Binder2

P16

Plans revealed for new housing scheme near Lethem Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 3227

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Wednesday, May 31, 2017

PRICE

Detained in clampdown

Chenapau miners

released from Police custody Page 3

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Farmer pinned to death by tractor at Canje P12

Man shot during foiled robbery P7

Pomeroon P7 boat operator arrested with unlicensed gun, ammo

– charged with illegal mining at KNP The detained miners from Chenapau, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), were released from Police custody on Tuesday and are expected to make an appearance at the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court on July 18, to answer to the charge of illegal mining in a protected area (Carl Croker photo)

$89M Liliendaal bridge reopened to vehicular P2 traffic

$550M cocaine bust

Race car driver, ace biker among 5 charged Page 5

Against warnings from expert

Govt still open to building local oil refinery – Trotman Page 2

Taxi driver Page remanded 8 for cocaine, guns, ammo possession

Nazim Gafoor

Countrywide ‘White Night’ campaign P9 being relaunched

2

news

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Against warnings from expert

Govt still open to building local oil refinery – Trotman

By Samuel Sukhnandan

G

overnment has not ruled out building an oil refinery in Guyana, although an overseas oil and gas industry expert has warned that establishing such a facility here would be unprofitable.

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman told Guyana Times in an interview that the Government was still open to receiving suggestions from persons in the Private Sector.

“I think what we are interested in hearing from now, is someone who can put up a good model, to show that perhaps a smaller refinery that will meet our needs could work. So, we have not closed our

minds to the possibility of a refinery…we are open to receiving good and viable suggestions,” he remarked.

Trotman said Government was already in receipt of several proposals; however, he stressed that there was a need for these proposals to be matched with empirical data.

While he did not give a clear indication as to when a decision could be made, Trotman said Government would have to look at the proposals, bearing in mind the timeframe before production begins.

“I can’t say; I mean we are still some way off from production, but certainly some early decision has to be made before 2020,” he told this publication.

The Minister said one

of the key considerations would be the creation of jobs. “There are refineries in other parts of the world which may not be turning an economic profit, but they provide other benefits.”

According to him, most of the decisions would be made by “political imperatives”. However, Trotman said he hoped that the economic importance would not be lost when a final decision was made.

Earlier this month, a feasibility study about Guyana building an oil refinery was shared with the public, at a consultation.

Director of Advisory Services at the United States-based Hartree Partners, Pedro Haas had said that the cost to build a refinery that would produce

100,000 barrels of oil per day was US$5 billion, with a construction period of 50 to 60 months.

This cost not only caters for the off-site location and other facilities, but takes into account the cost for energy, hydrogen supply, water and docking.

However, even with a smaller oil refinery, Haas said, there was a high possibility of Guyana getting a negative rate of return on investment of between US$2 billion and US$3 billion.

Some Guyanese here and abroad believe that Guyana should build its own oil refinery, because even if this is done at zero profit, it has the potential to create between 3000 and 6000 jobs. More than that,

Natural Resources Raphael Trotman

Minister

Guyana could become the exporter of more than 100 by-products, including fertilisers.

Most recently, there have been overtures from the Government of Trinidad

and Tobago for the refining of Guyana’s oil, where a formal proposal could be made in this regard.

Government has said the current-below-optimum operating positions of Suriname and Trinidad bring into stark focus the need for Guyana to be careful in considering whether or not to have a refinery.

Some US$500 million has already been set aside to build an onshore oil and gas facility at Crab Island, at the mouth of the Berbice River. The facility, which will largely support ExxonMobil’s offshore oil exploration and production operations, will include heliports, and supplies, maintenance and transportation hubs.

$89M Liliendaal bridge reopened to vehicular traffic

– after months of rehab work

The Liliendaal bridge, Greater Georgetown, is now reopened to vehicular traffic

A

fter being closed for more than two months to facilitate rehabilitation works, the Liliendaal bridge located on the train line, Greater Georgetown, is now opened to vehicular traffic.

According to the Government, the bridge which was built at the tune of $89 million was recommended to be repaired by the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) Inspection Team and engineers attached to the Public Infrastructure Ministry.

It was recommended that the bridge be closed for traffic based upon findings which showed that one of the panel systems on the northern rail of the bridge demonstrated signs of imminent failure.

Reports are that one of the panels in the system

had been detached, rendering the system structurally unstable. A section of the northern carriageway of the bridge also experienced serviceability failure.

An additional inspection carried out by a team of engineers coincided with the initial assessment.

While works had been slated to commence on March 6, 2017, the construction was pushed up due to its urgency and the bridge was converted to a pre-stressed concrete structure.

The project was undertaken by H Nauth and Sons Civil Engineering Contractors, and lasted for approximately three months.

The closure of the Liliendaal Bridge had created major traffic backups on the East Coast Highway.

news

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, May 31 – 09:00h-10:30h and Thursday, June 1 – 10:00h-11:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, May 31 – 08:15h-09:45h and Thursday, June 1 – 09:25h-10:55h.

Detained in clampdown

Chenapau miners released from Police custody – charged with illegal mining at KNP

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Weather: Thundery and heavy to light rain showers can be expected during the day, with sunny intervals in the late afternoon. Partly cloudy skies can be expected in the evening, with temperatures ranging between 25 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly North-easterly between 4.02 metres and 5.81 metres.

High Tide: 08:43h and 21:26 reaching maximum heights of 2.40 metres and 2.27 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 02:15h and 14:51h reaching minimum heights of 0.90 metre and 0.81 metre respectively.

BY LAKHRAM BHAGIRAT

T

he remaining 18 Chenapau, Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni), residents in Police custody were released on Tuesday and are expected to make an appearance at the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court on July 18, to answer to the charge of illegal mining in a protected area.

The 18 males released are Calixtus Francis, 47; Kenvil Cyril, 18; Donald Andrew, 48; Aladin Sebastian, 29; Garlon Andrew, 32; Clifford Andrew, 30; Leroy Fraser, 29; Collin Francisco, 27; Phillip Andrew, 18; Rudolph Bobb-Semple, 37; Franklin George, 38; Carlton Lewis, 40; Jason Baptiste, 30; Cecil Baptiste, 56; Bryan Mason, 31; Tomson Edwards, 17; Mark Andrew, 26; and Clive Edwards, 20.

The two females; Carrol Williams, 22, and Sabrina Dos Santos, 26, along with two-year-old Naziel Williams

the Kaieteur National Park, a designated no-mining zone that is protected under the laws of Guyana.

They were taken into custody, and were forced to spend Saturday night in the backdam before being brought out to Georgetown on Sunday evening. The raid was ordered by President David Granger.

No clear channel of information

All the men chided the authorities for their lack of information. They noted that during the time in custody at the Police Criminal Investigations Department (CID) at Eve Leary, in Georgetown, they were not afforded any information.

The men said they were forced to sit down for approximately 48 hours without even being afforded a shower or a change of clothes.

Following his release, Cecil Baptiste, told Guyana Times that he, along with four other persons were

saturDAY, May 27, 2017

LOTTERY NUMBERS B

07 13 18 25 26 27

17 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

TUESDAY, MAY 30, 2017

DAILY MILLIONS

12 16 17 19 26 a

LUCKY 3

7

1

6

Afternoon Draw

2

7

3

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

02 05 08 15 18 19 20 DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

The summons the miners received before being released from Police custody

were released late Monday night.

The miners are adamant they were mining on legal claims and not in the Kaieteur National Park (KNP) as stated by the Government.

At about noon last Saturday, officers from the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) rounded up some 21 persons who allegedly were mining in

rounded up and instructed not to move. “I was till down in the Kurupung area in my camp and they told me that they were given a presidential order to get everybody out off the Park. Not everybody was working but we were moving and going into our location where I have my claims and my other camp ground and then we had to leave everything there and we had to come out,” he related.

The distraught man said he is unaware of the state

Some of the miners released on Tuesday, inclusive of the two women and toddler who were released on Monday (Carl Croker photo)

of his equipment since they were forced to leave all of that behind. He said he has been mining since 1978 and this is the first time he has encountered such a situation. Baptiste related that they are yet to be told why they were held and brought to Georgetown.

“The Police only took our names, addresses, age and that’s all they took. We were sitting there (at CID Headquarters) all the time.

One time I saw three GGMC officers came in and (a senior Police rank) told us that we have to wait until the GGMC officials come again,” Baptiste revealed.

Another one of the detained men, Rudolph BobbSemple, related that he along with another miner was on the tail heading back to the village when they were apprehended by soldiers around 09:00h on Saturday morning.

“When the soldiers them catch we, I was 45 minutes away from Kaieteur Landing and the soldier turn we back because they said that they got order from the Government and they round up everybody working and then they ship we out with boats and then they say that we will talk to the GGMC officers,” he said.

He added that when they arrived at Eve Leary, they were again asked for their names and addresses and then they were informed that they were mining illegally in the Kaieteur National Park.

This, however, he denies, noting that his employer, Charlie Layne, owns 13 mining claims in the area.

“The person who took me in there to work with them, they have 13 claims which they pay for from GGMC. Now if the claim is not valid then why GGMC collect the money for the claim…. that is not right. All the other (miners held) had claim and so, and now we get summons for working in Kaieteur National Park and I don’t think that is right,” BobbSemple lamented.

“We were not mining.

We were prospecting when we met up with the soldiers halfway up the trail and they brought us back to the boat landing and we had to sleep the night there, choke up under some old tarpaulin. They had some heavy guns, all corner, any move you make is a big gun just moving around.

The soldiers told me that we have to go back with them and that they are not allowing anybody to leave,” another miner Calixtus Francis complained. turn to page 5

4

guyanatimesgy.com

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017

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

Why closure?

I

t is quite unfortunate that in spite of the mounting calls for the coalition Government to reconsider its decision to downscale the sugar industry via closure of sugar estates, the Administration seems unmoved and is bent on moving in a direction that will see thousands of workers and their families being severely affected.

On May 8, Agriculture Minister Noel Holder presented Government’s ‘white paper’ on the future of the sugar industry to the National Assembly. He had announced that two sugar estates would be closed and the annual production of sugar would be reduced, among a number of other measures, as part of a new policy on the sugar industry.

Cognisant of the huge impact these closures would have on their lives, scores of sugar workers have taken to the streets over the past few weeks to highlight their concerns on the matter, with the hope that the Government would stop to listen. However, so far, the powers that be have basically turned a deaf ear and are operating as if they are unconcerned. For example, the Wales workers’ contention is that they cannot be compelled to travel to the Uitvlugt Estate on the West Coast of Demerara – some 22 miles from Wales – hence they prefer a severance package. But the Administration seems to be sending a message that they (workers) do not have any other option.

The latest organisation to add its voice against the closure of the estates was the Private Sector Commission (PSC).

The PSC, which represents several Private Sector bodies in Guyana, has highlighted several valid reasons why the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) should be allowed to continue current operations and has even offered to work with the Administration to explore all possible options to avert closure of the estates.

Certainly, the estates are a major source of sustenance and their closure will be felt deeply and far and wide. Workers and their families are rightly fearful that their communities would be destroyed, families broken up and there will be increased incidence of crime and other social problems. It should be mentioned that in December 2016, sugar operations ceased at the Wales Estate, leaving over 1000 workers jobless. Even though it might be too soon to measure the impact of the closure, analysts have predicted it would be severe. One can only imagine what will happen to workers and their families; and communities in general, if the Government moves ahead with other planned closures. It should be noted that the Government-initiated Commission of Inquiry (CoI) did not recommend closure of any estate, but, on the contrary, recommended divestment into private hands.

It must be mentioned too that in spite of the many calls for the Administration to develop a plan of action to have the necessary impact assessments completed and to engage industry stakeholders, nothing concrete was done in this regard. We had stated on numerous occasions before, that no informed decision can be made on the sugar industry without proper and detailed impact assessments being carried out.

Further, because of its level of importance, we suggest that the issue be brought for discussion and debate at the national level with the involvement of all stakeholders. After all, this is people’s livelihoods that would be affected and they and/or their representatives deserve to be fully engaged on what matters to them. The Government has not presented any justifiable reasons to convince the populace that closure is the most viable option.

No one can deny the huge contribution sugar has made to the economy. It could be recalled that years ago, the earnings from the sugar industry helped to prop up other sectors when they were performing badly. Of note too is that the industry remains the largest employer other than Government and is the main foreign currency earner. It is, therefore, necessary that all stakeholders – the workers’ union, parliamentary Opposition, Private Sector bodies and other civil society organisations – continue to raise their voices against the closure of the estates.

Citizens, especially sugar workers, must hold the Government accountable, as it had promised a good life for all Guyanese during the 2015 General and Regional Elections campaign. Closing sugar estates and placing workers on the breadline are certainly not a good example of wanting to create that promised ‘good life’.

Beware: Kevin Richardson, popularly known as the lion whisperer, interacts with one of his lions while out for a walk in the Dinokeng Game Reserve, near Pretoria, South Africa (Telegraph)

Is this public mischief?

Dear Editor, The nation would recall that on May 9, 2017, a Kaieteur News headline stated, “Over 200 persons blacklisted from leaving Guyana – SOCU.” This information caused great concern, restlessness among our people and was widely believed.

The article prompted my immediate action. As a citizen and a representative of the people, I wrote to the Commissioner of Police/Chief Immigration Officer to determine the veracity of the article and to make available to the public the true information of this Administration’s position and action on blacklisting. Significantly, after approximately two weeks and no reply from the Commissioner of Police/Chief Immigration Office,r I wrote to Justice

Charles Ramson Snr (Rt’d), Commissioner of Information requesting the names of the 200 persons blacklisted by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU).

The Commissioner of Police via the Public Relations Officer of the Guyana Police Force subsequently issued a press release some three weeks after the fact. While we welcome the public statement from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) that debunked the misinformation that emanated from Kaieteur News stating that this is nothing but a fabrication, my question is why this press release was not issued sooner, since the publication (Kaieteur News) cited SOCU as their source. The GPF press release suggested that SOCU have not blacklisted some 200 persons from

leaving Guyana.

Therefore, the credibility of Kaieteur News is on the line. Is this public mischief?

Was this designed to achieve a political agenda or is this the modus operandi of Kaieteur News to publish ‘fake news’?

Kaieteur News is now pressed to clarify with the public their source of information or issue a public apology to the nation for providing misinformation and creating public panic. We expect the Police Commissioner, a responsible constitutional office to be forthright with the people of Guyana. This switch and bait strategy that was employed and has proven to be ineffective; it has now been exposed and the nation can see the true nature of this particular media house as it relates to its sensational headlines and ac-

companying stories.

However, the Commissioner of Police has assured that the information requested by me has been dispatched to Justice Charles Ramson Snr (Rt’d), Commissioner of Information.

I await Justice Ramson’s formal reply.

More significantly, we are relieved that the constitutional rights and freedoms of citizens are not being trampled upon by this reported alleged illegal action by SOCU. We will continue to be on watch however as it relates to this matter, to ensure the rights of our people as enshrined in the Constitution of Guyana are protected.

Regards, Bishop Juan Edghill PPP/C MP

Include people sovereignty issue on ‘same sex ballot’

Dear Editor, Your newspaper reported that the Government has informed the international community of its plans to put the issue of “decriminalising buggery” (to appease the gay community) to a referendum. This is a laudatory move giving the population a voice in law making. So why doesn’t the Government want to give the voters a voice in amending the Constitution or in drafting a new constitution?

Why the duplicity?

How come the Government can now afford the cost of such a referendum?

This same Government said last year

and again in February that it cannot afford the cost of a referendum on the judgments of the Chief Justice and the Appeal Court on the “People Sovereignty” case.

Thus, it opted to appeal the rulings.

In both rulings, the court stated the people are sovereign and any change in the Constitution must be approved by referendums and not by their representatives in Parliament. The people are supreme over the Parliament. This is not an unreasonable judicial ruling giving power to the people as superseding that of their elected representatives.

The PNC-AFC

Government opted to appeal the CJ ruling, which the Appeal Court stayed in February. Now the Government goes to the CCJ, expending tens of millions of dollars. The costs associated with both appeals are probably much more than the cost of a referendum. If the Government truly feels the Parliament, as opposed to the people, is sovereign, put it to a vote and let the people decide the issue. Incidentally, this same coalition now in government, during the 2015 campaign, said it would amend the Constitution and hold a referendum. It has now backtracked having tasted

the sweetness of power – to hell with the people, they say.

The Government told the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) it would hold a referendum on same-gender sex relations. Since costs for a referendum are no longer an issue for the Government, include the judgment of whether the people are sovereign on the same referendum. If the people can vote on same-sex relations, why can’t they also vote on term limits and other related constitutional issues?

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

5

News $550M cocaine bust

Race car driver, ace biker among 5 charged T

he Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) on Tuesday instituted charges against five persons in connection with the recent discovery of $550 million worth of cocaine in dressed lumber at Zeelugt, East Bank

ficking in narcotics.

CANU, in a release, stated that the facts of the matter will be presented when the men make their appearance at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court today and during the trial.

On May 12, members of

Some 187 pounds of cocaine, carrying a street value of $550 million, was found concealed in lumber being prepared for shipment to the USA

Essequibo.

Those charged include owner of the sawmill, Narine Lall, who is still out of the jurisdiction. The others are ace biker Stephen Vieira; race car driver Nazim Gafoor and his father, Tazim Gafoor; and Sherwayne DeAbreu. The men were charged for traf-

CANU swooped down on a lumber yard at Lot 227 Zeelugt, where they conducted a search on a truck that was laden with several pallets of 1×6 dressed lumber that was being prepared for export to the United States.

Some 85 kilos (187 pounds) of cocaine, with a

Stephen Vieira

Tazim Gafoor

Narine Lall

Nazim Gafoor

street value of $550 million, was found concealed in lumber being prepared for shipment to the USA. During the search, several boards were reportedly drilled randomly, and a whitish substance suspected to be cocaine was detected. The truck was escorted to CANU headquarters, where the lumber was further examined, and it was discovered that each of the compromised boards had a dugout cavity that held vacuum-sealed plastic packets containing cocaine paste.

Four workers at the lumber yard were taken into Police custody, but were released on Monday last after it was established that they were only contracted to transport the lumber.

However, further investigations by the CANU ranks led to the arrest of Nazim Gafoor and Haleem Mohamed. Gafoor’s father as well as Vieira were then listed by CANU as persons of interest.

Vieira had been listed on the shipping documents as the representative of Lall,

the shipper of the consignment of lumber. With the help of law enforcement officers, Tazim Gafoor was arrested and handed over to CANU. The Gafoors and Mohamed were subsequently released. A few days later, Vieira was arrested immediately after disembarking a Fly Jamaica flight at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.

He was reportedly in Jamaica preparing for the Caribbean Motor Racing Championships, but in light

of the allegations brought against him, the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club suspended his licence thus blocking his participation.

After spending three days in custody, he was released on his own recognisance and a warrant that was issued for his arrest was revoked following a court hearing.

Meanwhile, CANU stated that it would continue to tighten its grip on narcotic distributors throughout the country.

Chenapau miners released...

Government’s response

Section Four of the Kaieteur National Park Act states, “It shall not be lawful for any person to enter into, travel or encamp within the Park or to build any structure therein, or to hunt, chase, catch, shoot at, kill or otherwise disturb any animal or cut, pluck or gather any of the flora or interfere with or disturb the soil by mining or other operations within the Park or to remove anything whatsoever from the Park except in accordance with regulations made under this Act. (2) Any person acting in contravention of any of the provisions of subsection (1) shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine of ninety-seven thousand five hundred dollars, and anything taken by such person from the Park shall be forfeited.”

Further, according to the regulations made under the Mining Act 2005, Part XXVII Section 251 (1) (a), “No person shall conduct mining and quarrying activities in the following areas- (b) In specified nature reserves and parks

where resource extraction is prohibited; (c) In buffer areas without express approval of the Commission and the notification of parties likely to be affected by the activity.”

Additionally, Section 122 of the Protected Areas Act 2011 states that “Any person, except persons under the Amerindian Act, who mines, quarries, drills or removes any minerals, stone, gravel, earth, sand, or other substances or prospects for such substance in a national protected area commits an offence under paragraph (a) of the Fourth Schedule.”

The Fourth Schedule (a) states “A fine of not less than ten thousand dollars nor more than fifty thousand dollars and (f) a fine of not less than five hundred thousand dollars nor more than two million dollars and one hundred thousand dollars per day for continuance of activity with imprisonment for five years for repeating activity after the second instance.”

Government warning

The Government in a

statement said the operation stemmed from several sightings of illegal mining in the KNP. They noted that the miners were warned and ordered to cease all operations.

However, the detained miners are contesting that they were never warned and that they were away from the boundaries of the KNP. They also used to opportunity to call on the Protected Areas Commission (PAC) to mark the boundaries of the Park to prevent any further misunderstanding.

The Government, in an effort to verify its claims released aerial pictures to prove illegal mining in the KNP but the miners are saying that the pictures do not represent the area they were found in.

“The treatment they have received has been every extreme… I would like

from page 3

to strongly believe that these guys are paying for something else; they’re paying for others, because the photographs in the media are not where they were, these guys were able to identify those photographs and they were far from the areas,” Chairperson of the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA), Laura George, said.

“Ms (Denise) Fraser said that the PAC (Chairman) has been in contact with the Ministry of Natural Resources as well as the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs to ensure that the detainees have access to food and are taken care of while in custody. She noted that once released, the PAC will work with the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs to provide accommodation, where necessary,” the Government’s

statement said.

That statement did not go down well with George who became angry and called out the PAC for their misleading comment. She noted that they are yet to be contacted by the PAC and while in custody the detainees were afforded only one meal and that was provided

by relatives and friends.

The arrests sparked widespread protest in Chenapau Village and the Toshao, Edward McGarrell, along with other Councilors travelled to Georgetown on Tuesday hoping to meet with the President and Minister Trotman today.

6

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017

Page T

ea or coffee is often the favoured brew for those who are tired and in need of a caffeine boost. But is this really the best way to make ourselves more alert? Michael Mosley tested caffeine against some unlikely alternatives – sage, fudge, chewing gum and electric shocks.

How effective is caffeine for improving alertness? I drink lots of tea and coffee, so I assumed the answer is “very”. But it is always worthwhile having your assumptions challenged.

So the Trust Me team asked Professor Peter Rogers of Bristol University to put caffeine to the test.

He recruited a group of 20 people, 10 of whom never normally touch caffeine.

The other 10, regular caffeine imbibers, were asked to turn up for testing having abstained for at least 12 hours.

Both groups were measured for mental agility, concentration and dexterity. Then they got a drink with a good jolt of caffeine in it. I found the results surprising, not to mention disappointing.

“Overall, regular caffeine consumers who’d been without caffeine overnight, were slower on the reaction time task, were sleepier and were less mentally alert than non-users,” Professor Rogers said.

They did improve after they got a caffeine drink, but only up to the level the

guyanatimesgy.com

Foundation

non-users had achieved without caffeine.

When the non-users were given caffeine to drink their reaction times increased but they also became more jittery and anxious.

Professor Rogers says that, contrary to what most people believe, drinking lots of coffee on a regular basis won’t enhance your mental performance. Part of the problem with caffeine is we quickly develop dependency.

So if you want to g i v e your

brain a boost, what else is out

there?

Next we asked Dr Andy Johnson, of Bournemouth University, to test the impact on afternoon drowsiness of eating sugar, sage (the herb) and chewing gum.

He lined up 24 volunteers and in the morning did some tests to measure alertness. Then, in the afternoon, our volunteers

were randomly allocated to either chew gum, eat fudge, swallow a pill containing sage or a placebo.

One hour later they did some really boring tests.

They repeated this process three more times over the course of the week, each time trying something different.

As expected, swallowing a placebo pill made little difference. The volunteers still felt drowsier in the afternoon. Eating fudge, if anything, made

them feel slightly worse.

Chewing gum, surprisingly, improved mood, possibly because chewing seems to increases blood

flow to brain. Going for a brisk walk would probably be just as effective.

In fact, the only thing in our test that really did seem to improve our volunteers’ performance was the sage pills. This was not as unlikely as it might sound.

There was a recent systematic review of clinical trials “assessing pharmacological properties of Salvia species

on memory, cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease”.

The review looked at eight studies which have tested the effects of sage on things like memory. Six of these trials involved normal subjects and two were done on people with Alzheimer’s.

The researchers concluded that extracts of sage can enhance cognitive performance and it is safe, but they also caution that because so many different herbal preparations were used (extracts, essential oils, raw sage) better-designed trials are needed to establish which preparation is best.

The reason sage may have an effect is because it contains a cholinesterase inhibitor, a chemical which prevents the breakdown of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. Low levels of acetylcholine in the brain have been linked to memory problems. It is obviously only early stages of research into this herb, but there are clearly some interesting avenues for further research.

The final thing I wanted to test was electric shocks.

Is it safe to shock your brain? For some years scientists have been using tDCS (transcranial direct current stimulation, a small electrical charge to the skull) to try to improve a whole range of things, from learning to reaction times.

Dr Charlotte Stagg of Oxford University, has been

using it to help people recover strength in their hands after a stroke. Charlotte has found that, compared with a sham treatment, tDCS seems to speed up recovery, probably because of the effect that tiny electric currents have on neuronal connections inside the brain.

To see what effect it would have on me, Dr Stagg carefully positioned some electrodes on my skull and turned on the machine.

There was a slight itchiness and it did feel as if my brain had been given a jolt, but had it actually made any difference?

The short answer is yes.

In a test which involved pressing a button when I saw a light go on, my reac-

tion times improved from an average of 650 milliseconds before the machine was turned on, to 550 milliseconds with it on.

These findings are in line with results from other subjects. tDCS is currently being tested, not just as a way of helping people recover from stroke, but also as a potential treatment for depression. Charlotte is concerned, however, that people don’t turn to homemade devices or machines you can buy on the Internet.

“We do our studies in a very measured way,” she told me “but we just don’t know what the long term consequences of prolonged, uncontrolled use are likely to be.” (BBC News)

BY ALICE PARK

translates into higher IQ or better school grades isn’t clear yet. Chaddock-Heyman says the study did not track the students’ cognitive abilities, though previous, smaller studies have linked white matter to better math scores, for example. “It’s possible that white matter differences as a function of fitness are driving the cognitive differences we see in the brain,” she says. “But that’s speculation at this point.”

What the results do show, however, is that physical activity may be an important part of keeping children’s brains active and open to learning. Physical education class and recess may be just as important to doing well in school as time spent in a classroom. “We are hoping our work encourages more support of physically active lifestyles,” says Chaddock-Heyman.

She and her colleagues are continuing their work with a five year trial in which children are randomly assigned to an aerobic fitness program or not, so their white matter changes and their academic performance can be tracked.

“More schools are contributing to our more sedentary lifestyle by eliminating or reducing physical activity during the school day,” says Chaddock-Heyman, “and we know that aerobic fitness is related to the size of brain structures as well as their function.” (Time.com)

T

here’s plenty of evidence that suggests that children who are more physically active do better in school. But what’s contributing to the boost in brain power?

In a study, published in the journal Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, researchers led

by Laura Chaddock-Heyman, a research associate in psychology at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, report that children who are more fit have more white matter in their brains than those who aren’t as fit. The areas of the brain where more white matter was observed are important for attention and memory, and are critical for linking different parts of the brain together.

The study is the first to find a connection between exercise and white matter in children.

Previous studies focused on specific structures of the brain, such as the hippocampus, which is involved in memory, and how exercise affected their size and volume. In the current study, however, ChaddockHeyman and her colleagues show that the improved fitness that comes with exercise may lead to other beneficial changes in the brain as well, such as improving the way signals are sent around the brain via the white matter.

But whether the bulkier white matter actually

7 Man shot during Wanted man nabbed, brother arrested for alleged bribery foiled robbery A T news

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

hirty-one-year-old Terrence Ramlochan, of Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, was on Monday night shot to his left side, following a robbery attempt in front of his home.

The contractor was admitted to a private hospital and his condition was listed as stable.

According to reports reaching Guyana Times, the foiled robbery occurred after 21:00h, as Ramlochan arrived home from work and was opening his front gate.

The bandit approached and pounced on the man with a hand gun, demanding that he hand over cash and a mobile phone.

However, as Ramlochan reportedly refused to hand over his valuables and attempted to disarm his attacker, a brief scuffle ensued and the contractor was shot.

The perpetrator immediately fled the scene.

Neighbours told this

publication that they did not hear the gunshot as they were caught up in the festivities of a party.

While the search for the bandit continues, family members of the injured man Tuesday afternoon met with Police investigators at the Sparendaam Police Station.

They recalled details of what transpired in the time surrounding the shooting. A male relative of the injured man told this newspaper that he was asleep when the shooting happened.

Investigations into the matter are continuing.

Pomeroon boat operator arrested with unlicensed gun, ammo

A

The gun and ammunition retrieved

51-year-old man was on Monday arrested

by Police ranks in F Division (Interior regions) after being found in posses-

sion of a small calibre firearm with one live round.

Detained is Leroy Benjamin, a boat operator who is a resident of Grant, Pomeroon in

the Essequibo River.

According to reports reaching Guyana Times, ranks attached to the Issano Police Station were at the time on river patrol at Barakat Landing, Puruni River when they noticed Benjamin acting in a suspicious manner. As such, a search was conducted on his person, after which an unlicensed 0.32 semi-automatic pistol and one magazine containing a matching round of ammunition were retrieved from his possession.

As a result, the suspect was taken into Police custody and is currently being processed for court.

Benjamin is set to make his first appearance today.

This report came just days after a couple in Georgetown was arrested for the possession of two firearms and several live rounds of ammunition.

wanted Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara farmer was on Monday taken into Police custody after he dodged Police Officers for several weeks. Arrested is Bishomit Rajkumar of Champagne, Mahaicony, who was convicted for his involvement in an unlawful wounding incident.

Following his failure to appear in court, Rajkumar was on May 12 sentenced in absentia to two years’ imprisonment. The man had since been on the run, but was cornered at his Mahaicony home on Monday, after ranks of the Police Force were tipped off.

Based on reports received, Police acting on the information went to Mahaicony, where the wanted man was detained and taken into custody.

However, moments after

his apprehension, his brother approached the Police ranks and offered them $150,000 to free his brother. As a result, the Police in turn arrested the 25-yearold man and charged him for bribery. The money has been lodged as evidence.

Despite his many efforts to resist confinement, Rajkumar will be escorted to the Camp Street Prison where he will commence his two-year sentence.

Moreover, his brother is being processed for court and is set to be arraigned.

8 news

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

IN THE COURTS

Taxi driver remanded for cocaine, Waiting to guns, ammo possession exhale…

…on Local Government Commission

T

In this composite photo, the .357 Taurus Magnum revolver and six live rounds of matching ammunition; two 9mm pistols and 36 live rounds of .45 ammunition; and 11.4kg of cocaine confiscated from the Campbellville house

A

taxi driver of Duncan Street, Campbellville, Georgetown who was on Independence Day busted with three guns, matching ammunition and a quantity of cocaine when Police descended on his home following a report of domestic violence, was on Tuesday morning remanded to prison by City Magistrate Annette Singh.

Trevor Rodriguez, 32, was charged with having in his possession 11.363 kilos of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking; one 9mm pistol, a Glock 9mm pistol and a .357 Taurus Magnum revolver along with matching rounds in his possession without being the holder of a firearm

licence.

On the day in question, Rodriguez had threatened to shoot his wife, Amanda Rodriquez, who in fear reported the incident to a co-worker who then quickly communicated the report to another co-worker who readily came to the rescue of the woman.

Prosecutor Simmons related that the co-worker took away the gun from the perpetrator and contacted Police officials, who swooped down on the couple’s premises. The woman reportedly handed the pistol over to ranks who conducted a search on the said premises, leading to the discovery of the two other guns and cocaine concealed in two cylinders with false

Trevor Rodriguez

bottoms.

Based on reports reaching this publication, the accused is in the habit of abusing his spouse and despite a few moments of hesitation when asked if she wished to proceed with the charges laid against

her husband, the woman replied in the affirmative.

Rodriguez also faced other charges; making use of threatening language and behaviour towards his wife. He is expected to return to court on June 13.

Minibus driver gets 3 years for death of conductor – in Herstelling accident

K

evin Farrel was on Tuesday sentenced to three years in prison after he was found guilty by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for causing the death of Leonard Henry. Farrell is the driver of a minibus which crashed into a lamp post on the Herstelling Public Road, East Bank Demerara, leaving one person dead and several others injured in October last year.

The accused was initially charged two days after the injured minibus conductor succumbed at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC).

He was granted bail in the sum of $1.5 million by Magistrate Judy Latchman, after he pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on October 11, 2016, at the Herstelling Public Road, he drove minibus bearing registration plates BVV 901 in a manner dangerous

Kevin Farrel

to the public, thereby causing the death of Leonard Henry.

According to reports, on the day in question, at around 10:00h, the driv-

er of the Route 42 minibus lost control of the vehicle, causing it to crash into a utility pole before toppling on its left side. The accident occurred a short distance away from the Providence Police Station.

A passenger who was in the bus had spoken to this newspaper, relating that the bus was heading to Georgetown and as it was navigating the ‘S’ turn at Herstelling, it encountered problems. Additional reports indicate that it was raining heavily when the minibus started to sway, subsequently crashing into the pole and toppling thereafter. The conductor’s head was reportedly pinned under the vehicle.

The injured man was rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre and transferred to the GPHC where he succumbed to his injuries two days later.

Post mortem reports reveal that the injured man died

from brain haemorrhaging.

Magistrate McLennan in her summing up declared that the Prosecution had established its case beyond a reasonable doubt, concluding that it was reckless of the driver to embark on a journey with smooth tyres in such weather. She noted that while the court understands his story that he lost control of the vehicle, the incident occurred largely owing to the condition of the tyres which had no grip on the road. The Magistrate deemed the usage of the minibus in such a condition to be unsafe and dangerous to the public, thereby pronouncing him guilty.

Farrel, who cut a lone figure in court in the absence of his attorney, wept bitterly as the Magistrate handed down her ruling, apologising for his actions.

“I am sorry…,” he sniffled.

(Paula Gomes)

he PNC-led APNU/AFC Government scraped the bottom of the barrel to come up with “125 accomplishments” during their first two years in office. Probably the same barrel they scraped for their 69 National Awardees! They should’ve at least gone back to their Manifesto and taken a gander at the 1254 promises that are still waiting to be fulfilled!

One of them was the formation of a Local Government Commission (LGC). Ever since the PNC had bludgeoned the PPP in the streets in the aftermath of the 1997 election, reform of the entire Local Government system was demanded and elicited. The PNC – and later the AFC – complained that the PPP at the Central level was emasculating local government to serve their own (nefarious) purposes. A LGC would remove and assume oversight of local government bodies from the Minister of Local Government (now Minister of Communities).

The PNC and PPP formed a committee to make recommendations since 2001. Finally, in 2013, the Bill was signed. But not before the PNC/APNU and the AFC strenuously demanded the PPP “do the right thing”. The AFC even used the PPP’s signing of the Bill as a prerequisite for them going along with the Money Laundering Bill in 2014. That’s how important they (virtuously) insisted, giving autonomy to folks at the local level was to the future of democracy.

But as soon as the Local Government Elections were held in 2015 and the PPP won most of the NDC’s and RDC’s, the hemming and hawing by the PNC/AFC Government began. At first, they bought some time by EXPLAINING the virtues of the LGC!! In March 2016, APNU announced: “The Commission, once established, will take over most of the current oversight role exercised by the Ministry of Communities. The Ministry, therefore, will no longer have the ability to degrade the capacity of local government organs which will now be able to exercise executive authority in keeping with the autonomy guaranteed by the constitution.”

Two months later, Minister of Communities Bulkan announced the LCD’s launch was “imminent” and could be “as soon as next month” – June 2016. By then the PPP had submitted their three candidates and the Trade Unions their one. All that remained was for Prezzie to submit his three, all on his own – without any list from the Opposition Leader!!... and Bulkan one, on advise of Local Government Leaders. Bulkan said they were “vetting” their candidates.

One year later, Bulkan says they’re still not ready to name their candidates. Presumably they’re still “vetting” them.

Now that Dr Surujbally’s free to practice his profession as a Vet, maybe they should call him in??

…on Venezuela

When it comes to getting rid of Maduro, the successor to Hugo Chávez who was more than a pain in the posterior to the US – the democrats and Republicans are as one. Starting with Clinton (D), followed by Bush (“sulphurous” smell!!) and Obama they all tried to oust Chávez. Obama didn’t skip a beat with Maduro and now that Trump’s in office, while he may be an outlier on many issues – Venezuela and Maduro isn’t one of them. Maduro must go!!

But seem not all of the institutions that keep America ticking. It was just announced that Goldman Sachs – just bought US$2.8 billion worth of Stateowned Venezuelan PDVSA’s bonds. For a country that’s reeling from an imploding economy and a Government that’s facing a resurgent Opposition – whether or not backed by the US – that infusion of cash is like manna from heaven!

But then Goldman had to only pay .31 cents on the dollar for the bonds. Profits always trumps patriotism, no?

…to travel

Nandlall claimed SOCU “blacklisted” 200 persons from leaving the jurisdiction. After two weeks, the Police replied indignantly it wasn’t so. It was 139 over the last 10 years!!

They missed the point. If even ONE person’s blacklisted without being charged, it’s illegal!!

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

news

9

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Countrywide ‘White Night’ campaign being relaunched – as road fatalities continue

I

n the wake of a number of horrific accidents which have claimed the lives of road users, the National Road Safety Council will be re-launching its ‘White Night’ campaign at several locations.

On Monday, the Council released a list of locations where the road blocks would be implemented. The campaign will run from June to December in all the Police divisions.

In Division A (Georgetown-East Bank Demerara), the road block will be located at Vlissingen Road and Main Street. In B Division (Berbice), the campaign will set-up shop at Bushlot, West Coast Berbice, Albion, Rose Hall and Springlands.

In C Division (East Coast Demerara), the road blocks will be located at Sparendaam and Ogle, while in D Division (West Bank Demerara-East Bank Essequibo), the locations are Vreed En Hoop and Leonora.

In E Division (LindenKwakwani), the location for the road block is McKenzie, while in F Division (Interior location) the location is 1st and 2nd Avenue, Bartica. In G Division (Essequibo CoastIslands), road blocks will be

placed in Anna Regina.

The campaigns will run simultaneously on the following dates: June 2 and 30; July 28; August 12; September 1 and 30; October 27; November 4, 17 and 24; and on December 15.

In a recent interview, coordinator of the Road Safety Council, Ramona Doorgen had promised that the campaign would be advertised beforehand. She stated that contact numbers, the locations of the campaign’s principal points and road blocks, would be released by Monday, May 29.

According to Doorgen, one aim of the campaign is to reduce the number of persons drinking and driving on the roadway. It will also serve to reinforce road safety on motorists.

Meanwhile, however, it was emphasised by the coordinator that passengers have their lives in their hands and must therefore contribute to preventing the reckless use of the road.

Doorgen stressed that passengers within reckless minibuses have a responsibility to request that drivers slow down. Doorgen emphasised that drivers have a responsibility to look out for pedestrians and vice versa.

The White Night operations which were carried out in the city last year

The coordinator also called for a return of road conscious motorists, who adhere to the five Cs – care, caution, courtesy, consideration and common sense.

During last year’s White Night campaign, Police ranks administered random breathalyser tests on drivers while road council members and other stakeholders distributed magazines, pamphlets and spoke to drivers on the dangers of the roadways.

When it was implemented last year, in observance of national road safety month, there were road blocks at

strategic points.

Recently, the Police Traffic Department said it recorded a 26 per cent decline in fatal accidents for the period beginning January 1, 2017 to May 15, 2017. Thirty-six fatal accidents and 40 deaths were recorded, compared to 50 fatal accidents and 54 deaths over the same period last year.

There was also a 39 per cent decrease in overall accidents for the same period, as 398 accidents have been recorded, as opposed to 651 the previous year.

It is understood that private cars accounted for most

of the vehicles involved in accidents, standing at 12, while there were four pedal cycles, three minibuses, four lorries, four hire cars, one pickup and four motorcycles.

The Guyana Police Force said speeding remains the major cause of accidents, accounting for 14 accidents in the first quarter of the year.

Other causes were inattentiveness, driving under the influence of alcohol, failure to confirm to road traffic signs, and pedestrians crossing in the path of an approaching vehicle.

Operation Safeway received some credit for this

success. Through this operation, traffic ranks have been on the roads conducting rigid exercises throughout the country, but more particularly in Georgetown, and on the East Bank and East Coast of Demerara.

It was only days ago that in a particularly horrendous accident, 67-yearold Daniel Richmond lost his life. Richmond, a wellknown umpire and cricket coach attached to the Sport Department of the Education Ministry, was reportedly returning home after attending church when the minibus in which he was travelling was struck from behind by a Toyota Tundra pickup.

Upon impact, the Route 41 minibus toppled several times before coming to a halt. The father of 10, who was unidentified at the time, died on the spot while several others were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where they were admitted.

On Monday, another life was lost to the roadways.

This time it occurred at the corner of Middle and Camp Streets, when a female driver is alleged to have jumped a red light and struck a 45-year-old businessman, killing him.

10

guyanatimesgy.com

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017

News

DeSouza calls for greater enforcement of domestic violence laws

A

ward-winning women rights activist Karen DeSouza is calling on the authorities to strengthen the enforcement of domestic violence laws, aimed at reducing the maiming and killing of women.

DeSouza said the current legislative framework offered enough protection for women in Guyana, but enforcement was lacking miserably at all levels.

The head of Red Thread told Guyana Times if the country got serious about implementing the laws and acquiring the expertise and capacity, that alone would help to bear successful results.

“First of all, we need to recognise that women are human beings, children are human beings and they have rights like everybody else.

And we need to recognise and respect those rights, and if they are breached, then there must be some penalties,” she stated.

DeSouza believes that Guyana has some of the most forward-thinking laws in the Caribbean when it

comes to women rights, but it lacks the willpower to effectively implement those laws.

“The dominant male view in the society is not very open to calling their friend.

To dealing with their friends and peers that are guilty of this behaviour that victimises women,” she added.

The women rights activist made reference to several cases where persons in authority used their office to stymie the progress of cases involving women being abused and threatened.

She stressed, therefore, that it must be something that the Government is willing to do in order for the issue to be addressed holistically and becomes less prevalent in society.

DeSouza has long criticised the Police Force’s handling of domestic violence matters.

Although the Force offers training for its members, particularly new recruits in the area of domestic violence, DeSouza said more education was required. She added that her organisation continued to advocate and

Women rights activist Karen DeSouza

fight for the Police to treat domestic violence more seriously, and for more effective measures to be put in place to curb domestic violence.

The head of Red Thread has long highlighted that the Police response really was a matter of luck, noting that it depended on “which officer is on duty and how they will respond to a particular matter”.

Last year, DeSouza said the Social Protection Ministry had been extremely disappointing in dealing with protection of women and children. She said little has been done to implement and ensure the adequate implementation of protective laws for domestic violence, sexual offences and child protection issues.

Hundreds of women in Guyana have been and continue to be victims of do-

mestic violence. While some have sought protective care, others have not managed to get the protection they need.

Others eventually end up being maimed or killed by their spouse, lover or relative.

On Sunday, a 34-yearold mother of three from Corentyne, Berbice succumbed to injuries she sustained from an alleged beating with a metal rod by her reputed husband.

Gomatie Ramsingh, also called “Fazila”, of Number 58 Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) died at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Before her demise, she reportedly told her relatives that her 29-year-old spouse, Adesh Malu, also called “Curry Cow”, had brutalised her. Her last words were recorded on video, detailing that she had been beaten with an iron rod and dragged by her hair down the stairs and around the yard. She had also alleged that her reputed husband kicked and stamped on her stomach as she lay helpless on the ground.

Earlier in May, another woman was brutally killed at the hands of her spouse. Shaneka Elliot, 38, of Linden, was stabbed to death after threatening to end the relationship with her husband, who had allegedly abused her for years.

She was stabbed multiple times about her body and left for dead.

Business sense

Dear Diary, This is Gas Skin. No...no…no! NOT Ram Own Gas Skin.

Please, Dear Diary, don’t keep confusing me with that loudmouth. I am the quiet Gas Skin. I just came back from England trying to drum up some foreign Guyanese to invest back home.

It was not as exciting as I thought it would have been.

I didn’t get to see the Queen – even though I did see the Guards in their snazzy Red Costumes guarding Buckingham Palace.

I didn’t bother to bring up with the Guyanese they could lobby to remove the British ban on our greenheart – which has destroyed our forestry sector. Nah…I told them about us conserving our rainforests and wetlands and suchlike.

We may starve…but we love our forests and if we die, we will die protecting them.

I told our brothers in England (NOT “the brothers”, Dear Diary. Please. I am not that riff raff Gas Skin) that while there is poverty, inequality, poor health care and education in Guyana, we are not unique. What do they think caused the Manchester bombing??

I also told them how much better off we were than Venezuela and Brazil that have all kinds of problems – including bombings. But I told them also we will get rich from building that road to Brazil so we can ship their goods.

If their problems go away.

But Dear Diary, I don’t really think we will get much business from Britain. Didn’t they do a Brexit from us before that Brexit from Europe? Only we call it “independence”.

You can’t trust them.

But I just figured a way to solve our business problems.

When I left Timehri, I saw hundreds of Cubans shipping huge bundles of goods by plane. They buy it from the Chinese businesses.

All we have to do is start collecting duties and VAT from them!!

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

11

News

Oil agreement

More info on contract needed – economist …to facilitate informed discussions

A

n economist is calling for more details on the oil and gas agreement, which the Government has so far been reluctant to release to the general public based on “advice received”.

Former Presidential Advisor Ramon Gaskin, in a recent interview, said it was impossible for the ordinary people of Guyana to get an accurate understanding of how much Guyana stood to benefit, through the sole platform of the consultations being held.

Instead, he called for the release of the agreement.

Gaskin likened the secrecy surrounding the agreement to that surrounding the parking meter agreement between City Hall and a private company. When the details had finally been released, it had precipitated street protests.

“You cannot get an understanding of the ExxonMobil agreement until it is public, so that people can read it.

All these consultations and seminars, but we cannot get to read the document.”

“We need to see these

things,” Gaskin stressed. “It has to be laid in the National Assembly and it has to be debated and we have to be able to read it and study it, but we haven’t been able to see it.”

He noted that the public’s lack of information, besides what royalty payments Guyana would accrue, extended to how much taxes Exxon would pay when it did start production.

Among some of the questions the economist had was the amount of taxes the government would be collecting from ExxonMobil. He queried whether Exxon would be paying any Corporation or Capital Gains taxes, and if so, how much.

Capital Gains taxes may apply in the event that Exxon sold or acquired new blocks. At present, ExxonMobil owns 45 per cent of the oil block, while Hess Guyana Exploration owns 30 per cent and a Chinese company, CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Ltd, holds a 25 per cent interest.

Corporation taxes apply to income and profits. Some

Economist Ramon Gaskin

companies are subject to as much as 40 per cent taxes on chargeable income. The Corporation Tax Act Cap. 81:03 sets out the companies exempt by law from the minimum tax, which include companies deriving a percentage of their income from tourism or agriculture, and insurance companies.

“We have to keep demanding that the Government publish it. How will you have consultations if we do not know what is in-

side (the contract)? (At this point, it’s) just talking and speculating. We have to see the contract, so we can have a proper discussion on it.”

While the economist has stressed accountability and transparency on the agreement, Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman has stated publicly that full disclosure of what has been agreed between Exxon and Guyana would not be a good idea.

He was at the time addressing members of the local press during a media breakfast at the Herdmanston Lodge. Along with him was Exxon’s Country Manager Jeff Simmons.

According to the Natural Resources Minister, there is absolutely no need for Guyana to be making noise about its oil find, as that could have consequences at this stage.

The current Administration had inherited from the former Administration a contract which was signed in 1999.

Trotman said Government took a decision to examine the legal document, but avoided reopening it in its entirety for negotiations.

It is possible, however,

Oil exploration in the Stabroek Block

for the contract to be updated so that future arrangements could complement the industry.

“We did not want it to go abroad. Guyana is a place where we didn’t respect the sanctity of contracts entered into, and we thought it best to preserve what we have found. It was not altogether a bad contract… full disclosure will not be to the national benefit or interest,” he told Journalists.

“I am saying don’t let’s go out there shouting with the interest of full disclo-

sure. Everything we say and do as a government is being recorded, and will be used against us. We are prepared to share the salient features of the contract, which is a 50/50 partnership production share agreement; which means that Exxon and its partners will share 50 per cent among themselves and the Government of Guyana will share 50 per cent,” he had said. Negotiations are currently being undertaken between Guyana and Exxon on the rate of royalty to be paid per barrel.

12 news

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Farmer pinned to death by tractor at Canje

Smyth Street fatal accident

Minibus driver who fled scene charged, remanded

E

The body of 64-year-old Hackim Khan and the tractor involved in the accident (Royan Abrams photo)

T

he lifeless and muddied body of a pensioner was on Tuesday afternoon found pinned under a tractor at a ranch in New Forest, East Canje, Berbice.

The dead man has been identified as 64-yearold Hackim Khan of Cumberland, East Canje, Berbice.

Based on reports received, the man’s body was discovered at about 14:30h on Tuesday by persons who were traversing the area.

While information about the unfortunate incident was not forthcoming, Guyana Times was told the man left his home at about 08:00h to visit a friend’s farm to check on the workers. The farm, this publication under-

stands, is located some distance from the main road.

When contacted, Police Commander of B Division (Berbice), Ian Amsterdam told this newspaper that based on initial investigations, the man was reportedly ploughing in the rice field aback Canje when the tractor toppled and pinned him in the process.

The Commander added that the Police will continue their investigations to determine whether or not any foul play was involved but as it is presently, the matter is being treated as an accident. A post-mortem is expected to be performed on the man’s body on Friday.

Attempts to contact the dead man’s relatives proved futile.

lton Carter, the driver who allegedly fled the scene after crashing into a minibus on Durban and Smyth Streets, Georgetown last Sunday, was on Tuesday charged when he appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman for causing death by dangerous driving.

The charge stated that Carter on May 21, 2017, drove motor pickup GRR 8450 in a manner dangerous to the public thereby causing the death of Daniel Gostavos Richmond.

Defence Attorney Stanley Moore seeking to establish that his client is not a flight risk related that Carter is a building contractor who has a fixed place of abode at Eccles, on the East Bank of Demerara.

Moore contended, based on instructions received, that the accused is the owner of the vehicle and was not driving same at the time of the accident, rather contending that the vehicle was driven by a woman. The identity of the alleged female driver remains undisclosed.

The lawyer requested that his client be released on bail in a reasonable sum pending trial, indicating that he (Carter) is anxious to vindicate himself and will attend every court sitting in the event that he is released.

Remanded: Minibus driver, Elton Carter

Moore disclosed that he represented the accused in an unrelated matter which was recently dismissed.

Police Prosecutor Shellon Payne posed a strong objection to bail being granted in light of three pending trafficking charges which Carter is to face shortly. According to Constable Persaud, the accused is an unlicensed driver and had failed to produce same to Police upon request. Moreover, the vehicle is allegedly uninsured. Also, the court heard that another passenger of the crashed minibus remains in a critical condition at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Payne told the Magistrate that the accused was non-cooperative during the course of the investigation, reportedly being reluctant to assist investigating officials.

She related that after receiving reports, Police found the suspect at a hospital receiving treatment and had been

checking in and out of various hospitals during the investigating period thereby hampering the investigation process. She related that the accused, a few days later, told officials that a female was the driver of the vehicle but failed to provide a name or present the alleged driver as required by the law.

Bail was refused by Magistrate Latchman and the lawyer in a failed attempt to establish the ill state of his client, disclosed that Carter presently suffers from whiplash; raising further questions from the court.

According to Health Line, whiplash occurs when a person’s head moves backward and then forward suddenly with great force. This injury is most common following a vehicular collision.

Latchman readily inquired from the counsel how the accused had received the injuries and whether he was involved in the accident, apparently causing the lawyer to lose his balance. After stuttering for a second and quickly gaining his composure, Moore revealed that Carter was a passenger in the vehicle driven by ‘Jane Doe’; his response creating quite a buzz in the courtroom.

Following a lengthy submission by the lawyer, the accused was remanded until June 1 for report as bail was refused by Magistrate Latchman.

This publication previously reported that the accident occurred around 16:00h

Dead: Daniel Richmond lost his life in the tragic accident

on May 21, when minibus BVV 5273 was proceeding along Durban Street heading to South, Georgetown, when it was struck from behind by the black pickup which was said to be speeding along Smyth Street headed North.

Eyewitness stated that the pickup then hit a parked blue Allion before coming to a halt, while the minibus which was fully loaded toppled a number of times.

Injured persons were pulled from the mangled minibus, some in an unconscious state and Richmond, the now dead man, was said to be “half in and half out of the minibus.” Following the accident, the injured driver of the vehicle reportedly fled the scene.

Meanwhile, the deceased – a former cricket coach, umpire and Guyana Cricket Board scorer – leaves to mourn several family members. (Paula Gomes)

news

13

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Showdown between Lethem Mayor, Regional Vice Chair

Police report filed over removal of regional flag R

elations between the Mayor and Town Council of Lethem and the Regional Vice Chairman have apparently soured, with a report being filed with the Police against Vice Chairman Karl Singh over the removal of a proposed regional flag.

It is understood that during the Independence Day observances, Mayor Carlton Beckles had used the regional flag; one of the products of consultations central government held in which some regional representatives had agreed to adopt their individual flags.

In a statement condemning the “unceremonious” removal of the flag by Singh, the Mayor and Town Council of Lethem stated that it has lodged an official report with the Guyana Police Force, where statements were given. “We now

look forward for the law to take its course, since this individual seems adamant on carrying out the wishes of his masters and would have shown total disregard for the vision of the President of this country and the Government of the day,” the Council stated.

“His action is also in total disrespect to the Town Council since the flag was raised within the boundary of the town at an area that is the responsibility of the Council. This flag was raised by the Council at 00:30 hours on the 26th of May, 2017 at the flag raising ceremony.”

According to the Council, Singh objected to the proposed flag being raised on the grounds that they had not finished their consultations. But the Council noted that this is four months after the mandate was received from Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan.

The regional flags, when they were first on display following a consultation

“The Mayor and Town Council of Lethem did their consultations within the township and submitted their reports to the Ministry of Communities and the Regional Chairman; from all observances, it seem that the office of the Regional Chairman is dragging its feet in having these consultations done and the actions of the Regional Vice Chairman is proof of this,”

the statement affirmed.

“However, he would have miscalculated and might have broken the law.

The Mayor requests that an investigation be done to determine whether the law was broken and what law was broken since the flag was raised in a public space and it is the property of the Government of Guyana, and open spaces within the municipality boundaries are the respon-

sibility of the Mayor and Town Council.”

According to the Council, the decision to remove the flag was “disrespectful to the Mayor and Town Council of Lethem, the residents of Lethem, and the Disciplined Services. He had no right to arbitrarily remove a symbol, despite the fact it was still in proposal mode, from a square designed to accommodate national commemorative

observances.”

In 2015, when the Government announced its intention to assign each administrative region with its very own flag, it posited that this was a move which depicted a representation of independence.

The A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change coalition contended that this decision would complement the Administration’s effort to implement a de-centralised governing system in the country.

But the move has long been denounced for offering no tangible benefit.

In addition, the People’s Progressive Party had stated that the Constitution of Guyana speaks of one flag, the Golden Arrowhead, as the constitutional flag of Guyana. It had also noted that the consultations would not reach a consensus.

$5M village shop commissioned in Katoonarib R esidents of Katoonarib in deep South Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo) will no longer have to travel long distances to purchase goods, as the community commissioned its own village shop, as part of the Community Development Project (CDP).

The village shop is a CDP which started in 2016 after the community received the first tranche of funding under the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF) for the implementation of Phase II of the CDP. Vice President and Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, who officially commissioned the project, challenged residents to utilise the facility to market their local produce,

since the business opened its doors, it has not only received support from villagers, but a number of businesses in Lethem.

Residents who participated in the commissioning ceremony

are realised.

Minister Allicock commended the residents for initiating such a project, and said the Ministry will be willing to support similar income generating projects. According t0 a GINA report, the villagers were also commended for their support, since 100 per cent

The Katoonarib village shop

and capitalise on these initiatives to ensure economic and other developments

of the construction of the facility was executed by them.

Katoonarib is known as the largest producer of peanuts in the South Rupununi and Minister Allicock challenged residents to ensure the village shop is the springboard for bigger things to come.

Allicock also reminded the residents that accountability and transparency must be taken seriously.

Security is another key component, and according to the Minister, “every villager must be a security officer, meaning you must be able to check, it is yours, you must allow it to grow so you don’t want anybody to come and rob you of it.”

Several villagers expressed their happiness that the village has its own shop and will continue to support its operations.

“This is good, it’s more close to me now,” Elfreda Cyril, who had to walk seven miles to the closest shop in the village pointed out.

Toshao of the village, Marcus Alexander said

Katoonarib is a small Indigenous settlement in the deep South Rupununi.

It has a population of approximately 400, and its

main economic activities are cash crop farming and cattle rearing. Traditional fishing and hunting continue.

14

guyanatimesgy.com

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017

Regional

T&T to host Caribbean conference Manuel Noriega, former on ageing and rights of older people Panama dictator, dies at 83

T

M

anuel Noriega, the former Panamanian dictator whose regime was marked by brutal repression, ultimately disastrous collusion with the CIA and the establishment of “the hemisphere’s first narcokleptocracy”, has died at the age of 83.

His death, late on Monday, was announced on Tuesday by the President of the central American country. Juan Carlos Varela tweeted: “The death of Manuel A Noriega closes a chapter in our history; his daughters and their families deserve to bury him in peace.”

Noriega had been put into an induced coma in March after undergoing brain surgery. A Government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Noriega died at about 23:00h local time after his condition suddenly worsened.

Noriega ruled Panama from 1983 to 1989, spying for the CIA before the US invaded in 1989, toppling his

Manuel Antonio Noriega was put into an induced coma in March after brain surgery

repressive regime and ending a drug-trafficking career that associated him with the Colombian kingpin Pablo Escobar.

With the knowledge of US officials, Noriega formed “the hemisphere’s first narcokleptocracy”, a US Senate subcommittee report said, describing him as “the best example in recent US foreign policy of how a foreign leader is able to manipulate the United States to the detriment of our own interests”.

Like many authoritarian Latin American fig-

ures of the latter half of the 20th century, Noriega was trained at the notorious, US-run School of the Americas, whose graduates include the disgraced former Peruvian spy chief Vladimiro Montesinos and the former Argentinian dictator Leopoldo Galtieri.

He joined Panama’s defence forces in 1962 and rose steadily through the ranks, mainly through loyalty to his mentor, Gen Omar Torrijos, who became Panama’s de facto leader after a coup in 1968. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

rinidad and Tobago will host a two-day Caribbean preparatory meeting for the Fourth Regional Intergovernmental Conference on ‘Ageing and the Rights of Older Persons’.

The June 1-2 meeting will precede the Fourth Regional Intergovernmental Conference on ‘Ageing and the Rights of Older Persons’ in Latin America and the Caribbean to be held in Asuncion, Paraguay from June 27-30.

The Chile-based Economic Commissioner for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) said

that it is facilitating the review and appraisal exercise within the region in keeping with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Resolution regarding the third regional review and appraisal of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (2002) in 2017 to be followed by a global review by the United Nations Commission for Social Development in early 2018.

ECLAC said that the Caribbean preparatory meeting will be an opportunity to focus particularly on the progress made in

the sub-region in the implementation of the Madrid Plan of Action and the San Jose Charter on the Rights of Older Persons in Latin America and the Caribbean.

It said the meeting will also seek to identify future priorities and policy responses and will prepare contributions to the discussions at the subsequent regional conference.

The regional conference will assess the status of implementation of the San José Charter on the Rights of Older Persons in Latin America and the Caribbean.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

PM Rowley promotes better trade links with Chile

Colombia and FARC agree to extend arms deadline

T

he Colombian Government and the FARC rebel group have agreed to give rebel fighters more time to disarm. In a televised speech, President Juan Manuel Santos said the group had been granted an extra 20 days.

Under a peace agreement signed late last year all weapons had to be surrendered to the UN by Tuesday. FARC commanders had argued that they could not meet the original

deadline because of delays in building special camps to house demobilised fighters.

According to the deal, which was reached after four years of talks in Cuba, about 7000 fighters in 26 transition zones were to have handed their arms to the UN by May 30.

President Santos also said that the time that the rebels would be allowed to stay in the demobilisation camps would be extended to August 1. After that, all fighters must start their re-

integration process into civil society.

Earlier this month, the first group to complete the disarmament process received certificates from the UN mission at a ceremony in Bogota. Thousands of rebels have handed over their weapons since the FARC signed the peace agreement.

President Santos was awarded last year’s Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to reach a deal with the FARC.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Haiti garment workers protest over wages again

T&T’s delegation headed by Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley during bilateral talks with Chile’s P resident Michelle Bachelet at the Chilean Presidential Palace

T

he Governments of Trinidad and Tobago and Chile on Monday signed bilateral agreements and have expressed a common view on the importance of regional integration and democracy.

Prime Minister, Dr Keith Rowley was met by the Chilean President Michelle Bachelet and received a guard of honour. They later had bilateral discussions where agreements were signed and a joint declaration made.

Bachelet said: “Trinidad

and Tobago is a very important partner in energy, as a main supplier of Liquefied Natural Gas.” Foreign Ministers of Trinidad and Tobago and Chile, Dennis Moses and Heraldo Munoz respectively signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Copyright Cooperation and Development.

The agreement realises the importance of intellectual property and its relation to the economic, social and cultural development of both countries.

G

arment workers have taken to the streets of the Haitian capital for the second time in two weeks to demand a minimum wage increase. The workers at factories making T-shirts, pants and other apparel were also demonstrating Monday against the firing of roughly 40 union members at a Port-

au-Prince industrial park.

Reginald Lanfontant is a union coordinator and one of the fired workers. He asserts the dismissals are “abusive” and demonstrations will continue.

They’re demanding 800 Haitian gourdes per eighthour work day. Based on current exchange rates, that’s

roughly US$12.47 per day.

They now earn 300 gourdes, or US$4.67.

Factories are operational at the park that employs some 18,000 people.

Monday’s protest had nearly 500 participants, a far smaller turnout than a May 19 rally that attracted thousands. (Jamaica Observer)

(Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Grenada Govt and sole electricity provider still at odds

T

A factory worker holds up a sign that reads in Creole

The countries will work with a view to develop cooperation on matters relating to the creation, utilisation, promotion, protection and administration of intellectual property rights.

This information was posted on the Chilean Minister’s Twitter account shortly after the event. The MoU was signed on Monday, on the first day of the twoday state visit to the South American nation by the T&T delegation led by Prime Minister, Dr Keith Rowley.

he Grenada Government says it remains “concerned” at the decision by the main shareholders of the Grenada Electricity Company (GRENLEC) to seek international arbitration in a bid to resolve the company’s monopoly status.The Grenada Private Power Limited (GPP), which holds a 50 per cent stake in GRENLEC and its parent company, WRB Enterprises Inc (WRB), on May 5 filed a request for arbitration with the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), an arm of the Washington-based World Bank.

GPP and WRB commenced the ICSID proceeding in follow-up to a formal share repurchase demand that it had submitted to Government on March 22.

But in a statement Monday, the Keith Mitchell administration said that it

“continues to be concerned that GPP/WRB has sought international arbitration, in a premeditated action, instead of engaging with the Government to resolve the matter in a way that helps consumers and benefits the people of Grenada”.

It said, furthermore, after deciding to escalate the dispute, “GPP/WRB is not even paying their way.

The government said it is maintaining its position that citizens, including consumers of GRENLEC “come first” and that “our Grenadian people should not be forced to bear an unfair financial strain. (Excerpt from

Jamaica Observer)

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

15

Around the World

South Sudan soldiers face India tightens meat laws amid trial for rape and murder industry fierce protests

T

hirteen South Sudanese soldiers accused of raping five foreign aid workers and killing John Gatluak, their local colleague, appeared before a military court on Tuesday, a case seen as a test of the government’s ability to put people on trial for war crimes.

The attack, one of the worst on aid workers in South Sudan’s civil war, took place on July 11, 2016, as President Salva Kiir’s troops won a three-day battle in Juba over opposition forces loyal to former Vice President Riek Machar.

Describing the incident, the manager of the Terrain Hotel where the attack happened, Mike Woodward, told

The attack took place last year as President Kiir’s troops in Juba battled opposition forces loyal to Riek Machar

the court that “between 50 to 100” soldiers arrived in the hotel in the afternoon

of July 11 and began looting an hour later.

Prosecutors told Reuters

the alleged murderers face a minimum of 10 years in jail with a fine paid to the victim’s family, or a maximum of the death penalty. Those accused of rape face up to 14 years. Court officials said the trial would resume on June 6.

Witnesses told Reuters news agency at the time that armed men attacked the hotel in the capital, Juba, for several hours.

Victims phoned UN peacekeepers stationed a mile away and begged for help, but none came, the witnesses said. The military head of the UN peacekeeping mission was fired and the political head resigned over the incident. (Excerpt from Al

Jazeera)

South Africa to harvest largest maize crop in 40 years

S

outh Africa is expecting to harvest its biggest maize crop in four decades, a year after drought devastated output of the country’s staple food.

Farmers are set to produce over 15 million tonnes which means the country will have a 50% surplus for the year, according to gov-

ernment figures.

The bumper harvest is a result of good rains in January and February.

The extra produce is expected to help to push food prices down, according to agricultural economists.

Food security is a concern for many and in South Africa rising food prices

have made life more difficult particularly for the millions of poor and unemployed, says the BBC’s Pumza Fihlani.

A drop in the cost of food would be a welcome relief for many households, our correspondent says. South Africa, along with the rest of the region, is still recovering

from the effects of last year’s drought that was caused by the El Nino climate phenomenon and led to widespread food shortages.

But, according to the local weather services, the rainfall recorded in January and February this year was more than double the average. (BBC News)

I

ndia’s Hindu nationalist Government has announced the tightest restrictions yet on the country’s multibillion-dollar meat industry, drawing fierce protests from some states amid warnings that millions of jobs could be lost.

“Beef festivals” were held in Kerala state at the weekend and a cow was slaughtered in public as a show of defiance against the regulations, which prohibit most livestock from being sold for slaughter at animal markets.

The high court in another southern state, Tamil Nadu, has suspended the restrictions for four weeks to determine their constitutionality.

Footage also emerged on Monday of what appeared to be a fresh vigilante attack on cattle traders, one of a spate of assaults and at least 10 killings of Indians accused

of consuming or transporting beef since 2015.

Cows are revered by most Hindus. The prime minister, Narendra Modi, ran for office in 2014 on a platform of banning their slaughter nationally. A number of states have bolstered punishments for crimes against cows since his election, including Gujarat, where killing the animal can earn a life sentence.

India’s environment ministry announced new restrictions on Friday, banning livestock including cows, buffaloes and camels from being sold for slaughter at animal markets. The rules, which the government says are in the interests of animal welfare, also prohibit selling livestock for entertainment and implement minimum standards for animal housing and transportation. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Blasts strike Baghdad days into Ramadan, killing 27

Merkel, Minister stress US ties after critical Trump tweet

German Chancellor Angela Merkel (left) sits next to Tunisia’s President Beji Caid Essebsi (centre) and speaks to President Donald Trump (right) as they attend a G7 expanded session during the G7 Summit in Taormina, Sicily, Italy (file photo)

U

S President Donald Trump called Germany’s trade and spending policies “very bad” on Tuesday, intensifying a row between the longtime allies and immediately

earning himself the moniker “destroyer of Western values” from a leading German politician.

As the war of words threatened to spin out of control, Merkel and other

senior German politicians stressed the importance of Germany’s Atlantic ties, with Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel suggesting the spat was just a rough patch.

Trump took to Twitter early in the day in the United States to attack Germany, a day after Chancellor Angela Merkel ramped up her doubts about the reliability of Washington as an ally.

“We have a MASSIVE trade deficit with Germany, plus they pay FAR LESS than they should on NATO & military. Very bad for US. This will change,” Trump tweeted.

The tit-for-tat dispute escalated rapidly after Trump, at back-to-back summits last week, criticised major NATO allies over their military spending and refused to endorse a global climate change accord.

Merkel had already begun finessing her message on Monday, stressing that she was a “convinced trans-Atlanticist”, a message she repeated after a meeting with visiting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Berlin.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

T

In the second blast near Al-Shahada Bridge, 11 people were killed

wo blasts ripped through the Iraqi capital of Baghdad just days into the holy month of Ramadan, killing at least 27 people and wounding more than 100.

ISIL claimed the first and deadliest suicide car bomb attack, which took place shortly after midnight at a busy ice cream parlour in Karrada, killing at least 16 people and injuring at least 75 – with children among the victims.

ISIL considers members of Iraq’s Shia Muslim majority to be heretics and frequently carries out attacks

50 still in hospital, 17 in critical care after Manchester attack

F

ifty patients are still being treated in hospital for injuries sustained in last week’s Manchester attack, including 17 who are in critical care, the health authority for England said on Tuesday.

The suicide bombing at a pop concert venue killed 22 children and adults, and a total of 116 people received hospital treatment in

the days immediately after the attack.

The health authority, NHS England, said being in critical care was not the same as being critically ill. It provided no further explanation, but doctors and hospital officials said last week that some patients had suffered life-changing injuries to major orPeople attend a vigil for the victims of last week’s attack at a pop concert gans and to limbs. (Reuters) at Manchester Arena, in central Manchester, Britain May 29, 2017

against them. A number of wounded lay on the ground, others propped themselves up on the colourful park benches outside the ice cream shop.

During Ramadan, people stay up late and many eat out to prepare for the fast the next day. “Families were out and the place was crowded,” Hayder al-Khoei, a London-based Middle East expert, told Al Jazeera.

Al-Khoei explained that the armed group “timed Tuesday’s attack to cause maximum impact”. “The suicide bomber detonated himself just after midnight… he targeted a popular ice cream parlour in Baghdad,” he said.

A second deadly explosion struck the Al-Shahada Bridge area later in the morning, killing at least 11 people and wounding 41, according to security sources and witnesses.

A car bomb there exploded near the country’s main pension office close to the River Tigris. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the second bombing, though it also bore the hallmarks of ISIL. (Excerpt from Al

Jazeera)

16 news

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Ramsammy’s Ruminations Plans revealed for new Another APNU/AFC deception housing scheme near Lethem T – the referendum on LGBT rights is intended to deny them

A

This composite photo gives a view of Lethem in Region Ni ne

new housing development could be built on the edge of Lethem in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

Lethem Mayor Carlton Beckles recently revealed that the municipality planned to develop a 2000-house lot housing development on a site which is about six miles away from Lethem.

The project, which is being pursued by the Lethem municipality, was pitched to the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Beckles said.

“Now that I sit on the Central Housing and Planning Authority Board, I started a process of advocating for the Government’s housing drive to Lethem,” the Mayor was quoted as

saying by the Government Information Agency (GINA).

He explained that he pitched the idea to the Board, and was challenged to meet with the stakeholders in the community, to put forward the proposal and address such issues as land for the housing development.

This meeting occurred late last week, Beckles said.

“I met with the various stakeholders, mainly the representatives from the Guyana Lands and Surveys, the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), the Lethem Power Company, and the Guyana Power and Light and we went through the process of identifying lands for this housing drive,” he said.

He explained further

that the stakeholders were able to identify an area, at Pork Bridge, just outside Lethem, “where we could have 400 acres of land that can be transformed into 2000 house lots,” he said.

The meeting also allowed for consensus with regard to the category and the size of lots that would be developed and offered to residents. The residents agreed that the house lots would be developed in three categories: low, middle and high income at 50 x 100 feet, 60 x 120 feet and 80 x 150 feet, respectively, Beckles said.

“Definitely, the land is there and we are going out there to the site, sometime in the course of this week, and have a firsthand look, and then I would take our suggestions and agreements, back to the Board,

for them to start the process with the Guyana Lands and Surveys (Commission) in having the land, (the site) being handed over for the development of the scheme,” the Mayor said.

Located on Guyana’s southern border, Lethem is home to a number of settlements, including Tabatinga Housing Scheme.

This scheme is located on the outskirts of Lethem near the Takutu Bridge that links Guyana to Brazil. It was established and further developed by the CH&PA between 2000 and 2003.

GINA said this followed efforts such as site investigations into Tabatinga and the implementation of appropriate development interventions to address existing realities within the scheme.

Linden Mayor seeks support for ‘elderly care’ programme

By Utamu Belle

U

nder the guidance of Linden Mayor Carwyn Holland, community group Linden Youth Leaders is presently in the process of rolling out a much-needed elderly care programme within the Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) community.

Mayor Holland recently told Guyana Times that such a programme was recognised to have been lacking from the community for many years and based on observations, there were a number of elderly folk in need of such services.

He also highlighted his personal experience with his father, who passed away last year, noting the struggles that families face in taking care of their elderly folk. Residents in the community have also voiced this concern, alluding to the need for quality elderly care in Linden.

“We’ve recognised that proper elderly care is something that is wanting in Linden and at a meeting with the Linden Youth Leaders, the youths would have recognised as well that it is something that we must look at,” Holland said.

The Linden Mayor also pointed to the plight of an elderly woman in the community, noting that she represented only a fraction of elderly residents in need.

“She said that some days she’s not healthy enough or well enough to cook something for herself. She’s in her seventies and she lives alone. Several times she would have said that until she feels better, that’s when she gets up and prepares something for herself.

That’s a tough situation to be in as an elderly person…

Those things struck me that we need proper elderly care. This is a problem that existed for many years and I believe that it’s something that needs to be addressed and with urgency. That’s just the plight of one elderly person. There’re many others who are in need of this urgent support,” he noted.

He said the Linden Youth Leaders group was seeking to commence the elderly care programme soon and as such was seeking assistance from Central Government through funding to offset the implementation of the programme and training. Holland said it was the hope that registration would commence in June. Under the pro-

Linden Mayor Carwyn Holland

gramme, visits will be conducted to the homes of those registered by voluntary and permanent workers. He added that retired nurses in the community have already signalled their intention to be part of the programme, while he noted that nurses in training could also come on board, according to their availability. In some cases, Holland said, relatives across the Diaspora will also be called upon to render support as there are plans to register all elderly people in need of assistance. He added that while some persons working under the programme would be paid, others would work on a partly voluntary basis.

“There are young per-

sons who are out of a job and this is one way of finding employment and getting our youths to take care of the elderly…In Linden, we have several persons who would have fetched this country through bauxite mining and it’s only fitting that we honour them and take care of them in their elderly age,” he said, noting that he was confident that Lindeners would support the initiative.

“We’re calling on all the youths of Linden to get on board with this,” he appealed.

Meanwhile, Social Protection Ministry’s Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit Manager Akilah Dorris said the Ministry, through the Office of the Directorate of Social Services, recently established a visiting committee for elderly facilities and residential homes across the country. She noted that it was a multi-sectoral committee, which was intended to document the needs of the elderly population and to make recommendations in terms of the facilities where elderly people reside in an effort to ensure that they cater for their physical, dietary and mobility needs.

wo males or two females having consensual sex in the privacy of their own home can be sentenced to life-imprisonment under the laws of Guyana. Although this law is old, archaic and has not been enforced in the last several decades, it still stigmatises, discriminates and criminalises the LGBT community. Guyana by law denies some people their fundamental human rights.

Different governments Dr Leslie Ramsammy have failed to correct this blatant violation of Guyana's obligation of freedom and equality for all citizens. I regret that I was not more forceful during my tenure in Parliament to ensure we remedy this shameful deficit in extending equality to ALL CITIZENS. Under review by the United Nations (UN) Commission on Human Rights, Guyana's Parliament is obligated to review our laws and remove laws such as the sodomy laws that criminalise the LGBT community, denying some citizens their fundamental human rights. The 10th Parliament established a Special Select Committee to ensure the review and recommend a pathway to bring our laws into conformity with international human rights standards. The 11th Parliament has basically repudiated those efforts by refusing to pursue the review of the sodomy laws.

Compounding the problem, APNU/AFC has asserted that decriminalisation of LGBT by repealing sodomy laws can only be determined by a referendum. The President last year spoke about a referendum to determine whether the sodomy laws should be repealed. This year, both the Attorney General and the Foreign Affairs Minister have also spoken of a referendum.

The referendum proposal for repealing laws that criminalise the lifestyles of LGBT citizens in Guyana is a deliberate effort to torpedo the obligation of Parliament to bring our laws in conformity with the UN Universal Declaration on Human Rights.

The truth is the proposal of a referendum to decide whether the laws that criminalise LGBT should be repealed is another deception, another hoax by APNU/AFC. By choosing the path of a referendum, APNU/AFC has chosen to continue the denial of fundamental human rights to the LGBT community. Firstly, this will take time. Secondly, it will generate disharmony and acrimony in a society that is already plagued by polarisation.

The proposed referendum will promote greater stigma and discrimination and even incite violence against citizens. Thirdly, APNU/AFC's referendum proposal is designed to bury the movement to make our laws more humane and more consistent with human rights standards.

This past week, we celebrated the 51st anniversary of Guyana's Independence. But more and more, by various actions, APNU/AFC is compromising our sovereignty. The criminalisation of LGBT through sodomy laws is a handover from our colonial past. It is law in Guyana through a savings-law clause in our Constitution that deemed certain laws which we inherited from the British an automatic law in our country. Yet the UK itself repealed the law in 1968. The referendum proposal is a stumbling block to the repealing of the law, ensuring that the colonial heritage of Guyana remains firmly in place.

The view of the Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, is a more practical one. He and his party recognised that the fundamental human rights of LGBT Guyanese are being denied by laws that presently make LGBT citizens criminals, even if they are rarely prosecuted. He conceded that the laws criminalising LGBT must be repealed. But he also recognises that there are other human rights issues pertaining to the lifestyles of LGBT citizens, such as same-sex marriage. In his view that is a matter that requires more dialogue and will have to be addressed at a later time, since Guyana may not be ready to take this leap that many countries have already taken. He is proposing an incremental approach.

Political hesitancy to repeal the sodomy laws is based on an argument that the majority of Guyanese support these punitive laws and, therefore, APNU/AFC posits they have no mandate to change them. In 2001, the PPP made the same argument when President Jagdeo refused to assent a bill which prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation. Church leaders, supported by the then PNC-Opposition successfully lobbied President Jagdeo who asked for more dialogue. Church leaders opposed both the sexual orientation anti-discrimination provision in the Constitution then and still oppose the repealing of the sodomy laws because they argue these are against the laws of God and that such provisions open the door for samesex marriage.

But the Constitution which guarantees the freedom of religion also guarantees equal rights for all citizens. We have been wrong in denying the fundamental rights of LGBT citizens before, hiding behind God. APNU/AFC is now compounding the wrong by hiding behind God and a referendum. It is an ugly and an ungodly excuse to continue the denial of fundamental human rights to ALL CITIZENS.

news

17

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Small miners want GGMC’s operations investigated

…appeal to Trotman to look into alleged corruption, mining blocks’ allocation

T

he Guyana National Mining Syndicate is calling for a fullfledged investigation into the operations of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the removal of acting Commissioner Newell Dennison and Technical Adviser Donald Singh.

The call was made on Tuesday as the group protested in front of the GGMC’s Brickdam office in the hope that someone would be able to alleviate their suffering. The small miners’ group says it is not being allowed to mine owing to the lack of lands and accuses the GGMC of giving priority to large and medium-scale miners.

Judith David Blair, President of the Karau Mining Syndicate, said the small miners were frustrated by landlordism and thus requested that they be given land so that they could work. She added that they were trying to conduct their

Acting GGMC Commissioner Newell Dennison

they also observed that the lands they applied for were being given to other miners, most of them large or medium-scale operators.

“We’re very concerned and want to say to the Minister that he needs to hear the cry of the small miners, the plight of the small miners and he has to pay attention to us, because while a few will be benefit-

Some of the protesters

operations in accordance with the law, but the level of nonchalance displayed by the GGMC officials made this a tough task.

“We decide to come out here, because after making several applications for lands for over a year now, we have not been given a formal word or documentation that would lead us into mining and not prospecting and it’s very hard.

First, as small miners, we have a multitude of people with us who are fighting for bread and butter today and all we know is mining and that’s what we want to do.

We have dredges that have been laid up for over a year and, through this initiative of the Syndicate, we are now hoping that our lands will be processed and we would be able to mine,” she said.

Blair related that they met with Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman on March 29, and he promised to address the processing of mining lands for small farmers as a matter of immediate importance.

However, she noted that the Minister merely uttered false promises since they were still awaiting the processing of their land applications. The small miner said

ing, the masses are still in distress. We are hopeful and we are waiting on him to make the decision,” Blair said.

Another small miner, Carol Fredericks said the small miners were sick and tired of being treated as though they were not Guyanese and being deprived of their rights to earn a decent living.

Corruption at GGMC

“Corruption must go…

Donald Singh must go…

Dennison must go…Closed Areas Committee must go”; those were just a few of the chants coming from the group as they protested and voiced their frustrations.

The group is accusing acting GGMC Commissioner Dennison and Technical Adviser Singh of deliberately “ducking” their applications.

“GGMC must be investigated. Those responsible must face the penalty for all their wrongdoings, and Mr Dennison ain’t serving no purpose for GGMC. We ask for the removal of Donald Singh, but instead they promote him to adviser to Dennison…GGMC is corrupt,” Fredericks charged.

“The dissatisfaction with

the GGMC, the level of (alleged) corruption within the GGMC, the back and forthness with GGMC…” were among the issues that Blair lamented.

The group is also accusing Dennison and Singh of sabotaging their applications to support their alleged corrupt practices. Blair added that had it not been for their persistence then all of their applications would have been “ducked”.

“Our persistence in getting the applications out and seeing them get on stream we were able to discover that one was missing and that one that was missing, could you imagine that was to facilitate a millionaire in this country who already got money,” she revealed.

Conflict of interest

The Closed Area Committee (CAC) was established in February 1994 and was mandated to identify closed areas and State reserves that can be opened to miners for the purpose of the location of claims, and approving applications for grants of prospecting and mining licences, prospecting permits and mining permits.

However, the small miners are crying foul as it relates to the operation of the CAC. They are saying that their interests are not being represented, whereas there are members from the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) on the Board to represent large and medium-scale miners.

The small miners plan to continue their protest action today

“Closed Areas Committee have directors who are members of the GGDMA; the President of the GGDMA is a director on the Closed Areas Committee and he was given a special order that was passed for land for him in the Karau area which is closer to us….why didn’t they consider the Karau Mining Syndicate for those land? It is less expensive and he was given 15 blocks that was gazetted for him on a special order,” Fredericks related.

“Mr Tony Shields, who is a member or director on that Closed Area Committee and GGMC is renting a building from him for (a hefty sum) and they are talking about conflict of interest…. that is conflict of interest,” she added.

Parish Peak

Parish Peak, located in the Upper Berbice area, is said to be a mining hotspot.

However, Government an-

nounced that the area was off limits to mining and, as such, it would not be issuing any licences to mine in the area.

The Syndicate, however, is saying that mining activities are occurring around the Parish Peak area and, as such, they believe that the Government is deliberately finding excuses to block them from mining.

“I cannot understand the Minister sending a letter to the Berbice Syndicate saying that they cannot have the land because the land is reserved – for I don’t know what, but in that same area 58 mining licences were given out,” Blair questioned.

President of the Berbice Mining Syndicate, Lloyd

Moore said there were over 200 members in the Berbice Syndicate, with more than 3000 lives affected. “The thing is there is so much inequality; there is so much unfairness in this whole issue and we trust that Minister Trotman can rethink his decision, because if it is a reserved area you wouldn’t have 48 other persons working in the area.

If it is a reserve, reserve means that there is nobody else, so there’s something wrong here,” Moore said.

The Syndicate will continue its protests today at the same location and plans to continue protesting until members can be provided with a solution to their issue. (Lakhram Bhagirat)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017

ARCHIE

Jump right in and get moving. What you do will (March 21- make an impression on onApril 19) lookers, executives or someone you are trying to impress.

Love and romance are in the stars.

ARIES

Look at your alternatives TAURUS before you let someone press (April 20- emotional buttons that will May 20) test your patience. Working to resolve issues in a diplomatic fashion will discourage bad etiquette.

dilbert

Channel your energy into GEMINI (May 21- the things and people that June 20) bring you the most joy. You have plenty to gain if you take action and make things happen.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

Get involved in community events and fundraisers, but don’t let anyone dump his or her responsibilities in your lap. Contribute what you feel is fair without infringing on your own needs.

A chance to make a professional or financial move is within reach. Don’t worry about what others say or think; just do what’s best for you. Someone will show jealous tendencies.

Put your heart into any VIRGO (Aug. 23- job or responsibility you are Sept. 22) given. How you perform will make a difference to the way others perceive you. Use your intelligence to master new skills.

Relationships will underLIBRA go changes.

Work on getting (Sept. 23Oct. 23) along with the people in your life who you share the most with mentally, physically and financially. Nurturing the important things will pay off.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

Show dedication, responSCORPIO sibility and the willingness to (Oct. 24take ownership for your acNov. 22) tions. Your productivity and ability to reiterate precisely what you are trying to accomplish will yield good results.

An emotional situation will SAGITTARIUS develop if you evade issues (Nov. 23- that need to be addressed.

Dec. 21) Offer a precise and accurate account of your viewpoint and be willing to compromise.

solution for Last Published Puzzle

Put more money toward CAPRICORN your investments or living (Dec. 22- quarters. Building your asJan. 19) sets will give you peace of mind. An unexpected gift will take you by surprise.

If you sign up for a chalAQUARIUS lenge that will require stami(Jan. 20na, strength and determinaFeb. 19) tion, you will come out on top.

Share your victory with the ones you love.

RULES OF THE GAME: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed. 3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” is not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed. To contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe, write to Word Game, Kathleen Saxe, Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

Copyright 2015, Distributed by Universal Uclick for UFS

Play whatever game you PISCES choose with personal finesse (Feb. 20March 20) and an unexpected approach.

Doing things differently will be your entry to the winner’s circle. Don’t hesitate to stick to your own plans.

wedneSDAY, May 31, 2017

19

Wenger agrees to 2-year French Open 2017 Konta suffers shock defeat Arsenal contract at Roland Garros A rsenal boss Arsene Wenger has agreed a new two-year contract, extending his 21-year reign at the club.

Wenger and club owner Stan Kroenke met on Monday to determine the Frenchman’s future, with the decision relayed to directors at a Tuesday board meeting.

Arsenal are planning to make an official announcement on Wednesday.

The Gunners were fifth in the Premier League this season, the first time they have finished outside the top four since the Frenchman

B

ritish number one Johanna Konta suffered a shock defeat by world number 109 Hsieh Su-wei in the first round of the French Open.

Seventh seed Konta dominated the first set but eventually went down 1-6

season.

Konta, who is ranked eighth in the world, has also lost twice in qualifying in her five visits to Roland Garros.

Her day was summed up by the final game, in which she missed four chances to

times where I felt that she did play incredibly well.”

The Taiwanese player clinched a remarkable win when Konta’s return found the net after two hours and 15 minutes.

Arsene Wenger is set to be with Arsenal for another two years

Hsieh Su-wei beat Johanna Konta to earn her first win over a top-10 player

Arsenal fans marched calling for the resignation of Arsene Wenger before their FA Cup quarter-final win over Lincoln

joined in 1996.

They finished 18 points behind champions Chelsea, but beat the Blues 2-1 to win the FA Cup at Wembley on Saturday.

Wenger’s contract was set to finish at the end of the current campaign.

Wenger led the Gunners to three Premier League titles and four FA Cups in his first nine seasons in charge.

In 2003-04, he became the first manager since 188889 to lead a team through an entire top-flight season unbeaten.

But after winning the 2005 FA Cup, they had to wait another nine years - or 3,283 days - for their next silverware. It came as they beat Hull City to win the 2014 FA Cup, before winning the trophy again the following year.

Some Gunners fans turned on the 67-year-old Frenchman as a result of their league performances and they lost 10-2 on aggregate to Bayern Munich in the Champions League last 16 in March.

They finished the league season with five successive victories, but it was not enough to carry them above Liverpool to take the fourth and final Champions League

spot.

Wenger told BBC’s Football Focus on Saturday the criticism he has faced this season is “a disgrace” he will “never forget”.

Anti-Wenger banners were held aloft by Gunners fans in the closing stages of a 3-1 defeat at West Brom on 18 March, while in the first half two planes towed banners over the ground - one criticising the manager and the other supporting him.

After that loss, Wenger said he had made a decision on his future which he would announce “very soon”.

He faced significant criticism around that time, with former Blackburn and Celtic striker Chris Sutton telling BBC Radio 5 live on 20 March that Wenger was “an uncle who doesn’t want to leave the party” and was running a “dictatorship”.

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte, meanwhile, described Wenger as “one of the best managers in history”.

Arsenal have got a long way to go at the moment, they’re a long way behind.

If you ask me now whether Arsenal are going to be in the top four next season, I would say most probably not.

The only other example of a manager that decides

when and where he goes is Sir Alex Ferguson, but he was still winning league titles. Arsene Wenger was still winning FA Cups and until this season he had always got in the top four, but now that’s changed. (BBCSPORT)

7-6 (7-2) 6-4 to Taiwanese Hsieh.

Konta, 26, has yet to win a match in the main draw at Roland Garros after three successive first-round losses.

She will now head back to the UK and hope for more success in the grass-court

break back and stay in the match, one through some Hsieh brilliance and another thanks to the cruellest of net cords.“I think I definitely created some opportunities; I think I didn’t do well enough in necessarily converting them,” said Konta.

“But then there were

Konta’s exit means there are no British women left in the singles draw at Roland Garros, although Andy Murray and Kyle Edmund joined Aljaz Bedene in the men’s second round after winning their opening matches on Tuesday.

(BBCSPORT)

Jack Nicklaus on Tiger Woods’ latest trouble:

He needs our help T

iger Woods was the subject of sincere words of support from 18-time major winner Jack Nicklaus following his arrest on Monday.

Jack Nicklaus said Tiger Woods “needs our help” after being arrested on a DUI charge in Jupiter, Florida on Monday.

According to a probable cause affidavit released on Tuesday, via the Golf Channel, Woods’ black Mercedes was stopped in the roadway and the golfer “had to be woken up” by the police officer who came on the scene.

In a statement on Monday that followed reports of his arrest, the former world number one blamed the incident on an unexpected reaction to prescribed medications, add-

Tiger Woods (left) and Jack Nicklaus sharing a light moment

ing: “I want the public to know that alcohol was not involved.”

It was an unavoidable topic when 18-time major winner Nicklaus held the annual news conference ahead of the Memorial Tournament he hosts at

Muirfield Village in Dublin, Ohio.

Asked if he would like to comment on Woods, Nicklaus initially joked: “No, not really.”

However, he then voiced sincere support and concern while acknowledging he

does not know much about Woods latest episode.

“I feel bad for Tiger,” Nicklaus told reporters.

“Tiger’s a friend. He’s been great for the game of golf.

He needs our help. I wish him well.”

Woods has struggled with a series of back injuries and has been stuck at 14 major victories since 2008, and Nicklaus suggested the chances of him breaking his record haul have gone.

“Tiger, I always thought, was going to break my record,” Nicklaus said. “Did I enjoy watching him play?

Absolutely. Did I enjoy every time Tiger did something, my name was mentioned right beside it? It kept me relevant. It was as good for me as it was for him.” (Sportsmax)

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

wednESDAY, may 31, 2017

Rabada tops ODI bowling rankings K

agiso Rabada, South Africa’s 22-yearold pace sensation, has leapfrogged team-mate Imran Tahir to become the No. 1 ODI bowler in the world. The top-two one-day bowlers aside, South Africa go into the Champions Trophy with four of the top-ten batsmen in the format as well, as per the latest update to the ICC rankings. AB de Villiers lead the charts, while Quinton de Kock, Faf du Plessis and Hashim Amla complete the quartet.

Rabada climbed four spots following the threematch ODI series against England, in which he was the leading wicket-taker with seven wickets at 21.71 - including 4 for 39 in the

Kagiso Rabada has moved to the top of the ICC rankings for ODI bowlers

third game, which helped reduce England to 20 for 6 and an economy rate of 5.42.

Overall in 36 ODI innings since his debut in July 2015,

he has 64 wickets at 24.90 and an economy rate of 5.13.

Amla and de Kock were the second and third top scorers in the series, and

both move up on the rankings - de Kock from No. 6 to No. 4, and Amla from eleven to ten. De Villiers retained the No. 1 spot, while du Plessis and Tahir lost some ground on the table, falling to No. 2 and No. 6 respectively.

Top-10 ODI batsmen: 1 AB de Villiers, 2 David Warner, 3 Virat Kohli, 4 Quinton de Kock, 5 Joe Root, 6 Faf du Plessis, 7 Babar Azam and Martin Guptill, 9 Kane Williamson, 10 Hashim Amla.

Top-10 ODI bowlers: 1 Kagiso Rabada, 2 Imran Tahir, 3 Mitchell Starc, 4 Sunil Narine, 5 Josh Hazlewood, 6 Trent Boult, 7 Chris Woakes, 8 Mohammad Nabi, 9 Shakib Al Hasan, 10 Mitchell Santner. (Cricinfo)

New Zealand prevail in highscoring clash against Sri Lanka N

Martin Guptill

ew Zealand, led by Martin Guptill and Kane Williamson, overhauled Sri Lanka’s target of 357 with ease to complete a six-wicket victory in both teams’ final warm-up game at Edgbaston.

Guptill smashed 10 fours and five sixes in his 76-ball knock of 116 while Williamson followed that up with a 60-ball 88. Both batsmen subsequently decided to retire out - Guptill in the 29th and Williamson in the 32nd - but by then New Zealand were 101 runs away at a required run rate of less than six.

Earlier in the day, Sri Lanka’s batsmen fielded a batting-heavy outfit that p o s t e d 356 runs in their 50 overs.

U p u l Tharanga started the onslaught at the top, smashing 13 fours and three sixes to notch up a century. Kusal Mendis, at one drop, hammered seven fours and a six in his 50-ball 57 while Dinesh Chandimal - at two down- hit a quickfire 55.

It took Sri

Lanka 15 overs to get to 100, another 15 to get to 200 and only 12 more to get to 300.

That they managed to keep scoring at breakneck speed could well be attributed to their batting line-up. Of the nine batsmen used by them, only Nuwan Kulasekara’s primary skill was that of a bowler. New Zealand, too, used nine bowlers but only Corey Anderson (0-39) and left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner (0-34) went for less than six an over. Despite taking two wickets, Trent Boult leaked 47 runs in his five overs.

Tom Latham (44) was instrumental in providing New Zealand a brisk

start alongside Guptill with the pair adding 78 for the first wicket. Guptill and Williamson then took over, scoring 157 runs in 94 balls for the second wicket. Ross Taylor replaced Guptill with New Zealand at 235 for 2 in 29 overs, after which Neil Broom (37*) and Anderson - who reached his fifty with a six to finish the match - steered them home with 23 balls to spare. Of Sri Lanka’s seven bowlers, only Seekkuge Prasanna’s legspin managed to pick up any wickets. He finished with figures of 2 for 63 off his ten. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD Sri Lanka innings (50 overs maximum) N Dickwella† c McClenaghan b Southee 25 c Milne b WU Tharanga* McClenaghan 110 BKG Mendis run out (Boult) 57 LD Chandimal b de Grandhomme 55 NLTC Perera c †Latham b Milne10 MDKJ Perera c †Latham b Southee 38 S Prasanna c Broom b Boult 23 KMDN Kulasekara c Taylor b Boult 4 CK Kapugedera not out 15 Extras (b 2, lb 5, w 11, nb 1) 19 Total (8 wickets; 50 overs) 356 Did not bat: AD Mathews, DAS Gunaratne, PADLR Sandakan, SL Malinga, N Pradeep, RAS Lakmal Fall of wickets: 1-65 (Dickwella, 8.1 ov), 2-163 (Mendis, 23.5 ov), 3-212 (Tharanga, 31.4 ov), 4-237 (NLTC Perera, 34.3 ov), 5-305 (MDKJ Perera, 42.1 ov), 6-309 (Chandimal, 43.2 ov), 7-318 (Kulasekara, 45.5 ov), 8-356 (Prasanna, 49.6 ov) Bowling: TA Boult 5-0-47-2 (2w), AF Milne 8-0-48-1 (1w), TG Southee 8-0-48-2 (5w), MJ McClenaghan 7-0-54-1 (1w),

CJ Anderson 7-0-39-0 (2w), MJ Santner 6-0-34-0, JS Patel 6-048-0, JDS Neesham 1-0-15-0, C de Grandhomme 2-0-16-1 (1nb) New Zealand innings (target: 357 runs from 50 overs) MJ Guptill retired out 116 TWM Latham† lbw b Prasanna 44 KS Williamson* retired out 88 LRPL Taylor c Tharanga b Prasanna 11 NT Broom not out 37 CJ Anderson not out 50 Extras (b 3, lb 3, w 6, nb 1) 13 Total (4 wickets; 46.1 overs) 359 Did not bat: AF Milne, C de Grandhomme, JS Patel, JDS Neesham, L Ronchi, MJ McClenaghan, MJ Santner, TG Southee, TA Boult Fall of wickets 1-78 (Latham, 13.2 ov), 2-235 (Guptill, 29.0 ov), 3-263 (Williamson, 32.0 ov), 4-275 (Taylor, 35.3 ov) Bowling: KMDN Kulasekara 5-036-0 (1w), RAS Lakmal 7.1-0-62-0 (1nb, 1w), N Pradeep 6-0-37-0, S Prasanna 10-0-63-2 (1w), NLTC Perera 7-0-42-0 (1w), PADLR Sandakan 9-0-80-0 (2w), CK Kapugedera 2-33-0

Checkmate

Phases of Chess (con't) Phase 1: The Opening Con’t Once the Rooks are connected, King is safe, the Opening is completed.

Developing the pieces and finding long term safety for the King could be treated as the two most important tasks of the first phase of a chess game.

Jessica Clementson

Phase 2: The “Main Battle” for Every Chess Game Happens in the Middle Game The Middlegame starts when the players have brought out all of their pieces and are now looking for plans of attack on their opponent’s pawns and pieces, as well as defense of their own army In the Middlegame, coordinate the Pieces for Attack/ Defense Phase 3: The Final Stage of a Chess Game is the Endgame If the game does not end with a checkmate attack, tactics and “positional planning” can be used in the Middlegame to win material (enemy pieces). That material advantage can then be used to win in the Endgame either by winning even more material or by advancing and promoting a pawn Before Making a Move, a Chess Player Should: #1 Look for Checks!

The most important moves to consider are those which attack the enemy King. Though not all checks are good, you must be aware of all possible ways to give check. Because to miss a chance to check, is also to miss a chance to checkmate! #2 Look for Captures!

Though no capture without a check ever led to checkmate, to consider every capture is just as important.

Outside of checkmate, the most concrete advantage a player can have is a material one. You learned to count the attackers and defenders in every “doggy-pile”, and as you improve, you will learn that no capture should be overlooked. #3 Look for Queen Attacks!

Knowing every possible check and capture for your army is by far the most important thing to think about, but because the Queen is the most powerful piece – considering all possible ways to attack her is also critical!

After Your Opponent makes a Move: Why THAT Move?

Perhaps the only reason a chess player, of any level, ever loses a game is failure to ask and answer one crucial question: Why did my opponent move there and what is he/she trying to do to me?

Before Making a Move Look for Your Opponent’s...

Checks!

Building the essential habit of thinking about what your opponent would do next, starting with every check, capture and Queen attack, is what we plan to achieve .

1.e4.c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.c3 Nf6 4.Be2 from the Sicilian Defense.

This common trick has caught many “Pawn grabbing” players who don’t think about their opponent’s next move off-guard. The move 4...Nxe4? drops a piece after 5.Qa4+, forking the King on e8 and the Knight on e4. White will capture the helpless Knight next move…

Before Making a Move Look for Your Opponent’s...

Captures!

Before Making a Move Look for Your Opponent’s...

Queen Attacks!

Next week we will take a look at some Principles of Chess…

CLASSIFIED ADS wednESday, may 31, 2017 | www.guyanatimesgy.com

ACCOMMODATIONS Conferences and retreats – full service: Hotel, Catering & Facilities.

Aracari Resort WBD – 264-2946 Alex Wayne Weddings and anniversaries: Rental or full service: Banquet Hall & Catering. Aracari Resort 264-2946 Alex Wayne Aracari Hotel, WBD (Near Harbour Bridge) – All modern amenities, rates from $25. Phone 264-2946-8

FOR SALE For Sale One flat boat, Banga Mary Net, Cat Gut Net and Outboard Engine. Tel: 220-0376/225-9693

LAND for sale 1.5 Acre for housing development W.B.D. Tel: 658-0115

property for sale 6 bedrooms Parfait Harmonie, $17M negotiable – 656-7590, 663-3602

SALON / SPA COSMETOLOGY – FULL COURSE $100,000. TECHNICIAN $40,000.

Aracari Salon & Spa, WBD 264-3312, 600-3927

spirituality & ASTROLOGY TWO TIMES GOLD MEDALIST ASTROLOGER AND SPIRITUALIST FROM INDIA; IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS AND NOT GETTING SOLUTIONS FROM ANY ASTROLOGERS, ONCE MEET PANDIT GANESH TO GET ACCURATE REASONS, FOR ALL KINDS OF SPIRITUAL AND FAMILY PROBLEMS PANDIT SOLVES, ALSO PROBLEMS RELATED TO STRESS, LOVE OR FINANCIAL DIFFICULTY, FAMILY ARGUMENTS AND GETTING LOVED ONES BACK, HUSBAND AND WIFE PROBLEMS, HEALTH PROBLEMS, REMOVAL OF BLACK MAGIC, EVIL SPIRITS, VOODOO, WITCH CRAFT, BLOCKAGES, SPELLS ETC. LOCATION: LIGHT STREET BETWEEN 2ND AND 3RD STREET, ALBERTTOWN OPPOSITE THE GTT TOWER 600-0926 1. STAR ASTROLOGY AND PSYCHIC READER FROM: INDIA. ARE YOU DISAPPOINTED MEETING ASTROLOGERS AND NOT GETTING SOLUTIONS? THEN ONCE MEET INDIAN MOST POWERFUL SPIRITUALIST. 2. MASTER GURU RAGHVENDRA. YOUR PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE IN CONNECTION WITH COURT CASE, LOVE, EDUCATION, SICKNESS, MONEY, EVIL PROBLEM, BLOCKAGES IN LIFE AND MUCH MORE. FOR ALL YOUR PROBLEMS HE HAS THE SOLUTIONS, HE SPECIALIZES IN REMOVING BLACK MAGIC, EVIL SPIRITS, VOODOO, OBEAH, WITCH CRAFT AND GIVES YOU LIFE LONG PROTECTION. 3.

CONTACT: - 630-5073, 600-4096, ADDRESS: LOT 62 MON REPOS (NEXT TO THE MALL) E.C.D 1. SHIVA PARAVATHI ASTROLOGER FROM: INDIA. ARE YOU DISAPPOINTED MEETING ASTROLOGERS AND NOT GETTING SOLUTIONS? THEN ONCE MEET INDIAN MOST POWERFUL SPIRITUALIST. 2. PRIEST NARASIMHA. YOUR PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE IN CONNECTION WITH COURT CASE, LOVE, EDUCATION, SICKNESS, MONEY, EVIL PROBLEM, BLOCKAGES IN LIFE AND MUCH MORE. FOR ALL YOUR PROBLEMS HE HAS THE SOLUTIONS, HE SPECIALIZES IN REMOVING BLACK MAGIC, EVIL SPIRIT, VOODOO, OBEAH, WITCH CRAFT AND GIVES YOU LIFE LONG PROTECTION. 3.

CONTACT: 682-7439, 650-0700.

ADDRESS: LOT 12 GT&T STREET ANNA REGINA ESSEQUIBO COAST (OPPOSITE GT&T OFFICE)

WORLD FAMOUS INDIAN PALMIST AND SPIRITUALISTT ASTROLOGER, AT EAST BANK GROVE. MEET HIM ONCE FOR ACCURATE PREDICTIONS, FIXING PROBLEMS LIKE HEALTH AND STRESS, ENEMIES, JEALOUSY, RELATIONSHIPS, FININCIALS AND GET LOVED ONES BACK. HE CAN HANDLE AND REMOVE BLACK MAGIC, VOODOO, OBEAH, WITCHCRAFT. FOR BETTER RESULTS, CONTACT 664-2505 OR 609-4493. LOCATED AT 150 TIME SQUARE STREET, NORTHWEST GROVE, EAST BANK DEMERARA. THE MOST POWERFUL ASTROLOGER AND SPIRTUALIST FROM INDIA. If you are having problems, he has the solutions. He solves problems related to love, relationships, happiness, financial, family arguments, getting lover back, husband and wife problems, removal of black magic, evil spirits, voodoo, witchcraft, blockages. Location: Light Street, Alberttown, between 2nd and 3rd Streets, Opposite the GTT Tower. Telephone number: 6524444 / 600-0926 Dutch spiritual healing in removing evil spirit, bad luck, evil sickness, spells, reuniting lovers and prosperity to business.

Call: 612-6417, 687-5653 spiritualist.

Surinamese Resolving all problems. Money, love, blockage etc. Call 2236834/600-7719.

Suriname’s Astrology, Palmist and Hindustani Spiritual Healer, solve all purpose problems, 100% confidential guaranteed.

Phone: 602-8997 SPIRITUAL HEALING: REMOVE BLOCKAGES, VOODOO, HEXCURSE, BLACK MAGIC, SPELL, BUSINESS, UPLIFTMENT, PREGNANCY, LOVE & MARRIAGE PROBLEMS, CLEARANCE, ETC. Contact: 612-1975, 683-5228

taxi services GR Taxi, 24 hours. Phone: 2257878, 219-5000 or 227-2100 Pepe’s Taxi Service, Alexander Village. Tel: 227-3728/ 225-4993.

Operational Hours: 6:00am to 10:00pm

TO LET OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT 12x12 SQUARE FEET, WELL GRILLED WINDOWS AND DOORS, LIGHT, WATER, WASHROOM AND PARKING FACILITIES AVAILABLE. LOT 60 BRICKDAM TELE: 226-1836 Three storey 75ft x 30ft. building/bond, Open floors, 2 offices, 2 washrooms, driveways. 25B Princess Street, Charlestown. Tel: 223-0654/225-0605

VACANCIES Marketing firm seeking Content Writers. Excellent communication skills (great writers only please).

College diploma/degree/journalist.

Experience preferred. Virtual position - work from home via Skype, GoToMeeting, email, texting, etc.

Modern PC, good internet & power w/ UPC back-up and/or generator is mandatory. M-F 8:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. EST. Salary $100,000/ month.

Email resumes to careers@consultpr.net.

VEHICLES FOR SALE For sale: 1 Toyota Fielder wagon for sale $1.6 negotiable. 656-7590

WANTED Contract cars to work with Taxi Service in Alexander Village. Tel: 618-3712/ 225-4993

sports

21

Blake expecting high security

at World Championships F

ollowing last week’s terror attack in Manchester, England, president of the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA), Dr Warren Blake, is expecting heightened security measures when the country’s athletes arrive in that country ahead of the August 4-13 World Championships in London.

Jamaica’s track and field stars will begin arriving in the country on July 22, for their pre-championships preparations in Birmingham, England, some 83 miles away from the attack, which happened during an Ariana Grande concert at the Manchester Arena.

The championships has gathered significant attention across the world given the fact that it will serve as Usain Bolt’s final appearance at a major championship, and Blake says the local body is putting its trust in the

London organisers and security mechanism, as far as the team’s safety is concerned.

“We normally have good security on arrival. We expect heightened security for the camp that starts on July 22 to August 1 at the Birmingham University in the UK,” Blake told The Gleaner yesterday.

Blake underlined the importance of the pre-championships camp, while noting that things are well in place.

“The training camp has been in place ever since I took over as president, and it is working by building camaraderie among the athletes in preparation for global events,” Blake said. “Everything is in place for the training camp, as all the athletes will be there, unless there are special cases.”

A suicide bomber detonated an im-

Dr Warren Blake

provised explosive device packed with nuts, bolts and other shrapnel in the foyer of the Manchester Arena during a concert featuring American singer Ariana Grande on May 22 at around 10:30 p.m. UK time.

Twenty-two persons were killed in the blast, which was declared by the Greater Manchester Police to be a terrorist attack and which has been identified as the deadliest attack in the United Kingdom since the July 2005 London bombings. (Jamaica Gleaner)

French Open bans Hamou over attempts to kiss reporter on live TV T ennis player Maxime Hamou has been banned by the organisers of the French Open after he tried to kiss a female reporter repeatedly during a live TV interview.

The French player, 21, kissed journalist Maly Thomas while holding her around her neck and shoulders, despite her efforts to duck away.

The French Tennis Federation (FTT) condemned the “reprehensible behaviour” and ordered an investigation.

Hamou has apologised for his actions.

The incident happened after he was knocked out of the first round of the competition on Monday.

It is the latest case to provoke allegations of harassment of female sports reporters.

Several anchors and commentators on the Eurosport programme Avantage Leconte laughed and clapped as it unfolded.

The episode drew ire on social media, including from French politician Cécile Duflot.

“He kisses her by force, she tries to get away, he holds her by the neck and everyone... laughs #tired,” the Green MP wrote on Twitter (in French).

Quoted by the Huffington Post France, Ms Thomas described the player’s actions as “frankly unpleasant”.

“If I hadn’t been live on

air, I would have punched him.”

In a statement on Facebook on Tuesday, Hamou said: “I offer my deep apologies to Maly Thomas if she feels hurt or shocked by my attitude during her interview.

“I have just spent a magnificent week here at Roland Garros... and I expressed my overflow of enthusiasm crudely towards Maly, who I know and respect sincerely.

“I’m still learning every day from my mistakes to beThe incident happened after Maxime Hamou lost to Uruguay’s come a better tennis playPablo Cuevas at the French Open er and a better person.”(BBCSPORT)

800m champion Archer boosted by SMALTA

J

oanna Archer, currently the 800m champion and a student of West Demerara Secondary School, got an added boost Tuesday when she received sponsorship from SMALTA which is distributed by ANSA McAL Trading Ltd. The aspiring young athlete is slated to compete in the South American Juniors Games which will be hosted in Guyana on June 3 and 4.

Sean Abel, Brand Coordinator, said that, “We are happy to assist such a talented individual who I know will make us proud not only at these games but beyond.”

Archer is also a CSEC student, who is sitting eight subjects.

Brand Coordinator Sean Abel hands over sponsorship to aspiring athlete Joanna Archer

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

wednESdAY, may 31, 2017

Hosting of inter-county U-19 Wilson comes clean tournament in May-June ‒ fmr GFF President admits to contract with players

F

ormer President (ag) of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Franklin Wilson whilst welcoming and respecting the members of the Federation's right to be in the know concerning information surrounding the Guyana versus Mexico match played in Houston, Texas, USA is adamant that all relevant information pertaining to that match is in the possession of the GFF. According to Wilson, match fees and bonuses agreed to between the players and the GFF have been paid to them.

What is outstanding to the players is the agreed amount of 12 per cent of monies accruing to the GFF after expenses.

Therefore the former G F F President noted there is no need to expend much n e e d e d dollars to unearth w h a t transpired when the facts that can lead to closure on this issue are already accessible and in the possession of the GFF. Closure of this would be a plus for all and sundry and Guyana as a whole.

Wilson, in responding to

the decision taken by the GFF members at the just concluded congress based on a motion proposed and seconded by two Elite League clubs believes that it is time for the matter to be concluded and if possible the requisite monies owed to the players be paid, based on the affordability of the GFF. He observed that it was not the desire of the then GFF to just move the game, but it was a number of factors which resulted in such a decision being made, including meagre local funding, no funding from the then Government, lack of resources to host the game along with the fact that Guyana had already lost out on the opportunity to advance further in the competition as well as the necessity for the Federation to supplement its income to meet expenses and indebtedness already incurred.

W i l s o n noted that the contracts that were entered into with Sponsports, the letter from FIFA granting permission for the game to proceed as well as one from the US Soccer Federation giving approval for the game to be played in their jurisdiction

‒ another meagre decision by GCB, says Delvon McEwan

W

Former GFF President Franklin Wilson

were sent to His Excellency, President Donald Ramotar and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Dr. Frank Anthony.

The GFF is also in possession of information on the sums actually received in cash. In addition, this information as well as documentation regarding the expenditure on the Men’s Senior National Football team during the period January to November 2012 was shared with the media at a press conference held at the GFF in December 2012.

Wilson disclosed that he and the current GFF President would have had discussions on the matter before and he is urging that wisdom and good sense be allowed to prevail.

eather permitting the second round of action in the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB)/ Hand-In-Hand Insurance Under-19 50 over inter-county Tournament is expected to get underway today from 9:30h at two venues in Demerara.

That is subsequent to both first round matches being abandoned due to heavy rainfall in the city on Monday.

In the second round fixtures, Essequibo and the National U-17 Select Squad will clash at Police Sports Club Ground while archrivals Demerara and Berbice will be involved in a keen contest at the National Stadium.

However, after the entire first round of matches were abandoned there were many critics who blasted the schedule for the tournament, noting it should have been hosted prior to

GCB’s TDO Colin Stuart

rain, there could be some dry weather which we can capitalise on and the players can be fairly assessed by the selectors to select the national team,” Stuart, told this publication on Wednesday, May 3.

He also highlighted that they (GCB officials) will be setting matches as much as

calls to Stuart proved futile.

The scheduling of the tournament is one that the incumbent GCB administration should have taken into consideration and it is just another flaw on their behalf.

Like it was when they planned the Jaguars Franchise League 50-over segment for last December and then subsequently blamed the players and adverse weather for the team’s substandard performance at this year’s Regional List A tournament.

In addition, Stuart’s claim to have provision so there will be no matches and CSEC exams clashing is inconceivable because of the scope of the exams and the limited time owing to GCB’s meagre decision that is afforded to host the tournament, so a team could be selected in time for the Regional U-19 tournament which gets underway on

Schools’ Development Officer & Youth Development Coach named I n an effort to continue development of football, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) added two new officers, both former players of the national programme – a Schools’ Development Officer and a Youth Development Coach.

Ceon Bristol and Shurwin Forde were named the Schools’ Development Officer (SDO) and the Youth Development Coach (YDC) respectively and are part of the new youth development strategy employed by the Technical Department of the GFF. “This is the first time ever the GFF Technical Department has appointed a SDO and it is a key position within the brand new youth development strategy,” explained Ian Greenwood, GFF’s Technical Director.

“Their roles will focus on the development and oversight of all GFF School Football. This will include developing both in-curriculum and extra-curriculum Schools Football programmes. The SDO will also be actively recruiting teachers for the GFF’s Coach Education courses,” Greenwood continued.

Bristol, who was seconded from the Ministry of Education, brings a wealth

After the rains: a ground in the county of Demerara

GFF’s Youth Development Coach (YDC), Shurwin Forde

of experience and knowledge from the school system and the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU). He participated in a number of GFF Youth National Teams.

Meanwhile, Shurwin Forde will be operating as a YDC at the GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centre (ATC) in Berbice, with the primary role of teaching the game to the youngsters following the National Playing and Coaching Curriculum.

Greenwood noted: “It’s fantastic to have another former national team player employed by the GFF Technical Department to

GFF’s Schools’ Development Officer (SDO), Ceon Bristol

pass on their knowledge and passion from the game to our young players. We want to continue opening the doors to current and former national team players who want to work within our Development Programmes, but of course they have to have a passion for coaching and a willingness to learn.

As we know not every former player can be an effective teacher of the game, but Shurwin has been involved in GFF Technical Training so he understands what is required in his role.”

the May-June period (the rainy season) and secondly, to avoid clashes with cricketers/ students studying for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC).

In the May 5 edition of the Guyana Times Sport, there was an article headline: ‘May/June rain a major concern for cricket associations’.

Former West Indies player and Territorial Development Officer (TDO) of the GCB, Colin Stuart was interviewed about the impact the rain would have on scheduled matches for the May/June period, especially the hosting of the GCB U-19 inter-county tournament which was to commence in the latter part of May, a period where much rain is also expected.

“We expect some challenges in terms of getting the Under-19 inter-county to run-off; despite the

practical to not clash with exams but cautioned that if there are clashes they will be making special provisions.

However, with the prediction at 61 per cent that there will be rain in Demerara today, the second round action is almost unlikely to take place.

Therefore it will leave just the third round on Thursday before the final on Friday.

With the weather patterns predicted for the remainder of the week, it is doubtful any of these matches will be played.

Thus this publication decided to contact the Chairman of the Competition Committee of the GCB, Colin Europe, who said he is uncertain whether the matches will be rescheduled. He said the best person to provide the necessary information would be Stuart. However, several

July 21 in St. Kitts.

The best venue to host the remaining matches would be the National Stadium; however, once it continues to rain it would not serve any purpose.

Once these matches are not rescheduled then it would allow limited or no opportunities for players who have worked tirelessly on their individual game to gain selection to the national team and a shot at selection to the West Indies U-19 team. It will serve as a disadvantage for the unfamiliar players.

How the Board will get through the tournament is quite interesting, but this comes as another poor decision by the GCB to host the tournament at this time and not at a prior date as it used to be under previous administrations and even this incumbent one in its initial days.

guyanatimesgy.com

wednesDAY, may 31, 2017

23

Guyana National U-15 team departing for SQUALIGA in Saint Martin W

hile encampment for the National U-15 team began on Sunday last in New Amsterdam, Berbice with a 25-man squad preparing for the ‘SOUALIGA’ Tournament in Saint Martin from the 1st- 5th June, the team is set to depart tomorrow (June 1st) The SQUALIGA tournament is serving as part of the national team’s preparatory activity for the CONCACAF U-15 tourna-

ment scheduled for August.

The squad includes players from six of the GFF-ScotiaBank Academy Training Centres (ATCs): Region One (1); Georgetown (6); East Demerara (7); East Bank Demerara (2); Bartica (1); Berbice (5) and Rupununi (3). There are three goalkeepers, seven defenders, eight midfielders and seven forwards Also included in the squad is U-13 player Kamani Milne, a forward

from the Berbice ATC as well as Ronaldo Rodrigues, Troni Semple and the appointed captain Joshua Braithwaite.

Rodrigues, who hails from Santa Rosa, Moruca, said that he’s proud to be participating in his first international assignment. He also said his community, which has been very supportive of him, was happy following his first camp in April, 2017.

Meanwhile Troni

Semple, who hails from the East Coast ATC and plays for Buxton United FC is on his third national duty, having represented at both the U-15 and U-17 levels respectively.

He spoke about the benefits of the continuous encampment conducted by the GFF

Blairmont CC honour players ‒ Jawahir, Karim cop top awards

W

hen West Bank Berbice Club, Blairmont Cricket Club, recently held its annual award ceremony last Thursday evening, it was Kevon Jawahir and Javed Karim, who were named the most outstanding senior player of the year and senior youth player of the year respectively.

The 21-year-old Kevon Jawahir, who copped the batsman-of-the-year and all-rounder-of-the year awards, was also named cricketer-of-the-year in the senior category.

Meanwhile, teenage sensation and national youth player Javed Karim, 17, was recognised as the most disciplined player of the club as well as the top senior youth batsman, best all-rounder and player of the year.

National Under-15 Captain Marvan Prashad and Seon Glasgow Jr, who were the club’s top junior youth batsman and all-rounder respectively, received bursary awards from Republic Bank for their efforts.

Other senior awardees are Waqar Hassan, bowler of the year, most improved player Derrick McCalmon and emerging player Martin Singh.

While Keyon Gangoo and national player Nigel Deodat were awarded senior and junior youth bowler of the year respectively.

Zameer Inshan and Farouk Subhan were the most improved players for the youths.

The packed audience included Region Five ViceChairman, Rion Peters, Region five Chambers PRO Pradeep Bachan, CEO of Rose Hall Youths and Sports Club Hilbert Foster, Human Resources Manager Sherwyn Steward, national coach Julian Moore, club members, sponsors and other cricket officials. President of the club, Shabeer Baksh talked about the numerous challenges faced by the club

Hand-in-Hand representative Abbensa Jalim handing over a trophy to Javed Karim

Marvan Prashad receiving a bursary award from Republic Bank representative Denzil Jordan

on its road to success.

He informed that the intention of the club is to invest more in youth development for them to be better cricketers and individuals of the community.

Baksh advised the youngsters to stay in school, to educate themselves, to be smart cricketers and be intelligent in all their other endeavours.

He went on to tell the budding cricketers to focus on their talent and game and not attach themselves to any negatives. “The club has risen to ratings of be-

ing unmatched by any other club in the West Berbice area and has been amongst some of the better clubs in Guyana,” Baksh said.

Guest speaker, Region five Vice Chairman Rion Peters, praised the BCC on its remarkable achievements since the club was resuscitated, calling it a model organisation, which every other club and national sport organisation should emulate.

Hilbert Foster encouraged those involved in operations at the club to continue their work in de-

veloping cricket and advised the youths of the positives and negatives of society.

The club also presented international commentator Inderjeet Persaud with an honorable membership for his outstanding contribution toward the growth of the club. Retired cricketers Rudolph Moses Doodnauth and Hoolsaram Anil Lalsa were awarded for their service and performance in the development of the game in Region Five.The three umpires from West Berbice ‒ Ali, Moses and Johnson who are members of the Berbice Umpire Association were also recognised.

The club also praised the efforts of the following sponsors and individuals for all the contributions to the development of the club: Bank DIH, GTT, Republic Bank Ltd, Massy Group of Companies, Handin-Hand, New Building Society, Big B’s- Baksh Restaurant, Basil-Rosignol Mall, Hardat Beverage Depot, A&A Variety Store, Imran Barber Shop, Extensa Tec, Baksh Travel Service, Berbice River Bridge Company, Arshad Jewellery, Sign Arts, Region Five Chambers, Green’s Massive, Jerry Karim, Omesh Prashad, Rajiv Bisnauth, Sean Devers, Avenash Ramzam, Samuel Whyte, Akeem Green, Rickey Moses, Imran Sakoor, Anil Beharry, Jaipaul Heeralall, Richard Gangaram, Romel Jagroop, Julien Moore, Colin Strut, Sherwyn Stewart, Richardo Bachan, Adrian Amsterdam, Umpire Somwaru, Zaheer and Imran Moakan, Hilbert Foster, Carl Moore, Monty Lynch, Mr Hyles, Mohamed Samad Baksh, Devindra Lalsa, Mr Ramdhan, Anil Sukra, Mark Singh, Zameer Baksh, Mr Somwaru, Mr Hassan, Babita Deodat, Inderjeet Persaud, Nigel Trotz, Rudolph Doodnauth,Munesh Persaud, Taahir Yusuf, etc.

Technical Departmentand how it has helped him to develop his game.

The skipper, Joshua Braithwaite said it’s a great feeling to lead the national team as it gives him a chance to “lead from the front” and “it was one of his goals.”

Braithwaite expressed optimism at his team’s

chances in the SOUALIGA Tournament; “I expect the team to win this time as we’ve been together for a long time. This is the fourth camp that the national programme has had for us and I think this time, we won’t be having any excuse; I think we should win this time.”

The squad, which is managed by Bryan Joseph, who is assisted by Challus Mc Kinnon, will be reduced to a 16-man travelling team following encampment, which ends today. The team is scheduled to depart tomorrow.

The SOUALIGA Tournament will feature nine other territories: Anguilla, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Tortola, Barbados, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Martinique and St Thomas.

South American Youth Championships 2017

Brazil, 5 other teams to arrive today

Compton Caesar, Guyana’s best hope for a gold medal

S

ix teams will be arriving today as the South American Youth Championships beckon closer. Contingents from Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Bolivia and Colombia will arrive later today and will be welcomed by the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri, from where they will be taken to the Ramada/ Princess International Hotel at the Games Village.

The South American Youth Championships are being hosted by Guyana at the Leonora Synthetic Track on June 3 and 4. This is the first time that Guyana is hosting an international track and field meet of this calibre as 359 athletes from 13 countries will be competing for medals across a number of events, including the Steeplechase, Hurdles and Pole Vault, events

which Guyanese will have a chance to see.

Guyana’s hopes of medalling at the games rest largely on the “fastest U-20 sprinter in the Caribbean”, Compton Caesar who recently copped gold at the CARIFTA Games along with Triple Jumper Chantoba Bright, U-17 athlete Daniel Williams, distance runner Claudrice Mckoy and Anfernee Headecker.

In the non-traditional events, Guyana will be represented by debutant hurdlers Hosea Glenn and Terrence Fraser in the 400 Meter hurdles while Ronaldo Wishart, Nigel Gonsalves and Rondell Newton will seek glory in the 3000m Steeplechase.

Tickets to the Games cost $500 and Guyanese are urged to come out and support the young athletes as they seek to make history this weekend.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31, 2017

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Pg 23

Guyana National U-15 team departing for SQUALIGA in Saint Martin The National U-15 team that will participate in the SQUALIGA tournament in Saint Martin

Pg 23

Pg 21

Blairmont CC honour players ‒ Jawahir, Karim cop top awards Awardees pose for a photo opportunity after the award ceremony

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, News Hotliine: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Sport: sport@guyanatimesgy.com Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 SALES AND MARKETING - lezas@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.