Guyana Times Daily

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Issue No. 2766

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Saturday, February 13, 2016

PRICE

Lindeners protest alleged Police excess, brutality

WHAT'S INSIDE:

$40M allocated to build P14 domestic violence centre

Page 3

Months after fatal high-speed chase P14

– say “plastic bags” placed over victims heads GPL multimillion-dollar fraud allegations…

Former Deputy CEO breaks his silence

$80 vat included

High Court blocks Exec Jet Club from utilising CJIA hangar Page 13

Page 12

SOCU ranks to “come in line” as protocols now crafted – Ramjattan

Housing sector investment….

PPP walks out on PM’s Budget debate…

Jagdeo to Govt: Respect parliamentary traditions Page 10

$6.8B to be spent while creating jobs – Minister SharpePatterson P16

Wanted man confesses to Diwali night P17 murder

Opposition People's Progressive Party/Civic Members of Parliament staged a walk out ahead of Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo's Budget presentation in the National Assembly on Friday

Gunmen terrorise, rob Blairmont family Page 7

...cart off cash, jewellery

Stanley Ming installed “Sweet taste as new GGMC Page 11 Board Chairman of victory Spiralling crime situation

turning bitter” – Rohee Page 9

…as Ramjattan fires back during Budget debates

Zeelught P12 carjacker escapes from Police custody Wales Estate closure

GAWU to intensify strike, protest actions – likely to go countrywide from Monday

P7

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saturday, february 13, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

CJIA passengers increased in January G

uyana’s main port of entry – the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) – got a great start for the year with an increased influx of passengers in January.

According to the CJIA, traffic at the main airport rose by six per cent in January 2016. The airport’s statistics revealed 17,728 passengers arrived last month compared to 16,667 for the same period in 2015. According to Ramesh

Ghir, CJIA’s Chief Executive Officer, the proliferation in passenger numbers is due to leisure travel and increased business and tourism activities.

Analytical data also indicate that the various airlines operating in Guyana – Caribbean Airlines, Dynamic Airways, COPA, Suriname Airways, Fly Jamaica and Insel Air – have also recorded increase in passengers for January.

The Cheddi Jagan International Airport

The CEO noted that this trend is expected to continue over the coming months especially with the grand 50th Independence anniversary celebrations just over two months away.

“Our forecast for the next few months indicates there will be a huge influx of visitors to celebrate our Golden Jubilee activities in May. Management for its part will be working to advance our infrastructure and services provided, including Immigration and Customs to ensure a smooth process through the terminal building,” Ghir added. These figures recorded by CJIA comes just after the airport would have reported another successful year with in excess of $1 billion in revenues collected in 2015, almost double the amount in the last six years.

Based on the report, 2015 saw the CJIA attracting $1,112 million in revenue as compared to $1,017 million for 2014, an increase of 9.3 per cent. Of this sum, $418 million was transferred to the Consolidated Fund in comparison to $393 million in the previous year.

According to CJIA, these increases were as a result of an increase in financial activity through improvement in the transactions at the airport. These factors were increase in the transport of passengers, mail, goods, including oil. Statistics rendered show a total of 504,717 passengers flown from the airport, a six per cent increase for the corresponding period of the previous year; while international passenger arrivals for 2015 is 250,241 or six per cent higher than 2014.

The Airport related there was a six per cent increase in imported cargo and a six per cent decrease in exports when compared with the previous year. It was disclosed that of the cargo imported, 86 per cent was agricultural industrial products and livestock while six per cent was indus-

CJIA CEO Ramesh Ghir

trial supplies. Additionally, it was released that of the 3,486,397kg of incoming cargo, 71,676kg were related to mails and of the 2,693,908kg of outgoing cargo, 24,948 related to mails. Meanwhile, expenditure last year was $761 million, a 10.8 per cent increase from 2014’s $687 million, the CJIA disclosed.

“Increase can be attributed to increase in staffing and additional maintenance work in Terminal Building and other infrastructure. During 2015 staffing increased from 171 to 193 due to recruitment in the Aviation Security department,” the release stated.

Meanwhile, in anticipation of a modernised terminal building and extended runway as part of the Airport Expansion Project, the CJIA head along with other government officials have been aggressively courting a number of North American and Latin American airlines to ply the Georgetown route. Airline executives look for unserved destinations with enormous potential and Guyana is one such destination due to heightened investments in oil and precious mineral explorations. Such investments attract yielding premium passengers which serve as a bonus for airlines serving any route.

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saturday, february 13, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, February 13 – 08:30h-10:00h and Sunday, February 14 – 09:00h-10:30h.

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, February 13 – 07:25h-08:55h and Sunday, February 14 – 08:15h-09:45h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Weather: Thundery to light rain showers can be expected throughout the day, while partly cloudy conditions are expected in the evening.

Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly between 4.91 metres and 6.25 metres per second.

High Tide: 07:58h and 20:25h reaching maximum heights of 2.68 metres and 2.59 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 01:31h and 13:56h reaching minimum heights of 0.53 metre and 0.55 metre respectively.

Lindeners protest alleged Police excess, brutality – say “plastic bags” placed over victims heads

BY UTAMU BELL

R

elatives of a few Lindeners who have been charged in connection with crimes, took to the streets on Friday, demanding the removal of Police Inspector Chubinauth Singh, assigned to E Division (Linden-Kwakwani); Commander Calvin Brutus and Corporal Philbert Kendall. who The protesters held placards and marched along Republic Avenue, Mackenzie, were mainly the families of three men charged in connection with a recent robbery which occurred on the Mabura Public road.

Protester Calwyn Croal was wanted in connection with the robbery and was subsequently released after turning himself in.

Allegations were also made by a suspect in relation to another issue, who alleged that he was taken to Bamia Creek along the Soesdyke, Linden Highway, where a plastic bag was placed over his head and he was beaten.

A mother’s cry

Eva Stephens, mother of Jevon Scott and Devon Stephens, who have wanted bulletins issued for them in connection with a recent robbery, said her children were in the interior at the time of the incident and she was only made aware of the allegations against them when she saw the wanted bulletins in the newspapers.

As such, she said the Police are “staining” her children’s names.

“These Police come into my home, want go in me house... They say they see Devon riding the bike on the back road going to check truck, like he left a truck there. They hold on pon me son pon the bike. Me son had to ride away because my son don’t have no registration,

Some of the protesters at Mackenzie

the bike ain’t in he name, nothing... they torment me and me children. Me son just come from Camp Street, $500,000 bail they put he on, give he two robbery charges, them thing is wrong things.

In this country, you guilty before they prove you innocent,” she stated.

Another mother, Coretta Langhorne, alleged that Corporal Kendall and other ranks from the Mackenzie Police Station took her son to a back road where he was beaten to confess to a crime which she claims he is innocent of. According to the woman, her son has been remanded to prison for over a year as a result.

The mother of Phelon Cumberbatch, whom a wanted bulletin was issued for said she did not take her son in to the Police after learning of the wanted bulletin but contacted a lawyer instead, who subsequently took him in.

She said eight counts of break and enter and larceny charges were then laid against him and the matter was tried in Georgetown.

According to her, bail was then set at $2 million.

“They couldn’t believe he made bail. When he come up here for court, Philbert Kendall words to him was “Mih guh place things on you so they could lock your

a** up back again,” she alleged.

She said her son was subsequently called in for questioning in relation to another offence and each time he attended court in relation to the issue, more charges would be added.

Brutus replies

Speaking in relation to the issue, Commander Calvin Brutus contended that the Police are in receipt of enough evidence to charge the trio, noting that a cellphone belonging to one of the victims was found on the person of one of the suspects.

He added that a statement was taken from the suspect, who implicated other perpetuators in the crime.

The Commander said this was the basis for the arrest of the other suspects.

“Other members of the same group who were arrested and charged, it goes

way back beyond these robberies,” he stated.

The Commander went on to state that the same group of young men were arrested and charged based on the allegation of a skidder wheel which was left at a tire shop.

Brutus added that the victim refused to proceed with the matter which resulted in the defendants not being charged additionally.

He also recounted other allegations of theft which were brought up against the suspects coming out of the Omai and Mabura areas.

Brutus said since the suspects were in hiding, they were not apprehended right away.

He added that the evidence against Calwyn Croal was highly circumstantial and not enough based on legal advice to proceed with the charge; however, it was enough for a wanted bulletin to be issued.

Turn to page 14

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saturday, february 13, 2016

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Editorial

Crucial days ahead for Syria

W

ith thousands killed, mostly civilians, and thousands more displaced since the civil war began in Syrian a few years ago, up until this week, the conflict in that country looked like it was far from over. Now the world can breathe a sigh of relief to some extent as there has been some progress, at least on paper, to have a “pause” in the ongoing civil war in the country.

After many months of negotiations, world powers have agreed to work out the terms of a nationwide “cessation of hostilities” in the coming week. This agreement even though it is considered mere “words on paper” is quite an achievement and a good start in finding lasting peace for the Syrian people. For many Syrians it provides a historic opportunity for a new beginning and for life to get back to some form of normalcy which they have been longing for. However, the days ahead will provide the real test and the world will be watching keenly to see if the key players involved are really committed to doing what it takes to ensure Syrians enjoy a peaceful and prosperous society.

It could be recalled that about four years ago, the Syrian regime had launched a violent crackdown on activists who were demanding more economic prosperity, political freedom and civil liberties. This sparked a nationwide uprising which eventually led to a full blown civil war with armed rebels, many of whom defected from the military.

Thousands of Syrians have died in the process, and countless numbers are fleeing as refugees into neighbouring countries every day. What is clear is that the longer this fighting goes on, the more people will be killed and many more will suffer.

The international community has so far taken a number of measures to bring an end to the conflict, but have been largely unsuccessful up until this week when a nationwide ceasefire agreement was signed.

Throughout the uprising, the Syrian Government has referred to the opposition as terrorists trying to destabilise the country. But opposition leaders say that’s just the regime’s way of justifying the attacks. While the accusations between Government and opposition forces continue as to who and what is responsible for the high levels of violence, the humanitarian crisis is worsening by the day as thousands are suffering and desperately in need of aid.

A note to the media issued by a UN spokesperson set out the details of the agreement reached in Munich by the ISSG – the International Syria Support Group working since November to secure a broader ceasefire and Syrian political negotiations – comprising the Arab League, the European Union, the United Nations, and 17 countries including the United States and Russia.

During that week, an ISSG task force will develop relevant modalities. The ISSG also agreed that a cessation of hostilities should apply to any party currently engaged in military or paramilitary hostilities against any other parties other than groups designated as terrorist organisations by the UN Security Council.

That said, the key beneficiaries of this historic agreement are the civilians who have been enduring tremendous suffering since the war started. Not only is the agreement considered to be an important first step in bringing peace, it now makes it possible for international development partners and groups to take aid to those desperately in need.

Some Syrian cities have been cut off from humanitarian aid for over a year because of fighting. The UN has reported that hundreds of thousands of civilians in other parts of Syria are also facing dire humanitarian conditions, particularly those under sieges imposed both by Government forces and affiliated armed groups, and by armed opposition groups.

As stated earlier, even though this agreement is only “progress on paper”, over the next few days, it will be confirmed whether Syria’s Government and opposition forces are ready to provide access denied for so long so that persons can access aid.

The coming days will test the commitment of all outside players, as well as Syrians on all sides. Ending Syria’s devastating war will still take greater commitment from everyone involved. The ceasefire plan was ambitious and necessary but the real test would be whether the various parties will honour the commitments.

Volcanic lightning is seen at an eruption of Mount Sakurajima, in this photo taken from Tarumizu city, Kagoshima prefecture, Southwestern Japan on February 5. A Japanese volcano about 50 km (30 miles) from a nuclear plant erupted, Japan's Meteorological Agency said, sending fountains of lava into the night sky (Reuters)

Repainting Govt properties an ominous sign Dear Editor, The United Republican Party views the painting of state buildings and other properties (buses, boats, etc) of the party colour of the ruling APNU/AFC as an ominous sign of a return of the bad old days of Party Paramountcy – the ruling party was paramount over government institutions as enunciated by the dictator Forbes Burnham.

People must not take this process of yellowing and greening very lightly; it could be the start of the rise of a creeping dictatorship.

The public should pay heed to history as we are heading for a repeat of the past, and take steps to stop the abuses.

It will be recalled that PNC (now APNU) flew the ruling party flag over government buildings, includ-

ing the Court of Appeal, and public places often replacing the national flag.

At first, during the early 1970s, when the PNC flag made its appearance over public institutions, it appeared as a minor, innocuous matter and then it took a life of its own with the institutionalisation of the ethnic fascist dictatorship.

It will be remembered that staff at government offices were ordered to dress in PNC colours and also government employees were mandated to show up at party meetings where attendance was taken.

Those who did not attend PNC meetings and showed proof of attendance were victimised (denied pay and or promotion). Is our country on course for a repeat?

The ruling APNU-AFC coalition has painted state

properties in their party colours – green and yellow or green (dominance of APNU) alone. When the matter was brought to the attention of Parliament, the Speaker and ruling MPs said the colours were part of the Guyana Flag approving of the actions of the ruling dispensation.

The Speaker gagged complainants and allowed no discussion on the matter.

The Speaker is acting in a high-handed manner, recalling the days of PNC dominance when the Speaker did not allow critique of the regime.

Regardless of how the PNC-affiliated Speaker feels, assets of the State should not bear partisan colours, and he should not censure complaints about abuses of power.

With all the abuses of

the PPP/C, it never sought to paint government buildings with the party colour.

The APNU/AFC should desist from this abominable practice.

Guyana is in the midst of an election and state assets should not be used for electioneering purposes.

It is noted that when the coalition parties were in opposition, they had complained about PPP abuses of state assets for election campaign gains.

The two parties are doing the exact same as PPP/C – no change, just exchange!

Painting public property with APNU/AFC colours is to be partisan and unfair to the other parties. Greening and yellowing of Guyana’s assets must be condemned.

Vishnu Bandhu, Leader, URP

Anti-money laundering crazy Dear Editors, The passing of the recent Anti-money laundering bill was inevitable. But the legislation seems to have opened the Pandora’s Box for those who have to enforce the legislation.

In Guyana, enforcers of the law have a penchant for extremism. The print media carried a second instance where someone was arrested at the airport for having

an undisclosed amount of jewellery.

The medium also noted that businessmen are worried as to whether SOCU is operating under the Customs Act. It is not long from now before the Jewellers Association starts to speak out.

If one were to poll our citizens one will recognise the serious reservations which exist with the way things

are being done these days.

I am “non-aligned” politically but have close relations on both sides of the racial and political spectrum. I am aware of the loss of some goodwill towards the present administration, even from among many of its affiliates, particularly among the proverbial middle class.

I would be bold to suggest to His Excellency not to throw away the baby with

the bath water. My readings tell me that Burnham did that and Guyana became the poorest nation in this hemisphere.

He has many advisors who have their own agenda. Let us not go down that path again. Most Guyanese will suffer. This is not a time to be the ostrich.

Yours Ready, Charles Selman

guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, february 13, 2016

Sugar still has a sweet future Dear Editor, I wish to disagree with a letter by George Daniels titled “Sugar future is long gone” on the ground that the main thrust of his submission rests upon the premise of low and declining global sugar consumption.

I wish to point out that the data does not lend credence to the assertion made.

The facts are, according to Czarnikow, that global sugar consumption was 179.1 million tonnes in 2013/14 and 183.1 million tonnes in 2014/15, and it is expected to rise to 186.1 million tonnes in 2015/16.

The APNU/AFC Parliamentarian, Charrandas Persaud in defending recently the Government in the National Assembly in bringing about the soon-to-be demise of

Wales Estate also pointed to the lower sugar consumption.

Daniels also contended that many sugar industries benefitted from state subsidies and this depresses the World Market Price (WMP).

Indeed, all of the more than 100 sugar producing countries in the world offer different forms of support or subsidy to their sugar industry.

In Guyana, there is moral and social justification for a sugar subsidy because of the people and the economy’s dependence on the industry. There is simply no alternative/s at this point in time to adsorb this large workforce should the sugar industry be callously abandoned by the Government.

In the Caribbean, Barbados, Jamaica and

Belize have all kept their industries intact.

The industry in St Kitts was closed prior to the 36 per cent European Union (EU) price-slash which had been implemented 2006 and Trinidad and Tobago ceased sugar cultivation since its petroleum-based economy has no need for sugar support.

An interesting piece of information regarding Guyana’s industry was pointed by the Caribbean Development Bank in 2014 when it assessed GuySuCo’s request for funding towards the Sugar Mechanisation Project. The bank in its assessment found that “it is economically viable for GOG [Government of Guyana] to continue subsidising and protecting the cultivation and harvesting of sugar

cane and processing of sugar for export and local consumption”.

Certainly, an institution as the CDB would have recognised our sugar industry not just from a financial perspective but from the broader economic and social aspects as well.

In Guyana, sugar holds many possibilities for a bright future.

Diversification around sugar into areas like co-generation, refining, distilling and other forms of valueadded sugar holds the key for once again a viable industry. Solidarity to the industry is very much critical to our country’s future and development.

Yours truly, Fredrick Yuvraj

Why blame used tyres?

Dear Editor, The Government, Ministry of Transport, and the Traffic Police must stop blaming used tyres for the high rate of accidents and do their job to prevent defective and unsafe vehicles from using the road.

Educate people about safety issues, penalise vehicle drivers for safety infractions.

If vehicle owners used their tyres until the canvas peels who is to be blamed for a blowout?

If vehicle owners overload their vehicles, with loads that way exceeds manufacturer maximum load

recommendation, who is to be blamed for a blowout?

It all comes down to the drivers not adhering to safety requirements, nothing to do with use tyres.

Most tyres have a 10year life span as recommended by manufacturers.

The manufacture is indicated on the sidewall, by month and year- 2 digit for each.

Most tyres also have a mileage life of about 80,000km at the lower end and 140,000km at upper end.

Car owners in Europe, Japan, Canada and the USA would change their tyres after 2 to 4 years, depending

on their wear and tear or at around 40,000km due to climate.

In general used tyres enter Guyana with more than 50 percent of its life. These can last another 3 years in some cases.

The GNBS usually visits used tyre dealers/sellers, check their tyre treads and age, tyres that are below certain requirements are destroyed, but no one checks the vehicles.

Only those that pass inspection are sold to the public. Most of these tyres are sold with a few days warranty. Vehicle owners also inspect tyres before pur-

HIV test kits shortage Dear Editor, The Minister of Health in the 2016 Budget Debate indicated that there was never a shortage of HIV Test kits in the country. Given my experience in December 2015, I will have to conclude that the Minister is a stranger to the truth or his incompetent advisors at the National AIDS Secretariat misguided him.

In mid-December of last year my pregnant wife went to the Georgetown Public Hospital for her second HIV test in the Prevention of Mother to Child programme and was told there were no Test kits at that location and she was further advised that she can go to a private institution for the second vitally important test.

I went to the West Demerara Regional Hospital and the National Care and Treatment Complex on Thomas Street and got the same results, NO TEST KITS for HIV. I was recommended to visit a Non-Government Organisation for the HIV test but got a rather strange feedback from the NGO.

The staff at the NGO indicated that they had HIV Test kits but that these kits were only for testing homosexuals in Guyana. This information was indeed shocking and speaks volumes to discrimination in our society.

I would like to ask the

Minister how he can allow such a discriminative practice in Guyana?

I am calling on the Minister of Health to resign with immediate effect.

Sincerely, (name provided)

chasing.

There is no safety check requirement for vehicles.

The Ministry of Public Works and Transport along with the Traffic Department and GRA needs to build inspection stations along the main roadways in Guyana.

Equip these with testing instruments and video.

Vehicles must be randomly directed to these stations for safety checks.

With thanks, Bhola Nauth

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We will fight for you!

Dear Editor, Stockholm syndrome is sometimes subtle. Even intelligent, forward-thinking folks can fall victim to it.

The basic premise is not that difficult – you starve someone of something they need long enough and when you finally toss them a few crumbs they clamour to it, all the while thanking you for your benevolence.

Take the city of Georgetown, for years it was left to deteriorate.

Mismanagement, internal conflicts and squabbling between City Hall and Central Government resulted in many crises over the years. Some areas in the city received only the most basic services from the council and when they did it was sporadic and inefficient at best.

Our beautiful city was reduced to nothingness.

Her spirit broken, her clothes torn and tattered and her citizens tired and frustrated.

Now, with a change of government and the relationship with City Hall somewhat amicable, the cleanup campaign has begun. Citizens are excited, and they should be, but dare I suggest that we deserve more.

As one member of Team Legacy puts it, “we are putting nice clothes on a sick body.”

Beyond cleanup campaigns, we need to transform our City. The job of City Hall extends beyond collecting garbage and

cleaning drains. These are the most basic services and should be provided continuously and efficiently.

Local Government is also responsible for formulating strategic policies that will guide the community, providing an infrastructural and planning framework that facilitates economic community growth in the community, coordinating with local agencies like the police to establish Community Policing Groups for better security in our communities, prompting cultural and sporting events, tourism and more. A councillor should consult with residents regularly, to ensure they adequately represent the views of the community at the council level and devise plans for improved service delivery to the residents in the communities.

On March 18, place your X for a group that will fight for you. A group with a plan that incorporates all of the responsibilities mentioned.

Cleaning is just the beginning. Cleaning is just the tip of the iceberg.

Georgetown needs leaders that will bring fresh ideas and a new approach to fix our forgotten communities.

Regards, Michael A Leonard Candidate for constituency 9 Lodge/Meadowbrook Gardens Team LEGACY

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Foundation

10 parenting habits to develop before your child becomes a teen

BY JESSICA BOWERS

I

t was during my 13-yearold’s annual check-up that the doctor informed me that my parenting days are numbered. “You no longer have the greatest influence over your teenager. In fact, you come in fourth behind friends, teachers, and his doctor,” he told me glibly. While I mentally threw a tantrum over his blasé inditement on my role as a parent, I considered whether I was willing to tuck my tail and move to the back of the line.

Admittedly, as I’ve moved into the role of parenting a teenager, the time that we spend together has been more restricted. Of course, that limits my overall influence, but I’m completely unwilling to watch from the back and hope for the best as my children traverse their most formative years.

Fortunately, by a heap of dumb luck, I have built some habits prior to the “dreaded teen years” that I hope will serve to carry my influence just a bit further and create a positive relationship with my teens.

1. Eat dinner together So much of successful teen parenting is about getting face time with them.

So many other things vie for their attention that parents

have to be diligent about getting noticed. Setting a habit to have one meal together every day carves out a time for all of you to reconnect.

2. Put away your phone at the table and when you drive I’ll admit that this decision was first driven

by fear and guilt. In other words, I felt guilty for wanting to surf Facebook while eating dinner, and I was fearful that if they saw me texting in the car, they would mimic that behaviour. Sometimes fear and guilt serve us well. This is a habit that has helped to set a standard for how we interact with each other in

the digital world. The times at the table and in the car are the most concentrated conversation moments of our day. I’m glad that we have all learned to put away the gadgets and use that time to connect.

3. Set aside time to talk about their day

I’m sure you’re starting to notice a trend. When it comes to teens, the biggest challenge is grabbing their attention. Before the busyness of high school hits, make sure you have a habit of checking in with each other every day. Maybe it’s through text or email, but make it consistent. When your grown child calls you

every Sunday, you’ll thank yourself for the effort.

4. Make physical contact “Mother of Family Therapy” psychotherapist Virginia Satir said that people “need four hugs a day for survival, eight hugs a day for maintenance, and 12 hugs a day for growth.”

Teenagers are definitely growing in so many ways, but they’re not often cuddly.

As children hit the preteen years, make an effort to find new ways to keep the physical contact up. Maybe it’s a quick scratch on the back or a smoothing of the hair. It doesn’t have to be prolonged, but it has to be present.

5. Interact with their technology Technology is constantly changing, and consequently, blowing right past the parents of teenagers.

It’s almost expected that parents will be in the dark about the latest app. That is a dangerous place to be.

By the time they hit the teen years, children should be used to you knowing about what’s new in their tech world and checking on how they’re using it. While you’re at it, put limits on their technology use and keep that up during the teen years. (www.parenting.com) TO BE CONTINUED

Pace yourself: When you’re a parent, there’s no finish line

BY JENNIFER MEER

I

t’s approaching 22:00h, and the children have been safely tucked away for two hours. I should be safely tucked away reading or indulging in bad television, but instead, I am downstairs in our toy room furiously cleaning and sorting in anticipation of our once-a-month indulgence, the cleaning lady. I’m not a cleaner by nature, but I am a

sorter, and when propelled by the fear of the cleaning lady arriving the next day, it’s shockingly therapeutic for me to kill a good evening putting that toy room back together.

All toy condiments in a row. A full box of markers. All game pieces present and accounted for.

The cleaning lady is enormously helpful, but her job description doesn’t include

meticulous toy sorting, nor should it. But the randomness with which things get tossed if we don’t put them in the right place to begin with can often resort in not finding things for weeks or even months. This is completely our fault and almost always is not really a big deal. Honestly, we should put our stuff away on a daily basis, but we don’t, and it piles up.

And now I’m here.

I have found seven pieces of the Melissa and Doug pizza, and I feel like, as I search with bleary eyes, that the missing eighth piece is mocking my obsessive compulsive desire to find all the pieces to the set.

The thought that it might be perpetually unfinished irritates me. So many of our toys and so much of this stage of life feel perpetually unfinished. As a parent, you don’t ever really cross the finish line. Parents so rarely feel that sharp sense of satisfaction that children take for granted when there’s a natural start and finish rhythm to your life created by culturally imposed structures like school and bedtimes.

It’s nice the way childhood constantly gives you that slow drip of satisfaction that tells you when you’re done with things. You don’t realize how special and fleeting the feeling to cross something off your proverbial list really is.

Nowadays, I almost never taste that feeling—the one that tells me something is done.

I survey the room. Nearly all the toys are missing parts.

The rainbow colored rings no longer have a red. The doctor’s bag has some overstretched glasses and an ear checker thing, but the thing that checks your blood pressure has been gone for a while now.

Back when we put this room together for the kids, there was some order to it. There was a place for the cars, the blocks, and the baby dolls. I open the baby doll bucket and find the cash register with no money. Everything is just a bit askew. (www.parenting.com) TO BE CONTINUED

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saturday, february 13, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Gunmen terrorise, rob Blairmont family

Wales Estate closure

GAWU to intensify strike, protest actions ...cart off cash, jewellery – likely to go countrywide from Monday

A section of the protesting crowd at Belle West on Wednesday

T

he disgruntlement which continues to emanate from the thousands of persons who stand to be affected by the proposed closure of the Wales Sugar Estate will not go unnoticed.

On Friday, President of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) Komal Chand related to Guyana Times that “certainly soon another protest action will take place.”

“They plan for next week Tuesday… possible strikes and further protest action [are being] discussed and agreed upon,” Chand emphasised.

Workers at Wales are reportedly fully prepared to support the Union’s proposed strike action.

This publication has however garnered information which posited that all sugar workers are likely to engage in country-wide industrial action to intensify their stance against the closure, by standing in solidarity with their counterparts at Wales.

These measures would result in a halt to sugar production in Guyana which could have a drastic impact on the current crop and more significantly, the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Guyana Times understands that the grinding of cane has commenced at the Wales Factory. It has also been revealed that over 200 punts have been processed, which represents a significant tonnage.

This publication has also learnt that some factory workers are yet to be approached on their decisions on possible transfer to Uitvlugt or receiving severance packages.

This comes in light of the outcry which followed an alleged three-day ultimatum in which Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) managers demanded that workers make their decisions. These categories of workers included planters, spray gangs and the fertilisers.

After a meeting with GuySuCo on Monday, irate workers vented their frustrations with the media over the supposed ultimatum.

It was later revealed that GuySuCo’s managers hurriedly called in the workers for additional talks, where a one-month grace period to

make these decisions was given. This was said to be more aligned with labour regulations.

GAWU has continued to decry the fact that they have not been invited to discussions which involve workers and GuySuCo managers.

GAWU has continued to emphasise that this move has left workers without representation.

On Wednesday, the GAWU Branch Committee of Canal Number Two organised a protest at the entrance of Belle West which was said to have attracted around 600 to 700 persons who held hands and marched in solidarity against the decision to close the estate.

As residents, farmers and other supporters marched along the protest route, they showed adamancy against the closure with banners, while hurling chants which stated “Don’t close Wales Estate” and “APNU must go.”

Komal Chand described this protest action at Belle West as “another successful activity,” adding that “the crowd was addressed by a businessman, a cane farmer, the General Secretary of the GTUC and the General Secretary of GAWU.” The protest, which started around 17:00h, saw General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), Lincoln Lewis, likening the closure to “injustice” and called on the Government to engage in dialogue with the parliamentary Opposition. He also reminded protestors that the rights of workers are at stake.

To this end, Chand confirmed that as reported, 50 “temporary” workers who were sacked are still not on the job. “They have not yet been given back work,” he stated.

The GAWU President had earlier explained that these workers who were given “marching orders” should not have been classified as temporary.

“After three months, you need to confirm the employment of your employees or have them go and if they are to [be] retained beyond three months, then the employer and the worker has to agree [for] the probationary period to be extended,” the GAWU President explained.

Government confirmed the closure of the estate in January, following the revelation from a news report carried in Guyana Times. The reported rationale behind the closure was that this year would see Wales accounting for $1.6-1.9 billion in losses.

F

our men armed with handgun, knives and cutlasses on Wednesday evening terrorized and robbed a Blairmont, West Bank Berbice family, escaping with a quantity of cash and jewellery.

The robbery occurred at about 19:15h, moments after Shamshudeen Khan, also called ‘Fizal’, closed his grocery shop. From reports, four men confronted the businessman and held him at gunpoint demanding cash and jewellery. Speaking with Guyana Times from his Lot 23 No 3, Blairmont, WBB on Friday, he explained that after closing the shop, he went to get some fresh air but as he opened the back door, he was attacked by the four men armed with a handgun, knives and cutlasses. As they men confronted and ordered him to hand over jew-

ellery and money, they held his wife and two children (ages 7 and 8).

During the ordeal, they entered the shop, broke the drawer and took away about $500,000 and about $200,000 in jewellery which he kept in the kitchen.

They then went to one of the bedrooms, opened the wardrobe but came up empty handed. They then ransacked the room but found nothing.

The bandits then turned their attention on his wife and ordered her to take off the jewellery, and she complied.

After the five-minute ordeal, the men then escaped into a nearby housing scheme.

Khan noted that the men were not wearing masks and he could identify.

Nevertheless, the busi-

nessman vented concerns with the police response to the robbery. He claimed it took him 45 minutes to get through to the Blairmont Police Station.

He explained that ranks from the Fort Wellington Police Station arrived at the scene before those from Blairmont.

He is of the view that the perpetrators could have been caught had gotten on to the police. “The road is one way in, one way out and if I de get onto the police, I sure they could a set up a road block because I later hear that the bandits left in a car”, the man argued.

The police have since taken statements from the two adults.

According to the businessman, his two children are traumatised.

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saturday, february 13, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Bus driver’s murder trial

Accused denies murder allegations – says he was at home sleeping

J

ust under five years after Route 32 bus driver Balram Teekaram was murdered, the prime suspect who is on trial for the murder is still denying all allegations of being part and parcel of the crime.

Alvin Semple, a friend of the deceased, is on trial before Justice Jo-Ann Barlow and a mixed jury at the High Court on a charge which read that on April 13, 2011, he murdered Teekaram at Sea View, Anna Catherina, West Coast Demerara (WCD), during the course of a robbery.

Reports are that on the night in question, the bus driver was awoken by a strange noise in his home and upon investigating the source of the noise, he was confronted by armed men who demanded cash and jewellery. The men also held up the man’s son, Yogindra Teekaram while they beat the older Teekaram, shooting him in the process.

They subsequently made good their escape with $700,000 in cash, a silver chain, cellular phones, jewellery and iPods. The injured Teekaram was rushed to the Leonora Cottage Hospital and later to the Intensive Care Unit at Georgetown Public Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Semple was later arrested and charged for the murder.

The State is being represented by Attorneys Shawnette

Balram Teekaram

Austin and Tomeika Clarke, while the accused is being represented by Attorney Madan Kissoon. So far, the court has heard the testimonies of nine prosecution witnesses, inclusive of the son of the deceased. The defence presented one witness to add to the defendant’s sworn testimony.

Yogindra Teekaram, who is currently living in the US, testified via Skype, telling the court that on the night of the incident, he was awoken at about 01:00h when a cold object was placed to his ear.

He recalled that he was 15 years old at the time of the incident.

He further stated that when he awoke, there were two men in his bedroom; one of whom was holding a gun to his face.

He stated that the men demanded valuables, and he begged them to take such while sparing the lives of his family. He even promised the men all of their valuables, in exchange that they do not harm him or his father.

Despite this, the witness recollected that a few moments later a loud explosion was heard in his father’s bedroom and the men left. While leaving, he stated one of the men’s rags which they used to conceal their faces fell off and he recognised the intruder as “Alvin”, the defendant.

He stated that he could have positively identified the man as they frequently played cricket together in the village. He explained that he quickly went into his father’s room where he found his father unconscious in a pool of blood.

Meanwhile, the defence commenced their case with the defendant’s sworn testimony. Semple denied committing the offence, telling the court that he was at home with his aunt at the time of the incident.

Under cross examination by State Prosecutor Shawnette Austin, the defendant denied the allegation that he usually played cricket with the son of the deceased. The Prosecutor further put it to the defendant that he would frequently ask the deceased’s son wheth-

er or not his father owned a firearm, which he denied.

The only defence witness, who is the aunt of the accused, was called on Friday.

Dhanraji Gurdai, also known as “Leila”, testified that during the period of the murder, her nephew was living with her. She swore that on the night of the incident, Semple was at home sleeping.

The woman explained that she was sure of this as they lived in a small zinc house which only had one bedroom which they shared.

She went on to explain that due to medical ailments, she would have to use the washroom four to five times a night and when she got up at about 01:00h that morning, Semple was asleep on the bed next to hers.

Under cross examination, the woman stated that her memory was good and as such, she could testify that Semple was at home on the night in question.

However, when asked by the Prosecutor if she could remember the events of April 11 and April 17, 2011, she responded in the negative telling the court that it was too long ago to remember. With that, both the defence and prosecution rested their cases.

The matter will be recalled on February 17 for summing up and the ruling.

21-year-old remanded to prison for larceny charge

A

21-year-old man was on Friday remanded when he appeared before Magistrate Annette Singh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged for larceny.

Akeemo Franklin, a resident of Norton Street, Georgetown, stood before the court to answer to the charge which alleged that

on Wednesday, February 10, within the vicinity of Croal Street, Georgetown, he stole a gold chain valued $210,000 from Eon Peters.

It was reported that while the Virtual Complainant was walking on Croal Street, the accused came from behind the VC and snatched the gold chain before running away, Akeemo Franklin

which resulted in a chase.

The defendant was apprehended and handed over to the Police.

However, because of the seriousness of the offence, there was an objection to bail and he was remanded to prison and the matter was adjourned for February 26.

Woman placed on $200,000 bail for fraudent conversion

A

woman was on Friday placed on $200,000 bail when she appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with fraudulently conversion.

Chandroutie Tewarie, also known as “Nadia”, 46, of Diamond, East Bank Demerara, stood before the court to answer to the charge which alleged that between February 1, 2015 and April 24, 2015, she conspired with Gopaul Tewarie and other persons unknown to fraudently obtain the sum of $5,400,000 from Kamini Komal for a pur-

chase agreement of a Lexus SUV vehicle.

The accused was represented by Attorney Motee Singh who told the court that the transaction is a contract agreement among the persons involved which is still in process.

He further made an application for reasonable bail and requested that his client lodge her passport so she would not pose a flight risk.

However, she was placed on $200,000 bail and the matter was adjourned for March 14.

Eyew tness Diddling workers...

I

...in bauxite

n Guyana, as in the Caribbean as a whole, the political class emerged out of the struggle for workers to be treated like human beings. Plain and simple. Brought to provide labour on the plantations, the powers that be defined them as “workers” – like in “worker bees” – who were fulfilled to produce as much sugar as possible. Not “humanely” possible – just “possible”. Even slavery was justified.

You’d think with our politicians coming out of that crucible, they’d be a bit more sensitive not to jerking around workers, wouldn’t you? Well... not in Guyana. Look at what Trotman, Minister of Natural Resources (operating directly out of the Ministry of the Presidency) just told the beleaguered bauxite workers of Linden. In line with APNU/ AFC’s “Manifesto promise” they’ll be putting together a team to look into the “possibility” of establishing an alumina refinery at Linden!!

Well now you know why APNU/AFC still haven’t gotten that “First 100-day Promise” to enact a Code of Conduct for Ministers: THEY knew they’d be lying through their teeth.

No Code of Conduct’s gonna permit such blatant whoppers in Parliament. These are supposed to be “honourable” men, aren’t they?? Point is, APNU/AFC knows there ain’t no Alumina Plant on even a two-decade horizon. Didn’t Bosai promise one a few years ago? A billion dollar one?

If APNU/AFC were serious about Alumina – which is the Aluminium Oxide left after all the other muck (more than three times more than the Oxide) are leached out as “red mud” – then they’d know that cheap energy is needed for the industrial process. They don’t need no study to tell them that! We once had an alumina plant at Linden. In fact it’s because of all the power needed that the Canadians built a massive generating plant using heavy oil... and were able to give the folks of Linden free power.

So if they weren’t so inept, wouldn’t the government have looked seriously at Amaila Falls to generate power, which could have fired the Alumina Plant? But basically the politicians in APNU/AFC are just mamaguying Lindeners – so that they won’t lose out big time, comes the LGE in March? Amaila Falls would’ve been a win-win all around: getting US$80 million from the Norwegians, credits from the “mitigation” funds, carbon credits etc – and making an alumina refinery “probable”.

Not just “possible” – the weasel word, like Trotman was careful to use. ANYTHING is possible... even levitation. But something’s only “probable” if the conditions favour it.

By not creating those enabling conditions, APNU/AFC’s denying Lindeners their humanity.

...in sugar

Responding to GAWU’s claim that 50 workers were already dismissed at Wales, the Agri Minister is quoted as saying they’re “only temporary workers”. And that’s proof positive APNU/AFC sees another bunch of workers as just worker bees and not human beings. For years and years, sugar workers have been fighting this ghettoising of some workers as “temporary” – a category that is unique to sugar.

Anywhere else, you’re hired on probation and after, say, three months, you’re confirmed in the position with all the benefits and so on. In the sugar industry, you have to wait THREE CROPS!! And this in an industry that can’t get even a 50% turnout on a regular basis. But because of how they see sugar workers, there’s been no change from the old policy.

Which was – that used to be the time it took to “season” new slaves and indentured workers, back in the day.

So why worry about 50 “temporary” sugar workers.

They hadn’t even been “seasoned”.

...in rice

So what else can we say about this government’s attitude on rice workers. These are folks who created an industry entirely on their own, which today surpasses the sugar industry that dumped them here.

But according to the Government... they’re on their own. Into the abyss.

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

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saturday, february 13, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Spiralling crime situation

“Sweet taste of victory turning bitter” – Rohee …as Ramjattan fires back during budget debates

BY EDWARD LAYNE

T

he heated exchange that has engulfed the debates on Budget 2016 continued Thursday evening when Former Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee and his successor, Khemraj Ramjattan took to the floor respectively.

Rohee in a highly-animated 35-minute presentation chastised the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition Government for failing to present a comprehensive plan to fight the spiralling crime rate more than nine months after assuming office, despite giving the commitment prior to the May 2015 General and Regional Elections that they possessed the expertise and solutions to crime in the country.

Rohee lambasted the Government for not presenting a “holistic” plan to tackle the crime situation in the country, but rather resort to what he described as the “same old” platitudes.

“We heard about a national security strategy… up to now nothing… How on earth can a vision comprise of a security plan to be crafted in London brought to Guyana… and Operation Dragnet… there is no vision whatsoever. What you have is people trampling all over the Ministry of Public Security,” Rohee lamented, adding that the Government

Former Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee

will be “running on the spot” if a comprehensive plan to tackle crime is not advanced. “Unless you get the cooperation of the ministries in the social sector, you will not succeed,” he said.

Drug trade

Rohee reminded that the APNU/AFC while in Opposition claimed that the country’s economy was fuelled by the drug trade and is now behaving as though after eight months in office they managed to eliminate the drug trade completely. “One leading light in the Government when they were in Opposition mentioned time and time again to this nation that the economy is being driven by drugs, well in eight months it has stopped, in eight months it is no more, the drugs have disappeared, the

drug peddlers are no longer there, all of that has dried up in eight months, so the economy is not being driven anymore by drugs and the drug trade”, he posited sarcastically. Rohee continued, “and what is even more surprising Mr Speaker and Laughable, even though we welcome it, is the DEA (US Drug Enforcement Administration) is here, but the drug economy is no longer there… a new government is there and therefore, all the evil that were there when the PPP/ Civic was in government no longer is there, glory hallelujah, they are no longer there,” Rohee declared amidst smirks from the benches. Rohee also chastised the Government for not fulfilling its promises made in 2015, which received allocations in that year’s Budget.

He also lashed out at Minister Ramjattan for failing to honour his promise of rooting out corruption in the police force and challenged the minister to produce the evidence of one corrupt cop he has managed to root out of the force.

“Accidental genius”

Rohee, who is currently the General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) described Finance Minister Winston Jordan, as an “accidental genius” and noted that the description of genius ought not to be used whimsically, after several Government MPs described

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan

the Minister as a genius in presenting Budget 2016.

Speaking directly to other measures in Budget 2016, Rohee said that despite the rosy picture being painted by government, there is nothing to address the plight of hundreds of rice farmers, thousands of sugar workers and the hundreds of workers “witch hunted out of jobs” by the Government.

The former Home Affairs Minister argued that the government is trying to rewrite history by seeking to paint a picture as though the PPP/ C’s 23 years in office is worth nothing. He said that while the administration can dismiss the PPP/C and say the Party doesn’t have “intellectual property rights” to the many projects and programmes it is

advancing, they cannot wish reality away. “What we have is the PPP/C fresh out of Government… they have totally dismissed 23 years of experience… for them it is worth nothing… that is precisely why they will find governing a difficult task… [but] they are riding on the quest of the development policies of the PPP/C,” Rohee declared, while asking, “How on earth can you speak about national unity and social cohesion and at the same time dispense with a party with 23 years in Government?” On the question of the corruption charges, the PPP/C MP charged that the government will soon “run out of gaff” on the subject and will have to come with more than that: “They will have to find something else to speak about… the sweet taste of victory (for APNU/AFC) is turning bitter.”

Ramjattan’s response

But Minister Ramjattan in his response, declared from the unset that the increased crime rate was under the PPP/C administration and not under the coalition, even as the police reported Thursday that there was an increase in serious crimes for the month of January 2016.

Ramjattan, taking a dig at Rohee’s criticisms of his management of the Ministry of Public Security, declared that he took a stand on several issues,

unlike Rohee who did the opposite during his tenure. “I took a stand against police torture; I took a stand against drunken driving by ensuring there is a curfew which by the way is the law. I took a stand to police our vast borders in association with the Office of the President (Ministry of the Presidency) even if we had to use horses to do so. I took a stand bold and strong against illegal firearms and offered an amnesty, even though partially successful, this was a stand nevertheless.

Honourable Mr Rohee as far as I knew never took any such stands,” Ramjattan declared.

He however, noted that many of the concerns raised by Rohee during his presentation mere “largely meritorious” since there is indeed a difficult crime and violence situation in the country. “It is particularly during the last decade-and-ahalf where this crime and violence has become a legitimate concern for each and every one of us,” Ramjattan stated.

He listed low levels of confidence in the police and a “community culture” among the reasons for this situation. Meanwhile, the Public Security Minister said several strategies, including the National Drug Strategy Master Plan and the Suicide Strategy prevention plan will be incorporated to come up with “the best” strategy to fight crime.

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guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, february 13, 2016

News

PPP walks out on PM’s Budget debate…

Jagdeo to Govt: Respect parliamentary traditions

BY EDWARD LAYNE

T

he Opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) on Friday afternoon staged a walk out of the National Assembly in protest of Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo being denied the opportunity to be the penultimate speaker on the 2016 National Budget debates which wrapped up on Friday evening.

The PPP/C has been arguing that the parliamentary tradition has always been that the Leader of the Opposition being the speaker just before the Finance Minister wraps up the Budget debate.

However, in 2015, the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) used its oneseat majority to change those norms and now placed the Prime Minister as the speaker before the Finance Minister.

In wrapping up his presentation on the 2016 Budget debate, Jagdeo said it was his view that due to the fact that it was a short

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo along with other Opposition parliamentarians as they rise and walk out of Parliament

year for the coalition in office, that resulted in the deviation from the norm and the allowance of the Prime Minister to be the penultimate speaker.

“But having taken a stand last year, I said that the People’s Progressive Party will never allow members of the Government

to make us victims in this chamber because we are proud of the role we play in changing this country.

Once again, until this house fixes these problems, until the other side agrees with something that has become an age old tradition of this House, where the Leader of the Opposition is the penul-

timate speaker, we will not listen to the debate of the other speakers,” Jagdeo declared as he wrapped up his presentation.

As Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo was called to speak, the Opposition MPs, led by Jagdeo, walked out the chamber, prompting Government’s Chief Whip, Social Protection Minister Amna Ally to ask for the customary 16:00h suspen-

sion to be taken.

In an invited comment, a visibly upset Nagamootoo expressed dissatisfaction with the Opposition’s actions, describing it as a “defeatist strategy”, accusing the Opposition Leader of coming to Parliament in a “cuss down mode… [To] say almost nothing of substance about anything of importance to the Guyanese people.”

He expressed frustration that the Opposition did not remain to listen to his response.

“The Opposition Leader should be allowed to say all he wants to say as long as he wants to say, things that are irrelevant, damaging, malicious and speculative hearsay… anything that he says he wants to be able to say that and then pick up like a little spoilt brat… pick up his bat and say I am not playing anymore and he walks out. That’s the tantrum of a little boy, tantrum of very emotional and unstable person politically,” the Prime Minister said.

He said this behaviour is part of the Jagdeo’s “disruptive political agenda”, in an attempt to “destabilise the political stability”.

When asked by Guyana Times why the deviation from the normal practice where the Opposition Leader speaks just before the Finance Minister who tabled the motion, Nagamootoo responded, “I think that’s a matter you will have to ask the Speaker. I am not in a position to answer who he asked.”

Further, Nagamootoo refused to answer whether he is aware that the system has always been for the Opposition Leader to be the penultimate speaker, only to say, “you have been in Parliament too, you could decide too, I don’t know of any norm… it is very regular what is happening now it is proper and correct that the Government be allowed to defend itself if it is coming under this kind of attack.”

For decades while the PPP was in Government, the Opposition Leader was always respected and allowed to wrap up the combined Opposition’s position on the national Budget before the Finance Minister concluded the debate. The Opposition Leader, therefore spoke, after the Prime Minister.

Elderly Rupununi couple remanded for cannabis possession

A

n elderly Rupununi couple were on Friday remanded to prison when they appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged for possession of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking.

Wilfred Francis, 66, and Marcelina Francis, 58, of Tabatinga, Central Rupununi, Region 9 (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo) both pleaded not guilty to the charge which alleged that on February 10 around 22:00h police received in-

Wilfred Francis

Marcelina Francis

formation and went to their home where they were told of the suspicion.

During the search 5kg of cannabis was discovered in the back room.

The duo was represented by Attorney Motee Singh who said his clients are both pensioners and they are merely caretakers of the home. He alleged that the cannabis is the belonging of their granddaughter and her boyfriend. He requested reasonable bail while relating the serious medical conditions of his clients.

However, they were both remanded to prison with the matter transferred to the Lethem Magistrate’s Court for March 1.

saturday, february 13, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

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News

Stanley Ming installed as new GGMC Board Chairman P

hilanthropist and entrepreneur Stanley Ming was on Friday named Chairman of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) at an induction ceremony in the conference room of the National Library.

The new Chairman said he is pleased to be afforded an opportunity not only to serve the Board but his country. “We, as a nation and as a people, know what our respective roles are and we will… do it to the best of our abilities,” Ming promised.

He also said he has no intention of imposing his view and ideas on the Board, but is committed to working with the experts for the best of all Guyana and more specifically, for those in the mining sector.

“Our job as a Board for the GGMC is to unshackle; to give them the tools, to give them the authority, to give them the support to do the things that they know they need to do to make their organisation function to the best of its ability,” Ming explained.

The new Chairman and Board members were installed at their first official meeting for the year and induction ceremony. The 15 Board members and five observers, who represent various stakeholders within the mining sector were introduced to the public at the ceremony.

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman charged the Chairman and Board members to tackle the

Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman (centre, standing), Chairman Stanley Ming, (fourth from right) Acting Commissioner of GGMC Newell Dennison, (first, left) and some of the Board members at the installation ceremony on Friday morning

more demanding challenges hindering the mining sector and to develop a robust Mining Policy Framework to inform its long-term development.

Minister Trotman thanked the new inductees for not only agreeing to serve the Commission but the country, as he expressed optimism that this Board can deliver the change that is needed. In his address he pointed out that the mining sector is undoubtedly one of the principal engines of economic growth in Guyana.

Gold declarations for 2015 reached 451,490 ounces, far surpassing its target and contributing more than US$500 million to Guyana’s economy. At the same time, the minister said there are still a number of challenges hampering the sector that

must be fixed forthwith to realise its true potential.

“What is required, above all else, is a willingness to face squarely some of the difficult questions concerning this sector’s development. We know that we need to develop an overarching and robust mining policy framework that will position mineral development on the right track for the long term, followed by consistency and clarity in applying the framework in the years to come,” Trotman stated.

Against this backdrop, he laid out the mandate to the Board which he affirmed will include but not be limited to reviewing the organisational and management structure of the Commission itself. The Board will also be tasked with selecting and appointing a new Commissioner for

the GGMC and will be expected to put great emphasis on Occupational Health and Safety: “We are losing too many people to mining accidents.”

Other issues the Board is charged to address include making available higher yielding lands for all catego-

ries of miners, improving the use of modern technology, removing the use of mercury in recovering precious metals, and addressing the issue of mining on Amerindian titled lands.

Minister Trotman also charged the Board to work with the mining school to make the curriculum more relevant to the everyday demands of the mining sector.

“We also expect the Board to renew its focus on rare earth minerals… this is also very important. [With regard to] the protection of the environment, pay keen attention to it; too many miners - most miners - are literally just causing damage and moving on,” Minister Trotman said.

The Board is also expected to review and revise the Mining Act and Regulation. This will see the Board working closely with the Guyana Women Miners Organisation, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association and other stakeholders.

In addition, the minister

called on the Board to revitalise the “Hearing Officer” forum which appoints persons to listen to complaints from miners, increasing their chances of receiving speedy redress.

The new Board members include: Mark Nageshwari Waldron, Lochanprasad, Euliene Watson, Vanda Radzic, Workers’ Representative, GGMC, Terrence Adams, Representative GGDMA, Anthony Shields, Representative GGDMA, Urica Primus, Representative GWMO, Briony Tiwari, Derrick Lawrence, and Tom Dalgety.

The others are a representative each from the Guyana Forestry Commission, the Parliamentary Opposition, Guyana Police Force, Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Gold Board, Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs.

The life of this new board will expire on December 31, 2016.

Police conduct raids at Stabroek Market T

he Criminal Investigations Department on Friday arrested several persons known to the Police during a raid at Stabroek Market area.

The persons were tak-

en to the Brickdam Police Station where they were detained, questioned and subsequently released.

The aim of the exercise is to get rid of criminal elements, as well as seizing articles that might have been

illegally obtained.

While no one was arrested with illegal items, the Police are of the view that most of items stolen are readily available under the clock. These raids are expected to be conducted on an irregular basis.

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saturday, february 13, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Zeelugt carjacker Former Deputy CEO breaks his silence escapes from Police custody E M GPL multimillion-dollar fraud allegations…

BY ALEXIS RODNEY

mbattled former Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO) Aeshawar Deonarine has finally broken his silence on what he said were moves by Government to smear his character when allegations of fraud and misappropriation were brought against him.

Back in July 2015, Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson said revelations of a forensic audit carried out at the time had shown that officials of GPL, including Deonarine, had been siphoning off funds into their personal accounts from the PetroCaribe Fund.

Deonarine was immediately sent on administrative leave. The former DCEO was very dormant over the ensuing months, but came out Friday, seeking to vindicate himself.

In comments to Guyana Times Deonarine said over those months, he was “disinclined to address personal matters in the media, but the continuous imprudent statements being peddled by supposedly intelligent people leave me no choice but to break my silence and pen some facts that would hopefully enlighten those who wish to disparage my character”.

He said he would be “careful” since the issues that have attracted so much attention are before the courts.

According to Deonarine, the allegations by Patterson were new to him, in fact he was probably the last to get to know about the claims.

He however said each of those accusations are false.

According to Deonarine,

Former GPL Deputy Chief Executive Officer Aeshawar Deonarine

he never had access to the PetroCaribe funds and that funds the power company borrowed from PetroCaribe were paid by the Ministry of Finance to GPL’s suppliers.

As to claims that his request for remuneration increase was not approved, the former DCEO said his request was in fact approved by the board, the sole body with such authority.

“In accordance with company policy and procedures, all payments must be approved by a competent authority. Further, all payment instructions to any of GPL’s commercial banks must be signed by two board-authorised signatories, one of whom must be a board member and the other an executive manager. I have written evidence to support these claims” Deonarine said.

“A logical question you may ask is why I took so long to provide my responses. There are two reasons: First, I do not think that the media is the appropriate forum to deal with matter of this nature. Secondly, I really believed that the Minister

would have given me the opportunity to be heard.

In my opinion, an inquiry should have been held and I should have been afforded an opportunity to be heard.

If this were done, I am positive that this matter would have never become an issue.

Unfortunately, numerous attempts to have a hearing on the allegations have been in vain”.

He said he was not being given a hearing and with the upsurge in violent postelection crimes, and fearing for his family’s safety, he departed Guyana in August 2015 without any objection from anybody.

“I left instructions with my lawyer to take certain actions and to act as a liaison between me and an appropriate Government official, in the event that someone changed his or her mind and decided to give me a fair hearing”, he said.

The former DCEO said the first action his lawyer initiated saw him submitting a sworn affidavit in the High Court, which has his full overseas address.

“The affidavit was served on Minister Patterson, who is represented in Court by the office of the Attorney General. Several hearings have already been called.

(This matter is still ongoing, so I shall not make any comments.)”, he said He said it is puzzling, to now learn that the police do not know where he is.

“Surely, one of the pieces of evidence they sought to have obtained would have been a copy of my affidavit, which has my full address? Surely, they could have contacted my lawyer, who would have informed them that he was my legal representative and would be available to an-

swer any questions they have. My lawyer was never contacted was not even officially informed that I was being charged”.

Deonarine said he was earlier this year required to undergo an emergency operation which was followed by hospitalisation.

“I am recovering slowly but surely. Make no mistake, I have every intention of defending myself. I am one hundred per cent certain that I would be vindicated by the Court. Actually, I am thrilled that, finally, I am getting a hearing”.

Deonarine is facing charges which alleged that on May 7 and 8, 2015, he conspired to commit simple larceny of the sum of $27,757,547, property of GPL. Deonarine was sent on administrative leave after he allegedly transferred some $27.8 million to his personal account. He was also accused of paying board member Carvil Duncan a sum of $948,000 that was not authorised.

Duncan appeared in Court on January 26 last where he answered to that charge. Deonarine was not present in court.

An issue for his arrest was later sent out.

After coming into office in May last year, the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Administration found that close to $142 million of the PetroCaribe Fund was plugged into the operations of the State-owned GPL. This was realised after Government said it had found an empty PetroCaribe Fund when it took office and later launched an investigation.

oments after two men were pulled from a route 32 minibus on Thursday evening following a foiled carjacking along Clay Brick Road, Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, one of them managed to escape from police custody.

Upon their arrest, the two men were taken to the Leonora Police Station but one of them escaped while his accomplice was being interrogated.

According to information, a man approached a taxi attached to Travel’s Choice Taxi Service in Zeelugt, West Coast Demerara, under the pretext of travelling to Clay Brick Road.

The driver reportedly took the hire and drove off but another driver thought something was “fishy” and followed his colleague from some distance. Upon arriving at Clay Brick Road, the passenger indicated that he had reached his destination but as the car stopped, three other men surrounded the car.

By this time, the other car was close behind and upon seeing the lights approaching them, they escaped.

The taxi driver who followed his colleague told Guyana Times that his car was hijacked in a similar fashion on January 3 so became suspicious based on the demeanour of the passenger when he approached his colleague.

“As my friend drove off, I telephoned him and ask if he was okay and if he wanted me to follow him while telling him of my suspicions… my friend told me that he will call me in case of anything but I still followed him”.

He recalled when he turned onto Clay Brick Road, he saw the four men surrounding his friend’s car but they ran when they saw the vehicle approaching. The man said he and his friend contacted the Leonora Police Station and the Policing Group and made the report. The police searched the area but came up empty handed.

“Sometime after, a friend called me and informed me that two of the men might have boarded a minibus so in turn, I contacted the police and we blocked the minibus where he found the two men… one of them was involved in my hijacking”, the young man stated.

He noted that the same man who robbed him in January managed to escape from the police station and was not rearrested.

They young man further stated that after the incident in January, he became extremely careful when approached by the public, especially at nights.

He recalled that he was relieved of his cash, phone, and other personal items.

He recounted that he was taken to a bushy area in Tuschen Housing Scheme and robbed. During the ordeal, he was ordered out of his car and instructed to go into the trunk but he ran away. He was followed but was not caught.

The carjackers drove off with his car but abandoned it further down in the scheme.

Of recent, there has been an upsurge in carjackings but the perpetrators most times remain on the run although the police claim they are investigation the matters.

news

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saturday, February 13, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

High Court blocks Exec Jet Club Parfaite Harmonie, Bell West drainage systems being improved from utilising CJIA hangar

A

fter much outcry from residents in several housing schemes for the restoration and improvement of the drainage systems being utilised by those communities, a number of excavators have been deployed to several areas in Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WBD), and Belle West, Canal Number Two, WBD to clear the drains of those housing schemes.

These areas, particularly Parfaite Harmonie, are prone to flooding after the slightest showers. This is due to the buildup of mud in the drains and canals, as well as the clogging of these drains due to the deposition of garbage in these channels.

However, one resident of Parfaite Harmonie revealed that excavating the drainage channels will only improve the situation temporarily.

“The thing is, when they send these people to clear the drains… they dont do it properly and is back to the same thing again,” Vickram Persaud stated. He related that short periods of rainfall would usually lead to drains overflowing and yards being flooded with stagnant water. This, he stated, is cause for concern, since it usually leads to an increase in mosquitoes and other pests as well as foul odors which are health hazards.

The upset resident stated that while he is much appreciative of the efforts being made to improve the drainage systems, he is calling on the relevant authorities

One of the cleared drains in Parfaite Harmonie, WBD

to re-examine the drainage systems so as to efficiently develop a better plan. He explained that most of these drains lead to canals that are clogged and overgrown with weeds which make them a poor reserve for drainage.

Another resident, Vanie Singh, explained that she is very thankful for the initiative, stating that she is often affected by flooding as the land on which her house is built is very low and the drains are not very effective.

“Yuh see meh glad fuh this thing dig out… cause me problem is that meh land low and de drain them doan function,” Singh explained, adding that she would have to use crates and wooden boards to exit her yard after short showers as her house lot is lower than the level of the road. As such, when it rains, all of the water is drained into her yard as the mud build-up in the drain prevent the free flow of the water.

“We very happy fuh see them start clear the drains,

now all lefffuh them do is gi’ we some street lamps and clear the bush,” the woman stated. She went on to explain that along with the request for a proper drainage system, residents have been calling for the clearing of the bushes and trees from the unoccupied lots and the installation of street lights. Singh related that there are high incidences of robberies and burglaries in the area, adding that the perpetrators often hide in the dark corners of the streets and pounce on their unsuspecting victims.

This request comes at a time when the Government has budgeted approximately $5.279 billion to be spent on the housing sector this year.

Most of this sum is slated to go towards community infrastructural works such as the installation of electricity, pure water supply and distribution network, and construction of roads, drains and drainage structures in eight regions.

The hanger at the centre of the case between Gangadin and the CJIAC

H

igh Court Judge Dianna Insanally has prevented Deolall Gangadin from using a hangar at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) to continue the operations of Exec Jet Club, which is owned by Guyanese Pilot Khamraj Lall, who is currently now facing charges of money laundering and drug trafficking in the United States.

Khamraj Lall was charged in Puerto Rico in 2014, following the discovery of US$620,000 on his private Lear Jet when he stopped in the Latin American country to refuel. He has since been sent back to the United States where he is facing additional charges. Lall had obtained a three-year lease to construct a hangar at the CJIA from which he operated his activi-

ties; however, after the lease for the plot of land expired, the Government refused to renew it following the discovery of Lall’s illegal activities.

This ruling came after Gangadin misrepresented information to the court that he was the owner of the Club rather than the Pilot.

In its argument against the defendant, the legal representatives of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport Corporation (CJIAC) stated that subsequent to the expiration of the three-year agreement with Exec Jet Club in October 2015, a decision was taken not to renew it because it was revealed that Lall had been using his aircraft to commit acts of money laundering and drug trafficking. “In those circumstances, the CJIAC claimed that it was justified

in refusing to renew the licence for the hangar as the hangar and the jet therein had likely been used for illegal activities,” a release stated.

The High Court thereby denied Gangadin an injunction forcing the CJIAC to permit him to use the hangar for Exec Jet’s operations after it was revealed that Gangadin was only acting as Power of Attorney in Lall’s absence. “The CJIA claimed that by seeking to disguise Exec Jet’s true ownership, Gangadin had not been candid with the court and so was not entitled to an injunction,” according to the statement.

In delivering her ruling, Judge Insanally stated that Gangadin was dishonest with the court by assuming the position of the owner of the business.

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guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, february 13, 2016

News

$40M allocated to build domestic violence centre

Months after fatal high-speed chase

SOCU ranks to “come in line” as protocols now crafted — Ramjattan V C

lose to two months after a botched Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) operation which left three dead, including an Army Intelligence Officer, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan announced that rules have been crafted, which will govern the Unit’s operations.

Speaking during the 2016 National Budget debates, Ramjattan promised to make the six-page document public.

“The protocols have been already drafted… It’s about six pages of protocols as to how they are going to do their operations,” he said, adding that it is geared at ensuring SOCU members “come in line” with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Standing Operating procedures.

Ramjattan alleged that the former Administration never put protocols in place to govern the entity’s operations, particularly in relation to financial crimes.

SOCU was established in 2013 as a law enforcement agency to investigate exclusively, allegations relating to money laundering

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan

and terrorism.

However, the Unit’s mandate has since been expanded in recent months.

SOCU has been under heavy scrutiny from the political Opposition and rights group after a botched operation on December 30, 2015, involving a high-speed chase down Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown, left three persons dead – Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Sergeant Robert Pyle, his wife Stacy Pyle and the driver of a canter truck Linden Eastman.

Sergeant Pyle and a

team from SOCU were supposed to have been conducting surveillance on a home of former Head of the National Industrial and Commercial Investment Limited (NICIL) Winston Brassington at Cowan Street, Kingston, Georgetown, and became engaged in a high-speed chase down Carifesta Avenue with a vehicle occupied by Opposition Parliamentarian Charles Ramson Jr, his wife Alana Seebarran and her brother.

During the high-speed chase that ensued, Pyle slammed into a truck that was travelling in the opposite direction, resulting in the deaths of Pyle, his wife and the truck driver.

While the GDF claimed that Pyle had been on an official operation, there were reports that he was never instructed to get involved in any chase.

The Government has since refused to launch a Commission of Inquiry into the incident, prompting condemnation from politicians and rights group.

Meanwhile, SOCU has been involved in other

probes involving alleged money laundering and recently, the Unit seized more than $16 million in foreign and local currencies in two separate raids on homes belonging to prominent business people.

Back in November 2015, the Unit seized US$45,630 and €740 suspected to be the proceeds of criminal activity, from a Bulgarian national who they suspected was laundering money.

The Unit last Friday also seized an undisclosed quantity of jewellery at a local airport. This incident comes on the heels of a similar seizure conducted last month which has since prompted a multimilliondollar lawsuit against the Government.

SOCU Head Sydney James had disclosed that officials will be clamping down on money launderers, and in fact, a number of operations were launched last weekend.

Though SOCU is operating under the Anti-Money Laundering/Countering of Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Act, the business community is becoming more and more apprehensive about the impact these activities will have on their operations.

ictims of domestic violence will have an opportunity to get much needed support, as $40 million has been allocated in the 2016 National Budget to construct a centre to aid domestic violence victims.

This was announced by Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence in her presentation during the Budget debates earlier in the week.

This centre will provide domestic violence victims with the needed protection and security they require

while providing them with opportunities to be re-integrated into society.

Additionally, there will be the revision of the Domestic Violence Act (1996), which is intended to create easier access to justice for victims of domestic violence. Consultations have already commenced in this regard.

With the merger of the Women’s and Wen’s Affairs Bureaus, more policies and programmes will be employed to tackle the issue of domestic violence, Minister Lawrence stated.

Surinamese national fined, remanded for illegal entry

A

2 3 - y e a r - o l d Surinamese national was on Friday fined $20,000 and remanded to prison when she appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan charged for illegal entry.

Venety Scholler stood in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to the charge which read that on November 21, 2015, she illegally entered Guyana without checking in with an immigration officer.

It was reported that Police received information

about the defendant and when her passport was examined, it was discovered that there was no stamp, hence she was charged with the offence.

The woman who was present with her toddler in the courtroom, was questioned about the offence and she informed the court that she did not know since it was her fiancé France Albert who brought her to Guyana.

However, she was fined $20,000 and remanded to seven days imprison.

Lindeners protest alleged...

Croal was questioned in relation to the incident, the Commander stated, and the case remains open. Brutus further said the length of the trials were no fault of the Police since they are not directors of the Magistrate’s Courts.

“In relation to the allegations of assault, if that was so, then they should have come forward over a year now...if they are not confident in the office here, there are many other avenues... rather than waiting one year to say ‘my son was beaten’,” he stated.

Plastic bag over heads

The Commander said he would not confirm or deny the case of the plastic bag being placed over the youths head and the alleged beating, since he was not in receipt of such information. He said, however that Inspector Singh is targeted because he solves numerous crimes.

“What I know from look-

ing at our records, many of those cases that were being disposed of, many of the victims after being disposed of.

This is predominantly an area where you have break and enter and larceny and simple larcenies, where, the victims after being given back their properties they have a soft heart and say ‘I have back my stuff’, and they go and tell the Magistrate ‘we don’t want to proceed anymore’, because they have back their articles. It has nothing to do with the absence of evidence but the decision taken by the victims,” Brutus contended.

Drug trafficking

He added, “When it comes to drug trafficking, I know we’ve made quite a number of cases in this Division, quite recently... persons being remanded for possession, the very last case is 426 grammes right at Retrieve.

Why would Inspector Singh be a target? It’s because

From page 3

that is his area. Crime is Inspector Singh’s area so he has to be in the forefront in the tackle against crime.

We don’t want a community that is plagued with crime.

We need to see this community crime free so that citizens can be free...”

Meanwhile, Regional Chairman Renis Morian said numerous complaints of brutality came in from residents against Inspector Singh and called for an investigation.

He said Police brutality should not be encouraged since a region of peace should be promoted. He said he is prepared to stand up on behalf of residents.

Morian said there are countless reports that the Police Commander is involved, noting that he may be aware of the incidents if not involved.

The Regional Chairman said the issues are hampering with the region’s development.

NEWS

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saturday, frbruary 13, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Role of GINA, DPI clarified…

“They must cover the elected opposition” – President Granger

– dismisses Imran Khan's position

P

resident David Granger on Friday said the Government Information Agency (GINA), has every right to cover the affairs of the political Opposition in the National Assembly, putting to rest conflicting claims by his Director of Public Information Imran Khan.

The Head of State was at the time responding to questions on his weekly televised Public Interest Program, where he raps with local journalists.

The Head of State was stern in his position when he said that state run information agency has the responsibility to cover all branches of Government.

This he said include the affairs of Government and even Opposition while in Parliament.

“As far as I am concerned the Government Information Services, the Government News Agency must cover all three branches of government, Legislative, Executive and Judicial. The people of Guyana have to be better informed, and you cannot inform the people by depriving them of information.

“The people need to know and that is my policy. I’ve announced that policy while I was in opposition and I maintain that policy now that I’m in government”.

The Director of Public Affairs has come under fire for his recent remarks, which indicated that GINA was only required to cover the affairs of the sitting Government.

He was responding to criticisms that the National Communications Network (NCN) and GINA, were only highlighting news by the Government.

The coalition A Partnership for National

President David Granger

Unity/ Alli9ance for Change Government, while in opposition, had been very vocal against what they said were discriminatory practices by the then operations of the GINA and the NCN. Their cry was against not being able to have equal access to the state agencies.

The situation was so overwhelming that they jointly disapproved any funding being dispersed to the two entities, which they said at that time was spewing the work of the then People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government. the combined opposition had voted against close to GY$300 million in budgetary allocations for the state- run, National Communications Network and the Government Information Agency (GINA) and instead handed them GY$1 each in an historic session in the National Assembly in 2012.

The Alliance for Change (AFC) and the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) voted in favour of reducing the subventions that were allocated to these agencies from GY$81.2 million and $130.4 million respectively to GY$1 per agency.

Guyana, 89.5FM celebrate World Radio Day

BY ALEXIS RODNEY

G

uyana today joins the rest of the world in observance of World Radio Day, the day set aside by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) to promote the importance of radio in communicating information worldwide.

Despite being over 100 years old, radio is said to be one of the most popular ways to exchange information, provide social interchange, and educate people all over the world. It has been used to help people, including youth, to engage in discussions on topics that affect them. It can save lives during natural or humanmade disasters, and also gives journalists a platform to report facts and tell stories. The first World Radio Day was celebrated in 2012.

This year, World Radio Day is being observed under the theme ‘Radio in Times of Emergency and Disaster’.

According to UNESCO, Radio remains a mass medium reaching the widest audience in the world. It is also recognised as a powerful communication tool and a low cost communications medium. It is specially suited to reach remote communities and vulnerable people: the illiterate, the disabled, women, youth and the poor, while offering a platform to intervene in the public debate, irrespective of people’s educational level.

Furthermore, radio has a strong and specific role in emergency communication and disaster relief.

“There is also a changing face to radio services which, in the present times of media convergence, are taking up new technological forms, such as broadband, mobiles and tablets. However, it is said that up to a billion people still do not have access to radio today”, UNESCO said on its website Friday.

In Guyana, radio is playing a crucial role in education. In fact it is the only medium that existed in the early days of Guyana’s his-

John Lewis Styles going all the way for Valentine’s Day

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s Valentine’s for some envelope around the thought that clothing, accessories and perfumes are the ‘way to go’, John Lewis Styles is certainly making it easy for these persons to shop at ease and comfort from a wide range of gifts that will make this Valentine’s Day a lot more meaningful.

Whether one’s interest lies in cute dresses, classy eyewear or trendy shirts, John Lewis Styles has everything within this range and more, while still giving you the chance to enter a promotion to be a lucky V-Day winner that will make your day even more special and rewarding.

Guyana Times visited the store on Friday where there was visibly a lot being offered in observance of the romantic celebrations that has been engaging lovers since the begin-

The Valentine display at John Lewis Styles

ning of February.

One representative from the store explained that apart from the inexpensive gift items which they have handpicked to suit everyone’s budget, there is also the promotion where persons who spend $5000 and over are entered

to win a dinner for two at the Pegasus Hotel and a his and hers pair of Amazon tablets.

Late shoppers were urged to visit the store and be enthralled by the great quality and brands of items going at mind-boggling prices catered just for you and yours.

tory.

Families gathered around the radio for special programmes, particularly sport.

Back in 2011, many Guyanese were able to explore their option of radio stations when Government granted radio licenses to several individuals. Radio Guyana Inc (89.5) was one of those beneficiaries.

The station, since December 2012, has been producing programmes that reflect the ethnic and religious make-up of the country. Progressing into its 4th year, Radio Guyana is backed by a strong team of young vibrant minds who offer variety in content to satisfy listener demographics.

As we join in celebrating World Radio Day, we’re taking time out to acknowledge Radio as an incredibly valuable vehicle that is used to promote culture, love and positivity that touch lives and bring people together.

This is the mission of Radio Guyana.

We set out with our programmes and announcers to make your day and at the same time we pride ourselves in our ability to keep, particularly, the Indian heritage alive through music and content.

Ganesh Singh

“RGI’s Disability In Focus” facilitates the process of advocacy and sensitisation on the rights and abilities of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) within our society.

As a disability rights advocate my mission is to fight for a more inclusive society for all PWDs and this programme provides me with the best platform to reach out to policy makers and other stakeholders of the disability community.

As a daily show, discussions on topical issues re-

lating to disability, documentaries, live interviews and general information is shared with listeners.

On this World Radio Day I implore everyone to take a few minutes and reflect on the impact radio has made on their lives and the important and critical role it plays in facilitating information dissemination to the masses in our society.

Radio has influenced all of our lives in one way or another, whether as children or as adults. We all have learnt something from radio or depend on radio for our information. PWDs, more so persons with visual disabilities are most dependent on radio for information since most of them have reading challenges and radio is their only source of credible information.

Amar Ramessar

The morning is no doubt the most important part of the day, as such; getting the right start determines how successful the day can be.

Headstart, the morning show on Radio Guyana 89.5fm, a two-hour programme which starts from 06:00 – 08:00h Monday through Saturday is tailored specifically for listeners of all ages, providing them with that inspirational and motivational start to their day.

Headstart provides a rich variety of music, a daily dose of the profound wisdom of our Guyanese proverbs, along with their interpretations. More importantly, listeners are kept up-to-date with all the United Nations International Observances, along with all other major observances, weekly interviews with various persons of varying interests.

Headstart is hosted by Amar Ramessar, who has been with Radio Guyana

Incorporated since 2013.

The morning show also provides a great platform for listeners to interact live on the radio during the segment “Your Know you are a true Guyanese” – the segment of the morning show dedicated to jokes and short stories cast in the Guyanese vernacular.

As we observe World Radio Day 2016 under the theme, “Radio in Times of Emergency and Disaster”, Radio Guyana would like to reassure all our listeners that we will continue to strive diligently to keep you informed, educated and entertained.

Bindiya Takchandra

As we observe World Radio Day 2016, proudly I say that I am very pleased to be a part of team Radio Guyana. Just a while before entering this field, I developed a passion for radio as I was always wondering what exactly happens behind the scene.

As an Announcer, I can conclude that this is indeed the most amazing job ever. I come to work every day with the intention of putting a smile on the faces of listeners, motivate them, educate them, keep them updated and entertained and more importantly, help them build a great self-esteem through optimism.

It was always my dream to become a Radio Announcer and today I am living my dream, more so, I am exploring the beauty of this big dream!

I take this opportunity in encouraging each and every one of you to dream big, and make those big dreams become reality. Stand tall and stay positive. Always remember that life offers lots of opportunities of which you are capable of reaching out to them!

Corentyne accident

Driver in custody after family gives him up

T

he driver of the minibus involved in Thursday night’s smashup on the Corentyne Highway causing the death of a school child, is now in custody.

Officer in charge of traffic in B Division, Berbice, Deputy S u p e r i n t e n d e n t Bhodnarine Persaud told Guyana Times the driver was handed over to police by relatives after police turned up the heat. He explained that relatives became frustrated with the frequent questioning and took the wanted man in who, according to the senior officer, will be spending the weekend in custody.

At about 18:40h on Thursday evening a minibus slammed into a car and turned turtle several times before hitting a utility.

According to one of the passengers, the bus driver was trying to overtake a truck but collided with a car which pulled out of a gas station.

The driver fled the scene after the accident.

Most of those in the minibus were students returning from the Regional Schools’ Costume Parade finals held at the Albion Sports Complex,

Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). Nine of passengers, all students were injured, one fatally.

The dead was identified as Narvin Bachu, 16, of Crabwood Creek (CWC), Berbice. Bachu was a student of the Skeldon High School.

Those injured are Britly Tony, and Natasha Rambally, 14, both of Tagore Memorial Secondary, Venetta Arjune, 16, of CWC, Chendrania Rambally, 16, of Number 68 Village, Ruth Ramatar, 17, of Number 49 Village, Sabrina James, 16, of Princetown, Corriverton and Lakeram Dhanraj, 16, of CWC all of Skeldon High.

Most of the injured were treated at the Port Mourant Hospital then transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital.

Natasha Rambally suffered nternal chest injuries and fractures to her lower limb. On Thursday night she was transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) where she underwent surgery and was considered stable up to press time. Also sent to the GPHC was Ruth Ramatar, who suffered injuries to the head an upper thorax. Her condition was still

listed critical up to press time.

Meanwhile, Dhanraj told this publication that the driver was speeding and was overloaded. He said they took a minibus for the journey. They made arrangements for the driver to take them back. “He full the bus jampack, and then when we coming down, rain start to fall. We tell the driver that he got to slow down because he driving too speed and he didn’t slow down.”

Dhanraj said as the bus was toppling after the collision, Bachu and Natasha were thrown from the bus.

“When I catch myself I walk through a broken window and when I watch I see a guy he was like dead already.”

Meanwhile the dead child’s mother told Guyana Times the school had made arrangements to attend the costume parade competition but her son said he will go with friends by arranging their own transportation. She said on Thursday evening a teacher told her of the accident but did not disclose the sad news.

Bachu was expected to sit his CSEC in another three months. He leaves to mourn one brother, two sisters and his mother.

16 news

saturday, february 13, 2016| guyanatimesGY.com

Budget debates 2016…

Housing sector investment…

Jagdeo schools Jordan on $6.8B to be spent while a real “good life” budget creating jobs – Minister Sharpe-Patterson

BY MICHAEL YOUNGE

O

pposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo on Friday educated sitting Finance Minister Winston Jordan on the formula that the new Government could use the next time it decides to present a “good life” Budget to the National Assembly while explaining ad nauseam that budgets are about “people” and not “promises” or taxes.

Rising to speak admits thunderous thumbs on the desks in the parliamentary chambers from members of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Opposition, Jagdeo argued passionately that it was clear that the new A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC) coalition Government is not only out of sync with reality but missing the mark when it comes to satisfying the needs of the country’s poor, business and middle-income population.

During a marathon one hour and forty-minute presentation, the Opposition Leader wasted no time in pointing out the false premises, confusing policy positions, skewed economic underpinning and lack of focus of the budget presented by Finance Minister Winston Jordan.

Jagdeo, Guyana’s longest serving former Head of State and President, said that it was clear that the Government where living in a “dream world” following some of the presentations of Government MPs who themselves appeared to lack keen knowledge of the underpinnings of the estimates and the potential image some of the measures would have on the country’s traditional and nontraditional as well as emerging sectors.

Industries

He said that the Government was boasting about the creation of new and emerging industries but failed to say what those industries were exactly as many of them referenced by speakers all started under the PPP/C. “Let me tell you, the new industries that are being created now in Guyana.

We have help for the manufacturing industry, but that is to manufacture excuses, not wealth. So the excuses are oh, we found a bankrupt treasury… too much money is being smuggled out from gold… $28 billion was stolen through Public Procurement…we need Commissions of Inquiry before we do ev-

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo making a point during his presentation in Parliament erything, we need studies on VAT and the tax reform, every single thing…excuses. You are manufacturing excuses, that’s the only industry,” he remarked.

The former Guyanese President said that it was clear from the spirit and letter of the budget presented and several other developments that the Government is running a thriving “rent-a-service, get your taxes waved.”

He argued strongly that the Government was busy creating “jobs for the boys” as it evidenced in the hike in contract employees, the spike in the amount expended on ministerial travel in various areas and the spike in the number of advisors.

According to him, no jobs were being created for the masses but rather schemes and policy decisions in the form of inquiries to benefit special interest groups.

“All we can see Mr Speaker is a good life for a select few. Special interest won out in this budget… so we reduce taxes on alcohol but people will pay more for their vehicles,” he noted.

“Good Life” budget ingredients

Jagdeo again called on the Government to shift its paradigm and to listen to the cries of the poor and business sectors as he listed some of the ingredients of a realistic, sound and economically viable budget which can create a “good life”.

As a result, he requested adjustments to the budget to bring in line with its theme and the vision of the Government, arguing that a good start would be paying the Disciplined Services a deserved salary increase.

“Reduce the fuel and electrici-

ty prices to reflect the true tumble in oil prices on the global world market,” he remarked before calling on the Government to “change the restriction of the importation of used and/or reconditioned vehicles to under 12 years old, instead of eight years, from the date of manufacture to the date of importation.”

“In Guyana’s case, we saved US$200 million in 2015 in the cost of importing fuel…. that is an impetus to the economy… how can you say they are doing badly so we are doing badly,” he noted.

He lobbied again for the removal or change the restrictions of the importation of used and/or re-conditioned heavy-duty motorised vehicles, including trucks, canters, etc, to between 15 and 20 years old, instead of eight years from the date of manufacture to the date of importation.

Consistent with his earlier argument, the Oppositional Leader called for withdrawal of the ban of the importation of used tyres. Instead, expand the staff and strengthen the regulatory capacity of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) to ensure the quality of the used tyres.

Additionally, he called for Government to adjust another measure in the budget, explaining that that farmers and Amerindians should be exempt from the proposed increase in gun licence fees, since their livelihoods depend on their possession of firearms.

Jagdeo lobbied too for the removal of the environmental tax and reduction in the percentage increase for accessing a raft of licenses, while advocating a change in the tax compliance measure announced by the Finance Minister.

“Even with the inept policy measures, we have time to fix these things,” he declared.

He maintained that the Finance Minister has delivered what he called a “shot in the dark” economic policy which is under-impressive.

Jagdeo was the first speaker to truly address issues related to deflation, inflation, monetary policies and Guyana’s need to do more to push positive economic growth at a time when the globe was facing new and continuing economic challenges.

“It is a shot in the dark (economic) policy. It has no bearing on reality… if the analysis is absent or flawed, you cannot have a coherent plan,” the Opposition Leader said.

G

overnment’s proposed spending in the housing sector this year will result in direct investment in the economy of $5.4 billion with value-added impact of $1.98 billion. A total impact of the spending approximates to $6.88 billion. This is according to Minister within the Communities Ministry Valerie Sharpe-Patterson, who has the responsibility for housing.

The sector’s 2016 proposed spending will also result in employment opportunities for more than 1500 persons with various skills, Minister Sharpe-Patterson said. Among these will be engineers, architects, surveyors, foremen, operators, drivers, masons, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, welders, fabricators, mechanics and servicemen, clerks of works, accountants, data processing clerks, GIS specialists, auto technicians, security and checkers.

The 2016 allocation to the sector will also result in an increased demand for construction material such as sand, loam, laterite, asphalt, aggregates, cement, timber, steel, zinc and blocks, which will have ripple effects across the economy, the Minister stated.

The coalition Government is expected to spend approximately $5.279 billion on the housing sector, this year. Most of this sum (98.3 per cent) will go towards community infrastructural works, such as the installation of electric-

Minister within the Communities Ministry Valerie Sharpe-Patterson

ity, pure water supply and distribution network, and construction of roads, drains and drainage structures, in eight regions.

There is expected to be the execution of 75 low-income housing solutions (a per capita investment of $877,000); the distribution of 1000 new house lots (at a per capita investment of approximately $263,000); electrical distribution networks – new and existing – in 15 areas (in Regions Three, Four, Five, and Six); upgrades to 2.5 kilometres of roads to service 200 house lots (per capita investment of $244,000); upgrades to drainage system to service 361 lots, and 50 home upgrades.

The latter will see a total direct investment into the economy of $15 million, with an estimated added value impact of $4.2 million.

It will create over 200 jobs across the 10 administrative regions, the Minister said.

Valentine’s at Nesha’s Flowerland

W

hile some prefer to be subtle in observing Valentine’s Day, Nesha’s Flowerland continues to go all the way in ensuring that the day does not lose its meaning and zest for everyone who patiently awaits its arrival every year around February 14.

When Guyana Times took its camera around Georgetown to see what arrangements are in place for the observation of Valentine, owner of the Nesha’s Flowerland and her staff were all geared up and ready with their wide selection of gift items that would meet the standards of everyone.

From fresh flowers to chocolates, teddy bears to balloons, Flowerland has transformed its settings into one that will certainly bring the feeling of love and butterflies as you step

through its doors and become mesmerised by the red and white decor, and most essentially the affordable prices of the unique and eye-catching gifts.

Owner of Flowerland,

Nesha boasted that Flowerland “is the only place to shop for great presents on Valentine’s Day.” Additionally, the Valentine’s promotion is being held under the theme “Endless Love” where the public is invited to submit a 1000-1500 words love story that is worthy of capturing one of the three prizes of a years’ worth of fresh flowers, compliments of Flowerland.

Nesha encourages persons to take advantage of the special offers which are valid exclusively for Valentine’s Day, at either of their branches on Church Street or at the Giftland Mall.

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news

saturday, february 13, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

The Race to LGE 2016 Enfield New/Doe Park contestants ready to serve

BY ANDREW CARMICHAEL

A

s Guyana gears up for Local Government Elections (LGE), sixteen Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and three Municipalities will contest in Region Six, (East Berbice/Corentyne).

The southernmost NDC in the region is the Enfield New/ Doe Park which has a population of 3,450 and eight constituencies.

The A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Coalition and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) are the only contestants from that NDC. Both groups have set as a priority project, the restoration of the garbage

Tejwatie Arjune-Khan

collection system.

The Coalition’s lead candidate is Hazrat Husain while Tejwatie Arjune-Khan heads the PPP/C. According to Husain should they win at the LGE, street lights will be installed in each village and all drains in the area will be cleaned monthly: “We will be erecting bus sheds in all village and where there are bus sheds we will be maintaining them and we will try to promote youth, sports and culture by resuscitating clubs through grants from the government.”

Husain said they will organise a school feeding programme for the two primary and two nursery schools. He said efforts will be made to register each child within the NDC for them to have a birth certificate.

Both heads are confident of winning “We will also assist all of the adults to acquire National ID cards and Passports. We will set up an office where they can come in and we will full up the form free of cost and also ensure that we have a Justice of the Peace attached to our NDC to serve it.”

The coalition also hopes to boost agriculture by ensuring that the facilities farmers need are in place. As related to the development of children, Husain outlined

Hazrat Husain

that they have already acquired a bus which will be used to take children to school free of cost.

Speaking of the number one project, Husain said it will also include the cleaning of the three communal cemeteries. “We want to ensure that our community is clean and tidy and by doing that we will ensure that there is garbage collection on a regular basis.”

It is almost the same scenario Arjune-Khan says when speaking of their flagship project. However, she noted the importance of revenue collection if the new administration is to achieve any of its objectives.

“You can’t just depend on government subvention if you want to do anything.

You have to come up with strategies to get money and so I intend for persons to pay a little more on their property taxes so that we get money to get things done,” Arjune-Khan said.

She noted that focus will be on collecting the millions of dollars which are owed to the NDC by the Guyana Sugar Corporation and by the Berbice Mining Enterprise.

“We need money to build a sea dam because every day the river is coming in a little more, and we are the persons who will lose if nothing is done, so if we win that is something the residents can look forward to.”

She noted that the council will once again be clearing the vacant plot of land, road shoulders and drains while taking care of its own road repair as was done in the past by the NDC. “If the government wants you to have new tyres and not to purchase used tyres, you will need good roads to drive on.”

Arjune-Khan says focus will also be placed on the unfair system in the community which allows for some persons to have water meters and some none.

None of the two groups have started to campaign for the LGE as yet but boast that they have an excellent team of supporters.

Wanted man confesses to Diwali night murder

M

ore than three months after the Police issued a wanted bulletin for Trevor Anthony Amsterdam for the murder of Jermaine Simon, who was gunned down on Diwali night last year, he was arrested and has since confessed to the murder.

Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum told Guyana Times that the 32-year-old wanted man of Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was arrested on Friday evening at a house in Providence.

According to Blanhum, during interrogation, the man confessed to the murder.

Amsterdam has been on the run but due to the diligent work of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), they managed to apprehend Amsterdam. He is expected to be charged for the capital offence of murder. However, before that is done, the file will have to be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions for legal advice.

Twenty-four-year-old Jermaine Simon, former-

Pregnant woman could possibly lose leg following accident

N

atasha Williams of Grove, East Bank Demerara, remains in a serious condition in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Georgetown Public Hospital after she sustained severe injuries to her legs following an accident at Providence, East Bank Demerara on Thursday evening.

Hospital officials told Guyana Times that both of the woman’s legs are damaged and that doctors will have to make a critical decision whether or not to amputate one of them.

The official added that the baby is out of danger.

The woman was rushed to the medical institution on Thursday evening after the minibus in which she was travelled slammed into a utility pole. It was reported that two motorcars were racing along the East Bank Highway when one of them grazed the minibus resulting in the crash.

Williams, who was a passenger in the minibus, received the brunt of the impact. Due to her advanced stage of pregnancy, she was rushed to the medical facility without hesitation and admitted. Other passengers in the minibus who would have received injuries were treated and sent away.

Wanted man: Trevor Anthony Amsterdam

ly of Lot 46 Norton Street, Bagotstown, was riding in Bagotstown when a lone gunman rushed out of a yard and shot him to his head before escaping.

Simon was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries early the following morning. It was reported that earlier on the day of the shooting, the two men were involved in an argument, reportedly over a drug-related matter.

Meanwhile, the day after the shooting, the

Bagotstown house where Amsterdam was a tenant in the lower flat, was set on fire – an act which investigators believed was retaliation against Simon’s death.

Additionally, the 24-year-old deceased was wanted by the Police for the March 1 murder of Ryan Sooklall which occurred at Providence, EBD. Sooklall was shot and killed while socialising with friends in the neighbourhood, a short distance from where he lived.

18

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saturday, february 13, 2016

ARCHIE

Your actions will set the stage for what’s to come.

(March 21- Check out professional opporApril 19) tunities or courses that will allow you to change your vocation. Make decisions and follow through on them.

ARIES

Let the people around you TAURUS know what you want and (April 20- need. What you receive will May 20) touch your heart. The source of certain help will surprise you.

dilbert

Don’t share personal or fiGEMINI (May 21- nancial information. You are June 20) best off listening and observing until you have a better understanding of what’s coming down the pipeline.

CANCER

Peanuts

(June 21July 22)

Share your point of view and let people know where they stand. You will influence a loved one if you speak from the heart. Focus on causes you believe in.

Protect yourself against LEO criticism and don’t let some(July 23one rain on your parade.

Aug. 22) Recognize your skills and use them to bring about positive change. Make your actions a statement.

Love is on the rise and roVIRGO mance will bring a favorable (Aug. 23turn of events. Your intuition Sept. 22) will help you make the right decision and will lead to a series of opportunities.

Calvin and Hobbes

Breathe in every ounce of LIBRA (Sept. 23- information and experience Oct. 23) you can gather. What you observe will allow you to size up your situation and make the right move. Don’t give in to pressure.

SUDOKU

Emotions will skyrocket, SCORPIO making it vital that you put (Oct. 24Nov. 22) your energy to good use. Make plans to surprise a loved one or start a creative project that sparks your imagination.

Make a decision that will SAGITTARIUS bring about the changes re(Nov. 23- quired to prevent stagnaDec. 21) tion. Take the initiative to do what’s right. Change is necessary.

solution for Last Published Puzzle

Your confidence will preCAPRICORN cede you. Deals will be pre(Dec. 22- sented to you, and you’ll get Jan. 19) a chance to make improvements to your home or life that will promote a higher standard of living.

Problems with loved ones AQUARIUS (Jan. 20- will surface if you are pushy Feb. 19) or reluctant to compromise.

Tempers will flare quickly, and maintaining equilibrium will be necessary to avoid a dispute.

Show how much you care.

PISCES (Feb. 20- Lend a helping hand, but be March 20) honest about what you can and cannot do. Love is the best gift you can offer.

saturday, february 13, 2016

19

What the people say about the Pollard, Narine Guyana Amazon Warriors squad pull out of World T20 squad

T

he Guyana Amazon Warriors squad for the Hero Caribbean Premier League 2016 has been finalised, following Thursday’s Player Draft in Barbados. Since the announcement, there has been lots of talk about the composition of the squad, as the franchise seeks to lift the title for the first time. We spoke to a few persons and here’s what they feel about the squad.

Vishnu Ramjeet It’s good to have Guptill back, but I feel we could have done better at the draft. I’m not totally happy with some of the players, and I feel we should have never let go of Narine. He is a champion bowler in this format, and he should have been one of the retained players.

Narvan Singh The 2016 Amazon Warriors team is a decent one, good bowling and firepower.

However, key to doing well is retention of that great team spirit they possessed over the years. Would have liked to see a stable batsman in the middle should the firepower at the top falter, perhaps Darren Bravo. And preferred Bishoo to Permaul although a tough choice.

Rawle Wright First of all we need to support the team, so I wouldn’t write them off completely. Lynn and Guptill are very dangerous players, not forgetting Smith and Barnwell. For me as a cricket lover, it’s the bowling that is suspect, but as the saying goes the best team can lose and the worst team can win.

Adrian Persaud I think it’s a well-rounded team. Some good batsmen and bowlers, as well as some good all-rounders. I think the team will do well, and want to wish the franchise well during the tournament.

Abigail Brower I heard of a few of the players and while I don’t know much about them compared to the Chris Gayle’s Dwayne Bravo’s of the world I will still be supporting the Warriors.

In any sport team chemistry is important and once they have that they can pull of anything even if to me there is no major star on the team but it is nice to get back Guptill. I think losing Simmons was a big loss too.

Debbie Hopkinson After reading about the draft I’m not quite aware of most of the players on the team except for Guptill. We have no proven T20 star in the quad and it begs to question how far in the tournament we will reach. T20 is all about game changers and with the exception of Guptill when we compare the rest of teams we really have none but I will still be shouting go Warriors!

Vickash Nauth It’s a good team. Glad to have back Martin Guptill back, as well some other big names like Smith, Emrit, Lynn, and so on. Hopefully, we win this year and good luck to the Warriors.

Lamon Montouth I was a bit disappointed in the team especially after seeing we passed on guys like Shane Watson and Malinga, I don’t think we have proven match winners all we can hope is that the team gel and does well.

Guyana Amazon Warriors squad reads: Sohail Tanvir, Martin Guptill, Dwayne Smith, Chris Lynn, Rayad Emrit, Adam Zampa, Jason Mohammad, Christopher Barnwell, Veerasammy Permaul, Orlando Peters, Assad Fudadin, Anthony Bramble, Paul Wintz, Steven Jacobs, Steven Katwaroo, and Muhammad Ahsan Ali Khan.

W

est Indies have been dealt big blows ahead of next month’s World Twenty20, with both Kieron Pollard and Sunil Narine withdrawing from the 15-man squad.

A WICB release said that Pollard pulled out due to “lack of sufficient progress in his rehabilitative work”, while Narine’s reason was “insufficient progress in the rehabilitative work on his bowling action”. Narine is currently banned from bowling in internationals.

Allrounder Carlos Brathwaite has been named as Pollard’s replacement, though the WICB is yet to find a player to take Narine’s spot in the squad.

Narine had been reported for a suspect action during the third ODI on West Indies’ tour to Sri Lanka last November, and an independent assessment later revealed that all variations of his deliveries exceeded the 15-degree limit. Narine had earlier been picked in the West Indies squad for the 2015 World Cup, but also withdrew from that tournament to work on his bowling action, which was first reported during the 2014

Champions League T20.

Both Pollard and Narine had been picked in the initial World T20 squad despite not being given annual retainer contracts by the WICB. Pollard had even been controversially axed from the 2015 World Cup squad, though Michael Muirhead, the WICB’s chief executive, later stressed that every player had an equal chance of being selected for the World T20.

Pollard has not played any form of cricket since November, when a knee injury abruptly ended his Ram Slam T20 Challenge campaign and ruled him out of the Big Bash League. Both Pollard and Narine last turned out for West Indies on November 11, against Sri Lanka in Colombo.

West Indies are in Group 1 of the Super 10 stage at the World T20, along with England, South Africa, Sri Lanka and a qualifying team from the first round of the tournament. The squad will assemble in the UAE for a preparatory camp between February 22 and March 6, and will travel to India on March 7. (Cricinfo)

Lusignan beat Paradise in ECCC 40-over competition

L

Leon Morgan

usignan Sports Club defeated Paradise Cricket Club by five wickets last weekend when action continued in the East Coast Cricket Committee (ECCC) 40-over cricket competition.

Batting first upon winning the toss, Paradis Cricket Club posted 206 all out off 39 overs.

F. Jones led the way with 88, while A. Andrew made 51.

Bowling for Lusignan Sports Club, Kumar Bishundial

Kumar Bishundial

claimed 3-23, while Rajendra Naikbarran and Rajpaul Gopaul supported with 2-19 and 2-31 respectively.

Lusignan Sports Club then knocked off the target in 32 overs, losing five wickets in the process. Leon Morgan led the chase with a fine 76 not out, while Devanand Samaroo scored an even fifty.

Bowling for Paradis Cricket Club, J. Persaud picked up 2-47 off six overs.

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saturday, february 13, 2016

WICB/ PCL 4-day Cricket…

WBCA Inter-club U-19 competition…

Singh’s 88*, Permaul’s 47 rescue Individual performances Jaguars against Red Force highlight matches I T

By Akeem Greene

he in-form Vishual “Cheesy” Singh made a splendid unbeaten 88 for the Guyana Jaguars against the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force on the first day in the West Indies Cricket Board/ Professional Cricket League (PCL) 4-day Tournament at the Providence National Stadium.

Singh’s sixth First-class half-century was the benchmark behind the Jaguars reaching 204-7 at the close play with Devendra Bishoo at the crease on 02.

The highlight of the day was Singh’s 113-run seventh wicket partnership with Veerasammy Permaul to rescue the Jaguars at the precarious 85-6 to 198-6 when Permaul fell for a well composed 47.

Earlier, Captain Leon Johnson won the toss after play was delayed by early a morning drizzle, and chose to bat in overcast conditions.

The innings did not go as planned as West Indies Test opener Rajendra Chandrika was bowled by Rayad Emrit for 15 in the seventh over and fellow opener Tagnarine Chanderpaul (3) too was bowled by the lanky medium pacer who got the ball to move around just a bit, to leave the score at 18-2.

Assad Fudadin and Captain Johnson were the new batsmen at the crease and they looked to steady the ship by occupying the crease and slowly rotating the strike.

The introduction of debutant off-spinner Jon-Russ Jaggesar saw Fudadin hitting him over long-off for six as the West Indies Test player began to look more confident at the crease.

It was not long after Fudadin who seemed to have a liking to the spinner hit him yet again for a six in the same region as the Jaguars meandered to 45-2 in the 18th over with lunch soon approaching.

Seamer, Marlon Richards, who replaced Emrit at the Media Centre end brought the demise of Fudadin who played back to a delivery he

Veerasammy Permaul should have been forward to and was bowled for 18 to end the 29-run partnership for the third wicket.

Fudadin’s dismal saw lunch being taken with the Jaguars at 47-3 and Johnson on 11*. After lunch, new batsman Singh who entered this match as the second leading runs scorer in the tournament, got his innings off to a fluent start as he hit Jaggesar for two fours but unfortunately that then saw a downpour of rain to send the players scouring off the field with the score at 66-3 from 24.1 overs as Johnson moved on the 17* and Singh on 11*.

Play resumed but then another wicket fell due to a disastrous mix up with Singh and Johnson which saw the skipper being run out for 23 as the Jaguars slipped to 845.

Wicketkeeper Anthony Bramble (01) did not last long after as he went leg before to Marlon Richards; the wickets continue to tumble as Raymon Reifer offered no shot to a full delivery from Jaggesar and was out leg before wicket to gift the offspinner his first wicket as the score now read 85-6 from 33.5.

Permaul was the next batsman to the crease and batted smartly with Singh to take the score to 1266 at tea with Singh on 42 and Permaul on 17; the post lunch session saw 79 runs being scored from 24.4 overs and three wickets falling.

After tea, the duo continued their rebuilding effort as Permaul started the final session of the day in an auspicious fashion as he swept leg- spinner Imran Khan backward of square to four which brought up the 50-run seventh wicket partnership off 91 balls.

It was not long after Singh brought up his half-century when he guided Khan down to the third man boundary to reach the landmark from 104 balls.

Captain Jason Mohammed brought himself on next over and Singh used his to a delivery which pitched on the off stump and drove it through cover for four; next ball saw a shot even better as he used his feet again to drive through mid-off for another four to take his score to 62.

The Red Force began to look frustrated and were lagging in the field as after tea, the boundaries came in an alarming frequency.

But it was the Guyanese born seamer Richards, bowling from the Media center end got a delivery to rise outside the off-stump and Permaul after batting so smartly chased after it and was caught behind by wicketkeeper Steven Katwaroo.

His dismal singled the end of valiant partnership; Permaul who is more renowned for his left-arm spin spent 123 minutes at the crease, faced 94 balls to score 47 inclusive of five fours.

With the score now on 198-7 from 66.3, the off-spinner Jaggesar began extracting some vicious turn and was causing trouble for the new batsman Bishoo.

Singh who batted for 196 minutes and hitting twelve fours, ended the day on 12 away from what would be his fourth regional First-class hundred and this third of this season.

The truncated day saw 75 minutes of play being lost to due to constant rain delays ended when the umpires called the close of play 40 minutes from the revised scheduled cut-off time. Play continues today.

Milo U-20 School Football Tournament…

n preparation for the Guyana Cricket Board Inter-county Under-19 slated for April, the West Berbice Cricket Association (WBCA) bowled off its Interclub competition with the aim of selecting the best possible team to represent the association.

At the D’Edward ground, Blairmont defeated D’Edward by a massive 221 runs. After winning toss and electing to bat, Blairmont posted 300-7 from 47 overs.

Former Berbice Under-15 players Javid Karim scored 93 runs (2x6s, 12x4s) and Seon Glasgow Jr hit 63 not out (4x6s, 2x4s) and former Berbice Under-17 player Zameer Inshan struck 44 (4x6s, 3x4s) in Blairmont’s total Among the wickets were Hemraj Heeralall with 3-47 and D. Phillip with 3-82.

D’Edward were then skittled out for 75 with Saheed Bushgit top scoring with 18.

Former Berbice Under-17 player Rameshwar Somwaru was the main destroyer, taking 4-15. He was supported

T

Sunday’s action will see the match of the day possibly being between North Ruimvledt and Queen’s College.

Nevertheless, Saturday’s action will boast three other high quality match-ups with Bishops High School taking on School of the Nations, Central High versus South Ruimveldt and Carmel Secondary against Sir Leon Lessons.

Sunday as well will have some intriguing matches

with St John’s College taking on Tutorial High, Freeburg Secondary battling St Roses and Charlestown versus Mae’s. With the tournament moving deeper into its fixtures teams are looking to separate themselves from the pack.

This weekend will provide a look into the contenders and pretenders with just one round of group action left on the fixtures.

Action is set to begin at 11:00h on both days.

Seon Glasgow Jr

by Berbice Under-15 player Nigel Deodat with 3-13.

Over at the Bush Lot ground, Achievers defeated Bush Lot Rising Star by 69 runs. Achievers made 189 all out with former Berbice Under-15 player Titus Webster scoring 57 (3x6s, 3x4s) and former Berbice Under-15 batsman Kris Ramnarine hitting 45 (4x4s).

Zakeer Khan and Imran Khan picked up 3-15 and

3-40 respectively. Bush Lot managed to score 120 all out with Yugendra Budhoo scoring 42 (5x4s) and Dinesh Persaud making 18 (4x4s).

Ramnarine (3-21), Christopher Henry (210) and Randy Wade (225) were the leading wicket-takers. The competition will continue on Saturday with Blairmont taking on Paradise at Blairmont and Cotton Tree facing host D’Edward.

NPG Packaging supports UCCA 5/5 Mash tourney

Padmini Ramsammy of NPG Packaging and Plastic Inc hands over the sponsorship cheque to Vicky Bharosay, Treasurer of the UCCA. Also in photo are other staff members of NPG Packing and Plastic Inc

Round 3 of action T to kick off today he Milo Under-20 School Football tournament will continue with round three of action today at the Ministry of Education ground.

However, round three will feature a weekend of intense action as eight games will be played over two days.

Saturday will feature four games with probably the match of the day happening between Christ Church Secondary and Richard Ishmael.

Javid Karim

he much anticipated Upper Corentyne Cricket Association’s (UCCA) 5/5 Mashramani Cup 2016 has received financial support from NPG Packing and Plastic Inc. of Wellington Park, Corentyne, Berbice.

The one day cricket extravaganza is set for February 21 at the Number 69 Vikings ground, featuring 10 top teams from the Upper Corentyne area.

The 10 selected teams are Number 70 A, Crabwood Creek Sports Club, Number 72 All Star, Number 72 Cut and Load, Scottsburg United, Yakusari Caribs,

Number 69 Vikings, Corriverton Cricket Club, Number 73 Young Warriors and Number 48 Challengers.

At a simple drawing done recently, the first round matches are as follows: Game One: Yakusari Caribs vs Number 69 Vikings; Game Two: Number 73 Young Warriors vs Number 72 All Star; Game Three: Number 72 Cut and Load vs Number 70 A; Game Four: Corriverton CC vs Number 48 Challengers; and Game Five: Crabwood Creek Sports Club vs Scottsburg United.

The day’s action will start at 09:30h and a family

atmosphere is guaranteed.

Admission is $200, while children under 12 years will be admitted free. There will also be gate prizes to be won.

The president and executives of the UCCA wish to thank Surendra Ganesh, proprietor of NPG Packaging and Plastic Inc, for the company’s contribution towards cricket development and more so the Upper Corentyne 5/5 Mashramani Cup 2016.

Proceeds from this event will go towards cricket development at the youth level in the Upper Corentyne area.

21

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

For sale by lot: Lot (1): 2 bath tubs, bathroom fittings and fixtures & toilet set; shower fittings - $150,000 and Lot (2): 1 Dell desktop computer & HP scanner - $25,000. Call 225-2676 or 601-5285.

REPAIRS. TV, STEREOs, MICROWAVEs, AMPs, DVDs, WASHERS, INSTALLATION OF CAMERAS, ETC. 693-2683

One 6 inch dredge, one 4-cylinder MWM, one 3-cylinder MWM engine in working condition with all other complete equipment in good working condition. 679-3655 PLANT SALE 25 7-FEET PALMS, 15 ROSES, 20 SAFARI PALMS, CONTACT: 673-5546, 222-3066, 682-7257, 6790987

flowers Available: Fresh long-stemmed roses, fresh dried and silk floral arrangements, gift items, bridal boutiques and wreaths. Nesha’s Flowerland. 78 Church Street (opposite St George’s Cathedral). Tel: 227-3553/225-3315

immigration Immigration & Visa Services We handle all Canadian, USA and UK immigration and visa matters. Self sponsorships, holiday/ visitor’s visas, work permits, students visas, family, class, immigration forms, embassy enquiries, appeals for refused cases, US green card lottery, business class waivers, pardons, etc.

Get your visa approved. High success rate. Balwant Persaud & Associates.

Certified Immigration Consultants, 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings & Lights Sts) Tel: 225-1540, 622-8308, 655-3105.

Email: balwantpersaud@yahoo.ca

KEY CUTTing Professional Key Shop, 125 Carmichael Street, Georgetown.

Phone: 225-3923, mobile: 621-3249.

We cut any type of key, service and repair all types of locks. Get your extra key today.

optician

Da Silva’s Optical. For Your Eyes Only, Look Better See Better. Phillip A Da Silva OD, Shannon L Da Silva OD, Natalie Da Silva OD. 248 South Road,

spirituality Surinamese spiritualist. Resolving all problems. Money, love, blockage etc.

Call 223-6834/600-7719.

Suriname’s Astrology, Palmist and Hindustani Spiritual Healer, solve all purpose problems, 100% confidential guaranteed. Phone: 602-8997 HEPHZIBAH MINISTRIES 24 hrs Prayer Line 322-5081, 322-5738, 322-5788, 337-4510, 337-4259, 337-3070, 3375103. For healing, deliverance, financial difficulties, marriage issues call now. Jesus Cares.

Ifa Temple – Are you having serious problems and urgently need spiritual help? Call 621-0552 now. Email: anew-life@live.com SPIRITUAL HEALING. SICKNESS, EVIL SPIRITS, RELATIONSHIPS, IMPOTENCE, REUNITE LOVERS, PREGNANCY, JOBS, BUSINESS, BLOCKAGE, ETC. 612-1975, 693-5228 Surinamese spiritualist, resolving all problems. Money, love, blockage,etc.

Call 223-6834, 600-7719

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

TO let To rent one two bedroom house (top flat) back house, in kitty $40,000 monthly. Phone: 6093678 Leonora New Housing Scheme, W.C.D. Garage, Kitchen & Shower. Tel: 675-5998/268-2277. NO CHILDREN. Working Persons Only

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

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

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

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

LEGAL NOTICE LAND COURT. LAND REGISTRATION AREA: PLANTATION NAAMRYCK PARCELS: 113 being portion of ‘R’ lettered ‘B’ BLOCK: IX ZONE: EAST BANK ESSEQUIBO. The following application in respect of land at the above mentioned area is fixed for hearing before Madam Nicola Pierre, Commissioner of Title at the Land Court, Lot 39, Brickdam, Stabroek, Georgetown on Friday the 25th day of March, 2016 at 9:15 pm. App. No. 12/2014. Applicants: Nandaram Karamchand and Lakshmin Sukhu.

Address: Both of Naamryck, East Bank Essequibo, Guyana. Parcel: 113 being portion of ‘R’ lettered ‘B’. …… .......................……………………… For Registrar of the Supreme Court.

SUPREME COURT REGISTRY LAW COURT GEORGETOWN.Dated 11th day of January, 2016.

LAND COURT LAND REGISTRATION AREA: Plantation Parika. PARCEL: 2286 (Mutation of former Parcel 1723) BLOCK: VII ZONE: Right Bank Essequibo River.

Pursuant to Section 31 of the Land Registry Act, Chapter 5:02 the following Declaration of Title was made in respect of the Parcel of land herein mentioned situate at Plantation Parika being Block: VII of Zone: Right Bank Essequibo River as shown on a Final Plan by G. Samaroo, Sworn Land Surveyor dated the 23rd day of September, 2015 and recorded in the Guyana of Lands and Surveys Commission as Plan No. 62646 and (Land Registry) Land Registration No. 844. NAME & ADDRESS OF AWARDEE RANDOLPH LANFERMAN Of Parika Outfall, East Bank Essequibo. DECLARATION OF TITLE OF PARCEL 2288 (Mutation of former Parcel 1723) ACREAGE 0.261.

For Registrar of the Supreme Court.

SUPREME COURT REGISTRY LAW COURT GEORGETOWN Dated 3rd day of December, 2015 LAND COURT LAND REGISTRATION AREA: Plantation Friendship PARCEL: 358 BLOCK: XXV ZONE: East Coast Demerara. Pursuant to Section 31 of the Land Registry Act, Chapter 5:02 the following Declaration of Title was made in respect of the Parcel of land herein mentioned situate at Plantation Friendship being Block: XXV of Zone: East Coast Demerara as shown on a Final Plan by L. L. Rutherford, Sworn Land Surveyor dated the 6th day of May, 2011 and recorded in the Guyana of Lands and Surveys Commission as Plan No. 49987 and Land Registry No. L. R. 1540. NAME & ADDRESS OF AWARDEE: YVONNE GLASGOW Administratrix of the Estate of Charles Henry McLean, Lot

49 Friendship, East Coast Demerara.

DECLARATION OF TITLE OF PARCEL: 358. ACREAGE: 0.234. or Registrar of the Supreme Court SUPREME COURT REGISTRY GEORGETOWN Dated 25th day of November, 2015. LAND COURT. LAND REGISTRATION AREA: Plantation Zeelugt. PARCEL: 95 BLOCK: I ZONE: East Bank Essequibo River. Pursuant to Section 31 of the Land Registry Act, Chapter 5:02 the following Declaration of Title was made in respect of the Parcel of land herein mentioned situate at Plantation Zeelugt being Block: I of Zone: East Bank Essequibo River as shown on a Final Plan by G. Samaroo, Sworn Land Surveyor dated the 21st day of January, 2011 and recorded in the Guyana of Lands and Surveys Commission as Plan No. 49155 and Land Registry No. L. R. 445. NAME & ADDRESS OF AWARDEE: RAMKUMARI PARBATI MOHABIR Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo. DECLARATION OF TITLE OF PARCEL: 95. ACREAGE: 0.113.

For Registrar of the Supreme Court.

SUPREME COURT REGISTRY LAW COURT GEORGETOWN. Dated 13th day of November, 2015 LAND COURT NOTICE. ACQUISITION OF TITLE BY ADVERSE POSSESSION UNDER SECTIONS 106 AND 107 OF THE LAND REGISTRY ACT CH.5:02.

LAND REGISTRATION AREA: Plantation Naamryck. PARCEL: 64 BLOCK: IX ZONE: East Bank Essequibo River. NILWANTIE LEWIS also known as NILWANTIE SAMAROO and LEYLAND LEWIS both of Lot 17 Naamryck, East Bank Essequibo, have submitted an Application to the Commissioner of Title praying for a Declaration of Title in his favour in respect of the Parcel of land numbered 64 (sixty four) being Part of Plantation Naamryck, in Block: IX of Zone: East Bank Essequibo River as more fully described in the schedule hereunder: (Application No. 5/14 dated the 18th day of November, 2013). Attorneyat-Law for the Applicant is Mr. R. N. Poonai whose chamber is situated at Lot 153, Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Demerara. The registered proprietor of the said parcel of land is Alice Elizabeth Abraham of Parika, East Bank Essequibo, vide Certificate of Title No. 99/5. Any person desirous of lodging a CounterApplication or Notice of Objection to the said Application is required to do so in terms of the Act and the Rules appended thereto. Forms (2) and (3) at pages 90 and 91 are applicable.

Upon the expiration of the period of 1 (one) year from the date of publication of this Notice in the Official Gazette and a daily Newspaper printed and circulated in the State of Guyana, the Commissioner of Title shall fix a day for the hearing of the said Application. SCHEDULE Parcel 64 (sixty four) being Plantation Naamryck, in Block: IX of Zone: East Bank Essequibo River, containing an area of 0.3554 (nought decimal three five five four) of an acre. .................. ....................................... For Registrar of the Supreme Court.

Supreme Court Registry Law Courts Georgetown. Dated this 3rd day of December, 2015. LAND COURT NOTICE ACQUISITION OF TITLE

BY ADVERSE POSSESSION UNDER SECTIONS 106 AND 107 OF THE LAND REGISTRY ACT CH.5:02. LAND REGISTRATION AREA: Plantation Aberdeen PARCEL: 189A BLOCK: XVI ZONE: Essequibo Coast.

THAKUR of Aberdeen, Essequibo Coast, has submitted an Application to the Commissioner of Title praying for a Declaration of Title in his favour in respect of the Parcel of land numbered 189A (one hundred and eighty nine A) being Part of Plantation Aberdeen, in Block: XVI of Zone: Essequibo Coast as more fully described in the schedule hereunder: (Application No. 75/11 dated the 22nd day of September, 2011).

Attorney-at-Law for the Applicant is Mr. R. N. Poonai whose chamber is situated at Lot 153, Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Demerara.

The registered proprietor of the said parcel of land are Shiwranie of 96 New Road, Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara and Jawhir Khan of Columbia, Essequibo, vide Certificate of Title No. 91/12 and 94/70. Any person desirous of lodging a Counter-Application or Notice of Objection to the said Application is required to do so in terms of the Act and the Rules appended there-

to. Forms (2) and (3) at pages 90 and 91 are applicable. Upon the expiration of the period of 1 (one) year from the date of publication of this Notice in the Official Gazette and a daily Newspaper printed and circulated in the State of Guyana, the Commissioner of Title shall fix a day for the hearing of the said Application. SCHEDULE Parcel 189A (one hundred and eighty-nine A) being Plantation Aberdeen, in Block: XVI of Zone: Essequibo Coast, containing an area of 0.2319 (nought decimal two three one nine) of an acre.................................................. ......... For Registrar of the Supreme Court. Supreme Court Registry Law Courts Georgetown. Dated this 3rd day of December, 2015.

LAND COURT NOTICE ACQUISITION OF TITLE BY ADVERSE POSSESSION UNDER SECTIONS 106 AND 107 OF THE LAND REGISTRY ACT CH.5:02 . LAND REGISTRATION AREA: Plantation Naamryck PARCELS: 88 and 89 BLOCK: IX ZONE: East Bank Essequibo River. NANDALALL SAMLALL and JASODA NANDALALL both of Naamryck, East Bank Essequibo River, have submitted an Application to the Commissioner of Title praying for a Declaration of Title in their favour in respect of the Parcels of land numbered 88 (eightyeight) and 89 (eighty nine) being Part of Plantation Naamryck, in Block: IX of Zone: East Bank Essequibo River as more fully described in the schedule hereunder: (Application No. 117/2012 dated the 9th day of October, 2012).Attorney-at-Law for the Applicant is Mr. R. N. Poonai whose chamber is situated at Lot 153, Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Demerara. The registered proprietor of the said parcel of land are Etwaria Samlall, Vishnu Samlall, Seenauth Samlall and Nandalall Samlall all of Naamryck, East Bank Essequibo, in equal shares vide Certificate of Title No. 2000/161.

Any person desirous of lodging a Counter-Application or Notice of Objection to the said Application is required to do so in terms of the Act and the Rules appended thereto. Forms (2) and (3) at pages 90 and 91 are applicable. Upon the expiration of the period of 1 (one) year from the date of publication of this Notice in the Official Gazette and a daily Newspaper printed and circulated in the State of Guyana, the Commissioner of Title shall fix a day for the hearing of the said Application.

SCHEDULE Parcels 88 (eighty-eight) and 89 (eighty nine) being part of Plantation Naamryck, in Block: IX of Zone: East Bank Essequibo River, containing an area of 0.1301 (nought decimal one three nought one) and 0.0965 (nought decimal nought nine six five) of an acre, respectively. .. ........................................................

For Registrar of the Supreme Court.

Supreme Court Registry Law Courts Georgetown. Dated this 28th day of December, 2015.

2015 - HC - DEM - CIV - P- 1067 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE DECLARATION OF TITLE. Lynn Rutherford and Verbina Noeley Rutherford both of Lot 5 High Dam, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, Guyana, have presented a Petition for a Declaration of Title by prescription of the property described in the schedule attached hereto. Any person (s) intending to oppose the said petition must within one (1) month after the date of the first publication of this notice file in the Registry of the High Court in the City of Georgetown, Notice of his/her Opposition and an affidavit or affidavits in support thereof and serve a copy of this Notice and any affidavit/affidavits upon the said Petitioners.The said petition is accompanied by a plan of the said property which may be inspected at the Registry during office hours.

Sgd. R.N. Poonai, Attorney-at-Law for Petitioner. Dated this 9th day of November, 2015. S C H E D U L E: Sublot lettered “VB” being portion of Lot numbered 4 (four), (South of the Public Road) Plantation Rebecca’s Lust or High Dam, within the Farm/Woodlands Neighbourhood Democratic Council, situate on the East Coast of Demerara, in the County of Demerara and in the Republic of Guyana, the said sublot “VB” containing an area of 0.179 (nought decimal one seven nine) of an acre together with a right of way measuring 10 (ten) feet in width and

running along the eastern boundary of the said sublot and leading to the Public Road, the said sublot and right of way being laid down and defined on a plan by H. M. Amsterdam, Sworn Land Surveyor dated the 19th day of December, 2014 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 6th day of January, 2015 as plan No. 60502.

MEMORANDUM The Petitioner address for service is at the Chambers of his Attorneys-at-Law, Mr. R.N. Poonai and/or Mr. S. J. Poonai of Lot 153, Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Guyana.

2015 – HC – DEM – CIV – P -1238 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE DECLARATION OF TITLE Joseph De Freitas of Lot 8 Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara, Guyana has presented his Petition for a Declaration of Title by prescription of the property described in the schedule attached hereto. Any person (s) intending to oppose the said petition must within one (1) month after the date of the first publication of this notice file in the Registry of the High Court in the City of Georgetown, Notice of his/her Opposition and an affidavit or affidavits in support thereof and serve a copy of this Notice and any affidavit/affidavits upon the said Petitioner. The said petition is accompanied by a plan of the said property which may be inspected at the Registry during office hours. Sgd. R.N. Poonai, Attorney-at-Law for Petitioner.

Dated this 15th day of December, 2015. S C H E D U L E Tract lettered “JD” being portion of Lots eleven (11), twelve (12), thirteen (13) and fourteen (14) being portions of Plantation Sarah Johanna, within the Craig/Caledonia Neighbourhood Democratic Council, situate on the East Bank of Demerara, in the County of Demerara, in the Republic of Guyana, the said Lots numbered 11 (eleven), 12 (twelve), 13 (thirteen) and 14 (fourteen) being laid down and defined on a Plan by H. Rainsford, Sworn Land Surveyor dated July, 1846, the said the said tract lettered JD containing 0.2967 (nought decimal two nine six seven) of an acre as being shown, laid down and defined on a Plan by Desmond A. Weeks, Sworn Land Surveyor dated 21st day of September, 2012 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 4th day of October, 2012 as Plan No. 54030.

MEMORANDUM The Petitioner’s address for service is at the chambers of his Attorneys-at-Law, Mr. R.N. Poonai, S. J. Poonai and N. Poonai, of Lot 153, Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Guyana.

2015 - HC - DEM - CIV - P- 1049 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE DECLARATION OF TITLE. ALEXIA KIPPINS of Bendorff, East Bank Essequibo, Guyana, has presented a Petition for a Declaration of Title by prescription of the property described in the schedule attached hereto. Any person (s) intending to oppose the said petition must within one (1) month after the date of the first publication of this notice file in the Registry of the High Court in the City of Georgetown, Notice of his/her Opposition and an affidavit or affidavits in support thereof and serve a copy of this Notice and any affidavit/affidavits upon the said Petitioner. The said petition is accompanied by a plan of the said property which may be inspected at the Registry during office hours. Sgd. S.J. Poonai, Attorney-atLaw for Petitioner. Dated this 5th day of November, 2015. S C H E D U L E Sublot lettered ‘b’ being a portion of Block lettered “KI” being portion of Plantation Bendorff, situate on the East Bank of the Essequibo River, in the County of Essequibo and in the Republic of Guyana, the said Sublot lettered ‘b’ containing an area of 5.5145 (five decimal five one four five) acres being shown, laid down and defined on a Plan by J. Ramnauth, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 8th day of March, 2005 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 14th day of April, 2005, as Plan No. 37331. MEMORANDUM The Petitioner address for service is at the Chambers of his Attorneys-atLaw, Mr. R.N. Poonai and/or Mr. S. J. Poonai of Lot 153, Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Guyana.

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guyanatimesGY.com

saturday, february 13, 2016

GSSF elects new Board Machado to face Dharry of Directors at AGM “Hostile Territory” boxing card…

after Hibrigo pulls out U nited Stated of America-based Guyanese boxer, Elton “Coolie Bully” Dharry, will have a new opponent on the February 27 boxing card, dubbed “Hostile Territory”, at the Giftland Mall.

Dharry was down to face Israel Hibrigo, but the Panamanian pulled out of the contest this week, with no reason provided for his withdrawal. The Guyana Boxing Board of Control has since been able to strike a deal with Venezuela’s Felix Machado to be the replacement.

The 43-year-old Machado is a former IBF Super Flyweight champion, and has a record of 26 wins and 13 losses, eight of which have come in his last nine fights.

Members of the newly elected Board of Directors pose with the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education, Department of CY&S, Alfred King. From left are Nicholas Hing, Gerard Mekdeci, Mohamed Khan, Vidushi Persaud, Peter Hugh, Steve Ninvalle, Ryan McKinnon and Jagmohan Bassoo

T

Elton Dharry

Felix Machado

Dharry’s record currently stands at 19 wins, 12 by way of knockout, five losses and one draw. He will enter the ring on the strength of a 16-bout winning streak, stretching way back to 2010.

The 10-round bantamweight showdown will serve as a warm-up for the 30-year-old Dharry ahead of a British Commonwealth fight on May 21.

The main supporting bout will also be

a Guyana versus Venezuela thriller, as local boy Dexter Marques will face off with his neighbouring Spanish-speaking rival Freddie Beleno in a 10-round flyweight fight.

Marques, currently boasting six wins on the trot, has a record of 14 victories (5 KOs) and two defeats, while Beleno has 26 wins (15 KOs) and 10 losses, including seven in his last seven fights, dating back to 2008.

In the other fights, Trinidad and Tobagobased Guyanese Revlon Lake will face Miguel Antoine of Barbados in an eightround welterweight clash; Imran “Magic” Khan will meet Quincy Gomes in a 135 lbs all Guyanese contest; while Mandessa Moses will collide Anselle Norville in a fourround bantamweight.

Admission to the venue is $5,000 ringside and $2,000 outer ringside.

he Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Guyana Sport Shooting Federation (GSSF) was recent held at the Grand Costal Inn and was well attended, and members were given an opportunity to discuss the activities and plans for the Federation’s way forward to promote sport shooting in Guyana.

One significant achievement was the elections of a new Board of Directors,

a process which was supervised by Returning Office, Alfred King.

After what was deemed a “democratic and transparent electoral process”, the new board, which will function until 2018, was announced by King.

Vidushi Persaud is the president, while the Vicepresident is Mohamed Khan and Secretary Steve Ninvalle. The Treasurer is Peter Hugh, while

the Assistant Secretary and Treasurer is Ryan McKinnon.

Four chairmen were also elected to serve in specific areas are they are Steel ChallengeDr Pravesh Harry, Practical ShootingCaptain Roul Bhudu, Archery- Nicholas Hing and Trapshooting- Gerard Mekdeci.

Jagmohan Bassoo will serve as internal auditor.

R&R International 11race cycling on today

Riders will compete on the inner circuit of the National Park today

T

he inner circuit of the National Park will be transformed to a battle field today when the 25th annual R&R International 11-race programme is staged from 09:00h.

Organised by the longserving national coach, Hassan Mohamed, the day of cycling will pedal off with the BMX races, namely the 6-9, 9-12, 12-14 and Open, followed the senior riders engaging in the Juveniles, Mountain Bikes, Veterans and the feature 35-lap School Boys and Invitational.

Last year’s main race was won by the country’s leading rider, Orville Hinds of Team Gillette Evolution.

The Linden wheelsman had won the race in a time of one

hour, 35 minutes, three seconds (01h: 35m: 03s).

The other category winners were Jaleel Jackson (Juveniles), Junior Niles (Veterans Under-50), Sean Budhan (Mountain Bikes) and Davenand Kapilnauth (12-14 BMX Boys and Girls).

On Sunday, the action will switch to the roads, with R&R International also being the sponsor of the day’s activities.

The race will at 08:00h on the Western end of the Demerara Harbour Bridge at Schoonord, proceed to Bushy Park, Parika, and return to the point of origin for the finish.

Another Team Gillette Evolution rider, Marlon “Fishy” Williams, is the

reigning champion, having won the 2015 event in a time of one hour, 38 minutes, 59 seconds (01h: 38m: 59s).

Jamal John had won the Juveniles segment, while Junior Niles (Veterans), Keon Thomas (Mountain Bikes) and Marica Dick (Females) were the other category winners.

The top six finishers in the Open race, as well as the leading three in the other divisions will be rewarded. Six prime prizes will be at stake.

Managing Director of R&R International, Jacob Rambarran, himself a former cyclist, is expected to witness the road race on Sunday, and later assist in the presentation of prizes.

guyanatimesGY.com

saturday, february 13, 2016

23

DVA to host Coaches Refresher Workshop ― American Andrew Woolward to conduct session

T

he newly elected Executive Committee of the Demerara Volleyball Association (DVA) is rolling out plans connected to its mandate of ensuring the development of volleyball nationwide.

As such, the body has deemed it prudent to have a special interactive workshop specifically for existing coaches and persons who are interested in coaching.

The DVA Coaches Refresher Workshop will be held at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue, from 18:30h on February 17.

The DVA has teamed up with Andrew Woolward, a talented and successful volleyball player and coach with 10 years of coaching and 20-year of playing experience at various levels, to make the workshop a reality.

The focus will be on teaching basic techniques, drills,

planning sessions based on the time of season and exercises to prevent injuries.

Woolward holds a Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Long Island University, School of Health Professions and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Exercise Science from the Brooklyn College of the City University of New York.

He is currently the Assistant Coach for Women’s Volleyball at Hunter College of the City University of New York and is in charge of assisting with the overall coaching, supervision and organisation of a competitive NCAA Division 3 volleyball programme including skill development of student athletes, recruiting, mentoring and duties assigned by the head coach in compliance with CUNYAC, NCAA and university regulations.

Lawrence, Rose combine to lead Canada past Lady Jags

A

shley Lawrence scored three goals and Deanne Rose added two as Canada posted a 5-0 win over Guyana in the 2016 CONCACAF Women’s Olympic Qualifying Championship (CWOQ) on Thursday at BBVA Compass Stadium.

The result lifted the Canadians into first place in Group B on goal difference over Trinidad and Tobago, which rallied to beat Guatemala, 2-1, earlier in the evening.

Even though Canada didn’t equal the score of its previous competitive meeting with the Guyanese – an 8-0 triumph in the 2010 CONCACAF Women’s Championship – it turned in an impressive performance, while improving to 4-0-0 in CWOQ openers.

Rose, just 16-yearsold, put the 2012 Olympic bronze medalist ahead 1-0 in the 25th minute, instinctively using her right foot to flick in Sophie Schmidt’s header with her back to the goal from two-yards out.

With her first goal of the night, Lawrence doubled the advantage three minutes later. The 20-year-old West Virginia University standout netted by heading home a Christine Sinclair corner kick. Sinclair was the top scorer in the 2012 CWOQ with nine goals and three assists. She didn’t score against the Guyanese, but another assist was to come later.

Schmidt notched her sec-

ond assist in the 40th minute, threading a splendid through ball from the middle into the path of Rose.

After outracing defender Kayla De Souza into the right side of the box, the forward unleashed a low, rightfooted shot into the net off the far post.

Canada emerged from the break in an attacking mood and Lawrence was the beneficiary, striking twice more in quick succession. In the 46th minute, the 20-year-old used her head another time to power Rose’s right-sided cross into the back of the net and make it 4-0.

Lawrence, Rose and Sinclair linked in perfect unison two minutes afterwards to complete the scoreline. Once again, Rose delivered a right-sided cross into the middle of the box, allowing Sinclair to get position and lay off the ball for Lawrence, who drilled a right-footed from 13-yards out into the left side of the net.

Realizing victory was well in hand, Canada head coach John Herdman started to sub, eventually giving youngsters Jessie Fleming (17), Nichelle Prince (20) and Gabrielle Carle (17) their first taste of competitive CONCACAF football at the full international level.

Both sides return to action on Sunday, as Lady Jags take on Guatemala and Canada meet Trinidad and Tobago. (CONCACAF)

Woolward’s previous experience includes Head Coach Girls 18’s volleyball Coach at ALLSTAR Volleyball Association, where his responsibilities included providing skilled instruction and development of a competitive USAV volleyball programme in-

cluding recruiting, development and implementation of practice, camps, clinics and game plans, coordinate with assistant coaches, club staff, parents and club director to facilitate comprehensive implementation and compliance with GEVA and USAV Juniors regulations.

He was also the Head Coach of Men’s Volleyball at Brooklyn College of the City University of New York and was tasked with providing skilled instruction and development of a competitive NCAA Division 3 volleyball programme including recruiting, development and implementation of practice and game plans, coordination with assistant coaches, athletic staff and athletic director to facilitate comprehensive implementation and compliance with conference, NCAA and university regulations.

His coaching achievements include: Hunter College Women’s Volleyball (2015); Conference Champions; NCAA Tournament Appearance; Conference Player of the year; Conference Rookie of the year; three 1st team AllConference selection; one 2nd team All-Conference

Selection; Brooklyn College Men’s Volleyball- three CUNYAC semifinal appearances 2005, 2006 & 2007; two NECVA appearances 2005 & 2007; one ECAC appearance 2007 (a first in school history); one CUNYAC Rookie of the year 2005; five CUNYAC 1st team All-Star selections; four CUNYAC All-Academic selections; ALLSTAR Volleyball Association - 18’s Girls- Coached and facilitated the recruitment of five athletes to Division 1 programmes; Coached numerous players who are currently having successful careers at Division 2 & 3 programmes; two semi-final finishes at New England’s Winterfest Junior Volleyball Tournament (2013 &15); one Silver bracket winner at Lancaster’s Martin Luther King’s Classic (2014); and one GEVA 18’s Regional Champions (2015).

saturday, february 13, 2016

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

Milo U-20 School Football Tournament…

Round 3 of action to kick off today

WICB/ PCL 4-day Cricket…

Vishual Singh

Pg 20

Singh’s 88*, Permaul’s 47 rescue Jaguars against Red Force Pg 20

Action during round two of the tournament

Pollard, Narine pull out of World T20 squad Pg 19

Kieron Pollard and Sunil Narine will not be on the plane to India next month (AFP photo)

Lawrence, Rose combine to lead Canada past Lady Jags Pg 23

Two Lady Jags players seek possession during Thursday’s game

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