others. This being done and the Government has done very little to assuage the fears and concerns of the populace that taxpayers’ dollars are spent in the most transparent and fair manner.

There are many lessons to be learnt from these experiences and it is hoped that the Government is taking the concerns of the various stakeholders seriously. Certainly the Government can do more to improve access to public procurement opportunities. By highlighting good practices as well as areas for improvement, we hope the evidence in this World Bank report will galvanise policymakers to effect the needed reforms and, thus, help the economy benefit from Private Sector growth and get better value for money in the procurement of goods and services.

Participants, wearing Santa Claus outfits, take part in a charity race in benefit of the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation in Madrid, Spain (Reuters)

Fidel played a significant role in Guyanese and international politics Dear Editor, Much has been written on Fidel Castro after his death on the impact of his revolution on Third World societies. Unquestionably, the revolution had a profound impact on international relations and on the struggle against imperialism. He also influenced the politics of Guyana, brought the cold war to Guyana that led to Forbes Burnham siding with the imperialists against the Progressives.

Many Guyanese had some romanticism with the revolution and Fidel; they wanted to imitate Fidel to make revolution against oppressive dictators, especially those aligned with the Western imperialist powers.

Our very own Burnham and the PNC were ardent allies of imperialism during the first decade of their ethnic dictatorship.

There was no question that the 1959 Cuban Revolution transformed politics in the Third World and

the anti-colonial struggle, and also helped to deepen the cold war between the USSR and the USA. The revolution led to deeper US involvement in the politics of Third World countries in Latin America, the Caribbean and in Africa, Asia, and islands in the Pacific. The US toppled regimes friendly to USSR or those seen as anti-American as in Guyana, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, etc.

As a young student in the social sciences, and one who was involved in the struggle against the racist Burnham dictatorship, one could not help but admire Fidel and also sympathize with his cause of overthrowing the US financed dictator Fulgenicio Baptista; Burnham was also funded by the US. Castro was a dictator, which any democratic advocate like me would condemn, but he also did positive things for Cuba. But he instituted relative equality among all, regardless of sta-

tus or race. He provided free education and healthcare. A decade after the revolution, Cuba had perhaps the best healthcare and educational system in the developing world. He exported healthcare by sending Cuban doctors to attend to the poor in Third World countries. And he provided free training to thousands of doctors from around the world. Guyanese were/are beneficiaries – hundreds of Guyanese were educated in Cuba. For that, Guyana and the developing world is grateful.

Castro was an unrepentant Marxist. He admired our own Cheddi Jagan for his socialist ideals and refusal to compromise his political philosophy; Fidel welcomed Cheddi to Cuba.

Caribbean Magazines and the Caribbean Contact newspaper during the 1970s and 1980s had glowing references to Jagan and his wife, Janet for standing up to imperialism like the way no other Caribbean lead-

ers did. Castro also praised Grenadian Maurice Bishop who in 1981, called Jagan the “Dean of Socialism in the Caribbean”.

With regards to Guyana, one must not forget that during the anti-colonial struggle, Burnham told the Americans and British that Cheddi and Janet Jagan wanted to make Guyana into another Cuba as a beachhead for the USSR in South America. The US and UK made Burnham their man.

All this time, Burnham was in a close relationship with Washington.

The US destabilized the Jagan Administration and installed Burnham in office. Later, under international pressure in the mid1970s, the opportunistic Burnham would embrace Castro’s anti-imperialist talk at the non-aligned summit. But the opportunistic Burnham’s warning to Washington against Jagan continued till the 1980s just before his death. continues on page 5

Media did well in 2016 Dear Editor, The politician of the year award goes to the media. They have stepped in where politicians were either inept or lazy to perform the peoples work. Moreover, the media has served the politicians well in fostering an environment of reaction rather than proaction. For instance, investigative journalism has led to many sur-

prising, or not so surprising headlines. It should be noted that the media, whether social or otherwise, has been bias depending on the sensitivity of its audience, regardless of the old adage good medicine is hard to swallow.

Nevertheless, I have seen improvement in reporting current affairs unfiltered to the extent that the media is now being blamed for hyp-

ing up the current crime situation.

I believe this new direction would become infectious and the growth of citizen reporting will grow exponentially in all facets of social media, including cellphone recordings of misdeeds.

Media can be the third political party against a set of collations that have come to serve their own self-inter-

ests, directly or indirectly.

Media should remain the beacons of truth that shine the light on everything dishonest. Moreover, it should continuously seek to educate the citizenry about their rights to freedom, liberty and justice.

Sincerely, Keith Benard

guyanatimesgy.com

wednesDAY, december 21, 2016

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

Young people and crime Dear Editor, Our young people today in Guyana are rapidly sliding down a hill into immorality and a life of crime.

As I watched the news and read the papers I note with a great deal of interest that most of our young people are involved in some very serious gun crimes. Most of these young people are Afro-Guyanese; most are from broken homes and single parent backgrounds.

These young people are trying to get-rich-quick by robbing innocent citizens daily and the drug trade is growing like a tree perpetually among the young and old. Even old ladies in their

70’s and 80’s are pushing drugs, thus drugs destroy the youths in our communities and that motivates them to commit crimes to get money to fuel their drug cravings. We have bicycle and motorbike snatchers in the city of Georgetown; pickpockets, choke and rob and firearm bandits all over in Guyana as well.

The robbery of the Cambio dealer in Berbice of over $20 million gives us much to think of, considering a former Police Officer was involved, according to the news. These big guns they were carrying were AK-47’s. This gives us much to desire pertaining

to where and how they acquired these weapons and if they are not caught they will create a wild rampage of more crimes in this country. Most Police Officers do not carry weapons and those at the stations are unable to deal with these hard-core criminals who carry weapons. I am yet to hear the voice of the Public Security Minister, our President and all our foreign embassies, on how to tackle this crime situation.

It is my firm opinion that these criminals have many masterminds or ‘’intellectual authors’’ planning these crimes and more is yet to come if this AK-47 gang is

Fidel played a significant...

Hoyte continued the warnings, accusing Jagan of wanting to turn Guyana into a communist state – hoping this strategy would win over US which instructed Hoyte to hold free and fair elec-

tions.

Not many Third World leaders embraced Castro in the early stages of his revolution, but later he would earn their respect and adulation. He helped to hold

NAM together even when it was losing its relevance.

Regardless of how he is judged, Fidel played a significant role in Guyanese and international politics, and one can say that it was

Teixeira probes Govt’s $3B...

These contracts, he said, run for a year to three years, depending on negotiations between the Government and the individual.

It must be noted that the number of employees under the Ministry’s “Foreign Policy Promotion” programme increased from 156 to 183, while the number of contract employees almost tripled and the allocation for the programme under the Ministry moved from $2.36 billion in 2016 to $3.05 billion in 2017. It was highlighted that the only post that has not been filled is

the Consul General position in Canada. It was also stated that payments of rent were jacked up from $696.7 million to $921.5 million.

“The benefits outweigh the cost,” Greenidge responded.

The appointment of Guyana’s Ambassadordesignate to Kuwait, Shamir Ally, was also raised by the Opposition Chief Whip. She questioned who was paying for his stay in the country and also the status of his appointment since it was halted by an investigation relating to legal woes with the

US Securities and Exchange Commission.

Greenidge responded that Ally has not been endorsed and has not been paid; instead he is living on an allowance provided to him. Teixeira quipped that the process was taking a long time.

She also asked whether the Government has guidelines to ensure Guyana would not surpass its fiscal commitments to support living arrangements for Ambassadors. In reply, Greenidge stated, “Policy of the Ministry is not one

not dealt with expeditiously.

Getting rich quick has been a way of life for many young people, both males and females who have embraced a life of crime in Guyana. The crime is here to stay because this Government has much too lenient laws for these criminals who killed innocent citizens. These criminals must be given the death sentence. If this APNU/ AFC Government enforces tougher laws the crime will be eradicated. We must remember Mr Desmond Hoyte when he said ‘’To Hang Them High’’ if we don’t get rid of criminals

from page 4

because of Fidel that the US embraced Burnham over the real Marxist Cheddi.

Yours faithfully, Vishnu Bisram

from page 3

that allows Ambassadors or Ambassador-designates to arrive and rent a building.”

This gained him another question: whether it is beneficial to have diplomatic missions in Geneva, Brussels, Trinidad and Kuwait? He countered that the Swiss Government has agreed to facilitate Guyana’s cost for residence assistance and that the other missions allow for engagement with the World Trade Organisation, which is central for the Government’s financial negotiation.

they will get rid of us as a nation. They might even take over this nation by a military invasion judging from the military guns they are using to rob and kill people.

Crime is also a moral problem. It stems from poor family values. If our young people have parental guidance and a good home and education they will not turn to drugs and crime. We need to build schools and churches in our prison compounds to educate these prisoners; even get teachers to teach them CXC so they can have a better future. We need a prison reform programme and better living conditions

for prisoners.

Drugs and crime have now become a global phenomenon, not only in Guyana but all over the world and we must not be fooled to think that in America there is no crime.

We must act now as a nation to get rid of crime or all our business people will leave Guyana very soon; many have left already. We must work hard to get what we want not by pushing drugs. We must have more programmes for our youths, because today’s youths will be tomorrow’s leaders.

Yours faithfully, Rev Gideon Cecil

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guyanatimesgy.com

wednesday, december 21, 2016

Page

Foundation

− Make meaningful conversation (Continued from Tuesday)

By ANDREA REISER

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onversations are often the most special part of memorable event. To make the most of outings and experiences this holiday season, have a few solid topics up your sleeve to engage your family. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself griping about to-do lists, homework and basketball schedules during your special outing instead of the things you really wanted to share. As you drive around the neighbourhood looking at Christmas lights, maybe ask your children about their favourite Christmas memories or what they’re grateful for in their lives. Or, before attending a church service or local event, sit down and talk about what Christmas truly means to each member of your family. You may be surprised at the answers – and it will make each event and activity that much more meaningful.

Dress up!

It’s amazing how getting all dolled up can take an event from “meh” to memorable. If you frame your holiday outings as opportunities instead of as obligations, your children may not mind putting on their fancy duds – and they’ll definitely remember the fact that you thought that they were ma-

ture enough to attend such a special event. (And if you’re super-lucky, maybe you can snap a few pics of everyone all dressed up!)

Make something out of nothing

background, that “reason” might differ from your neighbour’s, but one thing’s for sure: This is a time to be grateful and to count blessings. When your family visits a friend or attends a cool event, take a moment to

There are myriad opportunities to help those in need in your own community. This is the perfect time of year to teach children that it truly is better to give than to receive – and it can actually feel really good, too. These experiences will instil values in your children and broaden their perspective on the true meaning of Christmas.

Live in the moment

A meaningful holiday experience doesn’t have to cost a ton, and it doesn’t have to be a once-in-a-lifetime event. In fact, your family can make routine holiday tasks into beloved traditions. For example, get everyone together to wrap gifts for friends and family, and share hot chocolate and cookies while you’re curling ribbon and cutting paper. Or let everyone climb into special holiday pajamas and pile into the car to look at the beautiful holiday lights in your town.

Give thanks

As the saying goes, “Remember the reason for the season.” Depending on your family’s beliefs and

point out to your children how fortunate they are to have such special people and opportunities in their lives.

Go around the dinner table and give everyone a chance to express gratitude for specific people or things they’re thankful for. And remind your children that not every child around the world is so privileged.

Give back

If your family is counting its blessings, the natural next step is to reach out to those whose holiday seasons might not be filled with much cheer. Consider donating to a charity instead of giving as many gifts, volunteering at a shelter or carolling at a nursing home.

It’s easy to get caught up in the hoopla of the holidays and forget to take a step back and just savour the special moments. There’s so much to be done, but focusing on it all instead of what you’re doing at the moment can suck a lot of joy out of the season. If you’re constantly setting your sights on the next holiday party or dance recital on your calendar, you won’t be fully enjoying the activity you’re currently doing. Revelling in the now and accepting the (minor) flaws that might come along allows you to truly experience the benefits of living in the present.

Those moments with family and friends will be that much sweeter.

(The Huffington Post)

This Christmas, do what you enjoy

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h r i s t m a s breathes quietly around us all, as it lingers less than a week away. For some, its imminent arrival brings happiness, good company and time for relaxation; for others it brings just the opposite.

It is easy to become so preoccupied with having a “good” Christmas that you acAshley Anthony complish exactly the opposite. I think sometimes people put too much pressure on the season; everything has to be perfect. Christmas tree done up exactly one way, the decorations on the house have to be put up ASAP, and let’s not forget how much cooking and cleaning has to be done.

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to put effort into planning festive activities, but I think it becomes a problem when the planning or the execution of an activity produces more stress than enjoyment. I believe that the Christmas season, along with other holiday periods, should be a time for rest and recuperation, and if its not, then maybe you should consider doing some things differently.

Of course, when we are accustomed to things being done a certain way, we are not inclined to change.

Traditions, moreover Christmas traditions, are a major foundational pillar in many Guyanese homes.

However, if these traditions end with family yelling at each other due to tensions, crying, or even worse – are they worth it?

We become so obsessed with finding the right gifts for people, throwing a perfect party or making the best food, that sometimes we forget why we are doing these things. We shouldn’t be doing them because we feel obligated to, since it’s Christmas. No. We should because we want to make our loved ones happy and we want to make them feel appreciated.

The success of Christmas shouldn’t be determined by whether you were able to buy the most expensive gifts for your friends, but rather by how happy you were during the season.

This is not to say to do away with fancy dinners, or gift giving exercises, and decorating the house, but it is to say, do what you enjoy. If you enjoy these traditions, by all means, go ahead. But do them for the right reasons. If it becomes overwhelming, take a break and cool off; don’t overtax yourself or snap at members of your family. If you find that you don’t enjoy doing certain things, why not talk it over with other members of the family and suggest alternatives? Who knows, maybe it’ll start a better, more unique and more beloved family tradition?

7 5% salary increase Lindener killed in early morning smash-up for GPL workers news

wednesDAY, december 21, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

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Workers protesting on Monday

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ollowing a meeting between the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE) it was decided that workers will be given a five per cent across the board increase and other benefits.

The meeting between the Power Company and the Workers Union came a day after employees attached to the Transmission and Distribution (T&D) unit downed tools, protesting a decision by the company to offer them a mere two per cent increase, blanking the eight per cent proposed by the representative body.

Hours after the meeting, union President Kenneth Joseph said the five per cent increase is expected to be paid before year-end. Added to that, the power company also agreed to reintroduce the zero to 10 per cent performance assessment increment one-off payment.

On Monday, workers of the T&D unit stood in protest outside GPL’s Main Street Head Office, protesting a two per cent salary increase offered by the company. Workers said they were not accepting that, stating that they were standing by their eight per cent proposal.

The almost 40 employees gathered in front of the company’s main branch in Georgetown, and though they carried no placards, they made the point that the two per cent increase being proposed by the power company will in no way work for them, especially at this time of the year.

“We come out here because we are saying no to that two per cent,” one protestor, Gregory Gibson said.

“The union and management meet, and they ain’t come to no sort of agreement. They offer us two per cent and that can’t work, especially around this time,” he told the Guyana Times “Every year is the same thing, every year is one thing with them,” another worker lamented.

Joseph, who was also present during the protest, explained that the power company and the Union have found themselves in a deadlock, as the negotiations have not yet been completed.

He pointed to the fact that the Union would not be doing its work effectively and representing the interest of workers, if it were to accept the proposals of the company.

“These include the across the board payment, the changes in working hours

that were signed long ago.

We don’t agree with the proposals they have made. They are just pulling this thing on… They are not ready yet to call us to discuss some new thing. I think it was disgusting throughout,” the Union President told this newspaper.

He said the union has given the company every chance possible to come up with a situation that would not involve a protest or strike action.

“We told them that the people will someday get fed up and that is what has happened today. The Union is in full support of this protest. I’m sorry that we have to be on the road. It took them eleven and a half months for them to be on the road. But you can imagine, they are frustrated, the Union is frustrated. I was told that there are people on the road in Onverwagt and New Amsterdam. We were hoping that it did not get this far. I already told the Ministry of Labour that my members are on the road,” he said GPL’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Wrenford Homer told the media at a news conference on Monday that the power company was hoping for an amicable conclusion on Tuesday when the two meet.

n accident along the Amelia's Ward Public Road on Tuesday claimed the life of a 28-yearold Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) woman.

Dead is Toushanna Frank, of Central Amelia's Ward, Mackenzie, Linden.

Reports are at about 01:45h, the now dead woman was in a motorcar bearing registration plates PSS 6725, which was being driven by her 51-yearold mother, Paula Jennifer Taylor, when the car collided with a minibus with registration plates BTT 766.

The 51-year-old vendor was rushed to the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) but was subsequently transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) where she remains in a critical condition. At the time of the accident, the dead woman’s children – Delicia Chan, 10, and Darnelle Frank, four – were also in the car.

The children, however, escaped with minor injuries but their mother was pronounced dead.

According to the Police, the motorcar driven by Taylor was proceeding North along the Amelia's Ward

The badly damaged minibus

Public Road, when she lost control and collided with the minibus, which was heading South at the time. The bus was being driven by Royston Telford, 57, of Industrial Area, Mackenzie, Linden.

Upon learning of the accident, relatives and friends

Dead: Toushanna Frank

took to Frank's Facebook page to express their grief.

She leaves to mourn her two children. The accident occurred at the same location where 10 persons from Linden were killed in a similar manner in 2007. (Utamu Belle)

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wednesDAY, december 21, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

IN THE COURTS Good Hope couple’s murder

4 slapped with murder charge …5th suspect on the run

T

he four men who were arrested and charged with the burning to death of Good Hope, East Bank Essequibo couple Mohammed and Bibi Jamila Munir were made to stand before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday.

Sanjay George, called “Coolie Boy”; Jason Howard, called “Smelly”; Joel Blair called “Joey” and Shabadeen Mohammed called “Milo”, all with sullen faces, appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty.

They had the murder charge read to them which stated that on April 17, 2016 at Good Hope, they murdered Mohammed and Bibi Jamila Munir during the course of arson. They were not required to plead to the indictable offence.

All of the accused were remanded to prison until

Dead: Mohammed and Jamilla Munir

January 12, 2017, when they will appear before the Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan.

Last week, the men were arrested and were said to have confessed to Police, giving a detailed account of the crime which they committed. A fifth person, Gavin Sheppard, called “Pepsi”, is currently being hunted by Police, to face the charge of murder.

According to the suspects, the attempted robbery was hatched after information that the couple had a large sum of money in their home. On the night of the incident, the elderly couple, who were reportedly asleep, were awakened by noises and later ordered out of their bedroom by the men.

However, as the couple failed to comply, one of the suspects confessed to setting a sofa in the home alight, after which he tossed a fuel cylinder into the fire which caused a huge explosion.

They then made good their escape. Attempts by

neighbours to rescue the couple, who were heard and seen screaming for help from a grilled window of their home, proved futile.

Their charred remains were discovered together after the blaze was doused.

One of the suspects, Jason Howard was also charged with five additional counts of robbery under arms. And he, along with another, Curtis Vasconcellos, was charged with another count of robbery under arms and attempted murder.

That charge alleged that the two men, on December 14, 2016 at Main Street, Georgetown, while being armed with a gun, wounded Valmick Persaud with intent to murder him. They were also charged with robbing Hotel Tower accountant Baldeo Seegobin on December 14, 2016 of $1.2 million, one chequebook and other items, all valued $2.9 million.

All were remanded and were expected to reappear before the court on January 12, 2017.

Christmas…

I

… tales from Finance Minister

t appears Finance Minister Winston Jordan’s epistolary foray into crafting that epic tragedy he called “The 2017 Budget” encouraged him to venture into aother literary genre. He just emulated Charles Dickens’ Christmas masterpiece, “A Christmas Carol”, which introduced that now emblematic tightwad, Ebenezer Scrooge. Well, that’s what the contractors - who became imbued with patriotic fervour as our Independence Jubilee loomed and dipped deep into their deep pockets to construct the eponymous Stadium at D’Urban Park - think!!

What else but “Scrooge” would they call Jordan who announced they’ll only be receiving $500M of the $798M they shelled out to give the Stadium a running start. And to rub salt into their patriotic wounds, the Finance Minister had the insensitivity to bluster, “Take it or leave it!!” Is this any way to treat a bunch of businessmen who just wanted to show their love of country? “Bah! Humbug!” is what your Eyewitness says.

Imagine these patriots still haven’t revealed their names lest the cynics – who are legion in our midst – say the noble deed was done for “name, fame and gain”.

Why! They even broke the cardinal rule of canny businessmen to keep records for audits, paper trails and such like. How’d you insist on such grubby details when you’re working for God and Country? They didn’t even wait for a corporation to be formed with the government front men on the Independence bash. That the number two APNU man was on the Board was enough for them.

This was a chap who’d read Languages up at Cambridge – a gentleman’s word was his bond, wot?

Time was of the essence! And so, not a murmur of protest was raised when all their sterling efforts – not to mention that $798 MILLION – wasn’t enough and they were shunted aside to complete the job. The main thing was the show must go on!! And by golly, it did go on.

A lump rose in their collective throats when that giant Golden Arrowhead was raised – even when some of them had to be moved out of their VVIP seats when the Opposition – who were expected to boycott – showed up!!

But now to be told had to take a 43% haircut!!!???

The Businessmen are livid! What the *@^K!!! Did Winston Jordan think the days of Co-operativism were back? When you bought high and sold low? They’ve just held a meeting and worked out a plan of action. Your Eyewitness, who has a source embedded in their ranks, was pretty sure it would work. They just wouldn’t give the Ministers any presents this Christmas. Two could play this Scrooge game!!

Expect the $298M to be snucked in early next year!!

…for the PPP

Those boxing fans who’ve been following the fight game for a while would remember the classic build-up to the Sugar Ray Leonard-Roberto Duran matchup. For the longest while these two welter weights dominated the sport like no other and in 1980 came their classic two fights. In the first one Leonard tried to duke it out with Duran and lost. But in the second one later in the year, Leonard fought his own fight and by the eight round Duran had to mumble his infamous “No Mas! No Mas! (No more!!)

Well, the spit press had built-up the PPP Congress at Essequibo as a classic battle between Bharrat Jagdeo and some contenders for the undisputed leadership of the party. Like the Leonard-Duran battle. But here in the Cinderella County there wasn’t even need of a rematch!

Jagdeo outpointed the rest of the field by such a margin, it was “No Mas” all the way!! Next title, GS!!

…for Hamilton Green

Winston Jordan defended his government’s decision to pay Hamilton Green $20,580,000 annually via a Special Bill. Said the man was a Prime Minister and should get a PM’s pension. OK…fair enough.

But why not based on 7/8ths of HIS old salary as the law stipulates?

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

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wednesDAY, december 21, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

Border controversy

Guyana ready for last shot at Good Offices Process - Greenidge

F

oreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge on Tuesday said that although Guyana was hoping to move away from the Good Offices Process, it is now willing to go the course one last time to see a final resolution to the Guyana/Venezuela border controversy.

Giving an official address to the National Assembly, Minister Greenidge said he

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge addressing the National Assembly on Tuesday

is sure the announcement would be applauded by every member of the house.

He said Guyana is hoping that with the decision by the Secretary-General, the way ahead will follow the path he has identified, and end once and for all the overly continued aggression by the Spanish speaking nation.

“If by the end of 2017, the Secretary-General concludes that significant progress has not been made in arriving to a full agreement on the controversy, he will choose the International Court of Justice as a next medium of settlement unless the Governments of Guyana and Venezuela requests that he does not.”

Greenidge told the house that the new SecretaryGeneral will name a new personal representative, who will lead the parties in the final year of the process.

According to him, Guyana has already assured its commitment to engage in the process and efforts to make it a success. The Minister said Guyana had lost faith in the Good Offices Process, particularly because of the role Venezuela played in stymieing progress.

“But we are willing to give it one last try, facilitated by the Secretary General’s nominee. But obviously, it is a process that can only produce satisfactory results if Venezuela cooperates fully to that end.

Guyana will cooperate in resolving the controversy,” he said.

Guyana had in 2014 indicated that it was opting out of the Good Offices Process, which was on the other hand fully embraced by its Spanish speaking counterpart. The country’s position was that the process was doing very little to bring satisfaction and closure to the issue which has been prevailing for decades.

Making its official announcement Friday last, the Secretary-General, Ban KiMoon, said it has reached the conclusion that the Good Offices Process will continue for one final year, with a new personal representative of the SecretaryGeneral, with a strengthened mandate of mediation, who will be appointed by the Secretary-General designate shortly after he takes office.

The release said if, by the end of 2017, the Secretary General concludes that significant progress has not been made toward arriving at a full agreement for the solution of the con-

troversy, he will choose the International Court of Justice as the next means of settlement, unless both parties jointly request that he refrain from doing so.

Guyana, on the verge of becoming a lucrative oilproducing nation, received a decree from Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in May last year purporting to claim the majority of Guyana’s waters off the Essequibo shore.

The decree was seen as a flagrant violation of international law and was inconsistent with the principle that all states should respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other states.

In an effort to defend its sovereignty, Guyana made it clear to the Venezuelan Government that the Essequibo and its offshore waters belong to Guyana, and strengthened its push for judicial settlement of the issue, as the Good Officer process had yielded little result.

The border dispute between the two countries was set by an international tribunal in 1899, in an award the parties, including Venezuela, had agreed would be the final settlement. Since the belligerence from Venezuela, moves have

Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro along with President David Granger pictured with outgoing United Nations' Secretary General Ban Ki-moon

been made by the international community, including the UN Secretary-General, to push for a peaceful resolution of the issue.

The Guyanese leader and President Maduro had met with the outgoing UN Secretary-General for the first time in September last year to discuss the controversy. The meeting was dubbed fruitful as both Heads pledged to mend the bilateral relationship, while attempts are being made to resolve the border controversy.

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wednesDAY, december 21, 2016

News

New complex for Food, Drug Department

T

he Public Health Ministry will be undertaking the construction of a modern multimillion-dollar complex in 2017, to house the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GAFDD).

This department, under the programme of Policy Development and Administration of the Public Health Ministry, will be able to carry out its mandate in a more efficient manner, a release from the Government Information Agency (GINA) stated.

The GA-FDD serves as a regulatory body, ensuring that consumable goods

The Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), located in the compound of the University of Guyana, where the Government Analyst–Food and Drug Department is currently housed

(drugs, food and beverages) meet international standards and requirements, and are healthy for human consumption. The de-

partment also ensures that when these items are imported they are screened, meeting local standards before being released to the

market for sale.

Public Health Minister Dr George Norton, while making his contribution to the 2017 Budget debate, explained the details of this upcoming project. The total cost for constructing and equipping the building is $130.7 million, GINA noted.

“Included in this programme is the construction of a laboratory and administrative building for the Food and Drug Department for $110 million. A further $20.7 million will be used to procure laboratory supplies, quality control aids and proficiency testing materials,” Minister Norton explained.

TURN TO PAGE 12

Gold Rings S

atiricus wasn’t feeling too much in the Christmas spirit right now. He’d just had to wait overnight at the airport for his wife’s cousin Georgie, but he never showed on account of his plane never showing up at JFK Airport in New York.

“I always told you Georgie was a cheapskate,” he grumbled to his wife Caustic, as they drove slowly home in their jalopy.

“What did he do now?” demanded Caustic heatedly.

She agreed with Satiricus, but felt honour-bound to defend her family’s honour.

“Why did he have to book a cheap-charter flight?” said Satiricus with some irritation. “The way he carries on about all the houses he owns in Richmond Hill, he should be flying in on his own private jet!”

“Let’s not get carried away now, Sato,” said Caustic mildly. “If he saves on the passage… he’ll have more to spend on us!”

“Spend? Him? Georgie spending on us?” retorted Satiricus with growing outrage. “The last time he visited, we had to even buy him coconut water!”

"OK, Mr Last-of-the-Big-Time-Spenders,” said Caustic, as she tried to change the subject. “How many gold rings did you buy me today?”

“Gold rings?” asked a puzzled Satiricus. “Why do I have to buy you gold rings?”

“It’s just five more days to Christmas, you know.” And with that announcement, Caustic burst into song, “On the fifth day of Christmas my true love sent to me: Five Golden Rings; Four Calling Birds; Three French Hens; Two Turtle Doves; and a Partridge in a Pear Tree.”

Satiricus was disarmed – but not entirely. He said with a smile, “Well, seeing how we don’t have Partridges and French Hens and all that in Guyana, I asked Georgie to bring them from New York!”

“OK… Now I know I’ll never get them!” Caustic confessed. “That Georgie always was cheap. Almost like your Finance Minister!!”

“Almost!” admitted Satiricus. “Jer Dan is in a class by himself! If he can tax water, what will he do with French Hens?!”

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news

wednesDAY, december 21, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

Jordan tables tax increase Massy awards bills in Parliament Breeze Christmas

F

inance Minister Winston Jordan introduced a number of bills in the National Assembly on Tuesday, which will bring into effect the amendments for several taxes increased in the 2017 National Budget.

Among the bills tabled for amendment are the Income Tax Bill 2016, The Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Bill 2016, Corporation Tax Bill 2016, Capital Gains Tax Bill 2016, Value Added Tax Customs Bill 2016, Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Bill 2016, Miscellaneous Licences Bill 2016, Tax Bill 2016 and Travel Voucher Tax Bill 2016.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan

However, the bills will have to be debated for passage in the National Assembly.

Jordan also presented a

number of reports, including the Travel Tax Regulation 2016, the VAT (Amendment) Regulation 2016, the Customs Regulation 2016, the Excise Tax Regulation 2016, and the Customs Order 2016.

Budget 2017, which has come under heavy criticism from the public and the Private Sector, allows for the reduction of VAT from 16 per cent to 14 per cent and the addition of VAT on water bills exceeding $1500 per month, and electricity bills exceeding $10,000 per month. There were also a number of increases, which included an increase in the VAT threshold from

$10 million to $15 million, and extension of the list of VAT exempted items and the removal of zero-rated items.

The Budget proposes an increase in the tax threshold from $660,000 per annum to $720,000 per annum, a reduction in the Personal Income Tax rate from 30 per cent to 28 per cent for individuals earning less than $180,000 per month, a new rate of 40 per cent to be applied to the incomes of individuals earning in excess of $2,160,000 per annum. There was also an increase of departure tax payable by persons leaving Guyana from $2500 to $3500.

Promotion winners

The participants standing in front of their shopping carts

M

assy Group of Companies on Tuesday afternoon at its Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) branch rewarded the winners of its Breeze Christmas Promotion.

Twentyyear-old Sheneer Reed was moved to tears after receiving the grand prize of a car, following her drawing the winning number.

The other winners include Audel Evans, Annie De France, Sheldon Bobb, Arjoon Boodram, Kavita Ramkumar, Swarswati Persuad, Nandrani Ramkaran, and Devika Singh.

Three of them walked away with scooters, while the other five were all rewarded with jumbo hampers.

The winners were on Friday selected during a drawing at Massy.

On Tuesday, those winners were then made to select a numbered decorative

ball from a Christmas tree and asked to stand in front of a shopping cart with the corresponding number.

Following this, they were made to reveal what they had won by uncovering a card, which was placed in the shopping cart in front of them. Loud cheers could be heard as the winners revealed what they won.

The Breeze Christmas Promotion commenced in October, and customers were asked to enter the promotion by placing two 375-gram pack or larger of Breeze, in an envelope with their name, address and phone number and drop it into entry boxes at stores located nationwide.

For those who use the Breeze liquid, they were asked to place those bills in envelopes with the same information and place them in boxes at stores located nationwide.

All are encouraged to use Breeze and get in on the action.

New complex...

FROM PAGE 10

Equipment and Laboratory supplies that will be procured include the purchasing of fume hood and a steam digester both for the excise laboratory at a cost of $11.2 million, two incubators and a hot air oven for the Microbiology laboratory at a cost of $2 million and five analytical balances for all the laboratories at a cost of $7.5 million.

The Food and Drug Department is currently housed at the Institute of Applied Science and Technology on the University of Guyana campus in Turkeyen. The new GA-FDD facility will add to the overall upgrading of health testing facilities and regulatory bodies locally.

“In addition, the National Public Health Reference Laboratory will also aim to strengthen its quality management system with the end goal of achieving the

accreditation of the international organisation for standards, relating to quality management systems requirement. This will certainly minimise our dependence on overseas.”

The policy development and administration programme of the Public Health Ministry serves to ensure that there is an efficient coordination and management of human, financial and physical resources. These elements are all necessary for the success of the administration for the Ministry’s operations.

Under this programme, $100 million has also been set aside for the reconstruction of the Public Health Ministry’s headquarters. In 2009, the then Ministry of Health’s head office was destroyed by fire and was not considered for reconstruction until now.

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wednesDAY, december 21, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

Foundation brightens Christmas for fallen heroes’ families

Holiday shopping blues

Linden businesses bemoan T slothful economic activity

W

Vendors in Linden are hopeful for the holiday rush from consumers

ith just a few days left until Christmas, Linden businesses are bemoaning the slothful holiday shopping so far experienced, and some have said that this is the "worst" year that they have experienced. Usually around this time of the year, there is an increase in commercial sales, but for many businesses in the Linden community, they are yet to experience the holiday rush.

Guyana Times visited a number of businesses in the major shopping areas around Mackenzie to solicit their views on the holiday shopping atmosphere, and to compare it to last year. While some remain optimistic that there will be an increase in sales by the weekend, others are not so certain. One vendor told this publication that "shopping now start pick up”, while another declared, “It ain't start pick up yet, say around Friday, Saturday time. Last year around this time, it didn't start pick up yet. It will pick up, but within the last moment."

Speaking with this publication, a popular vendor, Curtis (only name given) said business was slow this year as he pointed to some level of prioritising by customers. He explained, "This year slower.

Last year time like this, it had already started to pick up.”

The vendor expressed hope that business would improve later on in the week.

"It's not like first time. Like three years back, it was nicer, but the last two years (shaking his head). Last year it get slow, this year it more slow.

We might only get a two-day sales – Friday and Saturday and then that's it,” Curtis continued.

Asked what he believed may be responsible for the slothfulness in sales, he said, "Money ain't circulating so much you know. Remember people got other bills… so they can't spend so much. And January month does be a hard month."

Meanwhile, Joan Caesar of Chanzar's Enterprise says she believes that shopping in Linden is centred around the final week before Christmas, and remains optimistic that the shopping atmosphere will improve as the weekend draws closer.

"Linden is one week Christmas. Even in town it ain't looking like Christmas.

People just going about their ordinary shopping – you find that people try to clean and then come out and shop. You find people waiting on their bonus or the lil’ box money… things will pick up. It may not go to the pitch as we expect it, but we have to say it will,” she noted. Another vendor along the Mackenzie arcade who wishes to remain anonymous explained that things were slowly picking up.

"It's coming to come. It picking up a little, but it's not a hundred per cent. Last year,

oh larsh! Last year was better than this year. At least it pick up over the last couple weeks though. People like last-minute shopping and people waiting for the lil’ bonus money before they come and shop", the vendor said.

Another vendor explained that while the flow of consumers was difficult to predict, for now it seemed like normal shopping in Linden. She too exclaimed that the shopping season was the worst that she has seen so far. "We need money in Linden… This year is the worst year ever.

Time like this we don't even get market goods, but now, if you see how much we get.

Normally, Monday will tell you how the week will run.

If nothing else, you would get a good sale on Monday, but I ain't know what going on.

Last year every minute you had to be running to town to buy more goods, sometimes two, three times a week. Some people coming saying how they waiting on some money that is supposed to pay, everybody waiting on their bonus.

Let dem make haste pay it," she exclaimed.

Another business owner Ronnel Mingo echoed similar sentiments regarding the slothfulness of sales.

"It slow, very slow, but at least last year around this time it started to pick up. Last year was slow, but not as slow as this year. I'm hoping that by weekend, things start to pick up," she said.

he Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Fallen Heroes Foundation (FHF) continues to provide assistance to the families of Policemen and women killed in the line of duty. This time, the Foundation brightened the Christmas holidays for seven families.

A total of $450,000 was presented to the families

by FHF Vice President, Professor Winston McGowan on Tuesday morning at the Police Officers’ Mess Annex, Eve Leary, Georgetown.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, FHF Chairman, Pastor Raphael Massiah, noted that since the establishment of the Foundation two years ago, they have been able to provide assistance to children under18 years, whose fathers lost their lives while on duty.

To date, some 25 children have benefited from the initiative, with assistance and support in the areas of welfare and education.

“We serve, we travel wherever these members are and we try to find out the issues they are faced with. Today we deliver what we hope will be some measure of support to the members of the Fallen Heroes Foundation. We try to do what we have to do with a human hand and as much as possible, so you can know that, not just the Police Force, but the entire nation, is indebted for the service of your loved one,” the Chairman remarked. He went on to reflect on the dignity and respect with which men and women in uniform are treated overseas and the preferential treatment they get, adding that while Guyana is

a long way from such a culture, this initiative is a step in the right direction to recognise those fallen heroes, who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the country, even after they are gone.

“You might be reflecting on your loved ones, we can’t replace them but we want to come side by side with you and your children at this time,” Pastor Massiah told the partners of the slain ranks.

According to the GPF, some 64 Police officers were killed in the line of fire since 1913, with nine of them having lost their lives from

reporters that while she has been coping since her reputed husband’s death back in March, it has been difficult.

Nevertheless, she said she is grateful for the assistance provided by the Fallen Heroes Foundation, noting that this is her second time receiving it.

At a memorial wreath laying ceremony to pay tribute to the fallen Policemen and women back in July, Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud had disclosed that the Foundation had managed to collect some $2.7 million from each divisional com-

Some of the recipients along with the members of the Fallen Heroes Foundation

2010 to date. The most recent law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty were Constable Antonio Dawson who was stabbed in September 2015 while apprehending a suspect at Gafoors Complex at Houston, Greater Georgetown, and Leonard La Rose who was also stabbed while arresting a suspect who was wanted for rape at Mathews Ridge.

La Rose’s reputed wife, with whom he shared three children, was among the recipients of the monetary assistance on Tuesday. She told

mander so far.

This amount is separate from the donations given by Government officials, including President David Granger, and members of the business community. “The suffering of the spouses and children of these men and women who were killed in the line of duty often times go unnoticed, therefore I assure you all that there will be greater economic support to these families,” the Police Commissioner had stated as he called for a national day to be set aside to remember its fallen heroes.

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wednesday, deceMber 21, 2016

News Piracy, smuggling raised during high-level Guyana-Suriname meeting I

n an effort to boost cooperation, the top brass of the Guyana Police Force and the Korps Politie Suriname met on Tuesday to discuss a range of issues aimed at strengthening enforcement at the countries’ shared border, as well as improve relations between the two agencies.

A delegation from the neighbouring country, headed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Guno Roosenhoff, is currently in Guyana on a twoday exchange visit. This is a follow-up to a visit by local Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud to Suriname back in April when he invited the Surinamese Force to Guyana after interest was expressed in his brain-child project – the Social Crime Prevention Programme – and female policing initiatives.

Speaking at a press conference following a meeting on Tuesday, Commissioner Persaud disclosed that among the topics discussed during the high-level briefing were organised crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, piracy, cross-border crimes and goods smuggling. Heads of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) and the Guyana Revenue Authority’s Customs and Trade Division were also present during the meeting.

The Top Cop noted that of recent, there has been much interaction between the two law enforcement agencies and the collaboration has been fruitful, especially with the recent arrest and hand-over of convicted drug lord Barry Dataram by the Surinamese authorities.

He posited that this success would continue in the future now that the two bodies were able to establish con-

Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud (third from right); Assistant Commissioner of Police Guno Roosenhoff of the Korps Politie Suriname (centre); CANU Head James Singh and other members of the Guyana and Suriname delegations

tacts with the various counterpart law enforcement entities.

Persaud explained that with new officials in place within both Police Forces, this meeting provided the opportunity for the hierarchy to be familiarised with each other as well as iron out arrangements with regard to information sharing.

In fact, he revealed that the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) representative had passed on information to the Surinamese delegation regarding trends and syndicates. He added that the development of joint targeting measures may follow this process.

Moreover, the Commissioner noted that smuggling across the Guyana-Suriname border continued to be an area of focus for both authorities.

To this end, he said the already joint efforts to monitor smuggling in all its forms between the neighbouring

States would be enhanced following the two-day visit by the Surinamese delegation.

“The thing is with organised crime, intelligence is our bread and butter and sometimes the information is there, but half of it is on the Suriname side and half of it is on the Guyana side.

We will now bring it together, get a good picture and then target jointly,” he posited. In terms of efforts to tackle smuggling, the officials were asked about the installation of technology at the border; however, Seelall pointed out that this was dependent on the extent to which it would assist and how accessible it was in terms of cost, taking into consideration both agencies work with budgets and have the same reality of being in a developing country.

Furthermore, asked whether there would be any regularisation of backtracking at the Guyana-Suriname

border, both officials explained that they were focused on policing and leave such matters to the policymakers.

“We look at issues that we can work and we choose to go with them…our interest is smuggling and we have been dealing with that and we continue to address smuggling to evade taxes and smuggling of contraband moving in both directions,” Seelall remarked.

Nevertheless, the Police Commissioner added that the regularisation of backtracking activities was something that the authorities on both sides had on the formal agenda for many years.

Persaud’s stance was supported by his Surinamese colleague, Roosenhoff, who noted that the Police were focused on stopping crime.

“Police do the operations; we don’t do politics,” he stated.

On the other hand, with regard to the issue of piracy,

Persaud related that there was only so much the Police Force in Guyana could do in

terms of surveillance given the limited resources available. In the same breath, he mentioned the multi-agency task force that has a specific focus on piracy and has been conducting aerial surveillance within Guyana’s territory.

On the issue of piracy, the Surinamese official explained that the recent detainment of the Guyanese fishermen who were found in Surinamese waters was a “labour matter” and not a Police one.

“The moment you are working on a boat in Suriname waters, then you have a problem,” Roosenhoff said. He added that while the boat licence was issued

by Suriname authorities to work in the country’s territorial waters, the Guyanese labourers/fishermen were illegal in the vessel and illegal in Suriname waters, hence the owner was fined for each crew member.

Policemen busted with large quantity of ganja … under close arrest

The car in which the marijuana was found

T

wo policemen are now under close arrest in New Amsterdam after a quantity of marijuana was discovered in a car belonging to one of the officers.

The ranks were on Monday afternoon busted with five kilos of cannabis.

Both Constables are attached to the Traffic Department in New Amsterdam. Reports are that one of the ranks, who was on official business on the West Coast of Berbice, and was at the time driving a minibus belonging to the Force was seen stopping a car. At that time, the rank who owns a car, was the only person in the bus.

After the car was stopped, the driver came out of the vehicle carrying a parcel in his hand and boarded the bus.

Reports are that the bus then pulled off and stopped a short distance away. The driver of the car then exited without the parcel.

Guyana Times understands that the rank telephoned another rank and asked him to take his car to Vrymens Erven, which is situated in New Amsterdam.

When the bus arrived, it is alleged that the parcel was transferred to the car and both vehicles went back to central Police Station.

Commander of B Division (Berbice), Errol Watts, was informed of the suspicious transaction on the West Coast of Berbice, and lay in wait for the two Constables.

When they arrived, several senior officers were called and informed of the situation.

The owner of the car refused to hand over the keys to the Commander, claiming that he did not know where they were.

Reports are that the officer said his friend had borrowed his car and if anything was found inside, he would not be guilty.

Watts ordered that the car be broken into. When the trunk was opened, two plastic bags containing what was suspected to be cannabis was found. It was weighed in the presence of the two traffic Police. Both suspects are under close arrest. Police are now looking for the man who left the parcel in the Police bus.

wednesday, december 21, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

15

News

Bandits dressed as Policemen Thousands may break into sugar worker’s home have fled to China −cart off cash, $2M in jewellery due to fighting A A West Berbice man is alleging that Police ranks attached to the Fort Wellington Police Station broke into his home on Monday and carted off with a number of articles, cash and $2 million worth in jewellery.

The Blairmont Estate cane harvester, of Cotton Tree Village, in Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice) says he was not at home when the perpetrators entered his home.

According to Amzad Hoosain he had gone to the back of the yard and upon his return, he found that his front door was broken.

His father, Saffie Hoosain 76, told this publication that four men dressed in blue shirts and blacks pants walked into the yard situated at Lot 15 Cotton Tree Public Road and asked for Amzad. “I tell them that he not at home and they go upstairs and broke the door.”

The senior Hoosain said the men went to the second

Amzad Hoosain displaying the empty pouch which he claims the jewellery was taken from

story where his son lived, taking with them two spades.

“But they did not use the spade to break the door; they kick it down and one of the bolt fall out and two dem go in; one stay down here and

the other one went up the step. They open up the back door and the veranda door,” he related.

Hoosain told Guyana Times that after a while, the men came out of the house

taking several items, including two cutlasses.

Meanwhile, Amzad said he discovered his door ajar and a pair of footwear missing along with a neck tie, two cutlasses, two files, and jewellery among other items.

He said that the matter was reported to the Fort Wellington Police Station and up to Tuesday midday, no one had visited the scene.

According to Amzad, he was not aware of the men’s attire and the fact that they were dressed as Policemen until he received the details from his father, after making the report.

He explained that the jewellery was in a wardrobe in one of the two bedrooms, in the upper flat of the building.

He referred to the jewellery as being ‘old gold’.

In tears, Amzad showed this publication three chains; two silver and one gold which he said were not taken.

ExxonMobil awards key contracts for Liza oil development, production

U

nited States (US) oil and Gas Exploration company ExxonMobil’s subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), on Tuesday announced that it has awarded contracts to SBM Offshore for a floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel, a key step in moving the Liza field toward first production.

“Liza development activities are steadily progressing, and we’re excited to reach this important milestone.”

Under the contracts, SBM Offshore will perform front end engineering and design for the FPSO and subject to a final investment decision on the project in 2017, will construct, install and operate the vessel.

“Liza development activities are steadily progressing, and we’re excited to reach this important milestone. “We look forward to working with the Government of Guyana to develop its valuable resources, which have the potential to provide long-term, sustainable benefits to the country,”

Neil Duffin, President of ExxonMobil Development Company, said in a statement on Tuesday.ExxonMobil submitted an application for a production licence and its initial development plan for the Liza field in early December. The development plan, submitted to the Natural Resources Ministry, includes development drilling, operation of the FPSO, and subsea, umbilical, riser and flowline systems.

The Liza field has a potential recoverable resource estimate in excess of one billion

oil-equivalent barrels and is located in the Stabroek block approximately 120 miles (193 kilometres) offshore Guyana.

The Stabroek block currently comprises 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited is the operator and holds a 45 per cent interest in the Stabroek block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds a 30 per cent interest, and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited holds a 25 per cent interest.

Corentyne pirate attack

Police to seek legal advice on charges for missing fishermen

A

lmost seven months after the dastardly high-seas piracy attack, Police are expected to seek further legal advice on instituting charges against the five perpetrators for the missing fishermen.

Head of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Wendell Blanhum told reporters on Tuesday that he has already asked the Divisional Detective Officer in B Division (Berbice) to submit the file. The Crime Chief explained that based on the advice from the Police Legal Advisor, the Police continued its searches for three missing men but they were futile.

“We did several other searches. We searched an extensive area where it was alleged the bodies were thrown overboard but came up with nothing,” he posited. To this end, Blanhum stated that they are going back for legal advice and is positive they will get the go ahead to institute charges for the missing men. “I think it’s an opportune time for us now to return the file to the Police Legal Advisor and I’m very certain that she is going to advise that we institute the other murder charges against the suspects,” he remarked, while adding that the file will be handed over soon.

According to Police reports, cutlass-wielding pirates attacked a crew of Guyanese fishermen at about 23:00h on May 27, 2016, dumping the five fishermen over board and carting off with their outboard motor.

The captain, Seepersaud Persaud, was rescued by another fishing boat, but one of his crew members, Hemchand Sukhdeo of Number 55 Village, Corentyne, died and his body was recovered. However, Dhanpaul Rampaul of Number 67 Village; Dochand “Bucher”, 54, of Number 55 Village, Corentyne; and 26-year old Munesh “Boyo”

Churram have not since been seen or heard from.

The perpetrators allegedly told investigators they threw the men overboard with anchors tied to their bodies.

Ramchand Latchman, Ganesh Naidoo, Leon Sammy, Stephen Leacock and Ramesh Singh all of Corentyne, were subsequently charged with the capital offence of murder under the Piracy Act back in June and were remanded to prison. They were caught at the Number 65 Village Foreshore, Corentyne, in a boat matching the description given to Police.

s many as 15,000 people have fled across Myanmar's border into China in the past month as fighting between the army and armed ethnic groups intensifies, the United Nations says.

Aid access to people affected by conflict in the northern states of Kachin and Shan "is getting worse, not better", Pierre Peron, a spokesman for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Myanmar, said by email.

The OCHA said in an update on Monday that, as well as the estimated 15,000 new refugees, another 2400 people have been displaced internally in the northern part of Shan state since November 20, when a coalition of four rebel armies attacked military and Police outposts.

Dozens have also drowned trying to cross the river that separates Myanmar from Malaysia. The Government

of Myanmar has already banned its citizens from working in Malaysia.

Weeks of clashes and the new displacements have damaged Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi's hopes of securing peace in the long-running conflicts in the mountainous border areas, a goal she has made her administration's top priority.

Observers fear that Suu Kyi's fledgling civilian administration is unable to rein in the army, which retains political power and is free from civilian oversight.

Critics have accused her of turning a blind eye to the plight of Rohingya ethnic minority, who have faced discrimination from the authorities for decades.

Echoing a November 30 UN statement, Amnesty International on Sunday said abuse of the ethnic minorities based mostly in western Rakhine state might "amount to crimes against humanity". (Excerpt from

Al Jazeera)

Germany frees suspect in market attack, says perpetrator maybe still at large

Tributes to the victims of the attack at the site (BBC News)

G

erman authorities on Tuesday released a Pakistani asylumseeker suspected of driving a truck into a Berlin Christmas market and killing 12 people due to a lack of evidence and the Interior Minister said the real perpetrator may still be on the run.

The truck smashed into wooden huts serving mulled wine and sausages on Monday evening at the foot of the Kaiser Wilhelm memorial church, one of West Berlin's most famous landmarks. Forty-five people were injured, 30 severely.

Islamic State claimed responsibility the attack, saying the perpetrator was a "soldier" of the militant group.

"He executed the operation in response to calls to target nationals of the coalition countries," its AMAQ news agency said.

But Germany's Interior Minister said that despite the claim, investigators were

following various leads.

"We just heard about the supposed claim of responsibility by this so-called Islamic State that is in fact a gang of terrorists," Minister Thomas de Maiziere told ARD broadcaster. "There are several leads that investigators are following now."

The Chief Federal Prosecutor's Office said in a statement it had been unable to prove that the suspect had been in the cabin of the truck at the time of the attack and said he had denied any involvement.

Earlier, Die Welt newspaper quoted an unnamed police chief as saying: "We have the wrong man. And therefore a new situation.

The true perpetrator is still armed, at large and can cause fresh damage."

Commenting on the suspect's release, de Maiziere told ZDF television: "That's why it is true that one cannot rule out that the perpetrator is still at large." (Excerpt from Reuters)

16 news

wednesDAY, december 21, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

Low water pressure, poor quality plague Region 2 residents R

esidents living in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), particularly housewives, are complaining bitterly about the obnoxious stench emanating from the tap water supplied by the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) to communities within the region.

According to those affected, the water supplied is of poor quality.

The residents describe this situation as "unfair" since they are required to pay for the service, despite the poor quality of water delivered. Those most affected hail from several areas in the region including Suddie, Golden Fleece and Supenaam. The consumers also explained that since the beginning of 2016, the water pressure has been very low and many times does not reach their taps. In addition, the stench from the water is

Residents have complained about the poor quality and low pressure of water coming through their taps

unbearable.

"The water smells really bad, you can't really do any-

thing in your home with it except wash your concrete etc, the service has real-

ly dropped compared to the previous years, something needs to be done," a housewife related.

Consumers are therefore calling on GWI officials to investigate the cause of the stench and the continued low pressure. As a result of the situation, many persons are forced to fetch water from nearby drainage trenches to complete their chores. Some have to depend on rain water to clean their homes for the holiday season; the situation has caused great inconvenience to many.

Residents living in areas between Three Friends to Supenaam are demanding treated water in the near future. In an effort to garner feedback and to provide some insight into the situation, this publication attempted to contact GWI officials; however, calls went unanswered.

More than 200 children benefit from IAC Christmas outreach

IAC Children’s Christmas Party at Virginia Primary School, Cane Grove, ECD

T

he Indian Action Committee (IAC) hosted its annual Christmas outreach on Sunday, December 18, 2016 at Virginia Primary School, Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara (ECD), which was attended by more than 200 less fortunate children from the village.

The IAC provided each child with food and refreshments.

The IAC also entertained the children with music by Vijay Sound System of Enmore, ECD, which played a mixture of Christmas songs and chutney music – the latter to which some of the children danced to competitions for best male and female dancer; all dancers were provided with gifts, the organisation outlined in a release.

After all the children had eaten and the dancing competitions were over, each child was presented with a gift and a party bag containing cake, sandwiches, biscuits, lollipops, sweets and balloon by Santa Claus, who was performed by a person from the village of Cane Grove.

“The IAC wishes to express its gratitude to Gafoors, Sachi and Ashmins which allowed the organisation in its toy drive to place marked boxes at these locations and all those persons who generously dropped off toys in these boxes; and other

generous donors who donated toys; and the following donors: Bakewell for providing all the bread to make sandwiches; Banks DIH Limited for a number of Icee drinks; DDL for Topco juices, CIDI for Juicly juices; Guyana Beverage Inc for Chubby soft drinks and Kool Kidz juices; ANSA McAL Trading for Mak-C drink mix; Survival Supermarket and Edward D Beharry and Co Ltd for sweets,” the release added. The IAC also expressed gratitude to Deryck Persaud, Regional Executive Officer of Region Four; and Tiffany Harvey, acting Regional Education Officer for permitting the use of the school for the event.

Special thanks was also extended to Bibi Ramnarine, Deputy Head Mistress of Virginia Primary School; Neemawattie Baldeo, Chairperson of Cane Grove NDC and a number of villagers who volunteered to decorate, to organise the children, and to clean after the event.

The IAC over the last decade has brought joy and happiness to thousands of less fortunate children from all ethnic backgrounds and from all different religious backgrounds at its previous Christmas parties and will continue this tradition as long as the organisation remains in existence.

17

news

wednesday, december 21, 2016 | guyanatimesgy.com

Lindeners affected by Hampton Court accident constant power outages Motorcyclist died from −electricity being supplied via shift system

O

ver the past few months, communities across Linden, in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) have been affected by an increase in power outages due to issues encountered by the main power supplier, Bosai Minerals Group Guyana Incorporated (BMGGI). The intermittent daily power outages have resulted in both Wismar and Mackenzie being without electricity for hours at a time. Residents have expressed dissatisfaction over the frequent outages and have expressed frustration at the situation, particularly during this festive season. Presently, Wismar and Mackenzie are reportedly being supplied with electricity via a shift system.

The Wismar community, however, which receives electricity through the Linden Utility Services Coop Society Limited (LUSCSL) has been affected more than Mackenzie, which is being served through the Linden Electricity Company Incorporated (LECI). Over the past few days, there has been an increase in the frequency of daily outages at Wismar.

However, in a recent

televised notice to residents in the community, the LUSCSL apologised to consumers on the Wismar shore, pointing to the fact that the issue lies within Bosai. "The Linden Utility Services Coop Society Limited apologises to members/consumers for the periodic power outages being experienced. This is due to technical difficulties at Bosai's power station which is causing insufficient power supply to Wismar. Management regrets any inconvenience caused during these periods and is looking for an early solution to the current situation," the statement noted. Meanwhile, during a visit by Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman to the

company back in August, Bosai Company Secretary Norman McLean, had cited the frequent blackouts in the community as one of the company's major issues and pointed out that the company, which is tasked with providing electricity, has eight "old" Wärtsilä generators.

"I don't want to have what we had before, which is long blackouts and we have to stop production.

Maybe that is what we need to do, stop production so that the community can get power… we are stating the challenges and we are fighting," he had said, while adding that the company is looking forward for Government to be an active partner in providing assistance.

From left: Joshua Collins and Leroy Forde

T

− driver for court today

T

Teens jailed for robbery under arms

he two Charlestown teenagers who were charged for carrying out two counts of robbery under arms in September were on Tuesday afternoon jailed by Magistrate Annette Singh when they appeared before her at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Leroy Forde, 18, and Joshua Collins, 17, were charged with robbing Kendal Short of a cell phone, on September 26, 2016 at Bishop Street, Werk-en-Rust.

Additionally, the two were charged with robbing Andrew Nurse of his

multiple injuries – autopsy

Toyota Premio motor car valued $2.5 million.

After announcing to the two that the evidence presented against them was sufficient and that they were found guilty as charged, the Magistrate handed down her sentence.

Forde was sentenced to spend 48 months behind bars for each of the two charges, while Collin was sentenced to 36 months each.

According to the facts of the matter, Nurse had just stepped out of his vehicle when the two teens approached him and pressed a gun to his neck.

They then proceeded to shove him to the floor after which they relieved him of his keys and made off with his vehicle.

However, the two were hunted by Police and were found in the vehicle whose registration plates they had changed.

The vehicle and the men were positively identified by the Virtual Complainant (VC) and as such, they were arrested and charged with the offence.

They will both now be spending the holidays behind bars, regretting their actions.

he autopsy conducted on 62-year-old Bajnauth Samaroo, also known as “Suresh” of Hampton Court in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) revealed that he died as a result of multiple injuries. The examination was conducted

by Government Pathologist, Dr Nehaul Singh on Tuesday morning at the Suddie mortuary. Samaroo succumbed on December 15 after he was involved in an accident on the Hampton Court public road.

According to the Police, the accident occurred on December 15, 2016 at around 18:35h on the Essequibo Coast, and involved a motor

The motorcycle the deceased was riding

side of Hampton Court public road, while the driver of the motorcar was proceeding in the same direction behind the motorcycle. The driver of the car, in an attempt to overtake,

The damaged car driven by Persaud

car bearing registration plates PJJ 5803 and a motorcycle.

Investigations revealed that the motorcyclist was proceeding North along the western

lost control and collided with the motorcyclist who was allegedly hit from the rear and flung into a drainage trench.

Samaroo was picked up in an unconscious state and rushed to the Suddie Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead. His body was later taken to the Suddie mortuary. The man was said to be returning from his sister's home when he met his demise. According to information reaching Guyana Times, the driver of the car, Nandram Persaud, also known as “Tony”, of La Belle Alliance, Essequibo Coast, is schedule to attend the Suddie Magistrate's Court today.

Possible charges will be levelled against him for allegedly causing the death of Samaroo.

Only recently, Dr Haimant Haimraj and Orissa Williams both lost their lives during two separate accidents on the Essequibo Coast.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

wednesday, december 21, 2016

ARCHIE

Your emotions will be difficult to control. Don’t let the past (March 21- bring you down or allow what April 19) someone says to cause you grief.

Remember the good things and make thoughtfulness, love and peace your mission.

ARIES

You need to live within TAURUS your means. It’s important to (April 20- know where you stand finanMay 20) cially. Moving into the new year with a strategy in place will help you keep your overhead to a minimum.

dilbert

Socialize with friends or GEMINI go shopping with someone (May 21June 20) who can help you find excellent bargains. Love is in the stars. Don’t hesitate to make a romantic gesture.

Be careful not to take on too much. Make it very clear (June 21- what you can and cannot do.

July 22) Refuse to let anyone take advantage of you, your time or your generosity. Don’t overspend.

CANCER

Peanuts

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Update your appearance or take better care of yourself and improve the way you treat others. A personal promise will bring positive change and stability.

Something you were countVIRGO ing on isn’t likely to unfold the (Aug. 23- way you expected. Remain Sept. 22) calm and think strategically how best to handle the outcome or disappointment. Choose intelligence over discord.

Calvin and Hobbes

Emotions will rise to the LIBRA surface if you discuss your (Sept. 23plans.

Someone will not be Oct. 23) happy with the choices you make. Stick to your decision if it’s what you really want.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

Emotionally charged spendSCORPIO ing will cause stress when the (Oct. 24bills come in. You cannot win Nov. 22) someone’s heart with an extravagant purchase. Kindness and consideration should be good enough. Use your imagination.

A physical improvement SAGITTARIUS will add to your appeal.

(Nov. 23- Preparing for the festive seaDec. 21) son and doing something nice for someone special will have an impact on your personal and professional lives.

solution for Last Published Puzzle

Stay within your budget.

CAPRICORN Spending too much will be (Dec. 22stressful when the bills arJan. 19) rive. Put more emphasis on being sincere and offering solutions instead of paying for others.

You must make a change AQUARIUS to a pending settlement, in(Jan. 20vestment or medical issue that Feb. 19) needs attention. Looking forward and preparing for the future will contribute to your success. Romance is highlighted.

RULES OF THE GAME: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed. 3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” is not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed. To contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe, write to Word Game, Kathleen Saxe, Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

Copyright 2015, Distributed by Universal Uclick for UFS

PISCES Discussions will help you (Feb. 20- get a better view of a situaMarch 20) tion that could end badly if too much time or money will be required. Stick to what is doable.

guyanatimesgy.com

wednESday, DECember 21, 2016

19

Jadeja’s maiden 7-for ensures India 4-0 series win

Indian fielders begin celebrating after the fall of the tenth wicket

I

n Mumbai, England had slipped to an innings defeat after batting first and scoring 400. In Chennai, they batted first again and scored 477. At lunch on the fifth day, they were 97 for no loss in their second innings, trailing by 185. This was a flatter pitch than Mumbai, less bouncy and a lot slower. Surely it couldn’t happen again?

It did. This time, they lost by an innings and 75 runs, their punishing seven-Test tour of the subcontinent ending at 3.56pm IST, with a draw nine overs away. In Mirpur, they had lost all ten wickets in one session. Here, in less frightening conditions, they lost all ten in 48.2 overs, for the addition of 104 runs, after their openers had added 103.

Ravindra Jadeja was India’s match-winner, taking seven wickets for the first time in a Test innings and ten for the first time in a match as well as grabbing two catches, including what was surely the catch of the series.

England, though, were their own worst enemy, batsman after batsman getting himself out to hasten India to a 4-0 series win.

England still had six wickets in hand when the final session began, and, in Moeen Ali and Ben Stokes, batsmen at the crease with three hun-

dreds between them in the series. But Jadeja hounded them, pounding the rough outside their off stump relentlessly. Moeen stepped out, looking to hit him off his length, and only found a leaping R Ashwin at mid-on.

Stokes went on the back foot, looking to work him with the turn. The ball stopped and popped to midwicket.

This was no longer an entirely flat pitch. It still wasn’t doing much for the bowlers from the Pattabiraman Gate End, but there was something in it now for those approaching from the Anna Pavilion End. England could have negotiated it if the decisions made by their top order hadn’t exposed Nos. 8 and 9 to it. Amit Mishra bowled the No. 8, Liam Dawson, with a googly as he looked to drive against the turn. Umesh Yadav had the No. 9, Adil Rashid, caught off the leading edge, at point, by, who else, Jadeja.

Out of the attack for seven overs, Jadeja returned with 12 overs remaining. Stuart Broad saw out the first over of his spell, but could do nothing about the first ball of the second; it jumped out of the rough as he stretched out to defend, and popped up off the glove to leg slip. Three balls later, it was all over. Turn and bounce again, this time to the right-handed Jake Ball.

SCOREBOARD England 1st innings 477 India 1st innings 759/7 dec England 2nd innings (Overnight 12/0) AN Cook* c Rahul b Jadeja 49 KK Jennings c & b Jadeja 54 JE Root lbw b Jadeja 6 MM Ali c Ashwin b Jadeja 44 JM Bairstow†c Jadeja b Sharma 1 BA Stokes c Nair b Jadeja 23 JC Buttler not out 6 LA Dawson b Mishra 0 AU Rashid c Jadeja b Yadav 2 SCJ Broad c Pujara b Jadeja 1

JT Ball c Nair b Jadeja 0 Extras (b 12, lb 8, w 1) 21 Total (all out; 88 overs) 207 Fall of wickets 1-103 (Cook, 39.4 ov), 2-110 (Jennings, 43.4 ov), 3-126 (Root, 49.6 ov), 4-129 (Bairstow, 52.2 ov), 5-192 (Ali, 71.2 ov), 6-193 (Stokes, 73.2 ov), 7-196 (Dawson, 74.6 ov), 8-200 (Rashid, 80.4 ov), 9-207 (Broad, 87.3 ov), 10-207 (Ball, 87.6 ov) Bowling; I Sharma 10-2-17-1, R Ashwin 25-6-56-0, RA Jadeja 25-5-48-7, UT Yadav 14-1-36-1 (w-1), A Mishra 14-4-30-1

The No. 11 poked, and Karun Nair caught the ball at slip.

Broad and Ball, the Nos. 10 and 11, were the only two England batsmen dismissed while trying to defend. It was an indictment of their approach after they had made

what might possibly be his final innings as England’s captain.

It was a typical innings in cussedness if not in length, taking no risks and forcing India to bowl their best balls at him even as he strug-

Ravindra Jadeja returned with career-best figures of 7 for 48

the best possible start to the fifth day, a wicketless first session.

Both sides of lunch, Jadeja had threatened to dismiss Alastair Cook for the sixth time in the series. He produced a loud lbw shout with his first ball of the day, turning the ball past the inside edge when Cook, on 25, pressed forward to defend.

India did well not to review umpire Marais Erasmus’ notout decision: replays suggested the ball struck Cook in line with off stump but would probably have spun past leg stump. Then, on 47, Cook shuffled across his stumps and missed a flick; this time India reviewed, and balltracking suggested the ball was turning too much to hit leg stump.

Eventually, Cook’s shuffling unease about getting lbw caused him to play at a ball fired a long way down the leg side, and he effectively glanced the ball straight to leg slip. He fell one short of a half-century in his final innings of this long and difficult tour of the subcontinent, and

gled against both Jadeja and Ashwin, who had beaten his

outside edge frequently in the first hour. There was a dropped catch too, Ashwin finding dip and turn in the third over of the day to find his outside edge, but not the desired support behind the wicket, the ball bouncing off Parthiv Patel’s gloves.

Keaton Jennings had played the spinners well, sweeping and reverse-sweeping confidently and also using his feet to try and get to the pitch and work Jadeja and Amit Mishra with the turn. This enabled him to clip both of them for fours through midwicket, but having done this to go from 50 to 54, he stepped out again, premeditatedly, and Jadeja fired it in low and full. The ball hit Jennings on the front foot, and then bounced up into the face of his bat, and looped back for a simple return catch.

Joe Root, England’s best batsman of the series, got himself out six overs later, sweeping

unwisely off the line of the stumps. The ball was too full for the shot, and it sneaked under his bat and hit his front pad instead. India reviewed Simon Fry’s not-out decision a fair call, given it wasn’t immediately apparent whether the ball had straightened enough to hit the stumps and ball-tracking said it was hitting more than 50% of leg stump.

Jonny Bairstow was next to go, perhaps unfortunate to see a perfectly acceptable flick, off a full, leg-stumpish Ishant delivery balloon into the air, the ball perhaps stopping on him. He was even more unfortunate that Jadeja was the fielder sprinting from midwicket towards the square leg boundary with his back to the pitch, looking over his shoulder to keep his eye on the ball. Perhaps no one else on the field would have been able to pull off the catch.

(ESPNcricinfo)

CA defends Russell’s use of black bat

C

ricket Australia executives have declared West Indian all-rounder Andre Russell’s use of a black bat as completely within the laws of the Big Bash competition.

Russell stoked controversy on Tuesday after showing up for the tournament’s opening encounter against the Sydney Sixers with a black and pink bat.

The instrument immediately set tongues wagging on social media platforms.

While many praised the talented Jamaican’s creative spark, many pointed out that the equipment could be illegal, citing Law 6.6 which states that it is not legal for a player to have a blackened blade.

A similar controversy arose in the English Country Twenty20, with Ashar Zaidi also wield-

Andre Russell

ing a black coloured bat for Essex, until it was outlawed.

A Cricket Australia spokesperson quickly clarified the ruling, saying the West Indian all-rounder had not broken any laws.

“A player can use a coloured bat subject to Cricket Australia approval.

The bat may be the same colour as the club’s prima-

ry colour, or black,” said the spokesperson. “CA retains the right to withdraw approval in its absolute discretion. The umpires can also request a player change the bat if they believe it affects the integrity of the match.”

Russell made just nine runs and took one wicket as the Thunder lost by nine runs to the Sixers. (Sportsmax)

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

wednESday, DECember 21, 2016

GFF/NAMILCO Under-17 league breeding ground for national players

F

ourteen of the sixteen shortlisted national U-15 players representing Guyana in the Claude Elise Under-15 football Tournament in French Guiana are players involved in the GFFNAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power National Under-17 tournament.

This follows the twenty-one (21) of the twentyseven (27) initially shortlisted for encampment who played for various clubs across Guyana. It is also evidence of the impact of the national tournament on the development of the base of youth football for which national team selection can be premise on.

Troni Semple, who plays in the forward position and would have reportedly scored nine goals in the tournament thus far, said the GFF-NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power National Under-17 tournament motivated him to perform well on the field.

“Before the start of the tournament, there was a presentation about the (tournament). They had said they will be (selecting) players from the tournament according to how well you play to go on the national team… it was a wonderful experience for me and I will be a better player.”

Meanwhile, the Buxton United FC player said that being on the national team has been a learning experience. “It is very new to my knowledge. I’ve learned a lot of stuff and approaches. TD

Daniel Lowe (Technical Director), Coach Bryan (Joseph), Coach Challus (Mc Kinnon) (are) very great coaches, they’ve taught me a lot so far for these past five days. I have learned a lot of new stretches, warm ups, new game play, new set for shape and attacking – diamond – I usually play with triangle.”

Another player who plays in the forward position, Jermaine Garrett, said the movement from the GFF-NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power National Under-17 tournament to the national team has been good.

“I’ve improved a lot on my skills, my attacking and defending. In the national team, it is very disciplined…”

The positive and direct winger, who is the brother of National U-17 captain, Jeremy Garrett, said his older brother inspires him. “I’ve always wanted

to follow him, I’ve always wanted to play like him.

We play (in) different positions but I just have to keep working hard like him in school and football and become just like him.”

Finding the discipline and balance between football and education is also a priority among the parents of the squad members. In an invited comment following the parent-player meeting just before the team’s departure, Loyce Adonis, mother of commanding goalkeeper Shawn Adonis noted: “He (Shawn) has a balance, he goes to lessons from Monday to Friday.

(The) days he plays are

Shawn Adonis Saturday and Sunday and Sunday he has to be home by 18:00h. If he can’t balance, he can’t play, that’s just my rules. He has to learn to balance himself… education is important; as long as you cannot balance

Jermaine Garrett yourself, you cannot play.”

While some players were shortlisted, others were not but like GFF’s President, Wayne Forde said at the parent-player meeting, “...take this as an inspiration for you to work even harder… it is not the end of the road…”

One of the team members who was not selected to travel but, from all accounts, is a talented and creative forward is Daniel Lowe. At eleven (11) years old, he was the youngest in the squad.

His father, Christopher Lowe, in sharing his thoughts about the camp noted that “everything was done really well, I was so impressed that the TD (Technical Director) came and brought a different standard to soccer in Guyana.”

Lowe, while stating Daniel will put in the required work to be shortlisted in the future, under-

scored the importance of parental support.

“Once the child has a dream, always put it first because it is very important. If they fail or not, it is always important for them to try.

If they have a dream, let them try it. Go as a parent with your best ability and work as you have to make them at least try.”

Commenting on the future, Ian Greenwood, Technical Director, said, “Everything is geared at 2017 – CONCACAF Tournament – so all the players that didn’t make the squad at this mo-

Troni Semple ment in time will be returning to the training camp for the tournament. We will continue to monitor these players and also be looking for other players that we have not seen on the trials so throughout the year, the

Jaguars Franchise League 50-Over

All eyes on Shepherd

G

uyana Jaguars allrounder Romario Shepherd wants to keep the selectors eyes on him as he aims to become a regular member in the Jaguars team for the Regional 50 over tournament slated to start in late January 2017.

The towering hostile fast bowler and capable batsman plans to do so through consistency in his game during the Jaguars League 50 overs segment which is scheduled to begin on Thursday. “I just want to put some performances together…keep picking

up wickets consistently to keep the selectors eyes on me.”

The 22 year old gigantic quickie believes staying fit is the most important aspect in fast bowling. And with his fitness and height he is expecting to keep the batsmen eyes open with extreme pace, extra bounce and the natural inswing he usually offer when steaming in.

Shepherd was the most successful fast bowler during the inaugural Jaguars Franchise League three day tournament. He was outstanding with the ball

and chipped in with the bat for his franchise West Demerara which finished second behind winners Lower Corentyne.

He made his List A debut against Leewards Hurricanes where he grabbed 3-37 from 10 overs and was named man of the match for his exceptional effort which propelled his team to a comfortable seven wicket victory at Warner Park in St. Kitts and Nevis in the Nagico Super 50 2016. After that impressive debut, the Berbician failed to make the starting XI for the remainder of the sea-

son and will now have to work his way back to the Jaguars squad.

Due to his returns in the inaugural Jaguars Franchise League three day segment he was named in the Jaguars line up in their away games to the Leeward Hurricanes and Windward Volcanoes but he missed out on the playing XI. The Regional Super 50 will be played in Antigua and Barbados from January 24 to February 18, 2017. Trinidad and Tobago Red Force are the defending champions and will be in Group A alongside Kent Spitfires, Leeward Islands Hurricanes, West Indies U19s and Windward Islands Volcanoes.

While Group B comprises Barbados Pride, Guyana Jaguars, CCC Marooners, Jamaica Scorpions and ICC Americas.

Romario Shepherd

U-15 will be constantly addressed…”

The nation-wide GFFNAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power IntraAssociation U-17 Tournament, is a five (5)year partnership between the GFF Inc. and the National Milling Company, that will see an investment of thirty million dollars (G$30,000,000.00) by the Company over that period.

The tournament is a key component of the Executive Committee’s strategic objective in its youth development thrust. This new model emphasizes three essential goals: 1. To streamline sponsorship agreements beyond Executive Cycles.

2. To ensure that consistent youth football at all levels are played in each Association throughout the year.

3. To enable the establishment of Academy Training Centers (ATC) in each Association that will facilitate growth and development of Elite Coaches and Elite Players.

In an invited comment, President Forde noted; “we are consciously laying a deep foundation for consistent, long-term technical development of Coaches and Players.

This will not pay immediate dividend; however, it will require us all to exercise patience, discipline and belief in the vision that we can be the strongest football nation within the CFU.”

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Banks DIH Public Relations Officer Troy Peters (left); Director of Sport Christopher Jones (second from left); Colours Boutique’s Briana Damon (third from right); Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste (second from right) and Brand Manager Errol Nelson

T

he top teams of the recently concluded Georgetown Zone of the Guinness Greatest of the Street received their respective prizes on Tuesday morning at Banks DIH, Thirst Park.

The final which was played on Friday at the National Park Tarmac, saw Sparta Boss in pouring rain win their second consecutive title for the zone when they defeated Tucville 1-0.

Sparta who seemed to have created a dynasty in street football were given their prize of $500,000 and the championship trophy while Tucville received $200,000 and the second-place trophy.

The third place match between Broad Street Bullies and Back Circle was won by the latter 3-2 on penalty kicks.

Back Circle won $150,000 while Broad Street won $75,000 and the corresponding trophies.

Guinness Brand Manager, Lee Baptiste congratulated all teams for playing at a high standard throughout the tournament and disclosed that the these top four sides have earned a space in the National play-offs.

In addition Baptiste sent a stern warning to teams who do not obey rules and other obligations and are respectful of time since failure to adhere could result them being expelled from the tournament.

Colours Boutique, supplied all the uniforms to teams and their representative Briana Damon thanked the entire supporter the tournament as they were most pleased over the excitement the football brought the skill of the players.

Meanwhile, Director of Sport Christopher Jones applauded Banks DIH for their commitment to sport, stating, that “On behalf of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Ministry of Education, Department of Youth Culture and Sport, we are quite happy that Banks has taken this initiative some years ago and continue in that path and more so it adds to youth and leadership.”

Jones added that “it is opposite to believe that Government and Government alone has the responsibility for sport in fact corporate Guyana who would have to lend support to these initiatives

and would want to encourage other companies to do same.

The Director is mindful that “companies and business are in the business for business and as such whatever investment they do they are expecting to see returns of those investments.”

In an effort to allow more corporations to be supportive, Jones explained that “We at the NSC are continuing those discussions with the Ministry of Finance where we want to see a way the Ministry can provide to companies of corporate Guyana who lend support to the development of sport that they get tax reductions as to encourage other companies to come on board and I’m hoping that in 2017 this becomes a realization as not only the established companies come on board but the smaller ones as well.”

In January, the West Demerara zone will be contested followed by competitions in Linden, Bartica, Berbice and the East Coast of Demerara after which the National play-offs will be held to select a team for the Caribbean championships.

Pooranmall wins GDA Award

T

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he Guyana Draughts Association (GDA) once again held their Annual General Meeting and Awards ceremony last Saturday at their head office located at Lot 185 Waterloo Street, Georgetown.

President of the Association Jiaram Ramdeen was one of the integral speakers of the night as he gave a detailed report of the activities the Association hosted for the year 2016 while highlighting some of the plans that are expected to come on board for the coming year.

Coordinator of the Association, Paul D’Anjou lamented on activities associated with the game. He said some people outside of the Association are soliciting funds and hold private games which are unlawful and monies collected are unaccountable, advising that such practices must stop.

The president said that he “always advised that if anyone

Winners all the way; from left: Paul D’Anjou, Marilyn Ali, Khemraj Pooranmall and Jiaram Ramdeen

wants to hold such activities they must first form a club and register with the Association.

Registration fees is $1,000 and the monthly dues is also $1,000.”

Charles Hetemeyer, who is the finance Secretary, escalated on the downfall of members by not paying their monthly dues. He added that the only way forward is by paying on the spot his dues in full for the year 2017. By this

example other members also followed and paid in full for January 2017.

As it related to the awards, D’Anjou was given an award for his tireless efforts in garnering funs for the Association while Khemraj Pooranmall received his award for the best player of the year.

Pooranmall won all five games he contested during the year and was given a cash incentive while the other

22 Ming determined for more success after a pleasing 2016

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

wednesday, december 21, 2016

Stag Nations Cup KO Football

Race for quarterfinal space is on tonight at Leonora T

op city trio; Western Tigers, Police, Santos and Riddim Squad have already booked their quarter final spots, and have now left the other associations competing in the STAG Nations Cup knockout football championship gunning to ensure that they secure one of the four

whistle.

Veteran forward Lerone Jacobs who still has the flair and ability to annihilate any defence will lead the charge for Uitvlugt and will find able support from the Duke brothers, Keyon and Kevin, Jamal Petty, Carisle Carryol, Alex Moore, Denzil Smith,

one of the leading teams from East Demerara which would be playing at this venue for the first time.

Pouderoyen, a side that has carried the flag of West Demerara over the years and a sturdy opponent would relish the chance of a place in the final eight but first would have to get past

Stanley Ming, Calvin Ming and Chairman of the Press Conference, Kit Nascimento were delighted to bring the media up to speed with the nation’s racing sensation

G

uyana and the Caribbean’s only Formula 4 race car driver, Calvin Ming has had a successful 2016 season as was revealed by his father, Stanley Ming to the media at Ming’s Products and Services, Urquhart Street Kingston on Tuesday.

The satisfied parent who is also Calvin’s Manager, noted that this is not only a proud year for the family,

integral part of the scenario was the limited amount of resources available to Guyanese, who need to be properly trained and nurtured to do well. Even as persons approach corporate sponsors, that too is a limited resource.

Ming ventured to deduce that it costs in the vicinity of US$600,000 for a tour, traveling over 200 times for the pair to and from the

which is expected to begin in February.

However, young Ming noted that it is not only the race day that is important but the preparation behind it as it is not easy to sit for 200 laps every weekend. Thus, the reason he is already starting to prepare with his team which comprises of international coaches and technical staff.

He gave the example of a

Uitvlugt Warriors big three: from right, Jermaine Accra, Leron Jacobs and Daniel Floyd

remaining quarter final slots when play continues this evening at the Leonora Track and Field Facility, West Coast Demerara.

The West Side will have two opportunities to snatch a quarter final berth with Georgetown having a fifth and East Demerara one also.

Uitvlugt Warriors, West Demerara’s flagship side, coached by former national defender Orville Bobb will fancy their chances against Northern Rangers which

Daniel Floyd, Jermaine Accra, Ryan Andrews, Kevin Fraser and goalkeepers, Travis Fraser and Shawn Browel.

Northern Rangers had secured their goals in the win against Young Achievers from Steven Sankar (a double), Telfon Daley, Devon Caesar, Stephon Reynolds, Colin Clark and Sunil Logan and they would be the players leading the quest for another victory tonight.

As hungry as either

Mahaica Determinators. To achieve this aim, the home team would be banking on the likes of the Harding brothers, Anthony and Ashley, Dwayne St. Kitts, Morgan Denny, Kayode King, Marvin Frank, Denzil Boyce, Quessey Alleyne, Esan Nelson and Sherwin Bernard who will be their last pillar of defence.

To deliver a win and a place in the quarter finals, Mahaica will turn to the Roberts brothers, Kirk and Azumah, the Abel brothers,

Calvin Ming with fans after winning in Mexico

but the country as a whole.

He related that when his son won in Mexico, the National Anthem of Guyana was played live across the entire country and as a result he received a call from the former Mexican Ambassador to Guyana who said “all of Mexico now knows where Guyana is.”

This was particularly important, the senior Ming mentioned that we now have another Guyanese highlighting Guyana in a premier sport in the world, not just placing but winning. He compared it to us having the best in cricket and now racing, saying that “it is good to know as Guyanese we can hold our head high on the world stage.”

On the other hand, an

various tracks in the United States of America, where Calvin studies and Mexico where the races were held.

This figure is likely to increase for the next season.

With the support of his father, Calvin expects to conquer the challenges come 2017. While Ming Snr., sighted the movements of drivers such as Sabastien Vettel who moved from Formula 3 to Formula 1, Calvin who started in Formula 1600 will be aiming to make it into the Indi Grand Prix which is the top form of racing. Negotiations have already started.

Calvin would have raced in 21 races across seven different venues and is currently the number one racer in the series as they head into the new season

three race day with a fourhour interval between races, while in the Caribbean it would be relaxing, in the international scene it is three hours in a trainer going through the paces with the team to prepare for the upcoming race.

Ming highlighted that it is considerably different from what we do here (in the Caribbean) where it is just a jump in and drive situation and also the length of the races is significantly different.

Another key feature to Ming’s 2017 season is that he has two offers currently standing to drive for a team and after spending some amount of time with the team the youngster will have one week to decide which team he will be joining.

All set! The smart looking Mahaica Determinators rocking their new uniform compliments of Rohan Auto Spares

had hammered another West Dem. side at the same venue on Friday last 7-0.

Foremost in the minds of the Uitvlugt players would be revenge as they would not want to succumb to the Rangers so the home team would be unleashing a cadre of young and hungry players who will be taking the attack to Northern Rangers from the first

team would be, only one will walk away victors; who would that be is left to be seen after the final whistle tonight.

The curtain raiser would be equally exciting between two sides that does not know anything if at all about each other.

Pouderoyen though, would start with the advantage of playing at home against

Eion and Ewart, Shameer Nazir, Michael Amsterdam, Travis Charles, Devon Charles, Curtley Adams, Devon Harris, Terrance Phillips, Cordell Haywood, Andrew Williams, Royden Ramsey, Samuel Vandyke, Neil Lynton, Kepler Wilson, Elton Amsterdam and Sylvester Richardson.

Kick off time is 18:00h.

guyanatimesgy.com

WednESday, december 21, 2016

2nd Petra/Limacol Knock-out Football Tournament launched

23

― aim is to make it parallel to Elite League ― Mendonca

By Akeem Greene

T

he second annual Petra Organised Limacol Round Robin Knock out Football Tournament was officiall y

launched o n Tuesday evening at Spice Garden Restaurant, Campbellville.

The resoundi n g mess a g e echoed at the launching by Co Director of the Petra Organisation Troy Mendonca is the that the main aim of the league will be to allow it to run parallel to the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Elite League and be an avenue where teams can be promoted to the league.

Mendonca also expressed that he is expect-

ing full support from everyone in this tournament as “our business is to have football being played consistently.”

He added, “Our business as administrations is challenging and we have to rise above those challenges and have the game played since the impact of the game exceeds that of on the field.

GFF President, Wayne Forde expressed gratitude on the work of the Petra Organisation has done over the years and also admired that the growth of the tournament as it embodies the vision of the football Federation.

Hugely-anticipated GOA AGM on today

T

he highly anticipated Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the Guyana Olympics Association (GOA) is slated for today at the Association’s new head office at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

The entity which comprises of all the local Olympic and some nonOlympic sporting association is one of the most significant bodies in the sporting world and it is no surprise that today, what will have all ears batted to the news will be the results of the General Elections which is also on the cards during the AGM. This will be particularly important based on the fact that the incumbent President, K. A. Juman Yassin has come under heavy criticism from various stakeholders. These criticisms come following the reality that Yassin has held office for 20 years since taking over from Justice Rudolph Harper in 1996 following four years as Vice President.

One of those criticisms would have been the constant failure of Guyana to secure an Olympic medals, only doing so once, long before Yassin’s tenure.

However, the irony amongst the criticisms is the likely possibility that Yassin will run for the post once

Incumbent President Juman Yassin

KA

again unopposed, on his way to the pole has already winning over a number of voters including President of the Guyana Amateur Basket Ball Federation, Nigel Hinds.

President of the Guyana Sports Shooting Federation, Attorney-at-Law Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon has stated openly that she will not be contesting the elections after word surfaced that she will be taking part in the event.

However, if Yassin is to be contested for the post, rumors are that he will be contesting against fellow Attorneys, Roysdale Forde and Nigel Hughes to name a few.

The election is expected to get underway by 17:00h.

Commenting on having the tournament run as a parallel to the Elite League he said, “those are the relationships we can explore in the future” and he also agreed that the ultimate goal must be to have football being played.

New Guyana Pharmaceutical Finance Manager Dwayne Lovell stated that “We at New GPC are proud to be a part of the tournament and hoped that the game can be played in a way where the teams respect the rules of the game a n d perform their best.

T h e tournam e n t w i l l kick on January

plete for a $500,000 first place prize while second to third will receive $250,000, $125,000 and $75,000 respectively.

In addition, the top three teams in the groups will be rewarded $100,000, $50,000 and $25,000.

The teams participating are: Winners Connection, Ann’s Grove FC, defending champions Milerock, New Amsterdam United, Grove Hi Tech, Mahaicia Determinators, Western Tigers, Campton FC, Police FC, Northern Rangers, Santos FC, Riddim Squad, Eagles United FC, Den Flashback! Most Valuable Player of the inaugural tournament, Amstell FC, Pourderyen FC Clarence Huggins (right) of Milerock FC collecting the award and Uitvulgt. for Most Valuable Player from Dwayne Lovell A public drawing will be held at a later date to 15 and will have groups of which will conclude on place teams into the various groups. four in a round robin fol- February 26. lowed by the knock outs The top teams will com-

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

Pg 23

2nd Petra/Limacol Knock-out football tournament launched

― aim is to make it parallel to Elite League ― Mendonca From left: NEW GPC Finance Manager Dwayne Lovell, GFF President Wayne Forde and Co-Director of Petra Organisation Troy Mendonca

Ming determined for more success after a pleasing 2016

Calvin Ming poses with his machine that is making him live his dream

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, News Hotliine: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 SALES AND MARKETING - lezas@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.

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