Guyana Times

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

Issue No. 2716

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

PRICE

Controversial NICIL audits

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Conspiracy to defame Brassington exposed!

P9 PPP lobbying for int’l support for electoral reforms

Page 3

− Goolsarran says KN lied about siphoned off funds

1 killed, several Man dies after injured car plunges in Sparendaam into trench crash-up Enmore’s NY Association brings Christmas cheer to hundreds Page 7

− says GECOM’s system “flawed”

Page 18

Berbice butcher P9 severs thief’s hand

Page 13

P10 Badal involved in $billions in questionable transactions − no credibility to question NICIL - analyst

P18 Flood advisory out for Christmas weekend

F Division HQ relocated to Bartica P18

Santa Claus is flanked by scores of jubilant children at Tuesday’s Enmore Association of New York (EANY) Children’s Christmas party in Enmore, ECD

TGI wants GPL’s CEO Residents GPSU affected berates Govt sent on by smoke over nonleave Eccles landfill site

$50,000 tax-free bonus Page 7

Page 11

− roasts Govt over handling of allegations

Page 12

consultation

Indigenous producers receive P17 quality assurance training at IAST labs

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BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, December 23 – 14:30h-16:00h and Thursday, December 24 – 14:30h-16:00h The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, December 23 – 14:30h-16:00h and Thursday, December 24 – 15:15h-16:45h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Weather: Thundery to heavy rain showers can be expected throughout the day, with cloudy skies in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees Celsius and 27 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly between 3.57 metres and 5.8 metres per second.

High Tide: 14:54h reaching a maximum height of 2.67 metres.

Low Tide: 08:26h and 20:58h reaching minimum heights of 0.69 metre and 0.52 metre respectively.

Controversial NICIL audits

Conspiracy to defame Brassington exposed!

– Goolsarran says KN lied about siphoned off funds

T

he conspiracy to defame Executive Director of National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) has been further exposed through the forensic audit into the entity which was conducted by former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran.

During a Press Conference hosted by Brassington Monday, Kaieteur News Reporter Kiana Wilberg claimed Goolsarran was ‘leaking’ information on the audit to the tabloid-like publication Asking questions specifically to an article published by the Kaieteur News on December 15, captioned “Construction of Marriott Hotel… Brassington hid US$5M in secret account”, Wilberg blurted out “the auditor spoke with Kaieteur News.”

It is important to note that government still to officially make public the findings of the audit report.

It was also reported that Goolsarran is being accused of colluding with Kaieteur News Publisher Glenn Lall in an effort to “expose” Brassington, who has dragged Lall and his close friend Toney Yassin over an outstanding US$2 million payment on the sale of Guyana Stores Limited, according to a close associate of Lall.

Goolsarran’s action is described as “extremely unprofessional” and a breach of confidentiality.

However, when contacted

by Guyana Times Goolsarran denied speaking with Kaieteur News about any matter relating to the audit and said the newspaper lied as there was never any such discussion about “secret account” with Wilberg or anyone from Kaieteur News.

“That is not true because I have never mentioned a secret bank account, I mention they received $1 billion from GNCB, the money wasn’t used and it was still in the accounts of NICIL, and I raised the question why is it that after two years the money was still sitting in the accounts of NICIL. I have no control over that (newspaper report) and I don’t agree because that’s not what I said, I don’t agree it should have been written that way,” Goolsarran said.

Goolsarran said in his report: ”The schedule provided

by NICIL includes an amount of $1 billion received in 2012 from the Guyana National Cooperative Bank for the Marriott Hotel. It also shows that the full amount was expended while at the same time the amount is shown as “outstanding funds”. In addition, NICIL did not provide a schedule of payments in relation to this amount. It is therefore not clear whether

Executive Director NICIL Winston Brassington

the amount of $1 billion was indeed paid over to NICIL, and whether any expenditure was incurred.”

NICLIL in response stated: “The amount of $1B was previously included in Creditors in NICIL financials. The entire amount has been returned to GNCB and not expended on the Marriott Project.”

Further Goolsarran said while he has been speaking with reporters on a range of matters, he never had any discussion with journalists, including Wilberg on the forensic audit, which has been in the hands of the government since October 26, when it was copied to Chairman of NICIL Dr Morris Odle.

He said to leak information on the audit or another report he is contracted to do will bring into question his integrity and professionalism.

The former auditor general, while confirming he indeed has a relationship with Lall, denied being a part of any “vendetta” against NICIL or Brassington “What reason I have to do that, I don’t know Toney Yassin. Glen Lall, because he is a newspaper editor, I have the same relationship with Glen Lall as with the

Stabroek News,” Goolsarran stated.

Meanwhile, he noted that NICIL received a draft report and detailed response was submitted to him, following which he reworked the report and submitted it as a final copy to the Finance Minister and Chairman of NICIL Dr Odle.

There has been public outcry after the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC) hand-picked two of the forensic auditors, Goolsarran and Christopher Ram, staunch supporters of the coalition.

Both Goolsarran and Ram have openly accused the former People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) admin-

Former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran

istration of condoning widespread corruption, even without providing any evidence.

It is this preconceived position that many have said will influence Goolsarran’s and Ram’s audit reports.

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

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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

Thoughts on 2015

T

he year 2015 is rapidly coming to a close, and most of us in our reflections would accept that it has been one fraught with many challenges as well as some positive developments. To begin with, the elections last May saw a change in Government and to date, the political environment is still somewhat unsettled. In addition to a legal challenge of the elections results, the two main political groups, the APNU/ AFC and the PPP/C, have still not managed to work out a framework that would see the parties engaging in meaningful political dialogue, more specifically as it relates to addressing contentious issues.

In terms of the parliamentary agenda, not much has been accomplished. More recently, the Government has been accused of rushing bills though the Parliament. In any democratic society, one expects the Government to consult with the citizenry on such issues, especially those aspects of the population that will be affected one way or another.

As it relates to the country’s economic performance for the year so far, the economy is yet to pick up real pace in spite of the Government giving some assurance that there will be a turn-around. According to the Mid-Year Report, the economy declined some 2.5 per cent in the first half of this year when compared to the same period in 2014 and no doubt this trend will continue to the end of the year. Prices have further declined for Guyana’s main exports such as rice, sugar, bauxite, gold and timber, and local businesses are complaining that sales have decreased drastically.

The nation is anxiously waiting to see what action the Government will take in terms of the future of the sugar industry.

A CoI was launched and the findings of the Inquiry are yet to be made public. No Guyanese wants to see the industry fail as thousands of workers depend on it for their daily living.

Similarly, the rice industry is facing very tough times. For example, farmers are not getting the desired price for their rice, Guyana has lost the profitable Venezuelan market and to date, barring a few promises, the Government has not been able to find a suitable replacement. In the new year, it is hoped that the Administration would offer more support to rice farmers and millers so that the industry remains profitable.

There are also major development projects initiated by the PPP which are yet to take off due to partisan politics. These projects, such as the Hydro Power, airport expansion, housing development, Specialty Hospital and many others, would have seen more money pumping into the economy, more jobs created and a trickledown effect.

Importantly too is that for 2015, barring a few minor investments, we have not seen any major investor coming here.

We urge the Government to actively seek new investors in 2016, including those from the Diaspora. More investments would result in more jobs being created for our citizens; income will be generated; entrepreneurs, both large and small, will be able to find new markets for their products and services; and citizens will enjoy the benefits of competition.

In terms of the social sector, the PPP/C Administration has left a good track record which the APNU/AFC could build on.

For example, some areas have seen tremendous improvements over the years, most notably, the housing, health and education sectors. The Administration must place more focus on improving and expanding tertiary education, completing the Specialty Hospital Project, and exploring renewable energy options.

Crime and security still remain a serious issue which should continue to be placed high on the national agenda. Even though there has been notable progress in some areas of law enforcement, there are still a high number of robberies and killings taking place almost daily and the Police seem unable to address them frontally.

One cannot dispute the fact that we still face many challenges, both at the individual and the national levels.

For example, there should be renewed efforts in generating wealth and creating more job opportunities for every citizen, especially those who are skilled and qualified. In doing so, more investments and productive activities should be encouraged which will result in more opportunities being available. We are convinced that this country has a bright future ahead. In 2016, our leaders must seriously begin to look beyond partisan politics and work together in the nation’s interest.

Digicel on Tuesday hosted a grand party for children in the community of Kingston, Georgetown, in the parking lot of the Nursing School’s Annex in the area. The eager young men and women of all ages gathered in the area to receive goodies from Santa Claus

Presidential Pardons

Dear Editor, In seven months, President David Granger has pardoned 72 convicted criminals. In 12 years as President, Bharat Jagdeo pardoned one. This individual was not convicted but had spent nearly five years on remand.

In three years, President Donald Ramotar pardoned one convicted of murder.

President Ramotar was roundly criticised for so doing. He subsequently admitted that were he apprised of certain facts, he may not have granted the pardon.

In President Granger’s case, there are marked differences. The only information with which the public is fed by the President himself is that “the persons are convicted of non-violent crimes… they should be in schools and not prison … and they should be at home for Christmas with their family”. Not a word of consultation; not with the victims; not with the judiciary; not with civil society; not with a single member of the public. The President promises that this will be an ongoing exercise. Yet, in his manifesto, he promised accountable and consultative governance and committed his government to Article 13 of the Constitution.

The power to grant par-

dons to persons convicted of criminal offences owes its genesis to the Royal Prerogative of Mercy. It was first codified in the Constitution of the United States and, later on in other Constitutions.

It is reflected in Article 188 of the Guyana Constitution. The layman may argue that the exercise of a prerogative power requires no consultation and it is not reviewable by the Court and therefore, it is absolute. However, any first year public law student knows that any power, regardless of how untrammelled and absolute it may appear, ex facie, is circumscribed by law and the Court will strike down the exercise of such power if it is done unreasonably, capriciously, discriminatorily, in violation of the rules of natural justice, in bad faith and procedurally improperly.

Lord Denning in his text, The Discipline of Law at page 103, writes: “the prerogative is a discretionary power exercisable by the executive government for the public good… the law does not interfere with the proper exercise of the discretion by the executive: but it sets limits… and it can intervene if the discretion is exercised improperly or mistakenly. That is a fundamental principle of our Constitution… if that

discretionary power be abused to the public detriment such prerogative is exerted in an unconstitutional manner…”

I submit that the exercise of the Presidential Power of Pardon are subject to the same principles adumbrated by Lord Denning. After all, it is from thence that we have inherited it. More particularly, Article 188 (2) of the Constitution mandates a procedure to be followed by the President when he exercises this power. It provides: “… the powers of the President under the preceding paragraph [that is where the power to pardon is conferred] shall be exercised by him or her after consultation with such Minister as may from time to time be designated by him or her”.

No one knows with which Minister the President consulted in satisfaction of this requirement. More significantly, if this power is to be exercised for the “public good”, is it proper for the President to solely determine what is the “public good” with no input from the public? It cannot be.

Can pardoning criminals inure to the “public good” in a society where crime is wreaking havoc?

I think not, but the public should have a say.

Billions of tax dollars

are spent annually to finance the criminal justice system.

Our law enforcement officers risk their lives in arresting persons suspected of committing crimes.

Victims and witnesses dedicate their time and endure grave trauma in facing these alleged perpetrators in the Courts in order to give evidence.

Prosecutors toil against great odds to accumulate and present credible evidence.

Judicial Officers spend thousands of man hours tediously adducing evidence.

If and only if, the legal requirements are met, a conviction follows.

When all of this is accomplished, our President waves his presidential rod and sets them free. He does this not, occasionally, but apparently, as a matter of policy at periodic intervals. He acts in accordance with no known principles. He follows no recognized procedure. But he overturns decisions of the Judiciary rendered in accordance with the law of the land.

This must be the antithesis of democratic and accountable government.

Sincerely, Mohabir Anil Nandlall MP Attorney-at-Law

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Unwarranted attacks on Winston Brassington

Dear Editor, I have seen the sustained attacks on Winston Brassington in certain sections of the media and from the supporters/operators of the APNU/AFC regime for his work as Head of NICIL. From the beginning, the regime began a witch-hunt several persons who were perceived to be supporters of the former PPP/C administration and those who worked dedicatedly during its tenure.

The ‘forensic’ audits were

designed as a tool to harass and denigrate persons who worked with the PPP/C government to build our country.

Winston Brassington has been attacked and demonised, and has not even been given the chance to defend himself.

The audit conducted on the operations of the Marriott Hotel by Anand Goolsarran was most unprofessional and should engage the attention of the professional bodies of

accountants in Guyana. This was exposed thoroughly at a NICIL press conference.

Even though Mr Brassington provided all the explanations in his preliminary report, the responses were mainly ignored in a final report that was not sent to NICIL. Clearly, the APNU/AFC operatives are not interested in the truth; they are not interested in transparency and natural justice.

What they want is to cre-

ate trumped-up charges and to attack the integrity of persons who clearly acted professionally in the discharge of their duties.

The real problem is that they shouted so much about corruption at NICIL and they are now unable to prove any of their charges.

They are fast losing credibility and their vindictive nature is being exposed for all to see.

This is the reason why they have descended into

Unlabelled powder milk Dear Editor, The Government Analyst - Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) wishes to advise all consumers against the purchase of Powdered Milk in unlabeled, transparent plastic bags and to advise retailers to discontinue the practice of repackaging milk without being in possession of a Permit to Repackage.

The sale of milk powder in this manner is in breach of the Food and Drug Act 1971 and the Food and Drug Regulation 1977 and any person who sells Powdered Milk in unlabeled, transparent plastic bags are Guilty of an Offence.

According to Part II Section seven and eight of the Food and Drug Act Chapter 34:03 and Part II Regulation 18 (1) of the Food and Drug Regulation: Milk must be

properly labelled and when permitted be repackaged with supervision and under sanitary conditions.

Consumers are advised against the purchase of powdered milk in plain unlabeled plastic bags for the following reasons: 1. Unlabeled bags cannot represent the true identity of the re-packager or that of the milk (brand) 2. Milk placed in clear transparent bags results in a loss of nutritional value of the Milk 3. The milk is oftentimes repackaged under insanitary conditions by unlicensed repackagers 4. Milk sold in this manner may be subjected to adulteration (mixing) 5. The true weight of the milk cannot be determined or

reflected on a clear transparent bag Consumers are also reminded that the standard for various types of Milk as found in Part IV Division 5 Regulation 3, 12, 13, 14 and 16 (Dairy Products) of the Food and Drug Regulation are as follows: 1. Milk or Whole Milk shall contain no less than 3.0 per cent milk fat, 8.5 per cent milk solids 2. Flavoured Milk shall contain no less than 2.5 per cent milk fat, 8.5 per cent milk solids 3. Condensed or Sweetened Condensed Milk shall contain no less than 8.0 per cent milk fat , 28.0 per cent milk solid 4. Evaporated Milk shall contain no less than 7.5 per cent milk fat , 25.0 per cent milk solids

5. Milk Powder shall contain no less than 26.0 per cent milk fat, 95.0 per cent milk solid.

Any milk being traded and/or sold on our local market in any of the above stated categories and the label does not reflect the prescribed standard as indicative of the name, will be seized and confiscated.

Consumers are asked to report this practice to the Government Analyst – Food and Drug Department (Telephone # 222-8859) or any Environmental or Municipal Health Officer in the respective Regions or Towns for their own interest and safety.

Sincerely yours Marlan Cole Director, Food and Drug Department

mudslinging and slander.

This behaviour of deliberately using the media to slander and libel people and seemingly to even scores is also an abuse of Freedom of the Press. It undermines democracy and harms our country.

Many honest and talented Guyanese who are not members of the APNU or AFC will think twice before offering their services,

knowing that they could be subjected to such defamation and abuse by unscrupulous persons in the regime and the media operatives who support them.

I, therefore, call on the regime to cease the witchhunts and instead focus more on building the nation.

Sincerely, Donald Ramotar Former President

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Foundation

Christmas – a time for giving D

Set as pull quote at top r Seuss once wrote: “What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store? What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more?” The Grinch had to learn the lesson the hard way, but at this time of year, are we guilty of the same?

Christmas is a time for giving – the endless Christmas lists are testament to that.

Undoubtedly, people think of their families at this time of year. There’s nothing quite like seeing your child smile when they see the Christmas tree lit up.

Or watching your dad fall asleep after one too many glasses of port. But, when the purse strings are already tight, charitable giving can often be the last thing to think of when there’s a party of 10 to feed on Christmas Day. So what about giving to those who really need it?

It is better to give than receive. And the stakes only get higher when we consider the themes of Christmas.

Christmas, you see, is far more than pretty presents under a tree.

Christmas is a celebration of love and joy and peace.

These are the greatest gifts we can ever give. But they are often the most difficult— especially if we have not received them from others.

Sometimes, it’s hard to see the wood through the Christmas trees.

Pass it on We all know, especially the parents among us, that Christmas usually means

that our houses become packed to the brim with new things. Whether toys, clothes, gadgets, food, things you don’t want or need but politely accept anyway…

But if you don’t need something, don’t hold on to it. Clear out your cupboards, get your coat on, and go and donate your things to local charity shops. You can free up some space in your home for your family’s presents, help a charity to raise more crucial funds and you may even help those who are facing Christmas on a

budgtheir too.

own

et

treat families

Give a little time If you are short on cash, but want to give back this year, then give some of your time. You may not have much in the bank to give, but your time could make someone’s Christmas.

The themes of Christmas should not be kept to ourselves. They can only be experienced when given away.

Love. Christmas is a sea-

son of love—a celebration of sacrificing what we have to show appreciation to those who mean the most. And while expressing love to another may be the most beautiful thing we can ever do, it can also be one of the most difficult—especially when those who should love us the most withhold it. Love anyway. True love is not selfseeking.

It keeps n o record of

wrongs.

And demands nothing in return.

Joy. This world never allows for perfect circumstances. And those who wait to find joy in them, never will. It is unwise to base our happiness fully on the actions of others. But that doesn’t mean we can’t bring a little joy into the life of another by the things that we do and the words that we say.

We can still be intentional about spreading joy wherever we go.

Peace. Family and personal relationships can cause conflict, turmoil, and stress at any time, but the tensions are often heightened during the holidays. Offer the gift of

peace this Christmas by taking the first step. One phone call or conversation may not make amends for years of hurt, but it is still the first step that needs to get taken by somebody.

Hope. Hope is one of the greatest assets in the entire world. It is one of the greatest treasures we can ever find for ourselves. And it is one of the greatest gifts we can ever give to somebody else. See the good in others.

Believe in their greatest potential. And encourage often.

Reconciliation. At its heart, Christmas is a story of reconciliation. A baby was born to offer forgiveness to those who need it most. In the same way, the holiday season creates opportunity to offer forgiveness and reconciliation to those who need it most in our lives. We can take the first step. Even before an apology has ever been uttered, we can lay the foundation for reconciliation that makes it possible.

Goodwill. People may desire to harm us, but wishing pain and suffering upon them in response only compounds the hurt. Harbouring resentment, ill will, and bitterness in our hearts allows their actions to control us indefinitely into the future.

On the other hand, wishing goodwill upon those who hurt us frees our soul. And it allows us to move on to better things.

These are the themes of Christmas and we should grant them freely.

Isn’t that what Christmas is all about?

(Adapted from reasondigital and becomingminimalist)

“I

Mama moment enjoy a hot peppermint tea with a peppermint stick—and leave everything else up to Hubs.” – Melissa Harris Tricks and treats “We spray the bottoms of our feet with fake snow and walk to the coffee table in the living room where the snacks await

Santa and company. We eat all but just a teeny nibble of everything and leave just a bit of milk.

Then we turn around and back-track to the fireplace. Once there, we take our shoes off in order to leave the tracks intact.

When the kids awake

on Christmas morning, they see the evidence and swear that Santa had paid them a visit. My kids love, love, love it, as do their dad and I!” – Tina Powell A Very Trekkie Christmas “We used to always watch a Star Trek movie on Christmas Eve. We purchased all the movies after they came out, and Christmas Eve was

a perfect time to watch them because we would all be home together, even after we grew up and moved out. We especially loved “Star Trek II”, “The Wrath of Khan” and “Star Trek IV” and “The Voyage Home”. Lots of great lines and quotes we would all be saying during the movie.”

– Alexis Amrhein Salerno Christmas Book Flood Book lovers will want to adopt this lovely holiday tradition, which melds literary and holiday pleasures into a single event.

Icelanders have a beautiful tradition of giving books to each other on Christmas Eve and then spending the night reading. This custom is so deeply ingrained in the culture that it is the reason for the Jolabokaflod, or “Christmas Book Flood,” when the majority of books in Iceland are sold between September and December in preparation for Christmas giving.

At this time of year, most households receive an annual free book catalogue of new publications called the Bokatidindi.

Icelanders pore over the new releases and choose which ones they want to buy, fuelling what Kristjan B Jonasson, President of the Iceland Publishers Association, describes as “the backbone of the publishing industry.” (Excerpt from parenting.com

and treehugger.com)

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1 killed, several injured in Sparendaam crash-up

A

mid-afternoon accident on the East Coast Demerara has left one woman dead and several others injured after the Route 44 minibus she was travelling in crashed into a parked truck before toppling and landing on its side.

The dead woman has been identified as Leslyn Mitchell, 45, of Third Street Craig, East Bank Demerara.

The accident occurred just after 14:00h at Sparendaam, ECD, outside Buddy’s Auto Sale, a short distance from the Sparendaam Police Station.

According to information reaching Guyana Times the minibus bearing registration BPP 6074, was travelling from Mahaica reportedly proceeding at a fast rate when control was lost and it slammed into one of the display trucks outside Buddy’s

The wrecked mini-bus

Auto Sale.

The “Pitbull bus” toppled once before flipping onto its right side with its 12 passengers, driver and conductor. This newspaper was told that when the bus was toppling, Mitchell was flung out.

Public spirited persons assisted with getting the bus back on its wheels. Several passengers were severely injured and transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where Mitchell, a security guard at Massy Security,

died while receiving treatment.

After receiving word of the accident, senior staff from Massy rushed to the hospital, and after waiting for some 30 minutes, their worst fears were confirmed.

Mitchell’s husband, Godfrey King, who is a security guard at the GPH but was off duty at the time, subsequently arrived at the hospital and positively identified the woman’s remains.

The man was too distraught to talk to reporters. This newspaper understands that the hospital used the woman’s phone to contact her daughter without knowing that the woman was King’s wife.

The driver of the minibus is claiming that a car, which was also involved in the accident, had jammed his wheel causing him to lose control.

However, there were no

$50,000 tax free bonus

GPSU berates govt over non-consultation

By Kristen Macklingam

T

he Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) though somewhat pleased that Government is giving a $50,000 tax-free bonus to public servants, is nonetheless disappointed with the arbitrary manner in which the administration handled the issue.

President of GPSU Patrick Yarde during a media briefing on Tuesday stated that while the commitment has been made to workers’ receiving this bo-

nus, this is yet to be fulfilled.

As such the GPSU is monitoring the “situation” and is hopeful all workers who are entitled to the bonus will receive it soon, Yard declared.

Despite this, the union is far from pleased with the approach government has taken in issuing the bonus to public servants without the involvement of GPSU in determining how much monies workers should receive.

“Let me say that I have mixed feelings about it. I

am very happy that it is paid particularly to the low level of workers. I am very pleased that they have had that relief... it was not the ideal way it was done, we are not pleased about that,” he stated.

According to Yarde, due to the fact that the APNU/ AFC administration is “dealing” with a unionised work force, it should have ensured that dialogue take place between the union and itself before pronouncing on the matter.

“You ought to, especially where representation is made, involve the union and that aspect of handling it we were not happy about… I am saying yes (the union should have been involved in negotiating the bonus) that if the government knew the approach for giving increase in further funds as a method of a bonus rather than as increases in salary which is permanent on one’s salary.

This bonus is one-off,” Yarde posited. turn to page 12

marks on the front of the car to support his claims.

On the other hand, an eyewitness told this newspaper the minibus was speeding along the Plaisance turn. He pointed out that the two vehicles collided and swerved about 80 feet away before coming to a halt.

“I just saw the bus coming with a speed and hit the truck, then it topple one time and fall on it side… He (driver) claimed another car on the outside hit him on one of the wheels and he lose control of the bus,” the man related.

However, the eyewitness stressed the bus was speed-

ing: “The guy was speeding too much, they drive reckless on the road. Look at the consequences when they crash, they don’t feel anything because he got up and walked but a lot of people in the bus got serious injuries.”

He noted that at least three persons were seriously injured and might have suffered broken limbs. Up to late Tuesday afternoon, the other occupants were still receiving treatment at the GPH. The bus driver was also at the medical institution and is expected to be released into police custody to assist with investigations.

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wednesday, december 23, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Friends cross-charged for assault A New Amsterdam man who reportedly assaulted his friend was on Tuesday placed on selfbail when he appeared before Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with assault.

Devon Thompson of New Amsterdam Squatting Area is accused of assaulting his friend, Christopher Tekaram on December 21 at Aranka Landing, Region 7 (CuyuniMazaruni).

The defendant denied the allegation, telling the court he was defending himself from Tekaram, who took up a sharp weapon called a

bronze knuckle with intent of causing him bodily harm.

He explained that on the day of the incident, he went to Tekaram’s shop to ‘lime’ and had a confrontation with a female at the shop. He said Tekaram intervened and an argument ensued.

He further stated that Tekaram pushed him multiples times and in return he did the same to Tekaram.

After the incident Thompson told the court, he left the scene and the following morning went to the police station to lodge a complaint where he was arrested for assaulting Tekaram.

Devon Thompson

Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones explained to the court that Thompson was arrested because Tekaram had reported the matter.

He added that as a result of Thompson hitting Tekaram to his face, he received minor lacerations, critical swelling and injuries to his eyes.

Tekaram, who was crosscharged for assaulting Thompson, was absent from court and an arrest warrant was issued for him by Magistrate McLennan.

The case will continue on January 22 at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court.

Rupununi teen fined for stealing laptop

A

Rupununi teenager was on Tuesday fined $7000 and giv-

en a mandated 40 hours of community service by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan

for stealing a laptop when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Dava Paul, 17, of Tabortindra, Central Rupununi pleaded guilty to the charge which stated that on December 17, he burglarised the home of Allister Charlie and stole a laptop valued $134,000.

Additionally, Paul was slapped with a possession of narcotics charge which stated that on December 18 after he was arrested in relation to the stolen laptop, Police Officers carried out a search on his person and three grams of cannabis were discovered in his right side pocket. He pleaded guilty to that charge also.

In court on Tuesday, Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones explained that the Virtual Complainant, Allister Charlie, returned home and discovered the computer missing. He said a report was made and the investigation led to the arrest of Paul, in whose possession

Dava Paul

the laptop was found.

Paul, in a plea of mitigation, told the court that the narcotics did not belong to him and he had bought it for someone else.

He was fined $50,000 for the possession charge with an alternative of eight weeks’ imprisonment.

Eyew tness Learned helplessness I …reinforced by Govt

t is not irony, but a sign of our national moral decay that even as the Government has launched what will be the most expensive and ostentatious “bash of bashes” to commemorate our 50th INDEPENDENCE Anniversary, it has simultaneously launched the most widespread “handout” programmes in the history of the republic.

All that these handouts will do – and are intended to do – is to deepen the learned helplessness that had been imposed by the colonial powers over the centuries. It didn’t matter what area of human endeavour it was – the Government and the planters knew what was “good for us”. Even down to the bare necessities of life. This policy of the British was not due to mere fortuity…it was how the Greeks then the Romans and then the European nobility had always kept their masses loyal.

God forbid that we might ask to rule ourselves!! That was a certain sign of dementia. So we ended up looking to the “big ones”’ to tell us who to vote for when the franchise arrived.

Sadly, the immediate post-Independence decades just reinforced the infantilisation and learned helplessness syndromes. Now is not the time or place to regurgitate the painful facts that are known to all and sundry. And after 23 years of rebuilding by the PPP – we arrive in a full circle: back with the handouts to infantilise us once again to look up to the “Big Man” to take care of us. This time, all we have to do is place our “X” next to his symbol.

Now, there are any number of complaints that can be made of the PPP – as for anyone or any group that doesn’t just sit on their haunches but plunges into action – but we cannot stifle our conscience and say they didn’t rebuild the economy.

And a lot of folks became independent. Cars give us independence to travel; phones allow us to communicate; supermarkets offer choice of foodstuffs; schools to educate ourselves. But to keep this independence in place…we must have jobs to allow us to hold our heads high.

Martin Carter presciently warned us “the mouth is muzzled by the hand that feeds it”. And in the present climate of mass handouts, it doesn’t really matter whether there is really “intent” or not to create the learned helplessness in the folks out there. The innate goodnaturedness of ordinary folks will lead them to censure themselves. And this is the most insidious effect being spawned today. This Government must be pressured to deliver on its promises to create jobs – and not offer handouts.

The first is the road to independence and freedom; the second is the road to serfdom.

…in businesses

We see the dependency syndrome exhibited in the business community of Guyana also.

The size of our state and its impact on the economy ensures that all businesses genuflect when the Government speaks. Didn’t we see certain Captains of Industry bowing and scraping as soon as the elections results were announced?

Our infantilised businesses refuse to take risks since they are always on the lookout for the “sure thing” from the Government. Those who are supposed to be the “guardians” of business probity succumb to suckling at the teats of the Government. Witness “Lalloo” Ram and GhoulSarran and the obscene “audits” they conducted at the behest of a megalomaniac muckraking newspaper publisher, Mook Lall.

In any country where the people have not been infantilised, they would cry out at the destruction of standards in every arena of national life. But it is sad that the business community isn’t condemning the present farce conducted by GhoulSarran on Brassington.

But who will bell the cat, when everyone wants some milk?

…in Santa

With all the bonuses and “top ups” doled out by the Govt this Christmas present (and Christmases past), even Santa might be forgiven for slackening a bit.

Don’t expect too much in those Christmas stockings!

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

news

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wednesday, december 23, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

PPP lobbying for int’l support for electoral reforms – says GECOM’s system “flawed”

later we will start lobbying international organisations, personalities so that they can come on our side… so we can present a case to them about what our struggle is all about.”

Late October, the PPP had protested in front of GECOM still calling for a recount of the votes of the May 2015 elections, where

By Kristen Macklingam

T

he People’s Progressive Party (PPP) along with a number of its supporters, took to the streets again on Tuesday to protest what it calls a ‘flawed’ electoral process being adopted and used by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

General Secretary of the PPP Clement Rohee told Guyana Times that this recent peaceful picketing was part of an ongoing exercise with regards to the Party’s protest against GECOM. The process took place in front of GECOM’s Kingston Head Office.

Speaking with the media Tuesday, Rohee said the party has constantly pointed out that GECOM’s machinery is “biased against free and fair elections. This has to do because of the kind of recruitment which lacks transparency of the staff generally

PPP executive and supporters during the protest on Tuesday

and particularly for polling day.”

He posited that many of the party’s members have over the past months reiterated the sentiments with respect to GECOM’s decision during the last General and Regional Elections of not allowing any recounting of votes to be done.

“The fact that they did not allow a recount of such narrow amount of votes,

that they did not even allow even one ballot box to be reopened and to be recounted, spells of a high degree of suspicion. So these protests that we are carrying out here is not only against GECOM per say but the administration and the supervision, the conduct of the elections under GECOM,” he stated.

Meanwhile, he assured that the PPP is a “Party for all seasons” and as such will

continue such protests regardless of what the atmosphere in the country is like; holiday season or not.

Rohee told this publication that protests like the one held Tuesday will continue to be held until its demands are met: “These protests are a manifestation of how convinced we are about the elections results being tampered with… sooner rather than

Berbice butcher severs thief’s hand

A

West Coast Berbice (WCB) man had his right hand severed during an attempted robbery in the home of a butcher.

Imtiaz Khan of Armadale Village, WCB, Region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice) said the thief was caught in

the act and was dealt one chop, causing his arm to be separated from his body.

The thief has since been identified as Anthony Gobind, 18, of Onderneeming, WCB. Reports are that late last week, Khan, who operates a butchery at his home,

was in his bedroom when he heard strange sounds in the lower flat of the building.

Upon investigating the butcher said he discovered an intruder was attempting to get in through a window which he had forced open.

“He had half of his body through the window, so I go

and collect the chopper and put one chop to he hand,” the butcher said.

Reports are that the hand fell to the floor.

According to Khan there were two other men in his yard at the time: turn to page 11

they believed the Party had been cheated, and for the swift resignation of GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally.

Surujbally had previously mentioned that he would not be going anywhere in face of calls by the Opposition PPP for his resignation. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy.

com)

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wednesday, december 23, 2015

News

Badal involved in $billions in questionable transactions ...no credibility to question NICIL – analyst

C

ontroversial businessman and owner of the Pegasus Hotel Robert Badal is called upon to provide answers to Guyanese on his many shady activities, including his move to illegally dilute shares in Guyana Stockfeeds Incorporated (GSI) during its privatisation some years ago.

This call came after Badal was quoted in sections of the media as calling for charges to be brought against senior

officials and for the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) to be closed down, following a forensic audit into the holding company.

Critics say Badal lacks the credibility to make such calls since he has “lots of skeletons in his closet”, especially for lying about paying dividends to stakeholders.

Badal was castigated by the Securities Council in a

Public Advisory for misleading Guyana Stockfeeds Inc shareholders by claiming, in its Interim Financial Report published for January – June 2013, that it had paid shareholders dividends amounting to $80,285,557, when in fact the company had not paid the dividends, prompting the Advisory by the Securities Council.

In 2008, NICIL successfully challenged in the High Court, Badal’s attempt to unlawfully reduce the Government of Guyana’s shares in Stockfeeds from 38 per cent to 7 per cent by means of an illegal Rights Issue giving him almost 80 per cent ownership of the company, under the guise of raising capital for the construction of a wharf.

The Court, in fact, ruled that the business affairs of Stockfeeds were being carried out oppressively, that the company had not complied with the Companies Act and the Rights Issue was illegal, null and void.

Another corrupt act of Badal was when he registered a Guyana Stockfeeds Inc in Trinidad and Tobago and each year GSI (Guyana) would purchase billions of dollars in goods and services from GSI (Trinidad and Tobago).

It is important to note that GSI (Trinidad & Tobago) was owned solely by Badal and was not a subsidiary of GSI (Guyana).

For example payments

were made from GSI (Guyana) to GSI (Trinidad & Tobago) for goods and services (that can be done by GSI [Guyana] directly) amounting to $909.9 million in 2010, $852 million in 2011, $771 million in 2012 and $1.3 billion in 2013.

To add GSI (Guyana) paid GSI (Trinidad and Tobago) “management fees” of $30 million per annum for the last five years and in 2013 paid for all operating costs of maintaining GSI (Trinidad and Tobago) amounting to $52.3 million. The proceeds from these transactions are pocketed by Badal.

Yet another shady transaction of Badal is his stewardship as Chairman and Managing Director of GSI as it relates to his El Dorado Trading Company Ltd and National Edible Oils and Fats Inc (NEOFI) which purchased 4.2 acres of land at Farm, East Bank Demerara, from GPC and GoG in 1997 for US$540,000.

On NEOFI’s failure to complete payments on 10 April 2002, NEOFI (owned

by Badal) assigned its rights, interests and obligations in the Agreement of sale for the land to GSI. In 2003, GSI issued a letter of Guarantee paying for the land and in 2003 the property was transferred to GSI. In the 2013 Annual Report, land disposal totalling $178 million and equipment valued $35 million and sold for $139 million were recorded without any notes or explanations.

Verbal indications revealed that Badal recorded and exited the property from GSI to himself.

Hide of the Jaguar S

atiricus was awfully proud of Rum Jhaat. He was a real stand-up guy when he’d been a civilian lawyer and all that. But Satiricus figured, like most people, he would become politically correct after he attained high office – and do the expedient thing. But again and again, he’d shown the doubting Thomases he was a man for all seasons.

Take that 2am curfew he imposed on drinking at bars.

How many men with his background would’ve had the testicular fortitude to do that? Rum Jhaat wasn’t just your run-of-the-mill “rum sucker”: here was a fellow who’d inspired Lionel Richie to croon “All night long” – when it came to bar hopping! Imagine how ostracised his former drinking buddies must have made him. But since Rum Jhaat JUST KNEW the curfew would end the spiralling crime rate, he stuck to his guns. That takes guts.

It also took guts to announce that crime was going down…it was just a matter of how you looked at the numbers. Rum Jhaat didn’t know what all the fuss was all about. When he looked at the Police reports on month ends, they looked fine to him. Maybe people needed to look at the figures with his eyes.

And now this Jaguar skin business! What stuff and nonsense! So what if the Jaguar was the National Animal and Rum Jhaat was now an official BIG ONE in the Government? The principle that Rum Jhaat was defending was bigger that all of that! “And the principle was the thing, wasn’t it?” thought Satiricus.

As Rum Jhaat explained it, he’d gotten the skin when he was in private practice and by golly after 20 years, he couldn’t even be himself if he didn’t have that Jaguar hide near him. Those people who said he should separate his private from his public life just didn’t realise that this was exactly the principle he would die defending.

A man should have no difference in his private and public life. Why!! Didn’t he prove that when he represented that South Asian Company privately and then when he was in Parliament? So they were going to hang him because he was consistent?

And, in any case, now that he was in charge of “Security” for the nation, wasn’t he showing the world he could protect the Guyanese people from Jaguars at least?

wednesday, december 23, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

News

TGI wants GPL’s CEO sent on leave

...roasts govt over handling of allegations

By Kristen Macklingam

C

hief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Colin Welch has once again found himself under the microscope for his ‘implications in irregularities’ at the power company.

Transparency Institute Guyana Inc (TIGI) in a media statement on Tuesday denounced the ‘cavalier treatment’ by the APNU/AFC coalition on the most recent matter where Welch was fingered for his involvement of the procurement of prepaid meters worth US$4 million by the power company.

The government should have launched a thorough investigation in the face of allegations against the sitting CEO but instead the matter is being ‘quashed’ which appears to have the effect of averting in-depth investigation, TIGI posited.

As a result of the non-action by the administration the CEO is being given the chance to “correct himself in future, if not completely absolve him from any consequences of his actions.”

“TIGI feels that this matter has not been treated with the gravity that has been meted out to other government officials facing allegations of corruption… Under the new government, senior officials have been sent on leave, in many cases without conformance to due process, on which TIGI has voiced its disapproval in the past. This is as good a case as any, for the individual to be sent on leave to facilitate an investigation but instead the public is being told that the future of Welch with the power company will be determined by the new Board,” the press release said.

Guyana Times understands that TIGI had expected consistency from the APNU/ AFC government and has now placed on record its grave concern at the lack of urgency be-

11

CEO Colin Welch

ing demonstrated.

Welch was reported to have communicated with members of a bidding party and more specifically, a supplier and manufacturer of the items subject to the procurement process.

However, the TIGI in its statement emphasised that with a view to ensuring the fundamental basic principles of impartiality, independence and integrity, the public procurement framework sets out clear ethical requirements by the procuring entity which necessarily includes the conduct of the CEO. More egregiously, it is reported that the CEO sought to promote the submission of documents falsely claiming that the manufacturer had historically met the purchasing requirements and therefore possesses experience in the manufacture of the item, tipping the scale in this supplier’s favour, the Institute further stated.

“Troublingly, the Minister, in aborting this tender on the basis that it started under the PPP, fails to appreciate that an illegal act is still illegal regardless of when it is committed or its origin. TIGI is further dissatisfied that the Director of Public Information, in a press statement said that “Minister Patterson... instructed an independent review of the complaints. All of the main complaints were found to be

invalid” since no information is given on who constituted the investigation team, nor any assurance of a transparent investigation having taken place.” the TIGI added.

Guyana Times further understands that TIGI is of the view that GPL is a major public entity and Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson must understand that transparency is expected of and from him as proper conduct is expected from the CEO. In this regard, the TIGI is calling on the minister to disclose to the public the report on the investigations so that the public can decide whether or not an independent review is required.

The acting CEO of GPL was elevated from Deputy CEO – Technical following the dismissal of former CEO Bharat Dindyal in August last.

At that time Welch was

accused of forging his credentials. In early August, Welch had clashed with Dindyal at GPL’s Sheriff Street offices after the then CEO overturned a decision to send home two senior staffers.

Prior to that, his actions had landed him under the microscope when he reportedly instructed a metering crew to conduct a search on Freedom House for the purpose of investigating.

Dindyal had confirmed at that time that no metering crew is tasked with investigative works and he, being the boss of Welch, had been unaware as to what were the grounds for such actions.

He had acknowledged there was a ‘trend’ or ‘pattern’ being developed which indicated that Welch had been sending GPL crews to properties of persons who were/are affiliated with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C). (kristenm@guyanatimesgy.com)

Berbice butcher...

“The other two run away when he get chop and start to holler… all I see is the hand jumping on the floor and he pull back through the window. I open the door and see he lie down on the ground hollering then I close back the door and call the police.”

Police later arrived on the scene and took the injured man to the Fort Wellington Hospital where he was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Following information provided by the injured man, two men were subsequently arrested and are currently assisting with investigations.

According to a source close to the police, the man who is currently under guard at the Georgetown Public Hospital is not going to allow his accomplices to get a way freely since they left him at the scene and fled.

Meanwhile the follow-

from page 9

ing day, in an attempt to save his son and without knowing the true nature of how his son was chopped, Gobin’s father went into the Blairmont Police Station and reported that his son was chopped by a butcher at the Rosignol Market. He told the police that Gobind was in the vicinity of the Rosignol Market when he interfered with a young lady whose boyfriend was in the market hanging out with two others.

The father reported that as Gobind walked pass the boyfriend, and speaking to the young lady in the process, her boyfriend got up and chopped him, causing him to fall. However, the police was sceptical about his story, since it was them who had taken the chopped man to hospital.

This newspaper was told the injured thief’s father will be charged shortly for providing false information to the police.

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wednesday, december 23, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Eccles landfill site fire

Residents affected by smoke R

esidents of Eccles, East Bank Demerara, are once again voicing concerns over the Haags Bosch Landfill Site, after being affected by smoke and a rotting stench when they woke on Tuesday morning to a large fire at the site.

Just recently, the residents shared complaints of the insufferable odour emanating from the landfill, which also led to an infestation of rodents in their homes, all of which, the group noted, multiplies on rainy days. The group also stated they were hoping that attempts would be made to rectify the situation as they are fearful for their health.

It is believed by residents that in attempts to render the situation, the site was burned on Monday evening, which only worsened the situation for those living in close proximity of the area.

Speaking with Guyana Times Terrence Garriba, who resides just two corners from the landfill groaned that since the fire was lit on Monday evening, it has become unbearable for him and family and, he believes, the community as a whole. He added that he has opted to send his only son away until the air becomes breathable again.

Another resident said that all throughout Tuesday, the fire has kept most members of the community indoors as the smoke and stench is suffocating.

One woman stated that those in charge of the Haags Bosch Landfill Site should have given thought to the citizens nearby or alerted them as to what would be the situation. She also noted that this was not the ideal time for firing the site since it is almost Christmas. She complained that her blinds and chairs and other “cloth” ob-

jects now carry the stench and dust of the site which is very dampening to her Christmas Spirit.

It must be noted that earlier this year the Communities Ministry had stated that improving of solid waste management was a priority for the ministry, and the residents shared that they are hoping the ministry keeps this promise.

Several attempts were made by this newspaper to contact Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan, but to no avail.

Juvenile granted bail on simple larceny charge

A

fifteen-year-old teen was granted bail in the sum of $35,000 by Magistrate Clive Nurse, when he appeared at the Linden Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

It is alleged that on December 19, the third form student stole a

shoulder bag, blackberry cell phone and a bunch of keys, all to the value of $66,600, property of Nazeema McLean.

The court was told the incident occurred at Coop Crescent, MacKenzie, Linden.

The case will continue on February 3.

Linden couple granted bail for assault

A

couple who appeared before Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Linden Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday was granted bail and placed on bonds to keep the peace for the offence of assault against each other.

Samantha Moore, 30, an unemployed mother of three and of Lot 1269 Central Amelia’s Ward, Mackenzie, Linden, pleaded not guilty to the charge. It is alleged that

she unlawfully assaulted Dyson Smart at Amelia’s Ward on December 19, 2015.

She was released on $25,000.

Meanwhile, Smart, 31, a farmer, was also charged for unlawfully and maliciously wounding Moore on the said date and at the same place. He was granted bail in the sum of $35,000.

Both cases have been adjourned until January 13.

GPSU berates govt... from page 7

According to the GPSU chief, this bonus will not be paid to workers’ come next year on a monthly basis and therefore it was necessary for the workers’ union to be involved in such decisions.

He maintained that a bonus neither substitutes a salary/wage increase nor does a wage/salary increase substitute a bonus in any work organisation.

It must be reminded that the announcement of the $50,000 bonus drew criticism from the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), and the GPSU. GTUC General Secretary Lincoln Lewis had earlier stated that while he welcomed the announcement, attention cannot be lost to the fact that government at

all times, is required to uphold the rule of law.

“The payment of this bonus, in the absence of an engagement and concurrence with the trade unions that represent public sector workers is another act of violating Article 147 of the Guyana Constitution and Trade Union Recognition Law Section 23 (1) and transgressing the rights of workers,” Lewis had said in a statement to the media.

However, Minister of Governance Raphael Trotman had maintained that government was not in any way being disrespectful to the trade unions, even as he maintained there was no legal requirement for consultations. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy.com)

13 Enmore’s NY Association brings Christmas cheer to hundreds news

wednesday, december 23, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

The sun was out in all its brilliance on Tuesday, and so too were over 100 children from the East Coast Demerara community of Enmore, decked out in colourful garments as they ushered in the season of goodwill.

Drawn from all corners of the village, the young boys and girls were treated to hot meals and gifts, compliments of the Enmore Association of New York (EANY), an organisation comprising individuals from Enmore residing in the Diaspora.

This initiative by the body started well over a decade ago, and it has grown enormously over the years, catering for more youths with every passing

Christmas.

Santa Claus was also in attendance, and apart from meeting and greeting the children, he had the gathering on its feet with some sassy dance moves to Slingshot’s “Spending me Christmas in Guyana.”

The activity, which later catered for older folks, was held in the yard of overseas-based Guyanese and a member of the EANY, Ayube Mohamed, popularly known as “Wise Man.” Mohamed and a large group of volunteers had spent the entire Tuesday morning preparing the venue and edibles, while carefully wrapping the gifts for distribution.

Journalist Avenash

Lindener fined for DUI

A

Lindener was fined $7500 by Magistrate Clive Nurse on Tuesday for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Bonny Wilson appeared at the Linden Magistrate’s Court to answer to the offence of driving while his alcohol level was over the prescribed limit on December 21.

The court heard that Wilson, who was intercepted by a police rank at

the Washer Pond Road, Mackenzie, Linden was driving hire car HC 2101 at the time. He was taken to the Mackenzie Police Station after it was suspected he had been drinking. A breathalyser test was conducted and his alcohol level exceeded the prescribed limit.

Magistrate Nurse fined him, and a failure to pay the fine will result in two months imprisonment.

Amelia’s Ward man fined $15,000 for traffic offence

A

man who hails from Self Help, Amelia’s Ward, Linden, was fined $15,000 for driving an unlighted vehicle.

The defendant, Mark Lewis, 49, appeared before Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Linden Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

The court was told

Lewis drove HB 9770 at Independence Avenue, Mackenzie, Linden, on December 18 during the hours of the morning in total darkness while the vehicle was unlit.

He was fined, and failure to pay the fine will result in a two-month prison term.

Enmore Association of New York member, Ayube Mohamed (in blue shirt), looks on as the young boys and girls interact with Santa Claus

Ramzan, who read a statement by EANY, thanked the residents for partaking in the festivities, noting that the association was extremely happy to once again host the event.

“It is our hope that

this small gift will bring you some joy at this time.

This event is made possible through the generosity of the donors and supporters of this organisation in New York and Canada,” the statement read.

It added: “We would like to thank all our donors and also our volunteers, who have done such a wonderful job in planning and organising this event.

Finally, the organisation would like to thank Ayube

Mohamed (Wise Man) for his generosity in donating his residence, for paying his own airfare, and for all his efforts in making this event a reality and a success.”

The Enmore Association of New York also had a positive message for children, urging them to stay in school and obtain an education, thereby making significant strides in enhancing the status of the community in years to come.

Those who played a major role in this year’s activity were Wind Energy, Ayube Mohamed, Chandra Persaud, Harry Persaud, Rohan Harduwar, Patsy Harduwar, Akbar Khan, Fazal Haniff, Zabeeda Sue, Leon Mangru, Amar Prashad, Roupchan Harduwar, Rudy Persaud, Debbie Singh, Prakash Persaud, Naresh Persaud, Suresh Persaud and Sorace Mulchan.

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Illegal weapon, ammo charge lands man in prison for Christmas

A

man was on Tuesday remanded to prison when he appeared before Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates” Court charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm.

Edward McCullen, 37, of Enterprise, East Coast Demerara denied the charge, which stated that on December 20, he was found to be in possession of an unlicenced rifle along with 19 live rounds of ammunition.

In court on Tuesday, McCullen said that on December 20, at about 20:00h he went to a party with some friends when two police officers approached him and an argument ensued.

He further said the two officers attacked him and during the fight he was hit to his head and fell unconscious. He told the court that when he regained consciousness he was at the Diamond Police Station.

Ramsammy’s Ruminations

Christmas and the holidays were meant for all Guyanese, not just some

T

Edward McCullen

He told the Magistrate he was being falsely accused by the officers who have a vendetta against him.

In a bail application, he told the court he has a number medical issues and needed to be out of prison to deal with those issues.

Magistrate McLennan denied his request and remanded him to prison.

The case will continue on January 18.

he Cabinet members and their families will have a great Christmas and holiday season. In fact, they ensured that every month when they received their paycheques “is Christmas”. They made sure they helped their friends too. Some had contracts worth millions of dollars when they never tendered for the work they were paid for. Others got high-paying jobs.

The public servants, most of whom voted for A Partnership for Dr Leslie Ramsammy National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC), got a slight break, meagre wages and salary increases and a bonus. But what they received from APNU/AFC will not allow them to have the kind of Christmas, Granger, Nagamootoo, Williams and the others will have. Trotman had essentially said public servants should be thankful for small mercies when he defended the vulgar pay increases the Cabinet gave themselves.

Crime is spiralling out of control in Guyana, with robberies, murders and rapes at all-time highs. Business has stagnated.

Thousands have lost their jobs. Yet the biggest criminal acts in Guyana for 2015 might be what APNU/AFC is doing to sugar workers and rice farmers and their families. For the sugar workers and the rice farmers and their families, more than 100,000 people, APNU/AFC simply stabbed them in the back.

Sugar workers had plenty of reasons to strike on many occasions, but they stuck to their task and ensured that the good sugar weather that Guyana was experiencing would not go to waste. They used the dry weather to ensure that sugar production surpassed the 2015 target. No one in the APNU/ AFC Government has thanked the sugar workers for their hard work and sacrifice.

In the midst of an unbelievable salary increase for the President and the Ministers, sugar workers have been denied a wage increase for 2015. This is the first time since 1992 that sugar workers have not gotten a pay increase. The PPP Government always ensured that sugar workers were rewarded with wage increases. Nagamootoo and Ramjattan used to call the wage increases to sugar workers a national disgrace, demanding that sugar workers should be paid more.

Now they are silent as sugar workers have a ZERO wage increase for 2015. Seems like the APNU cat has cut their AFC tongues.

The denial of wage increases for 2015 to sugar workers is a national disgrace. If we expected such treatment of sugar workers from Granger and his APNU colleagues, sugar workers had many reasons to expect Nagamootoo and Ramjattan to stand up for them. They had promised sugar workers a 20 per cent increase. Now they are silent and defending the ZERO wage increase. After all, they joined APNU to pocket all the money the PPP left them in the Treasury.

APNU/AFC has further deepened the wound inflicted on sugar workers by criminally denying the workers their hard-earned Annual Production Incentive (API). The API is not granted as a favour to sugar workers; it is not a bonus workers receive as an option exercised by their employer. It is part of the labour agreement. Since 1992, sugar workers have received between 5 to 23 days of API payment. This year, they go to the holidays without a cent. APNU/AFC has offered them about 3 days pay to be paid until later in 2016.

But APNU/AFC’s response to workers who deserve at least 7 days API payment is either to take the 3 days or nothing.

The rice farmers have been similarly “dissed”. They have again broken the record for rice production. More than 683,000 tonnes of rice were produced by our rice farmers in 2015. Many of these rice farmers are presently bankrupt because of the low paddy prices they have received, and many have not yet been paid for the paddy they sold in 2015.

This is a sorry state of affairs for our beleaguered rice farmers.

Some have begun to lose hope and so far only 35 per cent of rice fields have been sowed when it should be more than 85 per cent.

Christmas and the holidays are for all of us, not just some of us. But APNU/AFC has ensured that some will have a bright Christmas and the majority will watch on and hope that next Christmas will be better for ALL CITIZENS. Somehow, my wish is that everyone finds a way to enjoy Christmas 2015. Even though they should be ashamed of themselves, I sincerely hope that the APNU/AFC Cabinet and their families have a blessed Christmas too.

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news

wednesday, december 23, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Indigenous producers receive quality assurance training at IAST labs

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he first group of Indigenous producers from Region 9 (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo) to benefit from assistance to improve their standards of production, via a partnership between the Social Cohesion Ministry and Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), has been participating in enhancement and quality assurance training at the IAST laboratories.

Fifteen persons were flown to Georgetown and taken to the labs for training, where they were introduced to the technology being used to improve the textures and scents of the soaps and lotions that they produce. They were also taught to use materials in their environment to achieve the same standard as those produced in the laboratory.

In November, the Ministry and IAST had committed to undertake

Two women from the Macusi Women's Group pay keen attention to the demonstration

projects aimed at increasing the earning power of Amerindian producers, in keeping with the ministry’s goal of empowering communities to enhance lives.

At that first meeting with farmers and producers, Professor Suresh Narine, Director of IAST, had committed to flying 15 members from the working groups to the IAST labs

in Georgetown to see firsthand the enhancement methods being used to add value to products. Since then, IAST and the ministry have been working with the Macusi Research Unit (MRU) and Medicine from Trees Women’s Group to add value to their products by adding scents and flavours to hygiene and beauty care items such as soaps,

Digicel hosts children’s party – wraps up festive activities

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o bring Christmas cheers for 2015, Digicel Guyana on Tuesday hosted a grand party for children in the community of Kingston, Georgetown, in the parking lot of the Nursing School’s Annex in the area.

Catering to some 200 children, Communications Officer of the telecommunications giant Vidya Sanichara stated that it is always a pleasure to serve the people and community that has supported Digicel throughout the year. She added that this small but very meaningful gesture for the community of Kingston is just one of the many ways the company is giving back to the people of Guyana.

The eager young men and women of all ages gathered in the area and received hav-

A section of those gathered at Digicel’s Children’s party on Tuesday afternoon

ersacks and bottles, along with snacks and other goodies from the Digicel team.

Many of them had their faces painted and even took turns on the trampoline.

Later in the afternoon, the adults were treated to live performances by Soca Monarch Jomo Primo, and Linden songstress Diana Chapman.

body lotions, and oils; making them into attractive shapes and sizes to ensure access to higher-priced markets.

In an invited comment to the Government Information Agency, Dr Narine said that over the past decade or so there has been a movement of indigenous products and knowledge into the marketplace.

However, he noted that to compete with the outside world, quality and consistency must be assured.

“So what we have done is, we have taken all of their

raw materials from their communities and we have optimised it. We have ensured that the soaps can be made safely, reproducibly and with quality. We added food grade colourants to make it more appealing and fragrances from plants that are grown locally. We also developed liquid soaps, single use personalized bars, moulded soaps with different patterns and liquid soaps which are carefully controlled in terms of its viscosity and so on,” he said.

The group was also taught the science of soap

making, how to deal with variables, branding of the products, how to maximise profits, maximising raw materials and labour, cost to profit ratios and how to draft a business plan to access funding.

Additionally, on a monthly basis, random testing will be conducted by IAST to ensure quality control is maintained and technical support will be given until the producers can meet that standard.

Several other projects are expected to be undertaken in the New Year.

18 news

wednesday, DECember 23, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Man dies after car Flood advisory out for plunges into trench Christmas weekend

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pensioner is now dead after he reportedly lost control of his vehicle and drove into a nearby trench late Monday night.

Dead is 69-yearold Clement Sukdeo of Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara (WCD). The accident occurred around 23:35h at Leonora Public Road, WCD. According to Police reports, Sukdeo was driving along the Leonora Public Road when he lost control of the vehicle which turned turtle in a nearby trench.

Persons in the area told Guyana Times that they were awakened by a loud noise and upon checking, they saw the vehicle in the trench. One man related that he was up watching television when he heard a screeching sound as if a vehicle was skating and then

there was a crashing noise.

“I get up and look out from the window, but I didn’t see anything, but a short while after, I hear neighbours going out on the road, so I decide to go too, then I see the car in the trench,” he noted.

The man explained that Sukdeo was the lone occupant of the vehicle and was unconscious when they pulled him from the toppled car.

Public-spirited persons assisted with transporting the injured man to the Leonora Cottage Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Guyana Times could not get in contact with the family of Sukdeo, but was told he was a doctor. However, this information was not confirmed.

The Police investigation is in progress.

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esidents along the coast in Essequibo, Demerara and Berbice are asked to be prepared for possible flooding in the advent of a spring-tide period.

The advisory was sent out by the Public Infrastructure Ministry. “The general public (are advised) to take all necessary precautions during the spring tides period of December 22, 2015 to December 29, 2015. The predicted tide indicates above normal levels for this impending period,” the release from the Ministry stated.

According to the Sea and River Defence Department, areas along the country’s coastline are considered to be particularly susceptible to possible flooding as a result of storm surges which may induce overtopping of sea/river defence structures.

These areas include: Johanna Cecelia, Cullen/Perseverance, and Charity, Essequibo Coast, and along the Pomeroon River. Zeelandia/Moor Farm, Marionville/Bendorff, Good

Success/Sarah on Wakenaam Island and Thierens/Success, Maryville, Cane Field/Amsterdam, Endeavour/ Blenheim on Leguan Island may also be affected.

Residents of Rotterdam/Crane

and from Anna Catherina to Leonora, West Coast Demerara, are asked to be prepared along with Parika, Look Out and Salem/Sparta, East Bank Essequibo. Water Street

and Kingston in Georgetown as well as Ogle to Mosquito Hall/Unity, East Coast Demerara, will have to be on the alert.

Residents in Bush Lot/Maida, Scottsburg on the Corentyne and those along the East Bank of Berbice River are also being asked to take precautionary measures.

The highest tides during this period are expected to be on Friday, December25, 2015, at 15:47h at a height of 3.10 metres and on Saturday, December 26, 2015, at 16:28h at a height of 3.08 metres.

In addition to the mentioned locations, all persons residing along the banks of rivers and low-lying coastal areas are advised to take all the necessary precautions against possible flooding. Precautions should also be taken by all mariners, including those operating fishing vessels and larger vessels. Use of beaches and foreshore areas for recreational purposes during this period is not advisable.

F Division HQ relocated New direction on child placement in 2016 to Bartica

F Divisional Commander Ravindradat Budhram

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n efforts to enhance policing in the F Division (Interior Locations), the Guyana Police Force has announced that it has

648-0171. No landline telephone is presently in place at the office. Efforts are being made to have this facility available as soon as practicable.

According to the Force, “the developmental movement of the Divisional Headquarters to Bartica will enhance command and control of Police operational activities in the interior”.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Commander Budhram explained that this move would allow him to have more interaction with the public, enhance social interventions with

come a signature feature of the Police Force in its crime prevention efforts.

Budhram expressed his desire to form an Under-15 football team, to reach out more to youths with various social intervention programmes and to enhance sporting activities, including athletics and gymnastics.

On the policing side of things, the Commander pointed out that he would be beefing up patrols in the Division. He noted that already this was being done in the market area in Bartica, with both foot and bicycle patrols increased.

The new F Division Headquarters in Bartica

relocated the Divisional Headquarters to Bartica, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

This change took effect from Monday last. The Divisional Commander, Senior Superintendent Ravindradat Budhram, is now based at Lot 12 Third Street, Bartica and will no longer be at Rabbit Walk, Eve Leary, Georgetown.

Budhram can be reached on cell number

youths in the area and be more available to persons in the backdam areas.

“When I was in Georgetown, I couldn’t do these things,” he stated, adding that the relocation has been in the works for some time now.

Heading into the new year, the F Division Commander said that he would be placing more emphasis on youth programmes, which have be-

Security on the Stelling and the entrance to the beach will also be heightened.

Taking into consideration that the Police Force is still under strength in terms of human resources, Budhram believes that the 34 Police Stations and Outposts within his Division are adequately staffed and will in time be boosted when the resources become available.

– CCPA Director

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he Child Care and Protection Agency (CCPA) plans to place less focus on institutional care as an option for children rescued from abusive situations.

Head of the agency Ann Greene in a recent interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA) explained that CCPA in 2016 will pay particular attention, not only to supporting suitable alternatives when placement is necessary for children, but also working to support the deinstitutionalisation of those children already in the system.

The latter objective will see particular emphasis being placed on building the capacity of the parents of these children to better take care of, and provide for their children. This is because most of the reported cases to the agency are that of neglect, Greene explained.

During this year, the agency has done much towards this goal of deinstitutionalising care.

In 2015, it provided assistance to over 7000 families and by doing so prevented approximately 2000 children from being separated from their families. This was done by providing the families with training, with respect to developing parental skills.

The agency also provided assistance, such as those for basic living needs and purchasing school supplies. Parents

CCPA Head Ann Greene

were also supported in acquiring skills training, and in finding employment, Greene said: “That is tangible support for parents, so we can prevent this unnecessary separation of children.”

In terms of supporting placement for the children, institutionalisation has been the agency’s last resort, Greene pointed out. Focus has always been on placing children in a family-like setting, with the first recourse being placement with a kinship.

“If we can find a relative, we will place a child with a relative, if a relative is not available we would look in our core list of foster parents to see if a foster parent is available and then we would place the child in that because that is a familybased care, and that is what we would like for a child that must be placed in alternative care,” she explained.

Unfortunately a number of children had to be placed in institutions because of the nonavailability of foster parents.

Though not the best placement, residential institutions have been life savers for many children, Greene noted.

“But they are not the best institutional care and children should not stay long in an institution, if they do have to go because the experts say that after four months a child become institutionalised.” she added.

Meanwhile, the creation of more public awareness on the issue of child abuse and highlighting the need for communities to become part of the fight are also on the agency’s 2016 agenda.

“There is this notion of the Child Care and Protection Agency that we have the sole responsibility for children; we have to get rid of that.

Every adult, it is your responsibility to protect a child,” she sated.

To this end, there will be a national campaign, as well as more community consultations, Greene said, for the population to understand child abuse and its effects. Greene said the agency is trying to adopt a changed approach, to get persons to regard children differently: “No child deserves to be abused and child abuse is not just the responsibility of child care agency. It is the responsibility of every adult.”

wednesday, december 23, 2015

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IAAF’s Davies steps aside to McCullum to retire from internationals allow ethics investigation in February

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ick Davies, a leading official at the world athletics federation (IAAF), said on Tuesday he would step aside while an ethics committee investigated emails he had sent regarding Russian doping ahead of the 2013 world championships in Moscow.

On Monday, the French newspaper Le Monde published an email sent by the Briton to Papa Massata Diack, a former IAAF marketing consultant and the son of former IAAF president Lamine Diack, that discussed developing a media strategy to limit the news impact of a series of positive tests by Russian athletes.

Davies was the IAAF’s director of communications at the time, but is now director of IAAF President Sebastian Coe’s office.

“What has become apparent today is that I have become the story,” Davies said in a statement distributed by the IAAF, adding that he was stepping aside pending a ruling on his conduct by the IAAF Ethics Board.

He said he had voluntarily offered full assistance to the board as well as French police and the World AntiDoping Agency.

“I have referred my emails to Papa Diack in 2013, my statements and the circumstances of the

N

Nick Davies

emails to the IAAF Ethics Board,” Davies added.

Both Diacks are under investigation by the IAAF and French police on suspicion of corruption relating to the concealment of positive dope tests. At the same time, Russian athletes are currently banned from the sport following revelations of widespread, state-sponsored doping.

The email cited by Le Monde, which Davies was said to have described as “very secret”, said: “I need to be able to sit down with the anti-doping department and understand exactly what Russian ‘skeletons’ we have still in the cupboard regarding doping.

“We can prepare a special dossier on IAAF testing which will show that one of the reasons why these

Russian athletes come up positive is that they get tested a lot.”

The email also suggested that Coe, then an IAAF vicepresident, might be able to use his political influence in Britain to minimise the damage any doping revelations might do, and sought ways to fend off negative stories in the British media.

Davies said on Monday that the mail was merely “brainstorming for a media strategy” and that he had done nothing wrong.

Massata Diack on Tuesday denied any involvement in bribery or corruption and said his father was also innocent.

The IAAF said on Monday that Coe would not comment on an email he knew nothing about. (Reuters

Sports)

ew Zealand captain Brendon McCullum will retire from all forms of international cricket at the end of the home series against Australia in February 2016. McCullum, 34, made the announcement in Christchurch a day after his team won the Test series against Sri Lanka 2-0.

McCullum will not play the World T20 in March in India, where Kane Williamson will captain the New Zealand team. He will play his 100th Test against Australia in Wellington from February 12 - the first player to play so many consecutive matches from debut - and retire after the second and final Test of that series, in Christchurch from February 20.

McCullum said he would have preferred to reveal his retirement after the series against Australia, but the impending announcement of New Zealand’s World T20 squad had forced his hand.

“Ideally, I would have preferred to wait until after the Test in Christchurch to make this news public,” he said today. “However, the schedule for naming the ICC World T20 squads means I couldn’t have managed this without causing a lot of confusion and speculation - something I was keen to

Brendon McCullum

avoid. I’ve loved my opportunity to play for, and captain the Blackcaps, but all good things have to come to an end, and I’m just grateful for the wonderful experience of playing for my country.

“There’s a time and place for reflection and that’s at the end of your career. For now, I’ll be giving all my attention to helping the team focus on what’s coming up over the next few weeks and making sure we’re in the best possible shape for what’s going to be a very challenging summer.”

McCullum had stepped into the New Zealand captaincy amid much controversy over the sacking of previous captain Ross Taylor, and his first Test series as captain, in 2013, was disastrous. That series featured

an innings of 45 all out for New Zealand in Cape Town, and brought the team two innings defeats.

But New Zealand made significant strides under McCullum in the years since.

In particular, he was credited with formulating New Zealand’s highly aggressive brand of cricket, which has brought them much success, especially at home. With the victory against Sri Lanka in Hamilton on Monday, McCullum’s New Zealand equalled the team’s longest undefeated home streak, of 13 Tests. McCullum’s current 11 victories from 29 matches also makes his win percentage the highest of any New Zealand captain, marginally better than that of Geoff Howarth, whose team had 11 wins from 30 games.

McCullum’s captaincy also saw the blossoming of several New Zealand players. Trent Boult and Tim Southee have become one of the most feared new-ball pairs in the world during the past three years, while 25-year old batsman Kane Williamson has become the top-ranked Test batsman.

New Zealand also played in their first World Cup final in March, under McCullum.

(Cricinfo)

Bravo stresses on confidence factor ahead of 2nd Test T

ake a look at the scorecard from West Indies’ tour match in Geelong at the weekend and you’d be forgiven for thinking it was as meaningless as warm-up games get. A two-day match against a Victorian XI featuring only two players - neither of them bowlers - with first-class experience. But Darren Bravo hopes that if his fellow batsmen gained just one thing from the game it is this: confidence.

West Indies have been sorely lacking it of late. In Sri Lanka in October they were roundly defeated and none of the batsmen scored centuries in the two Tests; in fact, only Bravo and Jermaine Blackwood managed so much as a fifty.

That was followed by a tour game in Brisbane that the team lost to a rookie Cricket Australia XI, which in turn was followed by a crushing three-day loss in the first Test.

But as poor as West Indies were in Hobart, there were a couple of encouraging signs. Bravo himself scored a classy 108 in the first innings, but was let down by the complete lack of support from the rest of the batting order. In the second, Kraigg Brathwaite found himself in a similar position, posting 94 out of a total of 148. A bit more back-up in either innings and it could have been a much tighter contest.

So, as weak as the Victorian attack was in Geelong, West Indies were still pleased that Blackwood, after making a pair in the Hobart Test, managed 69, that Brathwaite backed up from his Test effort with 78, and that Marlon Samuels and Denesh Ramdin at least spent some time in the middle. Bravo did not bat in Geelong but was pleased with what he saw, and hopes that the batsmen will be better for it come Boxing Day.

Darren Bravo scored a classy 108 in the first innings in Hobart, but was let down by the complete lack of support from the rest of the batting order. (Getty Images)

“It’s just a matter of confidence,” Bravo said. “Coming in to this series most of our batsmen didn’t really have that confidence. We lost the series in Sri Lanka, we lost the practice game as well in Brisbane. It’s a matter of confidence.

“It’s important that

whenever we go to bat we spend some time out in the middle. If we spend time we’re definitely going to score runs. Naturally we play aggressive cricket where batting is concerned. It’s just a matter of us spending time out in the middle and putting up a very good fight.

“It’s very important we look at the positives. In the practice game young Blackwood played pretty well, as well as Kraigg Brathwaite. The bowlers had a very good run, including Jerome Taylor. The guys are putting in the work, it’s just a matter of us going out there and executing.”

West Indies trained at the MCG on Tuesday for the first time ahead of the Test, which starts on Saturday, while the Australians will begin training on Wednesday. The Victorian fast bowler Scott Boland has been added to

Australia’s squad as an injury replacement for Nathan Coulter-Nile, and while Josh Hazlewood, Peter Siddle and James Pattinson remain the likely attack, Bravo knows from his Hobart ton that scoring opportunities will present themselves.

“The Australian bowlers, they have a plan exactly how they want to get us out,” he said. “You respect the good balls and put away the bad balls. Yes they are a very good team but at the end of the day they are still humans. They’re going to present bad balls and it’s just a matter of putting it away. I don’t think you should be bogged down too much. Don’t be intimidated by the Australian bowlers.

Just back yourself and your ability.

“When you’re not scoring runs it is difficult to pick yourself up. I believe the guys have that sort of resilience in them. Most of us

have scored international hundreds. We have proven that we are definitely capable of playing at this level.

It is just a matter of going out there and spending some time.”

It was also easy to forget after the three-day result in Hobart that at lunch on day one, West Indies were arguably in the stronger position, having picked up three wickets after Australia chose to bat. However, they then allowed Adam Voges and Shaun Marsh to compile a record fourth-wicket partnership that batted West Indies out of the match.

“It’s very important that whenever we’re in the driver’s seat we try and stay there,” Bravo said. “I remember in the first Test match we had Australia three for 100 or something like that.

We were in the driver’s seat and we let loose. We need to maintain the momentum in the game.” (Cricinfo)

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guyanatimesGY.com

wednesday, december 23, 2015

NAGICO Super 50 Cricket competition

Crandon highlights keys to success at upcoming Super 50

Gudakesh Motie bowls during practice and will be looking to stake a claim for a place

By Akeem Greene

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he Guyana Jaguars cricket team has started training for the upcoming Super50 competition in Trinidad and Tobago and St Kitts and Nevis. The team has been conducting various training drills at the Georgetown Cricket Club, Bourda.

When Guyana Times Sport spoke to Coach Esan Crandon after a day at practice, he highlighted the much needed areas of improvement, “we have to stick to basics, better rotation of strike, picking off boundaries at appropriate times; taking calculated risks; improving our fielding, it was bit scrappy last year and improving on the depth bowling”.

Quizzed if any of these areas were seeing improvements since the start of the training sessions, the coach said “ We only had two days of work but the guys have been putting some quality

work in and they understand it’s a more high paced game, I’m happy with the attitude so far”.

Crandon had high praise of the team’s success in the four day format, and hopes it can be carried into the shorter version. The coach is adamant that the high confidence of the team will be the driving force behind the projected success. “When the team is winning, the confidence is high and we just got to continue that, our ultimate goal is to bring the

championship home but it will take hard work” the former all rounder said.

Today the training squad is expected to conduct a match simulation exercise, and also they are expected to play two practice matches on December 28 and 30 at the Providence National Stadium after which the final squad will be named.

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

Despite their red ball success, in recent times, they have struggled with the white ball having last won a 50-over tourney during the 2005-06 season when the defeated Barbados by seven runs on Duckworth/Lewis method. (akeemg@guyanatimesgy.com)

Veerasammy Permaul engaged in throw downs

Mobile Wizards 10/10 cricket

NSC honours former outstanding athletes

By Akeem Greene

In keeping with the spirit of the festive season, Director of Sport Christopher Jones handed over hampers to former athletes who represented Guyana with great distinction.

The athletes receiving hampers compliments of the National Sports Commission were Jennet Lovell, former netball player and coach, Pamela London; a former World Champion Boxer and Mosses Dwarka; a former powerlifter.

Lovell was grateful for

the donation, “I was never expecting anything, so I’m grateful for the donation, the sport has done well for me, and it has been the reason why I got my current job, I’m just glad to be recognized”, Lovell said.

London who received the surprise visit was also extremely appreciative of the kind gesture,” I’m very glad the Director of sport, came and give me the donation; I’m a former world champion and I deserve this”, London said.

The Director along with

other members of the commission visited these former athletes at their homes and it is expected that this activity will be a continuous one.

The major aim of the outreach was to pay tribute to those who performed well for the country, as a sign of showing appreciation of their talents.

Jones also posited that this was a part of rebranding the image of the Sports Commission and becoming actively involved body in sports. (akeemg@guyanatimesgy.com)

WICB upholds ban against Narine E

mbattled West Indies spinner Sunil Narine will take no part in this season’s NAGICO Super50 tournament after the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) rejected a request from the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) for the player to be allowed to play.

Narine was banned by the International Cricket Council (ICC), after it deemed his action illegal, however, the WICB had vowed to support the spinner, giving the player and the TTCB hope that he would still be able to play some form of cricket.

Last season Narine bowled Trinidad and Tobago Red Force to victory, taking six for nine in the final against the Guyana Jaguars.

The WICB, though in full support of Narine, has said it is not willing to run its affairs contrary to the dictates of the ICC. “The WICB did not think it wise to allow Narine to

take the field until such time as a test is done which shows that his action is legal. It would be contrary to the ICC’s findings if the Board allowed him to play without allowing him to prove that his action was legitimate,” a source was quoted in the Trinidad and

petition begins right after the Super50 ends.

Narine’s ban has come after he was called for an illegal action for the third time in his career.

The spinner was called in the Indian Premier League, then in the now defunct Champions League,

Sunil Narine

Tobago Guardian as saying.

Though Narine cannot play for the Red Force, he will be allowed to play domestic cricket and could turn out for the Queen’s Park Cricket Club. Trinidad and Tobago’s domestic com-

before his most recent summoning for his action against Sri Lanka.

Narine had taken a break from bowling to work on his action and had only just returned to international cricket when he was banned. (Digicel Sportsmax)

Top teams tack on more wins Taylor always tries his best T

he Mobile Wizard 10/10 cricket tournament organised by the Guyana Softball League in collaboration with the West Demerara Softball League concluded its tenth weekend with teams pushing to enhance their chances of a top six berth.

The tournament is being sponsored by Mobile Wizard, Trophy Stall, V&P Supermarket, Rohan Furniture Establishment, Miss Love Trading, Wolf’s Furniture Store and Imtiaz and Imran Hack.

The weekend’s results improved records and gained teams valuable points in their quest to be the best team on the West Coast Demerara as well as East Bank Demerara.

Settle XI cruise past by eight wickets to remain unbeaten MMZ XI won the toss and batted scoring 80 all out in 10 overs with only Akash Rahaman 16(1x6) offering any resistance; Diaram Persaud was in a destructive mood taking 3-10 off 2 overs. Settle XI replied with

81-2 in 5 overs with Skipper Nazim Azeem 36 (5x6s) off 18 balls again among the runs.

Crossbreed Warriors demolished Superstreet Reloaded by 60 runs in a low scoring affair Cross breed Warriors batted first and crumbled to 80 all out in 10 overs with Anthony Arjune 27 (4x6s) off 17 balls being the top score. Devindra Persaud 2-8 off 2 overs and Seepersaud Persaud 2-21 off 2 overs were the destroyers. Superstreet Reloaded fared even worse being bundled out for the lowest score in the tournament of 20 in overcast conditions.

Yoganand Rajnarine 3-2 in 2 overs and Anthony Arjune 2-7 off his two overs were in destructive form but it was the four run outs were the telling blows on the superstreet reloaded batting.

Leonora Youths defeated Irfaan XI by three wickets Irfaan XI won the toss and batted scoring 79 all out in 10 overs with only Prem Persaud 28 (1x4,2x6s) showing that he can han-

dle the bowling. Bowling for Leonora Youths Hemendra Kowlessar 2-14 from 2 overs was the pick of the bowlers. Leonora Youths hit off the required runs in 4.1 overs scoring 81 with Imtiaz Hack pulverizing the bowling with a quick fire 45laced with 6 sixes and one four off 16 balls.

Zeeburg Warriors gained a walkover from Next Level XI; both teams who failed to show up with the required players will be fined Arun Kumar was the winner for the day in the one ball “manto”and was the recipient of one Oakley shades and a bat compliments of Imran Hacks and the popular bat maker Ickram Ali Additionally the Guyana Softball League, its affiliates and sponsors would like to wish the entire Guyana a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year and would like to inform all the players there will be no matches this coming weekend because of the holidays.

Matches will resume on the first Sunday in January 2016.

- Bravo defends under-fire Windies bowler

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ut-of-favour West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has launched a strong defence of under fire Jerome Taylor in the wake of heavy criticism following a recent casual fielding display.

Taylor was caught off the field with his back to the play on the final day of a tour match against a Victoria XI side, the player as a result failed to take a routine catch.

Many have pointed to the incident as continued evidence of a general lack of interest from senior players currently on the tour of Australia, where the team were walloped by an innings and 212 runs in the first Test.

Bravo, however, believes such speculation is unwarranted and insists Taylor always gives maximum effort.

“I don’t think any player would go on a cricket field and ... not care. All of us go

out there to try our best.

This is our job, this is what we do,” said Bravo, who is playing for Melbourne Renegades because of his long-term exclusion from the Test team.

Indies, whether the wicket is seaming or whether the wicket is flat.

“Sometimes as players, we all go through it, where you play your heart out but the scorecard doesn’t reflect

Jerome Taylor

“It’s easy to say the players aren’t interested or the players don’t care, but it’s far from the truth. Jerome Taylor is someone who bowls his heart out for the West

your effort.

“Definitely Jerome Taylor is someone who gives 100 per cent all the time. As a former captain, he’s a bowler you want behind you.” (Digicel

Sportsmax)

sports

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IPSC Guyana hosts 2015 awards presentation

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immigration Immigration & Visa Services We handle all Canadian, USA and UK immigration and visa matters. Self sponsorships, holiday/ visitor’s visas, work permits, students visas, family, class, immigration forms, embassy enquiries, appeals for refused cases, US green card lottery, business class waivers, pardons, etc. Get your visa approved. High success rate. Balwant Persaud & Associates. Certified Immigration Consultants, 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings & Lights Sts) Tel: 225-1540, 622-8308, 655-3105.

Email: balwantpersaud@yahoo.ca

KEY CUTTing Professional Key Shop, 125 Carmichael Street, Georgetown. Phone: 225-3923, mobile: 621-3249. We cut any type of key, service and repair all types of locks. Get your extra key today. optician

Da Silva’s Optical. For Your Eyes Only, Look Better See Better. Phillip A Da Silva OD, Shannon L Da Silva OD, Natalie Da Silva OD. 248 South Road, Bourda. Phone: 227-3529, Linden: 444-6376, Corriverton: 339-3536, Meten-Meer-Zorg: 275-0322, Grand Cayman Islands: (345) 943-1515 for the perfect trendy touch.

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lAND FOR SALE PARFAITE HARMONIE (80FT X 45FT) $1M. EAST COAST (LOWLANDS) $1.8M. PARFAITE HARMONIE (100FT X 50FT FENCED) $3.2M. 6117223, 604-2207 Formerly Globe Cinema, Corner lot, Church and Waterloo Street Size 125 ft x 133 ft Tel # 610-2234

services House plans & estimates, weeding of grass and spraying done within 48hrs. Call: 216-0671; 622-0267; 692-8464

spirituality Surinamese spiritualist. Resolving all problems. Money, love, blockage etc. Call 223-6834/600-7719.

Suriname’s Astrology, Palmist and Hindustani Spiritual Healer, solve all purpose problems, 100% confidential guaranteed. Phone: 602-8997 HEPHZIBAH MINISTRIES 24 hrs Prayer Line 322-5081,337-4510,3374259,337-4583,337-3070,337-5103.

For healing, deliverance, financial difficulties, marriage issues call now.

Jesus Cares.

services Repairs and Spares, Air Conditioning Car/ AC, Washers , Stoves. Call: Nick, 683-1312, 627-3206

taxi services GR Taxi, 24 hours. Phone: 225-7878, 219-5000 or 227-2100

VEHICLES FOR SALE 1 TOYOTA IPSUM (7 SEATER) IN EXCELLENT WORKING CONDITION WITH MUSIC (5800 W): CONTACT 653-1003 JUST ARRIVED: TOP QUALITY RECONDITIONED VEHICLES; TOYOTA NOAH; TOYOTA VOXY; TOYOTA IST (NEW SHAPE); SUZUKI SWIFT; DAIHATSU MOVE (660CC); MERCEDES BENZ C200 KOMPRESSOR; COROLLA AE100 WAGON; TOYOTA HIACE MINIBUS RZ; PITBULL-STYLE FREEZER VAN; LAND CRUISER (FULLY LOADED); MAZDA PROCEED 4WD EXTRACAB PICK-UP; TOYOTA HILUX 4WD EXTRA CAB PICKUPS - 3RZ, 5L, 3L SOLID DEFFERNTIAL; MITSUBISHI CANTER TRUCKS 4 TONS FREEZER; 3 TONS OPEN TRAY; 2 TONS 4WD; NISSAN ATLAS 2 TONS OPEN TRAY TRUCK. PRE-ORDER YOUR UNITS EARLY AND GET THE BEST PRICES. FULL AFTER SALES SERVICES AND FINANCING AVAILABLE. DEO MARAJ AUTO SALES, 2 CHIMNEY ROAD, CHATEAU MARGOT, ECD. 624-0762, 220-5177. A NAME AND SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST

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

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

Chief-of-Staff of the GDF, Brigadier Mark Phillips (seated second left), IPSC Regional Director- Guyana) Harold Hopkinson (seated second right), Vidushi Persaud (seated left) and Ryan Mc Kinnon (seated right) along with the other awardees following the presentation of awards

T

he Guyana National Rifle Shooting A s s o c i a t i o n

(Guyana NRA) and the International Practical Shooting Confederation

(IPSC) held their first awards presentation following the first year of

IPSC sanctioned shooting in Guyana.

The occasion was held on Friday evening last the Crown Mining Supply Roof Gardens, Middleton Street, Campbellville, and was graced with the presence of Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Mark Phillips, MSM, who is also President of the Guyana NRA. Regional Director of IPSC (Guyana), Harold Hopkinson thanked Brigadier Phillips, members and the many sponsors who would have contributed through the year for their support which made the year a successful one.

This year marked the first time in history of Guyana NRA that there were three Level One shoots under the IPSC rules, Hopkinson noted while stating that for 2016 they are aiming for at least one competition per month as we as a level 2 competition. IPSC and the Guyana NRA also hosted Range Officers Course.

Following are the names of the awardees and the categories which they won: Standard (Higher Quality – as much as 22 rounds in magazine) – 1st Vidushi Persaud; 2nd Mohamed Qualander; 3rd Gordon Richards; 4th Lawrence Layne; 5th Azaad Hassan; 6th Harold Hopkinson; 7th David Dharry; 8th Murtland Smith; 9th John Ferreira; 10th Randy Sarjoo.

Production (Normal Gun – only 15 rounds in magazine) – 1st Ryan McKinnon; 2nd Rajiv Latchana; 3rd Surujbali Persaud; 4th Romesh Latchana; 5th Shawn Smith; 6th Roberto Tewari; 7th Fabian Stuart.

Among the IPSC sponsors for the year were Industrial Safety Supplies Inc., Queensway, Secure Innovations and Concepts Inc., Guyana’s Première Aviation Security Specialists and firearm dealer, General Marine Company Limited, Hakeem Mohammed General Store - licensed firearm dealers, and Dr Karen Persram Optometrist.

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guyanatimesGY.com

wednesday, december 23, 2015

EBFA/Stag Super XVI…

Sweet Water Aqua Farm / Multi Cultural Sports Club T20 Competition

Round of 16 concludes today Action continued with at Den Amstel 2 thrilling matches A Rakesh Haimnauth (left) and Cordel Johnson

S

eeking to join Ann’s Grove, Beavers, Uitvlugt, Victoria Kings and last evening’s winners from the matches that involved Soesdyke Falcons versus Pouderoyen and Golden Grove versus Grove Hi Tech will be the winners of the final round of 16 matches set for today at the Den Amstel ground, West Coast Demerara.

Home team Den Amstel will put everything on the line when they engage East Bank’s Agricola Red Triangle in the main attraction, with another East Bank side, Kuru Kururu Warriors, taking on East Demerara’s Mahaica Determinators in the night’s opening showdown.

Den Amstel have lost some ground as the leading side on the West Side, but

this clash and tournament offers them the perfect opportunity to chart a path back to a number one ranking in the WDFA, but they will first have to get past EBFA’s number two side, Agricola Red Triangle.

Carrying the charge for the home apart from the hundreds of fans that

are expected to fill the stand and seats at the Den Amstel Community Centre ground are Dwayne Wilson, Travis Hamilton, Colin Benn, Wycliffe Simon, Ryan Hunte, Andre Hector, Jamal Perreira, Akimbo Henry, Gavin Graham, Oret Stephenson, Paul and Joey Payne and Kevon Warde.

Agricola Red Triangle will be no pushovers and have a solid team on paper led by their number marksman Gordon Grant. Many of the villagers from Agricola are expected to make the journey to Den Amstel to support their team in their quest to, first take care of the home team as they make a charge for the top prize of $1.5 million compliments of Ansa McAl under the Stag Beer brand.

Supporting Grant will

Travis Welch (left) and Gordon Grant

be Winston and Akeem Rawlins, Jermaine Frank, Travis Farina, Travis Welch, Collis Samuels and Egbert Nedd.

The penultimate roundof-16 match features Mahaica Determinators against Kuru Kururu Warriors. The Warriors, based on the Linden Soesdyke Highway will be aiming to create a huge impression and like Agricola, will be working to make it past this round, unlike last year.

The Warriors will pin their efforts on the mixture of experienced and young players to aid in their success tonight.

Deon Denhart, Cordell Johnson, Christopher Fraser, Christopher Alleyne, Joseph James, Ryan Scott, Nicholas Holder, Franklyn Medouze, Rakesh Haimnauth, Allen Oslemo, Joshoua Oslemo, Mario DeFreitas, Michael Carrington and Ethan Sparman among others will take on that responsibility.

Mahaica’s challenge will be spearheaded by the likes of Terry Caesar, Shameer Zaneer, Demon Charles, Nickel Benjamin, Curtley Adams, Andrew Williams, Kirk Roberts, Delroy Pereira and Quincy Holder.

Quarter-final action will kick off at the Farm Community Centre ground this Friday- Christmas Day and the Victoria ground on Boxing Day.

ction in the Sweet Water Aqua Farm / Multi Cultural Sports Club T20 Competition continued with two thrilling matches over the weekend at the MBMR ground, Canal Number Two, West Bank Demerara.

Game one of the day on Saturday saw Independence B having no mercy on Belle Vue Sports Club as they took advantage of an ineffective bowling attack that found it difficult to penetrate a strong Independence batting line up.

Independence B scored fluently throughout their innings, amassing a hefty total of 201/5 off their allotted 20 overs. Batting for Independence B, Safraz Essau made good use of two drop chances, scoring and unbeaten 95, and D Mohabir was the other contributor with a good knock for 42.

Bowling for Belle Vue Sports Club was Mustafaa Azimullah who captured figures of 2/18.

When Belle Vue took to the crease chasing 202 for victory, the opening pair of Azimullah and R. Thakoor took the attack to Independence B, blasting the bowlers to all parts of the ground Thakoor (28) lost his wicket with the score at 81 in the sixth over. Azimullah lost his wicket four deliveries later scoring 54.

Belle Vue Sports Club did not capitalize on the platform that was built and

continued to lose wickets and eventually collapsed for 142 in 15 overs.

Bowling for Independence B, were S. Shivgobin and V Dhaniram who claimed figures of 5/37 and 2/20 respectively.

Meanwhile game two on Sunday saw Independence B booking their place in the final by defeating Rising Stars.

After an unbeaten 95 on the previous day, Essau followed up with a good knock of 55 leading the batting line up for Independence B. Y. Haniram also showed good form with the bat, hitting 41. Independence B batted first and posed a challenging total of 196 all out in 19.3 overs.

Bowling for Rising Stars, C Chung picked up 4/24 from four overs and R. Essau 2/22 from four overs.

Chasing a hefty total, Rising Star were bundled out for 114 in 16 overs. Q Grimmonds made 19 and Elroy (only name given) 11, were the main contributors.

Bowling for Independence B, M. Oanpaul picked up 3/12 off one over and T. Narine 3/8 off three overs.

Independence B will square off against West Siders La Grange in the final on December 27 at the MBMR Ground. The match commences at 12:30h as both teams are required to be at the ground one (1) hour before play.

guyanatimesGY.com

wednesday, december 23, 2015

23

Guyana captures 15 medals Trophy Stall continues tradition from Suriname swim meet KMTC Boxing Day horse race meet

with champion jockey trophy

A strong alliance! Managing Director of the Trophy Stall, Ramesh Sunich (left), is all smiles as he presents the champion jockey trophy to KMTC president, Justice Cecil Kennard

T

rophy Stall’s tradition of providing the champion jockey trophy for the annual Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club (KMTC) Boxing Day horse race meet continued on Tuesday when the business establishment presented a massive trophy to president of the KMTC, Justice Cecil Kennard.

In presenting his package to the KMTC, Managing Director of the Trophy Stall, Ramesh Sunich, said he was extremely proud to be associated with the Boxing Day event, noting that the race is one of the highlights of the local horse racing calendar.

He wished the organisers all success at the seasonending meet, adding that his company stands ready to offer support in the future.

Justice Kennard expressed gratitude for the gesture by

Sunich, revealing that all systems are in place for a highly successful day of racing.

The event, to be staged at the KMTC’s track at Bush Lot, Farm, Corentyne, will be headlined by the feature C and Lower, which will run for a mile and has a first prize of $1 million. The second to fourth place finishers will receive $500,000, $250,000 and $125,000 respectively.

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.

The main supporting six-furlong race will be the E and Lower, which will see the top horse and jock-

Bulls, Raiders square-off for top ranking

U

nbeaten clubs Retrieve Raiders and Half Mile Bulls will go head-to-head at 21:00h this evening in the final preliminary game of the Linden Amateur Basketball Association’s organised Banks Malta Supreme Christmas basketball championship being played at the Mackenzie sports Club hard court.

Basketball fans are in for a treat tonight in this final preliminary match to determine the number one seed as they head into the semifinals to be played next Monday.

The featured game between the Bulls and Raiders game will be the second as a Linden East and West matchup is set for 19:00h.

Already qualified for the semifinals are third seed Victory Valley Royals and fourth seed Amelia’s Ward Jets.

The Raiders will be led by their experienced former national forwards Neil Marks, Dwayne ‘Brown’ Sugar’ Roberts, once he is available, and the for-

mer national coach Abdulla Hamid.

They also have acquired the services of another former national guard Marvin Hartman and with young Duel Garner and Cole Winter supporting, the Raiders must fancy themselves to get past this Half Mile Bulls side.

However, the young Bulls have won the last two tournaments staged by the association and certainly must be rated as the favoured side to win.

They are led by the national players in the back court Terron Welch, Dennis Niles and Michael Turner who all made their debut and played recently in the Guyana versus Antigua and Barbuda All Star series.

They are all capable of playing the up-tempo basketball with the exciting youngster Keifer Tappin, but Welch has not been in great form thus far.

Turner and Neils are now approaching their peak form while Welch shooting form is needed to secure a win tonight.

ey 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.

The Guyana swim team celebrate their success

G

uyana performed well at the Suriname VOS 2015 Invitational Swim Meet, gaining 15 medals when the competition was held over the past weekend.

With Guyana being the only country to attend, the swimmers picked up nine gold, four silver and two bronze medals.

Guyana’s most outstanding swimmers were Leon

Seaton who won five medals, capturing four gold medals (50m back, 50m free, 50m fly, 100m IM) and a silver medal in the 200m freestyle relay event; Aleka Persuad won four gold medals as well in the 50m backstroke, 50m freestyle, 50m breaststroke and the 100m IM. Trumaine Cole captured one gold medal in the 100m freestyle while all oth-

er swimmers according to a press release did their best by improving their times and gaining experience.

Suriname complimented team Guyana for the level of competition is inviting Guyana to another swim meet in 2016. This request will be taken into consideration by the Federation and swim clubs, the release noted.

wednesday, december 23, 2015

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

NAGICO Super 50 Cricket competition

Crandon highlights keys to success at upcoming Super50

Pg 20 Christopher Barnwell takes a catch during practice at the GCC Ground (Marceano Narine Photos)

NSC honours former outstanding athletes Pg 20

Jennet Lovell along with her daughter receives a hamper from the Director

Pamela London receives her hamper form the Director of Sport

Pg 20

WICB upholds ban against Narine Sunil Narine

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