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2 commit suicide in separate Essequibo incidents − 12-year-old hospitalised after consuming poison

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Issue No. 2733

Monday, January 11, 2016

Page 10

Over $740M owed to Region 2 rice farmers – Vice Chairman

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$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

PM calls on Opposition to work in partnership with Govt P12 Irrigation woes hit P9 Region 2 – several D&I structures need urgent repairs

Page 7

British teen murder

Police probing whether revenge was motive Page 3

– hidden belongings discovered Page 8

Nonpariel fire leaves 7 homeless The Nonpariel, East Coast Demerara home which was gutted by fire on Sunday leaving a family of seven homeless. Inset: The belongings of Bevaun Austin and her children which were salvaged from the burning house

Belize/Guyana rice importation dispute

Page 10

Health, safety requirements should not be barrier to trade - LaRocque

Controversial NICIL probe

SOCU’s P11 initiator joins call for COI

Raid of Sattaur’s residence

GRA lashes out at PSC for ‘malicious’ P7 claims

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monday, january 11, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, January 11 – 05:00h-06:30h and Tuesday, January 12 – 05:00h-06:30h.

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, January 11 – 05:05h-06:35h and Tuesday, January 12 – 05:45h-07:15h.

British teen murder

Police probing whether revenge was motive – hidden belongings discovered

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Weather: Thundery showers with cloudy conditions can be expected throughout most of the day, with sunny weather prevailing in the late afternoon. Light cloud cover can be expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.47 metres per second.

High Tide: 05:21h and 17:35h reaching maximum heights of 2.67 metres and 2.88 metres.

Low Tide: 11:09h and 23:36h reaching minimum heights of 0.55 metre and 0.41 metre respectively.

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Dead British teen Dominic Bernard others involved.

The house where Dominic Bernard was expected to stay at Kildonan

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nother breakthrough has been made in the investigation of the murder of British teen Dominic Bernard, with Police now probing whether revenge was the motive for the killing.

Guyana Times understands that investigators decided to explore the theory of a possible act of revenge after one of the suspects confessed to having a sour relationship with the deceased.

According to a Police source, one of the suspects, Aaron Hing, who is a close friend of the godbrother Staymon George, is a citizen of the United Kingdom, who was involved in several criminal activities during his recent stay in Britain. He was eventually arrested. Ever since, he has accused the now dead teen of being an informant and being the reason for him being locked up.

On this basis, investigators believe that the murder could be an act of revenge.

Police are also looking at robbery as a possible motive.

Sources indicated that the teenager came to Guyana to study film making and had reportedly left the United Kingdom with a large sum of cash and expensive high-tech equipment, including cameras.

The third suspect in the murder, Jameel Sinclair of Kildonan, who is a close friend of the teen’s godbrother, led a team of investigators

down a lonely road in the village of Nurney in Berbice and pointed out where he hid the personal belongings of the murdered young man. The investigators reportedly found a camera and some of its components.

A few pieces of equipment were missing and it was believed that they were sold following the murder.

Sinclair reportedly told investigators that on the day of the cold-blooded murder, he was instructed by Hing to bury the teen’s belongings and was promised $100,000 to do so.

Further, Police already confirmed that the teen’s godbrother, George, confessed to his involvement in the disappearance and death of Bernard.

Against this backdrop, the Police source told this newspaper that with the circumstantial evidence at their disposal, they are convinced that charges will be laid against the teen’s godbrother and the

Family tells tale Meanwhile, the public is still curious as to why it took the family three months to travel to Guyana although they knew the teen was missing.

A family member, when contacted via email, told Guyana Times that after the teen did not return home on November 7, 2015 as he should have, his father, Andrew Bernard, made a missing person’s report to the British authorities, who would have in turn contacted the British High Commission in Guyana and an investigation was launched.

However, after time elapsed and no solid information was forthcoming about his son’s where-

abouts, the father travelled to Guyana to inquire from the Commission what progress was made on the investigation.

The teenager reportedly arrived in Guyana on the evening of October 14 and was not seen since. His father, during his visit, met with Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum who promised that the Police would do everything in their power to solve the mystery and so they did.

The teen’s godbrother became a person of interest after he disappeared when Police attempted to contact him. As law enforcement continued to dig for information, Hing was added to the list of suspects.

Police eventually capture them both: Hing at a city hotel and George at a house in Tucville, Georgetown.

They have since confessed to beating and burying the teenager, but not before robbing him of his money and other valuables.

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

Editorial

ICT services for export

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he quest for growth should have been on the top of the agenda of the new Government since it acceded to office. Very sadly, however, it has been emphasising only the populist redistributive function of Governments – and even more sadly, directing more resources into its own pockets than to the populace.

But, while doling out benefits to the populace, especially the neediest sections, is positive, it is ultimately a zerosum activity: we are only redistributing a pie of fixed size.

The Government has to answer the question: “How do we increase the size of the pie?” While budgets are technically only focused on a single year of the Government’s activities, in the absence of the now disfavoured ‘five-year plans”, they can also be viewed as a slice or cross- section of the Government’s longer-term plans. From this perspective, the last budget was disappointing.

One of the Government’s initiatives to increase the growth rate of our economy that has not received enough attention is the previous Administration’s thrust into ICT4D (Information and Communication Technologies for Development). Up to now, the comments have been directed at criticising the initiative (fibre-optic cable, OLPF, etc) and its domestic impact (improving e-governance, competing with Private Sector providers, etc).

Unfortunately, the sector’s potential to alter the structural foundations of our economy by opening up the export of services has been completely blanked. The Government seems stuck in 19th Century economic dogma that saw development as a transition from agricultural to industrial production, with manufacturing being the prime ‘engine of growth’. Only “material” products are suitable for export, and services are confined to the domestic market in this view.

But towards the end of the 20th Century, however, developments in ICT effectuated a revolution in delivering services across borders. As a platform for growth and development, the phenomenon was encapsulated as the “3Ts” -– technology, transportability, and tradability. “Outsourcing” of services became a catchword as billions of dollars flowed from the developed countries into the ICT-savvy developing nations. Trade in ICT services is becoming increasingly more viable, with many businesses now dividing their operations across the world.

The rapid growth of China and India, which have been driven along two different paths, has rekindled the debate on the drivers of growth and development. China’s growth is led by traditional manufacturing, while India’s growth focuses heavily on services – representing the two different paths towards rapid development. And India has not been alone in exploiting the new opportunity, so has the developed world. In the last decade, services from developed countries have grown to 35 per cent of their exports while shrinking to 14 per cent of the developing world’s – and this includes India’s growth in this area.

It is very unlikely that we can match the economies of scale to compete with behemoths like China in industrial exports, but with our comparative advantage of English as our first language and a populace that still has a collective drive for education, we can certainly carve out a niche in the ICT service exports. These exports have primarily been in such areas as Information Technology, business-related, transcribing medical records, data services, call centres, education, entertainment production services, etc. These services differ significantly from the traditional services, which demand face-to-face interaction.

But we will not be in a position to exploit this new driver of growth unless we have both the human and infrastructural resources in place to be capable of offering the service. One World Bank study has shown that exports’ ‘quality’ in services is positively associated with growth performance: even one per cent involvement generated significant growth. For countries like ours where businesses are stuck in a “trader mentality”, ICT based exports will also ensure that traditional service activities gain in productivity from the 3Ts. Additionally, a host of new service activities will emerge as a result of unbundling and technological innovation.

The Government has been stressing the importance of “education”, but this “education” has to be yoked to some plan for increasing our exports. The Government should focus on ICT education and exports, and not just hand-outs.

Boys will be boys! These lads were having a merry time on Saturday as they practised their moves – jumps and swimming techniques –in the canal separating Mc Doom from Houston in Greater Georgetown (Marceano Narine photo)

Need for a holistic, multi-pronged approach to suicide Dear Editor, The Caribbean Voice commends the initiative of President David Granger in convening a high-level Cabinet meeting to craft a viable response to suicide, which seems to be sprinting towards a runaway crisis. However, we humbly and sincerely hope that this meeting catalyses a holistic, concerted, sustained and multi-pronged approach, as anything less could end up being an exercise in futility.

And while we are certain that the level of expertise and abilities at that meeting would have considered every possibility, we seize this opportunity to reiterate the following: 1. Convene a meeting of selected NGOs and other stakeholders as a next step in the process with the aim of setting up a national coordinating committee and, perhaps down the road, regional coordinating committees. This would ensure that duplication is avoided, scaffolding takes place, resources are maximised, follow-up is sustained and the work of NGOs and activists are coordinated, monitored and supported. Incidentally, a call for such a committee was mooted at the National

Stakeholder’s Conference on Suicide and Related Issues, organised by The Caribbean Voice and its partners in August 2015, at Cara Hotel.

2. Focus on collaboration, rather than an insular and individualistic approach to maximise impact as widely as possible, and foster piggybacking, so that suicide prevention awareness can take place regardless of the forum and so that the greatest possible number of persons can be involved in promoting prevention.

3. Take steps to extend the suicide hotline nationally and engage in an aggressive promotion campaign that can involve all the media, the Private Sector, the education and health sectors, and celebrities, VIPs and high-profile spokespersons.

4. Reach out to suicide survivors (those who had attempted suicide as well as loved ones of those who committed suicide) and engage them in sharing, as their experiences can have a defining impact as well as create emotive connections with their audiences. This can be one facet of an intense education programme that addresses myths and misinformation about suicide,

dispels the taboos that surround it and enable the average person to be more understanding and more sensitive about suicide and its connotations.

5. Bring back the Gatekeepers’ Programme and use it as a mechanism to train first responders in every community. These are the persons who can be the eyes and ears of the community to proactively identify warning signs and put in train a process to help those in need. It must be noted that such persons may also be able to build trust more easily than ‘strangers’ and provide comforting/safe scope for those in need to open up.

No one can doubt that a large part of the problem is that so many who committed suicide kept things bottled up and thus, family and friends invariably exclaimed that they never saw/knew that anything was wrong. After all, they are not trained to identify the warning signs and to engage in empathetic communication, as first responders would be.

6. To the current terms of reference for the Poison Control Centres, integrate measures that would ensure

the safest possible use and storage of agro-chemicals, the safest possible disposal of containers, and a process that would not only ensure that bona fide farmers are the only ones allowed to purchase such chemicals but that they are monitored to ensure the highest degree of responsibility in handling and usage. We have already, many times, referenced the Sri Lankan Model of Hazard Reduction as an exemplar in his respect.

Social activist Sherlina Nageer recently expressed online her frustration in trying to get embracing help for a woman who seemed suicidal.

It was clear that had there been a coordinating committee fostering a holistic approach, the person in question would have gotten all the help needed rather than the piecemeal and uncoordinated assistance that was provided and did nothing to get her out of the suicidal mindset. In fact, this experience makes it clear why so many fall through the cracks and why so many more never want to seek help.

Sincerely, The Caribbean Voice

M&CC removed Freedom House signs Dear Editor, The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) wishes to bring to the public’s attention that its property, specifically signage placed in front of its headquarters, was stolen on Thursday, January

7, 2016 by some individuals who appeared to be employees of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown.

The signage, amounting to three pieces, has been removed without the permis-

sion or consent of the PPP. The security on duty spotted at least three persons who swiftly grabbed up the signage and ran into a vehicle purportedly belonging to the M&CC. The Party considers this

a grave offence and has since written the Commissioner of Police to assist in the recovery of its property.

Sincerely, People’s Progressive Party

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Going after Ashni Singh Confusion over LGE process is a political vendetta Dear Editor, Minister Khemraj Ramjattan is reported to have stated he is going after former Finance Minister Ashni Singh over the release of some $4.5 billion that was used for various Government projects. The Minister transferred the State funds for public use in his capacity as a Minister without parliamentary approval. In New York, my AFC friends told me that their party’s leadership promised them that criminal charges will be filed against Dr Singh for spending money without parliamentary approval. In fact, right after the APNU/AFC was sworn in last May, AFC spokespersons in NY stated they intended to criminally prosecute Dr Singh for spending money not approved by Parliament. That is a political vendetta.

Minister Ramjattan, as a lawyer, and AFC (as well as APNU) political activists ought to know that a Minister carrying out his role in an official capacity (even without approval) cannot be held criminally culpable for what are considered “political acts” especially when such actions were approved by the Court and when they were also directed by the Minister’s boss, the President, and the Cabinet to which the Minister officially reports. Minister Ramjattan and activists of the ruling coalition appear not to understand parliamentary rules of governance as they are confusing criminal behaviour and parliamentary procedural actions. Violating parliamentary protocols is not necessarily a criminal act.

As a post-graduate student of (comparative and international) politics, I can confidently state without fear of contradiction that a government or a minister cannot and should not spend money not approved by Parliament unless under extreme (life and death) emergency conditions (called doctrine of necessity in political science) and even so, there is a limited period of time of unapproved budgeting. Parliamentary convention

calls for sanctions (with rare exception) of a government or minister that violates such a rule. A parliamentary apology or act of contrition can result in the body not applying sanction which can take the form of a no-confidence motion (dismissal of the Minister or the Government) or a temporary suspension (for a period of up to the rest of the sitting).

Egregious violations can lead to expulsion from the House.

Dr Singh’s action falls under “unappropriated expenditure” of funds and is a violation of parliamentary ethics or rules. But the High Court, under Justice Ian Chang’s ruling, forbade punishment, authorising the expenditure. Dr Singh claimed he acted (transferring the funds) based on his interpretation of Justice Chang’s ruling: Chang authorised the expenditure. There is no doubt that Dr Singh violated parliamentary rules. However, the Minister cannot be brought on criminal charges for violating the parliamentary rule because he claims the Court instructed him to do so. To not do so would have been in contempt of court.

My AFC friends feel if nothing else, Dr Singh should be charged for arrogantly spending State money. Arrogance is not a criminal act. If it were so, then more than half of Guyana, indeed almost all the politicians, including almost all AFC, APNU and PPP politicians, would be in jail. I never experienced arrogance from Dr Singh in my several encounters with him in Guyana and in the Diaspora.

He displayed utmost respect for me, my polling and my public-spirited work on behalf of Guyana and the Diaspora.

As best as I understand parliamentary rules and conventions, Dr Singh was not in contravention of parliamentary rules as per the court ruling (I disagree with the court ruling). Former Speaker Ralph Ramkarran may wish to give his views on the matter. If a minister misuses public funds for private gain, then criminal charges can be filed against

him and such acts have occurred in the Commonwealth.

On this point, I wish to note that the indefatigable anticorruption crusader Ramesh Maharaj, the former Attorney General of Trinidad, is of the view that a public official can be criminally prosecuted if he misspends public money.

But in Dr Singh’s case, he did not misuse State’s funds. Dr Singh transferred money from one account into another without parliamentary approval, but with authorisation from the Court, the President and the Cabinet. Thus, Dr Singh feels (and I agree) he did not violate parliamentary rules.

He could not be sanctioned

by Parliament and in fact, the Parliament tried to sanction him, but subsequently backed down. At any rate, the Singh matter has passed its political shelf life: sanctioning takes place within the life of the sitting of the body (not after its term has expired).

If Dr Singh or any other politician violated criminal statues, then they should be prosecuted and several of them have done so since June, including spying on Indian political activists and those not supportive of the Government.

AFC and APNU activists must not mix up political and criminal acts. Dr Singh’s action was political, not criminal.

Seeking political revenge, as AFC-APNU politicians have signalled by their actions, under the guise of criminal violations, is unacceptable. It is an abuse of process, setting a bad precedent that could turn back to hurt APNU-AFC politicians.

Ramjattan needs to differentiate his roles of a lawyer and a politician (Minister) and he ought to know that the court will not support his planned action or advocacy of criminal action against a Minister who acted as per the instruction of the Court and his President, as well as the Cabinet. Going after Dr Singh is a political vendetta.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Dear Editor, I perceive that the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGE) will be played out as organised chaos. It seems like after the 23-year void of LGE and the reformatting of the electoral districts, everybody is ignorant and confused as to the process of the upcoming elections. The ignorance is so glaring that there are some in the race stating emphatically that they are running for Mayor. As I understand it, the Mayors are elected from among the elected Councillors. One does not and cannot run for Mayor.

If among those who are engrossed in the process, there remains such blatant ignorance as to the process, imagine what eludes the minds of the electorate. With only two months left to the elections, there is yet to be any significant campaigning or sensitising among the voting public.

Except a candidate have significant funds or a huge volunteer squad, it will be virtually impossible to satisfactorily articulate and communicate his manifesto to his constituents.

I have decided to ask the voters in the Eighth constituency (Stabroek–WortmanvilleWerk-en-Rust) to consider me as their representative. My challenge is, how do I in two months, cover this constituency which extends from the drainage canal between South Road and Croal Street thence

along Chalmers Place thence into Hadfield Street at its northern extremity, to Princes Street at its southern extremity, to Vlissengen Road at its eastern extremity, and to the Demerara River at its western extremity?

I am wondering if there should not have been a longer time allotted to the campaigning process for such a significant election. The persons who will be putting themselves forward to represent their communities and spend taxpayers’ monies need to be vetted and their proposals need to be clarified and expanded upon.

Anybody could promise anything. What will be needed are debates and interviews, with tough questions being asked.

The voters in any and every constituency should be afforded the privilege of ‘town-hall meetings’ and question-andanswer segments involving their proposed representatives.

The intent of the LGE should not just be to fill positions. Guyana needs help and the best and brightest minds, with the most practical and comprehensive solutions, should be the ones elected to serve. And the constituents should get a good chance to make their objective evaluations of the candidates. After all, it is from among the elected Councillors that Mayors will be chosen.

President David Granger

has begun to extend the townships across Guyana. This will mean that persons with insight and political fortitude will have to lead in the establishment of new policies and regulations, in their respective townships. Their roles cannot be taken lightly.

Georgetown will be the town to watch. Recently, it has begun to look alive again. One would argue that it was dead owing to narrow political vindictiveness and administrative malice. Both sides of the political spectrum will argue that the other side was to blame. It will be wise, therefore, for the people of Georgetown to stay clear of electing anyone who can pivot the town back to the former ‘dead’ days.

Georgetown must elect Councillors and then a Mayor, who can attract support from whichever political party is governing the country.

It would be a travesty of anything decent, or unconscionable to allow Georgetown to become a political football ever again. So as you go to the polls, think hard and long about what you want Guyana to become. This will depend largely upon whom you vote for. Of course, this too will depend on what they say and don’t say. I just wish we had more time for vetting.

Pastor WP Jeffrey, Practical National Movement

Why can’t the M&CC fix the Stabroek Market clock?

Dear Editor, Why is it that the Georgetown City Council cannot simply repair and maintain the famous Stabroek Market clock?

All over the world, there are prominent clock towers such as the Big Ben in London; the Philadelphia City Hall tower clocks; the Saviour Tower clocks located in the famous Red Square, close to Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, Russia (the Tower is part of the Kremlin’s walls); the Peace Tower Clocks in Ottawa, Canada and the list goes on and on with many, many more.

But in Georgetown, in the heart of downtown, in our

capital, our Stabroek clock ground to a halt ages ago and was left like that, possibly to remind us that time stands still at City Hall with hardly any thing moving forward.

Why is this so? Are we cultural barbarians? Do we have to learn history to appreciate heritage?

Repairing it and keeping it going would not require rocket science. It is a mechanical clock, and some of its component parts may be worn or broken. With today’s technology, spare parts can be easily fabricated to replace the obsolete ones.

Are we inviting thousands of persons to visit our country in this year

of Guyana’s Golden Jubilee of its Independence, many of whom will certainly tour the Stabroek Market area, to glance upwards at the clock and then smugly retort to each other that time seems to be standing still in the city of Georgetown?

Digging a few drains and weeding a few parapets is fine, but if one morning, I could pass by the Market, and observe this iconic clock ticking away, for me it would be the first real step in the restoration of our capital to its former glory and I daresay for many others as well.

Sincerely, Debra Gibson

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Foundation

How to get control when your child is making you angry

By Debbie Pincus, MS LMHC

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hy is it so easy to go from “zero to 60” when our children make us angry? There are many reasons, but I think it’s mainly because we allow ourselves to go to 60. And in a sense, when we get up to 60 – when we react emotionally – we’re allowing the behaviour of our children to determine how we’ll behave rather than the other way around.

We do so many things automatically without even thinking about it. This is often because we believe that we need to get our children under control, rather than taking a moment to stop and think and say, “Wait, let me get myself under control first before I respond.” The best way to prevent yourself from getting up to 60 is to recognise that you are going there – and what makes you go there. In fact, in my opinion, that is probably one of the most important things you can do as a parent. ***Here’s a secret:*** when you get yourself under control, your children will also usually calm down.

Remember, calm is contagious – and so is anxiety.

When we as parents are nervous or anxious, it’s been proven that it creates anxiety in our children. I would even go so far as to say that being emotionally reactive is probably your greatest concern as a parent. Think of

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it this way: if you can’t get calm – if you can’t get to zero – then what you’re really doing is inadvertently creating the exact atmosphere you’re trying to avoid.

Here’s an example. Let’s say you’re teaching your child how to ride a bike. Your child is not getting it and is being whiny and cranky and talks back to you. You’re frustrated, annoyed, angry

acting because you feel like you have to get your child to learn how to ride the bike, try turning it around and ask yourself, “How do I get myself to really be calm and how will that be helpful for my child to get to where he needs to be?” Remind yourself that you’re not responsible to get him to ride the bike, you’re responsible to get yourself to zero. From

and disappointed, because inside you somehow feel responsible to teach him to learn how to ride this bike, and he just won’t listen.

Now you’re starting to get agitated about it. You yell at your child because you’re up to 60. The end result is that your child will probably fall off the bike. Here’s why: he’s so filled with the anxiety that’s surrounding him that he can’t concentrate. He’s feeling pushed to do something and he reacts to it by failing. What can you do?

Instead of snapping and re-

there, you can think about the most effective way to help him learn.

This is why I say that if we can’t calm down, we’ll probably create exactly what we’re trying to avoid –failure. Think about someone you know who is calm and serene; their presence helps centre everybody in the room. When you’re calm, that’s the effect it has on your child and your family.

It will help your child de-escalate, learn how to soothe himself when he’s nervous or agitated, and will make

him better able to do what he has to do in tense moments. And in that moment, he won’t have to fight against you, because you’ve effectively taken that pushpull – the power struggle – away by being calm when he pushes your buttons.

By the way, I understand that nobody wants to go to 60 – no one likes to be upset.

I think most parents’ goal is to get to zero, but often they just don’t know how to do it.

The truth is, everybody has to find the best way to do that for themselves. (I have some ideas about how to do that that I will explain.) But ultimately, it’s about understanding how important it is not to lose it – and not giving yourself permission to do so. And there’s a good reason for this. When we hit the roof in front of our children, what we’re really communicating is “There are no grown-ups at home.” We’re saying that we can’t manage our anxiety. And when you try to manage your child’s behaviour instead of your own anxiety, what you’re saying is, “I’m out of control.

I need you to change so that I can feel better.” So the goal is to acknowledge what’s going on, and to understand how important it is to get control – and to ultimately gain control of ourselves.

The question you’re probably asking is, “Easy for you to say. How am I going to get there?” (Excerpt from Empoweringparents)

Losing control of your daily life?

By Rebecca Wolfenden

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s a parent, are you frustrated that you’ve lost control and freedom in your dayto-day life? This is something a lot of people feel, but not many talk about.

Things that used to be easy – going to the grocery store, deciding what to watch on TV, visiting Grandma – can be challenging and sometimes just don’t happen.

A friend recently shared this story. She has a twoand-a-half-year-old and

a six-month-old, and she had plans to meet a girlfriend at a nearby bakery.

As she lifted her toddler into the stroller, he began to scream and arch his back. After several tries, and with a toddler howling in the driveway, she had to

cancel her plans.

My friend described her reaction to me: Adrenaline because her son’s screaming made her heart race Anger because she wanted him to behave Sadness because she wanted to leave the house Embarrassment because neighbours were outside and could see everything Sound familiar? A lot of parents have had experiences like this, both big and small. Whether it’s a trip to the bakery, a sim-

ple meal you wanted to eat together, or a family vacation you planned for months, you suddenly find that your best-laid plans are falling apart.

In these situations, it’s helpful to focus on the present moment and what will help you stay calm.

This allows you to assess the situation and decide what to do next. Can you make your original plan go forward with a little more work? Is it time to find a compromise? Or do you need to completely retreat and talk to your child at a later, calmer time?

One of the most difficult things to accept as a parent is that you cannot control your children, only your own reaction. It’s okay (and normal) to have feelings of frustration and sadness when your plans are not going as you hoped.

The goal is to take care of yourself so you can calmly think through next steps that are under your control. Hopefully you arrive at a solution that works for you.

In the end, my friend went inside and called her girlfriend. She brought coffee over and they all played outside. Not exactly what she wanted, but a good compromise.

Have you had an experience like this? You’re in good company here, share your story if you like!

(Empoweringparenting.com)

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monday, january 11, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Over $740M owed to Region 2 rice farmers – Vice Chairman

Raid of Sattaur’s residence

GRA lashes out at PSC for “malicious” claims O

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GRA Chairman Rawle Lucas

he Private Sector Commission (PSC) has come in for severe criticism from the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) for concerns expressed by the former over the manner in which the latter visited the private residence of its Commissioner General, Khurshid Sattaur to allegedly conduct a search and seize property.

In a media statement on Sunday, GRA Chairman Rawle Lucas said that the PSC had accused the GRA of searching the home of Sattaur, but “this was not so”.

He emphasised that the GRA did not search or seize any property as “maliciously” claimed by the PSC. “While I agree that the protection of human rights is important, that concern did not apply to the case where GRA officials went to the home of Mr Sattaur by mutual agreement on December 31, 2015 to retrieve the property of the Government of Guyana and to ensure that sensitive taxpayers’ data was properly secured,” Lucas stated.

He posited that the most “alarming feature” of the press release by the PSC was the embellishment of “erroneous information” that a search and seizure of property occurred at Sattaur’s home and these acts took place without any regard for Sattaur’s rights.

According to the GRA Chairman, the “troubling feature of that erroneous claim” is that the PSC seems to be seeking to drive fear and mistrust of the GRA into the minds of taxpayers which are the very things that the new governing Board is seeking to heal in its relationship with taxpayers.

“That the PSC would take time to carefully construct unsubstantiated statements without seeking to find out the position of the GRA does not speak well for its own integrity and comes across as a deliberate attempt to malign and frustrate an organisation that is trying to turn its tarnished image around,” Lucas said in the media release.

He cautioned the PSC to “be careful since continued distortion of facts would make it difficult” for those who had to deal with it to rely on anything that the PSC had to say.

Last week, the Commission stated that it

was both perturbed and concerned at the treatment of Sattaur who had not been formally accused of any wrongdoing and, to the best of the PSC’s knowledge, was on leave from the entity pending the results of an inquiry.

“He has not been asked to resign and as such, remains both the de jure and de facto head of the GRA. In the circumstances, if his electronic communication devices were required for purposes of the investigation, then the proper procedure would have entailed a request to Mr Sattaur to hand these over to the Board. We understand that the invasion of Mr Sattaur’s home was not conducted by the Police armed with a warrant for search and seizure of items from his home,” the PSC had contended.

According to the Commission, such an act would be a violation of Sattaur’s human rights.

Days after he was sent on 200 days’ leave by the new governing Board of the body, the tax boss was visited by his junior staff who, it was reported, took away his firearm and other items belonging to the State entity.

Many voices decried the handling of the situation, but Lucas on Friday during a press conference stated that the visit was given the go-ahead by the Commissioner himself.

“We felt compelled to protect the data of our taxpayers.

The only thing that we were interested in receiving from the Commissioner was anything he had in his possession that related to the work of GRA,” Lucas had said.

According to the GRA Board Chairman, when Sattaur proceeded on leave on December 17, the Board had agreed that he could retain possession of some items, with the understanding that all property and information that belong to the GRA would be removed and retained in the official repositories of the organisation.

Lucas said, however, there was some difficulty in obtaining the compliance of the Commissioner with respect to that directive.

“We did also ask during that period to identify other persons who might have other property belonging to the GRA and which may not be under the control of the Authority. We did not receive a response from the Commissioner, but later found that few vehicles were under the control of persons who were not GRA staff,” he had explained.

He told reporters that the Commissioner General was also questioned about what other property he had for GRA, and it was later learnt he had six vehicles, one of which included a golf cart.

“Realising that he was not complying, the Board realised that it would be best to retrieve the property of the Government. We had asked the IT staff to go to the

GRA Commissioner General Khurshid Sattaur

Sattaur house, with his approval to retrieve data, but before they went, they were told that they could not go.

We wanted to ensure the assets and property of the Government were properly protected,” Lucas had also clarified.

Guyana Times understands that there was also a link from the GRA to Sattaur’s home; however, that link was disconnected following his departure on vacation leave. (kristenm@ guyanatimesgy.com)

ver $740 million is currently owed as outstanding payments to rice farmers in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) by millers and despite the new crop being in its preparatory stage, nothing is being done by relevant rice stakeholders to source the monies on farmers’ behalf.

According to Regional Vice Chairperson Juliet Nandranie Coonjah, rice farmers are facing serious challenges, including lack of water in their fields, coupled with delayed payments. Coonjah said that according to a report she received from the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) Anna Regina Branch, rice farmers are owed $600 million for the last crop and $140 million for the crop before that by millers.

Coonjah said it was unacceptable and millers should make prompt payments to farmers.

She explained that many rice farmers were incurring additional expenses to pump water into their fields.

Many of them also have bank loans to repay and families to maintain.

Farmers have complained that whenever they ap-

Regional Vice Chairperson Juliet Nandranie Coonjah

proached millers, they were often told the millers still had “old stock”. According to one farmer, he owes the bank

and has his mortgage to pay.

He said he was very much frustrated, as millers were taking a lengthy time to pay farmers and farmers needed to start the crop, as it was their livelihood.

Farmers are, therefore, calling on the Government and Agriculture Minister Noel Holder to immediately intervene as they are financially strapped. Only recently, several rice farmers’ assets were seized by IPED as they could not afford to pay on time. Farmers also suggested that the Agriculture Minister hold a meeting with the commercial banks in an effort to reschedule loan payments, hence easing the burden they faced.

8 news Nonpareil fire leaves 7 homeless A monday, january 11, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

mother of six is now counting her losses after fire engulfed her Nonpareil, East Coast Demerara (ECD) house on Sunday afternoon, destroying the entire upper flat of her two-storey home.

Now homeless is Bevaun Austin and her children, who had only moved into the house some five months ago.

Guyana Times understands that the woman was not at home when the blaze

visited the scene, Austin, along with her parents and children, were congregated outside her yard.

They were contemplating their next move since nothing had been salvaged from the upper flat of the home, which contained the family’s valuables and important documents.

The traumatised woman told Guyana Times that she was driving along Mandela Avenue when one of her children phoned her

Austin explained that when the fire fighters eventually arrived at her home, they told her that they did not have enough water to put out the fire, because they had just left another location on the ECD where another fire had taken place.

As such, they had to use water from the nearby trench to douse the flames.

By the time the ranks of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) had the situation un-

of the house because they could not control it,” she related.

Guyana Times was told that as soon as the alarm was raised by the children, neighbours rushed to their aid and were able to remove items from the kitchen which was in the lower flat of the house.

The neighbours and public-spirited persons in the area began a ‘bucket brigade’ to douse the flames, since fire fighters had not yet arrived at the scene.

“This place always gets power outages in the area; for some reason, this place is not like Georgetown, steady blackouts and fluctuation of power… the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) came after the Fire Service arrived and cut the power line…whenever I know they have power outages and fluctuation, I would plug out everything,” Austin further explained.

Next step

The home which was gutted by fire on Sunday leaving a family of seven homeless

started. Her children, who were in the house, managed to escape the burning building without being harmed.

Reports are that the fire, which is believed to be electrical in origin, started shortly after 13:00h on Sunday, minutes after Austin left the home to take her visiting parents to the Parika Stelling, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

It was her 20-yearold son, who first became aware that a fire had started in the house and raised an alarm notifying his siblings, so they all rushed out of the blazing building to safety.

When this newspaper

to say that their house was on fire.

She said she immediately called the Fire Service to report the fire.

However, by the time she arrived at her home, the fire had already destroyed the top flat and the Fire Service was nowhere to be seen.

Fire Service ill-equipped to handle the blaze

According to the woman, it took her about 40 to 45 minutes to return home and she had expected that the Fire Service would have already been there battling the flames when she arrived.

der control, almost everything had been destroyed.

GPL and power outages

Austin stated that during the morning there were several power outages in the area, noting that this was a regular occurrence in her village.

“My son who was in the veranda said when the current came on about two minutes after, he smelled something burning. He got up and looked in; he heard a noise and saw fire coming from the points on the two opposite sides in the hallway. The chairs started to catch and their first response was to get out

In relation to what she planned to do now that she and her children were homeless and had no place to go, Austin, who was still in a state of shock, said she had not yet started to think of what she could do or where she would go.

“I ain’t really start thinking as yet, because we were not able to save any clothing or anything. First thing I have to think of is where to stay with me and my children. On Monday (today), they asked me to go down to the fire station and also the police station I have to go there too,” she stated.

Guyana Times also understands that some neighbours, in an effort to assist the family, gave them some bags of food and other items to tide them over for the next few days. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy.com)

Eyew tness Playing fast and loose… …with accountancy code of ethics

One of the hottest career paths in Guyana over the last decade or so has been accountancy. Suddenly, instead of becoming “doctor and lawyer”, some of our brightest young people are becoming accountants. In an era when you have to lasso youths into classrooms, why has this area been actually oversubscribed? It’s the money, baby! The money!

And it all comes back to supply and demand.

Businesses want their affairs to be run professionally and you can’t do this unless you’re able to follow the money trail. Enter the accountancy profession. But like in everything where money comes in (meaning EVERYthing in the whole wide world!), folks like to turn shields into swords.

And the accountancy profession’s been a willing sword. A standing gag in business goes: A fella asks his accountant how much profit he made. Without missing a beat, the accountant replies, “How much would you like it to be!” A few years ago, the American corporation Enron was brought down and its accountants were shown to be complicit in perpetuating frauds to the tune of billions of dollars. And US dollars. The profession tried to clean up its act across the world – introducing all sorts of codes of ethics and such like.

But, greed, like hope, beats eternal – especially hope of satisfying one’s greed. All of this popped into your Eyewitness’ mind as he read about the “Case of the $82M deposit in Republic Bank”. Seemed to be an “apparition” effect right out of Harry Potter: money popping in and out of accounts in banks, with accountants as the Wizards asked to provide explanations.

What the whole sordid incident shows at this point is how incestuous some of the players in our business, financial and governmental world are. Enron DID NOT prove to be a cautionary tale. Here we have an accountant, Christopher Ram who once plied his trade to the Bulkans of Precision Woodworking Limited (PWL).

A few years back when the “professional” connection had been severed, the latter asked the former to check out an $82 million deposit that had “apparated” – deposited and withdrawn – in and out of their accounts at Republic Bank.

Now, why would they ask Ram to do so, when he was no longer their accountant? Well, for one, Ram was now the accountant for Republic Bank…and the businessmen – one of whom is now our Minister of Communities! – had no compunction in encouraging Ram to break his Code of Ethics – if not the law. What does this imply about their assessment of Ram, from their previous long “professional” relationship? Ram’s ethics were elastic.

Subsequent events haven’t disproved the Bulkan Boys. Birds of a feather!

…with accountancy rules

Could be because your Eyewitness isn’t an accountant, he found more questions than answers with Ram’s letter of self-exculpation. He said that when the Bulkan Boys showed up at his office and asked him to investigate the “Case of the Apparating $82M”, he demurely demurred. But then continued: “What we did not disclose was that, out of an abundance of caution, we not only reviewed the working papers in our office, but a partner of the firm was asked to carry out a further review of the alleged deposit. We found that there was no such deposit.”

This means that Ram had to have kept the entire record of Republic Bank’s transactions as “working papers” – or accessed it – to make such a definitive statement: “there was no such deposit”.

Isn’t using a client’s records to investigate an “outside” request for info, an accountancy conflict of interest?

But the Bulkan Boys and Ram are all honourable men, no?

…but getting bit

Ram’s finding out “when you guh crab dance you mus’ get mud”. With all his finagling to play both sides against the middle, he didn’t expect Mook Lall to drag his big-money client Republic Bank into the gutter.

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

news

Water woes hit Region 2 – several D&I structures need urgent repairs

The Riverstown structure leaking although it is closed

S

everal drainage and irrigation structures, particularly in the Good Hope-Pomona and Riverstown areas, in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) are currently out of order or malfunctioning, so sufficient water is not being accessed to irrigate rice fields.

Over 20,000 acres of rice fields are currently under threat given the lack of proper irrigation.

The Good Hope and Riverstown structures have major faults (leakages) which if not rectified will negatively impact 8000 young rice plants.

After farmers complained, Guyana Times made a visit to the area, and it was revealed that the Riverstown structure was prone to tremendous leakage. Whenever the structure is closed to conserve water from the Onderneeming and Mashabo areas, leakages would result in water not being conserved. The ranger at the location said that he has communicated same to his supervisor.

At Good Hope, the situation is worse, as the structure is beyond repair.

Farmers related their suffering and noted that many of them depended on the structures and the system to release water in a timely manner. Farmers fear if the water is not released in a timely manner, their crop will eventually burn given the hot weather conditions.

The water level in main conservancies along the Essequibo Coast is relative-

ly low, and the irrigation system does not have the gravitational flow to reach the highlands.

The Anna Regina and Richmond areas are also in need of water. The Dawa Pump Station that has been put into operation by the Region Two Administration to assist farmers has thus far failed to do so in an efficient manner, as the pump engines are failing and there is no proper maintenance work being done on the engines.

Guyana Times understands over 80 drums of fuel have been dispatched to the area and to date, farmers have not received water in their fields. The pump at Dawa operates on an eight- hour basis and is said to be consuming large quantities of fuel.

Farmers at Cozier, an agricultural scheme, are also complaining of having no water for their fields.

According to one farmer who has over 500 acres of rice, he cannot irrigate his land as there is no water, and he is afraid when the water reaches his location from the Pomeroon River, it may become salty.

The farmer said if that happened, he would lose his crop.

Farmers in these areas are pleading with the Government of Guyana to immediately address their need by providing adequate and reliable drainage and irrigation. Thousands of rice farmers are affected as Region Two is predominantly a rice-growing area.

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News

2 commit suicide in separate Essequibo incidents − 12-year-old hospitalised after consuming poison

Akel Shurland

T

wo families on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) are mourning the deaths of their loved ones who tragically consumed poisonous substances in separate incidents.

Dead are 23-year-old Akel Shurland of Adventure Village and 27-year-old

Kaimwattie Persaud of Anna Regina.

According to information reaching Guyana Times, Shurland drank a poisonous substance after he crashed a friend’s car. Reports are the owners of the car allegedly requested compensation rather than him repairing the vehicle and out of frustration, the young man consumed poison on Old Year’s Day. He, however, succumbed on Sunday at the Suddie Public Hospital.

Meanwhile, Kaimwattie Persaud, a worker attached to GECOM’s office at Anna Regina, had a heated argument with her husband after which she consumed a poisonous substance. Reports are that the young lady went on an outing at one of the lakes along the Essequibo Coast and upon her return home, her husband confronted her about the trip.

Only recently, a 21-yearold and a 42-year-old hung themselves at Windsor Castle and Golden Fleece respectively. The 21-year-

old hung himself Christmas morning, while the 42-yearold father hung himself Old Year’s Night in his house.

The island of Wakenaam also recorded four suicides in December 2015.

This newspaper also understands that a 12-year- old is presently at Suddie Public Hospital battling for her life after also consuming a quantity of poisonous substance.

With the increase in the number of suicides in Region Two, residents are calling on the coalition Government to implement more programmes and seminars within the Region to educate persons on the issue.

According to Essequibo Coast residents, the Government has the responsibility to do more by providing recreational facilities, youth training/empowerment, and employment for young people. They are of the view that the Government policies to prevent suicide are not working, because more young people are ending their lives in this tragic

Kaimwattie Persaud

manner as a result of frustration, unemployment, money problems and domestic violence.

On Thursday last, President David Granger convened an emergency meeting with the aim of charting a course to address the prevailing suicide epidemic and to develop an action plan to get all stakeholders involved in a centralised approach to suicide prevention.

This is in light of the suicide tragedy which occurred on January 6 in Berbice involving two young lovers.

Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton; Junior Public Health Minister, Dr Karen Cummings; Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence; Social Cohesion Minister Amna Ally; Junior Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Minister Valerie Garrido-Lowe, and Junior Communities Minister Dawn Hastings all gathered at the Ministry of the Presidency to pitch ideas to craft an action plan to tackle the scourge.

Belize/Guyana rice importation dispute

Health, safety requirements should not be barrier to trade – LaRocque

C

aricom Secretary General Irwin LaRocque during a visit to Belize on Tuesday last commented on the country’s rice importation dispute with fellow Caricom state Guyana.

While careful not to make a pronouncement on whether the Belize Government was right or wrong to reject the rice shipment, LaRocque expressed that Caricom member states should not use the health and safety requirements as a barrier to trade, noting that it goes against the spirit of the framework for the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME).

“It is my understanding that the problem that was faced by the importer is not having obtained a requisite SPS [Sanitary and Phytosanitary] certificate and if I am correct, then I think it’s a legitimate concern that such a certificate ought to take place. What I will say generally is that sanitary and phytosanitary issues, which is what they referred to – issues dealing with animal health and plant health cannot and ought not to be used as protective mechanism and ought not to be withheld based on protecting a particular sector.

“It is only to protect the public at large from an animal health and human health and plant health standpoint and that is what is there. It’s a legitimate concern that all countries are fully recognised

by WTO [the World Trade Organisation]; it’s fully recognised by Caricom in our treaty. But it ought not to be used and should not be used as a protective mechanism for those who are producing.

“So, I would dare say, again, I am not very clear about all of the issues, but once that hurdle is cleared by future imports, if there is no health impediment be

Caricom Secretary General Irwin LaRocque it to human health or plant, one would have to determine on what basis such a permit could be withheld. It can be on the basis of protecting a particular sector or industry.

There are other mechanisms for that,” the Caricom General Secretary commented.

Some 75 tonnes of Guyanese rice was imported by Belizean businessman Jitendra Chawla, also known as “Jack Charles”, but was blocked from entering the market by the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) and currently remains under a Supreme Court injunction. The injunction is the only barrier preventing the Customs Department from destroying the rice. Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin will hear arguments tomorrow on whether or not the Order of Forfeiture was lawful or not.

According to reports, the official position is that the businessman did not get the proper BAHA paperwork, which included the Sanitary and Phytosanitary permits, to import the rice into Belize.

The Guyanese grain, if allowed to enter the market, would be sold at 69 Belize cents per pound, compared to $1.25 for Grade C rice that is being produced by that Central American nation.

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News

Controversial NICIL probe

SOCU’s initiator joins call for CoI F ormer Attorney General Anil Nandlall is mounting pressure on President David Granger to launch a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the bungled Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) investigation that led to the death of three persons: Guyana Defence Force Sergeant Robert Pyle, his wife, Stacy Pyle and Canter driver Linden Eastman.

The series of events surrounding the death of the GDF Sergeant has been shrouded in controversy, particularly in relation to the numerous conflicting reports that have emerged about the operation he was involved in at the time of his demise.

Nandlall, in a statement to the media, questioned several aspects of the operation, including its legality, as he reminded the President of his calls while in Opposition for CoIs to be mounted into a whole range of matters.

President Granger announced that a full probe into the botched operation was unnecessary, since the GDF Sergeant was on an “official mission”. He posited that the general Police investigation into the matter would be enough.

However, Nandlall argued that “the President has no power in law to stop the Police from investigating the possible commission of any offence, more so, where deaths have resulted”.

He explained that the coroner has a duty to investigate every unnatural death which came to his attention and the President had no power in law to stop either of the processes.

Nandlall added too that “it’s quite ironic that the Attorney General (Basil

Former Attorney General Anil Nandlall

Williams) tells the nation that the President wants the Coroners Act amended, because he wants inquests to be held into unnatural deaths which occurred under the PPP, but the same President unlawfully and capriciously shuts down any investigation into an incident which occurred a few days ago in which three persons died”.

Nandlall also posited that a CoI should seek to investigate a whole host of inconsistencies in the operation.

“Why was Brassington’s house being watched ? Why were his children or those believed to be his children , or Mrs Ramson Jr, hounded like criminals ? Are they suspected of money laundering or terrorism ? If not, what is the current mandate of SOCU? Why was an Army Officer part of a SOCU operation?” Nandlall demanded to know.

Radically different

The former Attorney General pointed out that he was instrumental in the establishment of this unit and

explained that it appeared as if SOCU has metamorphosed into something radically different from what was initially intended.

“It has confirmed my worst fears that SOCU is operating with an unknown, vastly different and perhaps sinister remit. I was instrumental in the establishment of this unit. Its remit was to investigate reports and information passed to it by the Financial Intelligence Unit. It was supposed to be part of Guyana’s AML/CFT [Anti-Money Laundering/ Countering the Financing of Terrorism] apparatus. It had no other mandate. Its officers were supposed to be investigators, accountants, lawyers and other technical personnel sworn in as Police Officers to confer them with Police powers in law, in order to carry out investigation into allegations and suspicions of money laundering and terrorism. It was supposed to be a civilian law enforcement authority, staffed with civilians to carry out civilian investigations. The Guyana Defence Force had no role to play in this unit,” Nandlall contended.

Already, the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA); Red Thread; the Private Sector Commission (PSC); the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce (CCC); the Guyana Bar Association (GBA) among others have expressed grave concerns over this development and called on the relevant authorities to be forthcoming and address the nation on this incident which has generated a magnitude of public disquiet with a matter of days.

According to reports,

Moraikobai 3-year-old’s death

Investigation launched

H

ealth authorities are investigating the death of a three-year-old girl after she fell off the top flat of a building in Moraikobai, Region Five (MahaicaBerbice).

Presently, only one health worker is attached to that particular village. A written report stated that medical assistance was delayed for a prolonged period, owing to the health

worker being unavailable at that time. However, conflicting reports reveal the health worker attached to the community is involved in other activities not related to her job and many times she is not on site.

Relatives of the threeyear-old, who was only identified by her last name Jacobus, related that on December 31, 2015, she fell off a building located within the community.

The child was at the time on the top floor, along with other children who were at that time making a cell phone call and were not paying attention when she slipped and fell from the building. After the health worker was not found, relatives attempted to have the regional boat transport the child, but that too was unavailable, as a result of lack of fuel. As such, the parents were forced to wait for a lengthy period of time before help was available.

The child succumbed to her injuries before receiving medical help.

Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton recently said that with all the conflicting reports being received, a thorough investigation has been launched into the incident.

Dead GDF Sergeant Robert Pyle

GDF Sergeant Pyle was assisting SOCU on a surveillance operation on the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) head Winston Brassington, who is on leave.

On the night in question, the special team reportedly staked out and hunted down the wife and brother-in-law of People’s Progressive Party

(PPP) parliamentarian, Attorney Charles Ramson Jr. Reports suggest that the special team thought the pair to be Brassington’s children.

In a case of mistaken identity, the special team approached the pair but failed to properly identify themselves in the process.

Their approach triggered fear within the two civilians who attempted to flee the scene. This led to a high-speed chase which took a turn on Carifesta Avenue, resulting in the death of GDF Sergeant Pyle, his wife Stacy who was in the vehicle with him throughout the operation; and Canter driver Linden Eastman who unfortunately was in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The GBA said the probe into the botched operation must take into consideration the level of sanctity of human life; the extent of the right to secure protection of the law, including the holding of independent inquiries into the loss

of human life; the importance of citizens being able to go about their lives and businesses peaceably; the recognition and regard for the privacy and private life of an individual; the duty of the State to act in conformity with the law and to protect its citizens; the role and function of the Guyana Defence Force, a body established under the Defence Act to carry out its responsibilities set out in the Constitution; the role, duties and functions of the Guyana Police Force and the Commissioner of Police in these circumstances; the establishment and operation of SOCU, its legal underpinning, staffing and reporting lines; the wrongful death, criminal liability, civil liability, immunity and appropriate redress; and the scope, operational procedures, reporting lines and accountability of Operation Dragnet which was announced not by the Commissioner of Police, but following a meeting of the Cabinet.

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monday, january 11, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Region 10 Land Selection Committee to be re-established

– Chairman expresses enthusiasm

By Utamu Belle

F

ollowing remarks of inheriting a “rubber stamp” Land Selection Committee from the previous Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) Chairman Renis Morian has now expressed enthusiasm about moving in the direction of having the Committee back up and running.

He made the revaluation at the January statutory meeting of the RDC on Thursday, after being asked by Councillor Douglas Gittens to provide an update on the state of the Committee. Previously, the Regional Chairman had questioned the importance of the Regional Land Selection Committee, indicating that he did not wish to pursue it, given the situation regarding land ownership in the Region.

He had contended that there were too many agencies involved in land ownership in Region 10, and noted that since the Council was “not an issuer of lands”, then

Region 10 Chairman Renis Morian

the idea of a Land Selection Committee was difficult to fathom. In fact, Morian had also stated that one agency needed to be responsible for lands instead. However, addressing Councillors at the meeting on Thursday, the Regional Chairman outlined his position on working to reestablish the Committee.

“I am more enthused now to move in the direction of a Regional Land Selection Committee ... after complet-

ing discussions at the next RDC meeting, we should have a Land Selection Committee in place,” he stated. The response was greeted by applause from Councillors.

In moving forward, however, Morian said he wanted the Land Selection Committee to be the final arbiter on lands in the region.

By Monday, he said, there should be a documented report on the state of lands and the Council’s expectations.

The findings are expected to be taken to Cabinet, as outlined by Morian. He added too, however, that the “raping” of lands needed to stop in Region 10.

The Land Selection Committee formed part of the August 2012 agreement which was signed between the previous Administration and the Region. It was established by way of Motion under the stewardship of former Regional Chairman Sharma Solomon in an effort to give assistance to residents and farmers seeking assistance with regard to land issues and ownership.

PM calls again on Opposition to work in partnership with Govt

By Indrawattie Natram

P

rime Minister Moses Nagamootoo took unity talks to Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) encouraging the Opposition, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) to work in partnership with the Government.

Nagamootoo was at the time speaking at the commissioning of the Lima Pump Station.

During his address, he said that whether Government or Opposition, the agenda is to work with the people resolving matters at the grassroot level. He called on the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) to work together in solving problems and to put aside differences and political agendas. As such, he is calling for unity and cohesion from all leaders and regional officials.

“No party in Guyana has an interest in the suffering of the people, today’s Opposition will be tomorrow’s Government, and whether you are in the Opposition or not, you have a responsibility to serve the people, because it is the people who made the decision to put you in,” Nagamootoo said.

He said while the Government of the day wants to do good, credit must be given to the Opposition for

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo

having a plan with the installation of the Lima pump being an example. The Prime Minister said the PPP deserved credit for having a

be given.

As such, he urged the Opposition to work in unison and partnership with Government, as both the PPP/C and the coalition have a responsibility to serve the people. He said that the relationship between the Government and the Opposition should be strong in planning and executing projects.

“Guyana needs everyone to pool their efforts particularly towards the 50th Anniversary, Guyana must have a place in the world, we must recover and earn the respect that Guyanese deserve,” Nagamootoo stated.

He urged farmers to put

While the Government of the day wants to do good, credit must be given to the Opposition for having a plan with the installation of the Lima pump being an example. The Prime Minister said the PPP deserved credit for having a drainage plan for the people of Lima; as such, the project was initiated to meet the people’s needs. drainage plan for the people of Lima; as such, the project was initiated to meet the people’s needs.

Nagamootoo also told the gathering he was with the PPP/C for 50 years and where credit was deserved, it should

more lands under cultivation and produce vegetables to feed the Caribbean.

He ended by reiterating calls for the Government and Opposition to work together and not divide the people.

Reduced imports from Suriname lead to revenue decline – Baksh

T

he closure of intransit bonds from Nickerie, Suriname to Corriverton, Corentyne, Berbice by Surinamese officials could be one of the reasons revenues have declined significantly in the region.

This is according to Head of the Customs and Excise division of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Jameer Baksh.

At a recent press conference, held at the entity’s Camp Street, Georgetown Head Office, Head of the Governing Board, Rawle Lucas lamented that revenues from Corriverton, which had a thriving multisectoral economy and border trade, have declined and have been a cry of shame compared to the revenues collected from small struggling communities across the country. Currently, some $1.3 billion in revenue has been collected.

He said the revenue body would have to make the decision to use its tax enforcement officers to seek compliance in this regard. According to him, the entity has the legal right to carry out such functions.

But Baksh told journalists that the Surinamese Government has introduced a new policy preventing bonds from coming to Guyana.

“So, there is a decline in imports from the Nickerie to

Moleson Creek. That is one of the reasons for the decline in revenue,” he explained.

Late in January last year, the local Private Sector Commission (PSC) was in praise of the operation of the duty-free bond in Nickerie, where exporters were allowed to store their goods before exporting to Guyana.

This had also allowed for better tracking of imports and exports between the two countries.

There was talk too that the scrapping of the Berbice Anti-Smuggling Squad (BASS) in July of last year may have lend to this decline, but the Customs and Excise Head said that had nothing to do with the low revenue collection from Berbice.

Meanwhile, speaking to journalists, Lucas said that with a new governing Board in place at the revenue body, it was still in the zone of transition, but he wanted every Guyanese to understand that it recognised from the outset that it had to pay attention to the interests and concerns of the people it served.

“We gather that there is a lack of respect and trust between the GRA and taxpayers. This is a recipe for disaster and fuel for taxpayers’ animosity, none of which is good for revenue collection. The Board recognises

that there is much work to be done. We are moving in a new direction. The Board expects that GRA will treat the protection of taxpayers’ data with the utmost sanctity and to ensure that relevant mechanisms are in place to deal with that matter.”

According to Lucas, he had to review the Authority’s policy regarding the protection of taxpayers’ information. It was during that review, it was found that there were huge gaps in the policy which needed to be addressed immediately.

“The Board is conscious that the GRA probably is the only entity in this country that knows or is required to know all of a taxpayer’s financial business. You are required to give up virtually all your information to GRA, but GRA also has no right to give out your information, unless it is requirement of the public by law. Anyone who has the taxpayer’s interest at heart should have no difficulties in this,” Lucas said.

He said the Board has moved to request the GRA to prepare enhanced policies which are already known for adoption. According to him, taxpayers’ information that is given to the Government is the property of the Government and no one else.

news

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monday, january 11, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Sugar CoI

Employment costs total 65% of operating costs – proportion will rise with wage increases

By Kristen Macklingam

W

ith the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) being a labour-intensive industry, its wage bill is a major component of its total operating costs as the employment cost continues to rise every year.

This is according to the sugar Commission of Inquiry (CoI) report, which states that while employment costs are presently about 65 per cent of GuySuCo’s total operating costs, this percentage will increase by the extent to which the demand of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) for wage increases is met.

“The irony in this scenario is that the production and productivity curve appear to be dropping while GuySuCo’s compensation curve moves in the opposite direction up and up, even as the industry needs Government bailouts to keep it afloat,” the report said.

In volume two (2) of the sugar CoI report, it is documented that the increases in wages and improvements in benefits are negotiated between the employer and the Union, which represents about 95 per cent of the total number of employees in the industry.

According to GuySuCo, the character and nature of negotiating, and the elements of the current compensation package have evolved from decades of customs and “ad hoc concessions granted over time” stretching back many decades, even before GAWU was recognised as the bargaining agent in 1976.

“Every year, the Union automatically submits its ‘demands’ for increases and adjustments in the compensation and fringe benefits package. More often than not, these demands bear little, if any, relationship to any objective criteria like ability to pay or market conditions or cost of living indices, etc,” it posited.

The Sugar Corporation further stated that negotiations were held between the employer, which was usually represented by a small num-

Officer (CEO) of GuySuCo.” Additionally, the sugar entity opined that the settlement is usually an acrossthe-board increase “plus whatever tinkering might have been done” regarding the fringe benefit aspects of the compensation package.

GuySuCo contends that the end result of this “annual charade” called ‘negotiations’ is another “unjustifiable increase” in the compensation package which further widens the gap between cost of production and revenues,

ber of staff in comparison to an “army of dozens” of Union representatives (shop stewards) from all estates.

The report went on to say that these negotiations “drag on interminably” in an atmosphere of subjectivity which reflected the adage “he who bangs the table hardest wins the day’’.

“The Union plays up to the gallery of Union representatives who hardly, if ever, participate in the discussions, but must be paid and transported at the employer’s expense in what is no more than a very costly exercise in futility, especially since of late, the Government eventually ends the so-called negotiations by imposing settlements via directives through the Chief Executive

eventually resulting in another dip in its coffers.

As such, according to the sugar CoI 2015 report, it was recommended that future negotiations should focus on a new proficient system for determining wages, salaries, benefits, incentives and related compensation matters.

This also included job evaluation. Meanwhile, particular attention should be paid to incentive schemes which encourage and ensure full, regular attendance at work, productivity and profitability, the report read.

It was also recommended that these negotiations be guided by international best practices, including the employer’s ability to pay. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy. com)

50th Independence Anniversary celebrations

Over 20 activities confirmed for Region 10

P

lans are in full swing for Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations in May, and Region 10 will not be left out.

The Region’s Commemoration Committee, which has been vigorously planning the activities, has put together over 20 events, confirmed by the Central Planning Committee as part of its calendar of activities.

The annual Linden Town Week (LTW) of activities has also been incorporated into the calendar and has been scheduled for May 15 to 25.

In addition, under the calendar, Mash Bash still forms part of the activities for Linden on February 23, along Coop Crescent, Mackenzie; however, there will be no costume parade as is customary. There have been additional changes, for example, the Region’s

annual Flag Raising ceremony has been shifted from the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) Ground to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) building at Mackenzie, Linden. The customary hoisting of the flag is scheduled to now take place outside the RDC building on February 23.

Another flag-raising ceremony is to be held on the same date in the Region at Worrel’s Park , Kwakwani. Since independence observances officially commenced on January 1, the Committee, consisting of Charles Sampson as Chairman, Deputy Regional Executive Officer (DREO) Maylene Stephens and Franklin Carew, has kicked into action. It also plans to host several medical outreaches commencing next month. An inter-faith church service in Linden

on January 3 kick-started the activities. A regional segment of “Roaring in the Golden Jubilee”, which was hosted on December 31, in Linden, also formed part of the activities. Inter-school Mashramani activities will be held from January 27 to February 5.

Region 10 also plans to send a team to Georgetown to be part of the National Costume and Float Parade in May. Other activities, including a Miss Independence Pageant, karaoke competition, boat cruise and Independence Sports Day and song-o-rama, are expected to form part of the activities.

The Regional Commemoration Committee is tasked with the responsibility of coordinating all activities in relation to the Region 10 edition of the 50th Independence observances.

Region 10 development consultations complete – residents’ feedback outlined

By Utamu Belle

T

he Plan of Action for Regional Development (PARD), an initiative piloted by Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) has wrapped up its consultation stage with residents.

As such, Regional Coordinator of the programme, Alfred Julien has outlined future areas of focus which will craft the Region’s development over the next five years, based on feedback from residents. Julien said that the goal of the Action Plan is for the Region to develop, with specific emphasis being placed on communities. A final draft has already been submitted to the Communities Ministry and the RDC. “The purpose of PARD is so that the people can have power, because it’s asking people what they want to see and trying to incorporate that into an action plan. And so we want to actually decentralise the whole system of things as they exist right now,” the Regional Coordinator explained.

The areas of focus include agriculture, health, education, public infrastructure, investment and tourism. Julien said, under PARD, Private/ Public Partnerships, cooperation, and accountability are also encouraged. He added that the Region 10 Land Selection Committee was an important area of focus with the idea of one stop shops.

According to Julien, a proposal was made for a 10-acre ob-

Regional Coordinator Alfred Julien

servation farm to be owned by the RDC. The aim, he said, would be for outsiders to observe farming best practices.

In the midst of brainstorming and holding consultations, Julien said, it was discovered that 85 per cent of fresh food consumed by people in the Region was sourced outside the Region.

“As a matter of fact, on our visit to Kwakwani, we passed a truck going to Kwakwani with vegetables to sell, and it didn’t come from Linden...The Plan is saying, this farm can produce 10 per cent of the needs for food in Region 10.”

In the area of education, the Regional Coordinator said it was proposed that a dormitory be constructed at the Linden Technical Institute (LTI), to facilitate students from outside the Region.

In the area of health, a proposal was made to upgrade the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) from a Level 4 to Level 5 hospital.

“We want to know that the ambulance makes less trips out of Linden with patients, so we can look after them right here. We plan to get that done over a five-year period,” he said.

In the area of public infrastructure, Julien stated that the aim was to have a 24-hour supply of potable water for Linden and Kwakwani, while for the rest of the Region, the target will be 12 hours.

Quality roads also form part of the infrastructural plan outlined by residents.

“Hopefully within the next five years, if someone wants to find you in Linden, they should be able to plug in their GPS (Global Positioning System),” the Regional Coordinator outlined. There are also possibilities for a green economy, Julien said. “We’re hoping that we can have hydro at Tiger Falls over the next five years,” he added.

The PARD, a five-year development plan, is owned by the RDC, with support from Central Government. IDEA International was contracted

by Government to assist with the programme. It has also seen the involvement of a local consultant charged with developing the programme, which will eventually move to other areas across the country.

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guyanatimesgy.com

monday, January 11, 2016

Regional

Mexico says Sean Penn interview US Army General concerned about potential ISIS attacks helped catch “El Chapo” in Caribbean

A

secret interview given by Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, the recaptured Mexican drug kingpin, to the American actor Sean Penn helped authorities locate his whereabouts, according to a Mexican law enforcement official.

The interview between Guzman and Penn, purportedly held in late 2015 in a hideout in Mexico, appeared on Saturday on the website of Rolling Stone magazine.

An anonymous Mexican official said it was the Penn interview that led authorities to Guzman in a rural part of Durango State in October.

News of Penn’s secret meeting came as Mexican officials weighed the possibility of extraditing Guzman to the United States, something they had ruled out earlier.

Authorities aborted an earlier raid because Guzman was with two wom-

A

The interview between Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman and Sean Penn was purportedly held in late 2015 in a hideout in Mexico [Rolling Stone]

en and a child. But they were able to track him to Los Mochis, Sinaloa, where he was captured on Friday.

He was arrested after a shootout in Los Mochis, six months after he escaped Mexico’s most-secure prison. Five people were killed during the operation that caught Guzman, who has twice escaped from prison.

Arely Gomez, Mexico Attorney General, said on Friday that Guzman’s

contact with actors and producers for a possible biopic helped give law enforcement a new lead.

In the Rolling Stone’s interview, when Penn asks Guzman about whether he is responsible for the high level of drug addiction in the world, he responds: “No, that is false, because the day I don’t exist, it’s not going to decrease in any way at all. Drug trafficking? That’s false.” (Excerpt from

Al Jazeera)

2 Argentine fugitives escape manhunt

A

huge manhunt in Argentina netted only one of three fugitives convicted of three murders, officials said hours after claiming all had been caught.

The three broke out of a maximum-security prison almost two weeks ago.

President Mauricio Macri’s office initially said they were captured northwest of Buenos Aires, but Police later said that two remained at large.

The latest twist is a major embarrassment to the new President, correspondents say.

The Police manhunt – shown on live television –

has gripped the country.

Police say the man they captured, Martin Lanetta, was caught after the car the men were travelling in rolled over in the chase in Santa Fe province, about 500 kilometres (300 miles) from the capital.

The other two escaped on foot.

Victor Shellac and brothers Christian and Martin Lanatta were serving life in prison for kidnapping and murdering three men allegedly connected to a drug trafficking ring.

President Macri – a conservative who replaced Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner after elections in

December – had accused the previous Administration of not doing enough to crack down on drug crime.

Last month, the men escaped from one of the country’s most secure prisons using a fake gun to threaten one of the guards.

Martin Lanatta had leapt into the political limelight last year when he accused the presidential chief of staff, Anibal Fernandez, of complicity in the killings.

Fernandez denied the accusation, but it damaged his campaign last October to become the new Governor of Buenos Aires province. (Excerpt from BBC News)

top Army General in the United States is worried that a few Islamic extremists in the Caribbean could carry out terrorist acts in the Region.

Commander of US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), General John Kelly said about 100 Islamic extremists left the Caribbean Region to join Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) fighters in the Middle East last year – some of whom were killed – and the number had risen to about 150 this year.

However, his worry is less about the impact those Caribbean nationals have

on the ISIS fight overseas and more about what they can do in their homelands.

“I am more concerned particularly now it seems like the Islamic extremists and terrorists have shifted a lot of their message, and that is, ‘hey, rather than come to Syria, why don’t you stay at home and do San Bernardino, or do Boston, or do Fort Hood’,” he said, referring to incidents of terrorist attacks in the US. “My concern as the SOUTHCOM Commander, is . . . even just a few of these, you know, nuts can cause an awful lot of trouble down in the Caribbean

because they don’t have an FBI [Federal Bureau of Investigation], they don’t have law enforcement like we do. They don’t have TSA [Transportation Security Administration].

They don’t really have the same kinds of things at the airports that we do, in terms of checking the comings and goings of people . . . l,” Kelly told journalists at a Department of Defence Press Briefing at the Pentagon on Friday.

The Army General said the US was therefore trying its best to help those countries, like Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica.

(Excerpt from Caribbean360)

New ECCB Governor appointed

T

he Monetary Council has appointed Timothy Antoine as Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB).

Antoine, a Grenadian national, succeeds Sir K Dwight Venner who retired on November 30, 2015.

He is the holder of a BSc degree in Economics with Management from the University of the West Indies and an MSc in Social Policy and Planning from the London School of Economics.

The appointment of Antoine followed a process that included identification of suitable candidates by a Search Committee led by Sir Errol Allen, interviewing of these candidates and the submission of recommendations of the Search Committee to the Monetary Council.

ECCB Governor Timothy Antoine

The Monetary Council, the highest decision making body of the ECCB, interviewed the two top ranked candidates before making its decision.

The Monetary Council expressed its appreciation of the Search Committee for its service and thanked all the candidates who were considered.

In welcoming Antoine,

Victor Banks, Chief Minister of Anguilla and Chairman of the Monetary Council, noted that “Antoine is an outstanding Caribbean professional with a clear vision for the ECCB and demonstrated commitment to the development of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union”. (Antigua Observer)

Bahamas National Security Minister PAHO working with Caribbean visits FBI HQ for crime talks Govts to “prevent, detect ahamas’ National are reviewing certain mat-

B

Security Minister, Dr Bernard Nottage, met with US officials at FBI headquarters in Washington, DC, on Thursday to discuss concerns surrounding the crime problem in The Bahamas, Prime Minister Perry Christie said.

Christie also said that he (Christie) met with Police Commissioner Ellison Greenslade earlier this week to finalise plans to implement the Government’s new crime-fighting strategies.

Christie told the media that Nottage and US officials reviewed matters that could impact what the Bahamian Government did in the crime fight, particularly with gangs.

He was responding to questions surrounding crime and a US Embassy

Bahamas National Security Minister, Dr Bernard Nottage

advisory, which revealed that five US citizens have allegedly been sexually assaulted by jet ski operators in the last year and a half.

“Dr Nottage and the Chargé d’Affaires [met] yesterday and today at the FBI headquarters in Washington where they

ters that will be important to what we do here in The Bahamas,” Christie said.

In an advisory on Tuesday, the US Embassy in Nassau warned American citizens not to patronise the water sports industry in The Bahamas after a jet ski operator allegedly raped an American tourist over the weekend.

In response, Transport and Aviation Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin said the man charged with the crime did not have a licence to operate a jet ski.

When asked for more details on the Government’s crime plan and when it will take effect, the Prime Minister responded, “...I expect the Commissioner of Police in his annual report to speak to what is going to happen.” (Excerpt from Nassau Guardian)

and respond” to Zika Virus

T

he Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), said it was working with Caribbean Governments “to prevent, detect and respond” to the Zika Virus.

On Friday, PAHO said starting in March 2014 and through the first week of 2016, 14 countries and territories of the Americas, including the Caribbean, have reported cases of Zika infection.

The Virus, which is transmitted to humans by infected <<Aedes aegypti>> mosquitoes, causes symptoms including light fever, rash, conjunctivitis and muscle pain.

The health organisation says a current con-

cern is the effect of Zika Virus on pregnant women and new-born babies.

PAHO said there was little information on transmission of the Zika Virus from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth, stating that perinatal transmission has been reported with other vector-borne viruses, such as Dengue and Chikungunya.

The studies are now being conducted on possible mother-to-child transmission of the virus and its possible effects on the baby.

In November 2015, PAHO said the Brazilian Health Ministry noted a marked increase in microcephaly, in which the head

circumference of newborns is smaller than expected.

PAHO said that that discovery coincided with Zika Virus circulation in the country.

With support from PAHO and other agencies, “health authorities are carrying out studies to clarify the causes, risk factors, and consequences of this increase in microcephaly”, the statement said.

PAHO said the Zika fever occurs about three to 12 days after the mosquito bite, and the clinical manifestation of the virus is often similar to Dengue, also a mosquito-borne illness. (Excerpt from CMC)

monday, January 11, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

15

Around the world

Nearly 400,000 Syrians go Arab Foreign Ministers accuse Iran hungry in besieged areas of undermining regional security

As aid groups seek to send food to 42,000 residents of Madaya, communities in 15 areas find themselves under siege

A

s aid agencies prepare to deliver food to Madaya, on the outskirts of Damascus, and two other besieged towns in Idlib province, an estimated 400,000 people are living under siege in 15 areas across Syria, according to the UN. A deal struck on Saturday permits the delivery of food to Madaya, currently surrounded by forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar alAssad, and the villages of Foua and Kefraya in Idlib, both of which are hemmed in by rebel fighters.

Owing to a siege imposed by the Syrian Government and the Lebanese Hezbollah group, an estimated 42,000 people in Madaya have little to no access to food, resulting in the deaths of at least 23 people by starvation so far, according to the charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF).

Reports of widespread malnutrition have emerged, some of them suggesting that Madaya residents are resorting to eating grass and insects for survival.

In Kefraya and Foua, about 12,500 people are cut

off from access to aid supplies by rebel groups, including al-Nusra Front.

On December 26, Syrian Government forces set up a checkpoint and sealed off the final road to Moadamiyah, a rebel-controlled town on the outskirts of Damascus, demanding that Opposition groups lay down their arms and surrender.

The Moadamiyah Media Office, run by pro-Opposition activists, estimates that 45,000 civilians have been stuck in the area for more than two weeks. (Excerpt

Those protests focused on the Place de la Republique. Sunday’s ceremony remembered that show of unity, which attracted more than a million participants.

Relatives of some of the victims also attended Sunday’s event, the culmination of a week of ceremonies.

France is still under a state of emergency following the November 13 attacks in Paris, in which gunmen linked to the Islamic State group killed 130 people.

A plaque unveiled in the Place de la Republique pays tribute to victims of

both the Charlie Hebdo and November attacks.

The words of the writer Victor Hugo, on his return from exile in 1870, were also read out, including the observation: “Paris is a sacred city. Whoever attacks Paris attacks the whole of humanity.”

President Hollande continued on from the Place de la Republique to the Grand Mosque in Paris.

His visit comes as French mosques have been opening their doors to nonMuslims over the weekend to overcome prejudice against Islam. (BBC News)

were of sexual offences.

“If such a horde gathers in order to commit crimes, that appears in some form to be planned,” Justice Minister Heiko Maas told the Bild newspaper.

“Nobody can tell me that this was not coordinated or prepared.

“All connections must be carefully checked,” Maas said. “There is a suspicion that a particular date was chosen with expected crowds. That would then be a new dimension.”

Maas said he wanted to quickly determine whether the New Year’s assaults in Cologne could be linked to similar offences in other cities such as Frankfurt, Stuttgart and Hamburg where women also claimed to be harassed.

Dozens of women were assaulted or robbed during the New Year’s in Cologne, the Police announced last Monday. In the days that followed, many more cases were reported. (Excerpt from

from Reuters)

A general view of the Arab Foreign Ministers’ meeting at the Arab League in Cairo, Egypt, January 10, 2016

A

rab Foreign Ministers condemned attacks on Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran and warned on Sunday that the country would face wider opposition if it continued its “interference” in the internal affairs of Arab states.

Tensions between the Sunni Muslim kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Shi’ite Muslim Iran have escalated since Saudi authorities executed Shi’ite cleric Nimr alNimr on January 2, triggering outrage among Shi’ites

across the Middle East.

In response, Iranian protesters stormed the Saudi Embassy in Tehran and its consulate in Mashhad, prompting Riyadh to sever relations. Tehran then cut all commercial ties with Riyadh, and banned pilgrims from travelling to Mecca. Other Arab countries have downgraded ties or recalled envoys to Iran in solidarity with Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir said, following an emergency Arab

League meeting in Cairo, that cutting commercial and diplomatic ties was a first step, and that his country would discuss potential further actions against Iran with its regional and international allies. He gave no further details.

If Iran continues to support “terrorism, sectarianism and violence”, it would face opposition from all Arab countries, Jubeir told a news conference following the meeting. (Excerpt from Reuters)

France remembers victims India has given spiritualism, not communalism to world – PM Modi of Charlie attacks

A

ceremony has taken place in central Paris to remember those killed in the Charlie Hebdo attacks a year ago.

President Francois Hollande on Sunday laid a wreath in the Place de la Republique, where a commemorative oak tree was unveiled, and a minute’s silence was observed.

In the attacks, jihadist gunmen killed 12 people at the satirical Charlie Hebdo magazine, four hostages at a Jewish supermarket, and a policewoman.

On January 11, 2015, a huge protest against the attacks was held in Paris.

I

ndia has not given communalism to the world but only spirituality, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday, asserting that saints and other learned men have always espoused for ‘rashtra dharma’ (duty to nation).

Modi, while unveiling the 300th book penned by prominent Jain monk Acharya Ratnasundersuriji Maharaj through a video conference, said former President APJ Abdul Kalam believed in India’s legacy of spirituality and had said it can help mankind deal with the major challenges it was facing today.

“The world has not been able to understand us the

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

way it should have. India is a country which has never followed sectarian tendencies. India has never given communalism but spirituality to the world.

“Sometimes, community can be a creator of problems,

but spirituality provides resolution to problems,” he said.

Modi described the monk as a “great social reformer and spiritual leader” who has expressed his views on all concepts and objects of the universe through his various books.

The book, “My India, Nobel India”, in four languages – English, Hindi, Gujarati and Marathi – was released at the Somaiya Grounds in SionChunabhatti area during the “Sahitya Satkar Samaroh” programme on the concluding day of the 10-day-long religious and spiritual conclave. (Excerpt from Indian Express)

German Minister: Cologne attacks possibly coordinated Hong Kong: Thousands rally over missing booksellers

T

he German Justice Minister has told a German newspaper that he assumed the crimes that took place in Cologne during the New Year’s celebrations were “coordinated or prepared”, as Police say the number of sexual assaults and robberies reported have risen significantly.

In a statement released on Sunday, Cologne Police said they were investigating 516 criminal complaints, and about 40 per cent of those allegations

Al Jazeera)

T

housands in Hong Kong have rallied against the disappearance of five booksellers from a shop known for selling works critical of China.

All are suspected of being held in China, and the protesters fear the growing influence of Beijing.

Under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong is supposed to enjoy a high degree of autonomy from China since it took over from Britain.

Hong Kong authorities said they were conducting a “thorough” investigation.

A Government spokesman said they were awaiting a response from the mainland, but stressed the rule of law was the “cornerstone” of Hong Kong society.

Chanting “say no to political kidnapping”, the protesters marched to the offices of Beijing’s representative in Hong Kong.

“For Hong Kong, this is the first time there has

been such a clear violation of Hong Kong’s law, a clear violation of ‘one country, two systems’ principle, that has taken place in such an open manner,” Albert Chan, a politician with the pro-democracy People Power Party, told the BBC. “This is why so many people have come out.”

Another pro-democracy politician, Lee Cheuk-yan, said the disappearances were a “milestone for suppression”. (Excerpt from BBC News)

16 news

monday, january 11, 2016| guyanatimesGY.com

VOX POPULI

What do people say about

I SAY...

Guyanese shared their views on the Guyana People’s Militia (GPM) and the Guyana National Service (GNS) Denisia Liddell – Student, (Linden)

“I was not around back in the days of the Guyana National Service or the People’s Militia, but I have heard some good things about the National Service. Every now and again, you would hear people saying things like ‘they should bring back the National Service’ as a way to have people provide some form of service and have them occupied in some way.

For me, if that happens, it would be something new so it might be interesting if they choose to bring that back.”

Pascaline Guillet – Teacher, (Region Five)

“I have seen what a big army had done to the economy of this country. Why it is that mostly one ethnic group was in the Militia when it was here first? I would suggest that the country use that same money and teach persons how to get into business; teach them business skills and give them a small grant so they can start their own business, or give them money to go into agriculture and buy the produce from them. Is the same money you spending and at the end, they will know what it is to work hard and not to rob people and burn down their house with them inside, rob business people and kill them.”

Rohit Smith – Labourer, Aurora, (Essequibo Coast)

Samantha Persaud – Businesswoman, (New Amsterdam)

“The People’s Militia as they called it trained our youths and if you check back about 20 years, you would see that most of the violent crimes that were committed were done by persons who were in the Militia and the National Service. All they will be doing is training persons to use guns and then allow them to use that training to harm society.

If they want to find jobs for our youths, then they need to build industries so that we can produce and earn foreign exchange; not use up taxpayer’s money to train would-be criminals.”

Oliver Brian – (Corentyne)

“I think it is a good thing, because we have a lot of unemployment, and if they could find jobs for young people, then that is a good thing. It would stop all the robbery and murders going on every day.

I think President [David] Granger is doing the right thing. He said he would find jobs for us and the Opposition should support the Militia…

I would not go and join the Militia, because I want to have a better future.”

“I am totally against the reintroduction of National Service. I would never allow my girl children to enter into such service away from home for employment. If the Government want to create employment, then they should established agro-processing.

Back in my days, many people who went into National Service came out unmarried and pregnant. I won’t want my grandchildren’s and children’s lives being wrecked because of National Service, I say no to it and yes to more youth empowerment programmes within communities.”

Dalon Chapman – Student, (Linden)

“Well ,I think yes ,the Government of Guyana should reintroduce the National Service to Guyana.... to benefit young people and to also take them off the streets... by that way crime rates will, well, be taken away from the society of which we live where civilians will be more safe.

Based on what I keep hearing people who were around in that era saying about these two services, I think it would be a good way of providing something constructive for the youths especially to do.”

Anil Persaud – Student, (Georgetown)

Parmanand Singh – Government Worker, (Essequibo)

“I think if the Government need to create new opportunities for young people, then they should be better youth empowering programmes as opposed to the introduction of National Service, although I am aware it will foster discipline, I am still against it, because young girls will suffer, families need to stick together and not be separated because of earning a job or a skill when these things can happen right at a community centre”.

Bhagwanlall Ramlagan – Self-employed, (Essequibo)

“I think the reintroduction of National Service is total nonsense. In the past, it was poorly managed, people’s young girl children were taken advantage of, it was a total failure and I say no to it.

I think problems will erupt if such is introduced, I am totally against it, let the Granger Administration re-consider their move.”

“I think that we have managed to make it out of one era to the other. Change is essential as we constantly hear on an everyday basis, so we need not be stuck on ideas and principles of the past.

The opportunities afforded to the youth of Guyana are endless and it’s just a matter of sensitising them of these opportunities and letting them explore their potential freely. National Service is a primitive idea which may have worked in the past, but will stifle potential in the present. Youths need not be forced into paths, but rather, afforded opportunities to educate themselves, explore, and embrace their innate potential through liberal, democratic methods and initiatives. If the Militia should be reintroduced, it should be based on the premise of choice. No one should be forced to be incorporated into a system against their will. Should it be reintroduced, persons should be given the opportunity to choose if they would like to be a part of it and should they meet the necessary criteria, they should at least be subtly remunerated for the provisions of their services.

These persons should also be treated with utmost equality and given equal opportunities. They should also be constantly screened to ensure that the safety of the nation is not compromised at any level. Choice is key.”

Mark Moseley – Producer, (Linden)

“The reintroduction of the Guyana People’s Militia and Guyana National Service corrects a short-sighted mistake that was made by the previous Administrations of the PPP. Now, these fine institutions can teach our young people valuable skills and we can be able to defend our nation if necessary.

Both the GPM and the GNS provide skills training for trades, especially GNS and also military training. The greatest benefit of a part-time backup force is that a much larger segment of the population is capable and available to defend the country from aggressors like Venezuela and Suriname, and also provide a means of keeping youth gainfully occupied and off the street where some may get themselves into all kinds of trouble as we have seen happen time and again.

The skills learned in the GPM and GNS are beneficial to civilian employers, who do not have to train these folks from scratch or at all. By hiring someone that has already been trained, a businessperson saves themselves enormous expenditure. Also, by hiring someone with training and military experience in the GPM and GNS, you get someone who is disciplined and accustomed to honour, integrity, and pride in themselves and country. It is a win-win situation for all.

The Guyana People’s Militia and Guyana National Service were military services established by President Forbes Burnham, as supporting services to the Guyana Defence Force. They were part of Guyana’s military, but served different roles and functions.

The Guyana People’s Militia served as a reserve force, where citizens performed training on weekends and also longer stretches during the year. In war, armed conflict, border issues, etc, they could rapidly be deployed and integrated with the Army to facilitate Guyana’s Defence. It was a well trained and ready supplemental force. The United States uses a similar system with full-time active duty forces and reserved backup forces. It works with all branches of the military.

The Guyana National Service was like a young arm of the military. Young folks from high school and older were taught numerous civilian and military skills. This was also on part-time basis. They provided a well-disciplined pool of future members for both the Army, Coast Guard, and militia.”

17

news

monday, january 11, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Baby-selling controversy

Suspected trafficking Tiger Bay residents involved – CCPA Head receive food hampers

...says mother admitted to giving away child

CPA Head Ann Greene

T

he Child Care and Protection Agency (CCPA) probe into the “baby-selling” allegations is exploring all angles to unearth the truth behind the controversy and determine whether trafficking was indeed involved in the three-way squabble for the newborn child.

CCPA Head Ann Greene told Guyana Times that the investigation was ongoing and the officers were making sufficient progress. She stated that the investigation should be completed by Monday and more detailed information would be released in due course.

For now, Greene said officers were trying to discover what exactly transpired, as there were many conflicting reports regarding how the baby ended up in the custody of a woman unknown to her mother.

According to reports, Roberta Browne, the mother of the baby, gave the child to her friend. Some hours later, she telephoned

the woman, requesting that she return the baby. This request was not met. The friend reportedly handed the baby over to another person who is now claiming custody of the child. But, Browne denied claims that she gave away her baby, saying that she just left the infant in the care of her friend for a short while.

The CCPA Head confirmed, however, that the mother admitted to giving up the child after growing frustrated.

“The mother did admit that she gave away the baby to her best friend. The family did not know that she gave away the baby, because there’s an aunt that said if she had known, then she would have taken the baby. She did admit that she was frustrated, saying that she doesn’t want the baby. The grandmother also said that she would have taken the baby had she known her daughter had plans to do that. She has some personal difficul-

ties; we have to look at her capacity, her mental health and so on…,” she related.

Commenting on the situation, Greene firmly stated that children could not simply be stolen or given away.

“There’s a process if a mother feels that she doesn’t want, or she doesn’t have the capacity to care of her child. A procedure that she has to go through that could legalise things and so on, so we can’t have babies being given away,” she said.

Greene said the situation was rather worrying and the Agency would continue to work with the family even after the investigation was completed.

“We have to work with her after an investigation has been concluded, because there’s two more children involved. She has two more children at home, so we would be working with her to help her even to build her capacity to look at even the two other children,” she said.

Meanwhile, Greene said another major part of the investigation was to locate the father of the child.

“We’re trying to find the father as part of the investigation, because there has to be a father. We have to find out what’s the position of the other side of the relatives, as there’s the maternal and a child also has paternal relatives.”

Guyana Times understands that the Police were also investigating the matter.

R

esidents within the community of Tiger Bay, South Cummingsburg expressed their gratitude for the assistance they received through the “Caring for Others (CFO)” programme on Sunday.

During a simple ceremony, hampers comprising food stuff, school items, clothing and personal necessities were donated.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Shabakie Fernandes, Guyana’s representative to the organisation, stated that this venture was the first to be carried out in this area since commencement of the programme. CFO was designed to help restore personal dignity, and provide the basic economic necessi-

Hampers that were distributed in Tiger Bay

ties for disadvantaged individuals, senior and disabled

citizens, unemployed families and minors.

Fire averted at NCN A quick response by the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) saved the buildings within the compound of the State-owned National Communications Network (NCN) from going up in flames.

Guyana Times understands that the fire had started at the back of the Guyana National Cultural Centre (GNCC) and began to spread quickly.

The incident occurred around 15:00h on Saturday.

According to reports, the fire was lit in an attempt to burn a pile of garbage.

Observers noticed the threat and immediately summoned the Fire Service

who responded promptly to extinguish the flames be-

fore any damage could be done.

Inmates undergo rehabilitation exercise at Mazaruni Prison

I

n the prison situated in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), inmates welcomed with open arms the well-regarded programme offered by Guyanese leader, Dr Astell Collins as the first stages of a rehabilitative process that will soon become routine in all the jailhouses across the country.

After hosting a number of leadership development seminars across the country, Dr Collins told Guyana Times that he realised that there was a need for similar programmes to be extended to the prisons.

Dr Collins marvelled at how the inmates, who have been labelled hardened criminals, responded to the principles he disseminated at the seminar.

“Society sees the prisoners as trash and we treat them that way. But if we treat them as human beings and not what they did, you would be amazed at how they would respond. You see most of these prisoners were

never exposed to compassion or persons who care honestly about them. There is a desire within them to change and once they are provided with the right guidance, I believe that they can contribute significantly to society,” Dr Collins related.

In quoting his mentor Dr Myles Munroe, Dr Collins posited, “Leadership is the capacity to influence others through inspiration, motivated by passion, generated by a vision, produced by a conviction and ignited by a purpose.”

He explained that the purpose of the sessions was to take the inmates on a journey of self-discovery to self-mastery where they can identify their talents, abilities, gifts and strengths.

“We want them to understand that freedom is not the ability to do what we want, when we want to do it or with whom we want to do it whenever we want to do it.

Freedom is, rather, responsibility and management,”

Dr Astell Collins interacting with inmates at the Mazaruni Prison

Dr Collins explained, noting these inspirational messages were conveyed to the prisoners.

He said too much negativity was being publicised

about life within the prison, noting that positive news needed to also become available to aid the rehabilitation process.

“We need to celebrate the

other half of the coin too,” he said.

Asked about his passion to help those in prisons, Dr Collins reminded that all humans were flawed so no

human was in the position to cast judgment.

“I’ve embraced the concept of Ubuntu. Ubuntu is a Zulu word which means the spirit of humanity. I am because we are and what affects me will also affect you as what diminish me will also diminish you,” he explained.

Dr Collins intends to visit all the prisons across the country in an effort to foster the foundation needed for a sound rehabilitation process to get started within the prison walls with the aim of helping prisoners uncover their worth and become productive citizens of society.

“So I spoke with Deputy Director of Prisons, Acting Senior Superintendent Gladwin Samuels, who agreed with the initiative and forwarded it to the necessary channels for approval,” Dr Collins told this publication after wrapping up the seminar at the Mazaruni Prison on Friday.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, January 11, 2016

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Don’t let someone’s negativity stop you from going after your professional goals.

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Monday, january 11, 2016

19

Swansea shocked, Chelsea win, Kane saves Spurs

P

remier League Swansea City fell victims to the first major giant-killing of the FA Cup third round on Sunday when they lost 3-2 away to League Two (fourth tier) side Oxford United.

Chelsea, fielding a near fullstrength team, came through their home tie with League One Scunthorpe by two goals to nil and Tottenham Hotspur needed a controversial late penalty by Harry Kane to draw 2-2 at home to Leicester City.

There were more than 50 league positions between the clubs at the Kassam Stadium, where Oxford came from behind to lead 3-1 after Ecuador international Jefferson Montero had put Swansea ahead.

Liam Sercombe equalised from a penalty just before half-time and two goals in 10 minutes soon after the interval from Kemar Roofe put the home side in sight of victory.

Bafetimbi Gomis pulled one back for the Welsh club, who had made 10 changes from their last Premier League game, but Oxford held on.

"I thought the performance was outstanding, it was always going to be a difficult game against a Premier League side," their manager Michael Appleton told BBC Sport.

Oxford, a top-flight team 30 years ago before dropping back into non-League football from 2006-10,

are third in League Two, with the top three in May due to go up.

Roofe, who signed for them from West Bromwich Albion in the close season after a successful loan period, felt the triumph was

ing to have to lift everyone for our next game."

That match is a crucial Premier League fixture against fellow strugglers Sunderland on Wednesday.

Spanish international Diego Costa put them ahead in the 13th minute from a cross by Branislav Ivanovic but the visitors rallied well in the second half and were furious to be denied a penalty

Oxford's Liam Sercombe celebrates scoring their first goal from the penalty spot (Reuters photo)

down to his team's efforts rather than any lack of application by Swansea.

"I don't think they underestimated us, we were just on our game," he said.

Alan Curtis, recently appointed Swansea manager until the end of the season, said his muchchanged team had been "poor" for the first hour of the game.

"It's a huge setback for the club," he told reporters. "We're go-

Sunderland are bottom but one with 15 points and Swansea are two places ahead of them on 19 points.

PENALTY DENIED

Chelsea avoided a similar embarrassment to last season's stunning 4-2 FA Cup defeat at home to Bradford City, although at times they made hard work of their tie against another third-tier side in Scunthorpe.

when Ramires appeared to trip Kevin van Veen.

A few minutes later 19-year-old Londoner Ruben Loftus-Cheek, a half-time replacement for Oscar, scored his first goal for the club from Cesar Azpilicueta's low centre.

Scunthorpe were denied a consolation goal when fullback Jordan Clarke's fierce shot struck the post.

"It was not an easy game," said Guus Hiddink, who is hoping to

repeat his feat of 2009 by winning the FA Cup as Chelsea's interim manager.

The experienced Dutchman has been unbeaten in four games since taking charge again after Jose Mourinho was sacked.

He told reporters that Costa was "doubtful" for Wednesday's game at home to West Bromwich Albion as the Premier League champions seek to improve on their poor defence of the title.

Claudio Ranieri's Leicester were denied a repeat of last season's 2-1 FA Cup win at Tottenham in an exciting tie at White Hart Lane, after the teams, who meet in the Premier League on Wednesday, made 15 changes between them.

Spurs held the lead for only nine minutes after Christian Eriksen scored early on, Polish defender Marcin Wasilewski equalising with a header.

Japan's Shinji Okazaki then scored only two minutes after coming on as a substitute at the interval.

The home side threw on England internationals Harry Kane and Dele Alli and Kane's penalty for handball by Nathan Dyer, his 50th goal for the club, earned them a replay.

"I'm very pleased with our performance," said Ranieri, who declined to complain about the penalty award. (Reuters Sport)

5-goal Napoli go top after Inter lose at home D

omenico Berardi converted a penalty in the fifth minute of injury time on Sunday to give Sassuolo a shock 1-0 win away to Inter Milan who were knocked off the top of the Serie A table by Napoli following their 5-1 win at Frosinone.

Gonzalo Higuain scored twice, taking his tally to 18, for Napoli as the lead changed hands for the 10th time in 19 rounds of games this season.

Napoli, with 41 points, are two clear of Inter and lead at the halfway mark for the first time since the 1989/90 season, the last time they won the title.

Inter dominated their match at soggy San Siro but were repeatedly foiled by the visitors' goalkeeper Andrea Consigli.

Berardi sent Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic the wrong way to complete an extraordinary win for Sassuolo, who were beaten 7-0 in the same fixture last season, as Inter coach Roberto Mancini watched in disbelief.

The penalty was awarded after Inter defender Jeisson Murillo mistimed a header, then team mate Miranda clumsily bundled over Gregoire Defrel as the hosts made a pig's ear of dealing with an innocuous Sassuolo attack.

"Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s football," said Mancini.

"We created lots of chances but Consigli was fantastic and we just couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get the goal."

Inter missed a flurry of early chances and when Adem Ljajic finally managed to get a curling effort on target just before halftime, his effort was brilliantly tipped away by Consigli.

Consigli again denied the Serbian after the break, then did well to parry away a low drive from Geoffrey Kondogbia as he kept sixth-placed Sassuolo in the game.

In an end-to-end game, Inter forward Rodrigo Palacio had a shot cleared off the line while, at the other end, Handanovic made a superb reflex save at close range to stop an acrobatic volley from Antonio Floro Flores.

Consigli again denied Ljajic and turned away a curling effort from substitute Stevan Jovetic before Berardi struck for Sassuolo.

Raul Albiol turned the ball in at the far post before Higuain won and converted a penalty to put Napoli 2-0 ahead at Frosinone after half an hour.

Marek Hamsik and Higuain scored twice in a minute after the break, the Argentine's fourth brace in the last six games, and Manolo Gabbiandini added the fifth goal.

Sassuolo's Domenico Berardi (L) celebrates with his teammate Sime Vrsaljko after scoring a penalty against Inter Milan (Reuters photo)

Unheralded Empoli went seventh, above AC Milan, after winning 1-0 at Torino with a secondhalf goal by Massimo Maccarone.

There were also 1-0 away wins for Chievo, at Roberto Donadoni's Bologna, and Palermo at bottom club Verona, who remained win-

less. Genoa's 2-0 win at Atalanta took them four points clear of the relegation zone. (Reuters Sport)

20 Guptill sets fastest NZ 50 record, Munro breaks it five overs later

guyanatimesGY.com

Monday, january 11, 2016

That “Road to Rio” plan

By Avenash Ramzan

T

Caption: Colin Munro smashed one four and seven sixes in his unbeaten 14-ball 50 (Getty Images)

A

n abject Sri Lanka collapse full of witless batting, a clinical performance by New Zealand's seamers, and a fast start from Martin Guptill, all featured in Sri Lanka's final heavy defeat of the tour. Their embarrassment was enhanced a little here for having come in front of an Auckland crowd of over 17,000, and by Colin Munro, who bludgeoned the second-fastest halfcentury in T20s to close out a match that had never really been in doubt for New Zealand. He was unbeaten on 50 from 14 balls, having hit seven sixes and a four. Sri Lanka's 142 for 8 on a flat track, and on one of the smallest grounds in the world, was gunned down with nine wickets and ten full overs to spare.

Seduced by the short

boundaries, Sri Lanka's batsmen aimed slog after slog at the straight fence, and fell predictably, and in quick succession. New Zealand put zippy balls just short of a length - a clear bowling plan, given the ground's odd dimensions - and the visitors just failed to adapt.

Grant Elliott was the most accurate bowler, and took 4 for 22 from his full quota, but so intent did Sri Lanka's batsmen seem on holing out, almost anyone could have taken those wickets.

A n g e l o Mathews played a familiar lone hand, sporting a familiar look of frustration at his teammates' incompetence. His 81 not out from 49 balls comprised well over half of Sri Lanka's score. He was the only batsman to attempt to build an innings,

SCOREBOARD Sri Lanka innings (20 overs maximum) MD Gunathilaka b Milne 8 TM Dilshan c McClenaghan b Elliott 28 DSNFG Jayasuriya c Williamson b Milne 3 LD Chandimal*† c Taylor b Santner 2 AD Mathews not out 81 TAM Siriwardana c Boult b Santner 0 KDK Vithanag c Milne b Elliott 1 NLTC Perera c Guptill b 6 Elliott I Udana c Williamson b Elliott 0 JDF Vandersay not out 8 Extras (lb 2, w 3) 5 Total (8 wickets; 20 overs; 92 mins) 142 Did not bat: PVD Chameera Fall of wickets: 1-11, 2-33, 3-39, 4-63, 5-66,

6-70, 7-98, 8-103 Bowling : TA Boult 4-0-360, AF Milne 4-0-36-2, MJ 4-0-22McClenaghan 0, MJ Santner 4-0-24-2, GD Elliott 4-0-22-4 New Zealand innings (target: 143 runs from 20 overs) MJ Guptill c †Chandimal b Perera 63 KS Williamson* not out 32 C Munro not out 50 Extras (w 2) 2 Total (1 wicket; 10 overs; 45 mins) 147 Did not bat: CJ Anderson, LRPL Taylor, GD Elliott, L Ronchi†, MJ Santner, AF Milne, MJ McClenaghan, TA Boult Fall of wickets: 1-89 Bowling: I Udana 3-0-340, PVD Chameera 3-0-460, JDF Vandersay 2-0-41-0, NLTC Perera 2-0-26-1

instead of bash one.

It's not often that a batsman hitting 63 from 25 balls in a modest T20 chase will be outshone, but a rapid Guptill was made to look almost pedestrian by Munro. Having arrived at 89 for 1 in the seventh over, Munro blasted his second ball, off Thisara Perera, into the stands beyond wide long on, then savaged the legspin of Vandersay. Kane Williamson gave Munro the strike in the first ball of the eighth over, and he sent the ball hurtling over the deep midwicket boundary three times in four balls. That over cost 27. Having already been at the end of Guptill's brutality, Vandersay had earlier bowled an over that conceded 20. His two overs went for 41. None of Sri Lanka's four bowlers had an economy rate of less than 11.

Munro wrapped up the victory with a four and two more sixes in Dushmantha Chameera's third over. He reached fifty and moved New Zealand to their target with his last six, over deep midwicket.

His 14-ball half-century is only slower than Yuvraj Singh's 12-ball fifty against England, in the 2007 World T20.

Sri Lanka's spectacular nosedive began in the second over. Danushka Gunathilaka had earlier made room to scythe Adam Milne through the offside, but aimed an ungainly heave across the line soon after. The ball passed some distance from the bat and splayed his stumps.

At the other end, Dilshan was playing his own ugly innings, mistiming and top-edging slogs, and missing attempted scoops over the shoulder. But he survived longer than two incoming batsmen, which is to say, until the 10th over. Before Dilshan was out reverse-sweeping, for 28 from 26 balls, Dinesh Chandimal and Shehan Jayasuriya had both been caught attempting expansive strokes for 2 and 3 respectively.

Milinda Siriwardana who has usually been an intelligent reprieve from Sri Lanka's batting madness this tour - could not resist a slog himself as he was out first ball. He was caught just outside the circle at long on. With the score at 66 for 5 in the 11th over, Mathews might have expected a little help for rebuilding from Kithuruwan Vithanage and Thisara.

They were both caught at the straight boundary for single figure scores, off Elliott's bowling.

Mathews had moved his innings into gear with two straight sixes off the spin of Mitchell Santner, but largely respected the quicks until the back end of the innings. Even then, he picked the hittable deliveries intelligently. He launched Trent Boult down the ground in the 15th over, then when Boult return to close out the innings, Mathews made room and slapped him through the offside twice. By far the largest partnership of the innings was Mathews' 39run stand with no. 10 batsman Vandersay . (Cricinfo)

he holidays are over and we’re already 11 days into a brand new year. As the saying goes, “time and tide wait on no man.”

It seems like just the other day former Director of Sport, Neil Kumar had summoned reporters to his office to unveil the much-touted “Road to Rio” plan – a blueprint for Guyana’s participation in the 2016 Olympic Games in Avenash Ramzan neighbouring Brazil.

Believe it or not, that was September 2012, and now the Games are on our doorsteps. In the perfect world, that plan would have been in action with the Games just a few months away. However, in the case of Guyana, that plan has remained just that – a plan.

On the heels of another lacklustre showing at the London 2012 Olympics, the then Government of Guyana, through the Sport Ministry, had rolled out a structured plan that it hoped would result in Guyana medalling at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Dubbed “Road to Rio”, the plan was geared to target the allround development of athletes over the years leading up to the next Olympics.

According to Kumar, detailed discussions were held with executives of the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association, the Athletics Association of Guyana, the Guyana Boxing Association and the Guyana Cycling Federation on the way forward.

Addressing local media operatives, Kumar highlighted that while much had been said about Guyana’s poor performance at the London Olympics, “the Ministry of Sport has no intention of wasting time with idle talk; instead, it will walk the walk”.

With facilities such as the National Aquatic Centre and the Andrew “Sixhead” Lewis Gym in operation and the synthetic track under construction back then, the Director of Sport posited that the infrastructure was now available, and they would work with the various governing bodies to ensure proper training programmes were initiated to keep sportsmen/women active.

A prepared statement, titled “Guyana’s Road to 2016 Olympics”, which was given to reporters, stated that “the meetings agreed that the associations will prepare and submit to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport comprehensive plans and programmes entitled “From Now to Brazil””.

It added, “The principal purpose of this initiative is to direct our attention and endeavours towards the achievement of not merely commendable but spectacular performances at the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil. Dismal performances must now be relegated from our history.”

Since the plan was birthed, a warm-up pool has been added to the National Aquatic Centre, the synthetic track has been completed, a National Racquet Centre was constructed and the “Sixhead” Gym is still in operation.

The question is how many of those associations that were targeted had ever prepared or submitted their respective roadmap to the Government?

A mere two months after the announcement, the Steve Ninvalle-led Guyana Boxing Association presented its plan – a $50 million four-year Strategic Implementation Plan to the Ministry of Sport. To date, it remains the only Association to have heeded the call of Kumar and the Government.

From August 5-21, the world’s attention will be on Brazil when the Games come off, and it’s anyone’s guess who will compete under the colours of the Golden Arrowhead.

Guyana has not won a medal at the Olympics since 1980 when boxer Michael Parris copped bronze at the Moscow Games. In fact, it is the only medal Guyana has won at the prestigious Games.

At London 2012, Guyana’s six-member team failed to impress, with judoka Raul Lall, swimmers Niall Roberts and Britany Van Lange, and athletes Winston George in the 400m and Jeremy Bascom in the 100m all being knocked out in the first round.

Seasoned campaigner and the most experienced member of the Guyana team, Aliann Pompey, made the semi-final round of the Women’s 400m.

Those performances, or lack thereof, prompted the “Road to Rio” plan. Can we expect a better showing in Rio? Only time will tell, but a clue to the answer may lie in the famous words of the American politician Benjamin Franklin: “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” (aramzan@guyanatimesgy.com)

YELLOW PAGES Monday, january 11, 2016

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er, substitute Carrasco, a Belgium international, picked up a loose ball 10 minutes from time and galloped forward before cracking a shot high into the net.

Atletico, who have conceded a mere eight goals, have 44 points from 19 matches, with Barca on 42 from 18 games.

Real Madrid are two points further back in third after they hammered Deportivo La Coruna 5-0 at the Bernabeu on Saturday in Zinedine Zidane's debut as coach.

"We knew it would be a tough game as Celta play the ball around well," Griezmann told Spanish television.

"But we were strong at the back and we know that when we have chances up front we can score at any moment," he added.

"At the back and in attack we are doing things well and we have to keep it going."

Villarreal stayed hard

on the heels of the top three when a Cedric Bakambu double secured a 2-0 win at home to promoted Sporting Gijon earlier on Sunday as Gary Neville was again denied a debut victory with Valencia in Spain's top flight.

Villarreal occupy Spain's fourth Champions League qualification berth, the position Valencia's billionaire owner Peter Lim would at the least have expected to be in at this stage of the campaign.

However, Sunday's 2-0 defeat at Real Sociedad means Neville has presided over three draws and two defeats in five La Liga outings, including a 1-0 reverse at Villarreal, since he took over from Nuno Espirito Santo last month.

Congo forward Bakambu opened the scoring for Villarreal in the 26th minute at the Madrigal when he tapped in Roberto Soldado's pass and doubled the home side's lead six minutes into the second half with a curling effort that went in off a post.

Coached by Marcelino Garcia, Villarreal are through to the last 32 of this season's Europa League and play their first leg at home to Italian side Napoli on Feb. 18.

With 39 points in La Liga, they are eight points clear of Celta, who have lost their last three league games.

Eibar moved up to sixth thanks to a 2-1 victory at home to Espanyol, while Malaga could only manage a 1-1 draw at promoted Las Palmas and are 10th.(Reuters

Sport)

Blatter's lawyer confirms FIFA ban appeal T

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Atletico surge back above Barca to the top of La Liga

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he legal representative of outgoing FIFA president Sepp Blatter has confirmed his client will challenge a lengthy suspension from football.

Sepp Blatter's lawyer has confirmed his client will appeal the eight-year ban from football activity handed down by FIFA's Ethics Committee last month.

Outgoing FIFA president Blatter and UEFA chief Michel Platini received lengthy suspensions following an investigation into a payment of $2million from world football's governing body to the former France international in 2011.

The men were found to be in breach of FIFA Code of Ethics articles relating to "offering and accepting gifts and other benefits; conflicts of interests; loyalty; and general rules of conduct".

Blatter and Platini were provided with the written reasons behind the judgement on Saturday, a necessary step prior to the launch of any appeal.

Sepp Blatter

Platini's legal representatives were quick to announce they will appeal against the judgement and Blatter's lawyer has now confirmed the 79-year-old Swiss will also challenge the ruling.

"We will appeal it, of course," Blatter's US-based attorney Richard Cullen told Agence France-Presse.

An initial appeal must go through the FIFA Appeal Committee prior to any potential involvement of the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

A congress to elect Blatter's replacement is due to take place on February 26. Platini withdrew his candidacy last week. (Digicel Sportsmax)

22

guyanatimesGY.com

Monday, january 11, 2016

Don't be ashamed Jaguars battle – Sarwan to Holder Marooners today WICB/NAGICO Super50

...following series defeat in Australia

By Avenash Ramzan

F

ormer West Indies Captain Ramnaresh Sarwan is encouraging the current skipper, Jason Holder not to be ashamed of his team's performance in the recentlyconcluded series against hosts Australia.

The Windies lost the three-match Test series 2-0, following heavy defeats in the first two matches in Hobart and Melbourne, and a rain-marred draw in the third in Sydney.

The series result means the 24-year-old Holder is yet to taste victory in his tenure as skipper, after he started with a 2-0 loss to hosts Sri Lanka last year. He took over the reins from Denesh Ramdin.

Prior to that, Holder was appointed ODI skipper for the World Cup, replacing Dwayne Bravo.

Speaking during a wideranging interview at the weekend, Sarwan felt it was a bit premature to hand the baton to Holder.

"He's a real good kid; I don't think they should have given it to him. I think they

Ramnaresh Sarwan

Jason Holder

should have probably kept Denesh as Captain and give him [Holder] some more time even if they wanted him as Captain," Sarwan reasoned.

The West Indies Cricket Board's Selection Panel, headed by Clive Lloyd, has come in for heavy criticism for appointing Holder to the post.

Many believe that the Barbados all-rounder is now finding his way in international cricket, and may not have even commanded a place in the side, bringing rise to a similar situation when Darren Sammy was appointed a few years ago.

Despite the negativity, Sarwan is urging the lanky Bajan not to be flustered.

"Continue to be strong.

Australia is a very tough place to play and I think getting beaten in Australia, he shouldn't be too ashamed as a captain; obviously, I don't think it's easy to send such a young team out there and a captain as well to play Australia," Sarwan reckoned.

The 35-year-old Guyanese believes Holder will mature in the role, and he is confident the young skipper will learn from the experience.

NBA Roundup…

Clippers win 8th straight

C

hris Paul had 25 points and seven assists and the Clippers extended their winning streak to eight games with a 97-83 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday in Los Angeles.

Center DeAndre Jordan, making a push for his first career All-Star selection, had 19 rebounds.

It was the 11th straight game in double digits for the franchise’s career rebounding leader. He led the NBA in rebounding the previous two seasons.

J.J. Redick added 17 points for the Clippers.

The winning streak is their fourth of eight or more games in the past four seasons. Los Angeles had an 11-game run in 2013-14, a nine-game stretch last season, and won a franchiserecord 17 straight in 201213.

Jeremy Lin scored 26 points for the Hornets.

Warriors 128, Kings 116 — Golden State captured its sixth consecutive victory, led by a 38-point effort from Stephen Curry and 25 points from Draymond Green.

The Warriors scored 36 points on host Sacramento

Chris Paul

in the third quarter to pull away.

Golden State was 19 of 37 from beyond the arc, hitting 12 in the first half.

Hawks 120, Bulls 105 — Al Horford scored a seasonhigh 33 points and had 10 rebounds, Paul Millsap added 18 points, and host Atlanta ended Chicago’s six-game winning streak.

Wizards 105, Magic 99 — John Wall had 24 points and 10 assists to help visiting Washington stop a three-game skid by defeating Orlando for the 12th straight time Raptors 108, 76ers

95 — Kyle Lowry scored 10 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter and DeMar DeRozan added 19 to lead Toronto over host Philadelphia.

Pistons 103, Nets 89 — Andre Drummond had 23 points and 11 rebounds, and host Detroit pulled away from Brooklyn at the beginning of the fourth quarter for its third straight victory.

Jazz 98, Heat 83 — Gordon Hayward scored 34 points and host Utah held off Miami to break a threegame losing streak. (Boston Globe)

By Akeem Greene

B

uoyed by their 72run victory over Leeward Hurricanes on Saturday, Guyana Jaguars face off against a spirited Combined Campuses and Colleges Marooners today at St Paul's Sports Complex, St Kitts in the WICB/ NAGICO Super50 tournament.

In a clash where they could gain much-needed points to hopefully leapfrog Windward Islands Volcanoes who currently lead the group, Jaguars will be pleased to know that their bowlers seem to be extremely competent in restricting teams.

Spinners Veerasammy Permaul, Gudakesh Motie and Steven Jacobs have constantly been among the wickets, backed up by competent seam bowling from Paul Wintz and Raymon Reifer. The bowling department will certainly be mindful of the 22 extras they gave away in the game against the Hurricanes.

But the batting has not gone according to plan, so no huge partnership has been formed in the two matches thus far.

In fact, if it was not for the experienced Shivnarine Chanderpaul’s 83 in the last match against Leeward Islands Hurricanes, the innings could have been in trouble as the next best score was an attacking 30 by lower batsman Veerasammmy Permaul.

The innings lacked a bit of fluency and one would hope greater rotation of the strike is done.

The game still has life in it especially against a CCC team who can surprise Guyana on the day.

A large portion of the students’ hopes lies with Captain Chadwick Walton who struck a well-composed 83 not out in their previous game against Volcanoes. The Marooners will be hoping to get off to a good start via Anthony Alleyne. Alleyne, a former West Indies Under-19 player, has a commendable average of 46.00 from six List A games with three halfcenturies. Alleyne, who is extremely pleasing to

Chadwick Walton

watch especially when he rocks back to play the cut shot, could be a dangerous player if he gets going.

Their bowling lies in the hands of another former West Indies Under-19 player, leg spinner Akeem Dewar. The tall Dewar, who normally does not extract much turn from the pitch, is more known for his ability to get bounce and his quicker deliveries.

The major threat of the day will be rain: the ground has seen torrential rainfall affecting both matches to be played there thus far. None of the games has seen both sides fully complete their innings without interruption. The Jaguars will be wary of this since they narrowly lost their first game there against

the Volcanoes by one run via the Duckworth-Lewis method. Match time is 09:00h.

The Guyana Jaguars squad reads: Assad Fudadin; Kevon Boodie; Shivnarine Chanderpaul; Leon Johnson (Captain); Vishaul Singh; Christopher Barnwell (Vice Captain); Raymon Reifer; Anthony Bramble; Steven Jacobs; Veerasammy Permaul; Gudakesh Motie; Paul Wintz; Romario Shepherd and Royston Crandon.

The CCC Marooners squad: Chadwick Walton (Captain); Akeem Dewar; Chemar K Holder; Nino Henry; Rovman Powell; Vikash Mohan ; Anthony Alleyne; Aaron Jones; Cassius Burton; Mark Deyal; Jovan Ali ; Christopher Powell and Kristopher Ramsaran.

The other games to be played are Trinidad & Tobago Red Force vs ICC Americas at Shaw Park, Tobago from 09:00h.

Barbados Pride will play Jamaica Scorpions at Queen’s Park Oval in a day/ night fixture beginning at 13:30h. Leeward Islands Hurricanes will be up against Windward Islands Volcanoes at Warner Park, St Kitts from 09:00h.

Shivnarine Chanderpaul will be a key man yet again in the top order

Windies top T20 rankings W

est Indies have claimed the No. 1 spot in the ICC T20 rankings after Sri Lanka, who had largely occupied the top rung since they won the World T20 in 2014, were caned by New Zealand in Auckland on Sunday. West Indies have 118.36 rating points, and are now marginally ahead of both Sri Lanka and Australia who have exactly 118 rating points each.

West Indies have played

eight matches since the end of the World T20 in April 2014 and won four of them, including a world record chase against South Africa in January 2015. They gunned down 232 in 19.2 overs. Coincident to that has been Sri Lanka's fall - they have lost five of their last six matches, the latest a ninewicket drubbing as New Zealand raced to their target of 143 in a mere 10 overs.

Sri Lanka had begun the

two-match series with a seven-point lead. Losing it 0-2 meant they were yet to win a T20 series since becoming World T20 champions (although they beat England in a one-off match in May) and were pushed off their No. 1 slot.

West Indies fare far worse in the other formats.

They are at No. 8 in Tests, after losing the Frank Worrell Trophy 2-0, and No. 9 in ODIs. (Cricinfo)

guyanatimesGY.com

monday, january 11, 2016

23

George wins award “Without a tennis home, it is difficult to have coaches” – GTA President for outstanding performances T in 2015

By Akeem Greene

O

lympian Winston George received an award from his adopted track club in New York, USA recently at an award ceremony.

George, who trains with the Central Park Track Club under the watchful eyes of Coach Joe Ryan, received the award for outstanding performance of 2015.

George lowered Guyana’s national 400 metres record twice in 2015 with the final time being at the World Championships in Beijing, China, which was held in August.

The quarter-miler ran 45.27s in Beijing to lower the record. George had run 45.31s in June of last year to lower the record for the first time.

Speaking with Guyana Times Sport on Sunday, George highlighted that he was a bit shocked to receive the award, but was also very appreciative of the gesture.

“To be honest, I was not expecting it so I was definitely a bit shocked. I have

Winston George

been working my tail off to get where I am, so I’m appreciative of this award and I want to thank the club for giving me this award,” George highlighted.

In addition, with George being the only athlete thus far to qualify for the 2016 Olympics to be held in Rio, the speedster from the Police Sports Club locally also expressed gratitude to Ryan, who has played a big role in his success.

George noted that he would continue to train and work hard in hopes of making Guyana proud.

he Guyana Tennis Association (GTA) has renewed the calls for a National Tennis Centre to be developed in Guyana.

GTA President Grace McCalman, while speaking to media operatives, disclosed that the Tennis Association was in dire need of a National Tennis Centre with the hope of encouraging more coaches to be actively involved in the sport.

“We don’t have a proper National Tennis Centre; without a tennis home, it is difficult to have coaches feel it is a viable sport that they can take up as a career,” the GTA President explained.

However, McCalman was optimistic about the level of discussions that were ongoing which could see better facilities awarded to the sport.

There is currently a National Racquet Centre, which is intended to host all the respective racquet disciplines ( table tennis, lawn tennis, squash and badminton) , and the President is hopeful that these Associations can

GTA President McCalman

Grace

fuse their resources to make the best use of this facility.

She said, “The last half of 2015, we have had the most fruitful discussions; we have something called the National Racquet Centre…strangely enough, we have never been involved in any kind of discussion with the other racquet sports to really come together and optimise the full use of the facility; for the first time, we are now having those discussions.”

She added that “if we call it the National Racquet Centre

– we have squash, badminton, lawn tennis, and table tennis –we can have those four sports manage the facility and make it a sustainable facility, a sustainable business venture, so in the long run we can have a proper national racquet facility which can accommodate international tournaments”.

The National Racquet Centre was commissioned in November 2011 and was touted to be the only one of its kind in the Caribbean Region at that time. (akeemg@guyanatimesgy.com)

The National Racquet Centre is a hive of activity with various athletes engaged in training

Mack, Blackmon headline powerlifting 2015 year P Greaves tests positive for

prohibited substance

Alanzo Greaves

T

op national cyclist Alanzo Greaves has tested positive for a prohibited substance and has been notified by the Regional Anti-Doping Organisation (RADO).

Greaves now faces suspension from the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF).

He was among four cyclists who tested positive following the test that was administered during the rebranded “Tour of Guyana”

five-stage race.

The other three cyclists are from Jamaica, Barbados and Colombia respectively, but their names were not released.

The GCF thanked Dr Karen Pilgrim and the Guyana Olympic Association for conducting the random tests as the Cycling Federation aimed to work closely with the relevant stakeholders to curb doping in cycling.

henomenal performances from Guyana’s most outstanding and first-ever internationally ranked 16-year-old female powerlifter Britney Mack, along with consistent performances from Rudolph Blackmon, were the highlight of Guyana’s powerlifting 2015 year.

Mack dominated all her local and international events culminating with gold medals at the South American, Pan American and Commonwealth Championships, while Blackmon was equally impressive within the Under-23 category by dominating in his meets, both locally and internationally, with gold medals at the South American, Pan American and Commonwealth Championships.

The Federation, in the early half of the year, was the beneficiary of three sets of powerlifting equipment comprising full weights, rack stands and support equipment, along with a competition platform, to further promote the sport locally from the Government of Guyana under the stewardship of the Minister of Sport, Dr Frank Anthony.

The Federation successfully hosted seven categories of championships locally with a total combined entry list of 115 lifters (22 females and 93 males), and participated at the South American and Pan American Championships in Brazil as well as the Commonwealth championships in Canada.

Activities

1.

Novices C h a m p i o n s h i p s

Britney Mack

(Georgetown) This year’s championships saw an entry field of 31 lifters (6 females and 25 males) with champion lifters being Britney Mack with a Wilkes total of 319.41 for the females and Orin Alleyne with a Wilkes total of 435.61 for the males.

2.

Sub Junior / Junior Championships (Georgetown) This year’s championships saw an entry field of eight male lifters. Champion lifter was Rudolph Blackmon with a Wilkes total of 507.55 3. Clash of Champions (Georgetown) This year’s inaugural championships saw 18 lifters participate (14 males and four females) with best lifters being Vijai Rahim with a Wilkes total of 538.94 and Chloe Hunter with a Wilkes total of 381.06 dominating the day.

4.

Intermediate C h a m p i o n s h i p s (Georgetown) This year’s championships saw an entry field of

nine lifters (three females and six males) with champion lifters being Shellon Nicholas with a Wilkes total of 317.33 for the females and Steve Ramnarine with a Wilkes total of 427.53 for the males.

5.

Masters C h a m p i o n s h i p s (Georgetown) This year’s championships saw an entry field of six male lifters. Champion lifter was Winston Stoby with a Wilkes total of 487.56 6.

Sammy Barker Memorial (Linden) U n e q u i p p e d Championships This year’s inaugural championships saw 30 lifters participate (23 males and seven females) with best lifters being Rudolph Blackmon with a Wilkes total of 453.96 and Andrea Smith with a Wilkes total of 378.6 dominating the day.

7. Senior National Open Championships This year’s championships saw an entry field of 20 lifters (two females and 18 males) with champion lifters being Chloe Hunter with a Wilkes total of 474.45 for the females and Hardat Tarson with a Wilkes total of 510.62 for the males.

8. South American Championships, Ribeiro, Preto, Brazil A team of self-sponsored lifters (three males and two females) represented the nation at both segments comprising unequipped and equipped with mixed results.

Britney Mack in her first international meet lifted her way to the gold medal in the sub junior 52kg equipped category and silver medal in the open equipped category followed by Andrea Smith with a bronze medal effort

in the 57kg unequipped open category.

Marino Jeffrey, lifting in the open 93kg unequipped category, captured gold, with Osmond Mack taking bronze in the 74kg segment.

In the open 93kg equipped segment, Jeffrey gained a silver, with Blackmon taking gold in the equipped junior 83kg category and bronze in the equipped open 83kg category.

9.

Pan American Championships, Brazil Britney Mack lifted her way to the gold medal in the sub junior 52kg equipped category and bronze medal in the open equipped category followed by Andrea Smith with a bronze medal effort in the 57kg unequipped open category.

Marino Jeffrey (93kg) took silver in the unequipped segment, along with Osmond Mack (74kg) taking bronze.

Rudolph Blackmon (83kg) captured gold in the junior equipped category.

10.

Commonwealth P o w e r l i f t i n g Championships, Vancouver , Canada Team Guyana achieved a perfect score in the equipped segment. However, with two lifters randomly selected for testing, the Federation is awaiting the results before confirming success.

Powerlifting in 2016 is set to enjoy another bumper year, with the ladies making a challenge for the Caribbean team title against their nemesis Puerto Rico as well as the Men’s team reclaiming their team title. Locally, many exciting changes and activities are planned with the aim of encouraging more unequipped alongside the traditional equipped events.

Monday, January 11, 2016

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

WICB/NAGICO Super50

Jaguars battle Marooners today Pg 22

The Guyana Jaguars will be hoping to be all smiles at the end of today’s game

Windies top T20 rankings

Pg 22

West Indies continue to dominate the T20 arena.

Ramdhani ranked 53rd best junior in badminton – number 1 in Caribbean

G

uyana’s top badminton player Narayan Ramdhani is now ranked 53rd in the first world rankings of 2016 which were released by the Badminton World Federation (BWF).

In addition, Ramdhani is ranked as the number one junior male player in the Caribbean and third in Pan American countries.

Ramdhani will have another crack at the Under-19 category in 2016 with the aim of moving higher up in the rankings especially since some of the top juniors will be graduating to the senior level.

With 173 countries in the world of badminton, the Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) extended congratulations to Ramdhani for the ranking.

The GBA is also hoping to work with all stakeholders in an effort to Narayan Ramdhani plays a shot during one of his many further develop the sport. international tournaments

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, Tel: 231-8064, 231-0544, 225-8697, 225-6695, 225-5634, 225-8696, 225-6707 - SALES AND MARKETING - sales@guyanatimesgy.com PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.