Guyana Times

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Issue No. 2715

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Kaieteur News pushing “vendetta agenda” against NICIL, Brassington Page 3

... Glenn Lall upset Guyana Stores sued over outstanding $400M

Amend laws instead of Company forging ahead on agreement pardoning ...as bondholders refuse interest reduction criminals – Rohee

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Bladen Hall accident victim succumbs P11 Law students’ efforts must be recognised – Minister Williams P11

BBCI toll reduction

Page 10

Page 7

Services P11 boosted at Moleson Creek ferry service

Giftland celebrates Christmas with Tiger Bay children Man slapped with falsifying rape P8 allegations charge against Police Officer

Taxi driver on $150,000 bail for fraud

Giftland hosted its Annual Christmas gift giving event with the Tiger Bay community on Monday at Nations University Compound, New Market Street, Georgetown. Christmas gifts and goodies were given to the children, an annual activity that Giftland has been doing for the past five years

Bleak outlook for Linden businesses during holidays Page 13

CID ranks awarded for outstanding performance

Page 9

Region 2 businessmen call for Page 12 Department of Business

– Gaskin admits he has no solutions for Region’s economic stagnation

P14

Shot businessman on slow P13 road to recovery Roraima Airways P17 hosts annual veterans luncheon

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Tuesday, december 22, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

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tuesday, december 22, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, December 22 – 14:30h-16:00h and Wednesday, December 23 – 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, December 22 – 13:45h-15:15h and Wednesday, December 23 – 14:30h-16:00h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Kaieteur News pushing “vendetta agenda” against NICIL, Brassington ...Glenn Lall upset Guyana Stores sued over outstanding $400M

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

WEATHER TODAY Weather: Light cloud cover and light rain showers can be expected throughout the day and into the evening.

Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly between 3.57 metres and 5.36 metres per second.

NICIL Executive Director Winston Brassington

High Tide: 01:42h and 14:04h reaching maximum heights of 2.44 metres and 2.59 metres respectivley.

Low Tide: 07:34h and 20:08h reaching minimum heights of 0.76 metre and 0.60 metre respectively.

N

ational Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) Executive Director Winston Brassington is under attack by the local tabloid Kaieteur News over his decision to take legal action against Royal Investments Inc (RII), part-owned by the newspaper’s publisher Glenn Lall and his close friend Tony Yassin after they failed to pay an outstanding balance of US$2 million for the Guyana Stores Limited, a close associate of Lall has said.

The associate of Lall has confirmed that the newspaper publisher advised his editorial staff that every effort must be made to “expose” Brassington and NICIL through the forensic audits that were conducted into that entity by former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran, a close friend of Lall. This vendetta against Brassington had been pursued for a number of years, ever since the suit was initiated by Brassington.

Because the case is still sub judice, more details cannot be provided, but they are

widely available in newspaper reports.

There are claims that the recent forensic audit into NICIL may have been compromised; however, those claims could not have been independently verified by this newspaper.

NICIL issued a detailed response to the forensic audit, clarifying the various issues raised by the forensic auditor; however, those responses never found their way into any of the Kaieteur News reports. The response contradicted Goolsarran’s “findings” and conclusions on numerous occasions, but the rebuttals, which the former Auditor General had at his disposal, were not integrated into the report or countered.

Lall and Yassin, Directors of Guyana Stores, owe US$2 million of the US$6 million the property was sold for back in 2000 by the Government via NICIL. Past due interest on the outstanding balance would amount almost to another US$2 million.

In the meantime, the profits of Guyana Stores are collected by Lall and

Yassin.

Lall has always been a “sketchy” character with close associations with those who are not necessarily on the right side of the law, as was made explicit when WikiLeaks released a number of cables from the US Embassy in Georgetown.

In one that went back to June 15, 2006 – incidentally less than two months before the slaying of the Kaieteur News workers – the Embassy’s Political Officer, Benjamin Canavan reported to the State Department about various Guyanese who passed on information to him the previous week.

Specifically in reference to Lall, Canavan noted that “Lall has a sketchy past – he translated a shoe trading business (and rumoured

Kaieteur News Publisher Glenn Lall

involvement with alien [human] smuggling) into a muckraking independent newspaper”.

“He has a finger firmly on the pulse of Guyana’s underworld, which serves his media enterprise well,” Canavan said, referring to Lall. He reportedly snitched on his friends, and it is possible the one providing this information might be one of them.

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Views Editor(ag): Michael Younge Tel: 225-8697, 225-6695, 225-5634, 225-8696, 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Unencumbered public discussion

O

f recent, there has been a heated discussion in the pages of a number of local newspapers, including this one, on the role of the public intellectual in Guyana – more specifically, the role of “ethnic” public intellectuals.

This, we believe, is a quite positive development, even though one interlocutor suggested that “intellectuals” should be untethered from ethnic identifications.

This view harks back to the old Platonic notion that there is some standard of social, political and even moral “good” that somehow exists outside of our particulars. This “universality” has been rejected through the millennia, but it crops up ever so often when some people do not concede that whatever “universal” they posit, it had to have been extended from someone’s particulars. And those universalised particulars are inevitably those of the group with power in the society.

The problematic was posed from another angle by the political philosopher, John Stuart Mill two thousand years later in his foundational “On Liberty”: “Society can and does execute its own mandates: and if it issues wrong mandates instead of right, or any mandates at all in things with which it ought not to meddle, it practices a social tyranny more formidable than many kinds of political oppression, since, though not usually upheld by such extreme penalties, it leaves fewer means of escape, penetrating much more deeply into the details of life, and enslaving the soul itself. Protection, therefore, against the tyranny of the Magistrate is not enough; there needs protection also against the tyranny of the prevailing opinion and feeling, against the tendency of society to impose, by other means than civil penalties, its own ideas and practices as rules of conduct on those who dissent from them.”

The “protection also against the tyranny of the prevailing opinion” can only come if the individuals and groups in the society, who differ with the accepted wisdom, can have their opinions enter the public sphere for discussion and debate. And this is where the public intellectuals from the various groups – as they define themselves – have to play their role of interrogating the dominant paradigm and articulating alternative answers to questions posed to the nation towards the creation of a more just society.

In Guyana, it would appear that after a long period of public denial, most persons now accept that in the realm of politics our voting cleaves, more or less, along ethnic lines. This implies, for whatever reasons, people of this country believe that their political interests are secured by particular parties that then inevitably become identified as “ethnic parties”.

In a developing country like Guyana, because politics intrudes into every facet of human endeavour, areas such as culture, and even art, become arenas of political contestation. The public intellectual coming from the several camps – ethnic, gender, sexual orientation, race, colour, geography, etc – is inevitably seen as taking a political position. Not from the Foucauldian thesis that all relations actually mirror “power relations”, but from the more visceral one that the public intellectual is seen to support one or the other political parties in the society. In other words, they are seen as “partisan”.

But maybe the need to accept intellectuals speaking as grounded ethnic individuals might be made easier to accept for those that see it as “divisive” by starting with one group that is now accepted as needing to speak for themselves: females. As late as the last century, women in the developed world did not even have the franchise – just as the “natives” in the colonies who were explicitly informed they were “not ready”. Women today not only have the right to vote for their representatives, even in Guyana there is a constitutional stipulation that 33 per cent of the representatives in Parliament must be female.

This was achieved because females honed an ideology (feminism) and agitated for inclusion in the political system.

No less must be allowed for all other groups, including ethnic groups.

At a fun day held for children from 23 orphanages across Guyana by Save Abee Foundation in collaboration with local companies, one young lady patiently sits and gets her face painted at Carifesta Ground by a happy volunteer

A welcome and a farewell Dear Editor, I hereby convey my sincere congratulations to Justice of Appeal, Justice Yonnette Cummings-Edwards, who was recently appointed to act in the office of the Chief Justice of Guyana. This is the second time in our country’s history that a woman has been appointed to function in this office. The first of course being Madam Desiree Bernard OR, who later became the Chancellor of the Judiciary and was subsequently elevated to the Caribbean Court of Justice.

Justice CummingsEdwards’ appointment is yet another illustration of how far we have evolved as a society from the days when our women were not exposed to educational and professional pursuits but were domesticated as mothers and home-makers. This appointment, therefore, will continue to inspire our women and demonstrate

to them that the sky can be their limit.

Justice CummingsEdwards’ appointment comes at a critical time in our democracy. She takes over the reins of the crucial Constitutional and Administrative Court before which there are several very important political cases pending.

A monumental challenge for Justice CummingsEdwards in this equation is the phenomenal workload that Chief Justice Chang carried in this Court. Quite apart from the political cases, there are dozens of constitutional and public law matters that are filed weekly, most of which are as complex as they are significant. They are also several bail petitions and a large number of estate matters, all of which were heard and determined with commendable dispatch by Chief Justice Chang. I can say with-

out fear of contradiction that his shoes would be extremely difficult to fill. The legal profession knows this too well.

Therefore, Justice CummingsEdwards’ task is not an easy one – a fact of which I believe Her Honour is very much aware. In any event, I have no doubt that Her Honour will acquit herself with distinction in this new post. She enjoys my best wishes.

I also salute Chief Justice Chang for giving 15 years of outstanding service on the bench to his country and his people. During his tenure, Justice Chang has had to deal with some of the most vexed and complex legal issues known to the law. He heard and determined some of the most socially and politically controversial cases in our post-independent history.

In so doing, he attracted the wrath of civil society and politicians, alike. In my view, he

was influenced by neither. He decided cases fearlessly and based upon his interpretation of the law. He always wrote, so that his legal reasons can be examined by all and sundry.

It is not possible to properly pay tribute to Justice Chang in a singular piece.

More will be written later.

But before I close, I feel compelled to disclose that as Chief Justice, he rendered more written decisions that the entire High Court combined.

That, without more, speaks volumes of his contribution.

As he sails off into the judicial sunset, I wish him well. I have no doubt that I echo the sentiments of the entire profession when I say, “we will all miss you on the bench, Chief”.

Sincerely, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, MP Attorney-at-Law

I am a Hindustani follower of Jesus Christ – period!

Dear Editor, The caption of my letter, “I was a Hindu then Jesus came into my life” (Kaieteur News, December, 17) was unfortunate.

It seems as if that caption was concocted without taking adequate time to surmise the gist of the missive. The title of the letter elicits the connotation that after Jesus comes into one’s life, one has to give up one’s Hindustani culture.

The following statement may rattle the nerves of many Hindus and Christians but it is true: there are many who refer to themselves as “Hindus” in the world who are followers of Jesus Christ.

I have encountered several Swamis in India who do not call themselves “Christians” but “Hindus”. More specifically, they refer to themselves

as “Yeshu Masih ke bhakta” – followers of the Lord Jesus Christ. These bhaktas (disciples) of Christ avoid association with the word “Christian”, because of its negative connotation. In India, for example, when the word “Christian” is used, it evokes a perception of Western domination and disrespect, beef-eating, immodest clothing, immorality, etc.

Many Christians (my wife, for example) are typical Hindu (stani). She is a proud Indian, a vegetarian, and dresses modestly (in saris, salwar kameez, and with other modest clothing). Our son has a complete Hindustani name (Deepak Raj). He is a brilliant singer in Hindi and English, and sings raags, and plays the harmonium and tabla. Should our family discard such culture and expression because

we have decided to embrace a faith that existed for thousands of years in India?

I am disappointed that Pandit Charranlall Nandalall did not reciprocate by answering my questions in his letter, “This man is uncomfortable with his own persona” (Kaieteur News, December 21). For the Pandit’s information, I am discovering who I am and am delighting in this discovery: I am a Hindustani (Indian) follower of Jesus Christ – period!

I have lived almost a quarter of my life in hamari matrabhoomi Bharat (the “motherland” of India), and have loved it. I read, write and speak Hindi, and have lived like an ordinary Indian in villages and cities of India. I have spent time in ashrams, attended University lectures

and courses, learned to play the sitar and partake in various aspects of Indian culture, and conversed with some of the most respected practitioners of Sanskrit. I love to fold my feet in the lotus position (these days that is a challenge!), and eat dal and rice by “sanneh-ing” with my hands; I love to “chahate” (lick) my khanna (food)!

Reflecting on the birth of the Messiah at this time of the year, I resoundingly proclaim, “Yeshu Masih ki Jai”! (Victory in Jesus!)

I would like to take this opportunity to say “Pranaam/ Namaskaar”, “badaa din mubarak ho”, and “Merry Christmas” to all my fellow Guyanese.

Sincerely, Devanand Bhagwan

Intolerant mindset Dear Editor, Devanand Bhagwan’s letter, “Respect, honour and love Hindus” (Guyana Times, December 18), was an expectation. He continues to prove his love for Hindus in a pro-

cess that exposes his intolerant mindset. It will be no surprise to see this clearer in his next missive.

After deserting Hinduism and embracing his new faith he is still not pleased with

himself. He imitates Hindu culture as a core strategy for getting at Hindus. Is this what he calls ‘love’, ‘respect’ and ‘honour’ for Hindus?

Mr Bhagwan appears to be uncomfortable with himself

and is therefore urged not to interfere with Hindus, their worship and practices.

Yours truly, Pt Charranlall Nandalall

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tuesday, december 22, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

NICIL Forensic Audit

Goolsarran has no proof to back his claims – Brassington

NICIL Executive Director Winston Brassington

By Edward Layne

F

ormer Auditor General Anand Goolsarran is “failing miserably” when it comes to backing up his “findings” regarding the revenue and expenditure of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL).

This is according to NICIL Executive Director Winston Brassington, who speaking on “Current Issues and Analysis” television programme on TVGChannel 28 on Monday evening said Goolsarran’s report was inundated with wild assertions as he continuously failed to back up his claims with any evidence “When Mr Goolsarran comments on our financial expenditure and our revenue, and he is criticising some of these [and] for many of the things, he is criticising he is not producing any real detail of where he got his information from or whether the accounts are wrong or not. He didn’t provide any evidence that suggest that and so you have these contradictions.

At the end of the day, someone has to look and

ask has Mr Goolsarran done a proper job? And I think that we will find that the evidence is lacking,” Brassington said.

He added that Goolsarran could not legally support his claims that NICIL has breached Sections 216 and 217 of the Constitution, which state that all revenues or other monies raised or received by Guyana must be paid into the Consolidated Fund.

He said based on numerous legal opinions with “some level of depth”, it was revealed that Sections 216 and 217 of the Constitution did not apply to NICIL, since NICIL is a company.

“If we were to deposit all of our funds in the Consolidated Fund, then so should every single other company – GPL (Guyana Power and Light); GuySuCo (Guyana Sugar Corporation); Guyoil (Guyana Oil Company).

That defies the reasons why you create companies; more importantly if you did that we would violate the articles and bylaws of NICIL, we would violate numerous sections of the Companies Act and we have been doing what we’re doing for 20 years and longer and we have not had a problem. We have many, many different people who have looked at NICIL and the way we account and do business, so some of these ideas he has put over, I believe, are not backed up by legal support,” Brassington stated.

He also chastised Goolsarran who in his assertions implied that the

Former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran

Audit Office of Guyana seemed to have conducted sub-standard audits of the NICIL books over the years.

“The current Auditor General has audited NICIL and for every year from 2002 when I became the head to 2013, we have had a clean audit opinion; in the words of Mr Goolsarran, a clean bill of health. I think you have an office of the Auditor General with a lot of professional and hardworking people and Mr Goolsarran’s comments would suggest that the audit wasn’t done properly,” the NICIL head noted.

M e a n w h i l e , Brassington reiterated that NICIL was subjected to a Board of Directors and all transactions of the holding company were subjected to the approval of that Board, the extremely diverse Privatisation Board as well as Cabinet.

“All of our privatisations were sanctioned by Cabinet; all of our major transactions were approved by our Board and Cabinet. We have a

NICIL Board; we have a Privatisation Board which has three Ministers on it and members of civil society, Private Sector Commission, consumer bodies, Trade Unions, so all of our decisions were not made by myself. There is a process and I am simply the conjugate in that process. There were layers of decision making,” he stated.

The hand-picking of Goolsarran and Christopher Ram to be among the forensic auditors to examine the books of 30 plus agencies, including the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC); the Guyana Gold Board (GCB) and NICIL immediately raised eyebrows as many argued that this presented a clear conflict of interest and bias and could destroy the credibility of the work.

Both Ram and Goolsarran were staunch critics of the previous Administration and had publicly commented on the financial status of a number of the agencies being audited.

Members of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club and the GuySuCo Training Centre employed considerable ingenuity to create “The Sustainable Christmas Tree”, which was made entirely from recycled materials

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Foundation Party animals y husband’s family is from Argentina, so Christmas Eve is a huge party.

Then when the clock strikes midnight it’s time to open presents!” – Karla Cepeda

“M T

he most wonderful time of year is even more wonderful now that you’re a parent. Revel in this once-in-a-lifetime moment with our tips and tricks for creating traditions, taking photos, keeping travel stressfree and more.

Start a new family tradition As much as you’ll be influenced by how you grew up, it’s also fun to come up with something that’s all your own. Make it a ritual to read the same special holiday

red is. But you do, and so do your parents, who will get a big thrill out of seeing your babe sitting on S a n t a ’s lap in photos. Also,

Splurge on Christmas PJs Nothing amps up the Christmas morning cute factor like a pair of cuddly holiday footie pyjamas. Sure, your baby can only wear them for a month, but if you get something unisex, you can hand them down to the next kid.

Deck the halls “I surprise my kids by redecorating the whole house during the night. I put Christmas lights from the tree all the way up the stairs into their room. Then of course I set out all the presents.” – Jamie Watkins

Dinner and a light show “My husband and I go out for dinner to a local diner that is open late, and then take a drive to look at Christmas lights. We don’t go out to dinner much during the year, so it is special when we can

Create a photo op You may not realise it, but your babe’s at an ideal age to get some great snaps. She can’t run out of the frame, and although it might be hard to get her into it, she can’t pull off that sweet holiday outfit you bought for her. Shoot when you get as much natural light as possible, and use your tree as a background. Be sure to take a lot of photos to get just the right shot.

Choose a gorgeous stocking This is the stocking you’ll pull out year after year, so get something you really love. If your stockings hold their fair share of the gift booty, look for something roomy. If you only use stockings for little trinkets, go with something smaller.

Pick and choose traditions Do you love how your family always throws a kitschy Christmas sweater party, or how your husband’s spends Christmas Eve playing board games? Now you have your own little family, and you can hand-pick the traditions that you like best to form your own set.

love pulling out year after year.

Create a photo ornament with your fave snapshot of the year, or personalise one with baby ’s name.

might have eaten back then – fried salmon in olive oil and seasonings, hummus, cheese, crackers, grapes, etc. We eat on the floor by candle light, then Dad reads the nativity story out of the New Testament.

My kids count on it as part of our traditions now!” – Wendy Robertson

book each year, watch retro holiday specials like Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, or be inspired by our favourite traditions from readers.

Visit Santa Sure, your baby has no idea who the portly guy in

enjoy the total lack of interest in getting on Santa’s gift list –it won’t last!

Buy a keepsake ornament Ornaments are all about the memories associated with them, and this first Christmas is a biggie. So commemorate it with a sweet ornament you’ll

Give an heirloom gift Along with the requisite brightly-coloured baby toys, this is the year to give a gift that your baby will have forever and can pass down to her own kids some day. Need ideas? A locket, pretty snow globe or keepsake box are all classic choices. (Excerpt from parenting.com)

Candlelight carolling “We go to my in-laws for a seafood buffet and midnight carolling in the woods with candles.” – Danelle French Going back in time “We have what we call a Jerusalem Dinner. We make simple foods, such that they

do it on Christmas Eve. It’s less stressful and I enjoy how we can be together enjoying a great meal without the clean up or cooking on this special night. “– Desiree Farside Santa Shindig “Santa visits our house so we have a party for all of our friends with little kids. Then Santa comes and gives the kids one present to open. After Santa leaves the kids decorate cookies to take home and leave out for Santa and trail mix for the reindeer.” – Cheryl Mathenia Want fries with that?

“We attend Christmas Eve service, drive around and look at Christmas lights, have homemade hamburgers and french fries and read and open presents.” – Haven Danielle Smith No-fuss holiday meal “My family doesn’t have a formal dinner; instead we have a sort of snack bar. We eat stuff like nachos, little smokies, crackers, summer sausage and gourmet cheese. It’s one of my favourite traditions because everything is so relaxed and easy-going.” – Sarah Harrison Pass it on “My dad’s side of the family all meet up to celebrate Christmas and my grandparent’s anniversary.

We make a line and pass the gifts from one child to the next down the hall from the tree to the living room, where one person wears the Santa hat and passes out all the gifts!

I look forward to this every year!” –Lindsy Morgan Evans

(parenting.com)

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tuesday, december 22, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Amend laws instead of pardoning criminals – Rohee nounced that he will be pardoning prisoners, mothers and youths particularly, who were sentenced to jail for minor offences. He did not specify his determination of “minor offences” but he noted that persons charged for trafficking in persons and narcotics would not be eligible while persons who were charged for stealing cellphones would be qualified for pardoning.

Lawlessness

President David Granger

BY DEVINA SAMAROO

T

he constant pardoning of prisoners ultimately undermines the justice system and so, why not amend the legislation in accordance to the preached logics? This was the question asked by People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Clement Rohee on Monday.

During the Party’s weekly press conference, Rohee expressed complete bafflement over President David Granger’s decision to pardon dozens of prisoners every year.

“The pardoning of persons sentenced by the court having been proven guilty makes the court system look foolish and ineffective… If as the logic goes, young people “belong in college, school and university instead of being in prison” then the Government should first amend the law to exempt the potential students from being charged by the Police, never to pass through court and never to be incarcerated,” Rohee stated.

President Granger an-

Rohee contended that this annual trait being introduced by the new Government would only encourage lawlessness in society, as criminals would look forward to the being pardoned even if they commit a minor crime.

“What if a young person having successfully left “col-

of the beneficiaries who will be “pardoned”. What manner of justice is this?” the General Secretary posited, as he questioned the President’s logic.

He also made reference to the Sheema Mangar incident, where the young woman was killed in the process of having her BlackBerry cellphone stolen.

“Mr Granger should remember…,” Rohee noted.

He also raised the point that the criteria for granting pardons lack transparency.

“The public is unaware of the category of crimes for which pardons are being granted, larceny from the persons appears to be one but, what are the others?” he questioned.

On the question of repeat offenders, Rohee highlighted that a “first offender” could

The Camp Street prison

lege, school and university” joined the world of work for the first time, make sacrifices, saves money and bought a Samsung Galaxy for $41,000 or a Samsung Galaxy for $95,000 only to have it snatched or stolen from them by a thief who is eventually caught and sentenced to prison. According to Granger’s logic and intention, that thief can look forward to being one

very well be a repeat offender who was only lucky enough to get caught once. On this basis, he contended that it would be outright unjust to pardon this criminal.

The marijuana debate

This complex situation brings into play the trending debate regarding amendments to the legislation concerning the possession of

PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee

marijuana.

The question persists, if then, President Granger believes persons should be pardoned for petty crimes like being incarcerated for possession of small amounts of marijuana; then is he saying the laws regarding marijuana should be amended?

Presented with this situation, Rohee said the PPP is not ready to make a pronouncement in this regard.

However, he did recognise that the pardoning seems to be going beyond the proposed amendments by Alliance For Change Chairman Nigel Hughes.

Notably, President Granger slightly objected to the idea of decriminalising marijuana, contending that it would be utmost contradictory to introduce laws to ban public smoking of tobacco yet on the other hand, amend the laws to encourage smoking of another drug.

Prison reforms

Meanwhile, instead of arbitrarily pardoning prisoners in an attempt to give

them a second chance at life, Rohee suggested that the new Government continue the PPP policy to reform the prisons.

Initially, this idea was rejected by the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC).

He explained that under the PPP/Civic Administration, a policy decision was implemented to transform the Lusignan Prison into a model prison for young offenders and “first time” offenders only, and to separate them from the hardened criminals at the Georgetown, Mazaruni and New Amsterdam prisons. The Timehri Prison had

already begun moving in that direction. Further, the intention was to transform Mazaruni into an agricultural centre, New Amsterdam into a poultry centre, Timehri into an industrial centre, while Lusignan was to be the educational centre. The Georgetown prison would become the services centre within the prison system.

“The whole idea of rebranding the Guyana Prison Service, the Guyana Correctional Services was part and parcel of the PPP/ C’s plan for prison reform but was rejected in Parliament by the APNU/AFC one-seat majority,” Rohee reminded.

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tuesday, december 22, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Carpenter to spend Christmas in prison

A

carpenter was on Monday remanded to prison when he appeared before Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with breaking and entering and larceny.

Fifty-five-year-old Mark Mc’Calman, of Lot 12 Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD), denied the

charge, which stated that between December 1 and 7, he broke in to at Action Tyre’s Grove outlet and stole a quantity of paint, one roll of chain link fencing and other construction materials, valued in total $91, 200.

He also denied the charge which stated that between December 16 and 17, he broke in to Action Tyre Grove outlet

and stole six pounds of galvanised nails valued at $36,000.

Finally, he also denied another charge which read that in December at the Grove Police Station while in the custody of Special Constable John Rawlins pending criminal charges of break and enter, he escaped from custody.

Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones objected to bail, stating

that the accused had admitted to the offence after he was taken into custody. The defendant, however, denied the allegations in court on Monday.

He told the Magistrate that he was assaulted by a police rank who then fabricated the escape from custody charge.

The defendant was remanded to prison. The case will continue on January 11.

Man slapped with falsifying rape allegations charge against Police Officer

A

Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice resident was on Monday charged for falsely accusing a Police Officer of rape.

Stephan Philips appeared before Magistrate Annet Singh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged

for making false allegations.

The 28-year-old man denied the charge, which stated that on October 22 at the Brickdam Police Station, he gave to Officer Marilyn Rodney false information alleging that he had been raped

by Police Constable Shawn

Beharry.

Police Prosecutor Adduni Innis told the court that the defendant was known to Police and was before the Providence Magistrate’s Court charged for breaking and entering when he made allegations that he was raped by a Police rank.

The Prosecutor said that an investigation was launched and it was revealed that the defendant fabricated the story. Prosecutor Innis said that advice was sought from the Director of Public Prosecutions as to the way forward and it was

recommended that Philips be charged for the offence.

Meanwhile, the Officer against whom the accusation was made told the court that as a result of the false allegation, his name had been tarnished and he had been placed under close arrest for six days.

Prosecutor Innis objected to bail based on the seriousness and nature of the offence; however, her objections were overruled. The Magistrate granted bail in the sum of $10,000 and adjourned the matter until January 4, 2016.

Vendor on $20,000 bail for larceny charge

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vendor was on Monday placed on $20,000 bail

by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan when he appeared before her at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with breaking and entering and larceny.

Shawn Scipio, 35, of Lot 87 Grove Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara (EBD), denied the charge which stated that on December 14 at Grove, he broke and entered the dwelling of Beron October and stole a wallet, $37,000 cash and US$100.

The defendant claimed that he did not commit the offence; however, he was willing to compensate the Virtual Complainant for the lost items. Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones informed the court that the defendant was released from prison one month ago, but had no objection to substantial bail being granted.

The defendant was placed on $20,000 bail. The case will continue at the Providence Magistrate’s Court on January 21.

Eyew tness Fiddling…

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…while Guyana burns

ell, actually rather than fiddling on a harp like Nero (there were actually no “fiddles” back then) as Rome burnt into ashes, our rulers are harping on their audits, and CoIs while the Guyanese economy crashes and burns. While the audits and CoIs started as part of the Government’s witch-hunt against persons it labelled as “PPP supporters”, they soon became part of the “misdirection” campaign to distract the people from their livelihood crashing over their ears.

The sugar workers can’t get their API…which they worked their guts out for during the crop and is part and parcel of their labour agreement? “We’re on it!” assures the Govt! “But we have to wait for the CoI to be reviewed by the Cabinet.” So what if the sugar workers are broke and can’t even have a decent meal in this Christmas season?

They’re used to bearing strain with all those tonnes of cane they fetch, don’t they?

The rice farmers are eating “bhoosie” because of rice prices sinking into the drainage canals? “We’re on it,” assures the Govt in the form of Nagamootoo. “But we have to sort out that NICIL on the Marriott and other transactions first.” Never mind the chief driver in this witch-hunt has been Glenn MOOK Lall and his Muckraker because of their personal vendetta against Brassington, the CEO of NICIL. And what did Brassington do to them? Well, Dear Reader, have you forgotten it was Brassington – doing his job for NICIL – who demanded Glenn Lall and his BEST friend Tony Yassin cough up the $400 million they owed NICIL for Guyana Stores? That’s right. So while Goolsarran ripped into every company NICIL privatised for the Government – don’t you think it’s more than passing strange he didn’t utter a squeak on Guyana Stores, OR the Mook?

They want misdirection for the Guyanese people – but not towards Guyana Stores. These are sacred cows. The Government has recruited Clive Thomas as its main shill for its misdirection strategy…and he’s fiddling with that harp something fierce. Why didn’t the Government give its supporters that “substantial” salary increase they were promised?

Well, says the octogenarian Thomas, it’s those billions and billions those dastardly PPP siphoned off from the economy into their pockets! Never mind the largest chunk of the so-called “illicit” transferred funds is actually underinvoicing by exporters and over-invoicing by importers!

They’ve never managed to explain as to how the PPP was the beneficiary of those private companies gaming the system.

And not a word as to how the GRA allowed such massive amounts to slip in and out under their radar.

But the point is just to keep the Guyanese people distracted, no?

…while Climate funds go begging

For some reason, Guyanese just don’t seem to understand a basic principle of business: the value of something depends on how badly people want it. And the more they want that thing, the more they’ll pay for it. And those who have that “thing” insist on demanding the most money for it.

When former President Jagdeo told the country he could get money for just letting our forests remain… ummmm…well, forests – everybody and their uncle had a good laugh. Until Norway coughed up US$250 million smackeroos! Or so we thought. Yes, Virginia…it wasn’t Santa Claus, but our forests sequestering carbon.

The developed countries wanted forests like anything to offset all the carbon they wanted to spew out to maintain their lifestyle of the rich and filthy.

But here we are again, with COP21 declaring our forests are desired even more desperately and the Government says “money’s not their focus on climate change”!

Where do these wankers get off?

…while crime spirals

This Eyewitness wonders why the Minister of Security’s mum on his promise to bring down crime. Having diagnosed the cause of crime the moment he took office – GREED – shouldn’t we see a dent by now?

But then, how would the 2am curfew reduce greed?

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

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tuesday, december 22, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

CID ranks awarded for outstanding performances … as senior cops reflected on challenging year Crime Chief Wendall Blanhum and Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud were also given tokens of appreciation for their exemplary contribution and leadership roles within the Department.

BY DEVINA SAMAROO

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t was a challenging year for the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) but the Police ranks remained determined and committed and despite the many constraints, succeeded in solving a number of crimes of all categories.

At the CID’s annual Christmas Luncheon and Awards Ceremony, Police Officers were recognised, applauded and duly awarded for their outstanding performances throughout the year and their significant contribution to the work of the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

Sergeant Rodwell Sarrabo, of the Major Crime Unit, copped the award for the CID Top Performer for his exceptional performance throughout the year.

Sergeant Sarrabo investigated several high-profile cases to its finality, until the perpetrators were charged and placed behind bars. Two most prominent of these included the CrumEwing murder case and the ‘Montrose Granny’ murder.

Additionally, he went on to investigate 13 robberies under arms and all the perpetrators are behind bars; he also investigated 10 firearm offences, among other of-

Reflections

Sergeant Rodwell Sarrabo

fences.

In addition to others, he received prizes from businesses including Game Express, Gravity, Colors Boutique and N Persaud Construction Services.

The runner-up was Sergeant Forde of the Narcotics Unit who succeeded in busting over 80 kilograms of cocaine in 2015.

Additionally, the team that investigated the Neesa Gopaul murder case was also recognised and lauded for their excellent work in

bringing the matter to closure.

Other awardees were Lance Corporal Persaud of Fraud Squad; Woman Corporal Benjamin of Registry; Corporal Roopnarine of Major Crimes Unit; Constable Henry of Criminal Records Unit; Corporal Sobers of Crime Intelligence Unit; Sergeant Jackson of Crime Laboratory; Woman Corporal Abrams of Forensic Laboratory; among many others.

The Crime Chief, during his brief remarks, noted that the CID endured a number of challenges in investigating new and complex patterns of crime.

These included staged robberies, staged murders, a number of conspiracies where family members contracted individuals to commit murder, airport robberies, robberies at commercial banks, gang-related crime, piracy and white collar crimes.

Blanhum noted that the elite investigators attached to the CID worked assiduously to solve many of these crimes. The Police Commissioner, during his remarks, noted that the CID saw an improvement in tackling crime in the latter half of this year.

Nonetheless, he said crime will continue to be a major issue and in that regard, the CID has some major challenges ahead.

On that note, Persaud said it is critical that the

CID devise a plan to boost intelligence support, develop skills in investigators, boost operations in the use of undercover techniques, and embark on more training, among others.

However, he recognised that this would require the requisite funding.

The Commissioner also outlined several plans in the making for the New Year ahead, including the establishment of new Police stations at new locations, expansion of street camera programme, and the training and deployment of an additional 1200 recruits.

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guyanatimesgy.com

tuesday, december 22, 2015

News

BBCI toll reduction

Company forging ahead on agreement – as bondholders refuse interest reduction

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he Berbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI) is forging ahead with the reduction of its tolls even though its bondhold-

ers refuse to accept the unfavourable modifications of the terms and conditions of the current agreement between the two entities.

Two Christmas wishes, please

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Subsequent to reaching an agreement with the Guyana Government to reduce the tolls, the Bridge Company had asked its bondholders to approve for the interest rates applicable to Bonds 1 and 2 be reduced from nine per cent and 10 per cent per annum respectively, to 7.5 per cent and for the extension of the repayment period for Bonds 1 and 2 by an additional three and four years respectively, in equal semiannual payments.

The bondholders would have suffered tremendous losses on their multimillion-dollar investment in the Company, if they had

agreed to the proposal. The request to agree to the modified terms was an attempt by the Bridge Company to lessen its financial burden in order to facilitate the toll reductions.

Guyana Times understands that, during a special meeting called for this purpose, most of the bondholders were on the same page as the motions were voted against, forcing the BBCI management back to the drawing board.

During the meeting, several pension schemes, which have bonds in the Company, expressed concerns about the rate reduction, since the income of the pension schemes are directly linked to the current interest rates.

Notably, the current rates of return are already budgeted for in these pension schemes and to reduce the rates will create a shortfall in revenues or possibly a deficit, which will now have to be filled by another investment or an injection of cash by the employers.

The bondholders are the New Building Society, the National Insurance Scheme, Republic Bank Limited, Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry, Scotiabank, Citizens Bank, NEW GPC INC, Trust Company Guyana Limited, Hand-in-Hand Trust, Guyana Sugar Corporation Pension, Guyana Power and Light Pension, Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union Pension, Guyana Geology and Mines Pension, Demerara Bank Limited, Demerara Distillers Limited Pension, Massy Pension and Geddes Granger Pension.

Despite the majority of the bondholders’ rejection to this proposal, the Bridge Company moved forward and agreed to the toll reduction.

The Public Infrastructure Ministry and the BBCI finally brokered an agreement which will see the reduction in the tolls taking effect January 1, 2016.

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson had told Guyana Times that the initial proposal made by the government will remain the same.

Turn to page 13

hristmas is by far the most popular and celebrated holiday around the world. Individuals from various racial, cultural and religious backgrounds celebrate Christmas, although with varying levels of dynamism and depth.

In Guyana, the situation is no different, as demonstrated by the illumination of the Christmas tree at Giftland Mall in Georgetown and across the country.

Unfortunately, not everyone will experience a joyous and festive Dr Lomarsh Roopnarine Christmas this year.

Guyana has been reeling and reeking from crime, suicide, political recklessness and a sluggish economy, but its citizens have not been displaced like Syrian refugees. The horrible images of Syrian refugees on television would even break down the solipsist. Since the civil war began a few years ago in Syria, over four million Syrians have been displaced, over 300,000 have been killed, including over 12,000 children, over one million have been wounded or disabled, according to various human rights websites around the world.

My Christmas wish is that the Guyana Government would take in at least 2000 Syrian refugees and demonstrate to the world that Guyana may be a third world country, but its people are compassionate and complaisant. Most countries, including 30 states within the US, have already closed their immigration gates and doors to Syrian refugees in the aftermath of the terror attack in Paris and San Bernardino. The underlying fear is that to accept Syrian refugees would be to accept terrorists.

The last time Guyana entertained the idea of bringing in refugees was in late 1970s under the Forbes Burnham dictatorship.

Amerindian leaders, the Guyana Government as well as various religious evangelical groups and agencies agreed to bring about 10,000 Hmong refugees from wartorn Laos and settle them near Jonestown. The plan did not materialise largely due to the refugees themselves who wanted to stay in Laos and fight communism, although the refugees were uncomfortable with the idea of settling close to Jonestown and Burnham was using the refugees as a buffer between Guyana and Venezuela over the ongoing border controversy in that region.

The Syrian situation is different. Syrian refugees are not fighting but rather running away from war. That Syrian refugees would somehow support or become terrorists should not be the stumbling block to bringing them to Guyana. Among the millions of refugees, there has not been one terrorist, an indication that these people are looking for a stable life rather than supporting and promoting fundamentalist ideas. Moreover, Guyana will not have to shoulder all the responsibilities of resettling the refugees since there are a host of agencies and mechanisms in place to help on a short and long-term basis. The Syrian refugees might be a bargain rather than a burden to Guyana, since they are determined to experience a better life through sacrifice. After all, Syrians have been in Guyana for a long time dating back to the indentureship period. Beyond the plantations, they earned the reputation of being hard workers peddling goods and services from door to door.

My second Christmas wish is local, emerging from the proposal of the City Council of Georgetown to rename about 50 streets and places to celebrate 50 years of Guyana’s independence. I do not agree with this proposal since there are more pressing issues at hand such as criminal violence. Given the way things operate in Guyana, the proposal will become a reality and, therefore, it is a moot point to challenge it at this stage. What is of concern now is how the process of renaming street names will be conducted and carried out.

For example, who are the individuals on the Council? What is their expertise concerning the historical aspects of Georgetown? Which street names will change and which ones will stay and what is the justification for doing so? Which street names will take centre stage and why?

Having said this, I propose that one street in Georgetown should be named after Bechu. In a nutshell, Bechu was an indentured Indian in British Guiana during the last decade of the 19th century who challenged the ills of indentureship through numerous letters to the Chronicle. Bechu was eloquent, bold and defiant in his cause to reveal the injustices of indentureship. This was remarkable during the days when a majority of indentured Indians were non-literate to even challenge their basic existence much less to write about their experience from a position of resistance. Bechu’s leadership roles also challenged the thought that indentured labourers were spineless in their sojourn in British Guiana. Yet, this individual is practically unknown among Guyanese.

There is, to be sure, many who would like to suggest their favourite names as well. However, I am asking for Bechu, one name, to be chosen to represent and remind all Guyanese of those who endured hardships on those brutal tropical plantations during 80 years of indentured servitude. I might be incorrect, but I think there isn’t one street in Georgetown that is named after an indentured Indian. This seems strange since Indians have been in Guyana over 175 years and have become the majority population, although not in Georgetown. The street names in Georgetown reflect a EuroAfrican heritage with more emphasis on the former. The renaming of one street in the name of Bechu will be a minor step in correcting a historical wrong.

tuesday, december 22, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

11

News

Law students’ efforts must be Services boosted at Moleson Creek ferry service recognised – Minister Williams

Regina King, a GTA representative, presents two retractable banners to Ms Williams, Manager of the ferry terminal

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he Tourism Ministry is spearheading an intensive programme to enhance both the physical space and operational procedures at the Moleson Creek Ferry terminal, on the Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

The project is being led by the Ministry’s Director General Donald Sinclair, who is working in collaboration with the Guyana Tourism Authority, the Canawaima Authority, the Public Infrastructure Ministry and other entities.

On Saturday, a team that included several Tourism Development Officers spent the day at the terminal training and sensitizing workers, minibus drivers and conductors on higher quality service.

At the event, providers of transportation services were all presented with new uniforms with the emblazonment, “Guyana – South America Undiscovered”.

In addition, every passenger arriving on the early morning ferry was offered traditional Guyanese Christmas cake and ginger

beer, the latter the compliments of Banks DIH Ltd. The terminal at Springlands, Corentyne, is an important port of entry, particularly for visitors coming to Guyana from Suriname, French Guiana and Brazil via the Canawaima ferry.

The Tourism Ministry’s chief objective, the release from the entity stated, is to ensure that the physical facilities remain welcoming and that the passengers’ experience at the Guyana terminal is always hassle-free and orderly.

Meanwhile, Tourism Director General Donald Sinclair said that the Ministry over the next few weeks will engage the relevant authorities and lay out proposals for further enhancement of the facilities and improvements in the quality of services. Additional training in Customer Services is on the cards for front line operators who interact daily with the people passing through the terminal. The GTA has already begun a language programme aimed at improving the operators’ ability to communicate in Dutch and Portuguese.

Bladen Hall accident victim succumbs occasional opening of his eyes for about 30 seconds or less and the occasional uncontrolled movement of his right arm.

Since the accident, he was also unable to breathe on his own and needed respiratory assistance.

Last Tuesday, the driver of the minibus that struck the now dead man was re-

Dead: Udai Prakash Manieram

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dai Prakash Manieram, of Lot 27 Bladen Hall, Strathspey Public Road, East Coast of Demerara, who was struck by a speeding bus on December 11 has succumbed to his injuries at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Guyana Times was told that he passes away on Saturday. Manieram received severe head and neck injuries which led to massive internal bleeding.

Speaking with this newspaper, Manieram’s daughter, Reshma Manieram, said that following the accident, her father never fully regained consciousness.

Five days after the accident, the only movement family noticed saw was the

leased on station bail.

Manieram was heading home after work and was attempting to cross the Blanden Hall Public Road when the minibus, which was overtaking another vehicle, struck him.

Public spirited individuals rushed him to hospital. He will be laid to rest on December 27.

From left: Narissa Leander, Class of 2013-2014; Attorney General Basil Williams; Thandiwe Benn, Class of 2011-2012 and Eleanor Luckhoo, Class of 2014-2015

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he efforts of local lawyers who topped their classes as students at the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and Tobago were on Monday recognised by Attorney General Basil Williams.

The lawyers honoured were Eleanor Luckhoo,

Class of 2014-2015; Narissa Leander, Class of 2013-2014; Thandiwe Benn, Class of 2011-2012, and Raphael Adjodha, Class of 2012-2013.

Offering congratulations to the young lawyers, Williams said their hard work must be acknowledged.

He recalled that just before taking his present post, he was involved in what he described as a “stiff fight” in court during a jury trial with one of the lawyers, an attorney, whom he later discovered, had topped her class at the Trinidadian law school.

12 news Region 2 businessmen call for Department of Business tuesday, december 22, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

– Gaskin admits he has no solutions for Region’s economic stagnation

Queenstown resident Cortis Mentis raising a concern at the meeting

BY INDRAWATTIE NATRAM

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usinessmen residing in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) have requested the establishment of a Department of Business within the region to properly guide and advise them on new economic endeavours, as well as to assist in drafting project proposals.

This request was made by several businessmen on Monday when Business Minister Dominic Gaskin visited the region. During the visit, Gaskin met and interacted with members of the business community at two meetings – one at Charity and the other at Anna Regina.

During the meeting at Anna Regina, members of the business community raised a number of issues affecting them. Among the is-

sues raised were subsidies for rice farmers, availability of finance, status for the Aurora Land Development, rescheduling of the ferry service, revamping of the Guyana Police Force in G Division (Essequibo coastIslands), poor drainage and irrigation, establishment of a agro-processing facility, functioning Guyana School of Agriculture, National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NARIE) and finance for diversification.

Businessman Ramesh Ramotar during his presentation to the gathering called for the establishment of a department of business office. This sentiment was echoed by a number of other businessmen, who informed the Minister that businesses in the region are encountering difficulties in sourcing financing as a result of

the lack of knowledge on the proper presentation of project proposal. As such, a recommendation was made for the setting up of a small business bureau office also.

“What we need is a business bureau, let officers be on the ground to guide and help businesses and persons who are in need, monies are often available, yes, but most persons don’t have a clue how to get it and even if they know, they can’t prepare the plan to source,” Ramotar said.

Many other businessmen were in suppor of the call and also recommended that a Go-Invest office be in the same building with the department of business, if such is established.

Meanwhile, farmer’s representative Naithram,

Member of Parliament Hemraj Ramjkumar, REO Rupert Hopkinson, and Business Minister Dominic Gaskin at the meeting on Monday

need money to assist them or else the entire Region Two economy will go,” the AFC representative admitted.

In his address to the region’s business community, Minister Gaskin admitted that he has no solutions

“At the end of the day, I don’t have the answers and solutions for your region, as it relates to economic development it has to do with the regional leadership, those solutions and recommendations have to come from the Regional Officials as, investment priorities.” called for micro-financing to be made available to rice farmers in Region Two. Naithram said many farmers are willing to diversify but do not have the necessary finances to venture out. “Rice is in a serious situation. If rice farmers are to diversify, then we need persons to advise us in which sector is feasible, farmers

for the region’s economic development, adding that regional leadership has to deal with such situations.

Gaskin said that the economic development of any region is based on its regional leadership and the representation that is being made from the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) level for possible solutions.

“At the end of the day, I don’t have the answers and solutions for your region, as it relates to economic development, it has to do with the regional leadership, those solutions and recommendations have to come from the regional officials as investment priorities,” Gaskin explained.

He further stated that

the local regional authorities through the Neighbourhood Democratic Council and the RDC have the responsibilities to advocate and represent the people by drafting an economic development plan.

Gaskin further reiterated that once the Business Ministry is made aware of the possible investments that are available within the region through a plan, then potential investors can be invited.

“I believe with the evolution of power from central government to local authorities, this is the vision of the new Government, we want to see more independence and more political and economic leadership coming out from communities,” Gaskin said.

Speaking on the micro-financing project, the Minister said that financing can be sourced through the small business bureau to spur economic development.

He said the project is funded under the $10 million Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and has two phases. Currently, it is in the first phase, where a total of $300,000 can be made available to small entrepreneurs through the grant component.

Meanwhile, Region

Two Chairman, Devanand Ramdatt also supported the call for the establishment of a department of business.

Ramdatt said that the deterioration of the rice industry in the region has had a negative impact on the livelihood of farmers and their families. The Chairman called for the revamping of the Essequibo Chambers of Commerce as well as for a feasibility study to be conducted on lucrative areas for diversification.

Attending the meeting also were Regional Executive Officer Rupert Hopkinson and Member of Parliament Hemraj Rajkumar.

Nurse charged for stealing money from bank account

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32-year-old nurse was on Monday placed on $60,000 bail after she appeared before Magistrate Ann McLennan, charged with simple larceny.

Sharmain Blair, 32, a single mother of Lot 148 Supply, East Bank Demerara (EBD), denied the allegation which stated that during the month of April at Carmichael Street, Georgetown, she stole from Arthur Manget’s Nova Scotia bank account a sum of $500,000.

Defence Attorney Dexter Todd in a bail application told the court that his client is not a flight risk since she was released on her own recognisance for station bail pending her court appearance.

The Magistrate granted bail in the sum of $60,000 and adjourned the matter until January 18, 2016.

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tuesday, december 22, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Bleak outlook for Linden Shot businessman businesses during holidays on slow road to recovery

BY UTAMU BELLE

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ith just a few days until Christmas, the adrenaline rush for business owners and shoppers in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) appears to be at a maximum level.

Usually around this time, as like with other areas across the country, there is an expected increase in spending by consumers and businesses usually stock up on additional items to match customers spending power.

However, as some members of the community’s business community have revealed, there is a dull overcast on the business economy in Linden.

Guyana Times spoke to a number of business proprietors and shoppers at the Mackenzie Municipal Market on Monday to get a glimpse into the economic side of things. The market, situated at Central Mackenzie, is also considered the central shopping area within the Linden community.

A businesswoman involved in the sale of clothing and household items told this publication that she is experiencing her “worse year” since being in the business.

“It’s (business) not good at all. It’s so terrible and for me this is the first year since 2005 it’s looking so gloomy.

I doing business since 2005 and I never saw this yet,” she explained.

The atmosphere on

By Kristen Macklingam

F Sparse shopping in Linden

Monday appeared to be calm, with few shoppers purchasing household items such as vinyl, other decorative items and Pepper Pot meat, among other items.

However, business owners have agreed that there should have been a larger influx of shoppers by now.

“Business could have been better around this time of year. People hardly shopping. Things ain’t even pick up as yet but I’m still stocking up to see if it might improve at least by Wednesday,” another business woman related.

On the other hand, a customer complained of being faced with exorbitant prices around the Christmas season, stating that sometimes it’s more economical to shop in the capital city of Georgetown. She expressed great dissatisfaction, especially for the prices for decorative items.

“What I find here in Linden around this time is that things are expensive.

The prices on some items

like decorations double at Christmas time as businesses increase costs. Why if something is selling at one price all year it must get so expensive around this time?

I don’t think that is fair and that’s a big problem here.

At a time when customers looking for bargains, that is what they meet up with,” he stated.

Guyana Times also spoke to Hilton Lyle, another businessman from Linden who expressed similar sentiments. He explained too that there is need for consumer education, especially around the holidays.

“Here in Linden business is not at its best and right now the focus has shifted to a more household type shopping, since it’s Christmas time. Even the larger businesses which would normally do big giveaways, this year it’s like nothing or it’s not as big.

The whole atmosphere in Linden as it relates to business in general is slow, I guess it’s a global econom-

Company forging ahead...

The tolls of passenger cars and minibuses will be reduced from $2200 to $1900 while there will be a 10 per cent reduction for the other classes of vehicles. The subsidy offered to the Bridge Company will also remain the $40 million, Junior Infrastructure Minister Annette Ferguson confirmed.

The A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coali-

tion had strongly advocated for the reduction of the Berbice Bridge tolls, claiming that the fees were too burdensome on the already financially strained households in Berbice.

This belief propelled the Administration to work tirelessly to reduce the tolls. Deadlines were set and not met, but the new Administration did not succeed in persuading the Company to reduce the tolls

ic crisis. What I’ve noticed here in Linden is that people are not prioritising at all. Say for example you find a lot of people may be shopping for household items like flowers and so on. Those type of things are not priority. At this time they should be looking to stock up on food. I saw a programme in Georgetown where they were educating people on prioritising during the holidays and shopping things which are necessary. People need to be educated on these things... people are also traveling to Georgetown to shop things which are available right here in Linden and that is a major disadvantage for Linden businesses,” he said.

As some shoppers and proprietors in Linden look forward to better days before Christmas, they are also hopeful for business improvement all year round, where businesses can prosper and consumers receive better value for money.

From page 10

because of some major concerns relative to the financial stability of the BBCI and the positions of the various shareholders and investors. in August, Back the BBCI had rejected Government’s offer of financial subsidies to cover the loss in tolls, arguing that it could plunge into bankruptcy since the reduction was insufficient to offset its debts.

Consequently, it requested that Government extend the concession period from 21 to 50 years or increase the tolls by 55 per cent before it implemented the new fare structure. But Government refused, claiming the requests were wholly unacceptable.

This back-and-forth continued until finally BBCI announced it will accept Government’s offer.

ifty-year-old businessman Lebert Thomas, who was shot by gunmen in front of his Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara (ECD) home two days ago, is off to a slow recovery.

This is according to his daughter Jade Thomas who told Guyana Times on Monday that while her father was seriously injured, he has taken a turn for the better.

At present, the businessman is still a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital where he is being treated and monitored in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

Quick action by the doctors when the man was rushed to the Hospital after sustaining a gunshot wound to his abdomen saved his life.

The younger Thomas explained that her father would still have to undergo another surgery soon but at this point in time he was conscious and having conversations with his family when they visit.

According to the young woman, to date, the Police have not been able to arrest anyone in connection with the crime committed against her father, but the investigation is said to be ongoing.

She stated that her injured father told his relatives that he was unsure as to why the two men confronted him and even shot him.

“He told us that the men asked him where the money was and then told him to drop his car keys. So my father dropped the keys in the bin, but they didn’t bother with the keys because if they wanted it, they could have just bent down in the bin and got them. One of them

shot him and they began to flee, but they didn’t take the keys or even his money,” she explained. The motive of the crime remains unclear.

Guyana Times was told that the injured Thomas, although shot, pursued his attackers and began to fight with one of them near a trench in the area.

It was only then that the businessman realised that he had a bullet lodged in his body.

“He would have caught the man if he went into the trench too, but he said that is when he realise he was shot so he couldn’t in case he collapsed in the trench.

He came back and called out for our neighbour who alerted her relatives and ours, then was rushed to the hospital,” his daughter further stated.

She added that her father stated that he did not recognise the two perpetrators as he had never seen them before.

The injured man had been battling to stay alive after being shot by gunmen in the wee hours of Sunday.

He sustained severe injuries which resulted in one of his kidneys being badly damaged. As such, it had to be removed.

Reports are that the man was parking his motor vehicle in his yard around 00:15h on Sunday when the two gunmen pounced on him.

One of the perpetrators after confronting Thomas shot him to his abdomen.

His mother, Yvonne Isaacs, on Sunday had told Guyana Times that at that time, her son was not in “good shape”.

“By the grace of God, I am hoping he gets better soon. I am praying a lot for him,” Isaacs stated. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy. com)

14 news

tuesday, december 22, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Diamond/Grove Lions Club Richmond Hill seniors feted takes Christmas breakfast for the holidays to elderly home

Members of the Diamond/Grove Lions Club with the elderly at the breakfast on Sunday

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he Lions Club of Diamond/Grove hosted a Christmas breakfast on Sunday for residents and staff of the Gentle Women’s Home.

This is one of several activities the Club has initi-

ated as a form of spreading Christmas cheer to the elderly. At the event, Santa Claus distributed gifts to all present. There were also carol signing and steel pan music which was indeed welcomed by the res-

idents.

Public Relations Officer Lion, Petal Ridley said it was always a pleasant time to share the joy and memories of the season with the elderly. This initiative will be done annually.

City Constable slapped with assault charge

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City Constabulary Lance Corporal was on Monday released on self-bail by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan when she appeared before her charged with assaulting a civilian.

Denise Rowland, 51, of Lot 92 Section C Block Y, Grove Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara (EBD), denied the charge which read that on April 21 at Bourda, Georgetown, she unlawfully assaulted Royda Hatton.

Prosecutor Deniro Jones made no objections to bail nor did he divulge the particulars.

Lance Corporal Rowland was released on her own recognisance. The case will continue on January 15.

A section of the gathering at the luncheon

S

everal heads of companies and organisations of Richmond Hill, New York, along with dozens of volunteers feted some 500 senior citizens at a special holiday luncheon on Sunday in the heart of the Guyanese community at Villa Russo, NY. People of all ethnicities and of varied religions attended the gala luncheon that served a variety of Guyanese dishes and desserts.

The organisers noted that this is the season of peace and goodwill and caring for others, hence the community leaders thought it to be a great idea to host an end of year function to treat the elderly. The event included a traditional Guyanese holiday luncheon, followed by music and dancing interspersed with speeches. This

is the 11th year the luncheon is being hosted – initiated by Frank Singh, the Indo-Caribbean Federation and several volunteers. It started very small with just a few dozen seniors and has grown tremendously over the years.

The Villa Russo holiday luncheon was sponsored by several community organisations to show appreciation for the seniors who have had a very lonely life in the US. According to the organisers, “the event brings together people and helps to promote partnerships between businesses and the local communities.

It was funded by donations from several businesses and a host of volunteers who worked very hard to put together the programme and organise gifts for everyone.”

It was noted that the se-

nior citizens took part in the proceedings with lot of enthusiasm; singing, dancing and cheering performers who entertained them with a variety of Bollywood songs, chutney, and carols.

The elderly also sang several old Bollywood songs of yesteryear and took to the dance floor.

The luncheon was graced by several prominent politicians including Congressman Greg Meeks and Councilman David Weprin. The politicians presented awards and certificates of recognition to several community leaders who have performed yeoman service to help uplift life in the neighbourhood. This has been an annual rite in the community with organisers recommending names to politicians for honours.

Taxi driver on $150,000 bail for fraud

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Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD) man was on Monday placed on $150,000

bail by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan when he appeared before her at the Georgetown Magistrates’

Courts charged with fraudulent conversion.

Randy Persaud, 35, a taxi driver of Lot 474 Herstelling, denied the charge, which stated that during October and December 2015, at Georgetown while being solely entrusted by Yazmir Deonauth with 154 buckets of construction nails, 220 cases of Charmin toilet paper, and four pieces of bath armoury among other items valued at a total of $2,975,000 to sell and return the proceeds to Deonauth, he fraudulently converted the said items to his own use and benefit.

Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones made no objections to substantial bail being granted, adding that the defendant reportedly admitted to the offence. The defendant requested reasonable bail, stating that he was released on station bail and has since been reporting to the Police Station on a regular basis.

The defendant was placed on $150,000 bail.

The case will continue on January 15.

tuesday, december 22, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

15

Around the world

Six US troops killed by suicide Inquiry ordered after devastating mudslide in China bomber in Afghanistan

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ix American troops were killed in Afghanistan on Monday when a suicide bomber on a motorbike struck their patrol near Bagram air base, a US official said, in the latest highprofile attack claimed by Taliban insurgents.

Just days ago, the Pentagon warned of deteriorating security in Afghanistan in the second half of 2015 and a rise in the number of effective strikes

by Taliban insurgents.

NATO’s Resolute Support mission in Kabul said that the attack killed six Resolute Support troops and wounded three others, but declined to provide the nationalities of casualties.

A US official said all six killed were Americans. More than 2300 US troops have

A rocket barrage hits Kabul after the motorcycle-riding bomber kills six US troops near Bagram airbase [Al Jazeera]

died in the Afghan war since the 2001 invasion.

The Police Chief of Parwan Province said three Afghan Police had been wounded in the bombing, which was carried out just days after other suicide attacks on Kandahar air base in southern Afghanistan and on a Spanish Embassy

guesthouse in the Afghan capital, Kabul.

Bagram, around 40 kilometres (25 miles) to the north of Kabul, is one of the main bases for the 9800 US troops left in Afghanistan after international troops ended combat operations last year. (Excerpt from Reuters)

t least 85 people were missing after a huge mound of mud and construction waste collapsed at a business park in southern China and buried 33 buildings in the country’s latest industrial disaster.

Premier Li Keqiang ordered an official investigation into Sunday’s landslide in the southern boomtown of Shenzhen, just across the border from Hong Kong, which happened four months after huge chemical blasts at the northern port

of Tianjin killed more than 160 people.

The mud and waste smashed into multi-storey buildings at the Hengtaiyu industrial park in the city’s north-western Guangming New District, toppling them in collisions that sent rivers of earth skyward.

“The area affected equals 14 soccer pitches – so that gives you an idea of how big this thing was,” Al Jazeera’s Adrian Brown reported.

“Most of [the missing] are migrant workers,” he

A

Wak on the Somali border.

The Somali based alShabab group says it carried out the attack.

The group often carries out attacks in Kenya’s north-east.

The bus was travelling from the capital Nairobi to the town of Mandera.

When al-Shabab killed 148 people in an attack on Garissa University College in April, the militants reportedly singled out Christians and shot them, while freeing

many Muslims.

Last year, a bus was attacked near Mandera by alShabab militants, who killed 28 non-Muslims travelling to Nairobi for the Christmas holidays.

“The locals showed a sense of patriotism and belonging to each other,” Mandera Governor Ali Roba told Kenya’s private Daily Nation newspaper.

The militants decided to leave after the passengers’ show of unity, he added.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Jazeera)

Miss Universe host apologises after Miss Colombia mistakenly crowned

Kenyan Muslims shield Christians in Mandera bus attack group of Kenyan Muslims travelling on a bus ambushed

by Islamist gunmen protected Christian passengers by refusing to be split into groups, according to eyewitnesses.

They told the militants “to kill them together or leave them alone”, a local governor told Kenyan media.

At least two people were killed in the attack, near the north-eastern village of El

said, adding that it is usually migrant workers who are most badly affected by such disasters in China.

Speaking to the official Xinhua news agency, a local worker said: “I saw red earth and mud running towards the company building.”

One woman told the Shenzhen Evening News newspaper on Sunday that she saw her father buried by earth in his truck. (Excerpt from Al

Miss Philippines was then crowned Miss Universe 2015

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he host of the Miss Universe has apologised after mistakenly naming the wrong woman as winner, leaving Miss Colombia empty-handed.

After the error, Ariadna Gutierrez was instead declared runner-up and surrendered her crown to Miss Philippines, Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach. #MissUniverse2015 be-

came Twitter’s biggest trend of the night as social media users expressed their disbelief.

Wurtzbach has since told reporters that she wishes Gutierrez well.

“I’m very sorry, I did not take the crown away from her and I wish her well in whatever she wants to pursue after this pageant,” she said.

Gutierrez also addressed fans in a backstage video that has been shared on the pageant’s official page.

She said: “Everything happens for a reason so I’m happy for all that I did.”

At the end of the night in Las Vegas, Ms Gutierrez was named first runner-up followed by Olivia Jordan from the United States.

The host Steve Harvey responded, saying it was “his mistake” and he would take responsibility for not reading the winning card correctly.

“I’d like to apologise wholeheartedly to Miss Colombia & Miss Philippines for my huge mistake. I feel terrible,” he tweeted. The message was re-tweeted more than 70,000 times.

“I don’t want to take away from this amazing night and pageant. As well as the wonderful contestants – they were all amazing.” (Excerpt from BBC News)

Ousted Barbados Opposition MP challenging expulsion in court Venezuela-Argentina spat

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lawsuit filed by expelled parliamentarian Dr Maria Agard is set to be heard before the court on Wednesday, a month after she was ousted from the Barbados Labour Party (BLP).

Dr Agard was kicked out of the BLP by the Party’s National Council on November 22, over what the Party says was inappropriate conduct and her failure to be a team player. It followed a four-year battle with the executive of her own branch that recently played out in the traditional and social media.

Opposition Leader and Party Chairman Mia Mottley and BLP General Secretary Dr Jerome Walcott have been named as defendants in the suits in which Agard’s Attorneys, Hal Gollop QC and Lynette Eastmond, are asking the court to rule on what she claims are the Party’s flagrant breaches of the rules of natural justice.

They are arguing that

over human rights comments

V

Expelled Opposition MP Dr Maria Agard (right) and one of her Attorneys, Hal Gollop QC, on the night of her expulsion (Barbados

Today photo)

there were no procedural rules for instituting disciplinary hearings in the Party’s constitution.

Agard’s lawyers had given the BLP seven days to reverse the expulsion, but got no response and therefore proceeded with the legal ac-

tion.

After the National Council made its ruling, Mottley had said the decision to expel Agard was not an easy one but it had to be taken as a matter of principle. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

enezuela has accused the new Argentine President Mauricio Macri of meddling in its internal affairs after he criticised its human rights record.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Delci Rodriguez hit back after Macri made his remarks at a meeting of regional leaders in Paraguay.

The two countries had previously been allies for more than a decade.

The United Nations, the European Union and the United States have also put pressure on Venezuela to release jailed Opposition Leaders.

Speaking at the summit of the regional Mercosur bloc, Macri called on all South American leaders to push for the release of Venezuelan political leaders.

“There can be no place for ideological persecution in Mercosur member states,”

President Macri’s comments are the first clash between him and the socialist Venezuelan Government of Nicolas Maduro

Macri said.

The Venezuelan Government has denied holding political prisoners, but the jailing of several high-profile Opposition Leaders like former Mayors Leopoldo Lopez and Antonio Ledezma has drawn condemnation from human rights groups, the UN, the EU and the US. Leopoldo Lopez was sentenced to nearly 14 years in

jail in September on charges of inciting violence during anti-Government protests last year in which 43 people died.

In response to Argentina, the Venezuelan Foreign Minister, Delci Rodriguez, accused Argentina of not bringing to justice those who had committed human rights abuses during the military Government of the 70s and 80s in Argentina.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

16 news

tuesday, december 22, 2015| guyanatimesGY.com

Would GDF ranks receive Digicel Brand Ambassador joins in spreading Christmas “traditional” tax-free bonus? – Rohee questions cheer at Sophia Care Centre

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he People’s Progressive Party (PPP) is enquiring whether or not the current Administration has put an end to a tradition it started, whereby it gives to ranks of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) an end-of-the-year extra tax-free bonus on their salaries.

PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee, speaking at the Party’s weekly press conference on Monday, disclosed that it is extremely concerned that the annual “Xmas Extra Month TaxFree Salary” for GDF ranks is yet to be announced by President David Granger.

According to Rohee, this announcement should have been made when the President served lunch to the ranks at the annual Christmas Luncheon, which was held on December 19.

“Apart from wishing the ranks a “Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year” and regaling the ranks about his days as platoon and Base Commander at Camp Stephenson, absolutely nothing was said about the Xmas Extra Salary Tax Free bonus,” Rohee stated.

Therefore, Rohee is wondering whether or not the new Administration will be denying the GDF ranks their much deserved Christmas bonus.

Even though the ranks will be receiving the $50,000 tax-free bonus, which will be given to public servants who meet the criteria, Rohee insisted that the traditional tax-free bonus given to the ranks would have been worth more.

“How would you equate 50K with a man who might be getting 100K as his salary? You see, in the Joint Services, you have different levels of salary… if I was earning 250K, I would have gotten 250K addition to what I would have gotten at the end of December.

I would have been looking forward to that,” he pointed out.

Rohee highlighted that this tradition was laid down by the PPP/C Administration and was practiced over the years.

“In the circumstances, the PPP calls on the Granger Administration to make an announcement on the matter immediately since Guyanese are in the midst of the Christmas season which as everyone knows is the season for caring and sharing,” Rohee said.

Barnwell at the Centre on Monday

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s Christmas fast approaches, everyone is excited about presents, shopping and parties.

On Monday, Christopher Barnwell, with some assistance from Digicel, hosted a party for the boys and girls at the Sophia Care Centre.

The West Indies all-

rounder also made a donation of appliances to the Centre. These included several DVD players and a microwave, along with a quantity of books.

“I believe that once we are at a place in life where we can help, we should and I am happy to be able to help

these kids,” he commented.

More than 80 boys and girls were treated to a good time with Santa, presents and goodies. Sophia Care Centre Administrator, Mrs Blentman, was delighted at the gesture from the cricketer and expressed her thanks while receiving the donation.

Wildlife Conservation and Management Authority Bill for Parliament soon

BY KRISTEN MACKLINGAM

T

hroughout the years, the protection and preservation of Guyana’s biodiversity has been evident with much attention being placed on the way wildlife is managed and preserved locally.

As such, Government is seeking to bring to the National Assembly a Wildlife Conservation and Management Authority Bill which aims at having effective conservation and man-

agement of the country’s wildlife.

Minister with responsibility for natural resources and the environment, Raphael Trotman, during his first appearance before the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Natural Resources on Monday stated that this Bill is included in some of the legislative that is being proposed for 2016.

He stated that if this Bill is not brought to the House by next Thursday, then it will be laid in Parliament

during the first sitting of 2016.

Guyana Times understands that wildlife is a part of Guyana’s natural resources and patrimony and that there should be a new approach to how wildlife is being used by persons.

It is hoped that this Bill will also ensure that future safeguards are set up for those who involve themselves in conservation and trade to operate under strict rules and guidelines.

Additionally the Government will be submitting new regulations for zoos in Guyana, he said. “There is a proposal for a private zoo.

So one has to ensure that if we are going to go that way, there must be regulations to govern the keeping of animals, ensuring that is done in a humane way,

breeding and so forth. Also, we have a Land Surveyors Act which has been passed but regulations have to be brought and those are already completed and will be coming in the first quarter of 2016,” Minister Trotman announced.

Meanwhile, the Cabinet has also approved a National Land Commission to be established.

“It is expected that this Commission will go through the length and breadth of Guyana and take into concern the vex issue of course, of Amerindian lands, and extensions, and ancestral lands, so that Commission will be put in place in 2016.

Also, we are reviewing our forestry regulations and a draft of those regulations is currently with the Attorney General’s Chambers. And

those are some of the legislative initiatives we have for 2016,” he posited.

According to the Minister, in the area of environmental management, the “Three Parks Initiative” is still high on the agenda of his Government.

“This includes the National Park as we know it, the Botanical Gardens and the Joe Vieira park commonly referred to as the “Three Parks.” The initiative of course is to rehabilitate and to upgrade all three simultaneously but for now, emphasis is being placed on the national park and the botanical gardens and zoo…

We are as well of course monitoring our activities in the protected areas system which includes Kaieteur, National Park, Shell Beach and the Kanuku mountains range,” Minister Trotman further stated.

He added that with regards to the “Guyana Protected Area Trust Fund” which is being chaired by Retired Major General Joe Singh, disbursements have not yet been made.

“It is a Fund to which contributions are given. I don’t believe that disbursements have been done but they are getting ready to do so... So we are focusing on several things including of course, oil and gas being on top of our agenda as we prepare for the inevitable production of oil and gas in Guyana.” (kristenm@guyanatimesgy.com)

17

news

tuesday, december 22, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Guyana eyes 2016 Great things in store for for EITI candidacy Bartica – President – Multi-Stakeholder Group established

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uyana is set to make a bid to join the globallyrecognised governance framework for the natural resources sector, Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (EITI) in 2016, according to Governance and Patrimony Minister Raphael Trotman.

Trotman made the disclosure at the first technical working group meeting with stakeholders and members of civil society on the EITI at the Cara Hotel on Monday, noting that the initiative must be described as a global governance structure.

Minister Trotman spoke of the ongoing efforts to fulfil the mandates of the application process to become an EITI Candidate.

“We have completed the first two steps in this process with the commitment of Government, and the selection of the high-level and working-level focal points being myself as Minister of Governance, and Tamara Khan, Governance Officer at the DGNRE [the Department of Governance, Natural Resources and Environment],” Trotman explained.

He noted that the technical working group meeting was the third step which saw the establishment of a MultiStakeholder Group which would support the final step of the creation of an agreed work plan in keeping with reporting and validation deadlines of the EITI Board.

The 17-member group will comprise five Government representatives, five representatives from the industry and seven civil society representatives.

Already Larry Carryl, Dr Mellissa Ifill, Gomin Camacho, Mike McCormack, Jocelyn Dow, Paul Atkinson, Curtis Bernard and Sharon Atkinson were identified from civil society.

Governance and Patrimony Minister Raphael Trotman

“The first round of capacity building required to get the group through this latter step, before an application can be submitted, is likely to come in January 2016 when our sister Caricom country Trinidad and Tobago’s EITI and the EITI Secretariat themselves conduct various working sessions for this group which we are initiating today (Monday),” the Minister said.

He noted that in 2013, the Government joined the ranks of those States pledging their commitment to implementation and this year, the new Administration recommitted to this process recognising that normal channels of public accountability were often lacking in resource-dependent countries, because the Government has an autonomous source of revenue.

“It is recognised as the definitive structure for transparency when it comes to the handling of natural resources. The business of the EITI is to strengthen public and private systems which touch and concern a nation’s extractive industries and the wealth emanating therein.

This strengthening of systems seeks to create transparency,

accountability, public involvement in the debate and ultimately better involvement of the nation’s wealth,” he added.

According to Trotman, these ideals are to be achieved within a governance context of working together; Government, civil society and industry combining efforts to realise the best of what is intended for democratic States, in particular, improved levels of development for their citizens.

“The EITI constructs, facilitates and guides this process of collaborative governance and resource management by working with the State and the Multi-Stakeholder Group to achieve something we may boldly call transformative,” the Minister said.

Pointing out the importance of the Initiative in Guyana, Trotman said the Government can benefit from following an internationally recognised transparency standard that demonstrates commitment to reform and anti-corruption, and leads to improvements in the tax collection process and enhanced trust and stability in a volatile sector.

He also noted that companies would benefit from a level playing field in which all companies were required to disclose the same information.

“Citizens and civil society benefit from receiving reliable information about the sector and a multi-stakeholder platform where they can better hold the Government and companies to account. Energy security is enhanced by a more transparent and level playing field. This increased stability encourages long-term investment in production – and thus improves the reliability of supply,” he said.

The next meeting is planned for mid-January.

Municipal officers undergoing training to assist new Councillors

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unicipalities have a responsibility to promote equity among citizens to improve their economic future and quality of life, Minister within the Communities Ministry, Dawn HastingsWilliams said on Monday.

The Minister expressed that notion at the opening session of a recent two-day Local Economic Development workshop targeting administrative staff of the New Amsterdam Municipality, Rose Hall Town Council, Linden Municipality, Anna Regina Municipality, and Corriverton Town Council.

The interactive workshop, held at the Herdmanston Lodge, Georgetown, was facilitated by the Caribbean Local Economic Development Project (CARILED) and presented by Dr Gordon McIntosh. This workshop is one in a series designed to provide support for municipal development with re-

spect to capacity building.

According to Minister Hastings-Williams, the Ministry is partnering with CARILED to build the capacity of service officers in preparation of the March 18, 2016 Local Government Elections. The aim is to have technically capable administrative personnel, who understand the respective roles and responsibilities of the municipality, businesses and Government, to work along with newly elected Councillors.

She emphasised that the creation of a Plan of Action for Municipal Development is needed to propel local economic development.

Meanwhile, Roger Rogers, National CARILED Coordinator, said CARILED recognised that the creation of a Plan of Action for Municipal Development would be futile without the necessary technical and capacity building of relevant

officers to support its implementation.

Therefore, equally important is an understanding of the utility of the process of strategic planning and Local Economic Development (LED). He pointed out that LED was not a new concept, however, it has returned to the global agenda within the last decade primarily because of the failed model that was being implemented over the past three decades.

Rogers stated that the thrust of LED emphasises the strategic utilisation of resources within communities and their strategic alignment to exploit the comparative advantage to create income generating activities and other economic opportunities for communities.

Participants expressed gratitude for the workshop and that the newly elected councillors should benefit from similar workshops.

President David Granger surrounded by excited children and their parents during a toy drive in Bartica

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resident David Granger declared that there was much in store for Bartica during a toy drive at the Bartica Secondary School, where approximately 400 children received Christmas presents, compliments of the Government of Guyana.

Referencing the official naming of the community as a town in 2016, the President said, “Bartica is going to be a

rich, green town. It is going to be a prosperous town and all of you…will be able to enjoy a good life in years to come.”

The Head of State was accompanied by Social Cohesion Minister Amna Ally. Also assisting the President was Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson.

The President added that befitting the season, his vis-

it was one of peace and goodwill, and emphasised that Christmas was a time for children.

So far, President Granger has distributed toys at Baracara and Sandvoort in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) and Lusignan, Buxton and Georgetown in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica).

Roraima Airways hosts annual veteran’s luncheon

Gerry Gouveia interacts with some of the veterans present at the event

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eterans of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on Monday received special recognition by Roraima Airways as they hosted their Annual Veteran’s Luncheon at the Roraima Duke Lodge, Kingston.

This event has now been hosted by Roraima Airways for the 5th consecutive year.

Chief Executive Officer of Roraima Airways and former Pilot of the GDF, Captain Gerry Gouveia said that the initiative is a way of showing appreciation for veterans.

The annual event featured a variety of attractions which included live entertainment, gift giveaways and a chance for the veterans to express themselves through the performing arts.

Live entertainment was provided by the LaRamade Broadway group out of New York and local performers under the sound engineering of the Duke Lodge sound system.

Captain Gouveia led the singing of patriotic songs as a sign of respect, appreciation and honour for the veterans.

Speaking at the event, Gouveia welcomed all the veterans present and expressed his heartfelt appreciation for all the work that they did throughout the years that kept Guyana and Guyanese within the country safe.

“This is an appreciation for the work that you have done, you have worked for 18 to 19 hours a day for many years to ensure that our borders are kept safe and for that we must never forget you. You are not just veterans, you are veterans that hit some bumpy roads in your lives and are now disabled, and have no sight and so on. The least that we can do today is to take care of these veterans not only in the Army but in the fire force and Police Force” he stated with a smile to the veterans present.

He added that it was a privilege for him to work alongside some of the veterans present in uniform and thanked all for their wholehearted service towards Guyanese.

Also present at the event were those who did not serve

in uniform but nevertheless served Guyanese in some form of public service, such as being teachers, nurses etc.

“All Guyanese who served in some way should be acknowledged,” Gouveia explained.

Albert Thorne, who served as a cook in the Army, expressed his delight to be that person that ensured that the soldiers who risked their lives every day were fed.

“It was a very exciting experience for me to ensure that the officers got three meals plus each day. Sometimes we work all day and sometimes all night so that the soldiers could get their meals on time.

At this moment, I can say that it was exciting and that I’ve enjoyed feeding my soldiers,” he explained.

Retired Major Norman McLean, guest of honour at the luncheon and a man who gave most of his life in the National Service to Guyana, expressed his delight to be among those who served Guyana faithfully and thanked Gouveia for hosting the event.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesday, DECember 22, 2015

ARCHIE

Don’t go into battle with someone who just wants the (March 21- best for you. Self-discipline April 19) and personal changes that could improve your image, appearance or reputation will pay off.

ARIES

The sky is the limit. If you TAURUS aim high, you will finish what (April 20- you start. Picking up odds May 20) and ends for the upcoming festivities will get you in the spirit of the season. Romance is encouraged.

dilbert

Stay focused or you will GEMINI (May 21- misinterpret a situation or ofJune 20) fer. Read between the lines and don’t leave anything to chance. If you want to make a change, do your research first.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

Put your heart into making your home ready for the holiday season. Spending time with friends, family or children will brighten your day. Update your look in order to receive compliments.

Control your emotions and LEO avoid getting into a spat. At (July 23work and at home, you are Aug. 22) best off keeping the peace.

Make personal improvements instead of trying to change others.

Calvin and Hobbes

If you control whatever sitVIRGO uation you find yourself in, you (Aug. 23will be deemed a hero. Your Sept. 22) insightful way of handling others will result in an unexpected surprise. Romance will improve your personal life.

Don’t run yourself ragged LIBRA (Sept. 23- trying to take care of demandOct. 23) ing people who have little concern for your well-being.

Focus on yourself, not those who take advantage of you.

SUDOKU

Your imagination will SCORPIO lead you in a wonderful direc(Oct. 24tion. Creative ideas will help Nov. 22) you incorporate comfort and convenience into your living quarters. Someone you love will surprise you.

Bring about changes that SAGITTARIUS will improve your life. Put an (Nov. 23end to bad habits and unsaDec. 21) voury influences. Choose your lot in life. Don’t let others determine where you’ll end up.

solution for Last Published Puzzle

Business and personCAPRICORN al relationships will devel(Dec. 22- op through networking funcJan. 19) tions and social activities.

Attend an industry party and explore the possibilities.

Romance will enhance your life.

AQUARIUS You’ll have some good (Jan. 20- ideas that, once developed, Feb. 19) will help you bring in extra cash. Take action and discuss your plans with someone you feel is a good sounding board.

Offer your help to a cause PISCES (Feb. 20- you believe in. Find out what March 20) you can do to assist older relatives during the taxing festive season. Someone you love will give you something special.

tuesday, december 22, 2015

19

SCG/Trophy Stall 10-over tapeball

Airport XI beat Kings XI to lift title

By Avenash Ramzan

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he Soesdyke Cricket Group (SCG)/Trophy Stall 10-over tapeball cricket competition concluded on Saturday night with Airport XI beating Kings XI to lift the title.

Playing at the Soesdyke Community Centre Ground, Airport XI defeated Kings XI by five wickets with one delivery remaining. Batting first, Kings XI posted 75-8 with Leon Dundas making 21 and Anil Somwaru picking up 3-9 and Colin Benn 2-6.

Airport XI then reached 80-5 in 9.5 overs with extras contributing a huge 54 runs, including 46 wides. Earlier in the day, Airport XI and Kings had won their semi-final games to advance to the championship game.

Airport XI got the better

Airport XI players proudly display the championship trophy

of Hill Foot by five wickets.

Hill Foot made 91-5 with Avinash Mohabir scoring 37 and Rickey Sergeant taking 2-5. Airport XI then knocked

off the target, reaching 92-5, with Sunil Sarjoo and Noel Hodge hitting 28 and 23 respectively.

In the other semi-final,

Kings XI had thrashed Rubis XI by 45 runs. Harrylall Baboolall (47) and Alex Dundas (20) were the leading scorers for Kings XI in

Blatter, Platini banned by FIFA for 8 years

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IFA President Sepp Blatter and European soccer boss Michel Platini were both banned from soccer for eight years on Monday for ethics violations, leaving the global game leaderless as it struggles with a swirl of corruption cases.

The pair, who were also fined, had been suspended in October while an investigation was carried out into a 2 million Swiss franc ($2.02 million) payment that soccer’s global governing body made to Platini in 2011, with Blatter’s approval.

The decision means that Blatter’s 17 years at the helm of world soccer will end in disgrace, and spells the end of Platini’s hopes of replacing the 79-year-old in a presidential election in February.

The Swiss, who spent four decades at FIFA, came out swinging, holding a news conference to tell reporters that he was sorry only that the president of FIFA was being treated as a “punching ball”.

“I will fight for me and I will fight for FIFA,” said Blatter, unshaven and with a sticking plaster on his cheek, but defiant.

He said FIFA’s Ethics Committee had no right to relieve him of his duties and that he would challenge the decision in FIFA’s Appeals Committee and, if necessary, the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne, Switzerland, and in the Swiss courts.

The committee said it had not found evidence that the payment, made at a time when Blatter was seeking re-elec-

Sepp Blatter

Platini,” said a statement, referring to the ‘bribery and corruption’ section of the code.

But the committee’s adjudicatory chamber did find that the payment had been “without a legal basis” and a breach of regulations governing gifts and other benefits.

It said Blatter “found himself in a situation of conflict of interest, despite which he continued to perform his related duties, failing to disclose said

tion, constituted a bribe, which meant the men were spared potential lifetime bans.

Verbal agreement but it said the transaction had nevertheless lacked transparency and presented a conflict of interest. Platini, like Blatter, has denied wrongdoing.

The ethics inquiry began after the Swiss attorney general decided to open criminal proceedings against Blatter over the payment to Platini. The office is also investigating FIFA’s award of the 2018 and 2022 World Cup finals to Russia and Qatar.

Blatter and Platini argued that the payment followed from a verbal agreement they made in 1998, and concerned work that Platini did for FIFA between 1998 and 2002.

“The evidence available to the adjudicatory chamber in the present case was not sufficient to establish, to the extent required, that Mr Blatter sought the execution or omission of an official act from Mr

Michel Platini

situation and the existence of personal interests linked to his prospective activities”.

“By failing to place FIFA’s interests first and abstain from doing anything which could be contrary to FIFA’s interests, Mr Blatter violated his fiduciary duty to FIFA,” it added.

Abuse of office The chamber concluded that Blatter’s actions ultimately demonstrated “an abusive execution of his position as President of FIFA”.

It also said Platini’s argument that there had been an oral agreement for the pay-

ment had not been convincing, and that he, too, had abused his position as a FIFA vice-president and Executive Committee member.

“Mr Platini failed to act with complete credibility and integrity, showing unawareness of the importance of his duties and concomitant obligations and responsibilities,” it said.

Blatter was fined 50,000 Swiss francs and Platini, who boycotted the ethics committee hearing as unfair, 80,000.

UEFA said it was disappointed with the ruling and “supports Michel Platini’s right to a due process and the opportunity to clear his name”.

Until his suspension, Platini had been the frontrunner to succeed Blatter at the top of world soccer. Following Monday’s ruling, the British bookmaker William Hill made Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al Khalifa, president of the Asian Football Confederation, the 6-5 favourite, followed by Jordan’s Prince Ali al Hussein on 13-8 and UEFA General Secretary Gianni Infantino, of Switzerland, on 5-2.

In the United States, prosecutors have indicted 27 current or former soccer officials, including eight former FIFA Executive Committee members and the current heads of both the North and South American federations, over allegations that they ran bribery schemes connected to the sale of television rights for soccer competitions. Twelve people and two sports marketing companies have been convicted. (Reuters Sport)

their total of 136-5. Sherfane Rutherford (2-22) was the pick of the bowlers for Rubis XI, who were restricted to 91-4 when the overs finished. Jamal Hinckson and Rutherford made 28 and 17 respectively.

The third-place playoff proved to be woefully onesided, as Rubis XI whipped Hill Foot by nine wickets.

Avinash Mohabir struck 70 in Hill Foot’s 125-3, before Hinckson blasted 91 and Shawn DeSouza made 17 in Rubis XI’s response of 128-1 in nine overs.

For championship honours, Airport XI pocketed $100,000; runners-up Kings XI took home $50,000 and Rubis XI got $25,000 for finishing third. All the cash prizes were accompanied by trophies.

Several individual accolades were also handed out.

Anil Somwaru (3-19) was named Man-of-the-Match in the final; Avinash Mohabir (249 runs and eight wickets) was adjudged Most Valuable Player of the tournament; Bhojnarine Singh of Soesdyke Vishnu Mandir was named Best Batsman for his 263 runs; and Mark Williams of Kuru Kururu was adjudged Best Bowler for his haul of 17 wickets.

The tournament, which attracted teams along the East Bank Demerara corridor, was sponsored exclusively by the Trophy Stall and organised by the Soesdyke Cricket Group.

Coordinator Dave Singh said the competition was a grand success, and he expressed gratitude to the teams and spectators for their support. (aramzan@ guyanatimesgy.com)

ICC hands official warning to Nagpur

Spinners took 33 of the 40 wickets that fell during the Nagpur Test. (BCCI photo)

T

he ICC has given the Jamtha Stadium in Nagpur, which hosted the third Test between India and South Africa, an official warning under its pitch monitoring process. The ICC agreed with the ‘poor’ rating that Jeff Crowe, the match referee, had given the pitch in his report.

According to an ICC release, its sanction “took into consideration the fact that there had been no concerns about the performance of the pitch after any of the other international matches played at this venue”.

Under the section of the ICC’s pitch monitoring process titled ‘Sanctions for Substandard Pitches and/or Outfields’, the penalty for a pitch earning a ‘poor’ rating for the first time is “a warning and/or a fine not exceeding USD 15,000 given together with a directive for

appropriate corrective action”.

Geoff Allardice, the ICC’s general manager - cricket, and Ranjan Madugalle, its chief match referee, made their decision after watching footage of the match, reviewing Crowe’s post-match report, and taking the BCCI’s response into account.

The BCCI’s official response to Crowe’s rating is not known, but board officials have been vocal in support of the pitch, pointing to what they felt were “inconsistencies” in the match referee’s report, and contending that “excessive turn” - one of Crowe’s criticisms of the pitch - was “subjective”.

Thirty three of the 40 wickets that fell during the Test, which lasted just under three days, went to spinners. No batsman from either side made a half-century. (Cricinfo)

20 ‘King’ Williamson seals 2-0 series sweep

guyanatimesGY.com

tuesday, december 22, 2015

New Zealand, with the series trophy after a 2-0 sweep. (Getty Images)

T

wo balls into the day and every question that hung over the Hamilton Test was given an answer. New Zealand would win it, and the series as well, to equal their longest undefeated home streak in Tests. Kane Williamson would get his century, finish unbeaten and secure the most Test runs by a batsman from his country in a calendar year.

The one from whom he took that record, Brendon McCullum, said “it was an innings of sheer class from the king.” The ICC seemed to agree, as half an hour later, Williamson became the No. 1-ranked batsman in Test cricket moving past AB de Villiers.

New Zealand needed 47 runs. Sri Lanka needed five wickets. The game was still in the balance when day four commenced. But its eventual outcome became clear when Williamson met a short ball from Dushmantha Chameera and addressed it to the long-leg boundary with the gentlest little pull.

Sri Lanka’s fastest bowler may have been on show and balls dug in had hurried almost every other batsman on a pacy Seddon Park pitch, but everything happened in slow motion for Williamson, as if he had discovered the secret to manipulate space-time. His

108 came off only 164 balls.

It was his fifth century in 2015, another New Zealand record, and 13th overall.

If he keeps that rate up in 2016 he could break Martin Crowe’s New Zealand record of 17 Test centuries.

Crowe took 12 years to get there, Williamson is only in his fifth.

Sri Lanka’s challenge this morning did not seem the most potent. Angelo Mathews often had only one slip, and a gully as an afterthought, even to a brand new batsman in BJ Watling. New Zealand found singles with relative ease and Williamson pierced gaps as he pleased.

He got to his ton by steering another short ball to the long-leg boundary, and went past McCullum’s 1164 runs in 2014. Five overs later, he was walking back

having helped his team to 13 matches at home without a defeat, a streak stretching back to March 2012.

Sri Lanka had much to rue at the end of it all. A fine counterattack to score the biggest total of the match in the first day, a first-innings lead of 55, a strong opening stand thereafter, not to mention Chameera’s wholehearted effort - 9 for 115 in the match. Everything looked good for their chances of victory, and a drawn series in overseas conditions.

Then their batting collapsed - 10 wickets for 62 runs in 13.5 overs. There was no recovery from that.

So they have to settle for two wins and 10 losses in New Zealand from 17 tries since 1983. Only Bangladesh and Zimbabwe have fared worse. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD Sri Lanka 1st innings 292 New Zealand 1st innings 237 Sri Lanka 2nd innings 133 New Zealand 2nd innings (target: 189 runs) TWM Latham c Pradeep b Chameera 4 MJ Guptill c Karunaratne b 1 Chameera KS Williamson not out 108 LRPL Taylor c sub (JDF Vandersay) b Chameera 35 BB McCullum* c Mathews b Chameera 18 MJ Santner c †Chandimal b

4 Lakmal BJ Watling† not out 13 Extras (lb 1, nb 5) 6 Total (5 wickets; 54.3 overs; 260 mins) 189 Did not bat: DAJ Bracewell, N Wagner, TG Southee, TA Boult Fall of wickets: 1-4, 2-11, 3-78, 4-130, 5-142 Bowling: PVD Chameera 171-68-4, RAS Lakmal 12-420-1, HMRKB Herath 11-048-0, N Pradeep 12-1-43-0, AD Mathews 1-0-4-0, TAM Siriwardana 1.3-0-5-0.

NBA Roundup

Irving returns in win for Cavs

K

yrie Irving scored 12 points and played 17 minutes in his season debut and LeBron James had 23, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 108-86 victory Sunday over the Philadelphia 76ers, who lost their 10th straight and fell to 1-28.

Irving was on the floor for the first time since breaking his left kneecap in Game 1 of the NBA Finals against Golden State. The Cavs managed without him, going 17-7 to start the season. But Cleveland is more complete with the All-Star point guard healthy and back.

Matthew Dellavedova made four 3-pointers and added 20 points for the Cavs, who improved to 12-1 at home and are eyeing a Christmas Day game against the Warriors.

James didn’t play in the fourth quarter, logging a season-low 26 minutes.

F

Tokyo Sexwale

World Cup. A US criminal indictment claims the money was paid to Warner via a Fifa account, disguised as football development cash, in order to secure votes for South Africa’s bid.

A grand jury is empowered under US law to investigate potential criminal conduct and determines whether criminal charges should be brought.

A spokesman for Sexwale

points and added seven assists for the Heat. They trailed by 12 at one point and were down 10 at the half.

The Heat shot 57 per cent and played the final 13:37 without Goran Dragic. He was ejected for the first time in his career after arguing two foul calls.

Damian Lillard had 32 points and nine assists for Portland.

Kyrie Irving

Nerlens Noel had 15 points and 12 rebounds for the brutal Sixers, now 0-17 on the road and on their second double-digit losing streak.

Heat 116, Trail Blazers 109 Chris Bosh scored 29 points, Hassan Whiteside shook off a slow first half to finish with 22 points and 11 rebounds, and Miami beat Portland.

Dwyane Wade had 18

FIFA presidential candidate appears before US grand jury in FIFA probe ifa presidential candidate Tokyo Sexwale has appeared before a US grand jury in New York as part of an on-going investigation into World Cup bribes.

The BBC has learned that he was questioned in relation to an alleged $10m corrupt payment from South Africa to ex-Fifa vice president Jack Warner.

Sexwale appeared as a potential witness at the FBI’s request on December 17.

He was a member of the bid board that successfully campaigned for his home country to host the 2010

LeBron James

told the BBC: “He did appear before a grand jury. The FBI said he needed to appear and he went as a potential witness.”

Sexwale is one of five candidates in the running for the Fifa presidency, with the election taking place on 26 February.

The news of the investigation into Sexwale comes after Sepp Blatter, the president of world football’s governing body, and Uefa boss Michel Platini were been suspended for eight years from all football-related activities following an ethics investigation.

(BBC Sport)

Timberwolves 100, Nets 85 Karl-Anthony Towns had 24 points and 10 rebounds in the building where he was taken with the No. 1 pick in the June draft, and Minnesota beat Brooklyn.

Gorgui Dieng added 20 points and 10 boards to lead a strong bench unit that blew the game open in the fourth quarter.

Andrew Wiggins scored 16 points, and Ricky Rubio had 15 assists.

Brook Lopez had 20 points, 12 rebounds and five assists for the Nets.

Hawks 103, Magic 100 Kyle Korver scored 13 of his 19 points in the fourth quarter and Atlanta rallied to beat Orlando.

Korver had four 3-pointers in the final period and six overall. Mike Scott added 15 points, and Al Horford and Jeff Teague scored 14 apiece in Atlanta’s third straight victory.

The Magic had the ball and a chance to tie with 7.3 seconds remaining, but the Hawks smothered an inbounds pass to Evan Fournier. The ball eventually found its way to Nik Vucevic, but he failed

to get off a shot. Vucevic led Orlando with 20 points and 11 rebounds.

Kings 104, Raptors 94 Rajon Rondo had 19 points and 13 assists, Rudy Gay scored 19 points against his former team and Sacramento beat Toronto to end a four-game road losing streak.

Omri Casspi added 15 points and 11 rebounds for the Kings.

DeMar DeRozan had 28 points for the Raptors.

Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry was ejected for consecutive technical fouls after arguing with referee Scott Wall with 7:22 left in the third quarter.

Pelicans 130, Nuggets 125 Anthony Davis left after the first quarter with an illness only to return in the fourth and finish with 27 points, lifting New Orleans past Denver.

Davis had a dominating first quarter, scoring 19 points before leaving after feeling sick. He returned early in the fourth and sparked the Pelicans.

Tyreke Evans and Jrue Holiday each added 21 points for New Orleans. Will Barton had 32 points and 10 rebounds for Denver.

Bucks 101, Suns 95 Khris Middleton scored 11 of his 26 points in the fourth quarter and Greg Monroe hit a spinning, go-ahead layup with 20.6 seconds left to lift Milwaukee past Phoenix.

Bucks coach Jason Kidd said after the game that he will be taking an indefinite leave to have hip surgery. Assistant Joe Prunty will direct the team in his absence.

Eric Bledsoe had his potential tying layup blocked by Michael Carter-Williams with 7.9 seconds left, and Middleton hit four free throws in the final 5 seconds.

Carter-Williams had 20 points, nine rebounds and six assists. Bledsoe and T.J. Warren led the Suns with 18 points each.

(Cape Breton Post)

sports

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21

Casual ‘not a good look’ for Windies – Simmons W

est Indies coach Phil Simmons has admitted that a dropped catch from fast bowler Jerome Taylor was ‘not a good look’ as the regional team played to a draw against a Victorian Invitational XI. The fielder missed out on dismissing batsman Jake Hancock after being caught leaning on a fence at fine leg and only reacted when teammates shouted to alert him to the opportunity.

The ball bounced over the rope and Hancock got a lucky break on the way to scoring 80. The home side made 3-169 in reply to the Windies’ 7-303 declared in

Phil Simmons

a rain-shortened, two-day match.

“It can’t be a good look,” Simmons, who didn’t see

the actual incident but condemned the attitude, said.

“It’s a team trying to gain that sort of respect, so things like that, we have to make sure we cut them out.”

Hancock, on the other hand, was not as quick to complain.

“I definitely got away with one there,” said Hancock.

“He wasn’t even on the field, was he?”

After a demoralsing loss to the Australians in the first Test, the West Indies will face the hosts in the second Test at Melbourne on Boxing Day (Christmas Day Caribbean time). (Digicel

Sportsmax)

Gayle, 1st T20 player to 600 sixes W

est Indies star batsman Chris Gayle became the first player to hit 600 sixes and 600 fours in Twenty20 cricket.

The batsman achieved the feat during the Melbourne Renegades win over the Brisbane Heat in Australia’s Big Bash League on the weekend.

Gayle hit two sixes in a knock, which also included a couple of fours as the Renegades beat the Heat on Saturday.

Gayle is far ahead in terms of the most sixes with the next best be-

Chris Gayle flosses his golden bat on his way to his 600th six while playing for the Melbourne Renegades

ing that of fellow West

Indian all-rounder Kieron

Pollard, who has hit 388 sixes.

Brendon McCullum is in third spot with 290 strikes over the fence.

The big Jamaican’s tally of fours moved him to 653, he, however, still trails Australian star Brad Hodge, who leads the way with 664 boundaries to his credit.

The 36-year-old West Indian is the most soughtafter T20 player in the world. Gayle also holds the record for most centuries, 16, and most half-centuries, 53. (Digicel Sportsmax)

Pietersen, Gayle among top picks in PSL draft

WANTED SALESGIRLS WITH EXPERIENCE PLEASE BRING WRITTEN APPLICATION AND CV TO TRISTAR ELECTRICAL BRASSONIC Bldg.

(MAIN ENTRANCE 42 WATER st. G/ Town. 231-7101 Chris Gayle

Kevin Pietersen

ormer England batsman Kevin Pietersen was selected in the player draft for the inaugural Pakistan Super League.

Pietersen, 35, was the first Platinum Pick for Quetta Gladiators, while England all-rounder Chris Jordan was chosen by Peshawar Zalmi.

Pakistan bowler Mohammad Amir, back from a five-year ban for spot-fixing, will play for Karachi Kings alongside England batsman James Vince.

The tournament will take place in February in Dubai and Sharjah.

Luke Wright was also selected by Quetta, while fellow England all-rounder Ravi Bopara features in Karachi’s squad.

West Indies opener Chris Gayle and Australia all-rounder Shane Watson were the first picks for Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad United respectively.

Now a freelance Twenty20 specialist, Pietersen struck successive centuries as he helped his Dolphins franchise reach the final of the Ram Slam, South Africa’s domestic T20 competition, this month.

Currently playing in the

F

Australian Big Bash, he hit 76 from 42 balls for Melbourne Stars on Saturday.

Teams finished with nine players after day one of the draft in Lahore.

They will complete their squads - of between 16 and 20 players when they select from the Silver and Emerging categories on the second day.

Pakistan Super League squads Peshawar Zalmi: Shahid Afridi, Wahab Riaz, Darren Sammy, Kamran Akmal, Mohammad Hafeez, Chris Jordan, Tamim Iqbal, Junaid Khan, James Allenby.

Karachi Kings: Shoaib Malik, Shakib Al Hasan, Sohail Tanvir, Imad Wasim, Ravi Bopara, Lendl Simmons, Mohammad Amir, Bilawal Bhatti, James Vince.

Islamabad United: Shane Watson, Andre Russell, Misbah-ulHaq, Samuel Badree, Mohammad Irfan, Brad Haddin, Sharjeel Khan, Mohammad Sami, Khalid Latif.

Quetta Gladiators: Kevin Pietersen, Sarfraz Ahmed, Ahmed Shehzad, Anwar Ali, Jason Holder, Luke Wright, Zulfiqar Babar, Umar Gul, Elton Chigumbura.

Lahore Qalandars: Chris Gayle, Dwayne Bravo, Umar Akmal, Mohammad Rizwan, Yasir Shah, Sohaib Maqsood, Mustifzur Rehman, Kevon Cooper, Cameron Delport. (BBC Sport)

22 Metro renews support for Net Rockers edge past Hi KMTC race meet guyanatimesGY.com

tuesday, december 22, 2015

UDFA GT Beer KO Football Competition

KMTC President, Justice Cecil Kennard, receives Metro’s sponsorship package from officials of the company on Monday (Marceano Narine photo)

I

n a demonstration of its commitment to the development of horse

racing in Guyana, Metro Office and Computer Supplies on Monday

presented its sponsorship cheque to organisers of this weekend’s an-

nual Boxing Day horse race meet, staged by the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club (KMTC).

At a simple ceremony at the company’s main location on Quamina Street, officials were on hand to present the top prize and the fourth placed cash incentive of $1 million and $125,000 respectively for the feature C and Lower race.

That race is expected to feature top horses like Plum Plum, who won Sunday’s Guyana Cup Rematch; Jack In My Style; Split Fire; California Strike; Run Nana Run and Lady Budapest among others.

According to KMTC President, retired Justice Cecil Kennard, Metro Office and Computer Supplies has been onboard with the Boxing Day meet for over two decades, but has been sponsoring the cash prizes for the main race for about a decade now.

Kennard expressed gratitude to the company for the support, especially its President, Ron Ramnarine. It is understood that Ramnarine has provided the sponsorship in the name of his late father, Deo Kharag.

The seven-race card, which is slated to bring the curtains down on the 2015 season, will be held at the KMTC’s track at Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne, Berbice.

It will be headlined by the C and Lower race, which will run for one mile and carry a top prize of $1 million.

The second- to fourthplace finishers will receive $500,000, $250,000 and $125,000 respectively.

The main supporting six-furlong race will be the E and Lower, which will see the top horse and jockey carting off $500,000 and the runner-up collecting half that amount.

The one-mile race for G1 and Lower and Three and Four-year maidens has a winning purse of $300,000, while the H1 and Lower six-furlong showdown has $250,000 set aside for the champion.

Other races carded for the day include the J1 and Lower and Two-year-old Guyana bred, with a winning purse of $180,000, while the J3 and Lower and the K1 and Lower have a top prize of $140,000 and $120,000 respectively.

The day’s activities will be held in strict adherence to the rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority.

Kennard also highlighted that vehicles transporting animals to the venue on race day will be exempt from paying the Berbice River Bridge toll. (aramzan@guyanatimesgy. com)

Stars 4-2 on penalties

– Panthers roar against Botafago 4-0

T

he Net Rockers defeated Hi Stars 4-2 on penalties after the encounter ended 1-1 after extra time on Sunday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground as action in the Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA) GT Beer Knockout Football championship continued.

Despite a wet outfield and soggy conditions after early afternoon showers, the fair-sized crowd was not deterred from turning up to watch two exciting games.

Net Rockers started well when in the 21st minute left winger Culrick Beckles motored past Hi Stars’ defenders and collected the ball within the six-yard box from which he scored for a 1-0 lead.

alty kicks and there the Rockers outscored the Stars 4-2.

The second match of the evening between Amelia’s Ward Panthers and Botafago was a mismatch as Panthers easily won 4-nil.

Momentum soon swung in favour of the Panthers who knocked in their first goal in the 31st minute through Kevin Plowell by virtue of a penalty. This came after John Handel was fouled in the six-yard box.

Ray Bobbsemple then collected a through ball from Jevon Babb off which he scored just before the halftime whistle, followed by Marlon Simon in the 74th minute with a splendid dive from about 25 yards out which he headed into the left side.

The scorers of Amelia’s Ward Panthers’ goals from left: Jevon Babb, Marlon Simon, Ray Bobbsemple and Kevin Plowell

The first half would end with an unchanged scoreline.

However, 10 minutes into the second half, the equaliser was found off a strike by Jermain Adams.

With the scores level at 1-1, the two sides tried desperately but unsuccessfully to gain the initiative.

After the end of regulation time, periods of extra time failed to break the deadlock. This forced the game to go to pen-

In the 82nd minute, Babb would add his name to the scoresheet when he put a cross from Bobbsemple into the net from the left side of goal to make it 4-0.

The Amelia’s Ward Panthers are to face reigning champions Winners Connection in the first game at 18:15h on Sunday, while the second game will bring together Net Rockers against Milerock at 20:15h.

Stag Super XVI Football

Games called due to lighting issues

T

he recent game between Soesdyke Falcons and Pouderoyen was called off after 22 minutes of play at the Grove Ground on Sunday.

The only action in the game saw Andy Hicken of the Falcons scoring in the 22nd minute.

In addition to the issues that affected the lighting, a person(s) who remains unknown broke into the refer-

ees’ dresser room and stole items.

The second game of the night between Golden Grove and Grove Hi Tech was also abandoned. Action continues on December 23 when Kuru Kuru Warriors go up against Mahaica in the first game from 18:00h, then Agricola play Den Amstel from 20:00h at the Den Amstel Ground.

guyanatimesGY.com

tuesday, december 22, 2015

23

GBA recognises top players GFA/Banks Beer KO Cup of Woodpecker tournament Santos hammer Black Pearl 5-1

– Riddim Squad ease past Houston Stars

S

The young players pose with their trophies

T

he Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) last weekend recognised the efforts of the top players of the annual Woodpecker Products Christmas Singles tournament, which was held last week at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The prizegiving ceremony was held at the Guyana Olympic Association headquarters on High Street on Saturday where officials of the GBA and representatives of the Woodpecker Products were on hand to interact with the various category champions.

Organised by the GBA, the competition attracted players at the Under-11, Under-13 and Under-15 levels, competing in both the Boys’ and Girls’ categories.

In the Under-11 Boys’ fi-

nal, Omar Samad defeated George Ramlall 21-18, 21-8, while in the Under-11 Girls’ final, Gabriella Pertab got the better of Emily Choo-AFat 21-3, 21-11.

Gianni Carpenter outplayed Jadon Oudit 21-10, 21-2 in the Boys’ Under-13 final, while on the distaff side, Siya Persaud beat Sudarshani Sooknarine 216, 21-4.

The Under-15 Boys’ final was won by Akili Haynes, who fought hard against Tyrese Jeffrey, winning 21-18, 21-19, while seasoned campaigner Priyanna Ramdhani made light work of Priyanka Shivnauth 21-5, 21-7 in the Under-15 Girls’ championship game.

Below are the summarised scores from the other games played.

Under-11 Boys’ semifinals: Omar Samad defeated John Wang 25-23, 16-21, 21-16; and George Ramlall defeated Ethan Biachini 21-15, 21-11. Under-11 Girls’ semi-finals: Emily Choo-A-Fat defeated Amelia Balram: 21-9, 21-10.

Under-13 Girls’ quarterfinals: Angelie Balram defeated Reanna Persaud 2110, 21-14; and Sudarshani Sooknarine defeated Jayde DaSilva 21-8, 21-9.

Under-13 Girls’ semi-finals: Siya Persaud defeated Angelie Balram 21-4, 21-5; and Sudarshani Sooknarine defeated Sarah Samad 2115, 21-12. Under-15 Boys semi-finals: Tyrese Jeffrey defeated Isaac Mallampati 21-10, 21-5; and Akili Haynes defeated Ransell Ramsaroop 21-7, 21-12.

Guyana Jaguars resume training for 50-over competition Cricket Board (WICB). After the first half of the season, the Jaguars have 85 points, 22 points ahead of closest rivals Barbados Pride, on 63.

In fact, they have not lost their last 12 games in the PCL, winning 11 and drawing one.

They will be hoping to carry the four-day form into the shorter version of the game and win a 50-over competition after 10 years.

Despite their red ball success, in recent times, Guyana have struggled with the

Christopher Barnwell

T

he Guyana Jaguars cricket team have resumed training for the Nagico 50-over competition, which is slated to be held in Trinidad and Tobago and St Kitts and Nevis from January 7 to 24.

The Jaguars were engaged in practice on Monday at Georgetown Cricket Club, with their break for the Christmas season starting immediately after. The team were recently hailed by Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) President Drubahadur for their exceptional performances in the current Professional Cricket League (PCL) organised by the West Indies

Veerasammy Permaul

white ball, having last won a 50-over tourney during the 2005-2006 season when they defeated Barbados by seven

runs under the Duckworth/ Lewis method.

Guyana have won seven regional 50-over titles thus far. They will play their first game on January 7 against the Windward Islands at the Congree Sports Club Ground, Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis. They are grouped with the Windward Islands, Leeward Islands and Jamaica.

The Jaguars will be dependent on players such as Leon Johnson, Christopher Barnwell, and Assad Fudadin among others to pull their weight with the bat.

The recent Local Cricket franchise tournament was to some extent a success and allowed some upcoming talents to showcase their skills in a bid to make the team.

The current squad for the four-day team are where changes are expected to be made. The current squad: Assad Fudadin; Rajendra Chandrika; Leon Johnson (Captain); Vishaul Singh (Vice Captain); Shivnarine Chanderpaul; Christopher Barnwell; Raymon Reifer; Anthony Bramble; Steven Jacobs; Gudakesh Motie; Shimron Hetmyer; Keon Joseph; Ronsford Beaton; Jevon Searles; Paul Wintz and Tagnarine Chanderpaul.

antos FC displayed some brilliant football skills to easily defeat Black Pearl when the Georgetown Football Association (GFA)/ Banks Beer Cup continued on Sunday evening at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) Ground.

While the game started a bit tentatively, all nerves were erased for Santos when Dwayne Mclennon scored in the 15th minute and despite Glendon Gilkes’ equaliser in the 26th minute for Black Pearl, the confidence and play of Santos continually grew as Mclennon struck again for a double in the 38th minute to end a competitive first half.

It was all Santos in the second half as the squad scored three goals, from

Amos Ramsey

three different players.

Josh Parvantan scored the opening goal of the second half with a shot in the 60th minute, while Orin

Yarde notched his first goal in the 74th minute. Ryan Hackett added insult to injury with a goal in the 77th minute.

Game two of the night saw Riddim Squad notching a comfortable 3-1 victory over Houston Stars.

Seon Hope wasted little time in scoring the game’s first goal which came in the 17th minute of the match ,while Teon Jones strengthened the lead for Riddim Squad with a goal in the 44th minute to make the score 2-0.

Kevin Richards pulled back a goal for Houston with a shot in the 76th minute only to see Amos Ramsey seal the deal for Riddim Squad in the 83rd minute to end the night’s action.

GABA 2015 League Championships

Sonics, Knights pull off wins

T

he Pepsi Sonics played well to come out with a 65-53 win over the Republic Bank Nets when Division Two action continued in the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) 2015 League Championships on Sunday evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

Sonics played at a high tempo to top the Nets and were led by Trevor Smith who dropped 21 points in the win.

National point guard Jason Squires contributed 12 points, while Earl O’Neil had 14 points in the

Jason Squires

comfortable win. Mortimer Williams was the highest scorer for the Nets as he relentlessly attacked the basket for 16 points.

In the second Division

Two game of the evening, the Knights topped the Patriots 60-55 as Owan Walton topped all scorers with 27 points to help Knights to the close win.

Kester Gomes and Lloyd Bart also contributed 10 points apiece in the win. Sheland Legall and Ashton Adams scored 14 and 13 points respectively in the loss for the Patriots.

Meanwhile in Under-23 action, the Ravens put a whopping on the Sonics with 73-41 drubbing.

Sebastian Luke was the high point man in the game for the Ravens with 15 points.

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

tuesday, december 22, 2015

GFA/Banks Beer KO Cup

Santos hammer Black Pearl 5-1 Pg 23

Action during the night’s play

Guyana Jaguars resume training Blatter, Platini banned by for 50-over competition FIFA for 8 years

Pg 19

Pg 23

The Guyana squad during a practice session for the 50-over tournament

Michel Platini (left) and Sepp Blatter share a moment

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