Guyana Times Daily

National P14 Suicide Prevention Plan to be implemented Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 2742

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

PRICE

Wales Sugar Estate closure

Jagdeo outlines course of action to save sugar industry

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE: Haags Bosch Landfill site

Govt takes over operations – Site Manager

P2

Wife abuser jailed for P8 36 months

Bartica suicide

Family denies tormenting victim P2 LGE 2016

– hundreds worry about hardships – Region 3’s economy will die – residents

P11

PPP wants Supplementary Voters’ List, info on Nominations Day See stories on pages 3&17

Hundreds of private cane farmers, business owners and residents in Region Three converged at a public meeting with Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo at Wales Market on Tuesday

Missing Sophia man found dead in trench

Page 10

Gaskin urges governmental takeover of Berbice Bridge – to lower economic pressure on commuters

Page 7

Drone buzzes GDF helicopter Page 10

Supreme Court to host domestic violence P12 seminar

2 news

wednesday, january 20, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Govt grants petroleum prospecting licence to Tullow, Eco Guyana

Tullow Exploration and Business Unit Manager (South America) John McKenna signs the Agreement as Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman (centre); British High Commissioner to Guyana Greg Quinn (left) and acting Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Commissioner Newell Dennison (standing) look on

T

he Government has signed a Petroleum Prospecting Licence and Production Sharing Agreement with the joint venture team of Tullow

Guyana BV and Eco (Atlantic) Guyana Inc for a concession of 1801 square kilometres, called the Orinduik Block, just offshore Guyana.

The agreement calls for a work programme involving a geological and geophysical evaluation which will inform a 3D seismic acquisition, all

within the initial period of the licence, which is 10 years.

Tullow Exploration and Business Unit Manager (South America) John McKenna and Eco Chief Operating Officer Colin Kinley signed for their respective companies.

British High Commissioner to Guyana Greg Quinn also attended the simple signing ceremony that marked the continuation of a longstanding partnership with Tullow and the Government.

Tullow is a prominent company from the United Kingdom with operations in Africa. It is currently in another joint venture with Repsol Exploracion Guyana Inc in the adjacent Kanuku Block. Eco Atlantic is a junior independent company with Canadian origins.

Haags Bosch Landfill site

Govt takes over operations – Site Manager

G

overnment is presently in control of all operations being carried out at the Haags Bosch Landfill site.

Manager of the site, Lloyd Stanton on Tuesday explained to Guyana Times that the site was in operation, but he was await-

uncontrollable due to negligence of the relevant authorities,” Stanton said.

Over the late Decemberearly January period, residents living in close proximity to the Haags Bosch Landfill were at their wits’ end given the smoke that enveloped their homes.

Haags Bosch Landfill site

ing instructions from the Government on what would be the necessary measures for the continuation of work at the site.

Stanton added that they have managed to completely extinguish the recent fire in a collaborative venture with BK International and the Guyana Fire Service (GFS).

He also stated that BK International was no longer in control of the premises since the new changes were implemented.

“I’m unable to give any reasons why these changes were being made. I cannot say what is the next move to be made by the Government, in relation to this matter. This fire was ongoing for several weeks, which eventually became

Most persons were forced to keep their homes locked, while dealing with the adverse effects of the thick grey smoke that polluted the air. This eventually led to a total shutdown of the site in order to rectify the situation. However, due to poor management and failure to comply with site regulations, it was difficult to contain the blaze.

Alternative arrangements were then immediately made for the garbage trucks to be redirected to the Lusignan dumpsite.

Efforts to get a comment from the Solid Waste Manager within the Communities Ministry on alternative measures to operations carried out at the site proved futile.

Bartica suicide

Family denies tormenting victim

F

Sean Beykarran

amily members of the 22-year-old Bartica man, who was found hanging in his home last Saturday, have denied that they played a part in pushing him to suicide.

The community of Bartica was thrown into a state of shock after Sean Beykarran of Fourth Street and Second Avenue, Bartica was discovered hanging from the ceiling in the unoccupied bottom flat of his house Saturday last.

Reports are that the man, who was recently released from prison, was re-

portedly being tormented by his family about the incident.

However, on Tuesday, the man’s mother, Debra Narine contacted Guyana Times saying that she has always been the one to take care of her son. She denied that the allegation was true.

Guyana Times understands that Beykarran was imprisoned for a year for driving a businessman’s vehicle without permission.

Reports are that after his release from prison, the young man was allegedly teased about incidents which might have occurred in prison.

On the day he committed suicide, he was said to be heavily intoxicated.

Reports are that sometime in the afternoon, he had excused himself to have a smoke outside.

After some time elapsed and he did not return, the family grew worried.

Family members eventually discovered him hanging from the ceiling of the bottom flat of the house around 20:00h.

news

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wednesday, january 20, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, January 20 – 14:00h-15:30h and Thursday, January 21 – 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, January 20 – 13:20h-14:50h and Thursday, January 21 –14:20-15:50h.

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

WEATHER TODAY Weather: Sunny conditions will prevail throughout the day with light rain showers in the late morning and early afternoon hours. Partly cloudy skies can be expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-easterly between 3.12 metres and 4.47 metres per second.

High Tide: 13:44h reaching a maximum height of 2.43 metres.

Low Tide: 06:06h and 18:48h reaching minimum heights of 0.94 metre and 0.83 metre.

Saturday, January 16, 2016

LOTTERY NUMBERS 05 07 25 18 11 27 12 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

Tuesday January 19, 2016

Daily Millions

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Draw De Line 01 07 08 12 13

Jagdeo outlines course of action to save sugar industry

By Kristen Macklingam

FERRY SCHEDULE

E

Wales Sugar Estate closure

18 20

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

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pposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has outlined avenues through which the sugar industry can be saved while addressing hundreds of sugar workers who will be on the breadline when the closure of the Wales Sugar Estate, West Bank Demerara (WBD), takes effect later this year.

The opposition leader is also calling for a public debate with the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition Government on its decision to close the estate.

The move to close the Estate will also adversely impact on the livelihood of thousands of persons living in Region Three (Essequibo Islands- West Demerara) as well as the economy of that region.

Jagdeo, during a meeting with the affected sugar workers on Tuesday at Wales Market Square, stated that the sugar industry remained one of the largest employers of the Guyanese population and was still one of the largest foreign currency earners.

The meeting was attended by hundreds of sugar workers who will be on the breadline when the closure takes effect later this year.

According to the former President, Guyana’s sugar industry cannot be looked at purely from a financial perspective as consideration has to be given to the economic aspect also.

“Many of the villages, their entire drainage and irrigation system rely on the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). Some areas – the rice farmers depend on the drainage and irrigation

by GuySuCo because we live on a low-lying coastland and a lot of canals for drainage and irrigation…the difference is it has many other impacts outside of the financial impact of the industry and this is why you have to keep sugar alive,” Jagdeo pointed out.

Hundreds of affected sugar workers and their families at the Wales meeting on Tuesday meeting with Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

He went on to say that if the sugar industry plummeted, the entire country would also ‘go down’ and the APNU/AFC Government simply did not understand this.

“We want the Government to come out too; why don’t they come out and face us in a debate? If we can’t debate in Parliament, let us come to Wales and face off in a debate. Let us come to Wales because then we wouldn’t have anyone to stop us from talking and then we wouldn’t have to wait until 2 am in the morning to get our views across.

Let us have a debate. If Nagamootoo talks all the time about how wonderful he is, let him come and face me here at Wales…,” the Opposition Leader challenged.

He believes many persons in the Administration “think they are hurting the sugar workers”; however, in making such decisions not only will the supporters of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP) be hurt but the general public.

According to Jagdeo, the Party stands firm against

the move to close the Wales Sugar Estate and will do whatever it takes to oppose such a decision.

“The intent of the Government had been laid bare some time back, but in spite of all that they say, in spite of the so-called Commission of Inquiry (CoI) that they had, they were hell bent on closing some of the estates in the sugar industry. And so it came to pass swiftly, Parliament has not even considered the CoI report, that report itself does not recommend any closure of any estate,” he explained to the gathering.

He reminded the workers that eight of the 10 Commissioners voted against any closure.

The Opposition Leader contended that it was the APNU/AFC coalition, which had commissioned such a

report and touted the claim that it would pave the way forward for the country’s failing sugar industry.

However, the Administration has moved “swiftly to disregard” the recommendations that the CoI which the Government of the day itself had put together by making a shocking announcement that it would be closing the Wales Sugar Estate, he said.

“The callous way in which they did it speaks a lot about this Government; they just did it through a press release from the Ministry of Agriculture. One would have thought that they would have come on the ground and talked to the workers and the cane farmers and the others if they had to pursue this path, but no… they have double standards, they talk about not being able to afford one thing, but pumping billions of dollars in another,” the former President noted.

On Monday, the Administration declared its intention of closing the Wales Sugar Estate by October this year. The canes which are planted by private cane farmers and GuySuCo would be transported to the Uitvlugt location, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

About 1700 workers are employed at the Wales Sugar Estate and factory, and they have now been put on the breadline with such a decision by the Government. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy.com)

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wednesday, january 20, 2016

Views General Editor: Michael Younge News Hotliine: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

What power sharing?

A

dded to all his portfolios, but not mentioned officially, is Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo's task to lead talks on behalf of the Government on “power sharing”.

Beginning in 2002, just before his passing, then PNC leader Desmond Hoyte claimed he accepted the mechanism of "power sharing" to address the challenges of governance in our ethnically fractured polity. This was a volte-face from his position when he inherited the presidency in 1985 from Forbes Burnham and peremptorily scuttled ongoing talks with the PPP on the same goal.

Starting from the 1960s when the PNC fissioned from the PPP, there had been periodic negotiations between the two parties that represented the two major voting blocs in Guyana. But each initiative before the 1985 version was shattered by the PNC's insistence on securing ultimate control within the “grand coalition” deemed necessary to effectuate "power sharing".

Given that history, it was not surprising the PPP has been sceptical of offers of "power sharing" coming from the coalition Government as a Trojan Horse to maintain control of the State. Thus when Mr Hoyte's successor Robert Corbin placed the mechanism on the agenda for talks between himself and then President Bharrat Jagdeo in 2003, the latter insisted “trust" has to be nurtured between the two parties before proceeding.

And there matters stood even as Mr Corbin's chosen successor, Brigadier David Granger maintained the rhetoric of "power sharing" as part of the PNC's and later APNU’s platform. Such offers, however, waned after 2011 when the election results demonstrated conclusively that the PNC, now rebranded as "A Partnership for National Unity" (APNU) stood a chance of winning the elections with just a little help.

Consequently, approaching the 2015 elections, it proposed a coalition with the Alliance For Change (AFC) for that “little help” and claimed this would fulfil the “power sharing” vision.

From that perspective, the experience of the coalition offers an opportunity to evaluate the mechanism Prime Minister Nagamootoo now espouses.

The governing coalition was preceded by a month-long negotiation between teams from APNU and the AFC and this culminated in the "Cummingsburg Accord", summarising the details of their "power sharing" arrangement. Contrary to what it had averred in the past, APNU was evidently abandoning power sharing as a "grand coalition" of the major political forces. It was now positing that a coalition with 51 per cent national support delivered "shared governance".

There were three major components to the Accord that reflected concerns of the junior partner, the AFC. In view of the universally acknowledged power of the Guyanese presidency, it was agreed that the AFC Prime Minister would chair the Cabinet and be in charge of governance. The allocation of seats in the National Assembly and the Cabinet were to be allocated on a 60:40 ratio, while the putatively powerful National Security Ministry would be awarded to the AFC leader.

Within a month, each of these agreements was breached.

The AFC PM could not chair the Cabinet, Mr Granger said, because it was "unconstitutional". But even if the two parties, top heavy with lawyers, overlooked this elephant in the room during negotiations, this objection was raised at the announcement of the Accord. Most recently, after a contretemps, Mr Nagamootoo is now said to be “co-chairing” the Cabinet, which is presumably “constitutional”.

After seven months when “governance” was given to Raphael Trotman, it is now claimed it is now in the Prime Minister’s bailiwick. On the 60/40 ministerial appointments, the Cabinet was doubled with the addition of "junior Ministers" to dilute AFC's influence, since only senior Ministers were "counted" in the apportionment. While the National Security portfolio was given to the AFC, it's critical “Citizenship” and Naturalisation functions were hived off.

It would appear that the PPP/C was prescient in demanding "trust" as a threshold issue on "power sharing".

It is our hope that in fulfilling this very important mandate of the APNU/AFC Government, the Prime Minister will deliver that trust rather than platitudes.

Muslims create history with the staging of the first-ever Jaloos (Motorcade) for Eid Milad Un Nabi celebrations in Guyana

Retaining retirees prevents the employment of youths Dear Editor, I make reference to an article captioned “Retirees getting ‘fat cat’ salaries – situation forcing political loyalty” that was carried in another section of the media on January 17, wherein Former Auditor General, Anand Goolsarran convincingly made the point, to which I wholesomely agree, that “the offering of contracts under lucrative terms to retired public and other officials” is an “unacceptable situation” that is “skewed in favour of political loyalty”.

Goolsarran went on to say that this practice, by the previous government, would have “sacrificed the hiring of technical and professional competence without any consideration of costs and the adverse effect it has on the morale of staff”. Further he stated that there are a number of persons who retire and return to work in the same position, but on “contractual terms on emoluments higher than their ending salaries when they were on the pensionable establishments”.

Editor, unless the practice that Goolsarran refers to is put under some control, one of the primary objectives of this government of finding jobs for the younger population of this country will be unrealised. Until such time that there is a significant expansion in industrialisation and service-oriented sectors, employment opportunities for the younger populations

will be rare.

Each year, almost 5000 persons graduate from the University of Guyana, with almost half graduating as never-employed. The supply of tertiary and vocational graduates is way higher than the demand for them; as a consequence those that cannot locate suitable jobs that’s commensurate with their skills and qualifications, will either have to take odd and menial jobs, or seek employment regionally and extra-regionally.

The point that Goolsarran made therefore must be taken in the context that retaining retirees prevent the employment of youths. I do not advocate that employees should be made redundant after a certain age, but where job creation is less than the supply of a skilled and qualified workforce there must be an outward movement of employees of a certain age to create an equilibrium between demand and supply.

Goolsarran made reference to Canada where there is no moratorium on retirement age. This is because unemployment is low, and there is a shortage of skills to meet demand in the service and manufacturing sectors in some provinces.

With an effective succession planning process, a successor to the retiree should have been in place, which cascades down to the final replacement in the chain of the hierarchy - the employment

of an unemployed. The failure to have an effective succession planning process is one of the reasons that contribute to the massive unemployment of qualified youths of this country.

Editor, Goolsarran’s criticism focused on this unacceptable practice that was carried out by the previous government. I endorse his criticism.

In the same manner that he criticised the previous government, I would recommend to Goolsarran that he peruses the report of GuySuCo’s Commission of Inquiry that was appointed by the current government.

In Section 4.3 of the CoI’s report captioned “Open Ended Retirement”, it states: “The practice of retiring employees at age 60 should be discontinued in favour of an open-ended, more flexible approach to retirement.

The practical considerations which drive this idea cannot be ignored. People are now living well past the Biblical 3-score years plus 10”.

Interestingly, the report further states: “Expanding life span sees the number of centenarians on the rise; examples of septuagenarians and octogenarians will successfully continuing their working lives in varying role from the bottom to the top…. right up to heads and chairmanships of organisations” The CoI is recommending that GuySuCo should exercise an “open-ended”, “flex-

ible” approach in retaining those who would have attained age 60, even if they are prepared to work until age 100. It’s obvious that this recommendation runs counter to Goolsarran’s justified criticism.

The Executive Summary of the said report states: “There remains and exists a number of competent managers committed to organisational goals. They need an environment for full expression of their training and skills wherein the nation benefits”.

Where would this environment in GuySuCo come from to facilitate the “full expression of their training and skills” if the opportunities are occupied by retirees who under normal circumstance will refrain from proceeding on retirement but hold their current jobs under existing salaries with significant top-ups from gratuity payments and pensions as currently obtains with several job holders?

The sugar company currently has in its employ septuagenarians and octogenarians; one of whom sits on the current Board, but holds a full-time executive position.

I would appreciate Goolsarran relating his position on an extremely sensitive matter relative to employment and the position adopted by GuySuCo’s CoI on the issue of retirees.

Yours faithfully, Rajendra Parmanand

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PNC can demonstrate maturity Freddie not accredited by UN or OAS and put the past behind

Dear Editor, I totally agree with Vishnu Bisram’s letter of 17 January 2016, under the caption, “There is no difference between PNC and the APNU/AFC Govt”. Guyana is, indeed, being ruled by PNC military and police cadre masquerading as a government of national unity!

This is a government dominated and driven by the strategies and tactics of the “old soldiers” and “old police” of Burnhamist ignominy – and they have kept intact and brought their mentality with them. It is time for the Guyanese population to get real and face facts. It was Forbes Burnham who, in 1955, split the racially integrated and cohesive People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and laid the foundations of the racial cleavage in Guyana’s society.

Had this split not occurred, our present national racial division – with its attendant rancour and divisiveness – would be absent. This writer is AfroGuyanese of Buxtonian ancestry and has conducted research into the AfroGuyanese psyche relative to interaction with IndoGuyanese. The core finding is this: Afro-Guyanese have a firmly embedded belief

that they are qualitatively superior to Indo-Guyanese and, therefore, should be the natural leaders and masters of Guyana.

There is no room in such a belief system for true national integration with a race considered one’s inferiors.

The package of behaviours being delivered to single-out sections of the Guyana populace is simply outward expressions of core PNC racist and dictatorial principles.

The present APNU/AFC administration should have realised that they would not be governing Guyana without significant votes from the Indo-Guyanese population. Their public behaviour indicates that this fact must have escaped their attention.

These Indo-Guyanese were prepared to forget the violence and discrimination they suffered during the reigns of past PNC governments and trusted what they knew would turn out to be an Afro-Guyanese dominated government. What does the APNU/AFC administration think is now occupying the thoughts and minds of these Indo-Guyanese?

The token Indo-Guyanese that decorate the façade of the APNU/AFC government

should realise that they are but of cosmetic value and importance. The truth is that both Indo-Guyanese and Afro-Guyanese wear cosmetic smiles and display token actions of endearment as we tolerate each other during social and professional interactions.

It is time for both Indo-Guyanese and AfroGuyanese to end this hypocrisy and get real! It is time for the PNC leadership to bring to an end what they started in 1955. Can they do this?

They can certainly begin to lead the way by taking sincere public and dramatic actions that demonstrate magnanimity, and that signals this message specifically to the Indo-Guyanese population: Here is a PNC leadership that wants to put the past behind us and move forward in a spirit of true racial harmony and reconciliation.

The roots of race hate are embedded in hearts and minds, and their elimination requires a massive “inside job”. The transformation of the human mind lies in the field of Spirituality – not religion, social engineering or, in fact, in any other field.

Sincerely, Wilbert M Stephenson

Dear Editor, Reliable sources have confirmed what has long been suspected that controversial columnist Freddie Kissoon has not been accredited by the Organisation of American States (OAS) and or the United Nations (UN) to conduct opinion polls.

Freddie Kissoon is also rejected as a consultant, political analyst, advisor and columnist by the UN and OAS and other international organizations. Information out of CARICOM Secretariat also confirms that Freddie Kissoon is not used as a consultant, advisor, pollster, speech writer, reporter, or analyst. Freddie is in no way associated with CARICOM, OAS or UN and sources say those bodies want nothing to do with him.

Reputable sources say the information, writings and analysis provided by Freddie Kissoon are not reliable and cannot be trusted. In his New Year day column (2016), Freddie admitted to lying in his columns. The international organisations have affirmed that Kissoon manufactures data and information and writes fake news to discredit and tarnish the reputation of eminent individuals. Very few of Kissoon’s thousands of claims have been verified by independent experts leading to the inevitable conclusion that he does not write truthfully or conduct accurate polls. Freddie

had claimed his poll in 1992 showed PNC as “a ten percent party” and that the WPA would win the election.

Freddie claimed WPA would get all the African and mixed votes. The WPA got less than 2 per cent of the votes and PNC 42 per cent, including almost all the African and Mixed votes. Freddie claimed his poll showed PPP would not win the 1992 election using it to make an argument against Dr Jagan being the Presidential candidate for a PCD alliance. The PPP received 53 per cent of the votes, including almost the Indian votes, and Dr Jagan became the first legally elected President of the nation incurring the wrath of Kissoon and some leaders of WPA. Since then, Freddie had been discredited as a pollster and political analyst for manufacturing data and not being objective in his commentaries.

The late Sheila Holder had distanced herself from Freddie Kissoon when he attributed (mis) information (in his columns) about accredited OAS pollsters and consultants as coming from her that turned out to be inaccurate. Kissoon launched a scathing attack on Ms. Holder because she refused to support his lies. Ms. Holder had confirmed that Freddie Kissoon was not accepted as a pollster or analyst by the OAS. The Deputy Secretary General of the OAS Albert

Ramdin confirmed Freddie lied, and he reprimanded Freddie who did not take kindly to Ramdin’s rebuke.

What is new about Freddie?

Freddie has attacked everyone who has critiqued him.

Freddie is accepted by Dick Morris (aka Big Dick for what were known as the “Dickean Polls” saying the AFC would win the 2006 and 2011). Moses Nagamootoo described the 2006 Dick Morris findings as “the dick poll” and that is how they are known in Guyana and the greater Caribbean region.

Freddie praised those Dick polls although the projected findings of the Dick polls were miles away from the actual election outcomes.

Any polling or analysis critical of PPP or Indians is praised by Freddie. Any poll showing PPP would win an election is attacked by Freddie. Big Dick is expected in Guyana to conduct polls for the local government elections; Freddie’s face has lit up since election date was announced more than a month ago. Freddie is excited to see Big Dick.

In the meanwhile, I am petitioning the OAS, UN, and CARICOM to reconsider their total rejection of Freddie Kissoon once he agrees to write honestly and accurately and stop manufacturing data.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

City Hall really appreciates what it will take to make Georgetown a green city?

Dear Editor, There has been a lot of talk by the Georgetown City Council recently about making our capital city a green city. But is it anything more than just that? Talk? I have hardly seen any real initiatives in this direction. Of course there has been the posting of monstrous billboards all over the city with green city catchphrases but with the only thing being green about that is the millions of dollars that the city has wasted on sloganeering.

Then there has been the poorly attended Green Conference and Expo which turned out to be little more

than a free concert, along with the distribution of freebies such as tee shirts, bags etc, again a tremendous cost to the City. But does anyone at City Hall really appreciate what it will take to make Georgetown a green city?

Guyana and Georgetown’s energy infrastructure such as those generators located in Kingston is ripe for improvement.

Most of our electricity is generated in dirty fossil fuel power plants, which pump greenhouse gases into the air and contribute to climate change.

Our electricity is then distributed through thou-

sands of miles of inefficient and unreliable power lines.

Transforming our outdated electricity grid into a cleaner, cheaper, and more reliable energy system would be a critical step towards making our capital a green city.

Then there is the city’s transportation infrastructure. There are minibuses zipping along our roadways all day and night long joined by an unprecedented number of private cars traversing the roads. This is now the fastest-growing source of greenhouse gas emissions.

Why is the council not making Georgetown more biking- and walking-friend-

ly? The Mayor and Town Clerk should get out of their fancy vehicles and lead by example by riding to and from work if they are sincere about this initiative.

And then there is the design of our buildings, which are no longer being de-

signed for natural ventilation with Demerara shuttered window, etc but rather large concrete edifices that rely on dirty energy sources for their power and cooling needs.

One just has to look at City Hall and one can see

all the air conditioners that have been tacked on to this glorious old building.

It is time for City Hall to stop talking the talk and start walking the walk.

Sincerely, Nadine Jerrick

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Foundation

Quirky discipline rules that work – tired of nagging and scolding? Try these surprising solutions

By Barbara Rowley

I

’ve made a lot of bad rules in the decade I’ve been a mom, from irrational threats (“No graham crackers in the house ever again if you eat them in the living room even one more time”) to forbidding human nature (“You may not fight with your sister”). But occasionally I’ve come up with rules that work better than I’d ever contemplated.

These made-up rules have an internal logic that defies easy categorisation, but their clarity and enforceability make them work. Several of them are not, technically, rules at all, but declarations of policy or fact. And they’re all easy to remember. A few personal favourites, plus those of other moms:

work, asking me favours and waiting for me to be done, I came up with a rule that takes into account two important facts about children: They actually want to be with you as much as possible.

You can’t force them to help you in any way that is truly helpful.

I played fact one against fact two and told her that she didn’t

the end of the day.” It won’t happen. But if you flip the problem and make a rule about you instead of telling everyone what they have to do, it all falls neatly – and miraculously – into place.

When this occurred to me, back when my oldest was six and my youngest was nearly two, I announced to Anna and Taylor that

Rule #3: You get what you get, and you don’t throw a fit Goal: No more haggling – over which sandwich has more jam or who gets their milk in the prized red cup and who in the ‘bad’ green, or which cast member of Blue’s Clues adorns whose paper plate

Rule #1: You can’t be in the room when I’m working unless you work, too Goal: Get your child to help, or stop bugging you, while you do chores

It might seem odd, but I don’t mind doing laundry, cleaning floors or really any kind of housework.

But I do mind my children, oblivious to the fact that my arms are full of their underwear, asking me to find their missing doll shoe or do a puzzle with them. Until recently, this was a source of great frustration, especially when our household grew to five children when my husband, Taylor, and I became temporary foster parents for two months.

I tried to explain to my expanded brood that if they helped me fold laundry, we could do something together sooner. But they knew I’d be available anyway if I finished folding myself, so the argument wasn’t compelling.

And then one day, as my oldest foster daughter sat and watched me

alising that if things dragged past 8:00 he’d have to face putting both girls to sleep himself, became more helpful. Anna’s now 11, and my hours have been extended, but the idea that I’m not endlessly available has been preserved and integrated into our family routine.

Why it works: You’re not telling anyone else what to do. The rule is for you, so you have only yourself to blame if it’s not enforced.

have to help me but couldn’t just sit and watch. She had to go elsewhere. Given a choice between being with me and folding laundry or not being with me at all, she took option one.

Why it works: I didn’t care which she chose. And it was her choice, so it gave her control even as it took it away.

Rule #2: I don’t work past 8 pm Goal: Regular bedtimes and time off for you

You can’t just announce a rule to your husband and children that says, “Bedtime has to go really smoothly so I can get a break at

the Department of Labour had just created a new rule and I was no longer allowed to do any kind of mom jobs past 8:00 in the evening.

I would gladly read books, play games, listen to stories of everyone’s day or give baths – the whole mother package – before then. Then I held firm – I acted as if it were out of my hands. Sort of like Cinderella and midnight.

Suddenly, my six-year-old (and my husband) developed a new consciousness of time. My daughter actually rushed to get ready for bed just after dinner so that we could have lots of books and time together before I was “off”. My husband, re-

My friend Joyce, Director of our town’s preschool, told us about this terrific rule, now repeated by everyone I know on playgrounds and at home. Not only does it have a boppy rhythm that makes it fun to say, but it does good old “Life isn’t fair” one better by spelling out both the essential truth of life’s arbitrary inequities and the only acceptable response to the world’s unfairness: You don’t throw a fit.

When I first heard this, I was sceptical. It seemed too simple. But to my utter surprise, not only did it do the trick, but children seemed to rally around it almost with relief.

They must have seen that if it applied to them today, it might apply to someone else tomorrow.

Why it works: It’s irrefutable – it almost has the ring of runic or prehistoric truth to it – and rather than focusing on an abstract notion like “fairness,” it speaks directly to the situation at hand. (Excerpt from parenting.com)

to be continued

Parenting How influential are we as parents?

M

y husband and I aren’t perfect, but we try to set the best examples that we can. Often, though, it seems like our kids aren’t paying attention.

Is our behaviour really that influential? – Jess Whether it’s obvious or not, your kids are always watching and learning from you – especially when they’re young and trying to figure out gender roles, and the roles that their parents, grandparents, and other authority figures play in their lives. During this time, it’s not uncommon for kids to role-play “Mommy” or “Daddy” and model behaviours they’ve seen before.

But if you worry about your children watching (and copying) your every move, relax. Just because kids are watching you doesn’t mean you have to do the right thing all the time.

In fact, letting your kids see your flaws and weaknesses shows them that no one – not even Mommy or Daddy – is perfect.

The key is to set a good example by allowing them to see you cope with these challenges in a healthy way. So ask yourself, how do you handle stress?

Disappointment? Failure?

An argument with a friend?

If you behave in ways that you’d rather your kids not copy, you might consider trying to improve your coping skills.

When striving to be a better role model, try to develop traits that you’d like your kids to have: respect, friendliness, honesty, kindness, generosity, and tolerance. Maintain healthy habits, like exercising, eating nutritious meals, and not smoking.

It’s also important to expose your kids to positive male and female role models. This is especially important in single-parent households where a mother or father figure might be absent. Remember that role models aren’t just parents or grandparents: they’re also other family members, teachers, coaches, and older friends. All of these people can have a lasting impact on a child’s life. (Kidshealth)

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wednesday, january 20, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Gaskin urges governmental takeover of Berbice Bridge – to lower economic pressure on commuters

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olitical and economic commentator Ramon Gaskin is calling on Government to move to take full ownership of the Berbice River Bridge Company Inc (BBCI), so that the economic burden on Guyanese living in that area could be eased, once and for all.

Government lowered the tolls at the Berbice Bridge at the beginning of the year after lengthy negotiations with shareholders; however, Gaskin said while that was a good move, persons travelling to and from the West Coast of Berbice were still feeling an economic strain.

This, he said, could only be remedied if Government moved to take full ownership.

“Government should take back the Bridge from the people who now own it.

They should pay them off and take back the Bridge because a public asset like that in a public infrastructure system cannot be owned and controlled by the private people,” Gaskin told <<<Guyana Times>>>.

His comments came even as concerns continued to

Ramon Gaskin

mount over Government’s decision to continue the operation of the river taxis, although the tolls for the Bridge have been lowered.

The drivers of Route 50 minibuses recently met with both Ministers of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson and Annette Ferguson about the hardships they face with the continued operation of the river taxis.

The Ministers said while they understood the complaints of the drivers, they could not simply discontin-

ue the operation of the river service, since it still benefitted a wide cross-section of Guyanese, including the elderly and schoolchildren.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had made a similar suggestion that the Government buy out the current Bridge owners a few months ago during an exclusive interview with this publication. He said his Party, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) would support any move by Government to take ownership of the Berbice River Bridge, stressing that the Party would support anything that benefitted citizens.

He suggested that the Administration purchase the necessary shares to take ownership of the entity.

The equity for the Bridge is $400 million. This is the sale of an ownership interest to raise funds for business purposes. The remainder was financed by debentures.

The former President said Government could put in place a different structure which could allow for the equity to be increased, which

Accepting crime situation will make Granger “look bad” – Rohee

I

n response to President David Granger’s comment last week that the war on crime is being won, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Clement Rohee said he would not expect the Head of State to say anything otherwise.

Speaking at the Party’s weekly press briefing Monday, Rohee, who is also a former Minister of Home Affairs, pointed out that while in the opposition, Granger had touted “solutions” to the country’s then

PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee

crime situation and as such, he cannot acknowledge the current state of affairs as it relates to crime since it will make him look bad.

“At least I don’t expect him to be saying that the crime situation is out of control because he will look bad.

I don’t expect him to be saying that Ramjattan is failing like Scott or Broomes because he will look bad again and I don’t expect him to be saying that the

President David Granger

Commissioner of Police is failing also because again he will look bad. I don’t think any President wants to look bad by pointing to the shortcomings or defects and deficiencies of the administration,” the General Secretary stated.

Last Wednesday, the Head of State praised the Guyana Police Force for solving several high profile cases of recent. Among the many factors attributed to this success, President Granger highlighted the fact that the Force’s Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has been strengthened.

“Even though we can’t prevent crimes from occurring in all the cases, we could detect those crimes and bring those people to justice very quickly and that has been one of the achievements of the Police Force over recent months… So I would say the war on crimes is being won and I’m very pleased with what the Police Force has been doing,” he

told reporters.

However, according to the former Home Affairs Minister, the reality of the situation is far from what the President is boasting about. In fact he said, the current crime situation is troubling: “The situation is very troubling and I don’t think anyone is going to be swayed by the assurances that are being given by the Head of State or the subject Minister or the Commissioner of Police that crime is under control because it is not.”

In December last year, Government had launched Operation Dragnet, which is said to be its “comprehensive plan” to tackle both internal and external security threats.

President Granger had also stated recently that the establishment of the National Security Committee, which he currently heads, allows him to meet with the Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo on a weekly basis to discuss the country’s security sector and look at ways to strengthen the Police Force.

However, despite Government’s efforts, there have been criticisms from various sections of society on the rising rate of criminal activities. Guyana recorded a staggering nine murders within the first nine days of the New Year, four of which were committed on January 1.

Berbice Bridge Toll Booth

could see the equity doubling thus providing funds to pay bondholders and the preference shareholder, which is the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).

He noted that Berbice businesspersons could also invest in the project which would cause the equity to be reduced and immediately cut some of the overhead expenses of the BBCI. That, he added, will be a win-win situation for all, including Government, investors, and users of the Berbice Bridge.

“This will maintain support for Public-Private Partnership and you have a fair solution for everyone and people own part of the Bridge and this is perfectly feasible and I am sure people will want to do something along those lines, even

the current equity holders of the bridge.”

After months of debate and negotiations between Government and the company, Government was able to fulfil its promise of reduced fares to cross the Berbice Bridge.

BBCI Chairman Omadat Samaroo said the tolls were reduced at the stroke of midnight on January 1, minutes after Government’s subsidy “kicked in”.

Government prior to its ascension to office had promised a toll reduction, but seemingly did not take into consideration the numerous legal and other issues involving such a move.

As such, there was much debate between the Bridge Company, its shareholders and the Government over

the issue.

In August 2015, the BBCI had rejected Government’s offer of financial subsidies to cover the loss in tolls, arguing that it could be plunged into bankruptcy since they were insufficient to offset its debts.

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

This back-and-forth continued until the BBCI announced it would accept Government’s $40 million subsidy offer.

Prior to reaching the agreement, bondholders of BBCI were asked to accept the lowering of interest rates and the significant extension of the repayment period on their investment in order to facilitate the reduction of tolls. This would have resulted in bondholders suffering losses on their multimillion-dollar investment.

The new tolls have seen private and hire cars, along with minibuses, now paying $1900 compared to the $2200 they were required to pay to cross the bridge. Other types of vehicles were given a reduction of 10 per cent.

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wednesday, january 20, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Eyew tness

Westford, Cummings case

Trial to begin in Magistrate’s Court Killing…

M agistrate Fabayo Azore on Tuesday overruled the submission of the defence in the fraud case involving former Public Service Minister, Dr Jennifer Westford and her assistant, Margaret Cummings stating that the Magistrates’ Courts had no jurisdiction to deal with executive abuse of power in a fraud case.

Neil Boston, one of the Attorneys representing both Westford and Cummings, last November had stated that instituting criminal charges against his clients would breach an amnes-

Jennifer Westford

ty that Minister of State Joseph Harmon had granted publicly during a news conference.

Boston had contended that the Minister of State had announced an amnesty for persons in possession of State assets which was brought to light in a press conference aired on HGPTV in June of 2015.

As such, the Attorney claimed that the executive was misusing the court process which will cause the defence to apply for the matters to be stayed indefinitely for abuse of process.

The former Minister was placed on $200,000 bail on each of the four charges instituted, and the former Chief Personnel Officer

was placed on $300,000 bail on each of the four charges against her when they first appeared in court.

The 54-year-old Westford, of Victoria Avenue, Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD) has denied the four counts of attempting to commit a felony, while the 36-year-old Cummings, of Lot 709 Section A, Diamond Housing Scheme, EBD, has also denied the four counts of forgery levelled against her.

Westford remains on $800,000 bail, while Cummings is on $1.2 million bail.

Fish vendor slapped with larceny charge

A

fish vendor on Tuesday appeared before Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer a to larceny charge.

Nathaniel Biswanauth denied the charge which alleged that on December 27, 2015 he stole $190,000 from Bertnim Alleyne, the virtual complainant (VC).

The court heard that on the day in question, the VC, a hire car driver, picked up the defendant who allegedly robbed him.

In court Tuesday the Prosecution raised no objections to bail and as such the defendant was released on $50,000 bail.

The Magistrate adjourned the case for February 12.

Nathaniel Biswanauth

Wife abuser jailed for 36 months

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man was on Tuesday jailed when he appeared before Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged for wounding his reputed wife.

Andre Robertson, 40, of Lot 4669 Roxanne Burnham Gardens, South Georgetown, admitted that on October 23, 2015 he attacked his reputed wife Denise Fredericks with intent to maim, disable and disfigure her.

Andre Robertson

Robertson said that on day of the incident he attacked his wife with a cutlass, causing her to sustain chops to her head, face and hands after which he stabbed himself.

Reports are that Fredericks, a newspaper vendor, was returning from a newspaper outlet where she had just bought newspaper to sell for the day when Robertson approached her, whipped out a cutlass and

fired chops at her.

The court heard that subsequent to the incident Robertson stabbed himself in the abdomen and cut his throat.

Both parties were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH).

In court Tuesday Magistrate Azore jailed Robertson for 36 months.

Robertson was previously jailed for 2 months in 2014 for a similar offence.

H

… a community

ow does a government say it’s concerned about “ordinary people” and their welfare and yet the very next day, places 1700 of them on the streets with begging bowls? But maybe with practice such duplicity gets easier, no? After all, just a few months ago the same government fired 1972 mostly Amerindian youths from the Community Service Organisation.

They probably figured when making the decision to shut down the entire Wales Sugar plantation, “Ah well, it’s ONLY 1700 being fired this time!” Ignoring, of course, that each of these persons are supporting at least four other persons – a total of 8500 mouths that’ll go hungry. Do these people know what goes on in these sugar estates? There’s absolutely no other source of employment for these unskilled people.

When the talk of closing estates had first been mooted, there were suggestions to parcel out lands to the workers so they could maybe sustain themselves through peasant farming. Like the neighbouring communities in Canals # 1 and 2. Suddenly alternative employment is off the agenda: “You’re on your own, folks!!”

It’s rather cruel to hold out hope to workers that they’ll possibly find employment at Uitvlugt! Have these office-bound mandarins even looked at a map of the area? One estate’s up the Demerara River while the other’s on the Atlantic Coast. And it takes a heck of a lot of travelling for the twain to meet.

And the same constraint puts a lie to the promise of “farmers’ cane” being transported to Uitvlugt. Ain’t no canal connecting the two estates – for the very good reason there’s a huge conservancy between them. This is not like LBI and Enmore. Canes will have to be transported by tractor/trailers – using the single congested public roadway that’s already past capacity.

And if they want to transport canes in the night – there’s still the cost of the hundreds of tractors that’ll be needed – plus filling them up with diesel. All of this adds to the cost of production – which is already way too high at Uitvlugt.

What we’re going to suggest to this government is that while sugar cane mightn’t be feasible at Wales they cannot just abandon all those prime agricultural lands that’s drained and irrigated. They should go back to their original plan – parcel out the land in 15-acre plots and invite some food corporations to set up factories to process crops that make economic sense because they’re in demand. Unlike sugar.

We’re not saying that it’s going to be easy, but common humanity deserves at least some alternative livelihood be found for these poor people.

Aren’t we our brothers’ keeper?

…confidence in police

The story told by Khurshid Sattaur’s son is scary. But it’s even scarier against the background of the SOCU high speed chase of two innocent souls that ended in three persons killed. Here it was, a young man is driving along minding his own business – and suddenly a heavily tinted SUV begins to tail him. It follows him through traffic lights and side streets – pulling alongside and then dropping back.

Put yourself in the shoes of this young man, whose high profile father’s recently been publicly humiliated by having his computer and IPad taken away by the police – in an atmosphere where charges of “theft” and “corruption” were flying fast and furious. And you’d be forgiven for fearing for your lives.

It was only after a long period when there were attempts to force the young man off the road – and he had to take evasive measures - that the driver deigned to roll down a window and expose herself as a policewoman.

The young man immediately drove to the police station – WHERE HE WAS CHARGED FOR DANGEROUS DRIVING!!

Only in Guyana!

…hinterland peace

We now find out that the “official account” of Venezuelans landing at Kaikan was all concocted.

Our officials should remember what happened to the boy who cried “wolf”.

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

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wednesday, january 20, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Small contractors must get a “piece of the pie” – Harmon

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long-dormant section of the Laws of Guyana states that 20 per cent of all contracts must be given to small contractors on an annual basis, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon has revealed.

The Minister made this revelation on Monday when he met with the executives of the General Contractors Association of Guyana (GCAG) at the Ministry of the Presidency.

Harmon explained that the law was never activated and indicated that he would collaborate with Business Minister Dominic Gaskin and Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson to activate it soon. The Minister is adamant that this move will be one way of ensuring that small contractors “get a piece of the pie”. He stressed that “if the country gives out $10 billion in contracts per

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, along with GCAG President Aubrey Jones, GCAG Vice President Linden Fyffe and others

year, 20 per cent of that should go to small contractors”.

Minister Harmon also noted that 20 per cent was a sizeable portion of contracts signed every year, and urged the GCAG to insist on that measure in addition to

other recommendations and policies the Association may want to propose, on behalf of the contractors.

He further declared that 2016 was the year the Government of Guyana would rebalance pro-

cedures before contracts were awarded.

According to Harmon, Government has begun to take a “fresh look” at the qualifications of contractors for jobs. He noted too that policy decisions on National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) compliance would soon be made.

“In the next budget, the Minister of Finance will announce certain restructuring where NIS is concerned and where taxation is concerned that will basically try to have everybody brought into a tax net that will allow you to make sure you get your GRA compliance and these other compliances much quicker,” he told the GCAG executives.

Additionally, the Business and Public Infrastructure Ministers have been given clear mandates to ensure conferences were facilitat-

ed for new contractors.

Meanwhile, the GCAG executives told the Minister of State that the Association believed it was time to move the construction industry “back in place”.

GCAG mentioned that its skills, ambition, dedication and mentorship were the available driving forces for this to be achieved.

The Association is also calling for a fund or mechanisms to be set up to lend financial support to small contractors in order to propel their businesses.

Minister Harmon shared that he was pleased with the efforts of GCAG thus far, as he believed that the Association could contribute to ensuring that standards prevail in the contracting industry. He is resolute that contracting standards are important as they will help determine how the country progresses.

Region 2 RDC pledges support to suicide fight

– Working Suicide Group commences work with youths and parents The regulation, distribution, storage and sale of pesticides were also discussed at the forum. On Monday eve-

School Welfare Officer Haimraj Hamandeo

Dr Ranjeev Singh

By Indrawattie Natram

W

ith the high number of suicides recorded in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Regional Chairman, Daveanand Ramdatt said the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) has noted with deep concern the upsurge of attempted suicide since 2016 began and has pledged it’s support in the fight to minimise the occurrence through informative and educational sessions.

Ramdatt during an interview with Guyana Times said a proposed budget was submitted to the Regional Executive Officer, Rupert Hopkinson for inclusion in the 2016 budget to tackle this issue. He explained that the budget proposed will assist the Region’s working group in addressing suicide by conducting training and a number of programmes that will benefit the fight against suicide: “The RDC is deeply saddened by the scourge of suicide and extend its condolences to those relatives and friends who’ve lost their loved ones and are affected by the numerous cases of attempted suicides; five deaths in Region 2 for 2016 is worrying,” Ramdatt said. Compounding the issue the Chairman said the negative effects of the rice industry is creating much frustration amongst the populace, adding that the present situation in the rice industry has created a downturn in the region’s economy.

In addition, Ramdatt said since he took office in 2015, it was recognised that Region Two has a history of numerous deaths via suicide, therefore a

Regional Chairman Devanand Ramdatt

“Regional Conversation” was hosted in August which led to “A Working Group” comprising of key personnel from various sections of society being established.

The group, headed by Dr Ranjeev Singh and has so far commenced work in various secondary schools reaching out to students and also parents from the various PTA’s.

Ramdatt said based on the Regional Conversation conducted by the Working Group, suggestions were made for a scientific study/assessment to be conducted within the region identifying the root causes of suicide. Additionally, coming out of that session were a number of recommendations to address suicide. Among the recommendations were the hosting of parenting forums and more community-based outreaches, a review of the programmes with the aim of strengthening the education system/schools’ curriculum delivery.

He also noted that faithbased organisations, youth, women, community-based organisations, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders should do more to actively address suicide.

ning, officials from the RDC and members of the Working Group hosted a television programme highlighting efforts

made by the RDC to tackle suicide in the region.

Also on that programme, the signs/symptoms of the mental health issue were discussed by the Region’s physiol-

ogist, Haimraj Hamandeo.

Hamandeo, presently a senior school welfare officer, is willing to offer his support and expertise to anyone in need of counselling.

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wednesday, january 20, 2016

News

Missing Sophia man found dead in trench F

amily members of a missing Sophia, Georgetown, man confirmed their worst fears Tuesday morning after his partially decomposed body was fished out a short distance from his home.

The dead man has been identified as Akeem Culley, 25, called Jamal, a miner of North Sophia. The man’s body was discovered in a trench called “Forty Foot” by a resident on the nearby reserved lands.

According to reports, Culley had been missing for about three weeks after four men stormed his house and took him away. He was never seen or heard from so his reputed wife, Kendyce Duncan, lodged a report with the police.

Speaking with Guyana Times the woman stated that she last saw her partner of five months on the night of December 29, 2015. She recalled that around 01:00h, she was woken by calls from her neighbour (also named Akeem) who requested she open the door since he had something to tell her.

The woman said she complied and upon opening the front door, she was con-

Dead, Akeem Culley

fronted by four armed and masked men, all of whom were dressed in black. “I didn’t see (my neighbour), all I see was all these handguns point to my face. So I started to back-up and they just barge in… Akeem was in the bedroom and he get up same time and the men hold on pon he and start pull he outside,” Duncan related.

She went on to say that after the men dragged Culley out of the house, she heard him cry out “ah” and immediately after, two gun-

shots were fired. “I run out, thinking that he get shoot and lying outside but when I go, I didn’t see he or anybody,” the woman recounted.

Duncan said she reported the incident to the police and ranks on patrol came to the area and they conducted a search but came up empty handed. She added that later that morning, she went to the station and made a formal complaint about the incident. The police was treating the case as an abduction.

However, about a week after, Duncan said persons had informed her that they were getting foul scent from the “Forty Foot” and as such she used to make daily checks to see if they would find anything.

“Now (Tuesday) morning, when I getting ready for work, a man said something raise up in “Forty Foot” and I should go check to see if is Akeem… When I reach there, I recognise the red and white American Eagle boxer on the body because that’s what he had on the night when they take him away so I call the police and we family,” she further related.

According to Duncan, the man’s skull was showing. She added too that his feet bore a gunshot wound while his stomach had a stab wound.

Asked by this newspaper whether Culley had any issues with anyone, Duncan recalled that the Monday before his disappearance, some men from North Sophia had alleged that he along with her brother and brother-inlaw stole a motorcycle.

The woman said that at the time Culley was not at home and when she called him, he claimed that he was at his mother. “I tell he don’t come home cause these people gon beat yuh up but he turn and say that he coming, he gotta clear his name because he aint thief no motorbike,” she added.

He went home around midday on December 29.

Furthermore, Duncan said over the past few weeks, the police had held several persons for Culley’s disappearance including the owner of the alleged stolen motorcycle and her neighbour, Akeem, both of whom were released due to lack of evidence. She explained that her neighbour said he was forced by the gunmen to get her to open the door on the night in question.

Water boy and powerful boss

S

atiricus was upset at the way his favourite paper was claiming his favourite politician, the Nagga Man, was being “emasculated”. Satiricus didn’t know what the word meant – so he looked it up and discovered it was the same thing his father used to do to the bulls on the farm that he didn’t want to bother the cows. Those bulls began to act real weird!

Anyhow Satiricus was happy Nagga Man’s water boy, Iman, put the rumours to rest. In fact Iman revealed that Nagga Man hasn’t not only not been emasculated, he’d been given a whole lot of other powers that made him even more a man. A bigger man. And of course, totally coincidentally Iman would also be a bigger man by reflection. More water to carry.

The biggest “bigging up” was to place Nagga Man in charge of “Info”. This of course was a big boost – since way back in 1992, he’d been given the same job by his hero Hagan. Just to have the job Hagan had given him was worth more than silver and gold – not to mention the power to nominate Cabinet Ministers, which had been promised him.

With the power over Info, Nagga Man could now harangue even younger cub reporters when the new Budget was being presented. Iman could also leak stuff to the blogosphere. Parliamentary “leadership” was another “blue pill” given to increase Nagga Man’s manhood. Never mind every Prime Minister before him had played that ceremonial role and the Chief Whip held the real power.

Nagga Man was also now “co-chairing” the cabinet meetings. Pressie had determined that “chairing” was unconstitutional but “co-chairing” was not. Nagga Man was also in charge of Constitutional change and had promised Pressie the first change would be to confirm that “co-chairing” actually was better than “chairing”.

“And now I hope Nagga Man will be seen as the most powerful man in the Cabinet,” thought Satiricus. “And Iman is seen as the most powerful water boy”.

Drone buzzes GDF helicopter T

he Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has expressed grave concerns over the frequent use of drones in the airspace and

not say when the incident occurred or how many occupants were in the helicopter at the time, it was disclosed that the helicopter was mak-

lic refrain from operating such devices in and around Base Camp Ayanganna and all other Military Bases so as to avoid any accidents.

the dangers it poses, following a recent incident involving an army helicopter.

According to a statement from the military, the aircraft – GDF 1 – averted what could have been a tragic occurrence, when the pilot skilfully manoeuvred a safe landing at Base Camp Ayanganna after it was “buzzed” by a drone.

While the statement did

ing its final approach to Camp Ayanganna, in the vicinity of Queen’s College and the National Park.

“It was reported by the Pilot that the drone flew dangerously close to the helicopter and also attempted to follow the aircraft,” the statement said.

According to the army, it is recommended that the pub-

“The Guyana Defence Force has noted with concern the frequency of Drones being flown in Georgetown, as well as other parts of the country, and would like to reiterate that these devices can cause serious if not fatal accidents especially when they are being operated in the airspace allocated to low flying aircraft,” the army further stated.

wednesday, january 20, 2016

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News

Bartica Stelling being redesigned

A blueprint of the redesigned Bartica Stelling

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orks have commenced to deliver to the residents of Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) a redesigned Stelling, which is expected to brighten the community’s waterfront. Bartica is one of the communities targeted for township status.

Marclene Merchant, General Manager of the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) of the Public Infrastructure Ministry, in an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA), indicated that phase two of the project was catered for in

the 2016 National Budget to the value of $300 million.

She added that phase two would see the redesign of the entire Stelling which would result in a two-storey building.

“The ground floor will house the T&HD staff, a canteen and a waiting lounge for passengers … the upper flat will have offices that will be rented out to business people from the area,” Merchant explained.

The new Stelling will be outfitted with floating ramps for speedboats that operate the Bartica-Parika route, and the building will be

placed on concrete decking.

Additionally, a floating link span ramp, similar to that which exists at Supenaam Stelling, will be installed to provide for side loading.

“The link span ramp will be dropped onto the vessel rather than using stages … we have very heavy trucks traversing Parika-Bartica and very often we have problems with stages breaking,” Merchant explained.

Phase one of the project saw $30.6 million being spent to replace the fender/ mooring system, cluster piles and the dilapidated decking and rotten beams.

LGE 2016

PPP wants Supplementary Voters’ List, info on Nominations Day

A

s the long-overdue Local Government Elections draw closer, pressure is mounting on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to get its act together so as to prevent jeopardising the polls.

On Tuesday, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) said it was “deeply concerned” that fourteen days after the Claims and Objections period ended GECOM is still to post the Supplementary Voters’ Lists or make them available to the political parties whose symbols have been submitted.

The PPP in a statement said it wanted GECOM to make known why these lists have not yet been made available.

“The PPP is further concerned that GECOM has not provided the political parties nor has it publicly notified (of) the number and locations of the polling stations for each of the Local Authority Areas.

This information should have been made available since December 1, 2015.

In addition, GECOM has not made known any information nor issued and published the necessary order with respect to Nominations Day. And although the date of January 26, 2016 is well known, there is conflicting information with respect to the places and times for the submission of nominations by the political parties,” the PPP said The party accused GECOM of refusing to publish the names of the clerks

11

Local Government Elections were last held in Guyana more than two decades ago

and clerical assistants that have been appointed to each of the offices of the Returning Officers.

Already the commission has published the names of the Returning Officers.

“The PPP finds it interesting that to date GECOM is yet to recruit competent and qualified staff to fill certain vacancies to fulfil certain functions on elections day.

The Party is disappointed that the names of the Ballot Officers who will fulfil certain functions on the day of voting by the Disciplined Services are not yet publicly known.

The Party’s disappointment is further compounded by the fact that no list showing the names of the Disciplined Services list has been made public so far,” the statement said.

It said that in face of these “deficiencies and inadequacies”, GECOM must act expeditiously on these matters to avoid the Local Government Elections being jeopardised.

On Monday, Chief Elections Officer Keith

Lowenfield said the commission was facing challenges with getting E-Day staff in some key electoral districts, particularly in Regions Two, Four and Six. “We do at this point, continue to have a shortfall in the numbers, particularly in the areas we advertised over last weekend, specifically Georgetown and for the nine NDCs on the East Coast, in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) in some specific local authority areas and also in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne),” Lowenfield stated.

However, GECOM Chairman Dr Steve Surujbally is confident the vacancies will be filled in time for the March 18, 2016 elections.

“The Secretariat and the Commission, though we cannot issue a guarantee, we are very willing to believe we will have a full complement and even overage come E-Day, I have no doubts about that whatsoever,” Dr Surujbally said.

El Niño conditions

Farmers affected by low water level in conservancies, canals

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he Agriculture Ministry and its National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) sub-agency are said to be “monitoring the level of the water in the conservancies and canals.”

The current water levels in the East Coast Demerara Water Conservancy in Region Four and Boerasirie Conservancy in Region Three were measured at 52.65GD and 58.15GD respectively. The Mahaica Mahaicony Abary Water Conservancy measured 58.17GD, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

Water levels in Regions Two, Three, Four, Six and Ten were all said to be closely monitored. Several pumps have been re-allocated to other locations while many others are under repairs.

Other areas which have reported low water levels include Manikuru and Tapakuma, Golden Fleece, Ituribisi, and Mainstay

Water Conservancies in Region Two, Crabwood Creek in Region Six. The ongoing drought situation has stemmed from prolonged El- Niño conditions and have resulted in major hardships for farmers. Over the past few months, inconsistent rainfall has imposed a strain on the farming community.

Chairman of Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) Vickchand Ramphal had called on Agriculture Minister Noel

Holder to deploy two excavators to the region to save 17,000 acres of rice under threat of being destroyed by El Niño conditions.

Similarly, Region Nine cattle farmers complained of having to transport livestock over vast areas in order to locate water. Their Regional Chairman, Bryan Allicock, called on Central Government to provide exactors so that they can dig new ponds to cater to residents and animals.

23-year-old charged for murdering reputed wife

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man who was accused of murdering his reputed wife was on Tuesday remanded to prison

by Magistrate Zamilla AllySeepaul when he appeared at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court.

Lakeram Harinarine, 23, of Lot 6 Helena, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, was slapped with the murder charge which stated that between January 7 and 10, 2016, in the vicini-

ty of Mahaica, he allegedly hit Hafeeza Rohoman, 28, to the head with a wooden bicycle bar after a fight and she fell overboard and drowned.

Reports are the autopsy performed on the woman’s body showed her cause of death as blunt force trauma to the head.

The decomposed body of the mother of four was discovered floating in a nearby trench two Sundays after her

disappearance.

Relatives of the dead woman had told reporters that she had recently moved in with Harinarine, who was described as an alcoholic.

Residents claimed that the couple consumed alcohol on a regular basis and the woman was a victim of domestic violence.

The case will continue on February 18 at the Mahaica Magistrate’s Court.

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wednesday, january 20, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

LHC Board reconstituted

BY UTAMU BELLE

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fter an absence of seven months of a legitimate body to effectively govern its affairs, a newly reconstituted Board of the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) was officially put in place on Monday. Minister within the Communities Ministry Valerie Adams-Patterson officiated the Board, which consists of a few former members at a simple gathering in the former hospital building. The reconstituted Board, which appears to be quite optimistic, has outlined a number of initiatives it intends to see carried out commencing this year.

Mortimer Mingo, new Chairman of the Board said there will be greater collaboration with stakeholders in dealing with public health issues as he urged Board to work unifiedly in having those issues addressed.

The 15-member Board

Keeping it real The Indian Mind and the Collective Psyche (Part 2)

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Some members of the reconstituted LHC Board

also consists of AdamsPatterson, D Farouk Riyasat, Patrick Dublin, Maylene Stephens, Jafar Mohamed, Patrick Hudson, Dr Pansy Armstrong, Dr Joseph Haynes and Maurice Butters, among others.

Already, there are a number of initiatives

planned under the Board, in keeping with public health mandates and policies.

Mingo said plans are in place to have doctors placed at various health centres across the Region, which will boost the efficiency of public health in Region 10 (Upper Demerara/Berbice).

The initiatives, he believe, must all be executed in a structured format.

He noted too that the health needs of areas such as Kwakwani and Ituni, part of Sub-Region 2 will be addressed.

“As a part of our programme this year we are hoping to expand that initiative to have doctors based not only at the health centres or the clinics within Linden but as part of our mandate and in keeping in sync with the policy of the Ministry of Public Health as far as practicable, have doctors also placed in the clinics and health centres in Sub-Region 2 and the Demerara River as the case might be. We are also going to supplement or to work in partnership with the Ministry of Public Health and the regional health department in dealing with health outreaches to those communities within our region. We are going to collaborate with other stakeholders to deal with public health issues...”, he said.

While all members of the Board were not present on Monday, others who were invited to share their thoughts expressed feelings of optimism.

Stephens expressed sentiments of goodwill, noting that in 2016, the goal is to see LHC become an institution with a difference: “We’re here to serve and serve we will do.”

Speaking on behalf of the private sector, Mohamed said the hospital should take full responsibility and improve aspects such as effective drug delivery and staff improvement.

Dr Riyasat welcomed members of the Board while outlining that there is a lot of work to do. He said the decisions, policies and energies put into the Board is of utmost importance.

Meanwhile, AdamsPatterson outlined the need for improvement in public relations at the health institution, citing the need for an aggressive PR component. She noted that while the letters of appointment were not with her at the time, they would soon be made available.

homas Kuhn, an American physicist and philosopher, published an important book on epistemology (the study of how we know what we know) in 1962 called “The Structure of Scientific Revolutions”. Kuhn argued that scientists constantly learn from each other and build upon the work of established knowledge. This body of knowledge, once established, eventually becomes accepted by scientists. However, from time to time, there may be a “paradigm shift” when some Dr Baytoram Ramharack aspect of the body of knowledge is questioned by other scientists who are not simply satisfied with the established status quo. The accepted body of knowledge may slowly change when younger scientists, armed with theoretical tools and innovative research techniques, challenge prevailing theories and force a change in the way we see things…thus producing what Kuhn referred to as a “shift” in the established paradigm. This paradigm shift results in a “revolution”. It transforms our knowledge and the way the world has been viewed traditionally.

Think of the colonial period prevailing in the Caribbean before World War II. At the time, most natives in the Caribbean colonies worked within the hegemonic colonial system to move up the social and political ranks. One can argue that a paradigm shift took place after World War II which led to a shift in ideology, leading to a rejection of the colonial imperialist ideology.

We cannot fully understand the Guyanese Indian mindset unless we examine the economic and political influence that shaped their ideology before and after the entry of Cheddi Jagan into Guyanese politics. At the time, the majority of Indians were engaged in smallscale farming, animal husbandry and other primary activities which formed the basis for their economic livelihood. The small Indian commercial business class that moved to New Amsterdam and Georgetown were seen as competitors by the dominant Portuguese and European class. Despite a small group of the successful “capitalist” class, the bulk of the Indians, including those who lived in the rural areas displayed an entrepreneurial skill that was not only indigenous to their culture, but one that ensured their survival after indentureship. The economic ideology from which their entrepreneurial skill was derived ensured the survival of the rice and sugar industries in the years that followed.

In addition to the above, there were a number of notable changes that met the young Cheddi Jagan when he returned to the colony in October 1943. By the late 1930s, Indians, while still holding India as a significant influence on their imagination, were seriously looking at their economic progress in the colony. Some had already explored the establishment of a working relationship with Africans, who were concerned about a growing Indian population which they felt threatened their political and economic gains in the colony.

This relationship was cultivated by the tactful leadership of some members of the British Guiana East Indian Association (BGEIA). As their economic fortunes continued to increase, it was natural for Indians to turn to the political arena to secure and protect their accumulated gains.

Significant political progress was made in 1935 with the election of four Indians to the Legislative Council: EA Luckhoo (Eastern Berbice); Dr Jung Bahadur Singh (Demerara-Essequibo); Peer Bacchus (Western Berbice) and CR Jacob (North Western District). The 1938 centenary celebrations of 100 years of Indian arrival, organised by the BGEIA, assessed the economic and political achievements of Indians in the colony, culminating in the passage of a number of resolutions designed to advance the progress of Indians.

By the late 1940s to the 1960s, it was clear that Third World leaders were radicalised and many had accepted the Marxist paradigm which influenced their nationalistic and anti-Western perspective. Both Cheddi Jagan and Forbes Burnham shared this perspective, though there were variations in their ideology, with the urbane Burnham being the pragmatist, rather than a blind follower of a political ideology. Jagan, on the other hand, through the influence of Janet, accepted the Marxist ideology, which he adopted as the legitimate blueprint for a new and independent Guyana.

While Burnham was moulding a destiny for a future Guyana based on Machiavellian realpolitics, Jagan felt he had to mould a new nation along communist lines. While the Jagans revered Fidel Castro and the Cuban Revolution and saw themselves as leaders who were on the cutting edge in the global struggle against international capitalism and imperialism, African leaders, who have had a long tradition of struggle, saw socialism merely as one vehicle out of many that offered salvation from their plight. Jagan’s ideology, particularly to the extent that it introduced an alien economic blueprint in the colony, was totally alien to the Guianese people, particularly Indians, who formed the majority of his support. The PPP was the only anti-colonial political organisation at the time of its formation in the Caribbean which had the most hardcore Marxists in its leadership ranks. The question is, why did Indians continue to support Jagan, given his wayward ideology which seemed in direct contradiction to the one shared by the majority of Indians? And secondly, what distinct contribution have the Jagans and the PPP bequeathed to the majority of their supporters and how are these contributions reflected in the Indian mindset today?

To be continued.

Send comments to BRamharack60@gmail.com

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wednesday, january 20, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Supreme Court to host domestic violence seminar

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he Supreme Court of Guyana in collaboration with the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Commonwealth Magistrates and Judges Association will be hosting a two-day seminar which will focus on domestic violence in Guyana at the Marriott Hotel, Kingston, Georgetown.

This seminar is an initiative of acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Justice Carl Singh.

Target groups for the

Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Carl Singh

seminar will include the Magistracy, representatives of the Guyana Police Force, and the Ministries of Public Health, and Social Protection.

According to Justice Singh, there was input at the planning stage of the seminar from representatives of the mentioned ministries, the idea being to have a broad focus on the problem of domestic violence in Guyana.

A number of persons from overseas will be in Guyana

Patentia residents await bridge decision

The dilapidated bridge

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he Toevlugt-Patentia Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) has rebuffed claims of responsibility for the current state of the main bridge at Patentia Housing Scheme, West Bank Demerara.

Residents had stated that a newer bridge constructed some years ago, was not built to withstand the weight of heavy-duty vehicles and as such has deteriorated.

On Sunday 10 January, Guyana Times reported on the dilapidated state of the near 70-year-old bridge. In the report, residents and sellers alike voiced concerns over the condition of the bridge with many stating that one vendor had fallen whilst traversing the struc-

ture.

Justice of the Peace and Pandit Chandeeca Persaud of Patentia, said he has had discussions with regional officials sometime last year and they promised that the region will convert the main bridge into a concrete structure.

Chairman of the Toevlugt-Patentia NDC Roy Benett on Tuesday related to this publication that the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) is the body to make decisions on the vintage bridge at Patentia.

“That bridge at Patentia is an RDC bridge. The RDC has [constructed] a new bridge further up from the older one and the NDC is awaiting word from the RDC –if they would [tear] the older one down or fix it

again,” Benett said.

It was believed that the NDC was waiting on funding to move ahead with projects. Chairman Benett however stated that a formula for budgetary allocations to local authorities is still to be worked out.

“Budgetary allocation comes from Central Government and I do not think they have a formula as yet of how they would share such funding,” the NDC head said.

Efforts to contact Regional Chairman Juluis Faerber to provide clarity on these matters proved futile.

Residents have however remained hopeful that the historical bridge would be fixed. The bridge has reportedly been in its current condition for over a year.

Cove and John Ashram to host special Trishul Purnima service on Saturday

By Indrawattie Natram

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he Guyana Sevashram Sangha, Cove and John Ashram on East Coast Demerara, will be hosting a special Trishul Purnima service on Saturday, for the worship of the Hindu God Lord Shiva’s trident, “the Trishul”.

The service will commence from 18:30 hours (6:30 pm) and be officiated by Swami Shiva Shankaranandaji Maharaj who is urging families and devotees to join the Ashram in the observance. According to the spiritual leader, on “Trishul Purnima” the world was introduced to Hare Guru Shankara Shiva Shambu, by Swami Acharya

Pranavaranandaji Maharaj, the full manifestation of Shri Shri Guru Maharaj as such it is an auspicious day.

Sharing information on “Trishul Purnima”, Swami Shiva Maharaj said the Trishul/Trident, is one of the most popular symbols associated with Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga.

Maharaj said Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga used the “Trishul” for the restoration of Dharma (righteousness).

The spirtual leader however said the Trishul has a deep symbolic meaning and Lord Shiva is always seen having one in his hands.

The trident is also part of the iconography of Goddess Durga killing demon Mahisha – the

Mahishasura Mardana.

The Goddess is depicted as killing the demon with the Trishul. According to Maharaj the Trishul symbolises the balance of the three forces of preservation, creation, and destruction.

He also said the Trishul symbol can be interpreted as the representation of the three aspects of consciousness – cognition, conation and affection and also the three Gunas or Praktriti – Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas.

Maharaj is therefore urging mandirs throughout Guyana to observe same on the full moon night of January 23.

The Ashram will be worshipping the Trishul after which arti will be conducted.

for the seminar, including Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale of the Turks and Caicos Islands, District Judge Shamin Qureshi from the United Kingdom, Mark Guthrie of the Legal Affairs Division of the Commonwealth Secretariat, Dr Meena Shivdas,

Gender Expert from the United Kingdom, Dr Dianne Douglas, Clinical Psychologist from Trinidad and Tobago, and Magistrate Kirsty-Ann Gunn, from the Cayman Islands. Karen De Souza, Gender Expert from Guyana will also participate.

The seminar covers a wide range of topics that would stimulate the interests of all participants.

On January 22, 2016 the seminar will be preceded by an opening ceremony to be addressed by President David Granger.

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wednesday, january 20, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

National Suicide Prevention Ramsammyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ruminations Plan to be implemented Lying to the people - Wales

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he Public Health Ministry on Tuesday said that it would be moving to implement a National Suicide Prevention Plan in an effort to tackle the growing scourge in Guyana.

During a meeting with Cabinet Members and several stakeholders within the sector last Sunday, Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton appealed for the involvement of all along with an action-oriented plan that would address the needs of the most vulnerable groups in society in an effort to curb the spike in suicide here. The objective of the meeting was to appraise all key stakeholders on the magnitude and burden of suicide in Guyana; examine the proposed Suicide Prevention Plan and identify the critical elements for actions; define roles, responsibilities and functions of all partners; develop a joint work plan and a monitoring and evaluation framework; prepare a draft budget and establish a technical task force to oversee the implementation of the initiative.

The National Suicide Prevention Plan, as presented to the stakeholders, will provide guidance for the development of a joint work plan including a wide cross-section of partners.

The work plan will enable collaboration among Government Ministries; international partners; Non-

Governmental Organisations (NGOs); Faith Based Organisations (FBOs) and other stakeholders. The proposed activities in this multisectoral approach will be aligned to one of four strategic action areas: risk factors reduction, health promotion and suicide prevention; reducing access to the means of suicide; improving health systemsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; response to suicidal behaviour and strengthening surveillance and research on suicide in Guyana.

Since the beginning of the year, close to 20 persons have either committed suicide or attempted to take their lives, particularly in the Berbice and Essequibo regions, a shocking trend which has been evoking grave concern among the populace.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has ranked Guyana first in suicides per capita worldwide, with approximately 44.2 suicides per 100,000 persons per year.

Over the last decade, a person ended his or her life every 1.8 to 2.4 days in Guyana.

In the United States of America, there was a suicide every 13 minutes and globally, there was a suicide every 30 seconds. Suicide accounted for 1.4 per cent of all deaths worldwide in 2012, making it the 15th leading cause of death, almost as impactful as HIV and AIDS. Among the age group 15 to 30, anywhere

is the Start of Ending Sugar

O

Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton

in the world, suicide is among the top three causes of death.

In Guyana, almost all suicides are committed by ingesting poisons, especially agro-based, and by hanging.

Suicides seem to arise out of feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, powerlessness and loneliness caused by various factors.

Strategic action

Meanwhile, the first strategic area of action explored by stakeholders included the importance of coordination and mobilisation of the NGOs and FBOs at the community, regional and national level; the development of an Information Education Communication Framework which would be guided by appropriate language and messages to the public; and the

use of consultations in relation to neglected areas such as parenting education, coping mechanisms, youth-friendly spaces and the modification of the Health and Family Life Manual to address issues related to suicide in schools.

The second strategic action involved identifying the means of suicide and devising means of reducing access to pesticides, prescription medication, jump sites, alcohol and firearms. The most important priorities are the enforcement of regulations governing the sale, distribution and storage of pesticides at all levels; the creation of Poison Control and Management Centres in affected communities with necessary training of persons; and food and chemical safety goals directed towards the reduction of the use of pesticides, especially those of high toxicity.

Strategic action number three involves boosting the capacity (training and attitudes) of health-care providers, public servants and the nation, on a whole, to respond to suicidal behaviour.

The fourth strategic action responds to the need to improve the data collection process through the creation of a multi-sectoral task force and secretariat for the management and evaluation of data.

This action also corresponds to the dire need for research on the different determinants of suicidal behaviour specific to Guyanese cultural settings.

The meeting agreed on the rapid establishment of a multistakeholder task force to coordinate work under the four strategic action areas and to provide feedback to the key Minister and Government.

The technical working groups each developed a short- and medium-term action plan of activities for immediate implementation. The meeting agreed to a wider stakeholdersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; forum nationally involving all NGOs; Community Based Organisations (CBOs) and FBOs to coordinate regional-level action in the areas when the problem is most acute.

The most recent act of suicide was committed by a 22-year-old Bartica man.

Sean Beykarran was discovered hanging from the ceiling of the unoccupied bottomflat of his house at Fourth Street and Second Avenue, Bartica. His death followed several others, particularly those of young Guyanese.

ne of the indispensable attributes of good governance is being honest with people. It would be naive to think that any government anywhere in the world has been honest with its people 100 per cent of the time.

There are circumstances when for various good reasons, including security, governments have omitted from fully informing its people about every matter before them. I get it and I am, therefore, not saying that governments must be Dr Leslie Ramsammy totally an open book.

While I could visualize circumstances where a government omits to be candid, governments have no right to lie to people. It is people's fundamental right to assume that the government at no time lies to them, even if they suspect that the government has withheld some information under special circumstances, such as security. But after just nine months, APNU+AFC has consistently lied or has been less than candid with the Guyanese people. There has not been a day that has elapsed without another example of dishonesty or failure to be candid.

Another APNU+AFC lie was exposed last week when Guyana Times revealed that APNU+AFC has moved ahead to close the Wales Estate.

A few months ago APNU+AFC forcibly denounced the PPP and GAWU as fear-mongering among the people and that there was no plan to close any estate. But even as the media exposed APNU+AFC's devastating plan to close Wales, they had already begun the process.

Two days ago, they were forced to issue a terse release confirming that Wales Estate will be closed at the end of 2016 and that when they had said there was no plan to close any estate, they were lying.

The fact is that closure of Wales Estate is just the beginning of APNU+AFC's plan to close the sugar industry. We will recall that their main advisor on sugar had recommended before the May 2015 elections that the industry be closed and the land used for tilapia. Ramjattan had agreed with that recommendation and Nagamootoo at the Indian Arrival Site in Berbice had stated that the industry should be closed and the land given to sugar workers. But with a threatened rebellion among sugar workers, Nagamootoo and Granger were forced to say that they will not close the industry in preelections lies.

Today, the evidence is in and APNU+AFC has started a process to end sugar in Guyana.

APNU+AFC is playing games with people. They need to come clean and be honest with the Guyanese people, particularly sugar workers. The truth is that APNU+AFC is fullmouth lying to the people about their intentions for sugar. The use of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) which they claimed will guide the government underlines the big lies.

Sugar workers were denied 2015 wage increases because APNU+AFC claimed they were waiting for the CoI Report, a report that cost almost $70 million. Sugar workers are the only workers without a 2015 wage increase, the first time in decades, and they have also been denied their earned Production Incentive.

Well, the CoI did not recommend closure of any estate; APNU+AFC lied and has now been forced to admit that they are closing Wales against the CoI recommendation. The CoI has now been exposed as a smokescreen and a wicked lie.

We know that they put an entirely new management team for GuySuCo. I had defended Paul Bhim against severe criticisms from the same APNU+AFC. But at no time during this reconfiguration of management by APNU+AFC have they levelled with the people about the conditions of employment of the top managers of GuySuCo. APNU+AFC in Opposition, including Ramjattan, Nagamootoo and their cohorts were busy in the sugar industry telling workers that while they worked for little or nothing, the PPP was paying top managers, including Bhim, disgustingly high super salaries. As workers are denied wage increases now, APNU+AFC need to be candid about how much the top managers are being paid.

The truth is APNU+AFC has evolved lying, lack of candidness, no consultation and dishonesty as a form of governance. They lied about the Guyana Defence Force spying on citizens, to sugar workers, rice farmers, the public servants, pensioners, children in schools and many other people.

While we have come to accept the lying nature of this government, make no mistake - closure of Wales is just the beginning. Wales is the start of ending sugar. (Send comments to doc_ram@hotmail.com)

wednesday, January 20, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

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Around the world

Iraq conflict: Civilians suffering Jamaica’s climate change fight fuels investments “staggering” violence – UN in renewables

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he United Nations says violence suffered by civilians in Iraq “remains staggering”, with at least 18,800 killed between January 1, 2014 and October 31, 2015.

Some 3.2 million people have also been displaced internally over the same period, according to a new report.

The UN accuses the socalled Islamic State of systematic and widespread violence, including holding some 3500 mainly women and children as slaves.

Alleged abuses by troops, militiamen and Kurdish

The UN says the actual figures for those killed could be much higher than the report suggests

forces were also recorded.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Raad

Al Hussein said the report “starkly illustrates what Iraqi refugees are attempt-

ing to escape when they flee to Europe and other regions.

This is the horror they face in their homelands”.

The report, by the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, is based on interviews with the displaced and direct testimony from victims, survivors or witnesses of rights abuses.

It says the figures of 18,802 civilians killed and 36,245 wounded between January 1, 2014 and October 31, 2015 could be much higher. (Excerpt from BBC News)

China’s economic growth slumps to 25-year low

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hina’s economy grew 6.9 per cent in 2015, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures released on Tuesday showed, the lowest level of growth in 25 years.

Chinese leaders are trying to reduce reliance on trade and investment by nurturing slower, more selfsustaining growth based on domestic consumption and services.

But the unexpectedly sharp decline over the past two years prompted fears of a politically dangerous spike in job losses. Beijing responded by cutting interest rates and taking other steps to shore up growth.

Full-year growth for 2015 was the lowest since sanctions imposed on Beijing following its crackdown on the Tiananmen Square pro-democracy

movement caused growth to plummet to 3.8 per cent in 1990.

The October-December growth figure was the lowest quarterly expansion since the aftermath of the global financial crisis, when growth slumped to 6.1 per cent in the first quarter of 2009. Growth in the JulySeptember quarter of 2009 was 6.9 per cent.

“The internation-

al situation remains complex,” said Wang Bao’an, Commissioner of the National Bureau of Statistics, at a news conference.

Tony Nash, chief economist at the Complete Intelligence Consultancy firm, said while it was a setback for the global economy, China’s economy still grew more robustly than most countries. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

US Supreme Court to judge Obama’s immigrant protection plan

U

nited States President Barack Obama’s bid to shield more than four million immigrants from deportation has been given new life after the Supreme Court agreed to review lower court rulings which blocked the initiative.

Obama’s 2014 executive order lifted the threat of deportation against immigrants with no criminal record whose children are US citizens, but upset a large number of states which argued that the President had overstepped his bounds.

The Supreme Court’s Justices said on Tuesday

The border state of Texas is leading 26 states in challenging the immigration plan of President Obama [AP file photo]

that they would review a November ruling by the New Orleans-based 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals

that upheld a February 2015 decision by US District Judge Andrew Hanen in Brownsville, Texas, to halt

Obama’s action.

The border state of Texas is leading 26 states in challenging the immigration plan.

The Supreme Court’s decision to review the case, which was brought by the Department of Justice, is likely to have a strong effect on this year’s US presidential race – with immigration policy a major campaign issue for both Democrats and Republicans.

The case will likely be argued in April and decided by late June, about a month before both parties’ presidential nominating conventions.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Libya announces new unity Government under UN plan

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ibya’s Presidential Council has announced a new Government of national accord aimed at uniting the country’s warring factions under a United Nationsbacked plan.

The Tunis-based council had pushed back the deadline for naming the Government by 48 hours, amid reports of disputes over the distribution of ministerial posts, before Tuesday’s announcement came.

Only seven of the Council’s nine members had signed the document, which named a total of 32 Ministers, including one fe-

The UN-backed deal was brokered in Tunisia, though many members of both Libyan Parliaments rejected the terms [AP]

male.

The UN hopes that the new Government will be able to deliver stability and tackle a growing threat from fighters with the

Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group.

Libya has become deeply fractured since two rival Governments were formed in the summer of 2014,

with one operating from the capital Tripoli and the other from the eastern city of Tobruk.

Many members of Libya’s competing Parliaments did not back the agreement, and critics say that the plan did not evenly represent all the country’s groups and factions.

The agreement still has to be approved by the House of Representatives in Tobruk (which has 10 days to endorse the new Government) as well as the General National Congress in Tripoli, which remains divided over the issue. (Excerpt

from Reuters)

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y year’s end, Jamaica will add 115 megawatts (MW) of renewable capacity to the power grid, in its quest to reduce energy costs and diversify the energy mix in electricity generation to 30 per cent by 2030.

With 90 per cent of its electricity coming from fossil fuels, the Government is committed to reducing the country’s carbon emissions by increasing the amount of electricity generated from renewables from nine per cent now, to 15 per cent by 2020.

Junior Minister Julian Robinson told IPS via email, a National Energy Policy is guiding actions to cut costs and comply with the international agreements to reduce carbon emissions; among them are plans to reduce the amount of electrici-

ty generated from petroleum from 95 to 30 per cent.

Reliance on fossil fuels is also costing the country in terms of high local pollution, healthcare costs and its contribution to global climate change. According to Jamaica’s 2nd National Report to the United Nations Framework on Climate Change (UNFCCC,) in 2000, the energy sector accounted for 86 per cent of the 9532 Giga-grams (Gg) of carbon dioxide emissions, up 1,114 Gg over 1994.

And according to business leaders, the high energy cost is a major barrier to the country’s economic development and is a leading cause of business failure in the country. At J0.40 cents per kilowatt-hour, Jamaicans pay one of the highest rates for electricity in the region.

(Excerpt from Caribbean360)

T&T: Hunt on for escaped murder suspect

Police Officers secure an area where curious onlookers gather on Mucurapo Street, San Fernando, near the scene of the killing of Michael Patterson

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murder suspect under Police guard at hospital managed to escape and is believed to be responsible for another murder in San Fernando.

The suspect, who Police alleged shot and killed Michael Patterson last Friday on a busy Mucurapo Street, San Fernando, was detained after he was injured on Saturday during a shooting incident which left another of Patterson’s relatives in critical condition at hospital.

Police remained tightlipped on the escape Monday, but said an investigation had begun into the circumstance of how the suspect was able to escape.

The feud between warring neighbours has left the community in fear and

Police are bracing for more reprisal killings.

Police investigators say the suspect on the run allegedly shot and killed Alfredo Patterson at King’s Wharf, San Fernando, hours after he escaped from the hospital on Sunday.

Patterson, 25, died around 01:00h Monday at the hospital from multiple gunshot wounds.

A manhunt has been launched for the 27-yearold suspect. Police said he has a gunshot injury to one of his legs and have alerted hospitals, health centres and medical practitioners to be on the lookout for the suspect who would have suffered heavy blood loss. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

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wednesday, january 20, 2016| guyanatimesGY.com

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wednesday, january 20, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Wales Estate closure

Hundreds worry about hardships – Region 3’s economy will die – residents

By Kristen Macklingam and Merissa Wilson

H

undreds of cane farmers, vendors, business owners along with hire car drivers living in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) are calling on the administration to rethink its decision of closing down the Wales Sugar Estate, West Bank Demerara (WBD), a course of action they contend will result in the death of the region’s economy.

Fearful about the future of their livelihoods following the declaration by government to close the estate in the coming months, the concerned residents are pleading with relevant authorities to allow the estate to continue its operations.

A shop owner from Vriesland Village, WBD, Rafiyyah, told this newspaper Tuesday that almost every morning sugar workers and even cane farmers would frequent her shop to purchase food items.

“They does come for bread and tennis rolls and drinks and stuff like that… on weekends the husbands them would come take a few drinks and thing… now if they don’t have money how will they do that?” the woman worried.

She related that she has lived in Region Three all her life and that most villages depend heavily on the spending power of sugar workers and their families.

“When they get paid them and their wives does

shop a lot for their families and thing right here at our local shops and markets. If this estate shut down then they have to find jobs elsewhere and won’t spend money here but where they will find work. The crime will go up cause a lot of them will steal to survive,” Rafiyyah predicted.

Meanwhile, a businessman from Wales, Jainarine Singh, stated that once the Wales factory and estate are shutdown then this will definitely have a negative impact on both families of sugar workers and businesses in the neighbouring communities.

“I mean all of them won’t get back work and for those who get it could be far like in Georgetown. When they go there they would buy their own stocks from there and bring home so they won’t be shopping from us anymore and we will suffer losses too… They should really rethink this thing and don’t close down the estate,” Singh said.

A taxi driver called “Keon” told this publication that this is one of the worst mistakes this government will be making: closing down the Wales Sugar Estate.

“Wales is known for estate. Sugar is something big in this part of the country, this is one of the biggest, biggest downfalls down this side… I working on this road couple years now and estate workers is part of transportation so that is one of the biggest mistakes the government will make,”

he lamented.

In light of the government’s decision, residents are worried that the workers who will be left unemployed might resort to criminal activities in order to survive.

One resident explained that most of the sugar workers have families to provide for and “one can do anything for his family” even steal to ensure they are fed and clothed properly.

Another resident mentioned that crime has gotten to such an extent that it is a risk to leave a petty item, even “an old slippers” in their yards without having to be on the lookout.

“You can’t leave anything hanging around.

Imagine if the estate close down, what’s gonna happen to our community now?” the older woman said.

In addition, numerous business owners indicated that they too will feel “the brunt of the government decision”, since they will have to be constantly be on the alert in order to secure their businesses from trespassers.

All residents who spoke with this publication appealed for the government to rethink the decision since it is one that will turn out to be destructive in the long run.

They believe that the decision was made within the government’s own interest, not considering the longterm effects it will have on workers and residents.

Meanwhile, a cane farmers decried the move by gov-

Sattaur’s son followed by Police in unmarked vehicle – Police say he breached traffic laws

T

he son of Guyana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) Commissioner General, Khurshid Sattaur, was pursued by a tinted unmarked vehicle which turned out to be driven by a female police officer who reprimanded him for an alleged traffic offence.

The young man, Fiyad Sattaur, related that on Saturday around 09:00h, he was heading to the Islamic School on East Street, Georgetown, and while at the intersection of Middleton and Sandy Babb Streets, Kitty, he observed the heavily tinted vehicle.

The young man went on to say that while on Sandy Babb Street, he overtook the vehicle and headed across Vlissengen Road straight into Thomas Lands. According to Sattaur, the tinted vehicle followed him, driving in a dangerous and aggressive manner until it was parallel to his vehicle.

“Sensing imminent danger I became extremely fearful and threatened. I was fearful of being shot, robbed, being run off the road, kidnapped or

worse. Fearful for my life and safety I drove away from this heavily tinted unmarked vehicle. I was unable to contact anyone for help since I was alone in the vehicle and was unable to call for help. In my state of panic I was confused and thought the safest course of action was to drive to the Islamic School, Daraloom where I can take refuge and seek the protection of the elders there and make contact with my parents and the police,” he stated.

The young man went on to say that he headed towards East Street but stopped in proximity of the hospital, when the tinted vehicle pulled up and a female in blue police uniform exited and began screaming at him.

However, in a statement on Tuesday, the Guyana Police Force “refuted” the claims made by Sattaur, saying that they were “totally untrue and malicious”.

The Police confirmed that indeed a uniformed female Police Sergeant, attached to the Traffic Department, had pursued the young man but

only after observing that he overtook a line of other vehicles waiting at the traffic light on Sandy Babb Street and Vlissengen Road.

“The police rank made a note of the vehicle’s registration number intent on following up with prosecution, however, she caught up with the vehicle at the intersection of Lamaha and Albert Streets, where she drove up alongside and told the driver of the offence committed. He, however, drove away,” the police statement revealed.

Nevertheless, the Police said the officer eventually caught up with the vehicle at Lamaha and East Streets.

The younger Sattaur was ordered to drive to Traffic Headquarters, Eve Leary, to which he complied. He was then placed on self bail.

On Tuesday morning, the Sattaur family had indicated that the matter was resolved but according to a police statement, the young man was charged with careless driving and expected to appear in court today.

ernment, saying they will be adversely affected by the drastic decision.

Cane farmers from Belle

Vue and the Canal Polders lamented the imminent hardships they will face considering that they are

among the largest suppliers of cane to the factory. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy.com)

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wednesday, January 20, 2016

ARCHIE

Get into the game by making personal improvements (March 21- that will update your look and April 19) add to your qualifications.

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ARIES

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Show your stuff, but don't GEMINI (May 21- make promises you cannot June 20) keep. Put your best foot forward and make a point to praise others who work as hard as you do.

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Keep your secrets to yourself. Focus on what you can do to help others. A couple of thoughtful changes at home will improve a personal relationship.

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Keep your thoughts to LIBRA (Sept. 23- yourself if you want to avoid a Oct. 23) debate with someone who will never see things your way.

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solution for Last Published Puzzle

Believe in yourself and CAPRICORN your ability to make things (Dec. 22- happen. What anyone else Jan. 19) does doesn't matter, as long as you are happy with the results you get.

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Don't allow indecisiveness PISCES (Feb. 20- to be your downfall. Look at March 20) the possibilities, but be realistic regarding how much you can actually accomplish.

Limitations will prevail if you refuse to meet people halfway.

wednesday, january 20, 2016

19

IAAF scandal worse Australia v India, 4th ODI, Canberra… than football’s crisis, India’s chance at ODI regeneration says Johnson

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Michael Johnson

he corruption scandal that has rocked athletics is worse than the one that has plunged football body FIFA into crisis because it punished clean athletes, four-times Olympic gold medallist Michael Johnson said on Tuesday.

“With athletics, if you think about the victims, it is absolutely worse,” the 400 metres world record holder told BBC radio.

“The victims here are those (clean) athletes. They never had the opportunity to stand on the podium and they should have,” added the American sprinter.

An independent commission of the World

Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has stated in a damning report that “corruption was embedded” at the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).

The report found that a clique run by former IAAF president Lamine Diack covered up organised doping and blackmailed athletes while senior officials looked the other way.

Diack is under formal investigation in France on suspicion of corruption and money-laundering linked to the concealment of positive drug tests in concert with Russian officials.

FIFA is facing the worst crisis in it history as a total of 41 individuals and entities have been charged with corruption-related offences in the United States. FIFA also faces a parallel Swiss probe.

Sepp Blatter, the football body’s longserving head, has been banned for eight years.

Johnson said the IAAF, now led by Britain’s Sebastian Coe, needed to be “completely restructured” but saw little merit in a suggestion that world records should be reset as a way of moving on from the crisis.

“It doesn’t make sense to me how a reset of all the world records is going to deal with the issue of people cheating,” said Johnson.

“It doesn’t create a clean competition and that does not deter anyone from cheating.”

The American also questioned whether Russia’s ban from all competitions as a result of state-sponsored doping should extend to this year’s Rio Olympics.

“Do you ban an entire country that ostensibly could include clean athletes, from participating in Rio? That is a very difficult decision to make,” he said. (Reuters Sport)

B

y the way of losing the series so abysmally India have given themselves a golden opportunity at limited-overs regeneration. Hardly ever do they get a chance to play international cricket with little expectation; now they have two matches coming up with few expecting them to win. Expectation brings pressure, pressure inhibition. Now is the best time for them to shed inhibition.

Just start that final push early and don’t worry about the weak lower middle order. Just bowl those bouncers and forget about the hooks and the wides. Tinker with combinations, although the selectors haven’t left them much room. If it comes off, who knows what wonders the knowledge that it can come off can do.

Not much is likely to change by the way of the strategy of the opposition and the conditions. If anything, Canberra’s Manuka Oval is an even bigger playing surface, which leaves no place to hide for weaker throwing arms. Australia want to move on from 17 to 18 and 18 to 19. Their winning streak at home now

Nadal, Halep out on day of shocks in Melbourne

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he more familiar shock of falling seeds added to the ructions caused by allegations of tennis corruption as former champion Rafa Nadal and highly-fancied Simona Halep both departed in the first round of the Australian Open on Tuesday.

Nadal arrived at Melbourne Park with high hopes of arresting his recent grand slam decline only to depart, his optimism crushed, under a barrage of winners from fellow Spaniard Fernando Verdasco.

Shortly after a dejected Nadal walked off court having tasted his first opening round loss at the Australian Open, women’s second seed Halep bid farewell while another high-profile casualty was seven-times major champion Venus Williams.

Andy Murray, the men’s second seed, and 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka both impressed as the oncourt action took centre stage after the allegations of matchfixing in the sport overshadowed Monday’s programme.

Nadal appeared confused at how he had managed to blow a 2-0 lead in the final set to go down 7-6(6) 4-6 3-6 7-6(4) 6-2 to Verdasco in a four hour 41 minute battle that had echoes of their mar-

Rafael Nadal

athon 2009 semi-final but with a reversed result.

The fifth seed, who failed to win

a grand slam title last year for the first time in a decade, lost the last six games as world number 45 Verdasco unleashed a series of explosive forehands to take his place in the second round.

“He was playing amazing in the last set. If you decide everything in one set, the opponent is ready to hit all the balls at hundred percent, then you are in trouble,” the 2009 champion told reporters.

“The real thing is I was not enough aggressive with my forehand during the whole match. I didn’t feel it. I tried.

I fought. I was ready to do it, and I didn’t. I am sad for that.”

Halep gave similar reasons for her 6-4 6-3 defeat at the hands of Chinese qualifier Zhang Shuai, who was ranked 131 places below the Romanian in the rankings going into their contest over on Margaret Court Arena.

“I think it wasn’t my good day but I give her a lot of credit as she played without fear and hit every ball,” Halep, who has been struggling with an Achilles injury, told reporters.

“She beat me. It’s tough but it’s only one day, only one match and I have many matches ahead of me.” (Reuters Sport)

Australia captain Steven Smith is looking at a new worldrecord winning streak at home

stands at a world-record 17, but Steven Smith reckons there is still room for improvement. They will want to improve on the fact that they have taken a total of five wickets in the first 30 overs of the three matches.

They won’t want to inherit the dead-rubber syndrome of the old Australia. Two of those are coming up; will the foot continue to be on India’s throat?

In the spotlight

His batting in finishing the Melbourne ODI deserves all the headlines, but whisper it quietly: among those who have bowled a minimum of 15 overs in this series where being defensive has been the only option, Glenn Maxwell has the best economy rate, of 5.61. India will feel it is criminal to have let him bowl eight overs for no serious damage, which takes pressure off Smith should one of his main bowlers have an off day.

The best economy rate for India unsurprisingly belongs to Ravindra Jadeja, who came into his own on a slightly slower and drier surface at the MCG. Axar Patel might have felt a little hard done by when Jadeja came right back into the ODI team based on Test form while the incumbent even kept winning one-day matches for his state side single-handedly. With the series gone now, perhaps India can try both of them in the same game; it doesn’t really make sense naming two players in a squad when you are never going to play them together.

Team news

While David Warner had been away on paternity leave, Shaun Marsh scored two fifties, but he knows well Australia don’t go sentimental over these things when it comes to selections. Earlier in the summer he nearly scored a double-century, but had to make way when the batsmen he replaced was back. Warner, though, has said that he needs to justify his place given the pressure from Shaun Marsh. It will be interesting to see if they give Nathan Lyon a game, keeping in mind they have picked him for the Twenty20s.

Australia (probable) 1 David Warner, 2 Aaron Finch, 3 Steven Smith (capt.), 4 George Bailey, 5 Glenn Maxwell, 6 Mitchell Marsh, 7 Matthew Wade (wk), 8 James Faulkner, 9, John Hastings, 10 Kane Richardson, 11 Nathan Lyon/Scott Boland In Melbourne India kept R Ashwin out to give them two half bowlers, but saw the ball turn, the lack of which had made Ashwin ineffective in the first two games.

The catch-22 will continue.

Barinder Sran seemed burnt out playing his third ODI in six days and in three different time zones. He could make way for Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

India (probable) 1 Shikhar Dhawan, 2 Rohit Sharma, 3 Virat Kohli, 4 Ajinkya Rahane, 5 Manish Pandey/Gurkeerat Mann, 6 MS Dhoni (capt. & wk), 7 Ravindra Jadeja, 8 R Ashwin/Rishi Dhawan, 9 Ishant Sharma, 10 Umesh Yadav/Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 11 Barinder Sran/ Bhuvneshwar Kumar. (Cricinfo)

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FIFA’s Blatter is still being Jaguars clash with Red paid his salary despite Force today in 1st semi-final ban from world soccer

WICB/NAGICO Super50

F

Assad Fudadin

By Akeem Greene

I

n a match that would have been more suited for the final, the regional cricketing rivalry between Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago will take centre stage today at the Queen’s Park Oval, when the Guyana Jaguars take on Trinidad and Tobago Red Force in a highly anticipated day/night match.

Since the inaugural Standford T20 when Narsingh Deonarine smashed the “million dollar six” in the final to give Guyana the win, these two sides have been a major crowd attraction. But in a twist of events, Deonarine will be turning out for the Red Force on this occasion because of the new foreign player policy the WICB has implemented.

For Guyana, Aassad Fudadin will be the key man with the bat along with Shivnarine Chanderpaul and skipper Leon Johnson.

Fudadin is the Jaguars leading run scorer with 250 runs from six games at an average of 62.5.

In the last game he scored his maiden List ‘A’ century, a superb knock of 103 not out to steer his side to a hard fought fivewicket win over Combined Campuses and Colleges Marooners. The West Indies Test player, Fuddain along with Vishaul Singh who has a top score of 44 in the competition thus far have gotten Guyana off to some solid starts, which many times laid the platform for their victory.

Chanderpaul who will

Evin Lewis

be playing his 408th List ‘A’ game and batting at three will be vital today with his experience.

Chanderpaul has two half-centuries from four games, and despite not being the most flamboyant batsmen at the crease has held the innings together to allow for many late order power hitting by the other batsmen.

Captain Leon Johnson who before this competition began had set himself some goals to get some high scores, has only one halfcentury so far. He has gotten off to some good starts and his 90-run partnership with Fudadin in the last game should do a world of good to his confidence.

Seamers Paul Wintz and Raymon Riefer, and leftarm spinners Veerasammy Permaul and Gudakesh Motie will have to carry the mantle of tying down a formidable Red Force batting line up.

Trinidad will be buoyed by the return of some of their senior cricketers such as Darren Bravo and Denesh Ramdin. Both Ramdin and the classy Bravo have been among the runs already.

However, their dashing opener Evin Lewis will be the wicket Jaguars will be hoping to pick-off early since Lewis has an appetite to play the big shots. Against the Jamaican Scorpions in their penultimate Group ‘A’ game, he made a dashing 102 from 100 balls with eight fours and six powerful sixes.

One should not forget Captain Jason Mohammed who made 117 not out in a team score of 200 at last

year’s final against the Jaguars.

He along with banned mystery spinner Sunil Narine were the main reasons behind Guyana loosing the final by 135 runs.

The likes of Klye Hope, Kjorn Ottley and Narsingh Deonarine who will desperately want to perform well against his country team if selected in the final XI. The Red Force bowling revolves around off-spinner Jon-Russ Jaggesar who has simply been a revelation in the tournament thus far, picking up nine wickets at an average of 13.66 and an economy rate of 3.94. The likes of Rayad Emrit and Marlon Richards will give support with the ball.

These two sides have always been at logger-heads with each other and many times produced some thrilling games. Match starts at 13:30h.

GUYANA JAGUARS (from): Leon Johnson (captain), Christopher Barnwell, Kevon Boodie, Anthony Bramble, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Royston Crandon, Assad Fudadin, Steven Jacobs, Gudakesh Motie, Veerasammy Permaul, Raymon Reifer, Vishaul Singh, Romario Shepherd, Paul Wintz TRINIDAD & TOBAGO RED FORCE (from): Jason Mohammed (captain), Narsingh Deonarine, Rayad Emrit, Kyle Hope, Akeal Hosein, Jon Russ Jagesar, Steven Katwaroo, Imran Khan, Evin Lewis, Uthman Mohammed, Kjorn Ottley, Yannick Ottley, Marlon Richards, Darren Bravo, Denesh Ramdin, Philton Williams

IFA’s Sepp Blatter may have been banned for eight years from the game but he is still receiving his president’s salary from world soccer’s governing body, a spokesman for FIFA’s Audit and Compliance Committee told Reuters on Monday.

Blatter was suspended for 90 days by FIFA on Oct 8 and then banned from the game for eight years last month for ethics violations over a $2 million payment FIFA made to European soccer boss Michel Platini with Blatter’s approval in 2011.

But Blatter, a Swiss national who has been president of FIFA since 1998, will continue to be paid until a new president is elected on Feb 26, the spokesman Andreas Bantel said. That would mean Blatter would have been paid for nearly five months during which time he was unable to carry out his duties, and a period in which FIFA has appointed an acting president, African soccer head Issa Hayatou.

The compensation subcommittee of FIFA’s Audit and Compliance Committee recently ruled that it could stop Blatter’s bonuses but not, according to his contract, his salary.

“Until the election of a new president on February 26, Mr Blatter is the elected president and therefore - according to his contract - is entitled to receive his remuneration,” Bantel said.

Blatter’s U.S. lawyer

Sepp Blatter

and his Switzerland-based spokesman could not be immediately reached for comment.

FIFA is facing the worst corruption crisis in it history as a total of 41 individuals and entities, including many former FIFA officials, have been charged with corruption-related offences in the United States. The U.S. investigation is far from over and FIFA also faces a parallel Swiss probe.

Blatter’s bonuses have been stopped because he was not carrying out his duties of supervising the organization, including its general secretary.

COMPENSATION A SECRET

Only last week, FIFA announced that Jerome Valcke was fired from his position as general secretary. It gave no reason but an investigation had followed allegations of corruption related to World Cup ticket sales.

“The duty of supervision is listed explicitly in the target agreements for the payment of bonuses. The compensation committee has therefore decided, at its last meeting, not to make any further bonus payments to Mr Blatter,” said Bantel.

The size of Blatter’s compensation from FIFA has remained secret although reforms to be voted on at the organization’s February Congress call for the disclosure of individual compensation for the president and top executives.

It is also unclear what Hayatou is getting paid to be acting president.

FIFA’s finances may have taken a blow in the past year because of the costs and distractions of the corruption scandal. According to a report from the UK’s Press Association late last year, the organization suffered its first loss last year since 2001.

Bantel declined to discuss what proportion of Blatter’s payments came from his bonuses.

The FIFA Ethics Committee said the payment to Platini, made at a time when Blatter was seeking re-election, lacked transparency and presented conflicts of interest, though both men denied any wrongdoing. Platini has also been banned from soccer for eight years.

Both Blatter and Platini have said they will appeal against their bans. (Reuters Sport)

Phangiso sanctioned for drunken flight incident

A

Aaron Phangiso played in one ODI on South Africa’s India tour

aron Phangiso, the left-arm spinner who has played 16 ODIs and nine T20s for South Africa, has apologised after being prevented from boarding a flight for being drunk and unruly.

The incident took place on October 26 last year, after South Africa beat India in an ODI series and the squad was on their way home, but news of Phangiso’s behaviour only broke on Sunday, in Afrikaans newspaper Rapport . CSA has confirmed Phangiso was sanctioned in late November but did not reveal the nature of the punishment.

“We confirm that Aaron

pleaded guilty to contravening our player code of conduct and has been sanctioned,” CSA said in a statement.

“The punishment for that incident was handed out last year, and that issue is now in the past.”

It is unclear whether the sanction meted out to Phangiso involved a fine or match ban but he was the only player from the victorious series in India who was left out of the squad to play England.

Linda Zondi, South Africa’s convener of selectors, said he was not aware of the airline incident, having previously explained the

decision as being based on conditions. “Imran [Tahir] is our No. 1 limited-overs spinner and in India we were trying to see who we could use with him, whether that was Aaron or Eddie [Leie],” Zondi said. “But in home conditions, we don’t need more than one specialist spinner and we also have JP [Duminy] in the squad, who can do a job.”

Phangiso revealed what took place after the victory in his apology. “We were celebrating a one-day series win in one of the toughest places to play, and I obviously had one too many drinks,” he said.

He “behaved poorly” by insulting flight attendants and other passengers on the flight from Mumbai to Dubai and was prevented from boarding the second flight from Dubai to Johannesburg. “The Emirates staff in Dubai explained that I had to stay behind and sober up, and I completely understand their reasons,” Phangiso said. He then caught a later flight back to Johannesburg.

Phangiso has vowed to try and earn back his place in the national squad, with a view to playing in the World T20 in March. (Cricinfo)

sports

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hris Gayle has farewelled the Big Bash League for this summer - and possibly forever - with a social media outburst in which he hit back at former cricketers who criticised his behaviour during an interview with journalist Mel McLaughlin.

Gayle also declared himself a league-builder in the Twenty20 format and said that if he had played his last BBL innings his “memory with the fans will live on forever”.

His final innings certainly was memorable: a 12-ball half-century that equalled the all-time fastest T20 fifty set by Yuvraj Singh in 2007. But Gayle will be remembered more for theinterview in Hobart in which he asked McLaughlin for a drink and told her: “don’t blush, baby”.

His comments were widely criticised, including by Cricket Australia, and while Gayle was not suspended by his team, Melbourne Renegades, it is considered unlikely he will be welcome in future BBL tournaments. Gayle used his Instagram account on Tuesday, the day after his last innings of the series, to thank the Renegades and the Australian fans for their support.

“Ppl think I may have played my last innings in Aus but my memory with the fans

will live on forever!!” Gayle wrote. “I build leagues around the world and Big Bash is one of them ... ‘Give the ppl what they want’.”

Gayle’s conduct during the interview was criticised by various media outlets and former players, including Andrew Flintoff, who tweeted at the time that Gayle had “made himself look a bit of a chop”. Gayle’s former Sydney Thunder team-mate, Chris Rogers, was more expansive on ABC radio during the Sydney Test and said he had concerns about the influence set for younger players.

“From my time at the Thunder, I was very disappointed in his attitude and his behaviour and I’ve never been a fan since,” Rogers said at the time. “From what I saw, if I had have been in the Thunder the next year, it would have been my advice that he shouldn’t have been anywhere near the set-up.

“The reason I think he hasn’t played in the BBL for a while is because that was said: ‘Stay away from Chris Gayle because he brings more trouble than he’s worth’. This is a pattern of behaviour that if you know the guy you see it over and over. To defend it, I think is not right at all. I don’t see it as funny at all. He says it’s just a joke. Well, it’s not just a joke is it?”

Although he did not name anyone, Gayle was scathing about the criticism he had received.

“To the MEDIA, Thank You all so! The Haters, I Thank you even more ... I think a lot of past and present cricketers who smile in front my face could’ve have there say In the public when my so call issue was going on, but y’all don’t have the BALLs to stand firm when it matters - but yet when u see me you’re like, Chris that’s BS against you, it was blown out of proportion smh [shaking my head]...don’t tell me, tell the media and public!

“The past cricketer who say I make myself look like a chop, the other who claim I was no good to the youngsters while playing for the thunder, the next one who said he expect that sort of behavior from Chris - Y’all can kiss my ‘Black Rass’ I love Australia and I will be back again even for the ... oi oi”.

(Cricinfo)

Rio slims down as Brazil’s economic crisis bites

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he grandstands for watching rowing and beach volleyball at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics are to be reduced in size to cut spending as Brazil’s economic crisis hits home, Olympic officials said on Tuesday.

The number of volunteers has also been cut from around 70,000 to 50,000 and the total of cars slashed by 20 percent to 4,000 from an original estimate of 5,000, Rio 2016 spokesperson Mario Andrada told reporters.

The moves come after four months of negotiations between Brazilian organisers, the International Olympic Committee and federations from around the world over how best to trim spending and ensure that South America’s first Olympic Games do not go over budget.

“We have cut some services and made some important corrections,” Andrada said.

“We have a balanced budget, with some creative solutions. Many of the future games will be inspired by what we do today.”

Brazil is suffering from its worst economic crisis

Work being done at the Rio Olympic Park (Reuters photo)

in decades, with the economy shrinking last year and expected to do the same in 2016.

Money is tight and organisers are keen to ensure they are not seen to be spending frivolously.

They did not say exactly how many seats will be lost in the reshuffle as final details are still being worked out.

But the original capacity for the rowing and kayak sprint events was 14,000, according to official figures.

The beach volleyball arena to be built on Copacabana beach was originally sched-

uled to hold 12,000 people.

Organisers have also agreed to slim down backstage installations and hold off on moving into certain venues. Some venues had separate rooms for security, judges and officials and these will be reduced or even moved to tents.

“If you save on walls at almost all the venues, two or three walls at each means a big saving,” Andrada said.

“One of the places we made a big saving is in the move-in dates, when we move in and take control of an installation,” he added.

(Reuters Sport)

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guyanatimesGY.com

wednesday, january 20, 2016

Lusignan SC calls for NDC/RDC support

Tenelec Inc. U-15, two innings cricket…

Sinclair, Anderson propel Rose Hall to the final

The Lusignan Community Centre ground is home to some of the country’s best young cricketing prospects

By Avenash Ramzan

E

xecutives of the Lusignan Sports Club are hoping for a much better working relationship with the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC)/ Regional Democratic Council (RDC) in the execution of its mandate to promote sports along the East Coast corridor, more specifically in the Lusignan and surrounding areas.

Speaking at the annual award ceremony last weekend in the auditorium of the club, president of the Lusignan Sports Club, Christopher Singh, in giving a review of the past year, said it was not all smooth sailing.

“When I was elected president just over a year ago, I would have never thought leading a club’s administration would have involved so many challenges.

Regrettably, many having little to do with cricket,” Singh told the gathering.

“We have had a challenging year, but we’ve also had some successes too- reaching the finals of several competitions, however, struggling to get over the final hurdle.

But, these were significant

achievements in view of the highly disruptive actions taken by persons employed at this very Community Centre amidst the limited amount of competitive cricket our youngsters are exposed to.”

The NDC is located in the compound of the Lusignan Community Centre. This publication understands that the club and the NDC have shared a tumultuous relationship over the years.

Meanwhile, Singh said when he took up the challenge to lead the club, he had a clear objective to create an avenue for youth to be positively engaged, something that he is still looking to aggressively pursue.

“I took up this challenge voluntarily because I wanted to see young people, especially those coming from disadvantaged circumstances, fulfil their potential through sports and to keep them away from societal ills, such as drugs, HIV/Aids and suicide.

These continue to be my sole objectives,” he explained.

It is with these objectives in mind that Singh is now calling on the NDC and RDC for their support, as the club is also striving to expand its reach by tapping into other

disciplines.

“I also appeal to the NDC and the RDC to offer better support to our club, and that a groundsman is finally appointed to aid in pitch preparation and ground cutting. We hope they could assist us with the erection of the southern side screen, as we previously built the one on the northern side. And that a room could be allocated on this premise for our gym,” Singh highlighted.

He continued, “The executive hopes to expand our operations from cricket to include other sports in the coming years, such as table tennis and volleyball, and would like the support from the NDC and the RDC merely by making the space available. I also wish that the government bodies, such as the Sport and the Local Government Ministries, pay greater attention to some of the unnecessary difficulties clubs such as our’s face.”

Whether those proposals outlined by Singh will become reality is left to be seen, but what is clear is that the Lusignan Sports Club is calling for a collaborative effort to move the process of development forward.

Unity Cricket set for January 30 – tickets go on sale today

T

he likes of Chris Gayle, Darren Sammy, Dwayne Smith, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Nicholas Pooran, Jason Holder, Jonathon Foo, Samuel Badree and Christopher Barnwell among many other top West Indies and local cricketers will take centre stage at the Providence National Stadium to engage in a T20 game on Saturday January 30.

At the launching on Tuesday at the Georgetown Cricket Club, Public Relations Officer of the event Sean Devers explained that the match has been sanctioned by the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB). He furthered added that a Kid’s fun day on the tarmac and five soft ball games will also be played.

The softball teams set to take part are Demerara girls, Berbice Karibee Girls, Demerara Masters, Berbice Masters, Berbice Karibbee

Boyz, Essequibo, Wolf Warriors (West Dem), Regal (Georgetown).

Eworth Williams of Legacy Promotions revealed that the aim of event is to unite Guyanese through Sports and to contribute to the 50th Independence Anniversary.

With the aim of giving back, James Bond, head of the 007 Promotions explained that plans are being put in place to have some of the cricketers travel to Berbice, where they will interact with fans and young cricketers “We trying to see if on Friday we can carry some of the cricketers to Albion Community Center Ground to meet some of the fans there, maybe bowl a few balls, hit a few sixes”, Bond said.

It was noted that the first batch of cricketers will arrive in Guyana Thursday 28 then on Friday 29.

There will also be live radio commentary and fans can win US $500 if they take a one-handed catch in the stands. Oragnisers also revealed that Sarwan and Barnwell will be the two captains of the teams.

Digicel’s Sponsorship and Events Manager, Luanna Abrams, said the company was pleased to be associated with event and that fans can expect surprises from Digicel.

Tickets cost $2000 and will cost $1000 more if purchased on the day at the stadium.

The tickets cover all the day’s activities they will be sold at M&M Snackette, at all their locations; Patsey’s Variety Store at Soesydke junction; Tycoo Future Store, West Demerara and Parika; Little Rock Hotel, New Amsterdam and Poonai’s Pharmacy, Rose Hall and hopefully at Giftland’s Mall, East Coast Demerara. (akeemg@guyanatimesgy.com)

R

Kevlon Anderson

ose Hall Town Farfan and Mendes have advanced to the final of the Tenelec Inc. Under-15, two innings cricket competition in Berbice.

Led by the brilliance of the two national Under-15 cricketers Junior Sinclair and Kevlon Anderson, they beat old rivals Tucber Park emphatically on first innings in their drawn semi-final match.

In the match, which was played at the Rose Hall Town ground, Tucber Park inserted the host and struck early as Surendra Budhoo fell to Bharrat Bhopal without scoring at 10-1 in the fourth over. Their elation was however short lived, as the other opener Sinclair was joined

by Anderson and they went on to put on 130 for the second wicket before Anderson fell to Leon Swami for 63

Steve Deonarine

(7x4s).

Sinclair continued, putting on 50 for the fourth wicket with Berbice Under-15 batsman Keith Simpson (23) and 40 for the fifth wicket with Quesi Crandon (20).

Sinclair was then caught for a well played 90 (8x4s, 3x6s).

Rose Hall eventually made 257 all out. Bowling for Tucber Park, Leon Swami took 3-42, Nikeem Noble 3-60, Bharrat Bhopal 2-26 and Brandon Stewart 2-52.

When Tucber Park replied, they too lost an early wicket. However, Guyana Under-17 batsman Steve Deonarine and last year’s Guyana Under-15 selectee Garfield Benjamin looked threatening together, but after they had added 36, off-spinner Sinclair re-

moved Benjamin for 19 and Ravishkar Budhoo for zero to reduce them to 48-3.

Deonarine soon went the run out route for 29, ending any serious resistance with only Brandon Stewart making 29 not out to take Tucber Park to 119-9 at which point they declared. Sinclair ended with 4-33, Keith Simpson 2-30 and Brandon Corlette 2-12.

Tucber Park’s desire to bowl out Rose Hall Town cheaply in their second innings to snatch a come-frombehind outright win looked promising when leg-spinner Stewart removed Corlette for nought at 6-1. However, their hopes were dashed once again

by Sinclair and Anderson, who batted Tucber Park out of the game by putting on 106 for the second wicket.

They both fell to Stewart, Sinclair for 63 and Anderson for 62 and with Surendra Budhoo making 32 and Keith Simspon 23, Rose Hall declared at 209-6. Stewart took 5-70.

Tucber Park, facing a daunting target of 348 with 180 minutes play left, managed to reach 137 -3 at the end with Deonarine batting well for 65, while Benjamin made 24. For Rose Hall, Simpson took 2-28.

Rose Hall Town will now face Blairmont Community Centre in the final, which is scheduled for this Saturday and Sunday at the Blairmont Community Centre.

Narine expects to be available in time for T20 World Cup

W

est Indies mystery spinner Sunil Narine is reportedly progressing well with rehabilitation work on his action and is on schedule to be available ahead of this year’s T20 World Cup. Narine was banned from international cricket in November of last year after being reported during the third one-day international against Sri Lanka in Pallekelle.

A subsequent assessment

of the 27-year-old’s actions revealed all variations of his delivery exceeded the 15 degrees level of tolerance permitted under ICC regulations.

The player has since then been undergoing work to correct his action, which is said to be progressing well.

Narine was, however, also twice reported for a suspect action in September and October 2014 while playing for Kolkata Knight Riders in the Champions League

Twenty20.

The 27-year-old, the former world number one ranked bowler in the T20 format can apply for a re-assessment after modifying his bowling action in accordance with clause 2.4 of the suspect bowling action regulations.

Though currently not on a retainer contract Narine is expected to be a part of the World Cup team heading to the tournament later this year. (Digicel Sportsmax)

G Square Cavaliers lose to Maris Pleasure

G

Square Cavaliers Sports Club of Wakenaam lost by two wickets to Maris Pleasure/Zeelandia when action in their community cricket competition continue in Essequibo.

Cavaliers batting first rattled off a

175-8 off their allotted 20 overs with C, Ragnauth top scoring with 59 runs while S. Shiwnandan and B Bhagpattii contributed 22 and 19 runs respectively.

P. Lewis picked up figures of 4-14 from his allotted four over to aid Maris Pleasure in the bowling department while L. Lewis had figures of 3-20 in four overs.

In reply, Maris Pleasure made 177-8 with one over to spare to secure the hard fought victory. P. Lewis was again in the thick of things with a top score of 50 to lead his side to the win.

V. Pooran and L. Lewis scored 39 and 29 runs respectively to aid the successful run chase.

Shiwnandan had figures of 3-20 off four overs while Ragnauth picked up 2-38 in his four overs as the Cavaliers bowlers were unable to stop the flow of runs during the match.

guyanatimesGY.com

wednesday, january 20, 2016

23

Rebel Tennis Club opens Colts, Guardians set season in fine style up a thrilling finale R – deciding game set for tonight A GABA League of Champions…

ebel Tennis Club (RTC) commenced its one year anniversary activities in fine style last weekend when it launched the inaugural RTC Championships 2016, making it the first club to add a tournament to the Guyana Tennis Association’s (GTA) calendar of events.

During the opening ceremony at Harry Panday’s court, President of RTC, Jamal Goodluck, expressed the desire of the club to live up to its name. He expects the club players to be rebels and standout, setting the trend in a positive way.

He envisions the tournament becoming a standard of prestige that inculcates a breed of disciplined players. He also highlighted the hard work coach Andre Erskine has dedicated into the starting of RTC. The coordinators and all players were enthused and most grateful to Harry Panday for allowing all matches to be played at his facilities. President of GTA, Grace McCalman, delivered the exciting news that the tournament is being considered an accredited one that would see the awarding of ranking points to players based on the execution of the tournament. She hinted very subtly that so far the prospects look excellent.

Results

Matches got underway with Romario Chanderballi facing the most improved player of 2015, Joshua Kalekyzei. Kalekyzei prevailed 6-1, 6-0.

In the same round, Keimo Benjamin had a similar fight against Ronald Murray. Murray unleashed his left handed slice serve which posed as a major obstacle for Benjamin.

However, he averted the edge of being double bagel and clung to two games, but it was no stopping Murray, who secured the game 6-0, 6-2, and will now face Oswin Coggins in the next round.

Goodluck had a combat in the sweltering heat against the fit Kijana Lewis. The unseeded Lewis has returned to the tennis circuit after being away for a few years. The two players held their serves in the first set that ended in a 7-4 tiebreak in favour of Lewis.

It appeared Goodluck’s focus and rhythm diminished which gave Lewis the upper hand as he took the game 7-6 (7-4), 6-2. The Round of 16 had additionally duels with veterans Rudy Grant taking on his long-time friend and rival Godfrey Lowden in a battle of consistency. However, this time Lowden was able to dispel Grant 6-3, 6-4.

Number three seed, Benjettan Osborne, did not waver in his quest to take on the top seeds as he clinched a 6-2, 6-1 win against Philbert Clarke.

Harry Panday (left) and Kijana Lewis after their epic battle

An unfortunate walkover

by Sewon McGregor gave Leyland Leacock an easy passage to the quarter-finals.

Harry Panday made no hesitation in whipping up a 6-0, 6-0 win against Andrew Lallbeharry to book a quarter-final spot against Lewis after receiving a walkover from the number one seed, Anthony Downes.

The compelling Benjettan Osborne put on a show against Godfrey Lowden that had a little bit of suspense, drama, nailbiting points and humorous moments.

The camp of the Berbician Lowden was perched on the balcony of the court and was confident in the skills of their star player who set up a 5-2 lead. The viewers could not comprehend the tenacity of Osborne as he willed himself with the cheers of “come on Benjie” from his camp based on the sideline.

He absorbed the pace of Lowden to launch a comeback at 7-5. The second set was as equally tense with Osborne hanging in the same precarious position of being down 5-3 and two set points. A crossing volley winner by him and a missed volley by Lowden was just the momentum that he needed.

He took the match into a tiebreak and eventually won it at 7-4. He closed the game at 7-5, 7-6 (7-4) and tallied 16 winners.

The Berbice entourage supported their veteran, Anthony Amerally, as he sought to redeem his fellow club mate. Pristine tennis was played by him against the power serves of Stephen Bailey, who was taken aback by the high level of consistency of Amerally.

The Berbician closed the match at 6-3, 6-1 and will now take on number two seed, Leyland Leacock.

Kalekyzei stunned the spectators at the level of his game against the fourth seed, Andre Erskine, who had to work for each gruelling point.

The lethal inside-out forehand, solid backhand and strategic play produced seven winners for the junior; nevertheless the experience of Erskine gave him the advantage to secure the game at 6-3, 6-4.

On the Ladies side of the competition, Grace McCalman was up for a swing against her old rival, Carol Humphrey. The match was an entertaining one that delighted the audience to a vintage form of the game with classy touches and wonderful sportsmanship.

Humphrey marches on with a 6-0, 6-2 win to face Afruica Gentle in the semifinals.

Gentle powered through with a 6-2, 6-2 win against Shivani Persaud.

Former novice champion Cristy Campbell was a retriever despite her swollen ankle. Sarah Klautky started off with a bang and secured her first game with a smash, but the ability of Campbell to return the solid shots placed Klautky on shaky grounds and forced her to play extra strokes that racked up errors.

The first quarter-final embodied the definition of a standoff of skill and will between 67-year-old Harry Panday and 32 year-old Kijana Lewis. They rallied beyond three hours of good tennis. Although Lewis was striking the ball with all his power to gain 62 winners, Panday did not skip a beat as he went toe to toe with Lewis.

He took the first set 7-5, but as the match went on Lewis found his comfort zone and ran away with the second set 6-3 and a 5-2 lead in the third set. Panday was not to be easily dismissed as he climbed back to level the game at 5-5.

Lewis took the first jump to six and Panday quickly followed to force a tiebreak. He could not deny Lewis thirst to win and finished the tiebreak at 7-3.

Lewis now awaits his opponent in the semi-finals.

Matches will continue at Panday’s court at 18:30h throughout the week.

fter taking game one on Friday, the Plasaince Guardians missed their chance of closing out their best of three finals in the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) League of Champions on Sunday against the Colts at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

A missed buzzer beater

by Nikkoloi Smith ensured that the Colts survived the last second scare as they came away with a thrilling 77-74 win against the Guardians.

Smith received an inbound pass with a few ticks on the clock and fired a shot that rattled the rim only to rim out to the dismay to the Plaisance players.

However, Colts start the fourth quarter in firm position with the score on 65-48, nevertheless a 13-5 run by the Guardians would give the Colts a slim six point lead as panic mode was seemingly switch on by the Colts.

Dave Causway

Shane Webster

With four second left on the clock Colts’ Kurt English with the score on 77-74 would miss two free throws to seal the deal to give the Guardians the last second shot.

Dave Causway scored 19 points in the victory while Shane Webster and Shelroy Thomas scored 17 and 14 points respectively.

Trenton Woolford dropped a game high 25 points in the loss while Nikkoloi Smith scored 18 points as well.

In other results, Eagles defeated Pacesetters 81-75 to clinch the u-23 championship while Nets downed arch-rival Pepsi Sonics 5442 to secure the 2nd division title. Both championships were cinched following 2-0 wins in their respective three match series.

The deciding games between the two sides for the championships will take place today at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall from 20:30h.

wednesday, January 20, 2016

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

WICB/NAGICO Super50

Jaguars clash with Red Force today in 1st semi-final Pg 20

Old foes meet again today! Jaguars will need to play their best all-round game of the competition to overhaul this powerful Red Force team

expects to Unity Cricket set Narine be available in time for January 30 for T20 World Cup – tickets go on sale today

Players and representatives of the organising body

Pg 22

Pg 22

Sunil Narine

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