Guyana times november 21 ,2017

First Children’s Forum hosted P7

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

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Issue No. 3399

PRICE

Sale of GuySuCo properties

GuySuCo 'valuators' to be selected by mid-December

Page 3

…reps from PricewaterhouseCoopers, Ernst & Young, and Deloitte in Guyana

Newly-recruited Foreign Service Officers conclude orientation programme Page 10

Director of the Foreign Service Institute, Ambassador Ronald Austin (front centre) with the newly-recruited FSOs

In bid to deter smuggling

Page 2

Alcohol, tobacco products to now carry Excise Tax Stamps

…GRA outlines stiff penalties for non-compliant importers, retailers

AFC “desperate to retain relevance” – PPP Page 16

“Saga” execution

Implicated cop remains in custody Page 15

…charges yet to be instituted

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

9 women P10 entrepreneurs to benefit from WINC AP mentorship

4 youths P8 remanded for multiple gang-related robbery charges

Auto supply dealers urged to adhere to laws, best practices P5

Man freed of child rape charge P5

Youman Nabi to be observed on Dec 1

P16

2

news

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

In bid to deter smuggling

Alcohol, tobacco products to now carry Excise Tax Stamps ‌GRA outlines stiff penalties for non-compliant importers, retailers

F

ollowing the launch of the Excise Tax Stamp programme a few weeks ago, Customs Officers of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) have already placed the first set of Excise Tax Stamps on imported alcohol at Kings Liquor Outlet.

According to the GRA, this process has been implemented to ensure that all duties and taxes are paid on imported alcohol and tobacco and to verify that these products are legal and safe to consume.

As such, all "importers and retailers of alcohol and tobacco products are required to stamp each bottle of alcohol (excluding beers)

A GRA officer demonstrating how the Excise Stamps will be affixed to alcoholic products

and cigarette packs", the Authority outlined.

The GRA says it has

teamed up with Canadian Bank Note (CBN) to reduce the amount of alcohol and tobacco smuggled through Guyana’s porous borders.

The CBN has committed to designing, producing and shipping stamps to Guyana.

According to Deputy Commissioner of Excise Stamp and Environmental Levy, Rohan Beekhoo, the stamp is clearly identifiable with a host of security features such as metallic gold ink, heavy ink deposits in-

Stamped alcohol from the launch of the Excise Stamp Programme

herent to the security printing processes, etc.

Additionally, Beekhoo pointed out that officers will be equipped with hand-held scanners to verify whether or not the stamp is authentic, if it was applied to the right product and whether all duties and taxes were paid.

The GRA, in a statement, said self-adhesive tobacco and alcohol stamps will incur a cost of $8 and $16 per stamp respectively.

"Customs Officers have started verification checks to businesses, importers and persons selling these products to determine existing inventories before beginning the stamping process. The officers will be requesting documents and supporting evidence to corroborate that the items were legally imported.

Once they are satisfied that the full payment of taxes was made, payment for the stamps will be facilitated at

GRA Headquarters cashier counter," said the GRA. Moreover, the Revenue Authority cautioned that failure to pay the relevant duties and taxes and neglecting to stamp the products "will incur penalties ranging from 300 [per cent] of the tax value to five years' incarceration".

The GRA is urging all importers to register with the agency and indicate the amount of stamps required.

news

3

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

Sale of GuySuCo properties

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

GuySuCo 'valuators' to be selected by mid-December

Tuesday, November 21 – 05:00h-06:30h and Wednesday, November 22 – 05:00h-06:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, November 21 – 05:35h-07:05h and Wednesday, November 22 – 06:05h-07:35h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

…reps from PricewaterhouseCoopers, Ernst & Young, and Deloitte in Guyana

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery and heavy rain showers will prevail throughout the day, while partly cloudy conditions and thundery showers are expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: From North-easterly to East North-easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 05:47h and 17:57h reaching maximum heights of 2.54 metres and 2.63 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 11:33h and 23:57h reaching minimum heights of 0.70 metre and 0.59 metre respectively.

Representatives from Ernst & Young

Representatives from Deloitte

s Government moves ahead with plans to privatise and diversify the sugar industry, three firms who met the deadline for tender for International Financial Services Provider all made presentations to the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) evaluation team.

Head of the Special Purpose Unit (SPU) under NICIL, Colvin Heath-London said the

tion of sugar into their existing operations and product mix.

According to the Head, companies that are in rum production, other beverage manufacturing, and food processing, for example, would be ideal as potential operators of some of the current GuySuCo assets.

While factories could be sold to potential operators and inves-

A

According to a statement from the SPU on Monday, both GAWU and NAACIE expressed support for the Unit’s efforts to keep the estates operational in the interest of the economy and the workers.

The unions also expressed concern over the reported moving of equipment from the estates set for privatisation and diversification, and urged the SPU to quickly safeguard the assets to ensure the best pos-

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2017

LOTTERY NUMBERS N

02

08 18

19

23 28

20 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2017

DAILY MILLIONS 01 09 11 13 22 LUCKY 3 6 7 1

9

Afternoon Draw

6

1

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

03

04

06

12

16 18 21

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

Representatives from PricewaterhouseCoopers

second stage in the process of selecting an International Financial Services Provider was conducted on Monday at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown. The SPU is expected to announce a selection by mid-December, he said.

The selected International Services Provider would be conducting the valuation of all assets related to the sugar estates up for privatisation and diversification, in addition to advisory, financial, and other related services. The three firms that met the October 30 deadline for submissions and made presentations are: PricewaterhouseCoopers, Ernst & Young, and Deloitte.

Following the presentations, Heath-London said they were “all very engaging and the firms all have the international and regional experience as expected”.

Each of the firms included persons with substantial experience in sugar diversification and privatisation in the Region, and as such, the dialogue was rigorous and engaging.

The SPU Head also indicated that the other preparations were on track to have the assets ready for privatisation and/or diversification.

The SPU has been meeting with the management of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) as well as with other industry stakeholders, including the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) and the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial, and Industrial Employees (NAACIE).

sible deal for these estates and the workers and communities they support.

The SPU also met with executives of the Private Sector Commission (PSC).

The SPU has said it was interested in companies, both local and international, that could integrate the produc-

tors, lands will not be sold but could be leased.

The Opposition has since said that the SPU, set up by the Administration in order to sell assets belonging to GuySuCo, is nothing but a vehicle for corruption that completely bypasses the established privatisation procedures and the sale of State assets.

4

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesDAY, november 21, 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

Observing World Hello Day today

T

oday (November 21, 2017) is the occasion of the 45th annual World Hello Day. The objective of the occasion is to say hello to at least 10 people during the day. The message is for world leaders to use communication rather than force to settle conflicts.

For many persons, World Hello Day may sound extremely basic, as it encourages us to take the opportunity to simply greet people, and to recognise how important simple communication is in our daily lives. The story of how it came to be, however, is a long and interesting one.

World Hello Day was founded in 1973 by Brian McCormack, a PhD graduate of Arizona State University, and Michael McCormack, a graduate of Harvard University, in response to the Yom Kippur War. The McCormack brothers mailed 1360 letters, in seven languages, to Government leaders worldwide to encourage participation in the first World Hello Day. Since that time, World Hello Day has been observed by people in 180 countries.

Any person can participate in World Hello Day simply by greeting 10 people or more. This demonstrates the importance of personal communication for preserving peace, and is supposed to send a message of openness and goodwill to others. The observance began in response to the conflict between Egypt and Israel in the fall of 1973.

People around the world use the occasion as an opportunity to express their concern for world peace. Beginning with a simple greeting on World Hello Day, their activities send a message to leaders, encouraging them to use communication rather than force to settle conflicts. In its first year, World Hello Day gained the support of 15 countries. As a global event, World Hello Day joins local participation in a global expression of peace.

Thirty-one winners of the Nobel Peace Prize are among the people who have noted World Hello Day’s value as an instrument for preserving peace and as an occasion that makes it possible for anyone in the world to contribute to the process of creating peace. Among other supporters are almost 100 authors, entertainers, and world leaders.

The creators of the holiday hoped this small gesture alone would demonstrate how communication can be instrumental in resolving disputes and preventing conflicts.

Many take it a step further; they use it as a time to reflect on someone important they have lost touch with, for one reason or another. This may be an important person in their lives they have fallen out with over something that is perhaps not quite worth it. Time tends to be a great healer, so if enough time has passed from the conflict, they would be able to analyse the situation and all of its aspects, seeing their own faults and wrongdoings as well as those of the other party, and maybe it’s time to put the conflict to rest?

Many people do not know how good it actually feels to admit that they were in the wrong and say sorry – instead, they see such behaviour as a display of weakness, when it is actually a display of strength and confidence. People also often make the mistake of thinking that the other person will lose respect if they apologise to them, and this too is incorrect. Most people tend to give more respect for being able to admit the wrong, than if you decide to stubbornly hold on to your convictions after being proven incorrect.

It may seem a bit daunting at first, but if the person or situation is important enough, it will always be worth the struggle to make the first move and extend a hand in a gesture of peace.

Given the existing tensions in our own country Guyana, it would be remiss of the citizens not to see the significance of this day, even if it appears trivial. The message is universal.

Why not use this day and those that follow as a catalyst for improving national communication as well?

As the Miss Universe preliminary competitions heat up in Las Vegas, Guyana’s representative to the pageant, Rafieya Husain, is optimistic that she would make it to the finals, set for November 26 in the USA. As always obtains, the Miss Universe Organisation has launched its online voting, which allows fans of the delegates to cast votes for their favourite contestants. Online voters can vote up to 10 times a day. With this in mind, Rafieya is counting on the votes of her countrymen, which can ultimately contribute to her being named in the top 15 in this highly competitive pageant. Fans can go to the page https://missuniverse.votenow.tv/_ ga=2.105336714.860686723.1511201395-2040904094.1503949495 to cast their votes

Celebration of International Men’s Day was a success Dear Editor, In observance of International Men’s Day, which was celebrated globally on November 19, 2017, the Social Protection Ministry, in collaboration with the National Community Policing Executive, hosted a “Salute to Men”, which was a historic and enlightening event that the undersigned was pleased to attend. This experience at the Guyana Police Force Training College, coordinated by Pastor Diego Alphonso under the auspices of Minister Amna Ally, was a most colourful, inspiring and excellent programme that has left an impression on the hearts of hundreds of Guyanese, especially the boys and men who gathered. From the dancing of the young men from the Outreach

Ministries International Winners’ Cathedral to the motivational men talk to the extent of the presentation by the ‘good’ soldier, the programme was filled with energy and vitality.

Surprisingly, even yours truly did a song for the crowd, Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” and received most favourable applause with audience participation. It was an exhibition of the talents, skills and abilities that men possess.

Editor, it was an honour to see the dynamism and passion of Pastor Diego and to witness in the audience, Minister Ally totally absorbed in the event ,staying through from 3pm until after 7pm when the event was finished. Prior to this, there was also a television recording at NCN where my

fellow panellists: Dr Mark Constantine and Kester Deane and I discussed fatherhood, responsibility of men to family, society and the universe. It was a clarion call to the fathers who left to return and care for their children. We also highlighted the importance of men in raising their children and how it is downplayed many times. We reminded them that they chose by their “free will” to make the child and that they should counsel, guide and teach their children even if they are not around, to be an example and a bastion of strength.

The television programme, which was hosted by Pastor Alphonso, was conducted most professionally. This writer is pleased to have been invited to participate, and take this opportunity

to offer my support to any similar agency or NGO like the Gender Affairs Bureau; anything that is positive for our country and our youths.

I volunteer my time for any such activity in the future by any government in power.

I wish once again to compliment the Minister for her timely remarks and interest in social protection and for highlighting the importance of men and women in upbringing children.

International Men’s Day like International Women’s Day should be celebrated every day for a better society and a wonderful world tomorrow.

Yours sincerely, Hajji Roshan Khan National Chairman Universal Peace Federation Guyana Chapter

Noise nuisance continues to affect residents in Region 6 Dear Editor, The noise nuisance continues unabatedly in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), especially in the Upper Corentyne area, and what is worst is that (a senior Police official) in the Region is busy carrying out the functions of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), by handing out permission to a few select persons.

It has been mentioned by a letter writer (Ms Amrita Dhanai) to the press that everything sells, from the cradle to the grave, by these mobile vendors with vehicles using heavy-duty 1200-watt amplifiers to blast the residents from their beds and disrupt their activities as these insensitive advertisers go merrily along their ways, filling their pockets and counting their profits.

Ms Dhanai outlined the

EPA regulations which clearly state that it is the function of the EPA to control and manage sound emissions by setting the permissible level of activities such as entertainment, transportation, construction, commercial and other activities. The regulations clearly stipulate that persons who are engaged in the above-mentioned activities need to apply for Environmental Authorisation so that the EPA can monitor their activities.

How is it that a senior Police official in Region Six has the authority to grant ‘authorisation’ to a select few to use those intolerable and deafening equipment? Clearly this police official has overstepped his legal authority and function, and has usurped the role of the EPA. How can the Minister of Public Security tolerate this? This Police rank

has other important functions to perform rather than breaking the law to facilitate his cronies.

I was attending a one-year anniversary death function in the Upper Corentyne and at 4:00pm while the Pastor was fully engrossed in the midst of his sermon, his Bible was nearly knocked out of his hands and he was stopped in his tracks as one of these ‘mobile nuisance vehicles’ slowly crawled by. It took a few minutes for him to compose himself and continue, but it was clear to all that he had lost the intensity of deliverance. Can you imagine what these residents, especially the sick, the feeble, the old, the young babies, the busy housewives, the sleeping night workers, and the children in schools have to face, given their regular doses of noise pollution? It may not be too long from now when

the Upper Corentyne will be transformed into a colony of zombies since lack of sleep and proper rest can cause mood disorder, such as anxiety and depression. It can also damage one’s judgment and negatively affect one’s work performance and safety.

I am calling on the Commissioner of Police (ag), Mr David Ramnarine, to put an immediate halt to this lawlessness of illegally issuing commercial permits/ licences for commission of daily noise nuisance and pollution. It is not the duty of the Guyana Police Force to make laws but to execute laws. Is the GPF the Parliament of Guyana? This Police official in Region Six should read the Environmental Protection Act 1996.

Yours sincerely, Muhammad Mustapha

news

5

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Auto supply dealers urged to adhere to laws, best practices

T

he annual Suppliers’ Seminar of the Consumer Affairs Unit on Monday brought together auto suppliers from across the country and other stakeholders to review the best practices and laws under which auto dealers must operate.

Hosted at the Herdmanston Lodge in Georgetown, the forum aims to bring auto dealers into greater compliance with the laws, regulations and standards that safeguard the rights of consumers.

Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin, who attended the seminar, noted that Government and pri-

the economy is growing, and this has seen more cars being imported; hence stricter guidelines need to be implemented.

“Consumers are eager to purchase cars from auto dealers. It is very important that these consumers are vigilant and know

Auto supply dealers in attendance at the seminar

Business Minister Dominic Gaskin

vate stakeholders must both

collaborate to ensure all parties in the auto industry are protected.

“Our Government needs to work with your industry to encourage adherence to the guidelines that the industry is required to operate within,” he said.

According to Minister Gaskin, transportation is key to the economic competitiveness of any country; therefore safe, reliable vehicles are important sub-components of this sector. He said it is important that the auto industry be aware of Government’s projections going forward.

“Last year, as part of Government’s 2017 budget, measures of renewable

energy sources, co-generational alternatives, the Government announced five measures. One: the lowering of excise tax on hybrid and electric vehicles; two: granting of tax exemptions to set up electric vehicles’ charging stations; three: zero-rating the excise tax on biofuel and specially designed refuse trucks; four: the restriction of used tyres; and five: the reduction of taxes on new tyres”, Minister Gaskin highlighted.

Director of the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC), Dawn Holder-Alert, has said

Man freed of child rape charge …in 1st case tried at new Sexual Offences Court

By Shemuel Fanfair

A

West Demerara man who had been confined at the Camp Street Prison awaiting trial will now be able to enjoy his liberty after a jury acquitted him of two counts of child sexual activity at the High Court in Georgetown on Monday.

Sunil Dindial had been accused of rape of a child under 16 years old by penetrating a pre-teen female using his finger; but the 12-member jury found him not guilty of this indictment in the proportion of 11-1.

On the second count, Dindial was indicted for sexual activity with the same child by way of kissing

Sunil Dindial moments after he was escorted to freedom

her; but during their nearly three-hour deliberations, the jury again found him not

guilty, albeit by a 10-2 proportion.

Both offences were al-

leged to have occurred on October 3, 2016 at a community in Demerara, and Dindial was said to be then in his late 40s.

After the verdict was handed down, Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall told Dindial that he had been found not guilty and was free to go. Released from the shackles, Dindial gleefully exited the courtroom and was escorted out on his path to freedom.

Dindial had been represented by Attorney-at-law Adrian Thompson, while State Prosecutor Shawnette Austin had led the prosecution. This was the first case to be tried at the new Sexual Offences Court, which was launched at the High Court

No obfuscation can remedy ANSA’s sole sourcing scam Dear Editor, I write to correct a statement made in the Monday (November 20, 2017) edition of the Kaieteur News, in an article headlined ‘Sole sourcing by GPHC, rentals for ministers…Finance minister, opposition clash on matters of accountability’.

The article states that: “It won a tender to supply drugs and pharmaceuticals to the tune of $605M”, refer-

tions with consumers.

The Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC), which was established in 2006 and became fully operational in 2010, is tasked with objectively executing the laws governing the two acts – the Competition and Fair-

ring to ANSA McAL. Please be advised that all available information in the public domain, including investigations by the Public Procurement Commission, indicate that there was no tender process and no award made by the NPTAB. As such, it would be incorrect and misleading to peddle this line that ANSA McAL won a tender.

This inaccurate inser-

tion would have misrepresented every objection raised by the PPP/C on this matter. Editor, this inaccurate insertion is also in line with what has recently been pointed out by the Opposition Leader, whereby Kaieteur News strategically places ‘mitigating’ lines to excuse the illegalities, incompetence and mismanagement by the APNU+AFC Coalition Administration.

The fact remains that this transaction between the GPHC and ANSA McAL violated the Procurement Act of 2003. No obfuscation can remedy this matter.

This correction should be given the same level of prominence as the original story.

Bishop Juan A Edghill, MP PPP/C Member of Parliament

Director of the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission, Dawn Holder-Alert

what they are entering into.

Sometimes the eagerness of the consumer to buy a car will affect their ability to ensure they are protected,” Holder-Alert explained.

It has been recommended that individuals and businesses operating within the auto industry be required by law to observe fair business practices in their transac-

Trading Act #11 of 2006 (CFTA), and the Consumer Affairs Act # 13 of 2011 (CAA). The agency advocates and ensures a balance of fairness and equality between consumers and businesses, protects consumers’ interests in relation to the supply of goods and services, and guarantees efficient and effective redress.

on November 14.

At that launch, it was highlighted by Acting Chancellor JusticeYonette Cummings-Edwards that over the last two sessions of the Demerara Assizes, the statistics have shown that more than 50 per cent of the cases involved sexual offences.

“So if half of the list comprised sexual offences, it

meant that the other indictable offences…took second place…that is something we have to address,” she highlighted.

The Supreme Court of Judicature hopes to take the Sexual Offences Court model to the other two counties – Berbice and Essequibo – in an effort to reduce the increased incidents of such cases.

6

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017

Page

R

udeness damages others by creating stress, eroding self-worth, creating relationship problems, and making life difficult. When others treat us rudely, we often become vulnerable and overcome by self-doubt.

Teaching children to be polite is not an all-or-nothing proposition, rather it is a continuum? that starts at birth and continues throughout life. Teaching a child just a single strategy about politeness will better that child and his or her life.

The most important skill we can teach our children to help them succeed in life is the ability to get along

with others. To do that, it takes a village. If we fail, the rest of the world will let us know, and our children will be subjected to a life of ridicule, isolation, and despair. As a parent, you are your child’s prime instructor. So, model politeness, say “No” to rudeness, and keep making a positive difference.

Here are some tips for teaching your children how to say “No” to rudeness

guyanatimesgy.com

Foundation

and “Yes” to politeness: Start by setting a zero tolerance for rudeness. Explain to your children that it is your job to help them grow up to become the best they can be. Let children know that rudeness is a damaging learned behaviour, and that you can and will teach them to avoid it and use better ways to behave.

When you see your child acting rudely, go back to the lists on the causes for rudeness in Part One and try to figure out why he or she is choosing to act that way. If you can figure out the cause, it is much easier to develop an effective solution.

Use incidents of rudeness as teaching opportunities to help your children develop good manners and social skills.

Model politeness in every way possible. Your children are always watching you and they will follow your example. If you are ever rude in front of your children, acknowledge your behaviour to them and apologise.

Show and feel empathy. Based on the cards children are dealt in life, they may be playing the best hand they can to win at life. Teach children from where they are currently at in the world and not from where you expect them to be.

Read stories to your children that have messages about positive

behaviour that counteracts rudeness (A few suggestions include: Cell Phoney; Sorry I Forgot to Ask!; Teamwork Isn’t My Thing and I Don’t Like to Share; But It’s Just A Game!; Cliques Just Don’t Make Cents!; Thanks For the Feedback; and Making Friends Is an Art! All of these books are available through the Boys Town Press®. )?

Have your children point out how the stories’ characters acted rudely.

Discuss why the characters may have chosen to act that way, if they knew they were being rude, and what they did to overcome their rudeness. Often, if a child in a story has a problem and learns to solve it, the young reader can identify with the strategies used in the book and apply them in real life.

We often tell parents and kids: “Your thoughts are private, but your behaviour is public.” You can think whatever you want to think, but the minute you let your thoughts out of your head through your words or actions, they become public information.

And your words and actions are what people use to define the kind of person you are.

When it comes to how you want your children to treat others, there isn’t a better reason for teaching them positive social skills. (Boystown.org)

A

person of character shows respect.

He or she is courteous and polite and is tolerant of differences.

He or she respects the dignity, privacy and freedom of others. A child is not born with a concrete self-image or character traits. These are learned and shaped through experiences that begin at birth. These factors play a fundamental role in your child's growth and development.

Consider the following examples of "do's and don'ts":

Do

Treat others the way you want to be treated.

Show tolerance and be accepting of differences.

Be courteous and use good manners.

Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements.

Don't

Insult or make fun of others.

Offend others with bad language.

Threaten, hit or hurt anyone.

Respect

Be tolerant of differences Use good manners and language Be considerate of others' feelings Don't threaten, hit or hurt anyone Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements (boystown.org)

news

7

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

First Children’s Forum hosted …calls for national leaders to address social issues

voice their concerns.

“We certainly take note of all the things that they have been saying; and we also take note, hence we are

Government officials and other national leaders in attendance at the children’s forum

T

he prevalence of social issues in all regions of Guyana is likely to be addressed in a swift manner, as children representing schools and communities in various regions across the country took the opportunity to voice their concerns at the first Children’s Forum held on Monday.

Held in observance of Universal Children’s Day, the event was hosted by the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA), through the Ministry of Social Protection, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).

Children under the age of 12 expressed their views through various artistic forms, including dance, spoken word, dramatic poetry, and skits.

Most of the issues which were highlighted fell under the purview of the Ministry of Social Protection, and included domestic violence, physical and sexual abuse, child abandonment and neglect, among other things.

Infrastructural upgrades and better access to education were also mentioned.

Keen attention was paid to the children as they portrayed life in their various communities.

President David

Granger, who attended the event, noted that the children – Guyana’s future leaders -- can be assured that those in Government today would positively pave the way for them to follow.

“You (the children) have to take over this country ten years from now, 20 years

is a signatory, this initiative was sought after to provide an opportunity for children to exercise their right to freedom of expression.

According to the Act, this includes “the liberty to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds regardless of frontiers ei-

Merano Kent, representing one of the primary schools in Region One, delivering his views to leaders present

from now; and we are very happy that you are so articulate. Some of the criticisms are a little painful, but it means that the adults here will take note and try to make things better for you,” President Granger explained.

In keeping with Article 13 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, to which Guyana

ther orally, in writing or in print, in the form of art or through any other media of the child’s choice.”

Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, commended the Childcare and Protection Agency for the initiative. According to the Department of Public Information, she observed that the medium gives children an equal opportunity to

GRA filling top positions

S

upplementary financing approval has been given for the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to fill high-level positions, to ensure the efficient functioning of the tax body.

On Friday, November 17, the National Assembly passed the Supplementary Appropriation No 3/2017 which provided $2.9 billion for current and capital expenditures.

Of that sum, $118 million was allocated to the GRA for additional employment in 2017. “There’re a total of 61 new persons that are being hired over the course of 2017. The amounts

GRA headquarters

also cater for promotions and various other adjustments,” Finance Minister Winston Jordan explained.

The high-level positions which remain to be

filled include Comptroller of Customs and Commissioner.

Over the last month, the GRA has been advertising the positions in the local newspapers.

going to be making (and) we are going to be taking action based on recommendations that they have made…this is a very serious forum.”

The event was hosted at the Ramada Princess Hotel under the theme “The Voices of Our Children: Standing Strong and Speaking Out.”

8 NEWS

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

IN THE COURTS Man gets 3 years for ganja possession …nabbed with 21 grams

S

ataka Joseph, a 25-year-old construction worker, opted not to waste the court’s time and entered a guilty plea to a charge of trafficking in narcotics when arraigned on Monday morning before Georgetown Magistrate Judy Latchman.

Joseph had been found in possession of 21 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking on November 16, 2017 at America Street

in Georgetown.

Police Prosecutor Shawn Gonsalves related that, on the day in question, ranks of the Brickdam Police Station were on patrol in the area when they c a m e i n t o contact with the defendant and

conducted a search on his person.

A quantity of seeds, leaves and stems suspected to be cannabis were found in his front left side pants pocket wrapped in a transparent plastic bag. Arrested and taken

into custody, he orally confessed to ownership of the suspected prohibited herb.

Given the chance to speak in court, Joseph remained silent and indicated that he did not wish to say anything, Taking all mitigating factors into consideration, Magistrate Latchman imposed on Joseph a fine of $30,000 and a mandatory term of three years in prison.

4 youths remanded for multiple gang-related robbery charges

C

arl Hilliman and Leon Gittens, both 21 years old, and Kristoff Watts and Kwasi McCoy, both 20 years old, were yesterday arraigned before Georgetown Magistrate Judy Latchman on a string of robbery offences allegedly committed jointly and severally in the Georgetown Magisterial District between July and November 2017.

It is alleged that on September 20, 2017, while at the Stabroek Market, the quartet robbed Asif Ali of a quantity of gold jewellery, electronic gadgets, cash and documents to a total value of $2,243,500.

Hillman, Gittens and Watts are alleged to have robbed Brian Mohabir on July 30, 2017 while armed with an offensive weapon (ice pick), relieving him of a cellular phone and other items to the total value of

$26,000.

These three defendants are also accused of robbing Carl Cheong of cash and other items valued at $115,000 on July 26, 2017 in the Georgetown area.

The Police are further contending that Hilliman and Gittens were involved in an incident of robbery with aggravation which resulted in Riota Subishi losing $272,000 on October 28,

2017.

Two additional charges were brought solely against Hilliman. One alleged that he robbed Dariam Ramkadiss of cash $166,000, and Suraj Goserall of cash $163,000 between September and November respectively, in the Georgetown Magisterial District.

The court heard that

Gittens is employed as a vendor, while his cousin, Watts, is a minibus conductor. They both reside in Cowan Street, Kingston, Georgetown.

Hilliman, the court was told, plies his trade as a mason in the Georgetown ward of Bourda, and McCoy is said to be a cigarette vendor living in Fort Street, Kingston, Georgetown.

All four of the unrepresented defendants pleaded not guilty to the offences for which they were charged.

They denied any knowledge of the offences, and appeared incredulous at being remanded to prison after Magistrate Latchman had upheld the prosecutor’s bail objections.

This case has been set to continue on December 4, 2017 before Magistrate Judy Latchman.

Mechanic charged for allegedly stealing cop’s motorcycle

M

ohammed Edon, a 30-year-old mechanic of James Street, Albouystown, on Monday morning appeared before Georgetown Magistrate Judy Latchman to answer a charge accusing him of stealing Police rank Samuel Scotland’s motorcycle, valued at $185,000, between August 6, and August 7, 2017 at La Penitence Public Road in Georgetown.

Edon’s defence counsel, Paul Fung-A-Fat, in an application for bail, contended that his client did not steal anyone’s motorcycle. He argued that on August 6, 2017, a man whom his client knew only as “Carl” brought the said motorcycle for Edon, a mechanic, to repair.

According to the lawyer, his client performed the task as instructed, and genuinely did not --

and in no way could have reasonably known -- that the motorcycle had been stolen.

Police Prosecutor Shawn Gonsalves contended that on August 6th, the complainant parked his motorcycle at his place of abode, only to discover the following day that it had gone missing.

Sometime later that day, the cop spotted the accused riding the stolen motorcycle. Edon was subsequently nabbed with the motorcycle.

The prosecution relayed that, upon his arrest, Edon told investigating ranks that he had bought the motorcycle from someone, and had effected repairs to the vehicle. Charges had followed that caution statement.

Bail was set at the sum of $150,000, and the case has been put down for recall on December 4, 2017.

New wave…

T

…reporting? here’s an interesting development unfolding in Guyana even as you read this, Dear Reader. Ever since the birth of the newspaper back in the 17th Century, it has constantly evolved from just summarising the news and passing it on to actually CREATING the news. Not just from the obvious power to SELECT which news was going to get printed – and declare it’s “All the news that’s fit to print” like the NY Times did – but actually giving the news various slants or making it up to influence the readers.

And we arrive at the age of “fake news”, or as Kellyanne Conway would term it, “alternative facts”. In Guyana, its local emblematic practitioner had always been the Muckraker, which had obviously modelled itself after the sensationalist National Enquirer. Except that instead of reporting on space aliens giving birth to babies sired by Elvis and such like, they specialised in spinning just as incredible tales about the PPP in general, and Bharrat Jagdeo in particular!

But even though you wouldn’t know it from what goes on in Guyana, over the years the law of libel had evolved to deal with blatant skewering of people’s reputations in the newspaper via fake news. And this tended to make most publishers more than a bit skittish about publishing some of the news that might come their way.

Like the item that brought about these musings by your Eyewitness. Seems there’s been this paedophilic teacher who’s been committing his acts of violation for almost two decades. The fella taught at almost all the top High Schools in Georgetown – in addition to giving the now obligatory “lessons” – and yet was never exposed by the newspapers. His modus operandi was to befriend and “groom” vulnerable and troubled schoolgirls as they approached the “age of consent” through sexualising of his classroom talks, etc, before moving in for the actual sexual contact.

And how does your Eyewitness know this and yet his newspaper hasn’t exposed this sick pervert? “Social media” is the answer to the first question and the “libel laws” to the second. The story has unfolded on social media over the past few weeks even to the point of the sick teacher being named. This can happen because the libel laws are yet evolving to cover social media – while without some kind of police charge being laid, the newspapers are struck dumb.

If the twisted teacher had been more of a public figure, maybe the newspapers could’ve outed him under the “fair comment” exception to libel.

But isn’t it time the Police charge the pervert on available evidence, so justice can be done for so many children??

…murders Charles Manson is dead. “Who’s Charles Manson,” you ask, Dear Reader? Well, let’s put it this way…Manson represented the dark side of what was touted as the “Dawning of the Age of Aquarius”. Which, as the 1969 song declared, “When the moon is in the Seventh House/ And Jupiter aligns with Mars/ Then peace will guide the planets/ And love will steer the stars”. And on earth there will be, “Harmony and understanding/ Sympathy and trust abounding/ No more falsehoods or derisions/ Golden living dreams of visions/ Mystic crystal revelation/ And the mind’s true liberation”.

But while the ‘60s generation was celebrating free love and flower power, Manson, a 5’2” bearded wannabe rock star cultivated a group of young followers who brutally slaughtered seven high-profile Hollywood types, including Sharon Tate, the wife of Director Roman Polanski. It wasn’t just the murders and the smearing of “pig” and “Helter Skelter” on the bodies with blood, that shocked the world, but the circus atmosphere they created during their subsequent trial.

The lesson? Beware of men who promise us utopia!! …Security Minister?

With the Police Force obviously having entrenched problems at the top, the middle and in the ranks, isn’t it time to change the fella in charge?

The Minister of Public Security.

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

News

9

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Enmore businesses recognise top student Medical-Scientific Conference highlights use of local materials

I

n its pursuit to promote research findings by doctors at the post-graduate level, the Institute of Health Sciences Education (IHSE) held its tenth Annual MedicalScientific Conference at the Ramada Princess Hotel at Providence, East Bank Demerara on Sunday.

This allowed doctors the opportunity to present their research findings to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) administration and those responsible for managerial changes.

Director of the Institute of Health Sciences Education, Dr. Alexandra Harvey, said she was happy to be able to continue providing a forum for local healthcare practitioners to present their research findings.

“We (IHSE) are continuing to work to improve this whole culture of researching in the medical environment, because we feel (that) in order to improve healthcare delivery, it should be based on evidence, to allow for sustainable practices, thereby delivering quality healthcare to our patients.”

Dr. Harvey explained.

This, she opined, would boost the credibility of healthcare delivery among peers and the public alike.

Dr. Harvey noted that research papers presented at the meeting promoted the use of local materials, as opposed to importing these supplies.

Director of the Institute of Health Sciences Education, Dr Alexandra Harvey

“We had the papers relating to things that can be used practically here in Guyana. Using local materials for shielding people that are getting their x-rays, instead of importing the barriers normally used to prevent our patients and ourselves from getting the

bad effects of the x-ray. It is possible to use materials that are made here,” Dr. Harvey said.

In addition to the use of local alternative material as a structural shield for diagnostic radiological facilities, some of the other topics discussed during the conference dealt with team-building exercises for doctors and nurses working in the Accident and Emergency units, and educating the GPHC female patients on the correct approach and practices in relation to cervical cancer.

According to the Department of Public Information, the conference, hosted under the theme “Transforming Health Care: Celebrating 10 years of residency education and research in Guyana”, attracted more than 200 local medical practitioners and overseas associates.

A section of the participants at the 10th Medical-Scientific Conference

S

Balram Harrichand being recognised and honoured by his fellow villagers

everal business establishments in Enmore, East Coast Demerara on Saturday last hailed the achievements of a young son of that soil who excelled at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) examinations for 2017.

Balram Harrichand, a former student of Valmiki Vidlaya Primary at Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, chalked up a whopping 516 marks out of a possible 529, gaining a spot at Queen’s College.

He emerged top student of that primary school, while also placing in the top 10 of Region Four, and 42nd overall in the country.

His father, Tularam Sharma Harrichand, popularly known as ‘Pandit Hero’, has said he is very happy with his son’s performance.

He noted that all the long hours of studies are paying off.

Last Saturday, the young Harrichand received several trophies to mark his achievement, with Motor Trend Auto Spares and Repairs, Star Sports, Trans Pacific Motor Spares, Rajin Auto Paint, and S.E Auto Sales making presentations.

The aspiring engineer, expressing his gratitude for the acknowledgement from his fellow villagers, pointed out that such levels of en-

couragement can only serve to motivate him to seek higher academic excellence.

Managing Director of Star Sports, Sheik Mohamed, who is a former national wicketkeeper/batsman, urged the student to work diligently to achieve his goals and make the community proud.

Starlet Cup race car champion driver Motilall ‘Kevin’ Deodass, of Motor Trend Auto Spares and Repairs, and Rajin Ramdeo of Rajin Auto Paint also offered words of encouragement, stating that young Balram is an example of what could be achieved through hard work, dedication and commitment.

10 News

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

9 women entrepreneurs to benefit from WINC AP mentorship

N

ine Guyanese women will be participating in the second Women Innovators Network in the Caribbean Acceleration Programme (WINC AP) for women entrepreneurs. The women were selected from a total of 250 applicants from across the Caribbean.

First Lady Sandra Granger attended the opening session of the eightmonth programme, which was hosted at the GeoTech Vision office on Brickdam.

In an invited comment, the First Lady said she was proud of the women, and

Caribbean. Its Founder and Managing Director, Valrie Grant, has said the programme is primarily based on facilitation of peer-to-peer learning among growth-oriented women.

The programme is designed to teach participants “a more advantageous context, leading to improved business performance and investment,” Grant has said, adding that “these growth-oriented entrepreneurs will learn from each other (and) they will be co-creating”.

Grant has said this entrepreneurship ecosystem

es in relation to financing, owning and growing their businesses.

Participant Christine Gooding, owner of Market Square, has said she is looking forward to the training, and expects to gain a wealth of information that would help her to take her business to the next level.

“I’m definitely looking forward to (knowing) how I can get funding for my business; how I can leverage my business to gain a bigger market within the country, and also ways in which I can work for persons regionally perhaps,” she said.

First Lady Sandra Granger and six of the nine participants who are expected to benefit from the second WINC AP accelerated programme for women in business. Founder and Managing Director of GeoTech Vision, Valrie Grant, is also pictured first from left

that she is confident they would capitalise on the opportunity to learn the skills that they need to grow their businesses.

GeoTech Vision is a company that specialises in innovative spatial technologies and business ICT solutions, and is an accredited World Bank /Infodev AP Facilitator for the

approach emerged after it was found that creating an enabling environment for business start-ups was not leading to the creation of high-growth firms.

As such, the WINC partnered with large firms, service providers, civil society and universities to mentor the women, teaching them how to overcome challeng-

The other eight participants are: Veronica Glen, Wanda Dillon, Maxine George, Cecily Bernard, Natasha Goodman, Candace Wickham, Petal Dodson, and Claudette Fredericks.

Over the training period, the participants will learn how to advance their ventures using networks; how to access financing; and how

Owner of ActionCoach Guyana, Vishnu Doerga, speaking at the event

to link business with technology.

According to a statement from the Ministry of the Presidency, the programme includes business coaching and mentoring, as well as personal development sessions.

Chargé d'Affaires of the Canadian High Commission, Jan Sheltinga; General Manager-Credit, Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited, Parbatie Khan; and owner of ActionCoach Guyana, Vishnu Doerga, also spoke at the event.

Newly-recruited Foreign Service Officers conclude orientation programme

Director of the Foreign Service Institute, Ambassador Ronald Austin (front centre) with the newlyrecruited FSOs

T

he Foreign Affairs Ministry concluded a five-day orientation programme for newly-recruited Foreign Service Officers (FSOs) on Friday at the Roraima Duke Lodge in Kingston, Georgetown.

Each day, senior officials from the Ministry as well as national diplomats, among others, delivered a series of presentations to enrich each FSO’s understanding of Guyana’s foreign policy,

the Ministry’s mission and responsibilities, diplomatic protocol and etiquette, among other topics.

Director of the Foreign Service Institute, Ambassador Ronald Austin, noted that “it was a very important exercise in that it was an opportunity for the officers to acquire knowledge of diplomacy.

Over the past week, new recruits to the Ministry gained a better understand-

ing in areas such as economic diplomacy, the culture of different nations, the changing international environment and knowledge on how they should conduct themselves.”

Furthermore, according to one FSO, “The orientation programme gave us a chance to seek clarity on questions we had since starting our jobs at the Ministry. When we return to work, we can apply what we learned...”

Aruwai Resort is uniquely situated at the confluence of the Mazaruni and Cuyuni Rivers, approximately 75 minutes by boat from Parika.

The Resort can also be accessed by road and air.

The main property consists of five acres of luxurious amenities, including 35 scenic guest rooms, all with balconies; conference facilities; an exquisite fine dining restaurant; a spa; gift shop; and many recreational amenities such as swimming pools equipped with a pool bar, jacuzzi, water sports and beach games. Free Wi-Fi is available to guests.

Aruwai Resort offers many opportunities to enhance both corporate and personal occasions, including promotions; milestone celebrations and anniversaries; staff/ management retreats; and other functions all geared at achieving great results while creating remarkable memories and experiences.

Visit Aruwai Resort and let our friendly and courteous team pamper you with exceptional customer service that is bound to ensure that your event or visit is indeed memorable and surpasses your expectations.

On island fun

Just visiting for the day or spending a few nights with us? Well, Aruwai Resort offers tons of on- island activities to keep you entertained.

For persons interested in water fun, our swim-up pool bar, Jacuzzi or kids pool may

be appealing; for more adventure, you can venture into the river for some kayaking , pedal boating or exhilarating fun on the jet skis.

Our fully air-conditioned games room with games such as pools, table tennis and darts, which can add more excitement and comfort to your visit to Aruwai Resort.

Aruwai Resort has a well-maintained beach that can be used for both day and evening fun.

Enjoy a game of cricket, football or volleyball, jogging, fishing or just bask in the sun during the day. In the evening, you can resort to a bonfire or a stroll down memory lane with some traditional games such as sal, dog and the bone, and bun-house just to mention a few.

Spa services are available via appointment.

Our food and drink

Our expansive range of cocktails and other non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, along with concoctions put together by our skilled mixologists, are guaranteed to quench your thirst. The food at Aruwai Resort has received overwhelming accolades and our menu includes both local and international dishes.

Choose from local dishes such as pepper pot, garlic bread, chokas, curries or the more international flavours such as alfredo, sautéed prawns, pizzas and chicken picata.

For your dining pleasure, you can choose one of our many outdoor settings or dress up and experience the ambiance of the Itaki

Restaurant.

Our friendly and courteous team will work with you to custom design a setting to enrich your experience.

Tours

Explore off island by visiting the many landmarks around Aruwai Resort. Tours can be organised for guests to visit one of the more pristine remnants of our Dutch heritage – Fort Kyk-Over-Al. This historical landmark is within viewing distance of the Resort. Additionally, tours can be arranged to pass by Guyana’s largest detention facility, the Mazaruni prisons.

If you are game for more interaction, a tour either by river or road can be organised to visit the township of Bartica. This will allow persons to visit and experience a number of local businesses and have a first-hand view of life in the bustling mining town.

We urge you to visit Aruwai and indulge in the tropical getaway. Come, be pampered, experience Guyana’s own piece of paradise, leave refreshed!!

To learn more about how you can visit Aruwai Resort call us at 592-225-7517, 6004522-24 or visit us on facebook or our website and let one of our professional staff assist you with planning your trip.

Embrace and enjoy. Visit Guyana’s only Island Resort. Visit Aruwai Resort!!!

With plans for Mash 2018 in full swing, Pulse Entertainment is ready to hit the road with its massive Mash Band.

Join the Pulse team on Saturday, November 25, 2017 at the Giftland Mall Parking Lot, for special performances, and the dramatic revelation of the Band’s theme and costume designs.

Be part of the crowd to have the first look at the epic designs and the exciting packages and giveaways for this major party event.

The event is one which will be the talk of the town with international sound, stage & lighting!

Get ready for the fete of the year, the fete of a lifetime, the Guyanese fete! Be sure to support GTT Pulse Mash Band 2018. Limited early bird tickets available at a cost of $2000, standard tickets cost $3000, and stage-front tickets cost $6000.

And it gets even better! It’s free drinks for everyone!

Powered by GTT Do More, Pulse Entertainment, XM Rum & Ticket Master.

12

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

13

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

KARAOKE night at Blue Martini

“Classically classic”, Classic’s International Hotel & Suites is the very embodiment of a good time for any occasion!

Classic’s, located in Berbice, is the place to create memories with the ones you cherish the most with unforgettable panoramic views, modern facilities for every occasion and season, along with warm and friendly staff!

If you drop in to Classic’s today, you can either choose to dine in style under the glimmering chandelier, or drop by one of the

Vintage is defined as being the year or place in which wine, especially wine of high quality, is produced.

This article, however, is not just an ode to all the lovers of sweet liquid bread, but also to connoisseurs of great food, a comfortable environment and an even better time!

Do you want to hit the bar with your girls or guys and take a few shots down? Vintage is the place to go! Do you want to dance to Latin music with your comrades, but there is no place to go? Then worry no longer, my friends, because Latin night on Fridays is where it all

many fully stocked bars to meet fully-trained affable bartenders waiting just for your order!

But don’t forget your swimwear, because who doesn’t want to swim under the sun – or even the stars – in the large, clean and wellmaintained pool?

It doesn’t stop there though! Coming soon is a luxurious decked-out 3D Theatre, where anything can happen if you let it, with the latest on-demand movies for your viewing pleasure!

happens! If you’re lucky, you m i g h t e v e n pick

up a move or two.

Do you and your partner just want to go out for a dinner under dim lights with a beautiful town view? Then Vintage really is the place for you!

Look out for their specials on wine and cuisine for Restaurant Week! And remember, not all who wander are lost, sometimes they just can’t find their wine!

Have you been waiting for that moment to show off your talent and take a bow to an adoring crowd? It’s time for a fun KARAOKE night paired with good music & drinks! There is also Happy Hour as some rock gods need a little bit of liquid courage.

Then you need to head down to Blue Martini! Every Thursday Night!

Music makes people happy not only when they listen to it, but also when they sing songs. There are so many kinds of music out there. In today’s world with so much pressure for a person to handle, singing karaoke songs seems to be a quick fix and rewarding thing to do.

Whether it is for any celebration like an anniversary, birthday or a company outing or for the fun of it, karaoke would be one of the events on the list. Karaoke is about singing ahead with the void music for the songs that you like or love most. It does not mean you have to be an excellent singer to sing along with the karaoke tracks. Karaoke is meant for everyone to enjoy singing along to their favourite bits of favourite singers – which are mostly popular songs.

Besides releasing your stress or de-stressing, karaoke helps you to practise your singing. So, if you would like to sing for someone in front of a crowd or group for a special occasion, karaoke is the way to go. With the great technology era that we live in today, we could easily find the lyrics to a song through the Internet.

Numerous websites online make it easy for you to master your favourite songs.

As the saying goes, a family that plays together stays together: karaoke singing also helps families, relatives and friends to stay closer. At times it is good to do things as a family and this is when karaoke plays a part.

There is so much fun in singing and it is all totally a new kind of happiness and joyful laughter that karaoke sessions bring.

To sum it all up, karaoke is a cheerful and healthy activity that is wonderful to enjoy. In addition to providing full-length music entertainment, karaoke singing grants numerous benefits that you may not notice. This favourite pastime of most people provides wonderful benefits for one’s health, behaviour, singing performance and psychological state.

Seepaul’s Bar STRESS RELIEF

After you’ve had your fill of fun during the day, it’s time to check the vibrant and diverse night entertainment that awaits you. Explore Seepaul’s Bar for a cold beer or just “lime” [hang out] as they say in Guyana.

Seepaul’s Bar has been around long enough so you know they have unbeatable prices.

There is a fully stocked bar, along with delicious sides – whether you are a fish fry fanatic, into French fries or plantain fries. You will definitely enjoy it there. You can sit and chill or play some pools.

So, after a busy week or a stressful day, sometimes the most effective way to relax is by spending quality time with your best friend.

Hanging out with friends is healthy, as it helps you to RELIEVE STRESS. Your piledup daily stress makes you feel down, over-burdened and alone sometimes. At this time, no medicine can give you mental peace and spiritual support more than your friends. If you feel stressed and depressed at any time, this is the alarm that you need for a dose of hangouts with friends. Make a full-on party at Seepaul’s and burst a pack of fun together; forget your stress for a while and laugh as loud as you can. Medically, it has been proven that when you are stressed, laughing helps. The reason behind this is that your brain gets deoxygenated due to extra work and restlessness and when you laugh aloud you intake more oxygen and hence you RELEASE YOUR STRESS quickly. I assure you that it would relieve all your stress and problems in a very short time.

In this technological world, we are totally disconnected even from our neighbours. This is due to our hectic routine and workload and thirst for success and status. Successes and fame have no worth till everyone in your society knows you in good words. For recognisable success and status in society, you need to be well known. So, there is no better way to become social and recognisable except making hangouts, picnics and gatherings with friends and other people around you. A single hangout even with strangers can compel them to become your friend and to remember you always in good words and good image.

So, for your next hangout just show up with your friends at Seepaul’s and enjoy!

161 Alexander Street, Kitty, Georgetown. Tel: 223-6738

14 news

tuesdAY, november 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

“Respect women folk,” 3 North Rupununi communities President urges receive $2.6M in grants …as Guyana celebrates International Men’s Day

A

s Guyana celebrated International Men’s Day, President David Granger took the opportunity to remind fathers to instill respect for women in their sons.

“It is something that has to be engendered in the home; it has to be taught in the home,” the President said in his first live broadcast on Radio Bartica on Saturday last.

According to the Department of Public Information (DPI), the Head of State shared a quote he often refers to, “the correct time to educate a child is 100 years before he is born.”

He explained that the home was the base for a socially cohesive society and children needed to grow up in a family environment that fostered responsible parenting to provide direction and guidance.

International Men’s

Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Minister Sydney Allicock (left) presenting the cheque to Fair View Toshao Lucy Marslow

President David Granger speaking at the commissioning ceremony for Radio Bartica

Day has been observed annually on November 19 since 1992.

The six pillars of International Men's Day" include focusing on men's

and boys' health, improving gender relations, promoting gender equality, and highlighting male role models.

M

inister of I n d i g e n o u s Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, on Friday last handed over the sum of $2.6 million in community grants to the villages of Kwatamang, Rupertee, and Fair View in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), to facilitate the undertaking of green, sustainable projects under the Presidential Grant Fund.

Kwatamang and Rupertree each received $800,000, for construction of a community centre and a

sanitary block respectively; while a sum of $1,000,000 was presented to Fairview for the construction of a Village Office.

Toshao and representative of the Fair View community, Lucy Marslow, explained that construction of the village office would add to the many projects being commenced to facilitate community development, as she expressed gratitude to the Government for its continued support.

Thus far, a total of $300,000 has been inject-

ed into the construction of a hot meal kitchen, and there are plans to construct a village restaurant, for which some $5 million are to be received. These ventures are a part of the Community Development Project (CDP).

Minister Allicock, at the time attending the North Rupununi District Development Board (NRDDB) meeting in Apoteri, encouraged proper management of funds and maintenance of projects.

News

15

tuesdAY, november 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

GCCI signs MoU with Canada’s NEIA …during fact-finding mission

A

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was last week signed between the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA), continuing a culture of cooperation and information-sharing relative to investment, trade and economic opportunities between Guyana and Canada.

The MoU was signed during a one-week fact-finding mission in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, which saw the participation of a private sector delegation from Guyana. The delegation comprised GCCI President Deodat Indar, Nicholas Boyer, Major General (rt’d) Norman McLean, Captain Gerry Gouveia Jr., Amber Low; and Anand Harrilall, Trade Commissioner at the High Commission of

Canada.

The MoU serves to provide a framework for understanding and cooperation between the GCCI and the NEIA for the achievement of their common goals regarding the development of projects and trade in sectors related to clean technology, environment, and the green economy.

Under the agreement, both parties have vowed to cooperate for the development of partnership opportunities with respect to business arrangements such as joint ventures, general partnerships, and limited liability partnerships; collaborate to facilitate investment opportunities, trade missions and business delegations between Guyana and Canada; and work together to organise meetings, seminars and similar activities for the purpose of sharing information and expertise.

The signing of this MoU

between the GCCI and the NEIA is the third in a series of MoUs recently signed by the GCCI. During the one-week fact-finding mission, the Guyanese private sector delegation participated in a number of meetings, round-table discussions, and networking events with entities from the private sector, government departments, industry associations and educational institutions of the Newfoundland and Labrador province.

Discussions were held with government officials from the Departments of Tourism, Culture, Industry, and Innovation and Natural Resources, and the St. John’s Board of Trade.

The Guyanese delegation then engaged representatives from a number of industry associations, including the Newfoundland and Labrador Oil and Gas Industry Association, Newfoundland and Labrador

Guyanese and Canadian officials pose for a photo following the signing of the MoU

Environmental Industries Association, Oceans Advance, Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Women Entrepreneurs, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Technology Industries.

According to a statement from the GCCI, the mission also entailed site visits and tours of the facilities of several companies that provide supplies and services

to the oil and gas industry in St. John’s, including Blue Water Group (BWG), Cougar Helicopters, PAL Aerospace, and A. Harvey & Co. Ltd. The Guyanese delegation held discussions with Allswater Marine Consultants, ExxonMobil Canada, McInnes Cooper, College of the North Atlantic, and Offshore Safety and Survival Centre (OSSC) as well.

The GCCI said it attaches great importance to the efforts made by the Canadian Government to facilitate engagement between the Canadian and Guyanese private sectors, and recognises that synergies with its Canadian counterparts are not only beneficial to its members, but also work to build the local economy through external partnerships.

China to mediate Implicated cop remains between Myanmar and Bangladesh on Rohingyas in custody “Saga” execution

…charges yet to be instituted

E

mbattled Police Intelligence rank Corporal Derwin Eastman, who has been implicated in the execution of well-known D’Urban Street businessman Godfrey Scipio, called “Saga”, remains in Police custody as Police seek advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The Police rank surrendered on Friday at the Brickdam Police Station, and has, to a group of media operatives, professed his innocence in the murder.

However, a Police source on Monday told the Guyana Times that while the man remains in custody, it is not clear if he would be arraigned with the murder.

Media operatives flocked the Georgetown Magistrates Courts on Monday after it was reported in a section of the media that the policeman would be making his court appearance. However, up to late Monday afternoon, no charge had been instituted against the rank, who was a top performer in the Guyana Police Force.

“Once the charge is instituted, he will make his court appearance”, the Police source noted. <<Guyana Times>> understands that investigators are yet to prove that the policeman had actually loaned his gun to the accused, Aubrey Bobb, to commit the murder on the evening of October 12 last.

Upon surrendering to the

Police Corporal Derwin Eastman

Brickdam Police Station on Friday, Eastman expressed the view that he had been “set up”, and he declared that he was not in any way connected to the fatal shooting which occurred on October 12.

He told reporters on Thursday that he was “set up” by members of the Guyana Police Force who have something against him; but, in the same breath, he claimed that he would have arrested Bobb on several occasions for armed robbery, and he feels that the suspect is implicating him in the murder as a “payback”.

Eastman is, however, holding out that after Scipio was killed, he and other investigating ranks reviewed the CCTV footage, and he was able to identify and name Bobb as the shooter.

In light of the recent allegations, Eastman is requesting a confrontation with the suspect.

Corporal Derwin Eastman joined the Guyana Police Force in 2012, and was commended for his exemplary work in the Force in 2015, being adjudged the Best Cop at the Force’s annual prize giving ceremony for that year.

Meanwhile, it was reported that on the night of the fatal shooting, the wellknown businessman was reportedly leaving the hotel in the company of a female, and as he approached his motorcar, he was accosted by the lone gunman, who had arrived on a motorcycle.

Initially, the incident seemed to be a robbery, since the gunman relieved the businessman of the gold jewellery he had been wearing, but Police are now working on a theory that Scipio’s death might have been a hit.

After relieving the businessman of his jewellery and other valuables, the gunman reportedly shot the businessman to the rightside abdomen before fleeing the scene.

Scipio fell to the ground, and was picked up and taken to a private medical facility, where he subsequently died. From reports received, he died as a result of severe damage to his intestines.

In April 2011, the businessman had been shot in the village of Cummings Lodge during a shootout, when four armed men had discharged rounds during a robbery.

C

hina is positioning itself as a mediator in the dispute between Bangladesh and Myanmar over the Rohingya refugee crisis and announced a three-stage solution to the humanitarian calamity on Monday, saying both the countries have accepted its proposal.

There were an estimated one million Rohingyas in Myanmar before the 201617 crisis. On October 22, a UN report said that an estimated 603,000 refugees from Rakhine, Myanmar, had crossed into Bangladesh since August 25. This number increased to 624,000 by November 2. The UN has described the predominantly Muslim Rohingyas as one of the most persecuted minorities in the world.

“The (Chinese) initiative was approved in Bangladesh

An estimated 624,000 Rohingyas fled from Myanmar to Bangladesh

and also in Myanmar,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said on Monday. “We hope the proposal will help resolve the current crisis,” Lu added.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is now on a tour to Bangladesh and Myanmar to persuade the two coun-

tries to its way of thinking.

Beijing is trying to persuade Myanmar to impose a ceasefire and stop the persecuted Rohingyas from fleeing into Bangladesh. It’s also pitching for the return of those who’ve already entered Bangladesh. (Excerpt from Times of India)

Missing Argentine submarine had reported electrical malfunction

A

n Argentine military submarine reported an electrical problem and was headed back to base when it went missing last week in the South Atlantic, the navy said on Monday, while storms complicated efforts to find the vessel and its 44 crew members.

Hopes for a successful search for the ARA San Juan submarine, which went missing last Wednesday off the Argentine coast, waned when the navy said satellite calls detected over the weekend did not in fact

come from the vessel.

More than a dozen boats and aircraft from Argentina, the United States, Britain, Chile and Brazil joined the search effort. Authorities have mainly been scanning the sea from the sky, as storms have made it difficult for boats.

Gabriel Galeazzi, a naval commander, told reporters that the submarine had come up from the depths and reported an electrical malfunction before it disappeared 268 miles (432 kilometres) off the coast.

“The submarine sur-

faced and reported a malfunction, which is why its ground command ordered it to return to its naval base at Mar del Plata,” he said.

The malfunction did not necessarily cause an emergency, Galeazzi added. The craft was navigating normally, underwater, at a speed of five knots toward Mar del Plata when it was last heard from, he said.

“A warship has a lot of backup systems, to allow it to move from one to another when there is a breakdown,” Galeazzi said.(Excerpt from Reuters)

16

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017

News

SARA hosts asset recovery, law enforcement training A

number of staff members from the State Asset Recovery Agency (SARA) and other agencies on Monday started an 18day training programme with support from the Caribbean Institute of Forensic Accounting (CIFA) aimed at teaching participants the basic concepts of assets recovery and forensic auditing.

In declaring the workshop open, Head of SARA, Dr Clive Thomas told par-

ticipants that corruption could not be tackled by one institution such as SARA, but it has to be multipronged. He said this was the main reason for including persons from other agencies that work closely with the finance, revenue and management sectors.

He told the attendees who were drawn from several State agencies that the exercise was mandated by law. “The law in its wisdom mandates me to treat training as a priori-

Youman Nabi to be observed on Dec 1

T

he Central Islamic Organization of Guyana (CIOG) has on Monday advised that the Muslim festival of Youman Nabi will this year be observed on Friday, December 1.

This is because the moon signalling the commencement of the third Islamic month of Rabi’ al-awwal has not yet been sighted, thereby confirming that date for the observation.

Youman Nabi, also known as Mawlid al Nabi, is the celebration of the

birthday of the Prophet Muhammad, the Founding Prophet of Islam. Although Islam claims earlier prophets all the way back to Adam, the first man recorded in the Creation narrative, it holds up Muhammad as the final prophet, who gave definitive shape to the religion of Islam.

The CIOG, in its release, has extended best wishes to all Muslim brothers and sisters at home and abroad, ahead of the celebration of Youman Nabi this year.

Participants at the asset recovery and law enforcement training

ty. I have to train you, not because I think training is necessary, but I am compelled by law to provide you with training, and that I will do.”

Professor Thomas told the participants that the training was systematic and they were required to be diligent, attentive and punctual. Further, he said that the training to be undertaken was critical if the agency was to succeed at the task of asset tracking and recovery.

“The law also gives me other powers, but those

powers can only be exercised on the basis of the competence of those persons who are executing on SARA’s behalf or in the name of anti-corruption,” he explained, adding that he was also compelled by law to ensure that they were certified.

In delivering brief remarks at the opening, Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Commissioner Godfrey Statia noted that corruption accounted for 45 per cent of all frauds in Latin America and the Caribbean; therefore,

Guyana was not alone.

However, he said Guyana should try to reduce fraud and gave the commitment of the GRA to work with all the agencies for the good of the country.

He also emphasised the importance of networking among the various agencies involved in the fight against corruption and fraud.

“Until we have a common database, you’ll have to ask your colleagues for information.

Sometimes, laws will stymie access to that information, but that

does not mean you cannot come together and use your resources so as to meet the end result.”

Meanwhile, the facilitator, Stephon Grey, a certified fraud examiner and forensic practitioner, noted that the timing for the training was suitable since Guyana was preparing to welcome a new industry. He said in developed countries training exercises similar to the one he would be conducting were necessary as they helped to educate persons on ways in which they could help to fight corruption at all levels.

Grey, who heads the CIFA, will bring together experts from around the world. These include a leading asset recovery attorney and expert out of Europe, Steven Baker; a former Head of the Grenada Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), Senneth Joseph; Mark Hood from England and Rene Cummings from the United States of America.

Among the agencies participating in the training are the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), the local FIU and the GRA.

AFC “desperate to retain relevance” – PPP …slams party for duplicitous stand on important issues

T

he Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has taken the Alliance For Change (AFC) to task over what has been described as a “desperate attempt to retain relevance”, particularly in relation to comments the AFC have made in regard to the fate of sugar workers, besides comments made on several other important issues.

The AFC, in a statement on Monday, said its National Executive Committee (NEC) is concerned for sugar workers, who are likely to be displaced, and is calling on Government to “take decisive decisions with regard to their welfare”, and has proposed several measures to be considered.

The party’s NEC has suggested that sugar workers be given severance packages, offered land leases, and be given access to small loans and access to markets for agro-processing.

However, the PPP has said that the AFC’s comments expose its “duplicitous” nature, and its proclivity to speak on issues with a “forked tongue”.

“The AFC’s sudden attempt to communicate concern for the welfare of Guyanese people after over two years of hardship measures being imposed on Guyanese, and its vocal acquiescence (recall that it was Nagamootoo who carried the

message of closure of sugar estates to Rose Hall) as a partner in the coalition government must be called out for what it is – a failed attempt to rebrand its image”, the PPP has said.

The PPP also pointed out that Agriculture Minister Noel Holder is an AFC member who has agreed with the closure of estates, but he is now calling for action to address the welfare of sugar workers.

The PPP pointed out that almost 2,000 workers have been displaced by the closure of the Wales Sugar Estate, and thousands more have been indirectly affected by that estate’s closure.

“Where was the AFC’s voice when the Wales estate was closed? Where was the AFC’s voice when the report from the Commission of Inquiry (CoI), established by the Government it is a part of, was trashed? The AFC cannot expect Guyanese to accept that it suddenly realised that thousands of average Guyanese are on the breadline,” the statement from the PPP added.

While the AFC has also endorsed the vision of a new bridge across the Demerara river and the paving of the Linden-to-Lethem road, and has said it approves of the design of the new Demerara river bridge as presented by the Public Infrastructure Ministry; in so doing, it is in-

dicating support for corruption; tender process tampering; and flagrant breaches of the law, given the current developments under the APNU+AFC Administration with the project, the PPP has charged.

“There have been several media reports that raise questions about the project in its current construct, and its execution. Noteworthy is that the Public Infrastructure Ministry is also headed by an AFC Executive Member,” the PPP again pointed out in reference to Minister David Patterson.

Further, the main opposition party noted that while the AFC’s NEC has also welcomed “measures to avoid new taxes,” it not only fails to say what these measures are, but also fails to insist on no increases of the existing imposition of taxation measures and fees – almost 200 in the last two years.

But, importantly also, the PPP has raised concern over the AFC’s silence while the Integrity Commission’s Secretariat was dismantled, and its vote against the PPP motion on public disclosures of declarations to the Commission are in stark contrast with its current call for the Commission to be established, the PPP has highlighted.

The AFC on Monday said it remains fully com-

mitted to executing its role in advancing Constitutional Reform, and has called on the Government to establish the Integrity Commission as a matter of urgent national priority.

But the PPP has noted that Prime Minister and AFC Executive Member Moses Nagamootoo has been diverting attention from the emasculation of the Integrity Commission by touting a Code of Conduct.

According to the PPP, this makes the President the enforcer of sanctions when he himself is subject to review by the Integrity Commission. The Code itself, it said, would undermine the Commission.

And on the issue of Constitutional Reform, the PPP has said its position is that it remains open to Constitutional Reform; the major issue currently is the need for Constitutional Compliance.

However, the PPP has noted that while the AFC calls for Constitutional Reform, it has also supported the unilateral and unconstitutional appointment of a GECOM Chairman.

“No amount of diversion on this issue will be successful. The fact remains that constitutional compliance is what is needed in the immediate term,” the PPP has asserted.

tuesdAY, november 21, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

Around the World

Trump declares North Korea State sponsor of terrorism, triggers sanctions

U

S President Donald Trump on Monday declared North Korea a State sponsor of terrorism, a designation that allows the United States to impose additional sanctions and risks inflaming tensions over Pyongyang’s nuclear weapons and missile programmes.

The Republican President, who has traded personal insults with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, but has not ruled out talks, said the Treasury Department will announce more sanctions against North Korea on Tuesday.

The designation came a week after Trump returned from a 12-day, five-nation trip to Asia in which he made containing North Korea’s nuclear ambitions a centrepiece of his discussions.

“In addition to threatening the world by nuclear devastation, North Korea has repeatedly supported

US President Donald Trump delivers remarks about his recent trip to Asia in the Diplomatic Room of the White House in Washington, DC

acts of international terrorism, including assassinations on foreign soil,” Trump told reporters at the White House.

“This designation will impose further sanctions and penalties on North Korea and related persons and supports our maximum pressure campaign to isolate the murderous regime.”

“It should have happened

a long time ago,” Trump said.

North Korea is pursuing nuclear weapons and missile programmes in defiance of United Nations Security Council sanctions, and has made no secret of its plans to develop a nuclear-tipped missile capable of hitting the US mainland. It has fired two missiles over Japan. (Excerpt from Reuters)

the killing spree was heavily pregnant Hollywood actress Sharon Tate, wife of Roman Polanski.

One of Manson’s young followers, Susan Atkins, stabbed Tate to death and scrawled “PIG” on the home’s front door with the actress’s blood.

Four other people at Tate’s home were brutally stabbed to death. The next day, a wealthy couple in Los Angeles, Leno and Rosemary LaBianca, were also killed by the clan.

The killings became known collectively as the TateLaBianca murders.

Separately Donald Shea, a Hollywood stuntman, and Gary Hinman, an acquaintance of the group, were killed by members of the Manson Family.

Manson was not at the scene of the killings, but was nonetheless convicted of murder for directing his followers in seven of the killings. He was sentenced to death in 1971. (Excerpt from BBC

Charles Manson dies aged 83 after 4 decades in prison

C

harles Manson, the notorious cult leader who directed his followers to commit a string of brutal murders, and who became a symbol of the dark side of 1960s counterculture, has died aged 83.

Manson was admitted to Bakersfield hospital, California earlier this month and died of natural causes on Sunday.

In 1969, his followers, known as the Manson Family, killed nine people.

Among the victims of

17

News)

Zimbabwe latest: Mugabe ‘let wife Grace usurp power’

Z

imbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF party is set to begin impeachment proceedings against President Robert Mugabe on charges that include allowing his wife “to usurp constitutional power”.

The motion is now due to be presented to Parliament today.

Senior party member Paul Mangwana said the process could take as little as two days to complete, and President Mugabe could be removed by Wednesday.

A deadline set by ZANUPF for his resignation passed on Monday.

Separately, military leaders said they had planned a “roadmap” for Mugabe’s future, and that the ousted former Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa would return to the country soon.

Grace Mugabe and Mnangagwa had both been seen as potential successors to the ageing president. But last week, Mugabe fired his deputy – widely seen as an endorsement of his wife – prompting a military intervention. The country’s top general said Mugabe and his former deputy had been in contact, and would hold

in-person talks soon.

Zimbabwe’s Constitution allows for impeachment on grounds of “serious misconduct”, “violation” of the constitution or “failure to obey, uphold or defend” it, or “incapacity”.

“The main charge is that he has allowed his wife to usurp constitutional power when she has no right to run government. But she is insulting civil servants, the Vice President, at public rallies. They are denigrating the army – those are the charges,” Mangwana said, emerging from a party meeting. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Merkel signals readiness for new election after coalition talks collapse

C

hancellor Angela Merkel said she would prefer a new election to ruling with a minority after talks on forming a three-way coalition failed overnight, but Germany’s President told parties they owed it to voters to try to form a government.

The major obstacle to a three-way deal was immigration, according to Merkel, who was forced into negotiations after bleeding support in the September 24 election to the far right in a backlash at her 2015 decision to let in over one million migrants.

The failure of exploratory coalition talks involving her conservative bloc, the liberal pro-business Free Democrats (FDP) and environmentalist Greens raises the prospect of a new election and casts doubt about

German Chancellor Angela Merkel of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) during the exploratory talks about forming a new coalition government in Berlin, Germany, November 19, 2017

her future after 12 years in power.

Merkel, 63, said she was sceptical about ruling in a minority government, telling ARD television: “My point of view is that new elections would be the better path.” Her plans did not include being chancellor in a minority government, she

said after meeting President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.

Steinmeier said Germany was facing the worst governing crisis in the 68-year history of its postWorld War Two democracy and pressed all parties in Parliament “to serve our country” and try to form a government. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Chile election: Conservative Piñera to Philanthropist, Uber face Socialist Guillier in run-off join forces for hurricane

C

onservative Sebastián Piñera has won the first round of Chile’s presidential poll, but failed to avoid a run-off.

With almost all the votes counted, the 67-year-old billionaire has 36.6 per cent, electoral officials say.

Piñera, who was President from 2010 to 2014, will now face Socialist contender Alejandro Guillier in the second round on December 17.

Incumbent leader Michelle Bachelet is unable to seek re-election under Chile’s Constitution.

In all, eight candidates were standing in the presidential race.

Guillier won 22.7 per cent of the vote. He is a former journalist and the candidate from Bachelet’s left-wing Nueva Mayoría coalition.

The 64-year-old pledged to continue a series of liberal reforms launched by Bachelet.

Not far behind Guillier was leftwing candidate Beatriz Sánchez with 20.3 per cent of the vote, a much better result than polls had suggested.

Sánchez will not go through to the second round, but her supporters could give Guillier a lead over Piñera if they

relief in Puerto Rico

F

In the second round, voters will now have to choose between Sebastián Piñera (left) and Alejandro Guillier

transfer their votes to the Socialist candidate on December 17.

Sánchez has not yet said whether she will endorse Guillier but she has been scathing about Piñera.

She said a second term in office for Piñera would be “a step back for the country”.

In 2010, he became Chile’s first con-

servative leader since the country’s return to democracy, ending two decades of uninterrupted centre-left rule.

During the latest presidential campaign Piñera managed to unite Chile’s conservative wing, and enjoys the backing of the business community.

He represents the right-wing Chile Vamos coalition. (Excerpt from BBC News)

intech entrepreneur and disruptive philanthropist Mark Curry has announced a partnership with global technology company Uber, designed to improve the distribution of food, water, and other needed supplies to Puerto Ricans impacted by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in September.

The new alliance will streamline the delivery of life-saving resources to individuals, community groups, relief organisations, and faith-based charities that serve residents in the San Juan metro area and outlying municipalities on the island.

Since Hurricane Maria made landfall more than 50 days ago, many of Puerto Rico’s 3.4 million residents are without drinkable water, cell

service, electricity, and basic human needs. Distribution of aid has been deeply hampered by the damage to infrastructure and communications, limited power, and lack of fuel availability. Curry believes partnering with Uber will dramatically improve the movement of desperately-needed supplies through the island.

“It has been devastating to witness the destruction caused by Hurricane Irma and Maria,” he said. “We have been working to address the greatest needs on the island and I am very grateful to Uber for this partnership and their dedication to help providing basic nutrition and clean drinking water to those impacted by these disasters.

(Excerpt from Caribbean360)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

TuesDAY, november 21, 2017

ARCHIE

Share your feelings, but listen to what others have to (March 21say as well. Compromise will April 19) encourage better relationships and a chance to make changes that will result in additional benefits.

ARIES

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

dilbert

If you share your feelings with someone facing similar circumstances, together you will find a way to overcome any dilemma. A partnership will lead to new beginnings and opportunities.

Don’t be fooled by a sales GEMINI (May 21- pitch or someone trying to June 20) take advantage of you emotionally or financially. Be disciplined when it comes to money matters.

Take a different approach to the way you run your home (June 21- or do your job. Listen to what July 22) youngsters have to say. The insight provided will help you make an important decision.

CANCER

Peanuts

You’ll be torn between LEO what you want to do and what (July 23- you must do. Preparation and Aug. 22) organisation will give you the chance to keep your promises and fulfil your dreams.

Look for alternative soluVIRGO tions. Learn from past mis(Aug. 23- takes. Choose sincerity and Sept. 22) integrity over empty promises. Aim for greater stability and a healthier lifestyle.

Nurture important relationships.

Don’t force your will on LIBRA (Sept. 23- others or let anyone take adOct. 23) vantage of you. Compromise will lead to the type of equality that you want in your important relationships.

Calvin and Hobbes

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

solution for LAST PUBLISHED Puzzle

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Don’t get angry when you can get busy. If there is something you want to accomplish, make choices that will allow you the freedom to do so. Invest time and money in yourself.

If you share your ideas, SAGITTARIUS you’ll discover you have more (Nov. 23- support and backup than you Dec. 21) thought. Organize what you want to see happen and pursue your goals with discipline, integrity and intelligence.

If you share your CAPRICORN thoughts and feelings, it (Dec. 22- will help clear up any misJan. 19) conceptions someone has about you or your motives.

Physical change will boost your morale.

It’s up to you to bring AQUARIUS about change. Go beyond the (Jan. 20- call of duty to stand out and Feb. 19) make a statement. Use your intelligence and discipline to achieve your goal.

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

Your intuition will not PISCES (Feb. 20- let you down. Trust in your March 20) gut feeling, regardless of what someone tells you.

Concentrate on your goals and personal endeavours. Invest in yourself and your ideas.

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017

I

19

Sri Lanka hold on for draw after Kohli masterclass

ndia’s captain Virat Kohli staved off the threat of defeat before their fast bowlers ensured the hosts finished on a high in the drawn opening test against Sri Lanka in an enthralling final day at the Eden Gardens on Monday.

Chasing an improbable target of 231 in little more than a session, the tourists were reeling on 75 for seven before the umpires ruled the light too poor to continue in the final session of the match.

With rain washing out most of the first two days in the match, it was a stunning comeback from the world’s top-ranked test side who were tottering at 79-6 in their first innings at one stage.

Kohli propped up his side’s batting on the final day with an unbeaten 104 to register his 18th test hundred, and 50th across formats, after paceman Suranga Lakmal’s inspired spell in the first session gave Sri Lanka hope of a maiden test win in India.

India, however, rode out the storm before declaring their second innings on 352 for eight immediately after Kohli hit a six to get to three figures against Sri Lanka, who have failed to win in 17 away tests against the hosts.

India seamer

50-over format, was given out leg before to Lakmal on 72 but survived on review after replays confirmed a thin edge off his bat.

In his 119-ball knock, Kohli hit 12 fours and two sixes, the second off Lakmal over wide long-off

bringing up his century.

He went down on one knee and roared in delight with a clenched fist towards the dressing room.

The second match in the three-test series will be played in Nagpur from Friday. (Reuters)

SCOREBOARD

Lesson 18 from the Virat Kohli school of celebrating centuries © BCCI

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who took four wickets in the first innings, picked up another four for just eight runs to take the hosts close to a win but the fading light helped Sri Lanka to avoid a crushing defeat after dominating the match for more than four days.

The 30-year-old Lakmal was the most successful bowler for Sri Lanka in the first innings with four wickets and he returned to haunt the world’s top-ranked side with a triple strike in the second.

After resuming on 171-

1, India were cruising before Lakmal got a delivery to jag back off the seam and breach KL Rahul’s defence to dismiss the right-hander for 79.

Lakmal then sent back the dependable Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane in the same over to reduce the hosts to 213-4.

Dilruwan Perera dived forward to complete a brilliant catch to dismiss Pujara for 22, while Rahane was out leg before without scoring.

Kohli, who appeared unsure of his footwork at the

start of his innings, then added 36 for the fifth wicket with Ravindra Jadeja to steady the ship before his partner perished to off-spinner Perera shortly before lunch.

R a v i c h a n d r a n Ashwin and wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha fell cheaply to all-rounder Dasun Shanaka, leaving Kohli to wriggle India out of trouble while also looking to add enough runs to take the total out of Sri Lanka’s reach.

The 29-year-old Kohli, who has 32 hundreds in the

competition,” said Jamaica Football Federation president Michael Ricketts.

“It seems to me that these games will be played mainly during the FIFA window, but teams could always play friendlies outside of the window. But overall, this competition will serve us well and smaller nations will now be exposed to playing against bigger nations within CONCACAF,” he said.

There was also approval from smaller nations as well, like Grenada and the United States Virgin Islands.

“I think it is the right way to go,” said Grenada football boss, Cheney Joseph.

“The idea of the

CONCACAF Nation's Cup, in my opinion, is a positive step for the game, as it now allows smaller nations to dream big and to work towards those dreams,” he said.

The Grenada president, though, was keen to point out that the creation of the league should also come with the assistance of FIFA and CONCACAF in getting coaches and technical support for the smaller teams.

“I am also hoping that CONCACAF and FIFA will lend their resources to some of us to develop coaches and players in our region, and so hopefully the future of this tournament in another four years should be good,” he

said.

US Virgin Islands Soccer Federation Hillaren Frederick agrees with the other football bosses, saying; “The new CONCACAF Nations League is pretty interesting and it's something everyone is looking forward

India 1st innings 172 Sri Lanka 1st innings 294 India 2nd innings (Overnight: 171-1) L. Rahul b Lakmal 79 S. Dhawan c Dickwella b Shanaka 94 C. Pujara c D. Perera b Lakmal 22 V. Kohli not out 104 A. Rahane lbw b Lakmal 0 R. Jadeja c Thirimanne b D. Perera 9 R. Ashwin b Shanaka 7 W. Saha c Samarawickrama b Shanaka 5 B. Kumar c D. Perera b Gamage 8 M. Shami not out 12 Extras (b-7 lb-1 nb-1 w-3) 12 Total (for 8 wickets declared, 88.4 overs) 352 Fall of wickets: 1-166 S. Dhawan,2-192 L. Rahul,3-213 C. Pujara,4-213 A. Rahane,5-249 R. Jadeja,6-269 R. Ashwin,7-281 W. Saha,8-321 B. Kumar Did not bat: U. Yadav Bowling: Lakmal 24.4 - 4 93 – 3, Gamage 23 - 2 - 97

– 1, Shanaka 22 - 1 - 76 3(w-2), Perera 13 - 2 - 49 – 1, Herath 6 - 1 - 29 - 0 Sri Lanka 2nd innings (Target: 231 runs) S Samarawickrama b B. Kumar 0 D Karunaratne b Shami 1 L Thirimanne c Rahane b B. Kumar 7 A Mathews lbw b U. Yadav 12 D Chandimal b Shami 20 N Dickwella lbw b B. Kumar 27 D Shanaka not out 6 D Perera b B. Kumar 0 R Herath not out 0 Extras (lb-1 nb-1) 2 Total (for 7 wickets, 26.3 overs)75 Fall of wickets: 1-0 S. Samarawickrama,2-2 D. Karunaratne,3-14 L. Thirimanne,4-22 A. Mathews,5-69 D. Chandimal,6-69 N. Dickwella,7-75 D. Perera Did not bat: S. Lakmal, L. Gamage Bowling: Kumar 11 - 8 - 8 – 4, Shami 9.3 - 4 - 34 – 2, U Yadav 5 - 0 - 25 – 1, Jadeja 1 - 0 - 7 - 0

Caribbean happy with CONCACAF’s League of Nations T

he various football associations have met the announcement of CONCACAF’s League of Nations with resounding approval.

CONCACAF President, Victor Montagliani, announced last Thursday, that the new competition will begin next September, and will be run as a three-tier promotion and relgation-based league.

“I believe it will serve the CONCACAF nations well. What is clear is that it will keep the countries active and this will be an opportunity to market your football product, and you could now seek to partner with sponsors in a formal

to. The thinking and feeling from FIFA is that they want to make sure that friendly matches are more meaningful, and they want to cut back on the number of friendlies.”

“CONCACAF has a feeling that all countries need to

be playing more matches, so this new competition is going to help a lot of Caribbean countries — moreso the smaller countries like mine who don't play a lot of international matches due to financing and stuff like that,” he said. (Sportsmax)

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017

Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens Champions

C

louded with secrecy, the National Men’s Rugby squad departed these shores on Monday en-route to Mexico City for the Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens Champions which be held from November 25 to 26.

In a release from the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) which named both male and females squads, there were some shocking omissions from the men’s team, which is commonly called the Green Machine.

Top of the list of would be regular captain Ryan Gonsalves, Vallon Adams, Blaise Bailey and Godfrey Broomes, all of whom would have recently represented Guyana in the RAN fifteens championships (they finished second overall to United States South ) and did so commendably.

The Squad listed in the release read: Dwayne Schroeder (Capt.)

(Guyana Defence Force), Avery Corbin (Guyana Defence Force), Patrick King (Guyana Defence Force), Rondel McArthur (Panthers), Jamal Angus (Panthers), Lancelot Adonis (Panthers), Rickford Cummings (Pepsi Hornets), Peabo Hamilton (Pepsi Hornets), Richard Staglon (Trinidad Based), Claudius Butts (Trinidad Based), Ronald Mayers

(Trinidad Based), Dominic Lespierre (England Based).

Management: John Lewis (Manager) Laurence Adonis (Coach) Philip Browne (Physio).

A source close to the GRFU explained to <<Guyana Times Sport>> on Monday that the national team training would have commenced six weeks ago, primarily on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

“Among the regulars that attended training were are Ryan Gonsalves, Dwayne Schroeder, Avery Corbin, Blaise Bailey, Rondell McArthur, Jamal Angus, Rickford Cummings, Patrick king, Godfrey Broomes”, the sourced revealed.

It was further stated, “Krista Mars, O’Neil Charles came seldom along with Ryan Dey and Kevin David to trials games. Absent were Lancelot Adonis and Osie McKenzie who was on work duties and could not make training”.

It is understood that Lancelot who is also the son of the coach (Laurence Adonis) was released and attended training last Thursday and Friday trails game at Georgetown Football Club.

“He was present for about the first week or two of the commencement of training and he’s in the final 12?’, the sourced ques-

Some notable and experienced players will not be making the trip to Mexico

tioned.

“How could Lancelot Adonis make the squad in front of players who are training and playing through the preparation for this tournament?”

However, the release from the Union stated, “With 2018 beckoning as an extremely active international year and with the goal of rotating its experienced players to best ensure that its National sevens and fifteens teams are adequately stocked and the Nation well represented”.

The championships will also be serving as qualifiers for the World Cup,

Commonwealth Games and Central American and Caribbean Games in 2018, with Guyana men being the number one ranked team and Caribbean defending champions despite their despite their loss in the final to Canada 5-52 in Trinidad and Tobago last year November.

Guyana who are in pool A will meet the force of their counterparts from Barbados and Cayman Islands. Pool B pits together Jamaica, Bermuda and Dominican Republic while Pool C contains the host along with Trinidad and Tobago, Curacao and British Virgin Islands.

The men’s competition

on day 1 will be a pool round robin, with seeding based on the 2016 standings. On day one, the top two teams in each pool go through to the play-off in two further pools and the remaining four teams will play off in a separate round robin tournament. The format allows for 6 teams after day one to be in contention to win the tournament.

Meanwhile, the Women’s team will depart today and consist of Collette Hope (Capt.) (Pepsi Hornets), Tricia Munroe (Pepsi Hornets), Alisha Mentore (Pepsi Hornets), Latoya Cordis (Pepsi Hornets), Cloetta Dublin (Pepsi

Hornets), Kean Andrews (Pepsi Hornets), Mandy Browne ( Guyana Defence Force), Abioce Heywood (Guyana Defence Force), Sasha James (Guyana Defence Force), Shonette Mc Farlane (Guyana Defence Force), Sabola Gray (Yamaha Caribs), Cindy Fraser (Police Falcons).

Management: Petal Adams (Manager), Theodore Henry (Coach), Abiola Blair (Physio).

The female team finished fifth overall in the championships and fourth in the Caribbean after winning the “bowl final” 17-12 against Bermuda will certainly hope they can top the six other teams.

The other teams will come from Mexico, Bermuda, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Trinidad & Tobago and French Guiana. On the women’s side, a round robin tournament over two days will take place, where every team will play each other (3 matches each day per team) and final positions will be based on the standings.

Meanwhile, the release also saw the union express their gratitude to the President David Granger for intervening and affording the National teams the chance to participate at this high level along with contributions from the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), Noble House Sea foods.

GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power U-17 League – East Bank

KK Warriors thrash Herstelling Raiders to end third

K

Kuru Kururu Warriors’ Jonathan Bailey

uru Kururu Warriors FC sealed the third place on completion of their quota of matches in the second round and overall when they brought their GFF/ NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power National Under-17 Intra Association League /East Bank Football Association sojourn to an end on Saturday last at the Grove Playfield.

The Linden Soesdyke Highway based side trounced Herstelling Raiders FC 4-2 on account of a hat-trick off the boot of Jonathan Bailey who orchestrated their comeback in style after giving up the lead to Herstelling. In the process, Bailey took his tally of goals in the league to nine (9).

Ronaldo Rodrigues who netted both goals for

Herstelling had given them just five (5) minutes into the match with the Warriors still settling in, they took some time to do so but eventually got the equaliser in the 35th minute when Bailey tucked in his first.

But when the Warriors tied the scores, the Raiders quickly restored their one goal advantage when Rodrigues completed his brace one minute after the Warriors had neutralised their initial advantage.

The break came with Herstelling still ahead but that lead was again neutralised when Bailey again found the back of the nets three minutes after the resumption, in the 48th minute. Thereafter, it was all one way traffic as the Warriors kept the Raiders at bay as they netted two unanswered goals.

Bailey handed his side the lead for the first time in the match on 72 minutes and three minutes later, the preverbal icing on the cake came with their fourth and final goal, scored

by Neville Chung.

It was a well put together win by the Linden Soesdyke Highway lads but in reflection they would be somewhat disappointed after being ahead of Highway United on goal difference

at the end of the first round but produced one less win (5) in round-two which allowed the debutants Highway United (played as Circuit Ville Jaguars in round-one) to edge them to the second place by a mere two points.

The final two matches of the league would be contested on Sunday at the same venue from 10:00hrs when Agricola face off with Friendship to be followed by a clash between Diamond United and M o c h a Champs.

T h e presentation of prizes will follow those matches.

sports

CLASSIFIED ADS 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

EDUCATION Jean offers courses in dress-making, curtain designs, floral arrangement, cake decorating 670-2653/ 638-8449

JOB OPENING Administrative Assistant for Pro business Builders, we are looking for a highly motivated person to assist a corporate executive and be a part of our team.

Your spoken and written English are superb. Send resume to jannessa.kalloo@probusinessbuilders.com

NOTICE With regards to the notice of Sunday October 8th, 2017 placed by one Raymond Anthony also known as Raymond Ramos who is claiming prescriptive rights to both properties at 3128 Buttercup Place, South Ruimveldt Park and 464 Kiskadee Drive, South Ruimveldt Gardens, take notice that this claim by Raymond Anthony/Ramos is totally false and incorrect. The only person who has absolute rights and interest to both properties is Mr. Sydney Bunbary.

property for sale Two-storey concrete, 4-bedroom, one self-contained, two bathrooms, toilet. 2320 Tuschen, E.B.E. $20M, price negotiable.

Phone 664-9310 or 626-8190.

taxi services GR Taxi, 24 hours. Phone: 2257878, 219-5000 or 227-2100

WANTED Maid Needed. Contact Tony: 218-0167 Waitress for bar 612-2522

spiritualist Lalita Mahadevi Spiritualist Center.

Baba is specialised in name and date of birth reading, patra reading and book opening. He is an expert in removing black magic, enmity, bad luck and gives permanent protections. Solutions will be given to love, health, marriage, business, sexual problems and much more. Call him on 660-1938 or 618-6569. Take that number again: 660-1938 or 618-6569

Business upliftment, marriage problems, pregnancy, remove blockage impotent and many more. Tel: 6121608, 683-5228 Surinamese spiritualist. Resolving all problems. Money, love, blockage etc. Call 651-9663/600-7719.

Classified Ads $5+VAT per word

Call:

223-7230 Ext 50

21

Wilson returns

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017 | www.guyanatimesgy.com

as head of East Bank Football

F

ollowing the Annual General Meeting and Elections of the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) on Sunday last at the Kuru Kururu Youth Centre, Linden Soesdyke Highway, Franklin Wilson was returned as President.

Elections which were conducted by Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Technical Development Officer, Lyndon France saw Kevin Anthony and Noel Harry retaining their posts and respective First and Second Vice Presidents.

Also returning was Secretary, Wayne Francois.

New additions are Ms. Dawn Joseph (Treasurer), Ms. Abigale Scott (Assistant Secretary/Treasurer) and Devnon Winter, Dillion Roberts, Orein Angoy and Owan Wills as Ordinary Members. One Ordinary Member position is still outstanding due to the absence of the proposed individual; this position would be filled subsequently as per constitution.

France in remarks congratulated the affiliated EBFA clubs for displaying a high degree of maturity and collectivity with regards to proposing and ratifying a single list of persons that would continue the development of the sport on the East Bank.

Wilson in response expressed the association’s gratitude to France, Mr.

The new EBFA Executive Committee from right, Wayne Francois, Dawn Joseph, Noel Harry, Franklin Wilson, Kevin Anthony, Abigale Scott, Devnon Winter, Orein Angoy and Owan Wills

Richard Groden and the GFF for its support in overseeing and conducting the elections. The President also thanked the clubs for reposing a high degree of trust in himself and fellow executive members to continue running the affairs of the EBFA for another two years.

The meeting was brought up to speed with the progress of the association ever since the last AGM and elections in October 2015 at the same venue by way of an address by the President and the Secretary’s Activity Report.

The Audited Financial Statement, done by W.E James Consultancy Audit, Accounting & Taxation was also presented to the AGM and subsequently approved.

Continued emphasis would be placed on youth development throughout the association where the EBFA would also be organizing its own tournament other than those provided by the federation the likes of the GFF/NAMILCO Intra Association and the Pele Alumni Under-15.

The NAMILCO league which is nearing its end has been played for two rounds attracting a total of eight clubs. The Pele U-15 will commence shortly. Also being played is the 2nd annual Ralph Green sponsored Under-11 league/KO competition which has also attracted eight teams.

Despite not being able to field a team for the competition, the EBFA presented 15 association branded tee shirts as well as a brand-

ed ball to the Kuru Kururu Warriors FC as a means of encouragement for the club which has been excelling on and off the field of play.

The EBFA would continue to work closely with the GFF to ensure it achieves fully trained coaches at each club as well as increase the referee’s pool apart from having club administrators exposed to the relevant training that would assist in the achievement of properly functioning and effective clubs.

All the clubs were complimented for their efforts competing in tournaments; Highway United, on the verge of receiving full membership and Kuru Kururu Warriors were commended for their unflinching investment in ensuring participation in competitions.

Meanwhile, the association will be running off a one-day 5-a-side female tournament to help stimulate and encourage the development of the female arm of the sport. Kuru Kururu Warriors has the lone female team in the association.

This scenario is expected to change following this tournament which would be held at Kuru Kururu with one bicycle at stake for the Most Valuable Player apart from trophies and medals for the top two teams.

The aforementioned items have been donated by the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club which also presented a number of hand rags to the association that were handed over to the clubs on Sunday last.

CONCACAF Women’s football activities day hailed a success

–Trim, Smith cop U-15 and U-17 MVP accolades

N

ational U15 member, Jaladi Trim, and U17 Tiandi Smith were the Most Valuable Players (MVPs) of their respective categories in the 3rd annual CONCACAF Women’s Football Day hosted by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) last Saturday at the National Training Centre, Leonora.

The programme, held from 11:00 to 17:00hrs, saw The U15 competition being won by Kwakwani while Senior Fruta Conquerors won the U17 edition. The participants were girls from across Guyana inclusive of Kwakwani, Lethem, East Bank, Georgetown, Bartica, Orealla, Berbice and West Demerara.

Trim, captain of U15 Kwakwani Strikers, was

was also proud of her team.

She said “we knew what we

Some female players going through drills on Saturday

proud of her team’s performance and had encouraging words for her peers: “I am grateful that we won today. I think if more fe-

males showed up to more ATC games they would be successful.” U17 MVP, Tiandi Smith, while being thrilled for her nomination,

were capable of and we did our best while having fun.”

Outstanding Player Awards went to the Lady Jags’

Kendra Thomas and U15 Fruta Conquerors’ Hasha Holder.

The Women’s Day featured 12 female teams and Grass Roots participants who competed, learned and laughed together under the supervision of the GFF Technical Staff. The programme began with Grass Roots exercises then proceeded to U15 and U17 round robin matches. The U15 matches were among girls from Kwakwani, Lethem, East Bank, Georgetown Academy Training Centre (ATC), Bartica, Orealla, Junior Fruta Conquerors and New Amsterdam United.

Meanwhile, the U17 competition was among Senior Fruta Conquerors, West Demerara and the U17 Lady Jags. A special Grass Roots game was also played among the participants.

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

Super50

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017

Forgotten Youth Battle for Foundation spots gets underway today – players urged to make themselves available punch way to T GBA U-16 title he Jaguars One Day 50 Overs League will bowl off today at four venues across the country, namely the Imam Bacchus ground, the Everest Cricket Club ground, Albion Community Centre ground and Port Mourant Community Centre ground.

According to a release by the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) on Monday, “the 50-overs league comes on the heels of a resounding successful Jaguars’ 3 Day League, which witnessed Essequibo emerging champions.

However, the Jaguars One Day League, is expected to create its usual hype with a number of players seeking to gain selection to the national team.

With players seeking to impress the national selectors by raking in outstanding and consistent performances, coupled with the cricket board’s 50 Overs policies, the league is expected to be highly competitive.

The Cricket Board authorities in Guyana, have mandated that all players must make themselves available to participate in the 2017 Jaguars One Day 50 Overs League, in order to be considered for selection to the Guyana Jaguars squad which will participate in the 2018 Cricket West Indies (CWI) 50-overs Tournament which commences towards the end of January, 2018.

He release further stated , “players who do not make themselves available to participate in a match or matches during the Jaguars’ 50-over League will not be considered for selection to the 2018 Guyana Jaguars team”.

This ruling will be categorically upheld, except for wholly acceptable reasons such as players’ injury,

Ricardo Adams

which injury report whether verbal or otherwise must be accompanied by a medial from an approved doctor of Cricket Guyana Inc and/or GCB. Another acceptable reason will be where, players who are participating in the current Regional 4 Day tournament are given flexibility and leverage to rest from a specified number of matches by CGI and/or GCB. In this case the players who returned on Monday have been given the option to rest from the first round of matches only matches. The other wholly acceptable reasons will be de-

termined by the League Committee on its presentation to such personnel. The League Committee was set up to govern – organize, monitor and promote the 50- overs league.

The franchise team which finishes with the most points at the end of the preliminary rounds, will gain the right to play in the finals on December 30 while the second and third placed teams on conclusion of the preliminary rounds will meet in the play offs on December 28 .

West Demerara: Akshaya Persaud (Captain), Tagenarine Chanderpaul (V/Captain), Romario Shepherd, Raymond Reifer, Richie Looknauth, Tevin Imlach, Safraz Esau, Mahendra Dhanpaul, Vickash Dhaniram, Chandrika Persaud, Keshram Seyhodan, Travis Persaud, Deoram Chandrabir, Naveed Alli, Ronaldo Renee, Ganesh Narine, Yutesh Dhanpaul, Ewart Samuels,

Steven Jacobs Jamal Gomes and Dikwan Murray.

The coaches are Rayon Griffith and Dhanpaul. They will be ably assisted at relevant times by Omar Hossein.

East Coast Demerara: Ameer khan, Bhaskar Yadram, Rajendra Chandrika, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Joshua Persaud, Kamesh Yadram, Kumar Bishundyal, Ramnarine Chatura, Suresh Boodhoo, Gavin Morah, Royston Simon, Anthony Ifill, Waslim Haslim, Brian Sattaur, Mahendra Genarine, Kevin Kowlessar, Premchand Sukhdeo, Steven Ramdass, Suhadeo Ramlakhan, Dambuka Ngundo, Pradesh Balkishun and Cordel Mars.

The coaches are Esuan Crandon and Jitlal Jowharilall. They will be ably assisted at relevant times by Latchman Yadram.

Essequibo: Anthony Adams, Ricardo Adams, Keemo Paul, Kevon Boddie, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Akinie Adams, Kevin Gordon, Tulsieram Premnauth, Joshua Jones, Avenish Persaud, Kemol Savory, Mark Williams, Leoryan Ramlakhan, Parmesh Parsotam, Vijai Surujpaul, Nealand Codogan, Ricardo Peters, Nokta Moses, Chaitram Persaud and Royan Fredricks. The coaches are Michael Franco and Ryan Hercules.

Upper Corentyne: Rajiv Ivan, Andy Mohan, Demetri Cameron, Samuel Kishnasammy, Shawn Pereira, Kandasammy Surujnarine, Lloydel Lewis, David Latchaya,

Christopher Barnwell Adrian Sukwah, Omesh Mathura, Parmeshwar Chatterpaul, Joshua Ramsammy, Troy Gonsalves, Chandrashekar Arjune, Balchand Baldeo, Totaran Rajaram, Arrif Chan, Dorasammi Mahadeo, Veramootoo Senwasane and Karan Arjpaul. The coaches are Leslie Solomon and Michael Newland.

Lower Corentyne: Royston Crandon, Jonathan foo, Seon Hetmyer, Devon clements, Gajanand Singh, Veerasammy Permaul, Kassim Khan, Raun Johnson, Nail Smith, Kevlon Anderson, hakeem Hinds, Jason Sinclair, Sharaz Ramcharran, Alex Algoo, Omar Weatherspoon, Waheid Edwards, suresh Dhani, Eugene La Fleur, Anthony D’ Andrade and Linden Austin. The coaches are Julian Moore and Kwasie Maltay.

Georgetown: Leon Johnson (Captain), Christopher Barnwell (Vice Captain), Robin Bacchus, Raymond Perez, Shenroy Barrington, Derwin Christian, Andrew Light, Ramaal Lewis, Omesh Dhaniram, Dexter Solomon, Ovid Ricardson, Paul Wintz, Steven Sankar, Ashmead Nedd, Kellon Carmichael, Devon Lord, Martin Pestano-Belle, Gajanan Suknanan, Travis Mohamed, Andre Stoll and Raj Nanan. The coaches are Clive Grimmond and Winston Smith.

They will be ably assisted at relevant times by Bharat Mangru.

Upper Demerara/East Bank: Ronaldo Alimohamed, Steven Jacobs, Sherfane Rutherford, Vishual Singh, Sachin Singh, David Francis, Marc Nicholson, Quazim Yusuf, Irfaan Alli, Travon France, Quincy Grimmond, Keon Morris, Mortin Salick, Colin Benn, Dwayne Dillon, Sagar Hathiranmi, Terrence Decunha, Christopher Ragnauth, Daniel Barker, Vinaoh Rampersaud and Romain Muniram.The manager and coach are respectively Rohan Sarjoo and Orin Bailey.

West Berbice: Krishandat Ramoo, Sherwyn Mc Pherson, Steffon adams, Raffel Estraido, Andrew Dutchin, Avishkar Sewkarran, Leon Andrews, Keyron Fraser, Renision Mitchell, Derrick Mc Calmon, Keith Fraser, Quacey Mc Pherson, Stephen Harris, Rendell Bobb, Arthley Bailey, Ceon Glasgow, Kelvin Sinclair, Javid Karim, wakar Hassan and Shamal Angel. Manager is David Black and the Coach Andre Percival.

Part of the high-octane action on Saturday

F

istic fury and hard fought battles were the highlights of the 2017 Guyana Boxing Association’s (GBA) national under-16 championships held at the Andrew “Six Head” Lewis gym in Albouystown on Saturday. At the tourney, the Forgotten Youth Foundation Boxing gym came out victorious, while the Savannah Boxing Gym’s (SBG) performances were memorable.

Technical Director at GBA, Terrence Poole noted that the 16-bout, one-day tournament which “rumbled” off on Saturday afternoon was a fitting way to close off junior amateur boxing in the country for the year, since all the fights exhibited by the 38 athletes were very exciting.

The Forgotten Youth Foundation (FYF) won 11 of the 16 fights in convincing fashion ahead of the other five gyms that participated for the championship trophy.

Julicia Rodney of Savannah Boxing Gym based in Lethem won the lone female fight. Poole noted that there is a great need to get more females involved in amateur boxing and this can be an opening. The technical director further pointed out that the tournament was a big success and explained that it is very possible that in the future Guyana will be represented by one of the boxers from the tournament.

The list of Saturday’s bouts: 1. 56-60lbs Vickacy Graham (FYF) defeated Michael Mangal (FYF) 2. 135-140lbs Shemar Morrison (FYF) defeated Emmanuel Pompey of Young Achievers (YA) 3. 60-64lbs Joshua Tamambaran of Rose Hall Jammers (RHJ) defeated Moses Crawford (FYF) 4. 75-79lbs Sean Graham (FYF) won by unanimous decision against Wayne Castello (FYF) 5. 85-89lbs Dwayne Baptitse (FYF) won by walkover against Elijah Waldron of Pocket Rocket Boxing Gym (PRBG) 6. 90-94lbs Richard Howard (FYF) defeated Kamil Yahya (PRBG) 7. 100-104lbs Travis Inverray (FYF) defeated Jadan Graham (YA) 8. 105-110lbs Patrick Harvey (FYF) won by split decision against Francis Sukhu (RHJ) 9. 125-129lbs Jaqwan Mild (FYF) defeated Jamal Mercier (YA) 10. 115-119lbs Raphael Sebastian (RHJ) defeated mark Crawford (FYF) 11. 15-157lbs Female Julicia Rodney (SBG) defeated Abiola Jackman (FYF) 12. 155-162lbs Javon Thomas defeated Kevin Tacoordeen (SBG) 13. 170-178lbs Joshua Corbin (Carryl) defeated Brian Harris (FYF) 14. 180-187lbs Daniel Dey (FYF) defeated Shauquan Michael (RHJ) 15. 56-60lbs Vickacy Graham (FYF) defeated Shanquan Deen (FYF) 16. 135-140lbs Shemar Morrison (FYF) defeated Troy Nero (SBG)

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesDAY, november 21, 2017

Guinness Football

23

promises to be battle of best teams – Baptiste

B

anks DIH Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste is optimistic at the level of intensity the Georgetown zone of the Guinness 'Greatest of the Streets’ Football Championships will bring for its enormous fan base after the 2017 edition was officially launched on Monday at the Thirst Park Sports Club.

The play-off rounds were held on Friday evening at East Ruimveldt Community Centre ground, commonly called California Square and saw a massive turnout as over 80 teams battled for 16 spots to make the final 32.

The Brand Manager viewed those teams as some of the best which will should create an intense battle ground for top honours.

Baptiste also explained the move to return into community areas come as a result of them “aiming to give back to communities”. He noted that street football has been an avenue to identify talents in the world, especially in England, noting, “Banks DIH Limited remains committed to social activities in the communities. I wish all the teams the best of luck and show that your community is made of more.”

It was furthered revealed the winning team and the company will work

Three Peat Promotions' Rawle Welch (second from left) collecting the symbolic ball from Colours Boutique representative Creanna Damon in the presence of Referees Coordinator Wayne Griffith (left): Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste (second from left) and Banks DIH Limited Communication Director and tournament consultant Troy Peters

in partnership to implement social projects.

Co-director of Threepeat promotions Rawle Welch commended teams for their discipline shown thus far and hope they can continue in the same manner.

He also thanked the company for the affording his organization the opportunity to coordinate the championship, declaring that the record number of team submissions for the recently concluded playoff section, indicates that the event is growing in popularity.

Welch further added that he expects a very competitive tournament, affirming that many of the

teams, possess the necessary talents to emerge victorious.

Colours Boutique representative, Creanna Damon during brief remarks affirmed, that her company is once again proud to be associated with the tournament.

The event will feature new rules. The most important addition will be occur in the final three minutes, as any goal scored during that period, will result in the team being awarded two goals. It is called a ‘Guinness Goal’.

Similarly, each team will only be allowed two fouls per half, with the third infraction and every foul thereafter, resulting in

a penalty kick being award-

ed to the opposition.

Also, if any player intentionally kicks the ball outside of the arena, based on the judgement of the referee, that individual will have to leave the match for three minutes, effectively reducing their team to three players for that period.

The event which will commence on Wednesday at California Square, comprises 32 teams battling in an initial round-robin format, comprising of eight groups of four teams.

Upon the conclusion of the group stage, the top two finishers from each pool, will advance to the round of 16 elimination section.

Winner of the overall

event w i l l walk-away with $500,000 and the championship trophy along with automatic qualification for the National Playoffs.

They will also receive champion uniforms for their participation in the National Playoffs. This will be afforded to all zone winners.

Similarly, the event winner will also secure a community based project that will be funded by Banks DIH Limited.

On the other hand, the runner-up, third and fourth placed finishers will receive $250,000, $200,000 and $100,000 respectively.

Group Assignments Group-A-Sparta Boss, Channel-9 Warriors, Ol Skool Ballers and Gaza Squad.

Group-B-Leopold Street, Albouystown-A, Bad-a-Yard and GTI Ballers.

Group-C-North East La Penitence, Festival City, New Market Street and Kingston.

Group-D-Back Circle, Albouystown-B, Trap Squad and Rising Stars.

Group-E-Gold is Money, North Ruimveldt, Smyth Street and Judgement Yard.

Group-F-Broad Street, Queen Street Tigerbay, California Square and Stabroek Ballers.

Group-G-Tucville, Bent Street, Sophia Bullies and Norton Street.

Group-H-Future Stars, Alexander Village, Upsetters and East Front Road.

Elite League Season III

Fruta Conquerors tested

by NA United in 1-0 win

– Tigers, GDF battle to draw

walk away with a 1-0 victory and three points. Veteran striker Eon Alleyne pounced on a defensive lapse from the Berbicians and buried his chance with much aplomb in the 78th minute to the relief of the few supporters in the stand.

In the second match of the evening last season’s table topper, Guyana Defence Force (GDF) FC came up against Western Tigers FC in a spirited match that end-

ed in a 1-1 stalemate.

It was an enthralling first half as GDF first struck through Carlus Adams in the 13th minute only for Andrew Murray Jr. to respond for Western Tigers in the 27th minute.

From there on it was end to end action as both teams created chances only for the finishing touches to be thwarted. The game remained in a deadlock for the rest of the 90 minutes and a

Action between Fruta Conquerors FC and NA United FC

D

espite a cloud looming over the start of Season III of the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF), it officially kicked off on Sunday evening over at the National Track and Field Facility, Leonora, West Coast Demerara with two matches.

Fruta Conquerors FC took on newly promoted New Amsterdam United in the first match of the tournament and was made to toil in the first half.

Maybe it was nerves or maybe it was just an off day but young midfielder Jermaine Garrett was subbed off with just 35 min-

utes gone in the first half as he continually lost possession and misplaced passes; he was replaced by the seasoned Dwayne Lindie who immediately settled his side.

However NA United continued to make life miserable for Fruta who would eventually find the back of the net late in the game to

Action between GDF FC and Western Tigers

as a result both teams had to settle for a point each.

The league will continue on Friday in the mining town of Linden at the McKenzie Sports Club (MSC) Ground with two fixtures.

At 18:00h Buxton United FC will face off against Ann’s Grove in an East Coast Demerara battle; that match will be followed

by Victoria Kings taking on Linden based side Milerock FC at 20:00h.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2017

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens Champions

Pg 20

Shocking omissions in Green Machine’s squad Dwayne Schroeder (with ball) will be the new captain of the Green Machine

Guinness

Football promises to be battle of best teams – Baptiste Pg 23

Thirty-two of Georgetown’s best street futsal teams will begin an intense battle for top honours

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.