Guyana Times December 1, 2018

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Countdown to Christmas

Sacked sugar workers receive final severance payment P7

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 3763

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Saturday, December 1, 2018

PRICE

Ali innocent until proven guilty – Harmon

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

RFH’s Scotiabank takeover unhealthy for financial sector P9 – Jagdeo

Page 3

...says due process must be followed for MP, PAC chair

Georgetown gets new Mayor, Deputy

Page 9

Newly elected Mayor Ubraj Narine

Businessman P2 gets 36 months for $26M fraud

Newly elected Deputy Mayor Alfred Mentore

CoI report into City Hall handed over

Govt alone with its guns cannot reduce crime – P16 pastor

…rehabilitation programmes must be set up for ex-offenders

Granger to P11 return to Cuba on Tuesday for further treatment

CoI recommends disciplinary actions against King, senior staff ...for misconduct, incompetence

Page 16

Retire Justice Cecil Kennard presents a copy of the CoI report into City Hall to Chairman of the Local Government Commission, Mortimer Mingo on Friday

Tower Suites owner Teen stabbed extradited to US in row over Teenage love triangle

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…to face drug trafficking and money laundering charges

13-year-old girl

Less rainfall P15 expected over next 3 months – Hydromet Office …negative effects may be experienced late December

2 news

SaturdAY, december 1, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Teenage love triangle Tower Suites owner extradited Teen stabbed over 13-year-old girl A to US …to face drug trafficking and money laundering charges

Tower Suites owner Shervington “Big Head” Lovell

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ower Suites owner Shervington “Big Head” Lovell, who was arrested in Jamaica on drug trafficking charges in late October, has been extradited to the United States.

Lovell and two others were arrested at the Normal Manley International Airport in Jamaica, after arriving on a Fly Jamaica flight from Guyana. The trio have been extradited to the US, where they are expected to face additional drug trafficking and money laundering charges.

Lovell’s arrest is part of a collaborative effort with Jamaica, Suriname, the Netherlands and the US A vessel -- property of Lovell -- which is suspected to have been used by the businessman to ship illicit drugs from Jamaica to St Maarten, has also been intercepted.

The hotelier had been under the radar of local Police since 2010, when he was being investigated for a series of executions.

However, charges were never brought against him for those allegations.

teen boy is listed in critical condition after he was stabbed outside of the Berbice High School (BHS) in New Amsterdam, during an argument over a 13-year-old girl.

The injured teen has been identified as 17-year-old Paul Sahadeo of Bloomfied, Corentyne, Berbice.

According to reports received, a 13-year-old girl from the Berbice High School reportedly telephoned her 17-year-old boyfriend to pick her up after school.

Guyana Times understands that Sahadeo arrived at the school with two other teenage friends in a car.

Upon seeing the 13-year-old girl enter the car, a 15-year-old boy from the

same school – who is allegedly the other boyfriend – approached the vehicle and an argument ensued. The argument quickly escalated into a scuffle between the two ‘boyfriends’.

Sahadeo, who was sitting in the

car, reportedly whipped out an ice pick and gave it to the girl’s 17-year-old boyfriend but another student who is a friend of the younger boyfriend, took away the ice pick and dealt Sahadeo seven stabs to his body, including once to his left temple.

Blood began to spray from his wounds which caused panic. The injured teen was rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit. The child who allegedly stabbed Sahadeo has since been released into the custody of his parents as Police continue their investigations. The injured teen’s condition is being monitored by both the hospital staff and Police.

Businessman gets 36 months for $26M fraud

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ifty-seven-year-old Clayton Allen of South Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, the proprietor of Micro Business Developers and Consultancy Company, was on Friday sentenced to 36 months’ imprisonment by Magistrate Leron Daly for forging several cheques to the total value of $26 million.

The magistrate found Allen guilty after a lengthy trial at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Allen was initially charged with the offence of falsely obtaining $26 million worth of motor vehicles from Jeetendra Ram of Fantasy Auto Sales between December 2 and December 13, 2016 by forging a Republic Bank Ltd manager’s cheque in favour of Fantasy Auto Sales.

The prosecution is contending that, during that period, the parties

Clayton Allen

had entered into an agreement of sale which stated that Allen would purchase six motor cars from the virtual complainant, and that he would use a

manager’s cheque to compensate the large sum.

According to the facts presented, when Ram decided to cash the cheque, he realized that it was forged.

The matter was reported to the Police, and Allen was charged with the offence.

In October 2017, Allen was slapped with several additional fraud charges.

Prior to those charges, he was sentenced to 46 months’ imprisonment

by Magistrate Judy Latchman, after she had found him guilty of defrauding Kizzy Shepherd of $415,000 by falsely pretending that he was in a position to grant her a $3.4 million loan between November 3, 2016 and February 8, 2017, knowing same to be false.

Allen was subsequently granted bail after he appealed the matter.

news

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saturdAY, december 1, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, December 1 – 13:00h-14:30h and Sunday, December 2 – a night retraction at 01:00h and a day retraction from 13:30h-15:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, December 1 – 12:00h-13:30h and Sunday, December 2 – 13:05h-14:35h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Sunny intervals can be expected throughout the day, with clear skies expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 21 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Ali innocent until proven guilty – Harmon – says due process must be followed for MP, PAC chair

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ven the Government, by way of Cabinet spokesperson and Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, is of the view that due process must be followed for Opposition parliamentarian Irfaan Ali when it comes to the constitutional offices he holds.

Nineteen politically trumped-up charges were on Wednesday instituted

‘innocent until proven guilty.’

“When the Parliament meets and the committee meets, the processes in the Parliament will determine that (recusing himself),” Harmon said.

“I believe that we have a system of laws in Guyana where someone is innocent until proven guilty… So in fact if there is any need for any form of action, it will be

Winds: East North-easterly to North-easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 11:48h reaching a maximum height of 2.30 metres.

Minister of State Joseph Harmon

Low Tide: 05:11h and 17:48h reaching minimum heights of 0.90 metre and 0.94 metre respectively.

Former Housing Minister and Opposition frontbencher Irfaan Ali

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against Ali by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), in a move the parliamentary Opposition and the International Centre for Democracy (ICD) have criticised and deemed “victimisation of a political opponent”.

However, Ali sits as the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which reviews the Auditor General’s reports and calls officials to account based on discrepancies the Audit Office highlights.

At his post-Cabinet press briefing on Friday, Harmon assured that Ali’s post as Chairman of the PAC is secure under the principle of

guided by that basic principle of how we act and how we behave in public life… but I would not want to venture any further comment on the matter, since it is engaging the attention of the courts,” he added.

Ali, who once served as Housing Minister under the previous Administration, was arrested at his Georgetown home at about 04:00h on Wednesday morning and taken to SOCU’s headquarters.

He was interrogated after which he was taken to the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts where the charges were read to him by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

After representation by several high profile lawyers, including former Attorney General Anil Nandlall, Priya Manikchand, Davendra Kissoon and Sase Gunraj, the Opposition Member of Parliament was released on self-bail.

Nevertheless, the arrest and subsequent charges stemmed from the sale and transfer of lands located in Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara (ECD), commonly known as “Pradoville 11”.

Political victimisation

The ICD, a non-government organisation, made up of Caribbean nationals but stationed in the New York Diaspora, subsequently expressed disappointment with the increasing evidence of “political victimisation” by the governing A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition Government against the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

“These legal manipulations to victimise political opponents at a time when peo-

ple are worried about free and fair elections in 2020 do not inspire confidence that the Government has intentions for a strengthening of democracy in Guyana,” a statement from the ICD said.

While acknowledging that it is the obligation of every Government to protect national assets and that every Government must act to prosecute those Government officials that deliberately convert national assets for personal gains, they feel the coalition has not been doing that.

“However, the behaviour of APNU/AFC in charging former Government officials since May 2015 in Guyana appears to be more of a political witch-hunt rather than a transparent and legal process consistent with protecting national assets,” it observed.

The ICD said it has monitored with dismay the worrying intensification of bullying, political harassment and intimidation in Guyana. The political victimisation carried out against senior members of the PPP and well-known supporters of that party. turn to page 7

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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, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

A despicable act

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n the morning of November 9, 2018, Guyanese woke up to the news that a Fly Jamaica plane had crashlanded at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri, resulting in at least 10 persons being injured. It later became known that the airplane, carrying 118 adults, along with two infants and an eight-member crew, took off from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport at about 02:10h destined for Toronto, Canada, but after sometime, the aircraft encountered hydraulic problems and as such, returned to Timehri where it crash-landed.

Chief Executive Officer of the airport, Ramesh Ghir, in updating the media had said the Emergency Response Plan was immediately activated. The passengers were assisted in the deplaning process and taken to safety. It should be mentioned that of those injured, one person; an elderly woman, has since succumbed. Most of the passengers were subsequently transported to their home or hotel, while arrangements were being made for them to be taken back to Canada via Caribbean Airlines.

One could only imagine the level of trauma and fear experienced by those passengers due to the unfortunate incident. However, if the trauma and fear were not enough, what was shocking and left many extremely disappointed was the fact that, in the midst of tragedy and uncertainly, some of the firefighters who were among the first to respond to the incident, were reportedly busy helping themselves with the personal property of passengers and crew. As in the case of the accident itself, the reports of theft were given international publicity in several media outlets, portraying our country in an extremely negative light.

The firefighters were supposed to have provided the much needed assistance in a timely and efficient manner.

They were supposed to be busy trying to protect life and property. If indeed the acts of theft are proven to be true, one is forced to ask what were those firefighters thinking when they decided to carry out such a despicable act at a time when passengers and crew would have just had the most frightening experience of their lives.

What is even more appalling is the fact that firefighters, who are internationally recognised as first responders, are expected to uphold humanitarian goals and practices in lifethreatening situations where persons’ lives are at risk or are endangered due to natural or man-made disasters.

The act has since been described as an act of international notoriety that puts Guyana in a bad light. A few days ago, former Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee, commenting on the incident, said to steal from crew members and passengers at a time when they had to ‘run for their lives’ from a crashed passenger airplane is a crying shame and a grave embarrassment to our country and people.

It should be mentioned four of the persons fingered in the act are now before the courts. Fire Chief Marlon Gentle has confirmed that some of the stolen items, such as electronic devices, were returned by one of the men. In addition, other items were recovered at the Timehri Fire Station.

It could be recalled that the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) Stakeholder Consultation Forum held recently at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre to address Emergency Medical Technician services (EMT) was expected to see all members within the GFS being trained in first-responder skills, in order to save lives in emergency cases. However, in light of the actions by some of the firefighters that responded to the Fly Jamaica incident, it is clear that they paid no heed to the messages.

Certainly, given the incidents of theft allegedly perpetrated on the international aircraft by the firemen, it is necessary for the GFS to take immediate steps to review its operations, in particular its hiring process, training of new recruits and more importantly, how its members respond to emergency situations as in the case of Fly Jamaica.

Moving forward, it is hoped that all necessary actions will be taken by those in authority to prevent our country from facing such an embarrassing situation in the future.

The switch to the 54-foot artificial Christmas tree at Rahaman’s Park was on Friday evening turned on to usher in the Christmas season (Adam Baksh photo)

May to raise Khashoggi killing with Saudi ruler at G20 – PM says she wants to see ‘those responsible being held to account’ as she juggles fraught diplomacy with shoring up Brexit deal on world stage

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heresa May has said en route to the G20 summit that she plans to raise the killing of Jamal Khashoggi and the situation in Yemen with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

“I am intending to speak with the crown prince of Saudi Arabia. The message that I give will be very clear... on this issue of Jamal Khashoggi but also on the issue of Yemen,” the prime minister told reporters before touching down in Buenos Aires. “[On Khashoggi’s killing] we want to see a full and transparent investigation in relation to what happened and obviously those responsible being held to account.

“On the issue of Yemen we continue to be deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation,” May said. “The long-term solution for the Yemen is a political situation and we will be encouraging all parties actually to look for that and work for that.”

Western nations are calling for an end to the Saudi-led military campaign in Yemen launched by Salman.

May has flown to Buenos Aires hoping to rescue the international reputation of her Brexit deal as she navigates a fraught diplomatic atmosphere with Saudi and Russian leaders. During the two-day summit in Buenos Aires she will hold up to six bilateral meetings with world leaders, but not with Donald Trump, who has been critical of her Brexit deal and its potential limitations on future trade.

Nor will she meet Vladimir Putin, given the frosty state of UK relations with Moscow and division among G20 leaders over how to regard Russia’s latest incursions in Ukraine.

During the flight to the summit, May said the latest incident was part of a pattern of Russian behaviour” and the UK would continue to call for sanctions. She added: “If you look at the message I gave at my Mansion House speech, Russia could take a different road, Russia could support the rules-based international system. And if it did, its position would be a different one.

It is choosing to continue with this pattern of behaviour.”

In Saudi Arabia, diplomatic relations have been testy with Salman over the killing of Khashoggi and the escalation of suffering in the war in Yemen. Downing Street sources suggested the pair would be “engaging” without officially confirming a bilateral meeting.

“We have been engaging with the Saudi government in recent weeks in the wake of the murder of Khashoggi and we have been doing so in order to deliver a message that we want full accountability and full transparency,” a senior UK official said before May’s departure.

“If the opportunity arises for the PM to repeat that message and deliver important messages in relation to Yemen, for instance, then I’m sure she will take the opportunity

to do so. Engagement is important if we are to address these issues.”

May’s arrival on Thursday night marked the first visit by a British prime minister to the Argentinian capital. On Friday she will tell world leaders she has achieved a good Brexit deal for the global economy that will open up new opportunities for trade and give the UK a new, independent voice to push for reform of multinational institutions such as the World Trade Organisation.

Trump has expressed deep scepticism about the UK’s ability to strike free-trade deals with countries such as the US under the agreed Brexit terms, a fear shared by many of May’s mutinous backbenchers seeking to crush her deal in Parliament.

Downing Street hit back after Trump made his remarks on Monday, insisting the UK could negotiate, sign and ratify agreements provided these did not enter into force or apply during the Brexit transition period.

May’s pre-summit remarks made no mention of the deal’s uncertain future. “The Brexit deal we have agreed sets a path for the UK to a brighter future,” she said, adding that the UK was already taking “significant steps to boost trade in fast-growing new markets”.

May will use the summit to underline that although the UK will remain close to the EU, she does not believe the UK will be restricted in signing new trade deals.

“For the first time in more than four decades, the UK will have an independent trade policy. We will play a full and active role on trade on the global stage, working with friends new and old at a time of unprecedented global interconnectedness,” she said.

The Prime Minister took a similar tone during a 90-minute grilling by parliament’s liaison committee before her flight, batting away repeated questions about the risks of a no-deal departure by saying this placed greater responsibility on MPs to endorse her plan.

The Government was preparing for the possibility of no deal, May said: “But of course the way to ensure that we get a good

deal and we are able to see that smooth and orderly exit is to ratify the deal that the government has agreed.”

The Prime Minister also argued that extending the article 50 timetable to potentially allow time for a second referendum would mean having to reopen talks with the EU on the planned deal – a view dismissed by officials in Brussels.

One of the new freedoms that May will promote at the summit will be the UK’s independent seat at the WTO from April 2019, which Downing Street said would be used to push for “ambitious and urgent reform” including on trade in services, declaration of subsidies and respect for intellectual property rights.

Downing Street’s promotion of the prospect of free-trade deals was somewhat undermined by the cross-Whitehall economic analysis published on Wednesday, which suggests trade deals with the US, Australia and Brics countries would add just 0.2 per cent to GDP. A UK government official said there were limitations to the analysis. “Any growth we can improve in GDP is a positive … the global economy is changing and the fact we can have our own independent trade policy puts us in a good place to make the most of those opportunities,” the official said.

May’s first bilateral talks will be with the Argentinian president, Mauricio Macri, where she is expected to announce the first UK trade envoy to the country – an honour usually bestowed on an MP or peer – who has not yet been confirmed.

A Downing Street source said the prime minister expected Macri would raise the issue of the Falkland Islands but played down the prospect of any significant developments, and said May would restate the UK’s longstanding position. May will not visit the Falkland Islands on this trip.

“It’s Argentina’s G20 and trade is clearly the priority,” the UK official said. “If you look broadly at the relationship that we have with President Macri… it does suggest the relationship is moving in a positive direction.” (The Guardian)

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You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

What does the Scotiabank Lawrence embraces party paramountcy and dictatorship acquisition mean for Guyana?

– she must resign Dear Editor, "The only friends I got is PNC so the only people I gon give wuk to is PNC and right now I looking for a doctor who can talk Spanish or Portuguese and ah want one that is PNC". No matter how much you spin it, these are hatred-filled, racist words spewed by the Chairman of the People's National Congress (PNC), Ms. Volda Lawrence, who also happens to be a senior Government Member of Parliament and the Senior Minister of Public Health. Ms. Lawrence, in response to media inquiries, has since stood by these remarks to supporters of the PNC, an audience made up of Afro-Guyanese.

Ms. Lawrence chided government officials who have not fully implemented APNU+AFC's policy to give jobs and contracts to PNC members, supporters and friends, a policy emphasising that the only qualification for jobs and contracts is PNCmembership, support and friendship, not merit.

Ms. Lawrence reiterated unequivocally the present PNC version of the 1974 Sophia Declaration of party paramouncy. She bluntly outlined the PNC's racist perspective of governance in Guyana, clearly defining a policy of political victimization, governing with brute force and ignorance. Ms. Lawrence boldly reiterated the PNC DNA - bullyism, discrimination, nepotism and cronyism.

Several days after, there is total silence from the Alliance for Change (AFC) and the Working People's Alliance (WPA). I am not shocked that Prime Minister Nagamootoo, Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan, Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman, all AFC leaders, the PNC Social Cohesion Minister, and Amna Ally, are silent. But I am deeply disappointed that the WPA's Dr. Rupert Roopnarine, a senior Minister in APNU+AFC, is silent.

The right thing to do is for Ms. Lawrence to resign as a Minister. The right

thing for President Granger is to fire her. Does she not grasp that she is Minister of Public Health and a member of a government that serves all Guyanese? Outside of the obnoxious governance guidelines she outlined, Ms. Lawrence has previously provided enough reasons to disqualify her as a Minister. This is the same lady that defined rape by an uncle as a family matter, referring to it as "deflowering". As a Minister, she was caught on video violently assaulting an innocent citizen during a protest at Red House.

As a Minister, she has presided over a ministry responsible for billions of dollars in corrupt transactions.

Her dark, menacing, ominous statements were equally moronic, mewing, mephitic, reckless and reprehensible.

Ms. Lawrence declared war, demanding her colleagues in government fully implement the old PNC policy of jobs and contracts for card-carrying PNC members. She is emphatic that Guyana belongs to, is by, and for PNC members, supporters and friends.

Ms. Lawrence essentially formalised a policy of discrimination as the APNU+AFC's blueprint for governance, something Guyana has suffered from since May 2015 and between 1964 and 1992.

Ms. Lawrence's declaration is a version of the 1974 Sophia Declaration of party paramountcy made by the then Prime Minister, Forbes Burnham, at Congress Place.

It is consistent with the way APNU+AFC has governed Guyana since May 2015.

Just recently Kaieteur News' Peeping Tom listed major appointments of APNU+AFC since May 2015, insightfully revealing these appointments were based purely on ethnic and political considerations, abandoning any pretense of merit. Ms. Lawrence's statements provide the rationale for why hundreds of Guyanese public servants were fired since May 2015 - they did not fit ethnic and political considerations acceptable to the PNC. Ms. Lawrence's verbal na-

palm is a consequence of the 2018 LGE debacle where the Guyanese people overwhelmingly rejected the PNC. It followed another version made by her other senior colleague, Minister of Presidency, Joe Harmon who earlier had said the time for niceness is over and that those who are not friends of the PNC will face the sting of the scorpion - you are either with us or against us. These statements followed the PPP thrashing of both the PNC and the AFC by a margin of 61 per cent (PPP) to 34 per cent (PNC) and 4 per cent (AFC).

The closure of four sugar estates, firing of more than 7,000 sugar workers, unconscionable delay in paying their severance, freeze of wages for sugar workers with no increase since 2015, increasing lease and drainage fees for rice farmers, removing agriculture subsidies etc, firing of 2,000 Amerindian Community Resource Persons, are clearly part of the formula outlined in Ms. Lawrence's verbal napalm. Hundreds of public servants lost their jobs on the basis of their race or their perceived political affiliation.

Hundreds have been employed with ethnic and political affiliation as the only qualifications. In the meantime, APNU+AFC (PNC) has ratcheted-up political victimisation through trumped-up criminal charges against former PPP Ministers and government officials.

Metastasizing dictatorship has become a centipede, taking over all aspects of our lives. Citizens are justifiably horrified by Ms. Lawrence's deeming the majority of Guyanese second-class citizens. We can either speak out now or become pawns and victims in the evils of dictatorship. Decent citizens who care about our country, regardless of race and ethnicity, religion or political affiliation, cannot sit this one out. We must take a stand - silence is too perilous an option.

Regards, Dr Leslie Ramsammy

Dear Editor, By now it should be clear that Scotiabank Guyana and eight other Caribbean territories have been bought/acquired by Republic Financial Holdings Ltd, a Trinidadian based company and the transfer/integration is being held back by regulatory requirements and consensus. People, both staff and citizens are seeing this as a shock. Some may be saying that this is business as usual and it’s how the corporate world works.

What is being overlooked is the significance this will have to the Guyanese economy and people.

There are a few who happen to glance at the underlying strategy and are asking important questions as to why would Scotiabank do this. Why would the bank sell assets significantly under the market value? Why sell to RBL and not another foreign bank trying to enter the Caribbean market? Surely first world banks would have paid more for such a profitable opportunity. Why leave Guyana when they are on the verge of significant oil revenues?

To answer this, you need to use the age-old cliché of ‘follow the money’. Who has the most to gain from this acquisition? Who were the players involved in the negotiation of this deal, specifically for Guyana? How is this going to impact business and the economy?

If you dissect the acquisition into small bits, it is clear that the ultimate winners of this is the twin Island Republic of Trinidad & Tobago. When the acquisition is completed, RBL Guyana will own more than 50% of the banking market in Guyana. Think about that for a second. All your loans, credit, debt and other facilities will be controlled by RBL and in turn all the profit generated will be moved from Guyana and enter Trinidad.

The Private Sector of Guyana is already highly controlled by Trinidadian entities, which means that Trinidadian businesses locally will be doing further business with a Trinidadian

The true character of Volda Lawrence; Nagamootoo take note!

Dear Editor, The PNCR/APNU Chairwoman Volda Lawrence has finally revealed who she really is. The Leader of the largest coalition partner has finally said who and what she stands for. For years, this hardcore political follower from the old guard could not hold back the dark side of her character and was forced to reveal it to others of her kind at Congress Place.

While we may aggressively attack Volda Lawrence for her vulgar and naked racist rant, you must also remember that she is just a symptom of what we in the analytical press

have been saying for years, that is, she is the personification of a party that holds the same view.

If the President or any of the top brass of the party were worth their salt, and were offended in any way by those remarks then they would have immediately asked for her apology and a retraction of those comments. But they were all in agreement with their comrade, so why condemn her.

Further to our discourse and of even greater importance, is the fact that this vile character might very well be our next president. That sit-

uation is quite clear, should anything more serious come to a terminally ill president, then Guyana as a nation will be "burdened" with a cynical racist as its leader. Guyana, please note should anything happen to our terminally ill president, I am speaking of the likes of Volda Lawrence being installed as the new president. This is the real frightening and ghastly scenario we would be faced with.

So, this is the unadulterated truth, her vile words have as much significance to the Opposition as it does to persons in the coalition who "do not look like her." In this re-

gard Nagamootoo should be on notice. I am sure right now he is a nervous wreck trying to figure out the real world situation unfolding before him; and worried sick he should be!

Those comments have wide sweeping implications and coalition partner, acting president Nagamootoo, needs to be on his guard. There is no way Volda Lawrence would stand for a person who does not look like her as leader of the coalition or President of this country while she is there.

I rest my case.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

owned bank. Additionally, when the oil money starts to flow, most of those monies will more than likely be channeled through RBL. The Guyanese people will be further cut out of the possibility of having the “better life” promised as money generated from the local economy keeps going to Trinidad.

Who were the key players involved in the acquisition that we know of?

From the Guyana end, both Scotiabank and RBL Guyana are headed by Trinidadians.

At the Trinidad end, more Trinidadians. Is this all a coincidence? What about the government and hierarchy of Trinidad, who by the way are going through a strong economic recession at present, did they have knowledge? Is this their way of attempting to control Guyana’s oil sector?

Again, follow the money and the answers always becomes clear as day.

Interestingly enough, the government of Antigua & Barbuda have taken a strong stance against the acquisition. They are insisting that Scotiabank sell to a “local bank” more than likely to save themselves from what will happen to Guyana, i.e. the further drain of wealth from the country.

What will our Guyanese government do? As it hap-

pens, they themselves have begun to ask questions but will they take a similar stance and see pass the smoke and mirrors Trinidad has erected? What will the Ministry of Labour do? Will they advocate for Scotiabank staff members who do not want to be a part of this transition fiasco to get their well-earned and deserved severance?

What about the customers who do not want to move their facilities to RBL or the customers who Scotiabank have convinced over the years to move their facilities from RBL to Scotiabank, what are they supposed to do? What about specialty products like Mastercard or Scotia’s Internet banking, what competitive alternatives are available to the loyal customers?

Only time will tell, but the wise know that money always supersedes what is right and just. Fortunately, integrity is something that money can’t buy and we Scotiabankers are full of integrity. This opinion is being shared so that the People of Guyana can begin to ask questions of their own.

One People, One Nation, One Destiny. What impacts us at Scotiabank will impact us all…

Concerned Scotiabanker

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By Suzanne Gelb, PhD, JD

Parenting is not complicated.

Challenging, at times? Certainly.

But ultimately, your role is rather simple: To care for your child, just as you would care for yourself.

To model the kind of behaviour that you want your child to adopt.

To teach your child right from wrong.

To keep your child safe from harm.

To love your child unconditionally.

That essentially covers it.

Foundation

about it – is beautiful

Once again. Your body – and everything about it – is beautiful. Period.

Take good care of your body

Keep it clean. Feed it enough, but not too much. Keep it healthy and strong. Your body is so good to you.

Think of all the amazing things it allows you to do – like run, skip, snuggle, hug, even eat dessert!

We are all unique

It’s important to share with others

It’s good to share toys, to share ideas, and to teach other kids how to do things that you already know how to do – like how to tie your shoe laces, or how to throw a ball farther across the field. (To teach this particular lesson to your child, model generosity and service, yourself.)

It’s also OK to say “No,” sometimes If there’s a

In the spirit of simplicity, here are 10 simple (but vital) life lessons to teach your kids before they turn 10.

Being kind is one of the most important “achievements”

It’s important to respect your parents

Accomplishing other things – like getting high marks on an exam – is great. But what truly matters is how you treat people – including how you treat yourself.

What truly matters is being loving and kind.

There’s more than enough love for everyone

(For an only child: “I can love you and your mom / dad.” For a child with siblings: “I can love you and your brothers / sisters. There’s enough love for all of you – and I love all of you equally.”)

Your body – and everything

particular toy that you don’t want to share – because it’s special to you, like a gift from Grandma – it’s OK to say, “No, I would rather not share.” You don’t have to say “Yes” to everyone, every time. But be kind when you say “No.”

We all have different gifts and talents. You don’t have to be the best at anything. Just do your best.

You are never alone

Even when you’re by yourself, like in your room, I’m always thinking of you and loving you.

Everything we do, we are doing because we love you, we want you to keep you safe, and we want you to grow up and have the best life you can possibly have. (To inspire your child to respect you, lead by example. Treat yourself and others with respect.)

You are loved, no matter what (psychologytoday.com)

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earning about geography for kids can be fun when you turn it into a treasure hunt! Despite the ubiquitous GPS devices, map-reading skills are important and necessary.

Obviously being able to read a map can help you on your way, but also the ability to imagine looking down from above improves spatial intelligence.

Howard Gardener, a renowned developmental psychologist proposed the theory of multiple intelligences in 1983.

According to Dr Gardner, we focus our attention on logicalmathematical and linguistic intelligences (maths and reading).

However, he argues that teachers and parents should also encourage the other intelligences: bodily – kinaesthetic, musical, interpersonal, intrapersonal, naturalistic, and spatial.

This map-making, map-reading activity does just that- with a sweet treat as a reward!

Map of Backyard Choose an area that has some landmarks – it can be your backyard, the school playground, a park, or a section of your neighbourhood. Ask the children if they have ever been on an airplane and looked out the window.

What did the ground look like?

Could you identify houses? Soccer fields? Parks? Forests?

How did the objects look the same or different?

Ask the kids to close their eyes. “Imagine that you are able to fly above us. When you look down, objects look a little different. If you fly above a swimming pool, it might look like a blue circle or a blue rectangle. If you fly above a house, it might look like a square. Right now imagine that you are floating right above us, and looking down. Now open your eyes.”

Tell them that they should try to draw the park (backyard, etc) as if they were looking down from above. It is helpful to walk around and count bushes, notice placement of playground equipment, etc. My 6 year old did need help figuring out the main placement of our house, but then she wanted to finish the picture (and succeeded!). With slightly older kids, you could have them make a key and use symbols on the maps instead of realistic drawings. We used a compass to show North, South, East and West and my kids loved the fact that as they spun around the red arrow always pointed North (and they got quite dizzy proving this and almost fell into the cold pool).

Geography For Kids Part 2: The Treasure Hunt Now comes the fun part! Once you have the maps finished, hand out little stickers to the kids. They need to hide treasures (we used leftover candy) and mark their locations on their maps with the stickers.

Then, they can trade the maps with a partner (or their sibling:) and use the maps to find the treasures. We had the older kids make the maps and mark them, and then my fouryear-olds were able to read the maps to find the candy. FOUR year olds. My kids were literally running trying to find the hidden candy- it’s a miniature geo-caching activity you can do anywhere! They did get turned around sometimes – but my older ones intuitively would show them how to hold the map and stand facing the relative direction: “see the pool is there, so face the pool. The candy is behind you.”

For slightly older kids, using their more sophisticated maps with keys, this activity could look a little different. If you have compasses, perhaps they write out directions “10 steps north of the blue slide.” Even if you don’t have compasses, as long as everyone has the cardinal directions drawn correctly on their maps, the students can write directions (instead of using stickers) for their partners to find the hidden candy: “5 steps east of the green garbage can.”

After the treasure hunt, look at local city maps. For a follow-up geography activity for kids, have them try to draw the route they take to school or to a friend’s house, or work collaboratively to create a map of the neighbourhood. Happy mapping! (kidworldcitizen.org)

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saturdAY, december 1, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

$484M supplemental paper

GDF aircraft unused since commissioning in August

– aircraft grounded, disassembled as checks carried out

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arlier this year, Government sought $484.2 million in supplemental financing to acquire four aircraft, including two Islanders. At least two of the aircraft are here, but have been grounded since checks by engineers are being carried out.

This is according to Minister of State Joseph Harmon during a post-Cabinet press briefing on Friday.

The Minister explained that a ‘C’ check or maintenance check is being carried out.

This entails the aircraft being disassembled and individual components checked.

“I think what has happened is that since we bought them, the engineers’ at the Air Corps decided to do what is known as a ‘C’ check, which is basically to take the entire aircraft apart and check every part of it. So they’ve done that and in fact are still doing that,” Harmon explained.

“I think in a short period of time we will be up and flying with those aircraft.”

“Checks were done before the aircraft were purchased, but they were not ‘C’ checks.

And these ‘C’ checks are much more thorough checks that you do once every five years or as the case might be.

This is what has actually delayed the actually putting to service these aircraft.”

According to Harmon, safety is a major concern for

Minister of State Joseph Harmon is flanked by Army and civil aviation authority officials at the commissioning of the two Islanders on August 9

the Government. He noted their care to make sure nothing goes wrong when soldiers or even Ministers of Government are travelling in these aircraft. Besides these aircraft, Harmon revealed that two Skyvans are to be delivered by next year.

The supplemental funds for the aircraft were sought on the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF) behalf in the National Assembly back in May of this year. At the time, Harmon was asked by Opposition parliamentarian and former Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee about the manufacturing date of the aircraft.

“These are not new aircraft. They are aircraft that have been in service and are being purchased by the company that owns them. The two Skyvans were manufactured

in 1977 and the two Islanders in 1976. The Islanders were (used to transport) passengers and cargo while the Skyvans were for paratrooping,” Harmon had said.

Under further questioning from Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira, Harmon had assured that the planes were issued with air worthiness certificates from Brazilian and European Aviation officials. According to the Minister, they will be further examined before Guyana even uses them.

It was Harmon himself who commissioned the Islanders in August when they arrived. At the time of the commissioning, Commanding Officer of the Air Corps Commander Courtney Burns had laid out his expectations for how the aircraft would be used.

Sacked sugar workers receive final severance payment

Retrenched Enmore Estate workers anxiously awaiting their severance payments

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etrenched sugar workers on Friday collected their final severance payment, even as many of them have adapted to life after GuySuCo. On Friday the Government kept its promise to pay out the remaining fifty percent of severance to those receiving amounts in excess of $500,000 by the end of 2018.

Some 4,763 sugar workers were made redundant by GuySuCo as part of its restructuring programme to save the deeply indebted industry.

The Department of Public Information visited Wales and Enmore Estates and found that former workers had turned out early.

At the Enmore Community Development Ground, several welcomed the severance payments. Clifton Nedd, a retrenched worker, expressed his satisfaction with the payment, noting that it came just in time for the holidays.

“Well, I feel very good, because I was waiting a very long time, and now everything happened,” he declared.

“I am happy about it, because when they paid the first half, a lot of people comment about it, but I say that every disappointment does be for a good,” said Marlene Licorish, who has started selling homemade chips to make a living.

Over at the Wales Estate administrative building, numerous former workers gathered outside, including Joseph Persaud, who welcomed the final payment and said he was currently doing cash crop farming.

Ramphal, who had been employed with GuySuCo for 23 years, says he would still like to get into farming despite already finding work in general construction.

Some of the former workers disclosed that they would be investing their payouts.

Rohan Sugrim from Wales Estate, who had been with GuySuco for twelve years,

said he would use some for the Christmas holidays and “invest some” in the New Year.

Retrenched Enmore Estate worker Sheldon Younge told the Department of Public Information that, following the closure of the estate, he has been operating his own business. Younge disclosed that he would be investing his severance into his venture, stating, “It’s supposed to make the business grow a little bit more.”

Others workers said since the closure of the estates they have been adjusting, with some of them seeking employment with private companies.

Many also benefited from alternative livelihood programmes designed to equip them with skills to seek employment in different areas, such as sewing, cosmetology, caring for the elderly, catering, mechanical and electrical works, and small business management.

For instance, he had said the aircraft would be used for search and rescue as required; air borne and air mobile operations; casualty evacuations; day and

night medical evacuation; air transport for troops; as a platform for tactical operation; surveillance through the country including the Exclusive Economic Zone and

disaster relief operations.

He had also listed the use of the aircraft for replenishing supplies for those deployed, provide support for Government programmes, conduct trainings, conduct anti-piracy, anti-illegal mining, logging and fishing activities, support civil powers and the Police, provide internal support operations, conduct counter narcotic operations and cross border operations.

Before these aircraft were procured, it is understood that the GDF air corps had two Bell helicopters, one of which was out of commission. It also had two Skyvan 8R-GRR models, a Cessna and a Harbin aircraft.

Ali innocent until...

The ICD said it sees the charges against Ali and those against other senior members, like Nandlall, as strictly political and as a deliberate act of witch-hunting. “While we have tried to be objective as we support building a democratic society in Guyana and

other countries around the world, we view the situation in Guyana as a weakening of the democratic fabric.”

The Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) was singled out by the ICD as being the lead law enforcement organisation that has been en-

from page 3

gaged in this type of activity.

Reference was made to Ali’s recent arrest. The organisation said it was clearly spurious criminal charges that are aimed towards amplifying the ongoing setting of political harassment and intimidation.

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saturdAY, december 1, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

IN THE COURTS

Bandits nabbed with loot at DHB remanded Being honest…

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wo of the three suspects who were nabbed with a quantity of stolen items during a stop-and-search exercise conducted by Police at the Demerara Harbour Bridge were on Friday arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on charges of break and enter and larceny.

Ivor Hughes and Rockey Harvey, both of the West Coast of Demerara, have both denied the charges, one of which states that on November 28, 2018 at Beau Voisin, West Bank Demerara, they broke and entered the dwelling house of Lyana Isaacs and stole a Samsung cellphone, along with a computer and oth-

er items belonging to Jamal Bristol.

Another charge alleges that they broke and entered the dwelling house of Shondel Chichester between November 27 and 28, 2018, and stole therefrom a quantity of items, including an IPhone, a tablet and jewellery.

Police Prosecutor Gordon

Mansfield objected to the men being placed on bail, citing the seriousness and prevalence of the offence.

As a result, the Chief Magistrate remanded the duo to prison, and ordered that they make their next court appearance on December 13, 2018. The matter has also been transferred before the Wales Magistrate.

Teen arraigned for attempted murder

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eventeen-year-old Christopher Shannon was on Friday arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on an

attempted murder charge alleging that on November 10, 2018 at Grove, East Bank Demerara, he unlawfully assaulted Brian Sumeer with intent to commit murder.

Represented by Attorney-

at-law Stanley Moore, the teen, of Lot 128 Alexander Village, Georgetown, was not required to plead to the indictable charge.

The prosecution’s case is that the teen discharged

two shots at the victim, thus causing him to receive injuries to his chest.

Shannon has been remanded to prison, and the matter has been adjourned to December 18, 2018.

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…about PNC politics nlike others in the commentary business, your Eyewitness doesn’t have a problem with PNC chair Volda Lawrence’s further explication of their new “Declaration of Sophia”. Unlike the original one enunciated by Burnham in 1974 on “Party Paramountcy over the state”, in one comprehensive statement, this time we’re getting the message in short, stattacco-like bursts.

The first salvo was just before the LGE when Minister in the Ministry of the Presidency, Dawn Hastings conjured up the “PPP “killing” sons of the Sophia listeners. It was pure and unadulterated stirring of racial fears.

It continued after the LGE with the leadership of the PNC at the press conference at Congress Place, Sophia, after their trouncing at the hands of the PPP. They conceded their coalition was really a sham…and it was PNC in the saddle again. Like when Burnham threw out the UF and started rigging elections to rule on his lonesome as the “paramount” party in 1968. But with Nagamootoo at the head table, some idealists wearing rose-tinted glasses out in voterland might’ve still hoped it wasn’t PNC uber alles.

But these poor souls would’ve ignored the gross disparities in ethnic composition of the Ministers; heads of department; members of Government Boards; contract awardees; diplomats; contract employees in the OP; scholarship recipients; STEM participants; village for agricultural rehabilitation; investment programmes for Linden vs firings of sugar workers; managers of the Energy Department, etc, etc.

So it took PNC chair Volda Lawrence to be honest about the present PNC’s modus operandi. She took a page from Burnham’s message to the 1979 PNC Biennial Conference, when he criticised some members for “being more democratic than those who taught us democracy”.

He insisted the PNC party card must be the sine qua non for a job offer and those who were fired for not getting with the programme, must “stay fired”.

Speaking to the roomful of PNC faithful, Lawrence candidly described who should get jobs under the PNC regime: “The only friends I got is PNC so the only people I gon give wuk to is PNC and right now I looking for a doctor who can talk Spanish or Portuguese and ah want one that is PNC!” Now you can’t get clearer than that, can you? Whatever you may think of the policy, you have to compliment the Minister for stating what everyone knew was the policy of the PNC – then and now – but were too hypocritical to say it out in public.

Burnham ended his 1979 speech boasting that his political opponents would face his “sharper steel” so they should “write their wills”.

Who’ll be the present PNC leader to admit this is the end game once again?? …but not on giveaway The PNC Government is hell bent on giving Brazilian investors the go-ahead on mega farms in our intermediate savannahs. That’s a bad idea for any number of reasons… but like with every other initiative they’ve undertaken, that doesn’t matter. Citizens will have to head them off at the pass like they did with those PNC-Parking Meters of Patricia Chase-Green When the proposals were first floated, several Guyanese argued cogently against them. Firstly, there’s the major elephant in the room as to whether such development can be part of a “Green Development Strategy” the PNC has been mouthing off about. If their models from Brazil are anything to go by, these megafarms can really be MEGA – some with more that 150,000 acres!! Then there’s the Genetically Modified corn and soya they’ll grow by polluting the groundwater with the pesticides and fertilisers that can’t run off, like on the coast.

Finally, with the Lethem-Linden Highway in the pipeline, these mega farms will be fifth columnists for a Brazil invasion!

What happened to farming for the “small man”? …on the electoral lists Jamaica just removed 260,000 dead persons from their voters’ list. So could Patterson please remove the 65,000 dead persons on Guyana’s voters list??

Or has Felix already prepared Ids for them to vote in 2020??

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

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saturdAY, december 1, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

RFH’s Scotiabank takeover unhealthy Georgetown gets new Mayor, Deputy for financial sector – Jagdeo

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he city of Georgetown will now be spearheaded by People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Councillor, Pandit Ubraj Narine after he was elected on Friday as the new Mayor.

The Councillors were sworn in in the chambers of City Hall where nominations were followed by elections of the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Finance Committee.

Twenty-nine Councillors were sworn in after Patrick De Santos submitted his absence for medical reasons.

He will be sworn in at a later date, summing up the total to 30 representatives.

Narine, who represents Constituency One, was nominated by Councillor Ivelaw Henry and entered the race with People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)

Newly elected Mayor Ubraj Narine

Oscar Clarke was appointed as the Chairman to govern this financial body, while the outgoing Mayor was elected as Vice Chairwoman. The newly elected Councillors and Mayor will commence their duties as of January 1, 2019.

In his remarks as the im-

eratives as to how he plans to address the burgeoning garbage disposal and build-up in the city, Narine diverged by insisting that he will not commence duties as of now and refused to comment on any other pressing matters.

“Bear in mind, I will take

Members of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council at the elections on Friday

Councillor Bishram Kuppen, who was selected by Deon Younge. The new Mayor secured 21 votes in his favour and was elected accordingly.

Following his lead was Alfred Mentore who was elected as the Deputy Mayor with 23 votes and six against the nomination.

The Council elected seven persons to charge the Finance Committee, comprising of Patricia Chase Green, Yvonne Ferguson, Ivelaw Henry, Oscar Clarke, Trichia Richards, and Bisham Kuppen.

pending Mayor who will be serving for the next three years, Narine acknowledged the fact that the Council has been cash-strapped as he implied that these matters must be addressed.

“Our challenges are a ballooning budgetary deficit, late payment and non-payment of staff, debts mounting to hundreds of millions to private contractors and struggles of collection of rates and taxes to name a few. These challenges must be faced head on together.”

When asked by media op-

office from 2019 and that’s all I have to say.”

On the contrary, the outgoing Mayor’s advice to Narine was, “You are taking the reigns as Mayor in the city of Georgetown at a crucial point where there are many challenges. I will advise you that…there are many wolves in sheep’s clothing.”

Chase Green assured with a piqued expression that she did not enter the Local Government Elections (LGE) to be elected again as Mayor.

Turn to page 11

ormer President Bharrat Jagdeo has stated that Republic Bank Limited’s impending acquisition of Scotiabank’s operations in Guyana could be unhealthy for the local financial sector.

Speaking at his weekly press conference on Thursday, the Opposition Leader told reporters that he is willing to support Government to avoid a situation that will put the country’s financial sector at risk.

“From what I’ve seen – the figures that I’ve read about – is that the merged entity could control more than 50 per cent of our total assets in the banking sector and more than 50 per cent of total deposits. This is unhealthy and therefore I will support our regulators to uphold the law to avoid undue concentration in a single entity, which puts our entire financial system at risk,” the former Head of State posited.

According to Jagdeo, who is also a former Finance Minister, the takeover could very well be illegal since safety measures were put in place years ago in the Financial Institutions Act and other regulatory legislations to guard against such excessive concentration.

On Tuesday, the Canadian-based Scotiabank announced that it has signed an agreement to sell its banking operations in Guyana and eight other Caribbean nations to Republic Financial Holdings Ltd. Guyana Times understands that the deal is worth US$123 million.

“Due to increasing regulatory complexity and the need for continued investment in technology to support our regulatory requirements, we made the decision to focus the bank’s efforts on those markets with significant scale in which we can make the greatest difference

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo

for our customers,” Ignacio Deschamps, Scotiabank’s group head of international banking, said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Chairman of Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL) Ronald Harford, said the move will benefit everyone in the long run, including Scotiabank’s clients and employees and the group’s own stakeholders.

“This acquisition represents another major milestone for the Republic Group. As we grow and acquire significant positions in our existing markets, it is important that we continue to broaden our footprint, regionally and internationally.”

“This agreement, which is subject to all regulatory approvals, affords us the opportunity to reach more clients in the Eastern Caribbean and Guyana, two markets we are familiar with, and build new relationships in St Maarten,” Harford said.

Broken down, the US$123 million purchase price represents US$25 million of total shareholding of Scotiabank Anguilla Limited; and a premium of US$98 million over net asset value for operations in the other eight countries – St Maarten, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia and St

Vincent and the Grenadines.

In its initial reaction to the biggest takeover in the financial sector, Government, through the Finance Ministry, questioned why Scotiabank would want to pull out of Guyana and more so expressed its concern and regret about the bank wanting go that route when, according to them, “Guyana’s economy is on the cusp of financial transformation with the onset of a massive new oil and gas sector raises.”

Moreover, the Finance Ministry said the agreement raises a number of issues for the banking sector in Guyana and for the public which the Finance Ministry, the Bank of Guyana and the Government of Guyana will “need to carefully consider”.

One such issue is what the Ministry said was Republic Bank wielding too much influence on banking products and rates as their acquisition of Scotiabank would invariably see assets and deposits within the local banking system increase exponentially.

According to the Ministry, “Republic Bank currently holds 35.4 per cent of the banking systems assets and 36.8 per cent of deposits and the acquisition will up this to 51 per cent of both assets and deposits. This raises concerns about an over-concentration of banking services, market domination and the ‘too big to fail’ risks.”

Also outlined was the potential for job cuts with Republic Bank likely to consolidate branches.

Nevertheless, Minister of State Joseph Harmon on Friday told reporters at this week’s post-Cabinet press briefing that the Council of Ministers is still in discussion as to how Government will approach the matter.

“We are assessing the situation. We will determine what is in our best interest… as it affects us here in Guyana,” Harmon stated.

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saturdAY, december 1, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Black Bush triple-murder accused committed to stand trial in High Court

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he four men who are accused of the triple-murder committed on July 23rd, 2016 at Cookerite Savannah in Black Bush Polder on the Corentyne Coast in East Berbice have been committed to stand trial in the High Court.

Carlton Chetram; his 17-year-old son Jairam Chetram; and workers Tameshwar Jagmohan, 18, of Lot 222 Mibicuri

Murder accused: Rakesh Karamchand

Murder accused: Carlton Chetram

Dead from left: Pawan Chandradeo, Jaikarran Chandradeo and Narish Rooplall

South, Black Bush Polder and Rakesh Karamchand of Sheet Anchor, East Canje Berbice will now be tried before a judge and

jury for the murder of Pawan Chandradeo, 37, of Black Bush Polder; his son Jaikarran Chandradeo, 15; and his brother-in-

Murder accused: Jairam Chetram

Murder accused: Tameshwar Jagmohan

law, Narish Rooplall, 33, of Number 73 Village, Corentyne.

The bodies of the two Chandradeos and Rooplall were discovered with gunshot wounds lying next to each other on a dam at Cookerite Savannah, Black Bush Polder.

Three of the four suspects, along with the wife of one of them, were arrest-

ed, and confessed to the heinous crime while implicating another man.

It has been reported that the suspects were in a rice field belonging to one “King”, and were stealing diesel fuel when the trio turned up to catch hassar.

Upon seeing the three men, the suspects discharged bullets in the air, forcing the men to run to safety. It

has also been reported that one of the men told the others that it was important to get rid of the witnesses.

The shooter, believed to be the 17-year-old, went over to the men and, at close range, shot them each once, killing them on the spot.

It is believed that he used the gun belonging to his father. The bodies were discovered the following day by the owner of the rice field and his workers.

Rooplall had a cast net hung over his shoulder, his nephew had a bag with fish hung around his neck, while the elder Chandradeo had his cast net in his hand. Fish, body parts and blood littered the scene.

During the preliminary inquiry, Attorney- at-Law Mursaline Bacchus represented the accused.

4 to stand trial for murder of domestic worker

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Rohan Johnson

he four persons who have been accused of the execution-style killing of domestic worker Lelawattie Mohamed at her Lot 149, Sixth Street, Tain Settlement, Corentyne Berbice home on February 7, 2017 will now face a Judge and jury to answer the capital indictment.

At conclusion of the preliminary inquiry in the Berbice High Court on Thursday, November 29, Magistrate Charlene Artiga committed Tain residents

Oliver Permaul

Oliver Permaul, 36, and his wife Nazeema Permaul, 42; Andre James, also called ‘Andy’, 26, a tattoo artist of Lot 46 ‘A’ George Street, Rose Hall Town; and Rohan Johnson, 38, a carpenter of Clarendon, Jamaica and of Lot 107 Second Street, Rose Hall Town.

The shooting, witnessed by the woman’s children, reportedly appeared to have been committed during the commission of a robbery.

It has been reported that the late Lelawattie Mohamed

Nazeema Permaul

had been having an affair with a businessman, but after his wife found out, she allegedly ordered a “hit” on Mohamed.

It has further been reported that the said businesswoman was in a relationship with Permaul, who operates his barbershop opposite her home at Tain, Corentyne.

Johnson and James were reportedly the hired “hit men”.

Nazeema Permaul allegedly assisted in planning the murder, and also allegedly acted as the agent who

Andre James

handed over the cash to the ‘hit men’.

On September 24, a fifth accused -- Shabikie Albert, also called ‘Shabikie Thompson’ -- was freed of this indictment by Magistrate Artiga.

During the preliminary inquiry, the Permauls were represented by Attorneyat-Law Mursaline Bacchus, while Attorney-at-Law Benard DeSantos represented James, and Attorney-atLaw Moti Singh represented Johnson.

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saturdAY, december 1, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

LGE results were a reality check – Govt Granger to return to – says it is analysing, taking losses seriously

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Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) performance at the recently held Local Government Elections (LGE), which saw them gain only 34 per cent of the vote, has served as a reality check for the Government.

This assertion was made

by Minister of State and Government’s designated spokesperson, Joseph Harmon, on Friday. Harmon acknowledged the importance of taking stock from and analysing whatever message the electorate sends at the polls.

“As political parties, it’s very important that you look and analyse the results of the elections. I think it has been a reality check and therefore you have to pay attention to what the people are saying. It’s not like we haven’t been doing so, but sometimes you go out there and you talk to people and you miss some in the exchanges.

Because LGE are so diversified you can actually speak to issues as they affect communities, as opposed to a General Elections where the numbers are general. So you can now look to what the communities are saying and speak to that with the way your budget is structured and the way in which you do your outreaches to these communities. So

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President David Granger and First Lady Sandra Granger

The coalition Government's Cabinet

we did look at these and we had a review and the review actually said to us a number of things.”

Harmon referred to the elections as a ‘barometer’ by which they could gauge the mood of the populace. According to Harmon, Government has reviewed the elections and assimilated the results. Despite all this, however, Harmon does not feel that the election results are necessarily an indictment on the coalition Government.

“In so far as it being a census on the coalition Government, I think that may not necessarily be an accurate statement. If you recognise the turn out, the turnout was low. And what

Georgetown gets...

“I went back into the elections not to become Mayor of the City of Georgetown. I went back because [of] my constituency…”said Chase Green in a firm tone, after she praised the number of votes she would have received.

Meanwhile, General Secretary of the PNCR, Amna Ally, was in attendance and urged the Councillors to put aside their political differences which can cause divide, in efforts to effectively perform their duties.

“It is not [A Partnership for National Unity] APNU, [Alliance For Change] AFC and PPP. It is Georgetown, Guyana and I trust that all of us collectively will work towards the development of Georgetown and ultimately, Guyana. I want to call on Councillors and all Guyana to come together, to work together, to live in unity and let our theme be: Development,” the General Secretary related.

Guyana Times spoke to some of the Councillors after they were sworn in and many shared ideas for their respective constituency and Georgetown.

Councillor Bishram Kuppen pointed out that accountability remains a key issue. This view was also shared by his colleagues and other members of the Council.

“It is shown that this City Council has been managed for a number of decades in an unprofessional and unaccountable manner. At this point in time, we are looking at making contributions where the best interest of the citizens

Cuba on Tuesday for further treatment

can be represented in this country,” Kuppen asserted.

The Deputy Mayor also stated, “We definitely need to look at how we manage our finances. That is very important to the optics and image of the Council because we don’t want to be having issues as it relates to not being able to pay our garbage people.”

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) results indicated that APNU received a total of 18,127 votes, followed by the PPP, which got 7050, while the AFC received 3059. Of APNU’s 21

you’re looking at were percentages of low turnout. But as I said, it has actually given us a guide about how to move forward.”

At the 2018 LGE held earlier this month, the governing coalition parties, particularly the Alliance For Change (AFC) received heavy defeats at the hands of the People’s Progressive Party when the people were given their chance to have their say.

Official results from the Guyana Elections Commission show that the People’s Progressive Party won 61 per cent of the vote (122,307). The A Partnership for National Unity trails behind with 34 per cent (68,060). The AFC, from page 9

seats on the City Council, nine came from the PR and 12 from the First Past the Post components. Back in 2016, the APNU/AFC controlled 25 seats. The PPP received seven seats, including four from the PR component.

Overall, GECOM’s results showed that the PPP won 61 per cent of the LGE with 122,307 votes, with the governing APNU taking 68,060 votes at 34 per cent, while the AFC garnered nearly four per cent of the electorate with 8719 votes.

which had previously said it won 10 per cent, only netted four per cent of the votes (8719).

Soon after the November 12, 2018 LGE, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo announced the filing of a no-confidence motion against the Government. He later described the defeats the coalition sustained as a no-confidence vote from the people themselves.

Out of 572,531 people registered to vote, only 208,534 actually came out to exercise their franchise.

This is a turnout of 36 per cent. When LGE were last held in 2016, the turnout was 47 per cent.

fter being diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma earlier this month and spending three weeks in Cuba, President David Granger is expected to return to that country on Tuesday next to continue his chemotherapy treatment.

State Minister Joseph Harmon during his weekly post-Cabinet briefing on Friday disclosed that, even though Granger’s workload has been reduced, he remains in charge of the state’s business.

Harmon highlighted, nevertheless, that the president has been “giving orders” and is “conducting meetings” on a regular basis.

Further, he noted that even though Granger is in much better health than when he left Guyana, he is required to visit Cuba frequently depending on his treatment schedule.

The president was required to return to Havana at a time prescribed by his medical team in order to evaluate the progress of his recovery and to extend his treatment schedule.

On October 30, 2018, the President and First Lady Sandra Granger travelled to Cuba for him to undergo medical tests after he complained of feeling unwell.

He was subsequently diagnosed with a type of cancer that develops in the lymphatic system.

He was discharged from the hospital on November 6 after undergoing a series of tests and surgical procedures. He returned to Guyana on November 20 after he was given approval by his medical team to travel.

His restriction to travel has led to the president not voting at the Local Government Elections (LGE) on November 12.

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PPP/C members elected as Mayor, Deputy Mayors of Mabaruma, Anna Regina

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eople’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) member Chris Phang was on Friday morning elected to serve as Mayor of the town of Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini).

In the words of the Mayor-elect, “The Mayor’s office will be open to all regardless of race, political affiliations… all are welcome”.

Seconding him is Carolyn Robinson who was elected as Deputy Mayor.

The Mayor, Deputy Mayor and elected Councillors, all took their Oath of Office to serve the

people of Mabaruma.

Meanwhile, Pastor Rajendra Prabhulall is now the new Mayor of the Township of Anna Regina, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) while Rudolph Williams was elected Deputy Mayor, both representatives of the PPP/C. Prabhulall’s main aim is to meet with the citizens, especially the business community, to discuss the way forward in seeing developments in various areas.

“If we give incentives and other support to the business sector they will even-

The newly elected Chairman, Pastor Rajendra Prabhulall; and Rudolph Williams (sitting) with the new Councillors of Anna Regina

tually grow and the demand will be there for employ-

Guyana Association of Women Police hold church service, parade to observe 6th anniversary

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The delegation from Trinidad during the parade on Friday

he Guyana Association of Women Police on Friday

Service, led by Assistant Commissioner Patsy Joseph.

Smartly dressed to cel-

homage to the women who had laid the foundation for the Association to be formulated and to those exceptional women who had broke through the glass ceiling with their outstanding achievements in the Guyana Police Force.

Minister within the Natural Resources Ministry, Simona Broomes; Deputy Commissioner Maxine Graham DSM; President of the Association; and other ranks of the Guyana Police Force, along with the foreign delegates and their leader, Assistant Commissioner Patsy Joseph, were all among the packed audience of this humble ceremony.

Scriptures taken from

Hierarchy of the Guyana Police Force at the church service

morning held a grand parade to mark the 6th anniversary of its founding.

The parade commenced at the National Park on Carifesta Avenue and traversed on to Young Street, Kingston, where Police Commissioner Leslie James, flanked by his deputies, took the salute.

The parade proceeded to the Officers Mess Annexe, where the annual Church Service was held under the theme “Women Embracing Positive Change in Law Enforcement”.

The parade saw the attendance of hundreds of persons, including senior and junior officers of the Guyana Police Force, along with a delegation from the Trinidad and Tobago Police

ebrate their place in the Guyana Police Force, the women turned out in their numbers; and the contingent of five platoons comprised female ranks from the Guyana Association of Women Police, the Special Constabulary, Felix Austin Police College, Police Divisions A to G[LM1], and the foreign delegates who had come to celebrate this milestone with their Guyanese counterparts.

The celebration continued with the women inviting God into their presence with a heart-warming opening prayer by Woman Inspector Marcia Sealey;, and the programme got underway with a pleasant welcome

by Woman Superintendent Charmine Stuart, who paid

Luke Chapter 1, verses 35 to 38 and 39 to 45 were read by Woman Inspector Shevon Jupiter and Woman Constable 25056 Mars respectively, followed by hymns and instrumentals by the women of the Police band.

Woman Sergeant 19980 Michelle Calder delivered a very powerful and inspirational message, which captivated the minds of many.

The motivational preacher urged the women Police to stand up and be counted, and also to stay strong and be a guiding light for not only Police women, but for all women.

The programme concluded with a closing prayer, followed by recital of the National Anthem.

ment and our people will be the ones to be benefiting,” he

said.

Williams also pledged to

give his fullest support to the Mayor and Council.

Rupununi promoted as tourism destination

A representative of the Business Ministry (left) and President of Visit Rupununi, Melanie McTurk share a poster showcasing the calendar of events during the launch of its fourth annual calendar of events 2019

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he Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) and Visit Rupununi on Friday launched the presentation of the Rupununi calendar of events in an effort to promote and market the area as a tourist destination.

In brief remarks at the launch at the GTA boardroom, Sophia Exhibition Site, Greater Georgetown, the agency’s Director, Brian Mullis said the Rupununi calendar of events was one of many marketing initiatives that the GTA and Visit Rupununi would be working on to ensure tourism development.

Mullis noted that these initiatives are major marketing tools that the Guyana Tourism Authority will be using, as well, to show case trade shows abroad.

The GTA Director highlighted that the partnership achieved with Visit Rupununi helped in the areas of marketing of new products and product development, joint ventures in community meetings and scoping, especially in training and capacity building.

He noted that the Agency was involved in tour guide training for North Rupununi residents, and hopes to facilitate a boat captain training soon. The

GTA Director urged the public to visit the Rupununi.

Visit Rupununi’s Tourism President, Melanie McTurk, noted that Visit Rupununi stakeholders recognised that strengthening the linkages between the region’s population, local and international NGOs regional and nationally especially the formalising of strategic partnerships with national tourism bodies such as the GTA and THAG will play a critical role in achieving this vision.

“Over the past three years, Visit Rupununi has worked with a mixture of community-based enterprises, private operators, regional organisations and most notably the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and the GTA to provide access to various training opportunities, representations at exhibitions, technical advice and as a forum for information and stakeholder input on a range of issues relevant to the development and enhancement of the sector”.

While echoing similar sentiments, Coordinator Candace Phillips said the production of the events showcased collaborative pieces that exhibited the key areas of the Rupununi.

She noted that the fold-

ers provided information on accommodation, tour operators and titled Amerindian villages. Phillips expressed gratitude to the GTA for publishing the first prints of the Rupununi calendar of events since it minimises the cost of the printing materials.

The calendar for the first time allows visitors and prospective visitors at a glance to know what are the big events and more importantly when.

For the domestic and international travelers, it will hopefully serve to provide information on the variety of products available and reiterate that the Rupununi is one destination with a variety of products to offer.

Travellers who seek more information can visit the website at http://www. visitrupununi.com/ Visit Rupununi was established in 2015 to develop international and local tourism through capacity building of communities and tourism service providers to market the destination, raising awareness within local communities and supporting the establishment of tourism services to provide quality, diversified and safe tourism and conserve the nature-based, traditional heritage of the Rupununi.

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Govt alone with its guns cannot 1st female elected chair of Grove/Diamond NDC reduce crime – pastor …rehabilitation programmes must be set up for ex-offenders

“G

overnment alone, with all their guns, vehicles and professionals, cannot reduce crime and recidivism; it takes the unmatched volunteerism and goodwill of the local faith-based authorities, and the resources of Government and donor agencies like the EU (European Union) and the Private Sector, to actualise the needed reduction in crime”.

These were the sentiments of Pastor Wendell Jeffrey, who is facilitating the 10th European Development Forum (EDF) on Crime and Violence Prevention and Social Development Project,

Pastor Wendell Jeffrey

ic-minded organisations”.

Through this collaboration, Jeffrey said, a post-release rehabilitation programme can be developed, as the need for an ex-offend-

A section of the persons being trained

being held with the intent of providing trainers with information to help ex-offenders in prison.

The Regional workshop, dubbed ‘Train-the-Trainers’, will focus on Restorative Justice under the ‘Sycamore Tree Project’ being held at the Grand Coast Hotel at Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara.

According to Jeffrey, the training will be geared towards training persons who happen to be ex-offenders, and the intent is to conduct rehabilitation programmes with prisoners.

He pointed out, “I have long argued that significant and precipitous decline in crime across the Caribbean states will only come when there is a formal marrying of governmental and corporate funding, coupled with the involvement of faithbased, private sector and civ-

er rehabilitation programme across the Caribbean remains evident.

According to him, the formal facilities should be a place “where ex-offenders can participate in programmes when they are released from prison”.

The facilitator noted that those institutions would need to be fully funded and managed for the sole purpose of transitioning individuals back into the society.

He pointed to the grave need for such a programme in Guyana, especially since only a few Caribbean countries currently have such provisions, and have earmarked monies for the intended purposes.

This much needed programme is being kicked off now, Jeffrey said, with the launch of the Train-theTrainers workshop, which will allow for over 60 persons

to be equipped with knowledge in the area of prison rehabilitation.

“The programme will build from a comprehension of what is termed restorative justice to the actual engagement of ex-offenders and recovering addicts in practical applications,” he explained.

Among the areas which will be discussed with prisoners are how their criminal behaviour would affect their victims, as well as the genesis of criminal behaviours of perpetrators.

Jeffrey’s statements were endorsed by the Head of the European Union Delegation to Guyana and Suriname, Jerney Videtic, who said that increased punishment will not be effective in lowering the crime rate.

According to him, “The assumption that increasing punishment will reduce crime can be applied to three categories of perspective offenders. The first category being criminals who believe they will be apprehended, the second being those who believe they will not be caught, and the third being delinquents who believe they might be arrested; so increasing penalty will only have an impact upon those who believe they might get caught”.

It is because of this that the diplomat noted that immediate sanctions should be imposed on perpetrators, rather than giving them lengthy stays in the prisons.

The EU is providing funding for the workshop, which will last for just about five days.

The Sycamore Tree Project is an in-prison restorative justice programme which seeks to bring together unrelated victims and offenders to discuss crime and its impact. It takes its name from the story of Zacchaeus and his encounter with Jesus in the Bible.

A senior member of the organizing team related that they aspire to reach the prisons and begin their mission

by January.

Chairperson Indrani Ramnarine and members of the Grove/Diamond Neighbourhood Democratic Council

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or the first time in the history of the Grove/Diamond Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), a female -in the person of educator Indrani Ramnarine -- is heading this NDC. This East Bank Demerara NDC held its elections on Thursday morning, and Ramnarine, of Constituency 6, was elected Chairperson, while Ulric Paul of Constituency 2 was elected Vice Chair. The votes were unanimous.

Following the recent hosting of the Local Government Elections (LGE), the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) secured 14 out of a total of 18 seats on that NDC, while A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) secured four seats.

The new members of the Grove/Diamond NDC were subsequently sworn-in.

Speaking with Guyana Times, the newly elected Chairperson expressed gratitude to her fellow council members for reposing confidence in her.

The 38-year-old resident of Golden Grove New Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara is a teacher at Providence Primary School, where she previously held the post of acting Headteacher, and currently sits on the Literacy Committee of Region Four’s Education Department.

A teacher by profession for the past 24 years, Ramnarine is also the Chair of the Women’s Arm of the East Bank Demerara Prant of

the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS).

“I’m humbly elated… My nomination was unanimous, and so was my election; so I felt honoured by it. And I am very much thankful for this opportunity,” she told this publication.

According to Ramnarine, high on her agenda as Chair of the NDC are matters relating to infrastructure maintenance; enhancement of the environment; senior citizens and social welfare, including education, since there are a number of schools in the area.

“Citizens’ partnership and development of the community is really my focus,” she added.

The newly elected Chair further noted that drainage and irrigation in the area is something which she observes needs more work, and irresponsible dumping of garbage in areas where persons are residing needs to stop.

Another matter Ramnarine posited that she would like to look into is getting citizens, especially from the Grove/Diamond New Scheme, to be registered within that Local Authority in time for the 2020 General and Regional Elections.

However, the Grove/ Diamond NDC has been in the limelight regarding an investigation into the embezzlement of over $20 million by a former employee of the local authority.

The former NDC Chairman, Bharrat Narine, who was re-elected in his constituency, had been advocating for the probe to be com-

pleted.

“Since this matter was exposed, the Auditor General’s Office visited and said they have a lot of work, and that is all we have heard from them; and this is not good enough, as with only 60 per cent of the internal audit completed, we found that $21 million were missing.

And with the remaining 40 per cent completed, it is estimated to be around $3035 million,” Narine had stated at a Regional Accounting Committee (RAC) meeting back in April.

The former NDC Head had noted that the matter continues to remain in the hands of the Auditor General, whom he said doesn’t seem interested in doing anything about it.

“Madam Chair, this matter has been with the AG’s Office since last year, and nothing has happened. We are exceptionally hurt, because it has been so long and nothing has happened.

I know that you and your office have been seeking to help in having this matter properly addressed; however, nothing has happened. We have been raising this matter over and over at all levels of meetings being held here at the RDC, but nothing has happened; and I am aware that you, Regional Chairman, have been trying to have it addressed,” he said.

Nevertheless, Ramnarine assures that she will be continuing her predecessor’s efforts to have the probe fully completed and the perpetrator brought to justice.

Less rainfall expected over next 3 months – Hydromet Office

…negative effects may be experienced late December

T

he Hydrometerlogical Office of Guyana on Friday disclosed that less than usual rainfall can be expected over the next three months, owing to climatic conditions affecting the oceans.

This was related during the fifth National Climate Outlook Forum (NCOF) at Herdmanston Lodge on Friday morning by a Specialist Meteorologist, Komalchand Dhiram.

“The next three months is usually packed with the usual rainfall that we’d have what we call or some people call it the Christmas rain or end of the year rain but be-

Specialist Meteorologist Komalchand Dhiram

cause of the existing El Nino that we have in the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean we

will have a decrease in that amount,” he explained.

Although persons can look forward to rain, the Specialist informed that it would not be the usual “Christmas rain”.

According to him, negative effects are more than likely to affect large-scale farmers by late December to early January 2019. Because of the effects that are likely, the department said an advisory will be issued later.

El Nino is a phenomenon which when present causes a warmth in the ocean that impacts the temperature of the water, which in turn affect the warmth in the atmo-

sphere as well, which then affects the conditions necessary to produce rainfall, he pointed out.

New webpage

Nonetheless, the Hydrometerelogical Office is currently working to develop its webpage to be able to provide updates on climate conditions as they become available.

According to Dhiram, the upgrade to the webpage has become necessary with the advancing of technology across the region and world at large. It is the department's hope to develop a web application (app) as the need may arise in the future.

He explained, “We’ve

been getting a lot of feedback from folks that it is important to have an app because that’s with the culture right now and that’s what society demands”.

The meteorologist informed that the office is currently engaged with the Columbia University, International Research Institute for Climate and Science so that the web application can be developed.

The new page, will be referred to as the ‘Maproom’, will allow users to click and access forecasts.

The web page will play a vital role in updating the public on how much rain fall to expect during which period, as this too has an im-

pact on tourist influx, he explained.

When developed, the information to the general public will be free of cost, Dhiram added. The meteorologist said the Department hopes to have the web base up and running by mid-next year.

The Maproom will be designed to include maps to depict where heavy rainfall is expected in the next six days, and how much rainfall is expected, along with where large or small amounts of rainfall are expected in the next three months, among others.

Additionally, maps will also show rainfall patterns that can be expected for El Nino.

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News

CoI report into City Hall handed over

CoI recommends disciplinary actions against King, senior staff ...for misconduct, incompetence

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hirty-one stringent recommendations have been presented to the Local Government Commission (LGC) on Friday as the Commission of Inquiry into the operation of City Hall completed its analysis after careful deliberations.

The report was handed over to the Local Government Commission (LGC) by Chairman of the CoI, Justice Cecil Kennard, who was accompanied by legal clerk Sherwin Benjamin.

Topping the list of recommendations was for disciplinary measures to be taken against senior staffers of the Town Council, along with Town Clerk Royston King as the one who had chiefly committed the gross misconduct.

Justice Kennard explained that criminal charges can be instituted, since King leased lands which are owned by the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL).

“The Town Clerk has no

Council itself does not have the authority to displace an employee. Now that you have the Local Government Commission, they will have to deal with all matters of discipline.”

Unfixed employees

Retire Justice Cecil Kennard presenting some of the findings at the handing over ceremony on Friday

Sharon Harry-Munroe is incompetent [and has committed] dereliction of duty.

Then we come to Omadeily Newton, she is completely incompetent…Andrew Foo (is guilty of) dereliction of duty. We then move to Paula Braithwaite…it clearly reveals that she is incompetent.

“Newton was appointed as the internal auditor even

clearly unwell; and accordingly, he should be made to proceed on retirement, because the evidence reveals that he has been absent from duty since February of this year,” it was stated.

The report also called for the Audit Office of Guyana to conduct a forensic audit into the council’s management even as officers are being disciplined.

Corriverton gets new Mayor, Deputy

Along with the reimbursement of monies to Bourda vendors whose stalls were destroyed, the Commission called for unfixed employees to be placed on the fixed schedule after serving seven years.

Among other things, unfixed employees should be placed on the fixed program after completing seven years, and all retirees must be paid their benefits and gratuity.

It was indicated that the councillors should not be paid gratuity, since they only sit at statutory meetings.

Tax defaulters

With outstanding rates in the millions due to defaulting taxpayers, it was recommended that there be mod-

Newly elected Mayor Winston Roberts

A

new mayor and a deputy were on Thursday elected to serve the town of Corriverton, Upper Corentyne Berbice.

Businessman Winston Roberts is the Mayor-elect, while his Deputy is fellow businessman Imran Amin.

Sixteen councillors have also been selected to serve on the Council. Following

the November 12 Local Government Elections, the People’s Progressive Party gained fourteen seats on the Council, while the APNU secured two seats.

Roberts, the 13th Mayor of Corriverton, has promised that there will be no new taxes, but residents are to benefit from improved streets under a proposed road rehabilitation programme. Also high on his agenda is the installation of more streets lights in the town.

Roberts says emphasis will be placed on rehabilitating the Line Path Cricket Ground, in addition to lobbying for a permanent landfill site.

Roberts has also assured the newly elected Aors that he will serve with integrity and commitment.

Rahaman family lights up 54-foot artificial Christmas tree

Members of the Local Government Commission during the handing over of the CoI report into City Hall

authority to issue lease…

The land in dispute is clearly that of NICIL, and not that of City Hall. I came to that conclusion on the basis of two transports,” he said.

NICIL would have provided statements to the Commission via its in-house Attorney, Arianne McLean, which would have detailed that the property was acquired by NICIL i n 2002.

The Guyana National Engineering Corporation (GNEC) would have vested all of its assets in NICIL and NICIL became the lawful owner of the property.

However, King leased the land to a shipping company, which made “questionable” payments.

Disciplinary actions have also been recommended for Acting Town Clerk Sharon Harry-Munroe; Internal Auditor Omadeily Newton; City Constable Andrew Foo, and Human Resources Manager Paula Braithwaite for complete incompetence and dereliction of duty.

“Evidence reveals that

though she is under-qualified, possessing only a Public Management Degree and therefore lacking accounting qualifications and experience.

“On the other hand, Foo was guilty of failing to issue a report in the height of an investigation. The Commission found that no formal report was made until October 17; one day after the Chief Constable had presented himself for questioning after being subpoenaed. This is more than two months after the incident would have occurred. In his defence, Foo stated that a ‘verbal report’ was given.

The City Engineer’s Department was under scrutiny for time lapses for plans to be approved, a process that should have taken weeks if all documents were submitted.

Meanwhile, it was recommended that City Treasurer Ron Mc Almont, who has been on leave since commencement of this year, proceed on retirement.

“The City Treasurer is

“I am recommending that there be further investigations in the form of a forensic audit to be conducted by the Audit Office of Guyana.”

No-confidence motion

The CoI also recommended that the Mayor send the no-confidence motion against King to the Local Government Commission for deliberation.

The motion was filed by Councillor Sherod Duncan, and it was revealed that the Mayor had allowed King to seek advice from his lawyer Maxwell Edwards, and this was presented to the Council. After that, King had requested that the motion be placed for discussion, but it was brought before the Council.

Justice Kennard requested that the Commission take precedence over the matter, since the Council does not have the remit to relieve King of his duties. “The then Deputy Mayor had raised certain serious allegations against the Town Clerk. The

erate increases in the taxes to assist the councillors, as well as strict efforts to retrieve outstanding debts.

Conversely, for contractors and retirees who are owed, the Government was suggested as the way forward in clearing these debts.

Until the report is studied by commissioners and suitable actions are taken, Chairman of the LGC, Mortimer Mingo, ascertained that the Town Clerk would remain on administrative leave.

“The Town Clerk was sent on administrative leave by the Local Government Commission, and until we finish our deliberations and make a determination as to what happens to the Town Clerk…, “said Mingo.

Commencing on September 22, the CoI hosted 15 sittings in which 50 persons testified. The hearings were completed on November 2 and the report was crafted after “Herculean” efforts from the Commission.

H

undreds turned out yesterday to witness the grand lighting up of the 54-foot artificial Christmas tree at Rahaman’s Park, Greater Georgetown.

This is the 12th year for the event, and according to the Rahamans, it is one that people look forward to.

Delivering brief remarks, Business Minister Dominique Gaskin commended the Rahaman family for hosting the event for the 12th consecutive year, and thanked the contributors who come together every year to witness the tree being lit.

“Every Christmas, this spot becomes the real entrance to Georgetown, especially at nights, when this beautiful tree is lit,” he said.

Minister Gaskin under-

scored that, during this season, everyone is urged to put aside their differences and “share the Christmas spirit across our beautiful multi-ethnic country”.

He posited, too, that the message of peace and goodwill is “extremely important for nation building”. “(It is important) not only to have the economy growing, and for us to improve our social services, but for us also to integrate more and more with each other,” he offered.

The event featured performances by the choirs of the Eccles Assembly of God Church, the Bishops’ High School, the Success Elementary School and the Brickdam Cathedral. In addition, a Linden masquerade band performed for those who were present at the event.

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Around the World

G20 Argentina: Rifts laid bare Trump claims win as US, Mexico, Canada as world leaders meet sign new trade deal

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W

The G20 photo ahead of Friday's plenary session

orld leaders have held the opening session of their annual G20 summit, with any number of disputes and disagreements on the table.

Host President, Argentina's Mauricio Macri, said the solution was "dialogue, dialogue and dialogue" and called for a clear message of shared responsibility.

But US President Donald Trump has already cancelled meeting Russia's Vladimir

Putin over Ukraine. And huge differences remain on climate change, trade and the Khashoggi affair.

The G20, made up of 19 of the world's most industrialised nations plus the EU, accounts for 85 per cent of the world's economic output and two-thirds of the world's population.

Its meetings, which began in 2008, are an opportunity for members to develop global policies tackling ma-

jor issues – but many of the key decisions will be made in one-on-one encounters.

There is massive security for the summit in Buenos Aires, with a bank holiday declared for Friday and the city's main business district shut down. Protesters angry at the money spent on the summit while Argentina struggles through tough austerity demonstrated outside the meeting.

The world leaders were

all called on to the stage and assumed their position for the traditional family photograph. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman stood on the outside of the photo, far away from Turkey's Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

This is the crown prince's first major diplomatic test since the murder in Turkey of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a key critic of the Government. (Excerpt from BBC News)

he leaders of the United States, Mexico and Canada on Friday signed a huge regional trade deal to replace the old NAFTA, denounced by President Donald Trump as a killer of US jobs.

But he insisted that the "incredible milestone" would aid US workers, especially in the auto industry, while putting in place "intellectual property protection that will be the envy of nations all around the world."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was less effusive about the renegotiated pact, but said the USMCA would resolve the threat of "serious economic uncertainty" that "would have gotten more damaging."

While praising the "historic" nature of the deal, Trudeau also told Trump that the progress gave "all the more reason why we need to keep working

to remove the tariffs on steel and aluminium between our countries."

Mexican President Pena Nieto, on his last day in office, called the revamped version of NAFTA important in shoring up "the view of an integrated North America with the firm belief that together we are stronger and more competitive."

For Trump – whose G20 diplomacy is overshadowed by legal troubles back home and his abrupt cancellation of a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin – the signing was a victory.

He said he did not foresee a problem in getting congressional approval. On Friday, he will meet with Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping to address the trade war triggered by Trump's insistence on China ending what he says have been decades of unfair trade practices. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Hand-foot-mouth outbreak Former female US Cop charged at ASJA Primary in T&T with the murder of St Lucian

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arents of pupils attending the San Fernando ASJA Primary School plan to keep their children away from classes today following reports of cases of hand-footand-mouth disease (HFMD).

They said exams were cancelled and classes were ended early on Thursday as a result of the suspected outbreak.

However, in a statement late yesterday, the Ministry of Education said all necessary health protocols had been implemented at the school. Tests were carried out on the compound by the

Ministry of Health personnel, but they have not yet confirmed the presence of the disease.

One parent said at least eight pupils in the Infant classes began suffering from severe diarrhoea and nausea and on Wednesday, when they were alerted to a possible outbreak, parents rushed to the school to pick up their children.

Minister in the Education Ministry, Dr Lovell Francis said doctors had treated three pupils for vomiting and dizziness. However, he said they have not yet provided a full report on the in-

cident.

In a letter, a copy posted to the Facebook page of the school’s Parent/Teachers Association (PTA), Principal Karen Mohammed invited parents of Infants One and Two pupils, together with PTA executives, to attend a sensitisation session with the Health Ministry on the disease.

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is a mild but contagious viral infection that is common in young children.

It is characterised by sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Alaska earthquake: Anchorage rocked by aftershocks

A

powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake has struck Alaska, causing people to run from buildings and prompting a tsunami alert for coastal areas of the state.

The quake was centred about seven miles (11km) north of Anchorage, the largest city in the state, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS).

A series of aftershocks were recorded following the initial shock, which had a depth of 40.9km, the USGS said. Around 300,000 people live in Anchorage with 100,000 in the surrounding area.

The earthquake was reported at 08.29 local time (17.29 GMT), the USGS added. One of the more powerful aftershocks that followed minutes later had a magnitude of 5.7.

So far, officials have

A

30-year-old former Dallas Police Officer, who fatally shot an unarmed St Lucian in his own apartment in September, was on Friday indicted on a murder charge.

Amber Guyger, shot dead 26-year-old Botham Jean, after claiming that she got off the wrong floor and went to Jean's apartment by mistake.

She was arrested on September 9, 2018, three days after the incident and according to the arrest warrant, Guyger said it was dark, she saw a figure she did not recognise and believed “she had encountered a burglar.”

The former Police Officer also said that the person did not follow her commands.

Jean died at the hospital and his mother, Allison Jean, a former senior public servant in St

Botham Jean (left) and Amber Guyger

Lucia, said her son had moved to Dallas to work at PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Guyger was initially arrested on a manslaughter charge and was released from jail on US$300,000 bond the same day she was arrested. She was also fired from the Dallas Police

Department.

Jean attended Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in St Lucia, before migrating to the US in 2011 to study accounting and management information systems at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. (Excerpt from

Jamaica Observer)

EU Ministers to finalise watereddown euro zone reform plans

E A road buckled and buildings shook when the earthquake hit near Anchorage

registered 40 aftershocks: 10 with magnitudes above 4.0 and three with magnitudes above 5.0, the Alaska Earthquake Centre reported. "The aftershocks are nerve-wracking, but we want to stress that they are what we would expect for an earthquake like this," the centre said in a tweet.

The quake was picked up by seismometers across the country in Boston, thousands of miles away.

The tsunami warning issued for the Cook Inlet and southern Kenai Peninsula regions has been cancelled.

Alaska's Governor Bill Walker has issued a declaration of disaster. (Excerpt from BBC News)

uropean Union Finance Ministers will seek final agreement on Monday on deeper euro zone integration which, after a year of negotiations, is likely to turn out much less ambitious than initially planned.

Championed by French President Emmanuel Macron, the reforms were meant to prepare the 19 euro countries for the next financial crisis and unite the EU around the single currency at a time of growing eurosceptic sentiment across the bloc.

But the talks ran into

many difficulties: Germany did not have a proper government for almost six months, Italy elected a eurosceptic administration and the talks exposed fault lines between the north and the south and even between institutions.

Even though the integration plans concern only the euro zone, all of the EU’s finance ministers except Britain’s will discuss them on Monday because all might adopt the euro at some point in the future.

The package agreed on Monday will then have to be endorsed by EU leaders on

December 14.

The initial ideas included the creation of a large euro zone budget financed by dedicated taxes and national contributions, a euro zone finance minister in charge of it and a euro zone assembly in the European Parliament for democratic control.

The ESM euro zone bailout fund was to be transformed into a European Monetary Fund with wider powers of monitoring euro zone economies and a key role in a sovereign insolvency mechanism that would manage potential debt restructuring. (Excerpt from Reuters)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

saturdAY, december 1, 2018

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

dilbert

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Look at what you have to work with to come up with a way to get things done and please others. Stick to the rules when it comes to financial records.

Get in touch with an older individual or arrange to visit someone you respect. A conversation you have will be informative and will help you make an important decision.

Plan to have some fun.

Sign up for an event or activity that will bring you in contact with good friends or that you can enjoy with your partner.

Think about what’s transpired and how to best handle a delicate emotional situation. If you act impulsively, you will have to backtrack. Let your intuition guide you.

A change you make at home will put you in a festive mood. Make plans to share upcoming events with loved ones. A shopping spree will lead to the perfect gift for someone special.

Make a point to listen carefully. Someone will be offering information that could help you avoid an argument if you are sensitive to his or her needs.

Ask for the go-ahead beLIBRA (Sept. 23- fore you make a decision that Oct. 23) will affect loved ones. The information offered regarding a job or item you want to purchase will be questionable.

WORD GAME TODAY’S WORD — HYPOCRISY

SUDOKU

(HYPOCRISY: hih-POK-rih-see: Behavior that contradicts what one claims to believe or feel.)

Average mark 21 words

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Participate in events that are geared toward helping those less fortunate. Your input will be valued and will lead to an offer of help from an unexpected source.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Put in extra hours and get ahead. The more you can put to rest now, the less stressful it will be as the year ends. Don’t leave anything until the last minute.

Time limit 40 minutes Can you find 32 or more words in HYPOCRISY? The list will be published Monday.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

YESTERDAY’S WORD — GUARANTY gantry

grunt

rangy

tangy

gaunt

agar

rant

tarn

gaur

angry

rung

tray

gnar

arty

runt

tuna

gnat

aunt

runty

turn

grant

aura

nary

yarn

gray

rang

tang

yurt

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

solution for LAST PUBLISHED puzzle AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Don’t let things eat away at you. Speak up and share your thoughts.

Communication will help you get past any pitfalls that could ruin a good relationship.

Set a budget that you can live with. Going into debt will not lead to a brighter future. You’ll be amazed at what you can do with what you have.

Keep your life simple and your words honest. You don’t want to give anyone the wrong impression. Helping out in your community will promote new friendships and improve your reputation.

saturdAY, december 1, 2018

19

GSSF end 2018 with successful Orinduik Development Steel Challenge

T

he Guyana Sport Shooting Foundation (GSSF) chose last weekend to end their calendar of activities with a Steel Challenge Shooting Match sponsored

by Orinduik Development Inc. The match, held on November 24 -- on the heels of Thanksgiving -- was well attended by members and invited shooters of the Guyana National Rifle Association (GNRA), and competition was held in three SCSA divisions: Production, Limited and Wildcat.

Wildcat Division saw competitors using .32ACP and any other calibre less than a 9mm, while those in the Production and Limited Divisions shot 9mm or higher calibre hand guns.

As an affiliate of the Steel Challenge Shooting Association, a sister body of the United States Practical Shooting Association, the GSSF has, over the years, been organising matches following its strict safety policies. This simple yet action-packed shooting sport attracts Guyanese pistol shooters from all around the country on a regular basis.

Steel Challenge Shooting is considered the fastest practical shooting competition in the world, having proven to be an exciting one consisting of three (3) different stages wherein competitors shoot at 5 individual steel targets per stage. Shooters are scored using an electronic timing device,

cerest gratitude to Brian Backer, Lt. Col. Charles Hutson, and the Board of Directors of Orinduik Development Inc. for the kind sponsorship. The Foundation also wishes to thank the Guyana Defence Force, Chief of Staff Brigadier Patrick West, Commissioner of Police Mr. Leslie James, OC Mr. Guy Nurse, the ranks of TSU and the GPF Armoury and the Guyana Police Force (GPF); and, of course, the media.

Additional gratitude is extended to Brigadier Patrick West and the GDF for the use of their range facility at Timehri; to Colin Changur of Muneshwers Travels, and to the Management of Clear Waters.

Production Division

Some of the participants in the Steel Challenge Match

penalties of added time are applied for any misses after the designated stop plate has been shot and the total time taken was the score, all while being closely monitored by the Foundation’s Range Safety Officers. The shooter with the lowest time to hit all the plates overall in the match in the respective divisions is declared the winner.

Beautiful trophies have been presented

by Lt. Colonel Charles Hutson, Director of Orinduik Development Inc., a private secu-

rity firm based on the East Coast and specialising in aviation security and VIP personal protection.

After remarks from Match Director and Stats Officer Dr. Pravesh Harry, President of the GSSF, Ryan McKinnon, delivered some brief remarks to the participants and spectators regarding the vision of GSSF for the New Year and plans to move the sport shooting forward.

The GSSF would like to extend its sin-

Practice game helped in gauging Windies bowling unit – Shadman – Bishoo confident of better batting show

S

hadman Islam, the 23-year-old Bangladesh opener, made a fine impression on his Test debut with a noteworthy hand of 76 against the Windies on Day 1 of the Dhaka Test.

On the back of Shadman's well-measured innings, the home side reached a respectable 259 for 5 at stumps.

Shadman, who compiled an innings of 73 in the practice match against the same opponents, noted that the warm-up game helped in his preparation to face the Windies bowling unit.

"The practice game helped me a lot, as I was

1st – Ryan McKinnon (61.39 seconds) 2nd – Rajiv Latchana (81.29 seconds) 3rd – Harold Hopkinson (95.40 seconds)

aware of their bowling unit," Shadman told reporters. "I planned the same way I had planned against them in the practice game," he added.

Shadman also said the senior players in the Bangladesh camp encouraged him to play his natural game. "The seniors are very experienced, and they told me to bat like the way I bat in domestic cricket. They asked me not to do anything extra, and (to) play my natural game without taking any kind of extra pressure," he said.

Shadman's impressive start to his Test career comes in the wake of Bangladesh

struggling to find a pair of in-form openers in the traditional format of the game.

Liton Das could accrue just 47 runs in the Test series versus Zimbabwe.

Meanwhile, Imrul Kayes has aggregated just 97 runs over his previous three Tests.

To make matters worse, Kayes was laid low by a shoulder injury in the first Test against the Windies, and was subsequently replaced by Shadman.

Bangladesh are also without the services of Tamim Iqbal, who suffered a finger injury in the Asia Cup. Shadman, who has scored

648 runs in first class cricket this year, felt he could have contributed more to the team's cause, and finish with a hundred on Test debut.

"There is regret, because everyone would like to score a hundred on debut. I tried to give my best shot in the middle, (but) probably couldn't fulfil the requirements totally, as I felt I could (have) contributed a bit more for the team,” he said.

The Windies leg-spinner stressed that the track is playing well, and the players are confident of putting up an improved show when it's their turn to bat.

"The pitch is better than the previous one. It is just a bit slow. It is flatter. It is good for batting," he said.

"The wicket will hold up a bit, for the first three days it will play good. But we have to see how it goes from the third afternoon onwards. No matter how the wicket plays, we have to bat properly.

"We have to play to win the match. It is a long way ahead, but we are focused on what we have to do. We have to find a way to bat against the spinners properly," he declared.

Limited Division

1st – Pravesh Harry (73.46 seconds) 2nd – Mohamed Qualander (76.23 seconds) 3rd – John Phang (80.37 seconds)

Wildcat Division

1st – Clint McKenzie (107.64 seconds) 2nd – Jagmohan Bassoo (202.63seconds) 3rd – Lindsay Baird (235.30 seconds)

Pooran making up for lost opportunities

W

indies middle order batsman Nicholas Pooran has admitted he is hoping to make up for lost opportunities after a productive recent spell at the crease.

Coming off a strong performance in the T20 series against India, Pooran has continued his powerful hitting going into the T10 League. In five matches, the Trinidad and Tobago native has plundered 213 runs.

Pooran, who represents the Northern Warriors, is second on the runs scoring list behind compatriot Andre Fletcher who has scored 225 runs for the Pakhtoons. On Thursday, Pooran’s 43 enabled the Warriors to rout defending champions Kerala Knights by eight wickets.

"I've been opening the batting so I get more time in the middle. I'm just happy now that I can perform for my team,” Pooran said.

"I feel when things are going your way you need to capitalise and that's what I'm doing. I'm happy that I've been consistent,” he added.

"The game is changing every day. Batsmen are not afraid to try different things.

It's just become tougher and Nicholas tougher for the bowlers. I'm Pooran happy I'm not a bowler.

But there is Wahab (Riaz) who did excellently well for us last year and this year. Also today (Thursday) our bowlers bowled well against the Kerala Knights, credit to them." (Sportsmax)

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

saturdAY, december 1, 2018

2018-2019 CWI Regional 4-Day tournament…

Jaguars announce squad for first round

By Brandon Corlette

D

Veerasammy Permaul efending 4-Day c h a m p i o n s , Guyana Jaguars announce their squad for the first round against the Windward Islands Volcanoes at the Darren Sammy National Cricket Stadium scheduled for Thursday December 6 to Sunday December 9.

After two trial matches and continuous fitness training drills, the Jaguars team is fully-prepared for the opening match.

The 13-man squad is expected to leave Monday morning, December 3, 2018 for St Lucia, where they will play against the likes of former test spinner, Shane Shillingford.

Tevin Imlach, who has represented the West Indies under 19 team, is the new-addition to the squad. Imlach has also represented the West Indies B team in the 2018-2019

Regional Super 50 Tournament where he shared dressing room with veteran Windies batsman Marlon Samuels.

The Darren Sammy surface in St Lucia has proved to be spin conducive in the recent World T20 tournament, but with the red cricket ball, fast bowlers will be important in the 4-Day format. Keon Joseph, Romario Shepherd and Clinton Pestano may feature in the pace-attack while Christopher Barnwell will offer support with his medium pace.

The spin attack will be led by the vastly experienced Veerasammy Permaul who has played over 100 First Class matches for Guyana. Permaul will be supported by his Albion teammate and fellow left-arm spinner, Gudakesh Motie.

Leon Johnson has led the Jaguars brilliantly in recent times, and will be called upon to score the bulk of the runs for his team. Trevon Griffith, who is making a return to the Jaguars 4-Day team after playing for Jamaica Scorpions, will be expected to produce good starts with the ever-composed Tagenarine Chanderpaul.

The middle order will feature vice-captain and former West Indies test player, Vishaul Singh; wicket-keeper batsman Anthony Bramble, Barnwell and specialist batsman Akshya Persaud. Having the privilege to make changes to the squad over the course of the 10 rounds of the tournament, in spin-friendly tracks such as Providence, Ramaal Lewis may be considered for play in the starting eleven. Esaun Crandon is the head coach and Rayon Griffith is the assistant coach/manager.

Squad reads: Leon Johnson (captain), Vishaul Singh (vice-captain), Trevon Griffith, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Anthony Bramble, Veerasammy Permaul, Gudakesh Motie, Akshya Persaud, Christopher Barnwell, Clinton Pestano, Romario Shepherd, Keon Joseph and Tevin Imlach

PMTC 1 crowned champs at 6th Annual Balram Shane Volleyball tourney

PMTC 1 have continued their fine run as one of the best volleyball teams around

P

ort Mourant Training Centre 1 (PMTC 1) showed why they are among the best volleyball units in Guyana, as they starred in the 6th Annual Balram Shane inter-club/ Castrol of Demerara tournament held in the Ancient County of Berbice.

The Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA) sanctioned the tournament, which saw some of the county’s best players as well as teams vying for cash and prizes.

Sunday’s event saw

an all-out brawl between eventual champs PMTC1, PMTC2, Black Bush Polder, Rollers of New Amsterdam, and Castrol of Demerara.

With the tournament being set for the senior players, the prelude in the newbie categories saw Black Bush, Corriverton Jets and #47 doing battle, with Black Bush Polder toppling the Jets 30-22 in the final to win that category.

The senior event was filled with intensity, as the five teams sought to reach

the final stage. In the end it was PMTC 1 and New Amsterdam’s Rollers which collided in the finals, having completed a number of wins during 2018. The PMTC 1, which is coached by Guyana Volleyball Federation (GVF) President Levi Nedd, easily overcame their opponents, beating them 30-21.

For their efforts, the champs walked away with the trophy and $20,000, while the runners-up settled for second place spoils of $10,000 and a trophy.

– Imlach lone new-comer

Team Guyana Jaguars

Gayle, Russell among Windies players retained for IPL 2019 – Narine retained for US$1.2M by KKR

Sunil Narine

T

20 ‘Universe Boss’, Chris Gayle, is one of the five high-profile West Indian players retained by their respective franchises ahead of the 2019 Indian Premier League (IPL).

The veteran Windies opener has found favour with his new franchise, the Kings XI Punjab, for whom he provided services last season. Gayle, leading T 2 0

Chris Gayle

run-scorer, could likely play his last if not penultimate year of IPL, giving that he would be touching 40 in a bit.

Gayle has, however, been retained by King’s XI Punjab for roughly US$160,000, after the franchise decided that Gayle’s impeccable form last season, which had seen a shower of hundreds and fifties, was enough to give the legend another crack at the apple.

Gayle’s countryman and star T20 player Andre Russell has been retained

by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a whooping price tag of US$974,000 after he also had turned up the head in both departments for his franchise during last year’s edition.

Russell will also be accompanied this season by his Windies teammate, the million-dollar man Sunil Narine, who is undoubtedly not going to be traded. Narine has transformed his game from a world-class mystery spinner to a flashy, dangerous opening batsman who can still outfox the best batters; making his million-dollar auto-

matic re-booking by KKR a no-brainer.

Windies opener Evin Lewis will feature in another stint for the Mumbai Indians, along with the franchise’s veteran all-rounder Kieron Pollard, who has been with the franchise since its inception. The lefthander Lewis was retained for a decent price of approximately US$350,000, while the veteran Pollard has racked up a retainer of US$425,000.

One notable attraction this season is Jofra Archer, who has seen his stock rise handsomely and his being retained by the Rajasthan Royals for this season.

Archer, the Barbados-born former West Indies U19 pacer, has been making a buzz in the cricket world for over a year, while his dreams of playing for England could soon be realized; but he would meantime want t o work for his more than half a million dollars this season.

Jofra Archer

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21

BCB concludes its 19th tournament for 2018 T

he Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) has completed its 19th tournament for the year 2018, marking it successful as they aim to complete more tournaments before the year concludes.

Prior to last week, the curtains came down on the BCB’s 18th tournament, wherein the New Amsterdam Technical Institute easily defeated Lower Corentyne by 173 runs at the Area H Ground in Rose Hall Town to win the Region 6 Mogu Mogu Under-19 Inter Secondary School title.

The BCB went on to complete its 19th tournament when it hosted the historic finals of the Berbice River 40-Over Cricket tournament. The match was played at the Albion Ground in front of vocal spectators, who travelled up the Berbice River to lend their support to their favourite team.

The winning team poses with the trophy

In the grand finale, a thriller, Wiruni defeated Sandhills by four wickets to claim the title.

Batting first, Sandhills posted a meagre total of 125 all out in their allotted 28.2 overs, wherein Leon Swammy top scored with

30, Joshua Leacock scored 29, and Ryan DeNobrega offered resistance with 17, as Delroy Osborne’s 4-34 ripped through their batting lineup.

He was supported by Solomon King and Samuel Seegolam, who respective-

ly grabbed 2-17 and 2-5. In response, Wiruni chased the total down in 18.5 overs, ending on 126-6 as Melroy DaSilva (31 not out) and Kwesi Sinclair (28) guided the team over the line.

Bowling for Sandhills were Leon Swammy, who picked

up 2 for 18, and Joshua Leacock, who picked up 2-26.

Captains of the two teams -- Joshua Leacock and Johnny Sinclair -hailed the outstanding work of the BCB, and noted that they are very pleased with the current status of Berbice Cricket. President Hilbert Foster committed the BCB to hosting at least four cricket tournaments in 2019 in the Berbice River area, and to also assist clubs in any possible way.

The President also invited the Berbice River Sub-Association to select a team to play under lights at the same venue, and a date suitable to them.

It was a privilege for the players to be playing at the same historic venue that hosted the first ODI in the Caribbean. The winning team and runner up of the finals received a trophy and cash prizes.

Trophy Stall Port Mourant/UCCA U19 50-Over Tournament…

Wins for Scottsburg United, No66 and No72 in first round

T

he Trophy Stall Port Mourant, Berbice- sponsored Upper Corentyne Cricket Association (UCCA) Under-19 50-over round robin competition played Saturday last saw Scottsburg United, No.66 Cricket Club and No. 72 Cut & Load secure victories in round one.

The competition continues today, when No. 73 Cricket Club battle with the Radha Krishna Foundation Academy, while No. 66 attempt to overthrow Scottsburg United and No. 72 Cut and Load duke it out with No. 48 Cricket Club.

In last week’s action, Scottsburg

Seiraj Chatterpaul took 6 for 21 to lead No. 72 to victory

United defeated Radha Krishna Foundation Academy by 37 runs at Scottsburg Ground. Batting first, Scottsburg United scored 90 all out in their allotted 24 overs, with Akhtar Nohar top scoring with 18 and C. Bubhram supporting with 15. Radha Krishna Foundation Academy had Rasheed Alli lead the bowling department with 3 for 9, while Vedanand Kumar had 3 for 26 and N. Doodnauth had 3 for 26.

In reply, Radha Krishna was unable to chase down the total, and was bowled out for 53 in 17.4 overs, with S. Nohar bagging 6 for 13 and R. Jamalodeen supporting with 2 for 17.

At the No. 48 ground, No. 66 Cricket Club defeated No. 48 by 7 wickets. After winning the toss, No. 48 elected to bat first, and were bowled out for 81 runs in 20 overs.

Sunil Singh top scored with 15.

No. 66’s Jason Boodhan took 4 for 26 in 4.2 overs, and Naresh Satram claimed 3 for 24 in his 4 overs. In Reply, No. 66 overhauled the score, losing 3 wickets in the process as Charran Singh top scored with 23.

At the No. 72 Ground, the home team was led by Seiraj Chatterpaul, finishing with 6 – 21 as they brushed aside No. 73 with relative ease.

GAPLF National Seniors commence tomorrow

A

s one more day remains before the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) promises to illuminati the Saints Stanislaus Auditorium on Brickdam when they host the 2018 edition of the Senior National Championships, which are set to commence at 10:00h.

From this competition, athletes will be vying for the top prize of being selected for the 2019 National Team.

Thus far, 26 athletes have been confirmed for the event, of which 6 are females. The 84+ kg event will feature Natoya Robinson and Runita White as the main attraction for the female category.

Athletes participating in ‘Flight A’ are expected to be at the venue for 8:00 am for the weigh in, as that would last no longer that 9:30

Guyana’s eldest bodybuilder Noel Cummings

am, while the athletes from ‘Flight B’ are expected at the

weigh-in at 11:30 am sharp.

The competition will also

feature Guyana’s oldest active body builder, 70 year

old Noel Cummings as he will be aiming to best his performance in May 2018.

Also competing in the competition are Vijai ‘Ants Man’ Rahim, 2018 Novices Overall Champion Timothy Bagla, The PowerPuff Girls Grace and Blossom Babb, 2018 NAPF Overall Champion Carlos Petterson, Junior 93 kg sensation Bishen Sasenarine, Jack Tony, Christopher Sookdeo and Hardat Darson.

Tickets cost $1,000, and can be purchased directly from GAPLF executive members, or from Buddy’s Gym. The entrance fee at the gate will be $1,500.

Breakfast will be on sale Entities on board thus far are Buddy’s Gym, Fitness Express, Trophy Stall and Dyna’s Embroidery.

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GUYANATIMESgy.COM

saturdAY, december 1, 2018

Hamilton Green 9-a-side Inter-Ward/Village KO Cup…

Action intensifies as final stage looms

F

or over two decades, the month of December has been littered with heightened football activity, and this year’s Hamilton Green 9-a-side Inter-Ward/Village KO Cup definitely contributes to this development.

When play in this competition resumes tomorrow at the Den Amstel Community Centre ground on the West Side, it will add to the excitement to which football fans have become accustomed in the final month of the year.

In the opening fixture, to be played from 17:00hrs, Wales -- having in their line-up the likes of Quincy Ashley, Rolando Thomas, Alexander Clark and Sharmea Jones -- will lock horns with the star-studded Charlestown lineup, whose quest for a win will rest of the performances of Jamal Cozier, Devon Charles, Kareem Knights and Curtez Kellman.

In the game to follow, Sophia tackles Sara Lodge, and the Smith combination -- which includes Ernie, Peter and Simon, along with Jason Clarke -- will lead the Sophia charge for victory; while Jalen Williams, Stephon Griffith, Seam Miller and Denzil Smith will aim to do the same for Sara Lodge.

Goed Fortuin then go up against Central Mackenzie, and this match promises to provide plenty action for the fans.

Central Mackenzie’s ambition to advance will rely on the performances of players such as Seon Barrett, Marvin Sullivan, Orlanzo Thurman and Emanuel Atkins; while Anthony and Ashley Harding, Terrence Morgan and Glenroy Semple will be the spearhead of Goed Fortuin’s challenge for a place in the final.

Newtown Kitty then take to the field to oppose Soesdyke, and this encounter could likewise supply the kind of action that is normal at this stage of a competition, when teams battle for the final spots.

Anthony Sancho, Pernel Schultz, Steffon Reynolds and Simeon Moore are the marquee players for Newtown; while Seosdyke will be led by Roger Dey, Delon Smith, Tyrone Khan and Dwayne Barker.

Pouderoyen and Mahaicony then go toe to toe for a place on final day, and this could be another humdinger.

Kayode King, Keron Boyce, Dwayne St.

must see the former start as strong favourites to progress, especially playing on home turf and with the likes of national player Delon Lanferman, together with Leo Lovell, Rayan Hunte, Kester Dundas and Jeffrey Perreira in the squad.

Crane’s hope of silencing the anticipated rabid support will depend heavily on Kwesi Henry, Jamal Mounter, Taylor Wharton and Oswin Boyce.

Mahaica drew a bye

Pernell Schultz

Kitts and Steffon Jupiter are all capable of match winning performances, and Pouderoyen will definitely b e

hoping for them to set up a win; while Mahaicony will no doubt be relying on the

likes of Ruel Chester, Kenroy D’ Aguiar, Jason Wronge and Mark Roberts to enhance their chance to advance.

Uitvlugt then oppose Timehri, and the West Side challenge will be led by national player Trayon Bobb, along with Seon Bobb, Keon Duke and Daniel Floy; while the visitors’ desire to create an upset will depend on the services of Owen Denny, Prince Forde, Kevin Sobers and Monty Walcott.

The final game of the night -- between hosts Den Amstel and Crane --

The winning and runner-up teams will receive $400,000 and $200,000 respectively along with trophies, while Highest Goal scorer and Most Valuable Player will collect gifts compliments of China Trading and A.H. & L Kissoon Limited, and trophies donated by Javon Dazzell.

Among the sponsors on board for this activity are: Ministry of Citizenship, Courtney Benn Construction Services, Techno Mills, IPA, Alfro Alphonso, Sattaur Gafoor, ANSA McAL, Top Brandz Distributors, MACORP, Starr Computers, Cummings Electrical, Ready Mix, B.K International, New Thriving, e-Networks, NaMilCo, Sleep In, Comfort Sleep, and E.C Vieira Investments.

Banks DIH on board Sunday’s S

unday’s highly-anticipated “Race of Champions” meet being held by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Horse Racing Committee has the decided advantage of the full support of beverage giants Banks DIH, who have thrown their support behind the mega-race.

The Port Mourant Turf Club in Berbice will come alive this weekend with 10 exciting races, set to get underway from 12:00h.

During a simple presentation ceremony held at Thirst Park, the beverage company handed over the sponsorship cheque and the first place trophy for the feature race to promoter Nasrudeen Mohamed, Jnr, who received the pack-

“Race of Champions” horse race meet

age from Export Manager of Banks DIH Limited, Shavini Tulsi, in the presence of Outdoor Events Manager Mortimer Stewart and other members of the Sales Department.

Sunday’s inaugural “Race of Champions” meet will see horses covering distances of 1300 metres for prizes close to $2 million; and Mohamed has added that all races are expected to start on time, with entries being paid for, while jockeys are to be weighed 15 minutes prior to the race. Meanwhile, the organising committee has advised that only entry forms provided by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee will be accepted.

Export Manager of Banks DIH Limited, Shavini Tulsi, hands over the Championship Trophy to Nasrudeen Mohamed Jnr in the presence of members of the Sales Department of Banks DIH Limited

23

guyanatimesgy.com

saturdAY, december 1, 2018

58th Annual National Schools Cycling, Swimming, Track and Field Championships

4 in 4! District 10 takes overall championships again Swimming Boy Girl U10 Eon Mc Lean Jasmine Allen U12 Jeron Sookram Kayla Hardy U14 Raekwon Noel Aleka Persaud U16 Leon Seaton Latisha Blair U18 George Telford Amy Grant U20 Fitzroy Thom & Nikhil Ramnarine Monique Watson Cycling Boy Girl U14 Jason Campbell Daniela Hackett U16 David Hicks CliveciaSpencer Open Ajay Gopilall Abigale Jeffrey

District 13 celebrates after winning the teachers’ championships and ending second overall

T

he curtains closed on the National Schools Athletics Championships for yet another year on Friday night; and for the fourth year running, Upper Demerara/Kwakwani, District Ten, have been crowned champions.

A sea of gold and black celebrated as the official results were announced late into Friday night, indicating that District Ten had won the competition for the seventeenth year in the championship’s 58-year history.

Although Upper Demerara/ Kwakwani only won the track and field aspect of the championships this year, their performances in swimming and cycling were enough to hand them the overall championships, edging out once again their fierce rival and runners-up, South Georgetown, District 13.

The final day of competition

saw the running off of the 400 metre finals and the greatly anticipated 4x100 metre Open relays. The female team out of District 3 (West Demerara) took top honours in the female relay.

They were followed by District 10 and District 12, who finished in second and third respectively.

The male contest, however, did not go on without a disturbance, as the West Coast Berbice contingent took to occupying the track in an act of protest. The District 5 male relay team was disqualified owing to a late baton pass, a decision that the supporters of the district were not happy with. As such, they urged the athletes to take action.

After all was settled, the male 4x100 metre race took off at top speed. District 4 proved to be the best, beating out District 10 and District 13, who finished second

and third respectively.

Aside from the pomp and splendor of the overall championships, the youth athletes were rewarded for their individual brilliance over the sixday competition. The Champion Boy and Champion Girl accolades are what many aspiring Guyanese athletes hope to achieve in their school life; and as such, there were many contenders taking up both track and field events in order to cop local athletics’ Holy Grail. In addition to the overall championships, North Georgetown (District 11 were the victors of the Swimming competition. Corentyne (District 6) took the cycling championships, while South Georgetown (District 13) took the teachers’ championships.

This year’s champions are as follows:

Track and Field Boy U8 Shem Thompson U10 David Williams

U12 Jaden Chu U14 David Higgins U16 Melon Lowenfield U18 Randy Hamilton & Nkosi Leitch U20 Joshua Jones Rekie Williams Open

Girl

Shaquana Collins Akeela Dover Tiana Springer Odessa France Keliza Smith Deshana Skeete Virlyn Gibson Sheama Tyrell

Official Overall Results: District 10- Upper Demerara/ Kwakwani 66 13- South Georgetown 54 11- North Georgetown 54 3- West Demerara 50 12- East Georgetown 47 6- Corentyne 46 15- New Amsterdam 44 42 4- East Coast Demerara 7- Bartica 39 14- East Bank Demerara 34 5- West Coast Berbice 34 1-North West 32 2- Essequibo Coast/ Pomeroon 28 9- Rupununi 20 8- Potaro Siparuni 19

Points

Shadman, Shakib half-centuries hand Bangladesh the advantage

Bangladesh Skipper Shakib Al Hasan scored an unbeaten half-century

Shadman Islam hit a solid fifty for Bangladesh on debut

B

angladesh spent a refreshingly solid day with the bat, ending the first day on 259 for 5 against West Indies on a Shere Bangla National Stadium pitch that has already started to turn and break. But the visitors couldn't really break the home side's doggedness - even with spin as debutant Shadman Islam spent more than three hours at the crease for his 76 while Shakib Al Hasan bookended the day with an unbeaten 55.

Shakib and Mahmudullah batted out the final 22.3 overs of the day, adding 69 runs for the unbroken sixth-wicket stand.

Mahmudullah remained unbeaten on 31 off 59 balls with one four; Shakib too struck just the one boundary in his 113-ball stay. The pair went through a 19-over phase that didn't have a single boundary. It was slow for sure, but it effectively blunted the West Indian attack.

Bangladesh's batting throughout the day was pleasantly steady, particularly Shadman who became the eighth Test debutant for Bangladesh this year. He struck six fours in his 199ball innings, spanning three mid-sized partnerships with Soumya Sarkar, Mominul Haque and Mohammad Mithun.

Bangladesh lost two wickets in each in the day's first two sessions. They went to lunch on 87 for 2 though they could have done with Mominul's ill-timed dismissal. Off the penultimate ball of the first session, Mominul pulled a rank half-tracker from Kemar Roach into midon's lap.

He was hitherto involved in a 45-run stand with Shadman, who had earlier put on a 42-run opening stand with Soumya Sarkar.

Shadman was steady throughout, hitting three fours on either side of the lunch break. His first runs came via an off-drive struck beautifully, before he

crunched two fours through point and cover.

After lunch, Shadman and Mithun batted with more patience. Shadman reached his fifty with a boundary off Jomel Warrican before Devendra Bishoo first ended the 64-run stand by clean bowling Mithun, who has now got out to the legspinner thrice in as many innings.

Bishoo then had Shadman lbw with a delivery that went on straight with the roundthe-wicket angle, ending an impressive first Test innings.

Mushfiqur Rahim's trouble with deliveries angled into his stumps from outside off-stump continued when Shermon Lewis bowled him

3

SCOREBOARD

Bangladesh 1st Innings Shadman Islam lbw b Bishoo 76 Soumya Sarkar c Hope b Chase 19 Mominul Haque c Chase b Roach 29 Mohammad Mithun b Bishoo 29 Shakib Al Hasan (c) not out 55 Mushfiqur Rahim b Lewis 14 Mahmudullah not out 31 Extras: (lb 2, nb 4) 6 TOTAL (90 Overs, RR: 2.87) 259/5 Yet to bat: Liton Das †,

with that exact delivery. But he was at the crease for long enough to complete his 4,000

Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan FOW: 1-42 (Soumya Sarkar, 15.3 ov), 2-87 (Mominul Haque, 33.5 ov), 3-151 (Mohammad Mithun, 56.1 ov), 4-161 (Shadman Islam, 58.5 ov), 5-190 (Mushfiqur Rahim, 67.3 ov) BOWLING: KAJ Roach (151-38-1), SH Lewis (12-1-351), RL Chase (21-0-61-1), JA Warrican (19-2-46-0), D Bishoo (19-1-69-2), KC Brathwaite (4-0-8-0)

Test runs, when he made cut a Bishoo legbreak for his eighth run. (ESPNCricinfo)

saturdAY, december 1, 2018

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

guyanatimesgy.com

58th Annual National Schools Cycling, Swimming, Track and Field Championships

4 in 4! District 10 takes overall championships again Page 23

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“Race of Champions” horse race meet

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Shadman, Shakib halfcenturies hand Bangladesh the advantage

Page 23

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