Guyana Times Daily - July 25, 2015

Major rice conference for Monday P12

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

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 2565

Saturday, July 25, 2015

PRICE

Waddell’s execution

Page 9

Merai produces alibi

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE: Guyana/Venezuela border controversy

Former P7 diplomat presses Govt ...insists Sean Hinds part of plot to frame innocent cops to attend Mercosur meeting

Law students, AG clash

...over “uncertain” Hugh Wooding agreement

Page 16

Sectoral Committees

Govt to alter composition to retain control P8

...reverses its prior change that favoured Opposition

A law student makes a point during Friday's forum with Attorney General Basil Williams at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown

State forensic audits…

State agencies not cooperating with auditors – Sharma Page 2

Govt, PPP hold talks on budget Page 3

Rice stakeholders urge setP10 up of development bank

…more aggressive marketing in Caricom

Region P11 10 gets clearance for TV Channel Granger raises P13 Venezuela’s threats at US conference

2 news

saturday, july 25, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

State forensic audits…

Rodney CoI

State agencies not cooperating Govt blanks lead counsel new contract ...forced to sit out final hearing with auditors – Sharma

A

n apparent ongoing “dispute” between State agencies and their respective contracted forensic auditors is the reason for many of the unnecessary delays in the probe into the various Government agencies throughout the country.

Junior Finance Minister Jaipaul Sharma, in providing an update to Guyana Times about the forensic audits, revealed that the major problem being encountered was the fact that officials from several of the agencies refused to cooperate with the auditors who were hired by the Government to conduct the relevant investigations. “We are satisfied so far that most of them now are on track. But in terms of engaging the various agencies, persons (forensic auditors) are complaining of a slow response by the agencies in getting up information. That is something I am not satisfied with … people in the organisations like the top brass are, somehow, for some reason, not cooperating as they should in supplying information, remember people depend on information to work, so if you can’t give them information, they can’t do anything,” the Minister said.

As a result of this conflict, many of the audits were being held up and the entire process ended up moving along at a slow pace.

Sharma explained that when he received reports of these complications, he immediately wrote to the respective Ministers for them to intervene and ensure the necessary information was provided to the auditors.

Thus far, Sharma confirmed that only the au-

Junior Finance Minister Jaipaul Sharma

dit into the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was completed. Previously, the Minister had reported that the audit into the EPA revealed that there were numerous offline accounts being “unlawfully” utilised by the Agency as the revenues earned should have been transferred to the Consolidated Fund.

Asked if the audit into any other agency was completed, Sharma replied in the negative. “All of the work is still progressing, nothing is final…most of the contract is finalised and people are now starting to work … It would take time for things to happen,” he said.

Reports to the public

Sharma explained that the audits were being done for internal purposes. “Our work is going to be that, as a new Government, we need to know what is happening internally within the Ministries … This work is for internal purpose,” he said. When the audits are completed, the relevant agencies would then be required to provide statements on the various find-

ings. In their comments, the agencies are expected to state their agreement or disagreement with the findings and present the necessary evidence to support their position.

When this aspect is completed, the reports will then be submitted to the Finance Minister Winston Jordan for review. Thereon, Sharma explained that the reports would be distributed to the relevant Ministries which would then decide if the reports would be revealed to the public.

Uncover irregularities

In June, Government had launched a series of forensic audits into several state agencies, with one of the reasons being to target those agencies, which, under the previous Administration, were allowed to remain as offline accounts and did not follow the correct procedure of having their revenues placed in the Consolidated Fund.

The main reason for the audits is to uncover irregularities that the various agencies may have been guilty of practising.

Asked whether the audits have uncovered any irregularities as yet, Sharma said it is too premature to determine. Some of the agencies currently being audited are the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL); Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC); the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC); the Guyana Gold Board (GGB); the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) and the Guyana Oil Company (Guyoil).

L

ead Counsel for the Walter Rodney C o m m i s s i o n of Inquiry (CoI) Glen Hanoman has opted out of Monday’s sitting of the Inquiry, saying that it was obvious that Government does not want him at that post.

The final sitting of the Inquiry has been scheduled for Monday and will run for some five days.

Participants are expected to make their submissions for the first two days before Commissioners move ahead with the compilation of their reports to be presented to President David Granger.

Hanoman, who was appointed Lead Counsel under the Donald Ramotar Administration, now says that he will not be participating in the investigation until things fall into place. He explained that his contract came to an end in April, a month before the May 11 General and Regional Elections.

He said that he was hoping that things would have fallen into place following the election. This has not happened, he said, and his countless efforts to contact both the Ministry of The Presidency and the Secretariat’s Administrator Hugh Denbow have been futile.

Hanoman explained that he could not participate in the hearing in that capacity without first signing a contract. He said as far as he sees it; the new Government does not want

Lead Counsel for the Walter Rodney CoI Glen Hanoman

him at the helm of the investigation.

The CoI was established in February of 2014 by President Donald Ramotar, and has as its main objective, ascertaining who or what was responsible for the massive bomb blast on the evening of June 13, 1980 that claimed the life of Working People’s Alliance (WPA) co-founder, Dr Walter Anthony Rodney.

Testimonies coming from the many witnesses so far have all suggested that the political leader was killed by the then People’s National Congress (PNC) Administration then headed by Prime Minister Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham. The PNC is also the largest component of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) coalition which is also part of the new Administration.

Meanwhile, Hanoman told Guyana Times that Government might be moving too rash with the investigation. His opinion is that this session of the sitting should be put off and be recalled and have the many vital witnesses still to testify, be heard. He spoke of Dr Rupert Roopnaraine; a very pertinent witness to the investigation has not yet given his evidence. According to Harmon, Roopnaraine had indicated to him that he had prepared a detailed statement, but had preferred to do so after the elections. Dr Roopnaraine, the now leader of the WPA, is known to have been a very close friend of Dr Rodney and is knowledgeable about his work. Hanoman said Roopnaraine’s testimony will also address every aspect of the Commission’s Terms of Reference (ToR).

The Lead Counsel spoke too of overseasbased Guyanese Vernon Gentle, who was integrally a part of the investigation of murder accused William Gregory Smith. He said too that there is still need for

a bomb expert to give evidence on the intricacies and functioning of bombs. He said Retired Major General of the Guyana Defence Force Norman Mc Lean, another critical witness, is still to be cross examined.

Meanwhile, Minister of State Joseph Harmon has declared that the staff members of the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry are prepared for next week’s sitting of the National Assembly. Following a visit to the Walter Rodney CoI’s Secretariat on Friday, Minister Harmon said that the staff seems to be ready for the resumption of the final one-week hearing, slated to commence on July 27.

During his visit to the High Court, where the CoI sessions are facilitated, Harmon pointed out that the Commission must be able to wrap up its work within the time period set by President David Granger. He added they will also be expected to prepare the final report in a timely manner.

The Minister urged the staff to maintain qualities which will be transferred to other commissions of inquiry that his Administration intends to set up as well as other areas of work countrywide.

Furthermore, Harmon reminded the Administrator of the Commission Hugh Denbow, that all the staff must receive their outstanding salaries.

Following a meeting on Thursday between the Minister and Denbow, Harmon had assured that all the staffers that are entitled will be paid. He further noted that when the tenth session of the Inquiry commences on Monday, the submissions will be wrapped up by the various Attorneys.

During the one week session, the Commission will hear final submissions after which they will have to compile their findings by a November deadline.

news

saturday, july 25, 2015

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, July 24 – 10:30h-12:00h and Saturday, July 25 – 13:30h-15:00h

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| guyanatimesGY.com

Govt, PPP hold talks on budget

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, July 24 – 09:10h-10:40h and Saturday, July 25 – 10:20h-11:50h

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery showers can be expected throughout the morning and into the early afternoon, with heavy rain showers expected in the late afternoon. Thundery showers are expected to return in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations.

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

Winds: East North-easterly between 1.78 metre and 3.57 metres per second.

High Tide: 10:00h and 22:27h reaching maximum heights of 2.26 metres and 2.27 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 03:30h and 15:36h reaching minimum heights of 0.92 metre and 0.97 metre respectively.

Saturday, July 18, 2015

LOTTERY NUMBERS A 01 04 11 15 17 20 24 Bonus Ball

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Wednesday, July 22, 2015 Daily Millions

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Finance Minister Winston Jordan meeting with PPP officials and staff of the budget office

S

ince its ascension to office, the Government on Friday had its first official contact with the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) to discuss this year’s budget, which will be presented to the National Assembly next Thursday.

The PPP has insisted since being ousted out of power that it was “cheated and not defeated,” and at times, referred to this David Granger-led Administration as the “defacto Government”. The Party has not participated in any official State function since the new Administration took office and has also boycotted Parliament.

However, with the budget slated to be read on Thursday, July 30, there are some suggestions that the Party might take up its seats in the National Assembly. In a Government Information Agency (GINA) release, it was noted that Finance Minister Winston Jordan met with members of the PPP to discuss the 2015 Budget. The discussions took place at the Finance Ministry.

According to the Finance Minister, the meeting which saw PPP’s General Secretary Clement Rohee and former Ministers Juan Edghill, Pauline Sukhai and Robeson Benn participating, “represents an opportunity for cooperat-

ing with the Government”.

Speaking with GINA, Jordan said, “at least there is some recognition there, that there is a Government in power and one you can sit with at the same table and agree on a set of policies and programmes or even not agree.” The Finance Minister further noted that the meeting provided an opportunity for the Opposition to give their input. “Their policies and programmes could be ventilated and programmes which the Government could consider in the shaping of the budget,” he said.

According to Minister Jordan, “We all live in this 83,000 square miles and so we should have an opportunity to represent our views, and have those views and policies be reflected in the programmes and policies that the sitting Government of the day makes and implement.” Finance Minister Jordan reminded, however, that, “at the end of the day, the Executive is responsible for the budget”. The Finance Minister and top Ministry officials have, and will continue to have, extensive consultations with various stakeholders with a view to completing and presenting the National 2015 Budget. The Minister, who is a highly qualified financial expert, had said earlier that he inherited some preparations for the 2015

budget but, the focus has since changed to reflect the agenda of the new APNU/ AFC Administration.

Guyana Times reported earlier this week that Government is likely to include in the budget stimulus measures that could help jumpstart the economy which has become stagnated ever since it took office, although the PPP/C believes clearer policy directions and an early move on the various transformational projects started under the PPP/C would be the right fillips at this time.

In addressing the slowdown in business at a recent meeting with the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Jordan was urged to consider a stimulus to boost the economy and the Minister committed to reviewing this proposal. He

also committed to ensuring stability of the currency, through appropriate monetary policies. The Finance Minister at the meeting assured the Commission that its proposals would be given consideration in the formulation of either the budget, and said that Government’s current priority was the implementation of its 100-day plan with an attendant focus on increasing pensions and salaries.

In addition to calling for a stimulus package, the PSC has recommended reform of the tax system and the Minister informed that the Government was about to commission a tax study which would be utilised, along with a study conducted by Duke University, to develop a comprehensive taxation system for the country.

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guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, july 25, 2015

Views Editor: Nigel Williams Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134 Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

BASS and Smuggling

T

he announcement by the Guyana Revenue Authority that it was closing down the operations of the Berbice AntiSmuggling Squad owing to its lack of success in reducing the trade in contraband and also increasing revenue collection in the Berbice Region has come as no surprise.

Not only because the present Government, particularly the People’s National Congress Reform- component of the coalition, was never in favour of BASS, but also because of its relative tarnished image and ineffectiveness in dealing with smuggling in Berbice. For years now, some of the major manufacturing companies here have complained about the threats posed to their businesses by smuggling. Gone are the days when smugglers concentrated on trading in food items, which flourished during the 1980s, when the Forbes Burnham Administration had banned commodities such as flour and oil.

Since that time to now, despite relentless efforts by the authorities, smugglers instead of scaling back their operations, have expanded. Today a range of items are being smuggled through the various porous illegal entry ports in this country.

This multi-billion dollar underground trade has caused many legitimate businesses on the Corentyne to close their doors and while there might be many who have enriched themselves through this type of activities, the overwhelming majority would welcome any measure to tighten the noose on smugglers.

It is against this background that the GRA’s planned effort to introduce an excise stamp on tobacco and alcoholic beverages must be hailed as a positive move. Already the GRA acknowledged that although the cost of implement the stamp is exorbitant, it is worth the while, given the heavy taxation on alcohol and tobacco and also the scale of smuggling in those two products.

In addition to the millions in taxes being lost through smuggling, legitimate businesses are also being squeezed out of operations as a result of a trade that breathes corruption. The Upper Corentyne region is one of the hotbeds for this illegal trade. Only recently an official of the Corentyne Chamber detailed how devastating backtracking, smuggling, and piracy have been on businesses in that region. “The word backtrack has become a household term for residents of Corentyne and Nickerie, Suriname, and has become a culture for the people. It is neither a nice word nor a healthy culture and needs to change.” As it relates to smuggling, the chamber official said tax evasion was not something that Governments could pretend did not exist especially in today’s global communities. “That being said, I hope that smuggling could be replaced with free trade,” the Chamber official stated.

If that were not enough Chairman of Banks DIH, Clifford Reis at a shareholders forum on Essequibo earlier this year emphasised that smuggling of alcoholic beverages has drastically cut sales for the company. He said while Government was making move to introduce the excise stamp his business was suffering tremendously. Implicit in Reis’ complaints is the fact that whilst this country has experienced five consecutive years of economic growth, the activities smuggling is a major threat to business interests and can cause significant damage to the financial system through its subversion, exploitation, and distortion of legitimate markets and economic activity.

A United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) last year heard that illicit financial flows are worth €800 billion each year, compared to €80 billion of official development assistance, while UNCTAD’s 2014 Trade and Development Report shows that approximately 8-15 per cent of the net financial wealth of households is held in tax havens, mostly unrecorded. The resulting loss of public revenue amounts to US$190-$290 billion per year, of which US$66-$84 billion is lost from developing countries.

From these reports there could be denying that the issue of tax evasion resulting from smuggling must be more aggressively tackled, by the cutting off of ports of entries that facilitate this type of trade and also a more rigid enforcement by the GRA. This should involve the deployment of maritime crafts to patrol borders and also frequent raids on suspected businesses that deal in smuggling. The revenue body must also be concerned that its major revenue earners are at the mercy of smugglers- a situation which it can ill afford at a time when more and more businesses are refusing to remit VAT and the fallout from the global recession continues to bite.

A hot air balloon comes to rest amid trees, as seen from a flying balloon just after sunrise on day one of the 2015 New Jersey Festival of Ballooning in Readington, New Jersey, July 24. More than 100 hot air balloons are taking part in the three-day festival, one of the largest of its kind in North America, according to organisers (Reuters/Mike Segar)

A human rights tragedy Dear Editor, Article 149 of the Constitution of Guyana guarantees to every citizen protection against discrimination on the grounds of race, place of origin, political opinion, colour, creed, age, disability, marital status, language, birth, social class, pregnancy, religion, conscience, belief or culture.

Article 149 (A) guarantees to the citizenry, as a fundamental right, the right to work. It provides: “No person shall be hindered in the enjoyment of his or her right to work, that is to say, the right to free choice of employment”.

In the same vein, Article 147 provides that every citizen has the freedom to, inter alia, “… form or belong to political parties, trade unions or other associations …”

And Article 146 provides, inter alia, that every person is free “to hold opinions without interference”. These opinions include political opinions and views.

Additionally, the statute books of Guyana are littered with several pieces of legislation all designed to outlaw discrimination in every form, more particularly, on the grounds of race and political association and legislation which protect the rights and interests of workers.

For example, the Prevention of Discrimination Act and the Equal Rights Act prohib-

it discrimination in almost every form and mandates equal treatment. There is also the Termination of Employment and Severance Pay Act. This law provides a rigid regime of protection for workers against capricious and wanton disciplinary actions and dismissals.

It guarantees a fixed rate for the calculation of severance pay and benefits when employment is terminated.

Significantly, as a sovereign nation, Guyana has signed on to or ratified every major international convention dealing with the protection of human rights, the rights of workers and the outlawing of racial and political discrimination. These constitutional and statutory provisions, along with the international conventions which Guyana has signed or ratified, present a formidable cloak of protection for the citizenry against almost every form of discrimination, more specifically, racial and political discrimination.

One would expect that against such seemingly impenetrable legal tapestry, a Government, especially in today’s democratic world, where the shackles of every form of discrimination is being dismantled daily, will act guardedly and therefore, utilise sophisticated methods to disguise any action it takes that is likely to attract allegations of dis-

crimination. Not so with the APNU+AFC Coalition Government.

How else can one explain the brazen dismissal and the sending on leave of over 100 employees in the public sector and nearly 2000 Amerindians in the interior areas within two months.

Those dismissals were with immediate effect and without any due process and in clear violation of the rules of natural justice. No leave allowance or severance benefits, lawfully due, were paid.

No sensible reasons have been given for the widespread dismissals. I wrote letters on behalf of some of those persons. I was not even afforded the courtesy of a response.

From all the evidence available, it is clear that these persons were dismissed and/or sent on leave either because they were supportive of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration or because of their ethnicity.

In either case, the treatment meted out to these persons is discriminatory, unconstitutional and unlawful.

These persons have committed no wrong which ought to warrant dismissal or disciplinary action. They are simply being penalised for their political association or their race. These persons have families to feed, loans to pay, children to send to

school. All are lost upon this Administration.

The reaction, or rather non-reaction, from the wider society is equally shocking. Not a word of criticism or concern has emanated from any quarter condemning this ethnic and political cleansing which is taking place in public offices.

The vibrant press which was so emphatic in highlighting perceived wrongs of the previous Government has suddenly gone dormant on this issue. The trade unions and those who purport to champion the cause of workers have become dumb. The human rights groups and civil society organisations who claim to promote civil liberties and end discrimination seem to be in a state of paralysis. The pens of those who masquerade as social and political commentators that were used mightily as swords against the previous Government, have become inkless as not a word is penned on this issue.

In short, over 2100 families have been left to suffer in solitude with no one other than the PPP/C, speaking on their behalf. This is a human rights tragedy which must be internationalised.

We are prepared to take it as far as possible.

Mohabir Anil Nandlall Attorney-at-Law

Guyanese at home will suffer, not the Diaspora Dear Editor, I read in the Guyana Times of July 24 that the Guyanese diaspora is worried about all the sending home of employees by the Government of Guyana. I

did warn members of the Diaspora for over a year, about the possibility of this happening. Many of these Guyanese had hopes of obtaining jobs with the new Government.

There isn’t much that can be done now since the Government has already set out its policies. My concern is for the people who are trying to make a living in the country.

They are the ones who are going to suffer. Not the APNU, AFC, PPP or the Diaspora.

Dyal Singh

guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, july 25, 2015

Freddie Kissoon disregards Guyanese Dear Editor, Freddie Kissoon, in his Kaieteur News publication of July 19th, “I lived in white man’s country. The nonwhite record is awful”, stated that no living being could “sell” him “any nonsense of how bad the white world is and what the white world has done and is doing against the non-white peoples of the world”. Kissoon’s disregard for Guyanese begs a response which will be submitted in two parts.

One doesn’t have to be an “anti-white scholar” as coined vulgarly by Mr Kissoon, to know that the West has raped what later came to be pejoratively known as the “Third World”, from the moment Columbus set out to follow Vasco Da Gama’s sea trail to India, and proclaimed the “discovery” of the “New World” upon realisation that the land on which he had set foot was not laden with Indian silks and spices, but rather with “savages” who were “uncivilised”.

Sadly, when Kissoon tells Guyanese that “the white world is far more civilised” than they are, he is no different than Columbus encountering his “savages”. He forgets that the inhabitants of the “Third World” he refers to, have been part of civilisations as old or older than the Greeks and the Roman Empire, and have inspired Western development from the day Alexander the Great crossed the Hindu Kush, to when Oriental numerals, physics, astronomy and hygiene, to name a few, became part of the genesis for Western progress.

Kissoon’s amnesia also excludes the neo-colonialism of countries such as France or the United Kingdom which battle across continents to maintain a rooted paternalistic relationship based mainly on aid and assistance, subsequently incarnating the dominant role of benefactor. The Françafrique sphere of influence is the best example of neocolonial ideology. Other military superpowers, such as the US, are engaged in ideological and economic wars in which assistance is again used to befriend the sceptical minds of those who survive in the periphery. Assistance in every aspect imaginable is proposed so that we, the people of the periphery, may be able, some day, to meet the standards of Western universalism, a concept invented long after human rights were practised.

Kissoon was right when he said that the “white man” has “tampered with our (…) psychology”, but he seems to

forget that it is that very psychological prejudice suffered

by Guyanese that is responsible today for the situation in which our society finds itself. The “damaged goods” he refers to are the result of a deliberate and successful attempt from the West to divide in order to conquer.

The strategy remains relevant today, where exerting power over nations with weaker governance and military power allows these powers to secure natural resources and economic benefits.

Kissoon asks why it is that Guyanese just “don’t commit suicide” since they would “never achieve dignity, innovative ideas and free minds”.

This is an insult to the Guyanese people, who, because of the need to preserve their dignity, a fundamental human right, have fought for the independence of this country from the colonial powers. Guyanese do not lack in innovative ideas, and Kissoon, in his contradictory assertion, rightfully points out that we have produced brilliant minds over the years.

In Kissoon’s delusional attempt to convince Guyanese of their failure at achieving a “civilised” society, he omits the fact that it took Western states hundreds of years before their level of development could be attained, while Guyana is yet a mere 49 years old. Kissoon should then ask the people of Palestine why they chose to live as “damaged goods”, or those in the countries which were invented in the British scramble for the African continent. Guyanese are free minds, and Kissoon is symbolic of such freedom of mind benefiting of the freedom of speech still lacking in some of those “civilised” countries he so passionately refers to.

Kissoon’s insult further asserts that “our lack of development, inventions, attractive ideas, modern thinking may be due to genetic factors (…)”.

Lack of development is not inherited, but suffered. Lack of inventions and “modern thinking” (whatever that means) aren’t genetically inherited, but are a consequence of insufficient technological and infrastructural means, coupled with inadequate skill sets.

Attractive ideas aren’t lacking in Guyanese, and if Kissoon takes a glance around Guyana, he would find that Guyanese are some of the hardest working people, always trying to find new ways to reinvent themselves and survive (has he noticed our young entrepreneurs recently?). These “lacks of” that he refers to are not genetically transmissible, not any more than his lack of knowledge.

Even the reason behind

the “underdevelopment” of Guyanese society as he qualifies it, escapes the argument put forward by Kissoon. He forgets that Guyana’s underdevelopment is due to the dictatorial ruin and bankruptcy it suffered for nearly 20 years, instigated by a man who was backed by the West. He forgets that our underdeveloped industry is strongly dependent on imported oil, despite existing possibilities of developing natural energy. He doesn’t question the indifference of the Granger Government towards the Amaila Hydroelectricity Project, and the silence of the West on this incomprehensible indifference.

Is it basic understanding of economics and geopolitics that is “lacking” in Kissoon?

De Sa

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Response to Martin Luke’s letter “GEA exempt from forensic auditing” Dear Editor, The letter in the Guyana Times of July 21 by Martin Luke titled “GEA exempt from forensic auditing” has certainly raised eyebrows and as a result, strong calls must be made by those people who condemn nepotism and corruption and who are believers in transparency.

These people were very active writing letters in other sections of the media about corruption and the lack of transparency during the rule of the People Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government. This includes the current A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government when it was in the Opposition. Now these

people appear to be deaf and dumb about corruption taking place under the Granger Government.

Why is the Granger Government not allowing the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) to be added to the 30 State agencies undergoing forensic audits? Is it because the head of the GEA, Dr Mahender Sharma is the brother of the Junior Finance Minister Hon Jaipaul Sharma, MP who gives periodic updates on the status of the forensic audits?

Where are the voices of Christopher Ram, Anand Goolsarran, Gino Persaud and Mike McCormack of the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA), as

well as those in the diaspora. Their silence has become worrisome.

But it was Christopher Ram who preached against the GEA not having its reports brought before the National Assembly. Why is he not insisting that the GEA be subjected to forensic audits as well? Is it because he is afraid to speak out knowing that the GEA head is the brother of the Junior Finance Minister?

It, therefore, seems that the GEA is a sacred cow of the Granger Government since it has mysteriously slipped the forensic audits radar.

Yours faithfully, Ralph Smith

Heavy paddy bug infestation in Essequibo Dear Editor, This afternoon I received a phone call from farmers that there is a high infestation of paddy bugs in their rice crop which is at the blooming stage. I investigated the matter in the northern Essequibo Coast. As a former rice extension agriculture officer and rice farmer, I have a wealth of experience in this field working with bug experts from Trinidad such as Mr Eerns Neerings. This is why the farmers contacted me to seek my advice on how to control the bugs.

Some of the crops I inspected are in the milking stage and produce a whitish liquid on which the bugs feed and pierce when it turns into the dough stage. The number of bugs I saw in the fields amounts to millions.

The farmers were making 10 walks in a 10-acre block with a mist blower in their attempt to control the infestation. Farmers in the past used traditional (non-chemical) methods to control these pests, but now they are using chemicals such as pesticides.

The widespread use of pesticides in the paddy fields has resulted in new problems, including poisoning, insect resistance to chemicals and loss of natural enemies.

Researchers have introduced a new system of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), an environmentally and economically sound way to control agricultural pests.

Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) Extension Officers need to educate the farmers that IPM can control pests using a combination of techniques including natural

enemies and special cropping practice such as timing. The rate of fertiliser application and synchronised planting of pest-resistant varieties as well as minimal use of chemical pesticides based on regular monitoring of the fields to diagnose pest damage, are also very useful methods.

IPM must be fine-tuned and adapted to specific agricultural, ecological and economic conditions, as well as to the needs of the farmers.

It has the potential to lower the risks to human health and the environment significantly, while providing higher yields and profits. Paddy crop is pursued by rice farmers as a commercial venture and regardless of the level of production, the ultimate goal has always been to maximise yield. The year-round favourable climatic conditions in Guyana and the tropics

support the continual survival and proliferation of the bug population with the consequential yield losses and poor quality of paddy once it is damaged.

At the time of my visits, the farmers reported that they hadn’t been paid for their last crop of paddy, which was sold to some of the millers, and they are still being owed huge sums of money although the Government has given them a bailout from the Treasury. They also complained that the big wholesale and retail dealer who is selling fertilisers has increased the prices tenfold and that the cost of production has skyrocketed. At the moment, they are not certain as to what the new price for a bag of paddy would be. The consequences of declining prices by $1000 are already being felt by many small and

big farmers.

Considering the high cost of production and heavy infestation of paddy bugs, it will be necessary for Government also to protect its interest.

This could be expedited and supported by bringing fertilisers and chemicals into the region at an affordable cost. There is also the need for constructive dialogue among rice farmers and the Agriculture Minister at this time. The reality is that we are now faced with rough times ahead of us and as the Venezuelan market comes to an end in November, Suriname has already began to offer more competitive prices for their rice. This is undoubtedly a bold move to capture Guyana’s share of the market.

Yours faithfully, Mohamed Khan

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Foundation

BY PATTY WIPFLER

D

isciplining your child is one of the most important things you’ll do as a parent. It’s also one of the hardest.

The Canadian Paediatric Society strongly discourages the use of physical punishment on children, including spanking. Physical punishment can physically and emotionally hurt your child.

There are other, more effective ways to discipline children.

Positive discipline teaches and guides children and is part of a comforting family environment. It helps your child grow up to be a happy, caring person who has: • Self-esteem (feeling good about oneself).

• Respect for others.

• Problem solving and other life skills.

How you discipline your child will depend on her age, stage of development, personality and many other factors, but here are some basic ideas to help guide you.

How do I set the stage for good behaviour?

Good behaviour isn’t just luck – there is a lot that you can do to foster it. It may help to know what affects your child’s behaviour.

External forces are things that families have some control over: Physical space: A calm, comfortable and organised space will foster good behav-

Here’s how it can work

iour.

Materials: Toys that are right for your child’s age will excite and entertain him. These do not need to be commercially bought toys and can often be found all around you.

Routine: Organise your day with your child so he knows what to expect. You can include planned and unplanned activities as well as quiet time and physical activities. Try to spend part of everyday playing outside.

Sleep: Naps are important for young children and should be part of your routine. As much as possible, keep bedtimes and wake times the same and make sure your child is getting enough nighttime sleep.

Food: A hungry child can be a cranky child. Keep regular mealtimes and offer healthy snacks between meals.

Peers: How your child’s friends treat him will affect his own behaviour. Get to know your child’s friends.

When friends come to visit, explain your house rules and expect the same respectful behaviour from everyone.

Television and other media: Limit your child’s screen time. While high

quality children’s shows may promote positive behaviour, violent shows and games may make your child feel anxious and even encourage aggressive behaviour in some children.

Internal forces are things you can’t control.

Your child has her own temperament (a built-in style of behaviour) that affects how she reacts to events and people in her world. She also has a unique personality that you will come to understand over time. You can support your child by: • Respecting your child’s feelings and thoughts.

• Respecting your child’s ideas and contributions.

• B e i n g hone s t with your

•

child.

Listening your child talks.

when

How does developmental stage affect my child’s behaviour?

Your child’s behaviour has a lot to do with his age and stage – what he can do, what he is learning, how he understands and experiences the world around him. If you know what to expect as he grows, you can discipline him in a way he can understand.

• •

•

• •

• •

What can I do to promote good behaviour?

Spend time alone with your child each day.

Be comforting. Give your child hugs, cuddles or a gentle pat on the back.

If your child is sad or angry, respect her feelings. Try to understand why she is sad or angry.

Do things that are fun.

Laugh together.

If you make a promise, do your best to keep it.

It is important that your child trusts you, and she will want you to trust her, too.

Always look for opportunities to praise your child for good behaviour.

Ignore little things.

Before you raise your voice, ask yourself, “Is this important?” (caring-

forkids.cps.ca)

“My six-year-old had always slept in the family bed.

My husband and I felt it was time for him to be able to sleep in his own bed, which was only a step away from the “big bed.” So one night, I felt that I had the inner resources to Staylisten through what I guessed would be a big upset.

We went up to the bedroom, and he refused to get into his bed. I gave him a choice – either he come into his bed, or I could carry him.

He still refused to move. So I gently put my hand on him and said, “I will help you come over.” He screamed, “No! No! No!” I listened, and then repeated that I would help him. He started kicking me and thrashing about.

I managed to stay calm, but I had to hold his legs to keep myself safe. This made him really angry! “Not my legs,” he screamed, in between big sobs. At this point, I felt unsure. I wasn’t sure about whether I was doing the right thing by holding his legs. But I reasoned that I had to stop myself from getting hurt. At this point he was wild with rage.

I remembered a very traumatic experience from his infancy when he was held down to have stitches in his forehead. I had to hold his legs that day. I felt that me holding his legs again was triggering this very ear-

(Conclusion) ly trauma for him. Luckily, I had gotten lots of listening time about my own fears and sadness about that incident! I was able continue to hold his legs to insure my own safety, and to love him at the same time. I didn’t say much, but when I could, I reassured him that no one was going to hurt him today.

That I loved him and that he was safe now.

After a while, he stopped thrashing and so I let go of his legs. I reminded him gently that I needed him to sleep in his own bed. He kicked again and I found myself again holding his legs and listening to him rage and scream. He ended up in a big sobbing cry in my arms, once the fury was spent.

I was then able to carry him into his bed. Twice he got up and ran to the big bed. I picked him up twice, bringing him back into his bed. He cried again, and told me he gets cold and lonely in his bed. At that point, I stayed with him in his bed.

He was very tired. I told him that he is never alone, that my love is always there and that I was still looking after him although I would sleep in the other bed. I told him I loved him, to which he answered, “Well, I don’t love you.” I told him that I would keep on loving him, and that my love was always there.

He drifted off to sleep and slept peacefully.

This night really helped me to see just how much fear he has carried with him for so many years. He presented two big emotional projects that night – sleeping in his bed, and recovering from his old fears from long ago. I felt so much compassion and love for him. I felt really close and connected to him for a few days after that. What an honour it was to witness such deep healing taking place!

Quite a few more Staylistening sessions around this issue followed. I am so pleased to say that he now sleeps in his own bed, and will stay there the whole night. In the morning, we get to have lots of cuddles, which we look forward to very much. All in all, it took about two weeks before he easily accepted that his bed was the place to be, and he is generally more relaxed than before. I sense that he feels lighter and easier in himself now that the big fear that he had held for so long has been listened to with love and understanding.” – a mother in Currumbin Valley, Queensland, Australia.

(Handinhandparenting.org)

news

7

saturday, july 25, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Guyana/Venezuela border controversy

Former diplomat presses Govt to attend Mercosur meeting T wo local former Foreign Ministers are urging Guyana to attend a Mercosur-planned meeting to deal with the recently flared controversy between this country and Venezuela over the latter’s illegal claims to the Essequibo.

In fact, former Foreign Affairs Minister Rudolph “Rudy” Insanally said that Latin American States that are part of the Sub-regional bloc of Mercosur should take into consideration the fact that Guyana is now a full fledged member of the grouping and that the decisions following consultations on the Guyana/Venezuela border controversy should be fair.

Insanally was speaking to Guyana Times on Friday on the planned meeting of Latin American States scheduled to be held in Asunción, Paraguay next month.

Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge was however not clear on whether Guyana would be participating in the upcoming meeting.

Following his return from the Brasilia meeting last week, he told Guyana Times that Guyana was never formally invited to the meeting in Venezuela to discuss the ongoing controversy between the two countries.

Greenidge said “Our colleagues in Latin America claim we have been invited to a meeting in August, but didn’t see it fit to ask us whether we’d be available, whether the time would be convenient, whether we’d be interested and so forth.”

Further pressed on whether Guyana was interested in attending the meeting, the Foreign Affairs Minister said

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge

they did not attend meetings on the basis of information from other sources. “I don’t think international diplomacy should work on that basis … I don’t even know which grouping has taken that decision,” he disclosed. There have been calls for the Government to boycott the meeting as most of the others members of the grouping are perceived to be closer to Venezuela.

Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro last week announced that a special meeting will be held within the framework of the regional body to address the border controversy, and although the date of the meeting was not announced, the Spanish Government welcomed the initiative from Mercosur and the possibility of fostering peace initiatives in the region.

Venezuela is still fighting against the 1899 arbitral award which declared Guyana the true owner of the territory of Essequibo. Venezuela remains vehement in its claim that the Geneva Agreement is null and void. Guyana has

remained resolute and has taken its position to several international forums seeking solidarity. Its last representation was to the Heads of Mercosur in Brasilia, Brazil, last week, where President David Granger told leaders that they needed to be “vigilant” against the ongoing border controversy between the two South American neighbours.

Asked if he thought that Guyana should make an appearance at the meeting, given the widespread thinking that participants are likely to lean in Venezuela’s favour, Insanally who has been Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations since 1987 said those countries should come to the understanding that Guyana is now a part of them and has been attending all of the meetings ever since joining the group. He said in spite of what language a country speaks, the group should always be fair.

The Sub Regional bloc of Mercosur includes countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Venezuela. Its associate countries are Chile, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru; non English speaking territories.

As it relates to Guyana’s participation, Insanally said that Guyana has a choice whether it would refrain and maintain that it has the law on its side (Arbitral award).

Meanwhile, former Foreign Trade Minister, Dr Henry Jeffery told Guyana Times that that there must be some middle ground. He said if Guyana does not attend the confab, then it could lose out

former Foreign Affairs Minister Rudolph Insanally

on having a say on any decision that is made.

Venezuela has already solicited the assistance of Secretary General of the United Nations (UN) Ban-Ki Moon, who has already promised the appointment of a Good Officer to mediate over the controversy. The officer is still to be appointed. Guyana has already asked the UN to initiate judicial settlement of the border controversy and has signalled its intention to opt out of the Good Officers process which it said has outlived its usefulness and did little to resolve the decadesold controversy.

In his presentation to the Southern Common Market Summit last week, Granger had also urged the leaders to help his country in the defence of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He said “Mercosur has the duty to be

vigilant against this conflict” and urged leaders to guarantee the sovereignty of small states of the continent.

He said the violations of the borders are the result of conflicts and “chaos”, noting that Mercosur and the entire Caribbean region needed to be maintained as a “zone of peace in order to advance economic development”.

The decree purports to appropriate the Exclusive Economic Zone of Guyana, which has suffered provocations from Venezuela for a long time and “does not deserve that”, Granger said. He said Guyana reiterated its respect for the sovereignty of all States that form the region, but called for support for the maintenance of sovereignty and integrity throughout its territory.

The call made by the Head of State is similar to the one he made earlier this month in Barbados at the Caricom Heads of Government meeting.

Granger had told leaders there that his country faces a huge threat, recalling that the “decree number 1787”, promulgated by the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela was timed to coincide with the country’s independence anniversary on May 26 this year and his inauguration. “The decree sticks in my throat like a bone. It lays claim to much of the coastline and most of the Exclusive Economic Zones of Guyana.

This decree has dire implications for the entire Region, but, most particularly, the eastern states including Barbados, Grenada, Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago,” he had told the leaders.

He said these countries consider the decree by Venezuela an act of aggression against Guyana’s sovereignty, and an assault on its right to assess and develop its maritime resources.

Just about two weeks ago, the President had taken his call for international backing against the aggression

by Venezuela to the Third International Conference on Financing for Development being held in Ethiopia, telling the international bodies there their security was indispensable to any country and as such, Guyana would reject any threat to it. “Security and stability are indispensable to sustainable development and the pursuit of prosperity. We resent, reject and resist the threat or use of force or any unilateral coercive attempt by one state against another in order to frustrate the legitimate aspirations of our people to enjoy a good life,” he said.

While he only made the comment in passing, the President said that the Charter of the UN and the tenets of international law must be guaranteed to all states and peoples in the quest for secure livelihoods and sustainable development.

8 NEWS

saturday, july 25, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Massy Driver remanded for Rugby player’s death

A

Driver attached to Massy Gas Products who was charged for causing the death of a Guyanese Rugby player, was remanded to prison on Friday.

Greg Stewart, age 40, of 707 Caneville, Grove, East Bank Demerara, stands accused for causing the death of 19-year-old Dustin Crawford at Flour Mill Road, Greater Georgetown, on Wednesday.

During his appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Friday, Stewart told the court that he was not guilty of the three charges lodged against him.

The first charge stated that on July 22, he drove a truck bearing registration plate GJJ 7168, with a tray bearing plate number TAA 2203, in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing Crawford’s death.

Also, he is accused of failing to stop after the accident occurred, and lastly, it is alleged that Stewart failed to render assistance to the injured man by seeking medical assistance for Crawford.

The charges are all indictable but Police Prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones applied to Court Two for an Administration of the Judicial Act so that the

Greg Stewart says he is innocent

matter can be tried at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, instead of the High Court.

However, Prosecutor Jones objected to bail, stating that the defendant was speeding and continued to do so when he made the turn into the Flour Mill Public Road. He explained that the tray hit Crawford into the air and several feet away. It is the prosecution’s contention that Stewart did not stop when this occurred but drove on, thus crushing Crawford who landed in front the truck.

Prosecutor Jones said the Police have an eyewitness to the accident; stating that the witness was

the person who called the Police informing them of the accident. After the accident occurred and the driver did not stop, the witness claimed that they went in pursuit of Stewart, getting a good look at the registration plates of the vehicle as well as the driver’s face.

Even so, the Police are still investigating the accident.

Meanwhile, Stewart’s Attorney (name not known) said he did his own investigation which produced different results. He detailed that his client was driving quite a heavy-duty truck which had a tray affixed to it. Due to this, the lawyer concluded that the accused could not have been speeding as he had made a successful turn unto Flour Mill Road, which is approximately 12 to 15 meters in width.

The Attorney concluded that the driver could not have been driving more than 60 miles per hour.

Another factor which the lawyer called “puzzling and strange” is the lack of injuries on the deceased’s body.

He reiterated that the allegation is that the truck ran over Crawford’s body but he questioned the lack of external injuries on his body.

It is the defence Attorney’s

opinion that the truck would have crushed Crawford’s body had that had been the case.

In addition, the Attorney questioned the lack of blood upon the supposed instrument of the deceased’s death, the truck. He said the Police report mentioned no blood on the truck or the tray which allegedly hit the deceased.

The defence Attorney reminded the court that his client still maintains his innocence in the accident as he does not know the deceased and did not hit him that day on Flour Mill Road. Thus, he called for his release on bail.

He indicated the presence of a representative of Massy, who will be ensuring that the accused shows up for court at the requisite times. Also, the lawyer entreated the court to consider that his client has never once been in an accident in his 20 years of driving and is married with two children.

The Attorney ended by reminding the court that the offence is bailable, stating that his client should not be incarcerated unnecessarily if this is so.

Nevertheless, Magistrate McLennan refused Stewart bail. He is expected to return to court on August 12.

Sectoral Committees

Govt to alter composition to retain control ...reverses its prior change that favoured Opposition

A

fter amending the Standing Order 86 (1) in the 10th Parliament to give it control of the Parliamentary Sectoral Committees owing to its one seat majority as the then opposition, the new APNU/AFC administration is now reverse the change with it now being in government, so that it can maintain control of the committees that scrutinize the entire operations of government..

Minister of Social Cohesion and Chief Whip, Amna Ally is to move a motion next week in Parliament to effect the necessary amendment.

Titled “Representation on Sectoral Committees”, the motion read that:” Whereas Standing Order No. 86(1) makes provision for the appointment of the four (4) Sectoral Committees, pursuant to Article 119B of the Constitution, as soon as may be after the beginning of each National Assembly; and whereas Standing Order No. 86(2) provides that each Sectoral Committee shall consist of seven (7) members, three (3) representing the Government and four (4) the Opposition, respectively; and whereas in this 11th Parliament, the Government is in the ma-

jority and the Opposition in the minority; and whereas Standing Order No. 86(2) does not represent the new majority reality in this 11th Parliament.

Ally’s motion urges that National Assembly amend Standing Order No. 86(2) to read that representation on the Sectoral Committees should be calculated in accordance with the seat allocation to the Political Parties in Parliament and that Standing Order No. 86(2) be amended to read that, “each Committee shall consist of seven (7) Members, four (4) representing the Government and three (3) representing the Opposition, to be nominated by the Committee of Selection. The Government and Opposition shall be entitled to elect one alternate Member for each Sectoral Committee.

In the tenth Parliament, the then government, PPP/C had argued against the change in the composition, since the APNU/AFC had proposed a 3/3/1 ratio with both the PPP/C and APNU entitled to three members and the AFC one.

The APNU/AFC opposition back then had used its majority to defeat the PPP/C government on a vote to determine the composition of

Minister of Social Cohesion and Chief Whip, Amna Ally

the Committee of Selection.

Then Prime Minister Samuel Hinds had proposed that there be a ten-member Committee of Selection with five members for the Government, four members for APNU and one member for the AFC. Gail Teixeira at that time said that the issue is to ensure that there is a balance of the parties’ strength in Parliament and that it must be based on the number of seats that the parties held in Parliament. The PPP/C had also accused APNU and AFC of using their one seat majority back then for partisan political interests and at the same was undermining the constitution and parliamen-

tary norms and traditions.

Then Attorney General Anil Nandlall had also said the actions of the APNU/ AFC in using their majority to select the Speaker, establish the composition of the Committee of Selection violated the spirit of the Constitution. “The Constitution contemplates that it would not be a disputed issue,” Nandlall had said then.

The four sectoral committees - Economic Services, Natural Resources, Social Services and Foreign Relations - were formed pursuant to the constitutional changes of 2001 brought about by the Herdmanson Accord. They were intended to increase the input of the Opposition in governance in real time by having them scrutinize governmental operations in real time, unlike the Public Accounts Committee.

The Chairs of the Committees are split between the Opposition and the Government and are alternated annually. The government's action in using its majority to tip the control of the committees might be seen as going against the spirit of inclusiveness the constitutional change sought to inspire.

Eyew tness The root of the problem...

S

...with the police

ome people, like your Eyewitness, swear that there aren't any coincidences in life. Like, for instance, the Rodney COI and Sean Hinds singing like a kiskadee about police involvement in crimes ranging from gun running to murder for hire? You don't see the connection between the events separated by an exact 25 years? Well your Eyewitness will connect the dots for you, dear readers.

What the testimony to the Commission up to now, has proven beyond a shadow of a doubt, is that during the Burnhamite PNC years, the Police Force was subverted to do the bidding of the regime. We can look at the officers swearing personal loyalty to Burnham...but that was only the tip of a very large iceberg. Didn't we hear of policemen assigned to spy on the WPA? Wasn't it cops who shot and killed WPA activists Edward Dublin and OheneKoama, who in the words of Omawale, “were killed for no discernible reason other than” associating with the WPA. Turning a blind eye to thugs breaking up WPA meetings while sharing out "condign" licks was SOP. Weren't separate dirty tricks run out of Ogle by Laurie Lewis and his innocuously named "Professional Guard Service"? You get the drift? By the time Burnham died in 1985, the corruption of the police to do the (illegal) bidding of the government had become endemic. And when cancer of corruption played out in the midst of an economic meltdown that affected fixed-salaries folks like the police most - it should surprise no one that many policemen turned to "extra-curricular" activities to make a living.

It was no urban myth that many of the "kick-downthe-door" bandits were active or ex-policemen. Or that their guns were hired out for that activity. Or that the said activity was so ethnically directed towards Indian Guyanese that EusiKwayana remarked it had the "flavour of ethnic genocide".

While Desmond Hotyte's "hang em high" policy might've put a crimp on the "kick-down-the-door" banditry, the police force the PPP inherited in 1992, needed some radical reconstructive, root-and-branch surgery to get it back to a modicum of professionalism. This they never did for reasons best known to themselves.

And we reach the point where Andrew Douglas (an ex-policeman and lieutenant of Blackie London, an exsoldier) launched a Freedom Movement by killing mainly Indian Guyanese villagers but more germanely, scads of policemen.

Why be surprised, according to Sean Hinds, that policemen from CID started doing hits?

Whether for hire or for their own loyalty to the "blue wall".

...in Regional and local cricket

So you know that your Eyewitness is a "cricket tragic".

He's confessed to his weakness. His nails are already bitten to the nub over the Warriors' today's game with the Red Steel. So when he heard there was a local tour by the WICB head honcho in which he'll meet the Minister of Sports and the local cricketing bodies to straighten out to other forms of the game, he was ecstatic.

The sad truth is that "a cricket tragic" is addicted to all forms of the game...and the dearth of Test and ODI's in his native land had worn him to a frazzle. So here he was, waiting for the cricket "stakeholders" to tell the WICB what'll be done to bring back West Indies cricket. Which, as everyone knows, means implementing the 2007 Paterson Report and revamp the WICB. The entire structure's rotten But all the "stakeholders" did was to carry on about their local travails. Hey...whatever they do in Guyana will be gone for guava if the WICB isn't cleaned up.

And the WICB, like fishes, start stinking at the head.

...with Sean Hinds

Hinds has the nation captivated with his titillating tales.

We all like salacious gossip.

Question is, how credible's the gossip?

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

news

9

saturday, july 25, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Sean Hinds allegations on Waddell’s execution

Merai produces alibi ...insists Hinds part of plot to frame innocent cops

BY MICHAEL YOUNGE

R

etired Assistant Police Commissioner Steve Merai on Friday broke his silence following damning allegations made by self-confessed “death squad” member, Sean Hinds which suggested that he participated in the murder of political activist and journalist, Ronald Waddell back in January 2006.

Waddell was gunned down in a hail of bullets outside of his Subryanville home by several criminals in an incident that shocked the country and still today forms part of the unsolved murders that occurred following the 2002 jailbreak.

Hinds, speaking during an exclusive interview with a broadcast media house earlier this week, alleged that he saw two policemen in a vehicle outside of Waddell’s House as he was being gunned down.

“I deh pon de seawall sit down in me car…I get a call, ‘Hey de man coming.’

By de time da man come out de yard… a blue 212 swing from Sheriff Street and all I heard is dudududududu and I just lie down in meh car suh,” he said in that interview.

He also declared that “two policemen were in the vehicle when Waddell died. A man named Patrick

Former Assistant Police Commissioner, Steve Merai

Denny and a man named Steve Merai.”

Hinds also claimed that he has evidence and footage to prove his account of what took place. But the 58-years-old Merai, speaking with the Guyana Times exclusively on Friday at our Camp and Quamina Streets Headquarters, insisted that Hinds was lying. The retired senior policeman firmly believes that Hinds may have been set up to make the allegations against him.

“I do not know if he was led up to it or set up to do it by other people. Other intellectual authors…and say call Steve Merai name”, he stated. Asked why Hinds would agree to do so more than a close to a decade after Waddell’s murder, Merai responded, “You in

the police for 31 years….I was in the operations unit.

A lot of things happened in that Unit. We had to deal with at some stage the crime situation…hard core criminals and you had fire fights with them…things happened where people get hurt and I think people would have grievances….”

He added, “I know for sure, he don’t know where I was but when this publish now he will have to back pedal”. Pressed further about his relationship with Hinds, Merai admitted that he knew the convicted criminal “personally”.

He also admitted that he met Hinds and saw him at various places including a well-known gym in Thomas Street, Kitty. “I never knew him in the force. I get to know him like in 2008. We would talk or gaff whenever I see him in the gym….

There was never any talk with me and Sean Hinds about Mr Waddell”, he asserted before admitting that the two also communicated from time to time via the phone.

Death, Phantom squads

Asked whether he was part of the “killing squad” or “death squad”, Merai responded in the negative maintaining firmly that such a body never existed.

“No. The police force from my time when I was there…

there was never no death squad. There is nothing as such in the police act. You will have units that will respond to different crimes and different things…that’s a civilian perception, they give you that name”, Merai said a bit hesitantly.

He argued that whatever police ranks did, there were records that exist to support it and orders were followed from only senior persons during the period of the post-2002 crime wave.

Asked specifically about his alleged involvement with the “phantom squad”, Merai said, “I heard the name and again that is a name from the civilians and the media. As far as I know the police force never had any phantom squad.”

He did admit that he knew of Axel Williams, who Hinds alleged, headed the Phantom Squad unit and gave orders he received from higher up to execute people. “I saw the individual around the town and meeting at places, but I never had any conversation with him”, Merai affirmed.

Alibi

The former B Division Commander told this newspaper that on the night Waddell was killed he was at the Body Image Gym which was located at Lot 102 Third Street, Surbryanville doing his

Self-confessed “death squad” member, Sean Hinds

normal exercise routine around 7 pm. He explained that there were three other persons doing similar exercises at the same time with him in the gym which at the bottom of the residence of Aubrey Small and his family who were also at home above the gym at the time.

“While training, I heard heavy gunfire and from my training I knew that was not like a vehicle backfiring or a squib. It was like heavy gunfire. I immediately put my weights down and I took my position behind the center post in the gym and I stayed there listening”.

He said that Small came down the stairs and asked his opinion as to what he heard and at that time there was another round of what he described to Small

as “machine gun fire”.

Merai said he and others in the gym became curious and were looking around to see if anyone was speeding away or running as they though a robbery had been committed or someone was being hurt in the area.

After they saw nothing, he said they waited awhile.

“I said Aubrey I am not going to train anymore because it looks like something serious happening in the community….so the other guys packed up their bags and I packed up my bags. We walked out and Aubrey walked to the gate.

I jumped in my vehicle…I drove down public road kitty west past Russian Embassy and when I reached at the end of Vlissengen road, I turned right to Celina”.

Continuing, he said while driving his black Pathfinder vehicle which was not tinted, and turned onto the seawall road, as he approached Sheriff Street, he saw a police car and lights flashing at Waddell’s residence on the road. He also saw Army officers in uniform and civilians also running from different directions and decided to slow down by the light.

At this point in his career, Merai was a Senior Police Superintendent based at Eve Leary. turn to page 10

10

guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, july 25, 2015

News

Rice stakeholders urge set up of development bank …more aggressive marketing in Caricom

By Devina Samaroo

process.

ith the imminent termination of the oil for rice deal between Guyana and Venezuela, the majority of the local rice farmers and millers are calling for the Government to establish an agriculture development bank and also urged for more aggressive marketing in the Caribbean.

Stakeholders have said that Government needs to play a more pivotal role in helping to market rice; and rice farmers, millers and other key stakeholders are urging the relevant authorities to act fast, especially since the second crop is slated to be harvested two months from now.

Jinnah Rahman, Chairman of the Rice Producers Action Committee of the Guyana Rice Producers Association believes the re-establishment of the Guyana Agricultural and Industrial Development Bank (GAIBANK) will immensely develop the rice sector and open opportunities for millers to have more finance to better market their rice.

However, not everyone in the industry believes this is the best move to take.

Rahman also prompted the Government to ensure that the embassies it has established all around the world start the process of looking at trade and investment.

This, he said, can go a long way if executed correctly and there is an active involvement of industry representatives throughout the

Former Chairman of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) Nigel Dharamlall; Chief Executive Officer of the Nand Persaud and Co Ltd Mohindra Persaud; Head of the Alesie Group of Companies, Dr Turhane Doerga and Rahman all believe that Government needs to establish better dialogue and negotiating skills when engaging in discussions with other countries about trade.

Dharamlall, in an invited comment, underscored that marketing generally has to do with fostering good “relationships, negotiations and diplomacy”.

He pointed out that since rice is an international commodity, markets will always be available for this produce but it is up to the producers to create opportunities to secure the necessary markets.

“It all has to do with the quality of your rice, the reliability of supply, credibility and building a good network with countries you are already doing business with,” he said, interjecting that the new Administration did a terrible job at sustaining the rewarding deal Guyana had with Venezuela.

“So now, because of this fallout, they will lose traditional markets. The current Government has no credibility and they will have to rebuild that because it was under their hands in which one of the biggest deal was closed,” he insisted, explaining that the for-

W

Better dialogue

mer Government, due to the relationship and proper negotiating skills, always succeeded in renewing contracts with the Spanish speaking nation.

Persaud also said tremendous efforts need to be put into building relationships with other nations if it wants to better assist in the marketing of rice.

Persaud asserted that his company does not depend on the government to market its rice produce and encouraged other millers to do so. Asked what he thinks the government can do to better assist in the marketing of rice, Persaud said it needs to build relationships with other countries. He also recommended that other millers do the same.

Dr Doerga said for years he has been calling for professionals to be the ones to spearhead the marketing of rice but he has not seen any steps being made in this direction.

Under the new Administration, he pointed out that there is also no move from Agriculture Minister Noel Holder.

“We cannot do anything without the coordination of Government,” he insisted.

Rahman also said the persons representing Guyana in trade discussions need to be able to carry out better dialogue with their counterparts if they want to secure markets for the country’s bumper harvest.

Caricom

“[Caribbean Community] Caricom has become a waste of time, a dead body;

we need to be able to make it work,” Rahman said.

And indeed, this has been the view of many in the exportation industry in Guyana. When Caricom was established, the intention was to facilitate better trade agreements among Caricom member states; however, many have contended that this is definitely not the case.

Rahman and Persaud believe that Guyanese representatives need to be more aggressive in their confrontation with Caricom representatives, especially as it relates to trade agreements.

“We need to tap into the rich resource of Caricom, we should be able to sell our rice in exchange for oil in Trinidad and Tobago, Government needs to be able to get their act together; they need to be able to do that,” he stated vigorously.

Persaud too said there are lots of trade opportunities which Guyana can take advantage of in the Caribbean but it only appears as if Guyana is being taken advantage of. “We are always soft, taking a lot of beatings. We need to be more vibrant,” he said.

Tax waivers, free trade agreements

Another reason pointed out as to why other rice producing countries are doing well in the sector is because of Government’s intervention to ensure tax waivers and free trade agreements are available to act as incentives for buyers.

Chairman of the Guyana Millers and Exporters

Marketing Association, Dr Peter De Groot contended – along with Dr Doerga, Dharamlall and Persaud – that this is an area in which Government should pursue and sustain.

De Groot highlighted that in other countries, Governments negotiate and succeed in securing free trade agreements with other countries for rice and oth-

er economically crucial commodities. Dr Doerga pointed out also that “world market prices” are not exactly “too low” for Guyanese farmers but it is just that the prices circulating around the world is as a result of the various treaties between countries.

As such, he indicated that this is an approach the next Government should take.

Merai produces...

Asked why as a senior officer, he did not render assistance or investigate, he said, “I said you know what happen, something happen here but nobody wasn’t saying anything and I said listen let me just go home because you stop and come out and something might happen….I pondering in mind and said don’t come out because I am not in the CID to say come help out with the investigation…that’s not my area of operation…”

“So I turned down Sheriff Street and went home”. He said he was living at Barima Avenue, Bel Air Park.

Insisting that he had nothing to do with Waddell’s death, Merai said that he was never contacted or questioned about the events of January 30, 2006. …

“Strange enough, the policemen, the Crime Chief Mr Greene, Mr Seelall who was head of crime at Brickdam, Mr Paul Slowe who was heading A Division, Mr Felix who was Commissioner of Police…none of these men called me and said when you were…I was never ques-

from page 9

tioned…internally or externally”, he insisted. He continued by referring to Sean Hinds’ recent assertions: “Somebody promised him something. I do not think he came up on his own to target me...” The former Assistant Commissioner says he will be forced to take out private criminal action against Hinds if the police do not act in a timely manner as his statements have placed his life and that of his family in jeopardy especially if those close to Waddell believe the lies being told by Hind. “I spoke with my lawyer and I am getting advice.

We took a decision to wait a little bit on the police. I have confidence in the CID and I don’t want to jump in front.

I am just waiting for them to deal with him. If I see it’s not going too quickly, then I am looking at my safety and my family…” Merai also admitted to seeing Waddell’s partner, Bontia Harris at the same gym and the former journalist on several occasions on the sea walls but never engaged them in conversations.

saturday, july 25, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

11

News

Region 2 Amerindian villages get new Toshaos A merindian communities in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) have elected their new Captain/Toshao who will manage the affairs of the community.

New Toshaos were installed in villages such as Bethany; Mashabo, St Deny’s (Tapakuma); St Monica; Wakapao and Akawani, while Mainstay and Kabababuri residents re- elected their Toshaos to serve another term.

The elections were conducted by the Region Two Administration and the Hinterland Department over the past days. For Betany in Supenaam Creek, Harold Marslowe was unanimously elected as Toshao, while Clarine Charles will serve as his deputy. At Mashabo Amerindian community, Sylvin Raphael will head the village as Toshao, while Amos Fredericks was elected deputy Toshao.

James Schaddle was

as Toshao, with Leo Gomes as his deputy, while at Kabakaburi in the Upper Pomeroon River, Cleveland

Re-elected Toshao of Kabababuri Amerindian Community in the Upper Pomeroon River, Cleveland Simon

elected as Toshao at St Deny’s (Tapakuma), while Roy Pearson was elected as his deputy. At St Monica in the Upper Pomeroon River, James Miguel was elected as Toshao. In the Lower Pomeroon, Errol Williams was elected as Toshao while Leon Boyan was selected as his deputy.

At Akawini Amerindian community, David Wilson was elected as Toshao and Carmilita Williams as

Deputy Toshao. Meanwhile at Capoey, the election had a tie. The two candidates Melrose Henry and Ester Rodrigues received 97 votes each. The Hinterland Department has announced that a new election for Toshao will be conducted in the village on July 28.

However, Councillors were elected at the tied election.

In another Amerindian community, Mainstay, Joel Fredericks was re-elected

Region 10 gets clearance for TV channel

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, NFMU Head Valmiki Singh and former Regional Chairman Sharma Solomon

H

ead of the National F r e q u e n c y Management Unit (NFMU), Valmiki Singh has advised that the Region 10 Broadcasting Inc (RBI) could be assigned a channel for use as a regional television channel.

Singh gave the technical recommendations during talks Thursday with former Regional Chairman Sharma Solomon, one of the directors of the new company representing the people of the bauxite community.

The tripartite meeting was convened by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo who holds the information and telecommunications portfolios. Singh has undertaken to make an assessment of the company’s transmission equipment, the Government Information Agency (GINA)

reported.

In anticipation of being granted a licence to broadcast, equipment was purchased since 2012. However, the previous Government failed to honour the commitment made to Region 10 in an earlier agreement. This significant development comes following the announcement by Minister of State, Joseph Harmon that the new Government would honour the 2012 agreement with Region 10. The ownership and management of a community television station formed part of that agreement and the company was set up for the purpose of applying for the licence to broadcast in Linden and surrounding communities.

Consultations commenced over a week ago and were initiated by Prime

Minister Nagamootoo and Director of Public Information, Imran Khan.

National Communications Network (NCN) Chief Engineer Dallan Harris provided technical advice.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo and Khan had earlier held discussions with Virgil Harding who manages the operations of Radio Paiwomak, the Annai-based community radio station.

These discussions included efforts to strengthen the operations of Radio Paiwomak along with extending the broadcast range. Prime Minister Nagamootoo has indicated that discussions have commenced with regard to extending NCN Television’s range beyond Linden to hinterland communities.

Simon was unanimously elected as Toshao. Nicholas Baharally was elected to serve as his deputy. The

elected persons are expected to represent the interest of their communities at various fora.

12 news

saturday, july 25, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Fire destroys Colombian Major rice conference for Monday Trade Fair Expo P

A

Some of the destroyed items

fire of unknown origin erupted in the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), Thomas Lands around 02:00h Thursday, destroying millions of dollars in goods of a Colombian Trade Fair called “Stop and Shop” being hosted there.

German Perez, owner of the now destroyed Expo, told Guyana Times that he estimated his losses to be $20 million, as about 90 per cent of his products were destroyed. The assorted arti-

cles included kitchen utensils, toiletries, construction equipment, and many brand name items.

He shared that he received a call from the YMCA owner around half past two, and was told that his expo was on fire.

He said they were still waiting on an explanation from the Guyana Fire Service about how the fire begun.

Perez mentioned that the trade fair was to be opened

by Friday July 24, and he

was hoping to work from the said location for the next several months.

When Guyana Times visited at the scene on Friday, most of the debris was already cleared away as Perez shared that he cannot grieve over what has happened, and he must start again.

He added that in a few weeks, he will ship in more equipment and continue his business at the same location, although he was still alarmed about the sudden fire.

resident David Granger is expected to address paddy farmers and rice millers on the way forward for the industry at a time when the industry is in crisis, with the collapse of the Venezuelan market and uncertainty in stakeholders accessing new ones.

The Government Information Agency (GINA) has reported that the President will deliver the feature address at the opening of the National Rice Industry Conference to be held at the Arthur Chung International Convention Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, on Monday. He is also expected to outline Government’s plan for the rice industry.

The Conference will be held under the theme, ‘Sustainable development amidst challenges’, and commence at 08:30h.The programme will include presentations from key stakeholders in the rice industry, deliberations on the current issues facing the industry and examine possible solutions on resolving these.

One of the main areas of attention during the discussions will be on creating avenues and establishing other markets, as well as ways of increasing the quotas for export of Guyana’s rice, taking into consideration the closing-off of the GuyanaVenezuela engagement, GINA reported.

Cost of production, yield

GINA has reported that the President will deliver the feature address at the opening of the National Rice Industry Conference to be held at the Arthur Chung International Convention Centre, Liliendaal

variety, proper husbandry and research capacity are other areas which will be discussed in detail. The forum hopes to take an open approach to addressing issues facing the industry.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Agriculture Minister Noel Holder are expected to participate in the event. The conference, which is being facilitated by the Agriculture Ministry, is one of the items listed on the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) 100-day plan.

Additionally, Guyana Times was informed that a presentation on delayed payment to rice farmers will be addressed by Chief Executive Officer of Guyana Bank For Trade Industry, John Tracy. From the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), Extension

Manager Collin Watson will speak on the cost of production at farm level. The Chairman of the Millers Association will also make a presentation on the cost of production at the mill level.

Presentations will also be done by Claude Housty on marketing Guyana’s Rice and the role of the GRDB, while purchase and sale of paddy will be done

by Allison Peters, Quality Control Manager of GRDB. Several farmers and millers from throughout all the rice growing regions in Guyana are expected to attend.

Chairman of the Essequibo Paddy Farmer’s Association Naithram, along with other farmers from Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) are expected represent Region Two farmers.

New initiative looks to bring soils into classrooms around the globe

A

new series of educational materials is teaching children the importance of healthy soils for our food, environment, livelihoods and well-being.

Developed by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the Washington, DC-based National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) as part of the 2015 International Year of Soils (IYS2015), the materials target children aged five to 14 years, using word games, puzzles, drawing activities and other interactive elements.

The four educational booklets are separately designed for beginner, intermediate, advanced and young adult students, with an accompanying educator’s guide for teachers. Originally produced in English to complement the exhibit on soils at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, the materials have been translated into French, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Arabic and Russian, and the content has been slightly adapted to suit the needs of different FAO member countries. All of the booklets are

available for download on the FAO International Year of Soils website.

FAO is now collaborating with Governments who wish to translate the materials into additional languages to be used in primary and secondary school curricula. Once finalised, all of the materials will be available online for free use by member countries, teachers and students, just in time for the beginning of the new school year in the Northern Hemisphere.

“Our collaboration with NACD helps us accomplish one of the main objectives of the IYS, which is to raise awareness about the profound importance of soil for human life. The materials produced will help FAO to educate the public about the crucial role soil plays in food security, climate change adaptation and mitigation, essential ecosystem services, poverty alleviation and sustainable development,” said Mario Lubetkin, Director of FAO’s Office for Corporate Communication.

“The ‘DIG IT – Secrets of Soil’ project – developed by NACD in collaboration with the Smithsonian National

Museum of Natural History and the Soil Science Society of America – has been highly successful in reaching US students to help them gain an appreciation for soil and the food and other products that come from it,” said NACD President Lee Mc Daniel. “We are proud to partner with FAO to expand the reach of these quality educational resources across the globe.”

NACD is a non-profit organisation that represents America’s 3000 conservation districts that carry out natural resource management programs at the local level to protect land and water resources. These districts work with millions of cooperating landowners and operators to help them manage and protect land and water resources on all private lands and many public lands in the United States. In addition to its work supporting conservation districts, NACD also works closely with soil scientists to produce a wealth of educational materials to teach students about the importance of conserving and protecting our soils. For more information, visit: www.nacdnet.org.

13 Granger raises Venezuela’s threats at US conference news

saturday, july 25, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

P

resident David Granger has said that if the threat currently being faced

by Guyana over its territorial boundaries is not resolved promptly, permanently and peacefully, it could lead to the deterioration of the security situation in the small states of the Caribbean Region.

The Guyanese leader was addressing the graduation ceremony of the Caribbean Security and Defence Course (CDSC) at the William J Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies in Washington DC, United States.

The CDSC is a six-week course focused on the Caribbean region. This year’s course started its distance-learning phase on June 15, 2015, and the inresidence phase, with 49 students from 17 countries.

Granger was focused primarily on the enormous threats “small weak states face by stronger larger states and the impact such threats have on the economic and social development” of the small states. He pointed to the ongoing controversy between Guyana and its Spanish-speaking neighbour Venezuela, which for the past 49 years has been terrorising Guyana for its territorial space.

“We have had to bear the burden of this threat. Investors have been intimidated; development has been derailed; projects have been obstructed. It is too much to bear for a country that

has less than a million people,” Granger told the graduating class. He said the issue was the principle of the sovereign rights of a country to exploit its own resources for the development of its people, the principle of the peaceful settlement of disputes and the avoidance of resorts to the use of force, threats and intimidation and the principle of the inviolability of international agreements and adherence of international law. According to Granger, small weak states are often subject to territorial threats from larger, stronger states.

“The small states, on the one hand, seek to guarantee security from external threats. They are compelled, on the other hand, in the context of its limited resources, to cater for the needs of its people. They must choose in the context of that limitation, whether to spend its money on rice or rifles or guns or butter,” he said Granger said there was a need for the Caribbean to become and remain a zone of peace in this turbulent world.

“We are the New World. We inherited the worlds of the Old World. The Caribbean has historically been the cockpit where extra-regional states, including the United States, Britain, Denmark, the Netherlands, France, Portugal, Persia and Spain vicariously struggled for supremacy,” he noted.

President David Granger

The footprints, he said, are still here, noting that the Region has endured enough conflict over the last 500 years and it was time for all to enjoy a peaceful coexistence.

He related his concern over the challenges faced by small states and how their security could be guaranteed in an unequal world. Granger noted that the Caribbean States now live in a civilised age of law, pointing out that small and large states must coexist peacefully in the Caribbean and elsewhere.

He related that Guyana for its part was committed to ensuring that the Western Hemisphere was spared any form of future conflict.

“It continues to employ the

Winners in ANSA McAL promotion collect prizes

Three of the winners (from left to right) Bunita Singh, Jean Benjamin and Shailendra Arjune are accompanied by TRINCHLORO’s Manager Padma Prashad (right) and Consumer Goods Brand Representative Randal Gibbs (left)

T

he winners in the first drawing of the TRINCHLORO Clean and White SURE CASH promotion on Friday collected their cash prizes of US$100 each at a simple ceremony held at ANSA McAL Trading Ltd Head Office, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerera (ECD).

The winners are Bunita Singh of Mahaicony, ECD; Shailendra Arjune of Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice; Ormeletta Bourne of Diamond Housing Scheme,

East Bank Demerara; Bibi Rozana Ramdat of Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara and Jean Benjamin of Paradise Housing Scheme, ECD. The second drawing will be held on July 31, and will give another five TRINCHLORO customers the opportunity to win. The final drawing is scheduled for August 28.

This promotion will give 20 TRINCHLORO customers the chance to win $2 million in cash, with the

first place winner receiving US$5000, second place US$3000, third place of US$1000 and fourth and fifth place of US$500 each.

Additionally, 15 persons will win US$100 in the three consolation drawings.

To enter into the promotion, persons are required to enter a TRINCHLORO Clean and White label along with their name, address and telephone number in entry boxes provided at all leading supermarkets countrywide.

tools of diplomacy, seek the solidarity of the international community in its desire to bring a peaceful resolution to the threat to its territory and its faith in the mechanism of collective security,” he stressed.

He noted that small states of the Caribbean did not only face territorial threats but also internal and international threats which could have their sources in political and strategic objectives of foreign states.

According to him, those threats could undermine the stability of the small states and could also escalate into terrorism. “Small states are extremely vulnerable to threats such as trafficking in narcotics, in persons and illegal weapons. These threats can spawn violent crimes,” he said Speaking to the graduates, Granger, who is himself an alumnus of the institution, iterated the Center’s good work in building good faith and neutral understanding in the hemisphere. He told them he was confident that they would understand the threats faced by small states in the Caribbean at the national, regional and hemispheric levels.

“The William J Perry Centre for Hemispheric Defense Studies has as its main purpose, the need to preserve peace within and between states of the Western Hemisphere,” he noted.

He said the democratic

waves which swept the world at the end of the Cold War left the notion that democratic governments would not usually go to war with each other. He said the establishment of democratic regimes, therefore, was expected to yield an important dividend in the preservation of peace.

“The Center for Hemispheric Studies was born out of an expressed demand for an institution that would provide this sort of information to both civilian and military personnel in the post Cold War world,” he informed.

He continued that the Center’s role was expanded over the last 15 years, as it now sought to promote a deeper understanding of the security by countries in the hemisphere and to find ways of ensuring cooperation, collaboration and coordination in achieving national objectives.

This understanding, he said, was valuable to civilian officials and military executives alike, “whether they come from a superpower or from a small state”.

Granger related that small states have become the central focus of international relations in the Region and that the end of bipolar international relations has allowed the spotlight on security of small states. He, therefore, charged the graduates to be ambassadors of peace and conveyors of hope.

14

guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, july 25, 2015

News

NY senator with Guyanese links found guilty on corruption charges …faces 20 years in prison

A

nother bum bites the dust.

State Sen. John Sampson was convicted Friday of obstructing justice and lying to FBI agents by a federal jury in Brooklyn, the latest in a long line of rogue New York politicians brought down by greed and lies.

Sampson put his head down after the jury forewoman said he was not guilty to count one, conspiracy to obstruct a federal investigation of a shady business associate. But the next count, the forewoman pronounced him guilty of plain obstruction of justice.

Sampson, 50, will automatically be kicked out of office as a result of the convictions for three felonies. He faces up to 20 years in prison.

The verdict was a steep fall for Sampson, once a powerful leader of the Democratic Conference in Albany and represents the 19th District covering Mill

FBI video showed Sampson meeting with cooperating witness Edul Ahmad in lounge of Vetro Restaurant in Howard Beach, where he told the businessman to keep quiet to investigators

Basin, Canarsie, East New York in Brooklyn, and a slice of Ozone Park, Queens.

The charges in the 10-count indictment stemmed from Sampson's alleged embezzling of hundreds of thousands of dollars entrusted to him as a courtappointed referee of foreclosure properties.

Last year, Federal Judge Dora Irizarry dismissed the

embezzlement charges ruling the statute of limitations had passed.

But Sampson went to trial for obstructing the investigation, and tampering with witnesses and evidence. He was also charged with lying to the FBI about his hidden ownership of a Brooklyn liquor store.

Federal prosecutors presented smoking gun evi-

dence during the three-week trial in a videotape secretly recorded by cooperating witness Edul Ahmad during a meeting at Vetro restaurant in Howard Beach.

When Ahmad told Sampson that he has received a federal subpoena for his business records and was concerned about turning over a check register that revealed a $188,500 loan to Sampson that the politician never reported, Sampson advises the shady businessman to keep quiet and he took the document.

"This opens up a can of worms," Sampson said on the tape.

Sampson also advised Ahmad, who was charged with mortgage fraud, to lie to federal prosecutors about their relationship. Sampson was acquitted of lying to the FBI about putting the arm on a longtime friend, Sam Noel, who worked as a supervising paralegal in the Brooklyn U.S. Attorney's office to obtain confidential in-

State Senator John Sampson was convicted on Friday of obstructing justice and lying to FBI agents. He was found not guilty of conspiring to obstruct a federal investigation of a shady business associate

formation about Ahmad's mortgage fraud case and find out who might be cooperating with the government.

Noel's efforts were uncovered by the feds, he

pleaded guilty, and testified against Sampson who he cared for "like a brother."

The false statements to the FBI were in connection with Sampson's secret ownership of a Brooklyn liquor store and about the check register. “Today’s jury verdict reaffirms the fundamental principle that nobody is above the law,” said acting Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Kelly Currie. “At the end of the day, it was his criminal self-interest that was his undoing,” Defense lawyer Nick Akerman vowed to appeal the convictions.

No sentencing date was set. The jury forewoman, Kim O’Meally, said they didn’t have much use for the government’s star witness Ahmad. “He’s dirty,” she said.

Sampson is among more than two dozen New York elected officials arrested or convicted by authorities since 2008. (nydailynews)

Digicel donates to Moruca Expo D

igicel Guyana Inc has once again thrown its support behind the Moruca Expo which got underway on Thursday and will culminate this evening with the crowning of Miss Moruca 2015.

Events and Sponsorship Manager Gavin Hope on Friday morning handed over the sponsorship cheque to Moruca Expo Committee Chairman Ingrid Harris at Digicel’s Headquarters, Kingston, Georgetown.

In presenting the cheque, Hope iterated that the telecommunications giant has been part of the event for the past few years and would continue to lend support since the company believed that the Expo was one that showcased Guyana’s rich

cultural diversity.

He noted that the company also supported activities that ultimately benefited the community and more so, brought people together to have fun, while at the same time exhibiting their culture.

He added that Digicel Guyana has been providing mobile services to the people of Moruca and its surrounding communities for a number of years and from feedback received, the service has been excellent.

Hope noted that a team would be heading to the Expo where residents and visitors could benefit from special deals during the three-day affair. The Events and Sponsorship Manager encouraged all to come on

board and have great time as the company celebrated with the indigenous peoples of this great land.

Expo Chairman Harris expressed gratitude to Digicel for the timely donation which would be used wisely. She posited that the money would undoubtedly help a great lot in the celebrations. This year, she noted, only five of the eight surrounding communities would participate in the Expo as a result of the Toshao Elections being held presently.

The three-day activity, she disclosed, commenced with the floodlight football and volleyball competitions on Thursday evening and continued on Friday, with the grand exhibition and

fair. The event will conclude with five young ladies vying for the title of Miss Moruca.

Although she has been in Georgetown representing Region One (BarimaWaini) in a music workshop, Harris was kept abreast as the event progressed. She also added that some businesses in Moruca and the Essequibo Coast have also contributed towards the Expo to make it a success.

Harris further stated that this was one of two major activities that were planned for the year, with the other being the fivea-side football competition slated for December.

On this note, she hinted to Hope that the village would be approaching Digicel for sponsorship.

Digicel Guyana Inc Events and Sponsorship Manager Gavin Hope presents the cheque to Moruca Expo Committee Chairman Ingrid Harris

Activity continues at Kick ’em Jenny but authorities say there’s no major threat

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n orange alert remains in place as elevated activity at underwater volcano Kick ‘em Jenny continues, but seismic and disaster management experts in Barbados, Grenada, St Vincent and Trinidad and Tobago are urging people not to panic, but stay vigilant, as it poses no significant threat.

As residents of those islands posted messages on social media expressing their fear of a possible tsunami, the UWI Seismic Research Centre (SRC) said it was “unlikely that an eruption will trigger a tsunami”, ex-

plaining that Kick ‘em Jenny’s vent, at 268 metres deep, is considerably lower than the depth at which very explosive eruptions can be expected at the volcano – 130 metres.

But because gases released by the volcano can lower the density of the water and cause boats to sink, even if it is not erupting, mariners have been advised by the SRC not to enter within a five kilometre radius of Kick ‘em Jenny’s summit.

The orange alert, which indicates there is highly elevated level of seismic and/

Vertically exaggerated SeaBeam image of Kick ‘em Jenny and newly identified craters and domes discovered in March 2003. Kick ‘em Jenny’s summit occurs adjacent to the crater rim at a depth of 185 metres. The deepest point on Kick ‘em Jenny’s crater floor lies at 264 metre depth

or fumarolic activity or other unusual activity, went into effect after strong, continuous signals were recorded at the volcano located eight kilometre North of Grenada, from 01:25h-03:00h on Thursday.

Disaster management officials in the four Caribbean countries highlighted in the alert went into planning mode and, at press conferences and in statements issued after their meetings, their message to residents was the same: there is no need to panic.

In Grenada, a statement circulated after researcher

at the Trinidad-based SRC Lloyd Lynch briefed disaster management officials indicated that the renewed activity at the volcano – which last erupted in December 2001 with no damage noted – represented no significant threat to the coastal regions of nearby islands.

He told an emergency meeting of the National Emergency Advisory Committee that more minor eruptions can be expected.

However, Lynch said, the volcano remains well below the surface, cancelling out any threat of a major tsunami. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

saturday, july 25, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

15

Around the World

Obama arrives in Kenya amid tight security

WWE terminates wrestler Hulk Hogan’s contract

S President Barack Obama has arrived in Kenya on a trip that will also include a stop in the Ethiopian capital, and a visit to the home of the African Union.

Obama landed in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, on Friday and was welcomed at the airport by the Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta.

At least 10,000 Police Officers, roughly a quarter of the entire national force, have been deployed in the capital Nairobi.

Parts of the Kenyan capital have been locked down and airspace was closed during the President’s arrival, leaving some of the roads empty on Friday afternoon, usually the busiest time of the week when streets are

orld Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has terminated its contract with Hulk Hogan, after a tape emerged of him using racist slurs.

Hogan debuted in 1977 and is one of the best-known names in the industry.

Hogan has apologised, telling People: “It was unacceptable for me to have used that offensive language; there is no excuse for it.”

The comments referred to came in audio transcripts seen

by RadarOnline.com and The National Enquirer.

WWE did not link the termination to the tape, saying “WWE terminated its contract with Terry Bollea (aka Hulk Hogan).

“WWE is committed to embracing and celebrating indi-

U

US President Barack Obama was welcomed at the airport by the Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta

jammed with cars.

The landmark visit to his father’s birthplace is Obama’s first as President, and is also the first time a sitting US President will visit Ethiopia and the AU’s head-

quarters in Addis Ababa.

The first AfricanAmerican President of the US is expected to address regional security issues and trade, and also touch on matters relating to democracy,

poverty, and human rights in the region.

Joining him on the trip is National Security Adviser Susan Rice, foreign policy aide Ben Rhodes and White House spokesman Josh Earnest.

Before heading off for the trip, Obama’s fourth to Africa since taking office, he spoke about the promise of, and difficulties on, the continent.

“Despite its many challenges – and we have to be clear-eyed about all the challenges that the continent still faces – Africa is a place of incredible dynamism, some of the fastest-growing markets in the world, extraordinary people, extraordinary resilience,” Obama said. (Excerpt

from Al Jazeera)

W

viduals from all backgrounds as demonstrated by the diversity of our employees, performers and fans worldwide.”

However, his lawyer said Hogan had resigned rather than being fired.

Hogan told People he was disappointed with himself: “This is not who I am. I believe very strongly that every person in the world is important and should not be treated differently based on race, gender, orientation, religious beliefs or otherwise.”

According to RadarOnline and The National Enquirer, Hogan’s comments were made in an audio recording submitted as evidence in his legal battle with gossip site Gawker, who he is suing over the publication of a sex tape. (Excerpt from BBC News)

World’s first malaria Burundi elections: Pierre vaccination approved Nkurunziza wins third term

B

T

he world’s first malaria vaccine has received a green light from European drugs regulators who recommended it should be licensed for use in babies in Africa who are at risk of the mosquito-borne disease.

The shot, called RTS,S or Mosquirix, would be the first licensed human vaccine against a parasitic disease and could help prevent millions of cases of malaria in countries that use it.

The vaccine was developed by British drugmaker GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in partnership with the PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative, Recommendations for a drug licence made by the European Medicines

More than 80 per cent of malaria deaths are in children under the age of five with most in Sub-Saharan Africa [EPA]

Agency (EMA) are normally endorsed by the European Commission within a couple of months.

Mosquirix, also partfunded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, will also now be assessed by the World Health Organisation,

which has promised to give its guidance on when and where it should be used before the end of this year.

Malaria killed an estimated 584,000 people in 2013, the vast majority of them in sub-Saharan Africa.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

urundi’s President Pierre Nkurunziza has won a controversial third term, taking nearly 70 per cent of the vote, according to provisional results from the country’s electoral commission.

Opposition Leader Agathon Rwasa won 19 per cent of the vote after his name was left on the ballot paper, despite a boycott.

At least 70 people have been killed since Mr Nkurunziza announced in April he would run for a third term.

The Government accuses the opposition of provoking violent protests.

Opponents say his bid was illegal, due to a limit of two terms in the constitution.

Burundi’s President Pierre Nkurunziza garnered nearly 70 per cent of the vote

Final, official results are expected at the end of next week.

Turnout was more than 73 per cent, higher than many analysts predicted, although it was significantly lower in the capital Bujumbura, where most of

the protests have been.

In an interview with the BBC after the declaration, Rwasa described the elections results as “a joke”.

“These are results set up in the electoral commission... not those expressed by the voters,” he said. (Excerpt

from BBC News)

Security worries delay start Fiat Chrysler recalls 1.4M cars after Jeep hack of Greece’s new bailout talks

T

alks on tying up a new bailout deal for Greece failed to start on Friday as had been expected, with officials blaming security worries for delaying the negotiations with international creditors who are detested by many Greeks.

Greek Government officials had said this week that the talks on the third bailout programme worth up to 86 billion euros (US$94 billion) would start in Athens on Friday.

But representatives of Greece’s creditor institutions – the European Commission, the European Central Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) – said they cannot begin until the right location is found, given the talks’ sensitivity and the wide public anger about austerity policies imposed under the first two bailouts.

“There are some logistical issues to solve, notably

security-wise,” a European Commission official said.

“Several options are on the table,” the official said, without giving more details.

The Greek Parliament has already approved two packages of reform measures, a prerequisite for starting the formal negotiations to hammer out details of the new bailout.

However, another source close to the talks said Greece had been asked to do more on reforms before top international officials could come to Athens.

The Government of leftist Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras held five months of acrimonious talks with the creditors before they finally offered to start talks on a new bailout – and only after the government missed a debt repayment to the IMF and had to close local banks for three weeks. (Excerpt from Reuters)

F

iat Chrysler has issued a safety recall affecting 1.4 million vehicles in the US, after security researchers showed that one of its cars could be hacked.

On Tuesday, tech magazine Wired reported that hackers had taken control of a Jeep Cherokee via its internet-connected entertainment system.

Chrysler said it was is-

suing a voluntary recall to update the software in affected vehicles.

The company added that hacking its vehicles was a “criminal action”.

Security researchers Charlie Miller and Chris Valasek demonstrated that it was possible for hackers to control a Jeep Cherokee remotely, using the car’s entertainment system which connected to

the mobile data network.

The two security researchers have spent years investigating car control systems and developing ways to subvert them.

The pair are due to reveal more information about their work at the Def Con hacker conference next month.

Shortly after the recall was announced, Miller

tweeted: “I wonder what is cheaper, designing secure cars or doing recalls?”

Fiat Chrysler said exploiting the flaw “required unique and extensive technical knowledge, prolonged physical access to a subject vehicle and extended periods of time to write code” and added manipulating its software “constitutes criminal action”. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Chinese arrests over death of cleft lip baby

T

wo people have been detained by Police in Shanghai on suspicion of killing a baby born with a cleft lip, Chinese state media report.

The two-day-old baby was found dead by doctors at the No 2 People’s Hospital in Chongming County last Friday, said the Xinhua news agency.

Those arrested are a doctor and the baby’s grandfa-

ther, who is accused of injecting the baby with chemicals.

Cleft lips are a common birth defect, but easily corrected.

Cleft palates, where a baby is born with a hole in the roof of the mouth, are more severe. The condition causes feeding difficulties and can also lead to problems with hearing and speech.

Xinhua said initial in-

vestigations indicated the grandfather had killed the baby by injecting him with potassium chloride, a drug used to treat potassium deficiency but which can stop the heart when used incorrectly.

The doctor, from the gynaecology and obstetrics department, is accused of supplying the drug and telling the grandfather how to use it, Chinese media reported.

Beam International (Future Smile in China), one of several charities which carries out free surgery for the condition, told the BBC that about one in 600 babies born in China each year have a cleft lip or palate.

Surgery for cleft lips can cost between 5000 (US$800) and 7000 yuan in China, and for cleft palates up to 10,000 yuan, said the charity’s China director, Shan Li. (BBC News)

16

News

saturday, july 25, 2015| guyanatimesGY.com

Law students, AG clash ...over “uncertain” Hugh Wooding agreement

By Vahnu Manikchand

I

n light of the ongoing woes with the Hugh Wooding Law School, students attached to the University of Guyana’s Law programme on Friday voiced concerns about obtaining their Legal Education Certificate, for which they have to attend a two-year course in Trinidad and Tobago.

The students were being engaged at a forum on Friday, when three new Law programmes were introduced as part of the curriculum by Head of UG’s Law Department, Sheldon McDonald. Legal Affairs Minister and Attorney General Basil Williams was in attendance and the students grabbed the opportunity to get an update on what was in store for their future.

Some of the issues raised by the worried students include the security of their acceptance at the Hugh Wooding Law School, the overwhelming increase in fees at the Trinidad-based institution and even the notion of a local Law School, which was touted. One stu-

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams

UWI’s Legal Education Council falls. He noted that Guyana as well as the University of Guyana and University of the West Indies were signatories to the agreement.

“So part of the issues subliminally that UG is arguing is as a party to the agreement, demonstrate to us what rights we obtain under that agreement and one of those rights

A member of the gathering posing a question

dent enquired what would happen to the local law students if Trinidad refused to accept the 25-person quota in the future.

Williams reassured this would not happen.

“Basically, there was a collaborative agreement between the University of West Indies (UWI), University of Guyana and the Centre for Legal Education and negotiations are afoot to write a consensus in that respect. We are not there yet, but I don’t envision where they will allow our students not to be able to proceed further with their legal education,” he stated.

Adding to the Minister’s remarks, the Law Department Head explained that the Caribbean has a Council for Legal Education under which

carved out is automatic entry, so I don’t believe that Governments, certainly the Government of Guyana will not permit it, will permit it either,” McDonald declared.

Increase

On the other hand, the Legal Affairs Minister was asked whether he thought the increase in fees by over 30 per cent was a deliberate act to deter Guyanese students from attending the Trinidad-based institution.

In response, William said that the sudden increase has also been bothering him and he was currently seeking the particulars to understand the rationale behind the decision.

The AG posited that the Law School should have given students at least a year’s notice before impos-

ing such an extreme hike in the fees. However, the students were reminded that the increase was across the board.

With this increased fee, local law students will now have to find an additional $800,000 annually.

Furthermore, another requirement added recently requires students to make full payment at the beginning of the course instead of the previous arrangement whereby only 50 per cent of the fees is paid at the beginning and the remaining throughout the course.

Meanwhile, another student pointed out that every year they face this “dancing” around when the time comes to be admitted to the Law School; as such, he enquired about the possibility of establishing a local law school in Guyana.

In response, the Legal Affairs Minister explained that they have considered this option and were weighing the pros and cons. In fact, he noted that all options were open, but he could only take ones that were specifically recommended to Cabinet. Nevertheless, Williams noted that he was in the process of consulting with stakeholders on having such a facility established. He added too that he would be appointing a committee that would look into the establishment of a law school in Guyana. “[It was] mooted some years ago and it never materialised for reasons many and varied, but rest assured we are going to revisit it,” the Minister reaffirmed.

However, former Registrar of the University, Vincent Alexander, who was also in attendance, informed the gathering that there is a proposal for such a facility. However, he explained that the proposal is not for the University of Guyana to be a Campus of UWI, instead it is proposed that Guyana have a law school similar to the one in Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica.

UG reintroduces legislative drafting, legal education majors

T

he Department of Law of the University of Guyana has reintroduced three programmes to its academic curriculum with the aim of offering a wider remit of legal education for undergraduate and post-graduate students in the country.

The majors include a Master of Laws (LLM) in Legislative Drafting, a Graduate Diploma in Legislative Drafting (GOLD) and a Diploma in Legal Education. The two courses on Legislative Drafting sought to provide skills and training for personnel in Guyana and within the Region as well as offer advanced qualification to professionals who are interested in practising in the wider Caribbean and Commonwealth.

Additionally, the two programmes will see stu-

McDonald, the two courses in Legislative Drafting are actually being reintroduced as they were previously offered years ago in collaboration with the Commonwealth Secretariat.

Mc Donald pointed out a major factor in the re-introduction of the programmes is the well-known shortage of draftspersons not only in Guyana but the world over.

Deepening legal education

“Notwithstanding the excellence of the results of the University of Guyana’s LLB Programme, it has been a one-tune channel and we thought the time has more than come to broaden and deepen the reach of legal education at the University of Guyana,” he stated. The Law Department Head added that programmes would be delivered substantively by those who had done so in the

world. She added that these programmes were designed following extensive consultations with stakeholders.

Delivering the feature remarks, Legal Affairs Minister and Attorney General Basil Williams underscored that most of Guyana’s top legal practitioners had their groundings at the University of Guyana and with these new programmes being introduced to the curriculum of the Law Department, the future of legal education was evolving locally.

He explained that these programmes were designed to address the social, economic and cultural needs of the nation. Additionally, Williams outlined that legislation is one means to regulate the conduct of society; hence, the need to have properly drafted laws. He too posited that legisla-

A section of the gathering at the launching of the new law programmes on Friday

dents being exposed to a variety of drafting styles and lectures which will allow them to select elements that best suit their national laws, and their own tradition, culture and jurisprudence.

On the other hand, the Diploma in Legal Education will target persons working in the Guyana Police Force, Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Prison Service and the wider Public Service including Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Chamber, Attorney General (AG) Chambers and the other various regulatory bodies such as the environmental authorities. The Magistracy and Judiciary as well as Non-Governmental Organisations such as human rights groups and environmental entities can also benefit from this programme.

The programmes were launched at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre under the theme “Enhancing Law and Legal Education for National and Regional Development”. These programmes are internationally recognised and will be offered in the upcoming 2015//2016 academic year.

According to Senior Lecturer and Head of the Law Department, Sheldon

earlier days. Furthermore, he noted that if any other lecturers were to be recruited, they must have “outstanding credentials”.

Also commenting on the staffing for the programme, Head of the Guyana Bar Association, Christopher Ram implored the UG administration to ensure that persons of the right calibre were selected to deliver the programmes. “The challenge is going to be great... challenging in the sense that you have to ensure that you attract the right calibre of members for the faculty… It is very important that we attract that calibre of persons that would gain us the respect and the comparability with the courses that are going to be offered by the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies (Barbados). Then we’ve got to make sure that we can attract, retain, pay and resource an equal calibre of persons,” he outlined.

Meanwhile, the Assistant Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Natasha BobbSemple remarked that the theme reflect the growing recognition that legislative drafting has evolved to become the cornerstone of political, economic and social transformation around the

tive drafting is a scarce and much-needed skill, especially in Guyana.

“Guyana is a litigious society with an average of over 6000 civil cases being filed in the High Court every year – some of those concerned challenges to provisions of laws as being ultra vires to Constitution. Indeed, we have even seen amendments to the Constitution being challenged,” he stated.

Moreover, the Legal Affairs Minister outlined that calls were being made for skilled draftsmen to be employed at Parliament in order to assist Members with drafting bills. He noted that this was a position he had taken in the 10th Parliament.

“We need a skilled draftsman and woman to draft legislation that harmonises with other Caribbean laws because of our aim of Caribbean integration and in some instances, with international standards because, we are signatories to international ... conventions,” he outlined.

Concluding, Minister Williams commended the work of the Head of the Law Department and his team in formulating the two postgrad and one under-grad programme.

17

news

saturday, july 25, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

DPP still to receive file on CrumEwing

D

irector of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Shalimar Ali Hack is yet to receive the file involving the murder of political activist Courtney Crum-Ewing, contrary to what a senior Police Detective had told this newspaper.

The DPP in a release on Friday refuted a Guyana Times article which stated that the Police file in question was never sent to her office. “The DPP’s Office has verified that a thorough check of its log book and computer system as of March 11, 2015, one day after Mr Courtney CrumEwing was killed and as of July 24, 2015, has shown that the Police file in question has not been received at this Office”, the release stated. The DPP’s Office further stated that since the Courtney Crum-Ewing murder file was never received at its office, it could not therefore have, “returned the file on Thursday and solicited additional information before making a decision,” as was quoted by a senior Police source in the newspaper.

Guyana Times was on Friday told that the file is actually with the Police as further investigations are being conducted into the execution of Crum-Ewing.

When contacted, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum revealed that investigations are ongoing and once completed, the file will be sent to the DPP for advice.

He could not say when the investigation would wrap up, taking into consideration the recent revelations.

As of Friday, Regan Rodrigues was being questioned by ranks of the Criminal Investigations Department in connection to the murder of CrumEwing.

The source also stated that Police are pres-

DPP Shalimar Ali Hack

ently questioning the former bodyguard of former Attorney General Anil Nandlall.

Crum-Ewing was gunned down on March 10, while encouraging residents of Diamond New Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara to cast their vote in the May 11 General and Regional Elections. A source had told Guyana Times that the .32 pistol, which was found in Rodrigues’ possession two Mondays ago, was tested and proven to be the same gun that was used to execute the ex-soldier.

Rodrigues was on Wednesday last charged and refused bail for being in possession of the Taurus pistol and 14 matching rounds.

He was remanded and will make his next court appearance for that matter on August 4. He was also questioned for the murder of Police Corporal Romein Cleto, who was gunned down in the vicinity of Avenue of the Republic and Regent Street, Georgetown in April 2013.

Also, he was questioned for the murder of Jason Wills, called “Teddy”, of Mahdia, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) who was shot at least seven times in May 2013 as he sat watching television at home.

DHB mobile plant to be mobilised to outlying communities

T

he recently acquired mobile asphalt plant, which has the capacity to produce 25 tonnes of asphalt per hour, will be utilised in the near future to deliver asphaltic concrete of the highest quality for road works in outlying and remote communities in Guyana.

Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC) General Manager Rawlston Adams, who oversees the Garden of Eden asphalt plant and mobile unit, posited that the latter would allow the Public Infrastructure Ministry “to achieve its goal of having paved roads in rural and outlying areas”.

The US$120,000 mobile plant is fully computerised, with pollution control confirming to the highest environmental standards and has a mineral filler unit. It is the only plant with this capacity locally.

The asphalt plant at Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara

“It is public knowledge that significant strides have being made to improve the quality of roads countrywide; and quality asphaltic concrete is important in achieving this,” Adams stated.

The overwhelming re-

quests for the standardisation of road construction across the country has prompted the DHBC management in collaboration with the Public Infrastructure Ministry to source the mobile unit, an investment, the GM said

“will benefit all the intended communities” and citizens.

He added, “Soon we will be able to take asphaltic concrete to Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine. These areas will have much better roads starting as early as the last quarter of 2015.”

18

guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, july 25, 2015

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saturday, july 25, 2015

19

than one in 10 athletes Froome has lead cut by More could be doping - Wada chief Quintana as Nibali wins M

C

Chris Froome

hris Froome has one more mountainous hurdle to overcome to claim a second Tour de France title after Friday’s 19th stage in which had 30 seconds chopped off his lead as Vincenzo Nibali claimed a controversial victory.

The Briton, who was spat at by a spectator, still retains a comfortable advantage with one more testing day in the Alps ahead before the final procession into Paris.

Froome leads by 2:38 from Colombian Nairo Quintana, who attacked the Team Sky rider in a gripping finale to finish second.

Spain’s Alejandro Valverde, who finished 2:26 off the pace among a group that included several of the race’s top ten, remains third, 5:25 behind Froome.

It was Nibali, however, who drew the Briton’s ire.

The Italian, who had

dropped out of contention in the race after a tough first week and a bad first day in the Pyrenees, broke away from a group of top riders 61 kilometres from the finish.

The break, however, came just as Froome suffered a mechanical issue, triggering an angry reaction from the Briton.

On his way to victory, the Italian caught and dropped Frenchman Pierre Rolland in the final climb, an 18-km ascent to the ski resort of La Toussuire at an average gradient of 6.1 percent.

The Astana rider crossed the line 44 seconds ahead of Quintana, who also attacked Froome with about six kilometres remaining, finishing 30 seconds ahead of the Briton.

Nibali made his move six kilometres from the top of the gruelling ascent to the col de la Croix de Fer. “I’m pretty sure he looked

around, saw I was in trouble, and attacked,” said Froome, who went to Nibali after the finish and “told him exactly what (he) thought of him”.

Some riders believe the wearer of the yellow jersey should not be attacked if he suffers a mechanical problem or a crash and Froome clearly agrees.

“In my opinion you don’t do that to the race leader,” he added.

It was another testing day for Froome who was spat at by a spectator after having urine thrown at him last week.

“It’s appalling behaviour,” said the Briton, who did not see the incident but was told by journalists.

The attacks on Froome began early on in the stage.

Alberto Contador and Valverde managed to join a breakaway group in the first climb of the day, the demanding col du Chaussy.

They were reined in just before the top but Froome had to make use of his team mates’ support earlier than expected.

Team Sky’s Geraint Thomas, who began the day sitting fourth overall, paid dearly for his efforts, cracking later in the stage.

He is now 15th after losing more than 20 minutes.

Froome has one more day in the mountains on Saturday’s last competitive stage, which ends with the 21 hairpins of the infamous L’Alpe d’Huez. (Reuters)

ore than 10% of elite athletes could be using performance-enhancing drugs, says World Anti-Doping Agency director general David Howman.

But he warns that the number of children doping to reach the elite level is Wada’s “biggest concern”.

Howman said sport’s increasing profitability had led to young athletes becoming more “vulnerable”.

Drug testing is limited in non-elite events, and Howman admits teenagers are “under the radar” of doping agencies.

He also said doping could become a criminal offence in five years.

Howman said Wada’s estimation of the level of cheating varied between sports.

“We have some guestimates based on some research undertaken over the last years,” he told BBC’s Hardtalk.

“It’s far more than we would wish it to be - over 10%.

That is of concern because those being caught by the system is far lower than that. Not in all sports, in some sports.

“The area of most concern for us is the level of young athletes who have not broken through into the elite who are trying to get that breakthrough and are susceptible to taking drugs because that’s a shortcut.

“Not only are they susceptible to taking drugs, they are being encouraged to do so by any one of a number of people that surround them - coaches, trainers, even parents - because it’s way to make a lot of money.”

Nigerian weightlifter Chika Amalaha, 16, was stripped of her gold medal after failing a drugs test at last year’s Commonwealth Games.

Doubts about cycling

Former Wada president Dick Pound has previously said that four out of five cheats are not being caught.

And Howman said he was concerned there might still be riders doping at this year’s Tour de France after former winner Lance Armstrong was stripped of seven titles following his admission he took performance-enhancing drugs.

Leader Chris Froome has been questioned about his performance during this year’s race but the Team Sky rider has always denied doping.

Howman said the numbers of riders doping had fallen “majorly” since Armstrong won Tours from 1999 to 2005, adding: “I have great respect for the way in which the UCI [world cycling’s governing body] are now running their anti-doping programme.”

The wider fight against

doping Regarding other sports, Howman said: “Significant ground has been made to make sure the clean athlete achieves a level playing field.”

American sprinter Justin Gatlin is due to compete in next month’s World Championships following two previous doping bans.

Asked whether he knew some of the world’s top athletes were cheats, Howman said: “Not to the same level as the information we had on Lance Armstrong but certainly we have information that is being investigated about a number of athletes around the world.”

Howman, who is to step down in 2016 after 12 years at Wada, admitted his organisation’s effectiveness was limited by a lack of resources.

“When I started at Wada, Wayne Rooney was being paid $4m a year by Manchester United,” Howman added.

“He’s now being paid something like $30m.

“We were getting $20m when he first started, we’re now getting $30m. Sport is saying to us [your money] should be increased but they are not doing it in the same proportion.

“That probably is not a good way of addressing the issue.” (BBC Sport)

Rain washes out fourth day in Chittagong

Bolt still harbours faint 400m hopes

Usain Bolt

W

orld’s fastest man Usain Bolt has not completely given up hope of one day competing in the 400m and still hopes to do so at a major games.

For those still harbouring hope at seeing the sprinter test himself over the event he

ran as a youth, however, might not be completely satisfied as he is likely to try and take part in the 4x400m relays.

“I’ve said to a few of the 4×400 guys that in 2017 I’ll just do the 100m and I’ll try to try the 4×4,” he said. “I’ll train myself and see if I’ll be ready. It would be nice to run a 4×4 in a championship,” Bolt told Universal Sports Network.

Many have touted the sprinter to compete and succeed over the quarter mile distance due to his height and dominance over the 200m event.

The sprinter, however, has continued to insist that the event is simply too punishing to put on his calendar full time.

“I think it’s the pain,” he said.

“Just seeing, everyday [my 400m teammates] training, I’m like ‘I don’t want to do that’.”

Bolt will turn his attention to getting back on top of one of his own events, the 100m, when he participates at the IAAF Diamond League meet in London on Friday.

(Digicel Sportsmax)

A

Rain washed out the fourth day

lthough rain interrupted parts of the one-day series and brought an early end to two of the three days in this Test, it had its first proper say of the tour when the fourth day’s play was washed out without a ball being bowled. The lost day has left a delicately poised match headed for a draw, even if play is possible on the final day.

South Africa’s openers had all but wiped away their deficit in the second innings and were set up to build a target

for Bangladesh, whose attack had successfully tied them down in the first innings.

Bangladesh would have been looking to do the same on Friday and give themselves something to chase on the final day, while South Africa were scoring quicker than they had previously and looked ready to dangle a carrot and give their bowlers something to defend.

All that may not happen with only a day to play and two innings to get in. South Africa will likely look to bat

out the final day, which will leave Dale Steyn on 399 wickets, with the chance to get to the 400 milestone in Dhaka next week.

It will also leave Bangladesh disappointed after they put on their most commanding display in the longest format against South Africa and dominated large sections of the match.

Perhaps the biggest what if will be what if the series was not scheduled in the monsoon. (Cricinfo)

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guyanatimesGY.com

saturday, july 25, 2015

Back surgery to sideline Bolt wins 100m at London 2012 Anniversary Games in season’s best time Gayle till December W

Chris Gayle

est Indies batsman Chris Gayle has said that he will be out of action for “two to three months” to address his long-standing back problem with surgery.

Speaking after Jamaica Tallawah’s loss 27-run loss to Trinidad & Tobago Red Steel in the Caribbean Premier League, Gayle said: “I have a charity game on the 2nd, but after that I will be out of cricket for two to three months. I am going to do a surgery on my back.

“So I need some time for recovery.

Maybe December, before I actually get back in cricket as well. You have got to wish me luck with that surgery and then I will be back strong. Who knows, we will see what happens.”

Gayle had issues with

his back even during the World Cup, missing the group game against UAE due to injury, and taking an injection to play in the quarter-final against New Zealand.

Gayle, though, has remained prolific for his clubs in T20 cricket; he racked up 491 runs from 14 IPL games, 328 runs from three Natwest T20 matches, and is currently the leading run-getter in the CPL, with 430 runs at an average of 61.42.

Should Gayle be sidelined till December as expected, West Indies will miss his services for a yet-to-be-confirmed triseries against Pakistan and Zimbabwe in AugustSeptember.

Gayle is also contracted to the Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League, which begins on December 18. (Cricinfo)

Bolt has faith in Mills

E

ven though Usain Bolt is still waiting to see if he has fully recovered from a left leg injury, the Olympic champion is sure he will be able to compete at next month’s world championships in Beijing.

Bolt withdrew from Diamond League meets in Lausanne in June and Paris this month because of his injury, but the Jamaican is scheduled to run in the 100 meters on Friday in London at the Olympic Stadium.

“I won’t know until tomorrow,” Bolt said Thursday about his fitness level. “We have been training good, I have been really working hard. It is all about getting the right execution.

“When the championship comes, if anyone knows anything about me, I will show up.”

The 28-year-old Bolt has not competed since running the 200 in New York last month, but he said being in

Glen Mills

Beijing is his goal and he will depend on coach Glen Mills to get him there.

“I’m never worried because he always finds a way to get me ready for championships,” Bolt said. “All we have to do is just work.

I need to work on my start.

I think the last part of my race, it always comes together. This is what we have been focusing on.”

Bolt won the 100 and 200 at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, both in record times.

A year later, he broke both those records at the world championships in Berlin.

Bolt’s main competitor in Beijing this year will be Justin Gatlin, a 33-yearold American who won the 100-meter gold medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics and has twice been banned for doping.

Gatlin ran a personal best 9.74 seconds in May and is considered a favourite for the 100-meter world title on August 23.

Bolt has yet to run under 10 seconds this year and was asked if it would be bad for the sport if he was beaten by Gatlin and lost his world record.

“I’m not planning to lose so can’t answer that question,” Bolt said. (Digicel Sportsmax)

S

ix-time Olympic champion Usain Bolt ran his fastest time of the year to win the 100m at the Anniversary Games.

The Jamaican, who has been struggling for form and fitness, won both his heat and the final in 9.87 seconds in wet conditions at the Olympic Stadium.

“I really wanted to run faster,” said Bolt, 28, who defends his world title next month. “But it’s getting there.”

Meanwhile, Britain’s double Olympic champion Mo Farah received a great reception as he won the 3,000m.

Farah, 32, was competing in England for the first time since allegations of doping were made against coach Alberto Salazar, claims which Salazar and Farah both deny.

Olympic heptathlon champion Jessica Ennis-Hill, returning to the scene of her greatest triumph, ran 12.79 in a world-class 100m hurdles - just 0.25secs off the personal best she set on this track three years ago.

On the weekend when she will decide whether to compete at next month’s World Championships in Beijing, the 29-year-old looks like she is finding her best form in her first season back since giving birth to her son, Reggie.

Besides Farah, other British winners on the night were 20-year-old Anguillaborn sprinter Zharnel Hughes, a member of Bolt’s training group in Jamaica, who clocked an impressive personal best to take the 200m in 20.05, and Laura Weightman, who won the 1500m.

Bolt had only raced once over 100m in 2015 before Friday, recording a time of 10.12 in April, because of a pelvic problem.

But his times on Friday were season’s bests and equal sixth-fastest times of the year over the distance, although they are still behind American Justin Gatlin’s world-leading time of 9.74.

Competing on the track where he won three gold medals at London 2012, Bolt started poorly in the final but

overpowered his rivals in the last 10m.

America’s Michael Rodgers was 0.03secs behind in second, while Bolt’s compatriot Kemar Bailey-Cole was third in a personal best 9.92.

Significantly, British 100m champion CJ Ujah ran under 10 seconds for the second time in his career, equalling his personal best 9.96 on a chilly London evening.

who transcends his sport back on the track.

Bolt ready for Beijing?

The Jamaican said in his press conference on Thursday he was not intending to lose in Beijing, where he won the first of his three Olympic titles.

Importantly, he has time to improve ahead of the Worlds and is closer to the heels of Gatlin than many had previously thought.

Usain Bolt

Bolt the showman Bolt promised to put on a show for the fans who endured a rain-soaked evening in east London to watch him compete in the first of a twoday Diamond League meeting.

As is always the way with the sport’s principal showman his performance was more than a dash to the line: there was a lap around the track in a classic convertible to open the night and the habitual fooling around at the start line before he got down to business.

There are those who question whether we will see the Jamaican, who has run the three fastest times in history, at his best again, because of age and injury.

But he won his heat effortlessly - running into a headwind - and while winning the final was more of a challenge, he still clocked a world-class time.

Thousands roared his every stride, flags waving and flashbulbs popping, simply pleased to see an athlete

Gatlin, a two-time drugs cheat, has run under 9.8 secs in the blue riband event four times this year - 9.74, 9.75, 9.75, 9.78 - while Bolt has now run just three 100m races.

While the year’s top three 100m sprinters, Gatlin, Asafa Powell and Trayvon Bromell, were not competing in London, Bolt’s times in the Olympic Stadium were a loud and clear message that a successful defence of his 100m and 200m world titles is not fanciful talk.

The knee injury which hindered him last season has healed, while the pelvic problem which forced the Jamaican to withdraw from Diamond League meetings in Paris and Lausanne this month doesn’t, on Friday night’s evidence, seem to be serious.

And his form will be a relief to those who regard Bolt as the saviour of an event clouded by doping and feared Gatlin would easily win a sprint double next month.

(BBC Sport)

FIFA to meet sponsors after reproaches from Coke, Visa, McDonald’s F

IFA will meet its leading commercial partners next month after three of them increased pressure for major reforms to soccer’s governing body following a series of corruption scandals.

FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke said that Coca-Cola, Visa and McDonald’s had written asking for information about what was being done to clean up governance of the sport. He admitted that scandal had made it difficult to attract new sponsors.

“Clearly, there were a number of sponsors, main-

ly three, its Coca-Cola, McDonald’s and Visa, who have expressed and sent a letter to FIFA, asking for information,” he told a new conference in the Russian city of St Petersburg.

“Two or three days ago we received a letter from all of them offering to meet together, so there will there will be a meeting next month.”

Criticism of FIFA’s governance came to a head in May when U.S. prosecutors indicted nine soccer officials, most of whom had FIFA positions, and five marketing and broadcasting company

executives over a range of alleged offences.

These included fraud, money-laundering and racketeering.

Valcke added that FIFA has been keeping its partners informed of developments.

“We sent (information) to all our commercial partners, not just those three,” he said. “We sent them an update, a summary, of all that has happened within FIFA since 2012 since the first reform process started, (of) what has been changed within FIFA’s administration and around FIFA.”

“Definitely, the current situation doesn’t help to finalise any new agreements, it’s a fact, and I’m sure that until the next election, until February 26, there (will be) no major (sponsorship) announcements.”

FIFA President Sepp Blatter is stepping down and a replacement will be chosen in February. Valcke also signalled that he would be leaving his job then.

NEW PARTNERS Valcke said that despite the current difficulties there was still enough time before the 2018 World Cup, to be held in Russia, to sign

up new partners.

The current sponsors have been goal in demanding changes.

Earlier this month, Coca-Cola urged Zurichbased FIFA to support the creation of an independent body to reform the way it is run.

McDonald’s said it had told FIFA that it’s internal controls and compliance culture were not consistent with expectations it has for its business partners.

Visa joined in the criticism on Thursday when it also called for an independent reform commission to be

set up.

“We seek to partner with those who think and act like us,” said Visa Chief Executive Officer Charlie Scharf. “I don’t believe that FIFA is living up to these standards.”

FIFA announced on Monday that it would set up a task force to recommend reforms, however this will be made up of representatives from the continental soccer confederations.

Those confederations are also responsible for electing the members of FIFA’s executive committee. (Reuters)

sports

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21

Quality of football on the rise in schools, says Hope

By Treiston Joseph

D

igicel Events and Sponsorship Manager Gavin Hope highlighted that the level of football at the grassroot level is on the rise, given the quality seen at this year’s Digicel Nationwide School Football Tournament that has now reached its quarterfinal stage.

“I would say it has improved from talking with the persons who can analyse and judge the game; they have seen the vast improvement of play and that is what Digicel will continue to strive to do, but there is still more to be done and we have to continue to give these kids the opportunity, the chance to develop and grow their game, but I must say, yes, the quality of play have gotten better,” Hope

Gavin Hope

stated in a recent interview with Guyana Times Sport.

Meanwhile, with the quarterfinal round set for various venues across Guyana, Hope indicated that he expected an action packed Sunday of football.

“We anticipate a high level of play come Sunday

for the quarterfinal and with the semis on July 29 and the final on August 2 I can only see more competitive football being played,” Hope noted.

Hope also urged the fans to come out in their numbers and support their respective team, “We want to urge the fans to come out and support your teams: Christianburg will be home, Berbice High will be home and it is because of the weather that we had to move the two Georgetown games to the Lenora track centre, so come out and support the kids,” Hope urged.

The semi-finals will be played on July 29 at the National Track and Field Centre at Leonora, West Coast Demerara.

The grand finale is on August 2 at the National Stadium, Providence.

Bolt satisfied after victory on return

U

sain Bolt was encouraged by his performance at the Anniversary Games in London, after he took victory in the 100 metres in 9.87 seconds.

Six-time Olympic gold medallist Usain Bolt conceded he still has work to do to return to top form, but was satisfied with his 100 metre win at the Anniversary Games in London on Friday.

The Jamaican has struggled for form and fitness throughout 2015, and was yet to run under 10 seconds in the 100m before this meeting at the Olympic Stadium.

With the World Championships in Beijing a month away, Bolt was looking for a strong display on a damp night in England’s capital.

Bolt ran 9.87 seconds in winning his heat, easing up at the end to raise hopes of an even quicker time in the final.

It was not to be, however,

Usain Bolt

the Jamaican getting off to a bad start before eventually powering through the second 50m and taking the win ahead of Michael Rodgers and Kemar Bailey-Cole in exactly the same time.

“Overall, it was a good run,” Bolt told BBC Sport.

“My start was really poor.

My coach keeps telling to me relax. I want to run faster and it is getting there.

“The first race was very smooth and I was very hap-

py with what I did. In the final, I got a bad start and it all went downhill from there.

“It is hard work and dedication. I just need to keep pushing myself. I feel pretty good. If I continue to work on my start, it will all be good.

“I really love this crowd and I enjoy competing here.

One of my most favourite moments was the 200m in London in 2012.” (Digicel Sportsmax)

Shot put more exciting than 100m – Kim Collins

F

ormer world champion Kim Collins says 100m rivals who “duck and hide” from each other are “killing” the event.

Usain Bolt will race in the 100m at the Anniversary Games on Friday with opponents Justin Gatlin, Asafa Powell and Trayvon Bromell not competing.

“I don’t see sprinting as the prime event anymore. These boys can hide too much,” said Collins, 39.

“Shot put has become more exciting than the men’s 100m because we very seldom see the best men lining up.”

Bolt is the Olympic and world 100m champion as well as the world record holder in the event.

Americans Gatlin and Bromell, and Jamaican Powell, are the top three athletes in the 100m this year.

Gatlin, the fastest man over 100m and 200m this year, beat Powell and compatriot Tyson Gay in the men’s 100m at the Diamond League in Lausanne earlier this month - all three men having served drug bans during their careers.

But any meeting between Gatlin and Bolt could have to wait until the World Championships in Beijing in August.

“Everybody wants to duck and hide. This is not boxing. It’s a race. It’s what we do,” St Kitts and Nevis sprinter Collins, who won

Commonwealth gold in 2002 and became world champion in 2003, told BBC World Service programme Sportsworld.

“When you want to duck and hide it is a form of killing the sport and the event.”

Gatlin has served two doping bans, having had an eightyear suspension halved to four years after testing positive for testosterone in 2006 - five years after first failing a drugs test in 2001.

“It’s unfair that we want to talk about his past. A lot has happened to many of us over the years,” said Collins.

“If there’s a problem with him then let [anti-doping agency] Wada do its job. Until then, he is running and running fast.” (BBC Spport)

22

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saturday, july 25, 2015

Jamaicans to test Guyanese GAPF shortlists 8-member team at Boyce/Jefford Classic for 2 overseas games

By Treiston Joseph

– Powerlifting Championships to be held on Sunday

G

uyana will be able to experience a few Jamaican sprinters this August when they participate at the Boyce and Jefford Track and Field Classic which is scheduled for August 15 and 16 at the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground.

Four Jamaicans will be coming from the Racers Track Club, the same club as Usain Bolt. While not the top athletes of the Club, they are expected to match up well with the Guyanese athletes.

With the Guyanese females rarely running under the 12s barrier, it will be interesting to see the ladies match up against DeAndrea Whithorne, who has a 100m personal best of 11.5s and Seidatha Palmer, who has a personal best of 11.6s.

The only current Guyanese sprinter that comes to mind who has the ability to legitimately challenge the two Jamaican females is Alisha Fortune, along with a 2013 version of Alita Moore.

Palmer also has a personal best in the 200m of 24.1s which is much faster than all of the Guyanese females running currently.

However, whether the Jamaicans can replicate such performances on the grassy terrain such as

T

Seidatha Palmer

Mackenzie will be another story which might favour the local athletes who are well adapted to such conditions.

Meanwhile, on the male side, Nicholas Maitland has a personal best of 45s in the 400 metres, while Keno Burell has a personal best of 47.15s in the same event as well.

The only males who readily come to mind that have any chance of topping the Jamaican quarter milers are Olympian Winston George,

Jason Yaw and Stephan James, with the latter two being unavailable for the event.

The local Guyanese sprinters will definitely have their work cut out for them when the Jamaican arrive, but will definitely have one thing going for them… home field advantage.

It is definitely a clash that will test the Guyanese ability to sprint with their Jamaican counterparts even if they are not top-flight Jamaican sprinters.

he Guyana Amateur P o w e r l i f t i n g Federation (GAPF) has shortlisted an eightmember team for the 15th Pan Am and 30th FESUPO South American Championships scheduled for Brazil in September.

Winston Stoby will headline the team, while the recent dominance of Vijay Rahim has earned him a spot on the team as well.

Three female lifters have also made the cut – Chloe Hunter, Andrea Smith and Britney Mack.

Britney’s father, Dr Osmand Mack, is also included on the team as well as Rudolph Blackman and Marino Jeffrey.

Meanwhile, the GAPF will be hosting an Intermediate and Masters Competition on Sunday at the National Gymnasium from 10:00h.

Some of Guyana’s top athletes will be a part of the tournament as well as Dr Mack, who is also the Treasurer of the GAPF. He noted that the event will be action packed.

The weigh-in will start from 07:00h as the GAPF have confirmed a total of 18 registered lifters for the event.

Britney Mack will aim to claim another title in the 52kg subjunior category

Champions Trophy no-show almost certain, says Cameron

– September tri-series not totally signed off on yet Pakistan is not totally signed off on yet, so that is a challenge that we face,” he stressed.

Jamaican Cameron believes this predicament must be a “wake-up call” for all concerned with West Indies cricket, especially the players.

“Yes, we have some very talented players; we have some players that have done very, very well for themselves, but as a team, as the West Indies cricket team, we

By Avenash Ramzan

C

ricket history is set to be created later this year with the West Indies team almost certain to miss out on a place in the Champions Trophy in 2017.

According to the International Cricket Council (ICC), the top eight teams in the official One-Day International (ODI) rankings as of September 30, 2015, will qualify for the tournament.

Currently, the West Indies are ranked number nine on the ICC ODI list with 88 points, just two points behind eighth-place Pakistan.

However, the Pakistanis, who are currently taking on host Sri Lanka in a fivematch ODI series, are leading 3-1, and a victory in Sunday’s final game in Hambantota will further open their gap on the West Indies in the ICC rankings. A 4-1 series victory will carry Pakistan to 92 points.

West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) President Whycliffe “Dave” Cameron told local media operatives earlier this week that he was not too certain of the Caribbean side’s participation in the Champions Trophy in England in two years’ time.

“I must say to you that we’re probably 90 per cent sure that we’re not going to

haven’t done well enough, and it’s a wake-up call to all of us that we have to change how we’re doing things, and the PCL [Professional Cricket League] is a change in that direction. Not everybody agree; people feel that it should be open up to all players from everywhere, but we believe we need to find the best solution to getting the best players playing and competing, that is one way of improving the levels right around,” the WICB top brass acknowl-

edged.

Earlier this week, renowned West Indian cricket commentator Tony Cozier, in his ESPNCricinfo column, spoke of implications of the Caribbean side’s possible absence in England.

“As tenuous as it has become and as demeaning as it is for a team that once utterly dominated the international game, West Indies value their status among the top eight international teams more than ever. To be absent

in England two years hence would further damage the already diminishing interest of players and public, both now under the spell of T20,” Cozier wrote.

Seven Champions Trophy tournaments have been held to date, and the West Indies have fielded a team in all, winning in 2004 in England, and finishing runners-up to South Africa in the inaugural competition in 1998 and second best to Australia in 2006.

Whycliffe “Dave” Cameron

make it to the Champions Trophy at this point in time,” he declared.

“It’s part and parcel of not performing year in, year out that we’ve found ourselves in this position. All we can say is that all our programmes have to be geared towards making West Indies cricket better. I don’t think if you try to do stop-gap measures by going to the Champions Trophy that serves anything at this point in time.”

Cameron added that a planned Tri-series involving the West Indies, Pakistan and Zimbabwe in September, which could have potentially lifted the Windies’ chances of qualifying, depending on the results, is not guaranteed at this time.

“That tri-series with

Flashback! West Indies won the Champions Trophy in 2004. They’re now on the verge of not qualifying for the 2017 tournament

WICB Regional U-15 tournament

Guyana, T&T game wash-out – Coaches disappointed

Glen Dwarika

By Rajiv Bisnauth

T

orrential early morning rain left the Albion Sport Complex waterlogged and although the sun came out for most of the day, round one of the West Indies Cricket Board Under-15 tournament between Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago was washed out without a ball being bowled on Friday.

The umpires left the Albion Sport Complex after the final inspection

The boundary edges were the most affected areas and after three inspections, the umpires called off play

at 13:30h.

There was plenty of disappointment in both camps as well as for the spec-

tators, who were mostly Trinidadian.

Trinidad and Tobago Coach Glen Dwarika believes that if the ground staff had worked more diligently, there could have been play.

“I am disappointed with the ground staff not doing their work, I know there are some patches up on the outfield and the boundary could have brought in a little, but if the mopping up was done how it was supposed to be done, we could have some cricket,” Dwarika said.

Guyana’s Coach Julian Moore said while it was disappointing, his players were now focused on the games ahead.

“Obviously we are disappointed but we have to put that disappointment behind us and look at the games ahead,” Moore said.

Guyana will play the Leeward Islands in round two today at the Guyana National Stadium.

Nauth’s Motor Spares cycling on today

N

auth’s Motor Spares, of Sheriff Street, Georgetown, has joined the long list of corporate entities that have thrown their support behind the annual cycling programme organised by national coach Hassan Mohamed.

The company has agreed to provide full sponsorship of today’s 11-race programme, which will start at 09:00h at the inner circuit of the National Park.

Mohamed said he was more than happy to welcome the new sponsor, noting that support from businesses and individuals was critical to the growth and development of the sport.

Mohamed has been staging the 11-race programme for decades at the National Park, with more than 25 races per year. Today’s activity will be headlined by the gruelling 35-lap School Boys and Invitational race, which is set to attract the

Hassan Mohamed

leading local senior riders and up and coming talents.

Other events planned for the day include the BMX Boys 6-9, 9-12, 12-14 and Open, Veterans Under and Over-50, Mountain Bikes and Juveniles.

Representatives of Nauth’s Motor Spares will be on hand to witness the races and later assist in the presentation of prizes.

Guyoil pumps $200,000 into...

We’ve picked up our tickets, and we’re about to move off on Tuesday,” Pemberton, who is also manager of the team, explained.

Pemberton, who also serves as Treasurer of the WICCBVI, said while the team were still in need of additional funds to meet their budget, they have received major backing from a few businesses and individuals, as well as the Government.

“Our budget was $4.7 million and with the help of the Government, who give us $2 million, we were able to pay for our tickets, which were $2.5 million, and we’re still in the deficit by $546,000 to close off our meals and accommodation. But we know with the support of corporate Guyana and our friends, we will make it,” an upbeat Pemberton outlined.

Benjamin said Guyoil was pleased to align itself with the team, noting that the company recognised the effort of the players. She wished the players well, noting that she will be paying keen interest to their performance in St Lucia.

“Being blind is already a challenge, and to see these persons can play cricket, we just wanted to give them a little push in helping them with their accommodation and meals. We hope that our small donation will help them this year, and hopefully next year we will increase it,” Benjamin divulged.

Financial bugbear

Meanwhile, Vice Captain of the national team and seasoned player, Ganesh Singh, said funding for blind cricket in Guyana has always been a bugbear, noting that Private Sector and Government support is crucial going forward.

“Every time we [the na-

tional team] need to leave this country, it’s a battle. At the last minute, we will get okay for the tickets. Caribbean Airlines had the tickets holding for us for about five days, we were fortunate that they did. We hope that things can change and the sporting associations can be better funded, because sports really helps with the social and physical development of an individual, and it is something we should definitely promote in Guyana,” Singh mentioned.

Singh revealed that the GBCA has had to resort to players moving around with donation forms to solicit funds from the public to ensure all areas of the budget

However, the national team did receive $50,000 from the Guyana Cricket Board for this year’s competition.

Singh is of the firm belief that much more can be done by the stakeholders in terms of financial support for blind cricket.

He posited, “It’s just not just a set of blind people going out there making fools of themselves, it’s a professionally played sport, and it’s not just competitive cricket for these people, it’s a vehicle for the empowerment of them – building their selfesteem, their confidence and so on, and we’ve seen the fruits of blind cricket, like myself. Blind cricket was the reason I came out

National players Ganesh Singh (right) and Gordon Sandiford

are covered.

In terms of financial support from the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) for the various territorial boards, Singh pointed out that the GBCA receives US$10,000 annually, which goes mostly to gear and encampment. He dubbed the WICB’s assistance package as “minimal support”.

With regard to funding to compete in the regional tournament, Singh was quick to point out that the national team did not receive such from the WICB.

23

guyanatimesGY.com

saturday, july 25, 2015

of my home, and I’m now all over the place doing a lot of things. WICCBVI and the local cricket boards need to do a lot more. At the policy level, at the Government level, I think we’ve come to the point where associations need to be supported more.”

One of the players, Gordon Sandiford, was enthusiastic that the team will be able to make the trip, following the tedious task of securing funding.

“It’s really a joyful feeling for me and the whole team [to go to St Lucia], and with

the effort that we put in the training, I know for fact that there will be a better performance than what we’ve done before. I’m sure about that,” Sandiford intimated.

The Guyanese will play their first game on July 30.

The eighth edition of the tournament will feature teams from the six traditional cricket territories of the Caribbean. The Jamaicans are the defending champions of the 40-over compe-

tition, while Trinidad and Tobago cricketers are the reigning champions for the T20 version.

The Guyanese are looking to improve on their bestever finish of third, achieved in the 2008 competition in Trinidad and Tobago.

The Guyana squad reads: Kevin Douglas (Captain); Ganesh Singh (Vice Captain); Vishaul Mohabir; Leroy Phillips; Musa Haynes; Crystal

from back page

Aulder; Anthony Robinson; Gordon Sandiford; Douglas Tika; Ceion Rollex; Sean Mitchell; Teshawn Rodney; Malita Bailey and Relon Sumner.

Four officials will travel with the team: Theresa Pemberton (Manager); Patrick Howard (Coach); Desmond Fraser (Adjustment to Blind Technician) and Cecil Morris (Assistant Coach/ Physical Trainer).

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

friday, july 24, 2015

Amazon Warriors and Red Steel clash today to enter final G

uyana Amazon Warriors and Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel will strive for a performance that eclipses their previous best at this year’s Caribbean Premier League as both sides fight for a place in the final of this year’s tournament at Queen’s Park Oval.

Both teams met in the final league match of this year’s competition and the Amazon Warriors came out on top after an impressive victory which was founded on the penetration of their bowling attack, headlined by Marchant de Lange claiming 4-23 as the paceman capitalised on the stranglehold imposed by spinners Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo and Sunil Narine.

“Darren is peaking at the right time” Red Steel captain Dwayne Bravo on his brother Lendl Simmons also led

the charge from the top of the order in that game, lashing out to strike 65 while Brad Hodge also gave added impulse to the innings with 33 from 25 balls. Hodge can change the dynamic of an innings and no player in the Guyana side can score as quickly as the Australian, and his contribution could well prove pivotal in Saturday’s vital match-up.

Despite losing to the Amazon Warriors less than a week ago, the Red Steel are still very much a resurgent side and Dwayne Bravo’s team this time have the advantage of playing in front of a home crowd, who will be buoyed by a fine recent victory in their elimator against Jamaica Tallawahs.

Captain Dwayne Bravo continues to lead by example, and his bowling figures of 5-23 against the Tallawahs were the best of this year’s competition. He now has 23 victims so far;

comprehensively more than any other bowler.

And while one Bravo is shining with the ball, another is making a big impression with the bat. Darren Bravo has been in fine recent form and the batter hit his biggest score of the tournament so far against the Tallawahs.

Speaking after their dramatic play-off victory over Jamaica Tallawahs, Red Steel captain Dwayne Bravo said: “We all enjoyed Darren batting and he is peaking at the right time. This was anogther match-winning innings and it is very important for us as a team for our best batter to be amongst the runs.”

The match-up between this firebrand batting and the economy of the Amazon Warriors bowling unit is just one area which makes this winner-takes-all game as compelling as it is pivotal. (CPLT20.com)

Both teams will be aiming for the best start in hopes of meeting the Barbados Tridents in the final on Sunday

Rest won’t hurt Tridents Guyoil pumps $200,000 into national team for final - Pollard B T WICCBVI Regional Blind Cricket tournament

By Avenash Ramzan

arbados Tridents captain Kieron Pollard is confident that a fiveday lay-off will not negatively impact the team as it prepares to defend its Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) title.

The Tridents booked an automatic spot in the final by finishing at the top of the CPL preliminary round pile with 12 points.

By virtue of that result the team will not take part in the semi-final round, which will feature second place Guyana Amazon Warriors, Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel and Jamaica Tallawahs.

The Red Steel posts 152

he Guyana Oil Company (Guyoil) on Friday morning plugged a significant sum into the national blind cricket team, which is set to

Two members of the team and Treasurer of the Guyana Blind Cricket Association (GBCA), Theresa Pemberton, made the journey to Guyoil’s Head Office on Camp Street, where acting Managing

tion was very significant, as it will help the Association to cover the costs attached to meals and accommodation.

“We’re very, very grateful to Guyoil. They have done something for us that we can’t begin to say thank

Kieron Pollard

for 6 in that first eliminator against the Tallawahs. The Tallawahs are responding.

“I think it is pretty simple. At the end of the day it’s the last day of the tournament, the final and you don’t need anything more motivating than that in order for one to come out and perform so for us it’s about trying to prepare well,” Pollard said.

The inspirational allrounder, in fact, believes the break could be beneficial.

“Sometimes you need that break from cricket, its been a long campaign, it’s

been up and it’s been down and what’s good for us and we have chatted about it as well is that we haven’t played that perfect game as yet, so we have the opportunity to try and prepare as well as possible... and hopefully it’s about coming and executing so it could go both ways, but at the end of day it’s cricket and the motivating factor is to win the championships. You want to go out and give your all, the guys should be pumped up and ready to go,” added Pollard. (Digicel Sportsmax)

GBCA Treasurer Theresa Pemberton (second left), receives Guyoil’s sponsorship cheque from acting Managing Director, Lesley Benjamin, in the presence of players Crystal Aulder and Musa Haynes, and Senior Confidential Secretary of Guyoil, Lynette Riddle

compete in the West Indies Cricket Council for the Blind and Visually Impaired (WICCBVI) eighth regional blind cricket competition in St Lucia, starting next week.

Director of the company, Lesley Benjamin, presented a cheque valued $200,000 to offset specific expenses related to the team’s travel.

A visibly elated Pemberton said the dona-

you enough, and it has motivated other people to help us. We hope through this, we can get more help, because we’re still in the balance. So that is where we are today. turn to page 23

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