Guyana Times - November 27, 2018

AmCham, ACCA sign MOU for P2 accountancy training in oil sector

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

Issue No. 3759

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Tuesday, November 27, 2018

$300.7B Budget

PRICE

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Gunman in $8.9M casino heist jailed P8

presented to National Assembly ...no measures for ordinary citizens Pages 3,9,11&10

…Private Sector disappointed over non-reduction of excise tax on fuel

…$1000 increase for pensioners

...tax exemptions for dentures, electric cars …$100M for “expertise” for Demerara River crossing tenders

Sunken North West vessel

Businesswoman estimates millions in losses P12

Charity Market vendors slammed for dumping garbage in waterways P15

…as Govt seeks more loans as ECD/EBD bypass road costs spike by US$70M

Budget 2019 “visionless and disappointing”, lacks investment measures – Jagdeo Page 7

Carjackers steal parked car from EBD P15 yard

UG Berbice campus hosts anti-violence fair P13

… says Party cannot support Budget in current form

Robbery thwarted

Police intercept car with guns, ammo, false numberPage plates …3 would-be bandits nabbed 13

Puran, Cevons officially pull services from M&CC P2 Page 2

2 news

tuesdAY, November 27, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

AmCham, ACCA sign MoU for accountancy training in oil sector

T

he American Chamber of Commerce of Guyana (AmCham) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) have inked a twoyear Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) providing capacity building and training for interested accountants across the Private Sector.

At a simple ceremony at the Marriott Hotel on Monday, officials of both organisations finalised the agreement and shared some of the prospects that were expected in time for the forthcoming oil industry.

Head of ACCA Caribbean, Shelly Ann Mohammed explained that the agreement was aimed at developing the skills of accountants in Guyana to take them through the changing economy.

“It is our hope that through this formalised partnership, we will be able to work together in the coming years to further develop the accounting profession in Guyana as well as to collaborate on training and initiatives to equip local finance professionals with skills to thrive in a rapidly-changing professional environment,”

ACCA Caribbean Head Shelly Ann Mohammed and AmCham Guyana President Zulfikar Ally signing the MoU agreement

stated Mohammed.

The ACCA is known for its contributions in developing this profession over the past 30 years in several countries around the world.

The ACCA official highlighted some of the goals for the company in Guyana, stating “our core values are aligned to the needs of the employers in all sectors and we show that through our range of qualifications.

We prepare accountants for business. ACCA is committed to helping growth in Guyana by partnering with all stakeholders to think ahead to connect markets and communities and to use our global range to support the profession to flourish and grow.”

In his remarks, AmCham Guyana President Zulfikar Ally gave a highlight of some of the areas that will be targeted during these training courses and emphasised that this programme was open to all stakeholders.

“We’re focusing on training and development of accountants within the business community. It would not only be just for AmCham members, but any business who are interested in learning from the collaboration we have with ACCA. We will focus on areas of anti-money laundering, new accounting practices, leadership, global recognition, ethics in accounting and governance.”

Oil industry preparations

During this engagement, several persons spoke on the sidelines about the oil prospects in Guyana and developing a strong local content framework for the country’s protection. Mohammed pointed out that building a strong accounting background was essential and would reduce the country’s dependence on foreign accountants.

“I think it will be very important to build the finance department of those oil and gas companies, because they’re going to need strong auditing, strong accounting background and some might be global companies so the standards are going to be in alignment with global recognition … Part of building local content is important – not just to utilise the foreign accountants but to make sure we build capacity in Guyana,” she said.

She insisted that they were looking at feedback from the training to identify how impactful the sessions would be on preparations for the oil sector.

“Our companies in Guyana are really going to need this capacity building, especially because of the oil and gas development that is happening. Over the next

few days, we hope that we can see the impact of the training and capacity building that we do.”

AmCham President Ally noted that Guyana could also learn from ACCA Caribbean, since Trinidad and Tobago had vast experience in both oil and natural gas.

“It is very significant because in Guyana, we don’t have that capacity as yet.

Oil and gas is very new to us. We’re hoping to collaborate with them and benefit from them, given the experience that they have already to help our members and the Private Sector.”

Puran, Cevons officially pull services from M&CC

A

fter considering the feasibility of operating without payments and being owed for over six months, two major garbage collectors of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) – Puran Brothers Disposal Incorporated and Cevons Waste Management – withdrew their services on Monday as planned.

This was confirmed by the Solid Waste Management Director, Walter Narine, who informed that small contractors have already stepped in to provide garbage collection services in the city. However, all of them will alternate until the issue is sorted out.

“Purans and Cevons would have pulled their services as of today (Monday).

They (small contractors) would have already stepped in. We won’t see all of them out today because they work different days,” said Narine.

Guyana Times understands that the owed companies were delaying the withdrawal of their services as they waited for City Hall to offer some of the $160 million owed to them, but since this was not forthcoming they implemented the full withdrawal.

Until payment is made in a significant sum, the garbage collectors are contending that their withdrawal stands. For now, garbage collection services will be provided by five small agencies: Granderson, Trash Tech, Tri Star, C&S Services

and Garbage Eaters.

Puran Brothers Managing Director Khalesh Puran had previously told Guyana Times that he had high hopes of being paid.

However, a meeting was facilitated by the Council the following day and no positive resolution surfaced.

It was also indicated that the companies were engaged by the Council several times, but there were no discussions on how these payments would be made. The last engagement was on Friday and this prompted the two firms to divulge that they have “no confidence” in the local body.

They explained that they withdrew their service over an outstanding debt of $160 million. Shockingly, the companies noted that this debt accumulated from June of this year.

According to the companies, they want their June and July arrears paid

by November month end; August and September payments by December 31 and the resumption of regular payments as stipulated in their contracts in February.

They called on Government to intervene in support of this process to ensure efficient garbage disposal.

In a statement dated last week, City Hall explained that “… because of a serious financial shortfall, the Council is unable to honour its obligation to both contractors in a timely manner, a situation which the Council regrets.”

news

3

TUESdAY, November 27, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

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

Tuesday, November 27 – 05:00h-06:30h and Wednesday, November 28 – 09:00h-10:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Tuesday, November 27 – 07:20h-08:50h and Wednesday, November 28 – 08:20h-09:50h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Thundery to light rain showers can be expected throughout the day and evening. Temperatures will range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 07:17h and 19:33h reaching maximum heights of 2.52 metres and 2.59 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 13:05h reaching a minimum height of 0.76 metre.

saturDAY, novemBER 24, 2018

LOTTERY NUMBERS J

01 04 08

23 25 27

FREE TICKET monDAY, november 26, 2018

14 Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

08 14 19 25 26 LUCKY 3

3

8

7

1

Afternoon Draw

6

9

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

03

05

06

12

PAY DAY

02 08 10 11 13

14 19 21 SUPER PAY DAY

02 07 11 16 17

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

$300.7B Budget presented to National Assembly …no measures for ordinary citizens …$1000 increase for pensioners ...tax exemptions for dentures, electric cars

A

t $300.7 billion, the National Budget for 2019 was presented on Monday to the National Assembly. But through it all, measures that can directly benefit the small man are noticeably absent.

The only thing that Finance Minister Winston Jordan, who spoke almost uninterrupted for five hours during his budget presentation, announced under ‘measures to increase workers’ income was the increase in the income tax threshold to $780,000 per annum ($65,000 monthly).

This is an increase per month of $5,000, as the salary threshold was previously $60,000. Accompanying this increase was a promise from the Government that it would re-engage the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) in negotiations to improve allowances.

There were also measures for the elderly. For instance, pension was increased by $1,000, from $19,500 to $20,500.

Following the $1,000 increase trend, public assistance was also increased from $8,000 to $9,000.

“Many former public servants, Members of Parliament and other categories of workers who retired prior to 1992 have approached me with a view to 90 doing something about their pensions, which were decimated as a result of repeated devaluations in the 1980s and early 1990s.”

“They have indicated that they are getting on in age and wish for the Government to bring urgent relief to them. I want to assure those persons that the matter is under active consideration,” Jordan also announced.

In addition, Jordan announced exemption from Value Added Tax (VAT) on orthopedic appliances like crutches, surgical belts, splints, hearing aids and false teeth. He also announced exemptions on boats used in rural and riverine areas designed for the transport of goods and persons not exceeding 7.08 cubic metres. The import Duty of five per cent will also be waived

Tax incentives

Jordan also announced tax incentives focused on the disabled, persons importing cars and companies.

For instance, Jordan said, changes would be made to the Income Tax Act to facilitate the write off capital expense within two years, and also waive import duties

Finance Minister Winston Jordan during the reading of the budget on Monday

and VAT on new equipment for companies using alternate energy technology.

The minister also announced measures to waive customs duty for hybrid and electric vehicles with an equivalent cylinder capacity of 2000, exemptions for change over kits and to waive excise tax on all electric motor cycles. He noted, however, that vehicles modified within two years of entering Guyana attract full duties and tax.

Jordan announced that a system of credits would be used in the Remigrant Scheme, with a ceiling of $5 million. For example, he noted, if a remigrant brought in

three vehicles with a value of $20 million, they would receive a tax-free allowance of $5 million and pay applicable taxes on the remaining $15 million. This proposal did not sit well with several Opposition parlia-

mentarians, who heckled the move.

Another measure Jordan announced was to allow returning students who have completed at least three years of continuous study eligibility for re-migrant status. In addition, he proposed removing the six months overseas ownership stipulation.

“This allows the remigrant the option of purchasing the vehicle locally within six months of his/her arrival. This would be advantageous to the remigrant who lived in a country where driving is on the right, as opposed to Guyana, where it is on the left,” Jordan said.

Jordan also proposed exempting vehicles to be used by persons with disabilities from Excise duty and VAT. He said that Government will also examine the feasibility of tax rebates on handsets that have accessibility features for disabled persons.

Turn to page 9

4

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesdAY, November 27, 2018

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

Guyana’s emphasis on early childhood development

A

ccording to findings from the recently-published ‘The Lancet’s Series, Advancing Early Childhood Development: from Science to Scale’ an estimated 43 percent—249 million—of children under five in low-and middle-income countries are at an elevated risk of poor development due to extreme poverty and stunting.

The Caribbean regional launch of the series took place immediately following the 32 Meeting of the Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD) on Education, and was hosted by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.

The Series has once again made a strong case for Governments and other stakeholders to work towards designing and implementing effective policies and programmes and allocate the necessary resources to ensure early childhood development.

According to the authors of the Series, early childhood development interventions that promote nurturing care— health, nutrition, responsive caregiving, security and safety, and early learning—may cost very little, when combined with existing services such as health.

Sylvie Fouet, Representative of UNICEF - Guyana and Suriname, was quoted by CARICOM as saying: “The science and economics are clearly on the side of investing in the first 1,000 days of a child’s life. The cost of not doing so is higher.

Children fall behind long before they set foot in school.”

There is therefore need for increased global commitment to early childhood development. The consequences of inaction impact not only present but future generations. In the region, there is less public provisioning for early childhood education, especially for the 0-2 year age group, as opposed to the preschool years. For example, it was explained that the uneven funding distribution across sectors is striking; expenditure on pre-primary as share of government expenditure on education is only 2.9% compared to primary at 34.9% and 40.3% for secondary education.

One of the authors of the Lancet Series, Rafael PérezEscamilla, Professor of Epidemiology & Public Health, Director of the Office of Public Health Practice, and Director of the Global Health Concentration at the Yale School of Public Health, presented the research findings and recommendations to Ministers of Education from several CARICOM member states, as well as Regional Education officials at the COHSOD Meeting.

The Series authors propose several ways the global community can scale-up support for early childhood development services; these include by; encouraging the adoption and implementation of policies to create supportive environments for families to provide nurturing care for young children, building capacity and strengthening coordination to promote early childhood development through existing health, nutrition, education, social, and child protection services, strengthening measurement and ensuring accountability for early childhood development services, increasing research, and fostering global and regional leadership and action and expanding political will and funding through advocacy for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Guyana must be commended for placing the issue of early childhood development high on its national development agenda. Guyana’s Early Childhood Development project, which came as a result of intense discussions between early childhood educators and other relevant officials, is aimed at improving the emergent literacy and numeracy outcomes for children at the nursery level and primary Grade one in hinterland regions.

The first component of the project caters for capacity building for nursery and Grade one teachers and is aimed at improving the quality of instruction and learning at the nursery and Grade 1 levels by strengthening teachers’ knowledge, particularly with regard to the implementation of new strategies for the development of emergent literacy and numeracy skills, through an in-service teacher training programme. The second component of the project targets improved supply of teaching and learning materials.

The issue of early childhood development must be taken seriously by all stakeholders as research has shown that a child’s brain develops faster in the first 2-3 years than at any other time in life. It was proven that these early years are also a critical period of adaptability and responsiveness to interventions.

Women’s rights activists gather to march through Taksim Square to protest against gender violence in Istanbul, Turkey (Reuters/Huseyin Aldemir)

Turkish police search villa outside Istanbul in Khashoggi investigation

T

urkish Police searched a remote villa in a coastal area southeast of Istanbul on Monday as part of the investigation into the killing last month of Saudi Journalist Jamal Khashoggi, officials said.

Authorities believe that one of the Saudi agents allegedly involved in the murder at the Kingdom’s Istanbul Consulate, Mansour Othman Abahussain, called the villa’s owner a day before the killing, the Istanbul Chief Prosecutor’s office said.

The owner of the property is a Saudi national, Mohammed Ahmed Alfaozan, who had the codename “Ghozan”, it said. Two officials told Reuters that Alfaozan had purchased the property, near Yalova on the Sea of Marmara, around three years ago.

The phone call was believed to be about the destruction or disappearance of Khashoggi’s body parts, the prosecutor’s office said.

Police used sniffer dogs to search the garden of the villa and the nearby wooded area, according to Reuters cameramen at the scene. Officials told Reuters last month that Khashoggi’s killers may have dumped his remains at a rural location near Yalova, which is a 90-kilometre (55 mile) drive southeast of Istanbul.

They had halted the search on Monday evening.

Authorities have previously carried out inspections at the Kingdom’s Consulate and the Consul General’s residence in Istanbul as part of an investigation into the killing of the Journalist – a Washington Post columnist and a prominent critic of the Saudi Government.

Khashoggi’s killing has strained Saudi Arabia’s ties with the West and battered the image overseas of its de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Saudi Arabia has said the Crown Prince had no prior knowledge of the murder. After offering numerous contradictory explanations, Riyadh later said Khashoggi had been killed and his body dismembered when negoti-

Police used sniffer dogs to search the garden of the villa and the nearby wooded area, according to Reuters cameramen at the scene

ations to persuade him to return to Saudi Arabia failed.

Turkey’s President Tayyip Erdogan has said the killing was ordered by the highest level of Saudi leadership, but probably not King Salman, putting the spotlight instead on the 33-year-old Crown Prince.

US President Donald Trump said last week Washington would remain a “steadfast partner” of Saudi Arabia despite saying that Crown Prince Mohammed may have known about the plan to murder Khashoggi.

Saudi Crown Prince arrives in Egypt on 3rd leg of Arab tour Meanwhile, the Crown Prince arrived in Egypt on Monday, the third leg of his first trip abroad since the murder.

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi greeted the heir to the throne of the world’s top oil exporter at the airport in Cairo when he arrived from Bahrain after a visit to the United Arab Emirates.

Egypt and Saudi Arabia have bolstered ties since Sisi took power in 2013 after ousting President

Mohamed Mursi of the Muslim Brotherhood, which both countries have banned and designated as a terrorist organisation.

The Crown Prince and Sisi are expected to discuss bilateral relations and enhancing them in various fields “in addition to discussing political issues of mutual interest”, Egypt’s State news agency MENA said.

The Crown Prince was accompanied by several high-ranking Saudi officials, including the Foreign, Trade and Interior Ministers and the Head of General Intelligence, the official Saudi press agency said.

Prince Mohammed is expected to travel to Tunisia after his two-day visit to Egypt before heading for a G20 meeting in Buenos Aires at the end of the month which will be attended by leaders from the United States, Turkey and European countries.

Dozens of Tunisian rights activists and Journalists staged a small protest in the capital Tunis on Monday against Crown Prince Mohammed’s planned visit over the Khashoggi killing. (Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesdAY, November 27, 2018

5

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

An analysis of Local Government Elections (LGE) results 2018 Dear Editor, The "official results" of the 2018 Local Government Elections (LGE) are out and I shall attempt an indepth analysis of those results. The results show the PPP/C garnering 122,307 votes, the PNC 68,060 votes, the AFC 8,719 votes while the other small parties 2,995 votes. Translated into percentages, this means that the PNC/APNU got 34 per cent while the got AFC 4 per cent and the PPP/C got a whopping 61 per cent of the total votes cast.

The PNC and its coalition partners together gained a grand total of 79,774 votes, while the PPP/C gained 122,307. This means that the PPP/C, as a single entity, has beaten the Coalition combined, and this is cause for worry in the Coalition's camp. The people of this great country have spoken without a shadow of a doubt that they do not want the Coalition Government to govern them.

They have realised that they were brutally shortchanged in that "change" for the "good life” rhetoric presented to them by the present administration and as such would like to return to the beaten path of the PPP/C where there is peace and progress. For this very same reason, The Opposition Leader has filed a no-confidence motion against the Government.

Now, the Prime Minister and his compatriots in the Coalition are making light work of the Opposition Leader's motion to the House, calling it among other things, a joke, and that the no-confidence motion would not be considered for debate until after the budget proceedings. He further stated that the no-confidence motion will be defeated.

Nagamootoo's reasoning comes from two opinions, the first is that the proposed pay rise in the budget may in some way placate the struggling workers to reconsider and turn their votes on their behalf come general elections 2020. He reasons that the pay rise might just do the trick. He is also of the belief that seeing it was only 38% of the electorate who voted this Local Government Elections (LGE), then the remaining 62% may very well be theirs so there is no need to worry.

Well, I think the prime minister is in for a shocker with that misplaced assumption of his, because with such great resentment pervading the nation, I do not think anything would change the minds of the workers. I take my cue from a discussion I had recently with a PNC friend of mind. He said that he and family are strong supporters of the party because they are a party for AfroGuyanese, and he votes for his race, however, all that

changed last LGE when he did not vote because of the silly things.

As a prime example, he quotes the general strike by the solid waste collectors in Georgetown. He says "look at what these people doing in Georgetown, their main stronghold" “they are allowing the city to go back into the dumpster it was under the PPP/C.” He reasons that they lied and said it was the PPP/C's fault, but the recent CoI into City Hall showed that it was due

to rampant corruption done

by The Mayor and the PNC/ APNU Councillors. He further states that the PNC "still got them there". The so-called King and Queen!

What they think Black People stupid?! This "past eye" what these people think they are doing. He said that he didn't vote in the Local Government Election (LGE) but will certainly do so on the side of the PPP/C come 2020, that's for sure, stating that he has no choice but to vote against his party.

The sentiments raised above is not an isolated case, rather, it is symptomatic of the strong views persons have of the PN-led Coalition. So, these comments are indeed worrying for the Coalition who are trying nervously hard to dismiss that no-confidence motion.

Further to our discussion, is the fact that the elections to be held in 2020 is purely based on Proportional Representation (PR) which drives a sure nail in their

coffin. With an already established trend of 61 per cent PR at the 2018 LGE Level, this means that the PPP/C is out front in an unassailable win in any general elections that would be called here. Finally, from whichever vantage point you view the present scenario, the coalition will see defeat. The question now, is how soon will that fact become a reality?

Respectfully submitted, Neil Adams

The ‘good life’ is a figment of imagination Dear Editor, The Auditor General’s 2017 Report continues to demonstrate that the Coalition Government is not ‘fit and proper’ to govern this country and the ‘good life’ is a figment of the Finance Minister’s imagination.

In every department of Government, the gross mismanagement and the blatant and downright thievery of public funds have gone entirely out of control. The tentacles of corruption have completely engulfed this nation and there is now an urgency like never before to be freed from this strangulation.

The Audit Report is replete with examples of these.

One would expect that the Guyana Defense Force (GDF) and the Ministry of Public Security would exhibit a high level of accountability, but unfortunately this was not the case.

In 2017, the budgetary allocation for the procurement of goods and services for the Guyana Defense Force (GDF) was revised to $4.366 billion with a total of $4.361 being expended. However, the Audit Report flagged many instances where assets bought could not be located, for instance, an Ultra Sound Cleaner machine purchased for $608,000 could not have been located for physical verification at the time of the audit. Then in the current expenditure, there are some insanely high figures which are hardly believable.

For instance, $569.949 million was expended on fuel and lubricants for Senior Officers and it was seen that one motor car actually consumed $3.07 million in fuel, amounting to $256,242 per month! In addition, the Stores Regulations were se-

verely breached, while a huge quantity of assets cannot be given physical forms and numerous expense vouchers cannot be traced.

What is also alarming, is the fact that many contractors were actually given the capital investment financing to provide the items contracted and yet failed to make timely delivery of the items. For instance, the sum of $64.734 million was awarded by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) to a supplier for 3 Stallion 4x4 Truck Troop Carrier. The agreement was signed on 27th October, 2017, and the supplier was immediately paid $45.314 million. This is 70 per cent of the contract cost! Therefore, it is seen that this is a clear case of financing. But lo and behold! The delivery which was supposed to be in 3 months, was yet to be done 10 months after!

The Ministry of Public Security is a mirror image of what took place in

the Guyana Defense Force (GDF). For instance, there was an overpayment of staff who severed employment, of which $1,123 million is still to be recovered along with deductions of $889,691. Another case of financing the supplier is the procurement of drugs and medical supplies for the Guyana Forensic Services Laboratory. Another case is the award of a contract to purchase one multi-purpose Fire Rescue boat. This was sole-sourced for $307.457 million and the contractor was paid $131.354 million or 43 per cent of the contract price. After 10 months, this capital item is still to be delivered. Also, the sum of $16.947 million was awarded and fully paid to the supplier, but materials valued $10,818 million is still to be received. Then there is overpayment for maintenance work, overpayment for capital works, breaches of the Stores Regulations and missing log books for vehicles.

The above scenarios reflect what is happening in all the Government departments at the Regional and Central Government levels. The tsunami of corruption has inundated and paralysed the economy.

Therefore, we as Guyanese need to question ourselves: Whither are we going as a Nation? The Budget gets bigger each year, but what is trickled down to the average person continues to be less with each passing year. Will it be too much to ask that this government give back the cash grants to students?

Or the subsidies to the pensioners? Or a living wage increase to all Guyanese including the sugar workers?

Or to reduce the numerous taxes? Or the removal of VAT on water and electricity? Or an increase in the old age pension and the public assistance? Or to create investments and job opportunities for our young people?

I do not think so! Everyone needs to have a taste of the ‘good life’!

Monies to ease the sufferings of the masses can be found if proper budgetary allocation and control is done and there is proper accountability and financial management. It is evident that if the corruption is reduced, then more monies can be made available. The excesses can be trimmed to give a taste of the ‘good life’ to the downtrodden of our society. The Auditor General’s Report has unearthed so many areas where value for money is lost, hence the solution is not bigger budgetary allocations to these Government entities. In fact, these can be cut to facilitate fiscal space and spending in vitally important areas.

I am sure the ‘good life’ has not even begun for the masses so the theme of this year’s budget is now a platitude!

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf RDC Councillor Region 6

6

tuesdAY, november 27, 2018

Page

H

ow did you learn how to ride your bike?

Someone probably gave you a few lessons and then you practised a lot. You can learn how to study in much the same way. No one is born knowing how to study. You need to learn a few study skills and then practise them.

Why work on your study skills? It will make it easier for you to learn and do well in class, especially as you move up to high school.

Here are six steps to smarter studying: Pay attention in class Take good notes Plan ahead for tests and projects Break it down (If you have a bunch of stuff to learn, break it into smaller chunks) Ask for help if you get stuck Get a good night’s sleep!

Pay attention: good studying starts in class

Here’s a riddle for you: Did you know that before you even begin studying, you’ve already started?

Huh? Here’s what we mean.

When you pay attention in class and take good notes, you are starting the process of learning and studying.

Do you have trouble paying attention in class? Are you sitting next to a loud person? Is it hard to see the board? Make sure you’re sit-

Foundation

ting in a good seat that lets you pay attention. Tell your teacher or parents about any problems that are preventing you from paying attention and taking good notes.

Good Notes = Easier Studying

Not sure how to take notes? Start by writing down facts that your teacher mentions or writes on the board during class. Try your best to use good handwriting so you can read your notes later. It’s also a good idea to keep your notes, quizzes, and papers organised by subject.

Plan ahead and you’ll be glad you did

Waiting until Thursday night to study for Friday’s test will make for a homework night that’s no fun!

It also makes it hard to do your best. We’re all guilty of putting things off sometimes. One of the best ways to make sure that doesn’t happen is to plan ahead.

Ask for a cool calendar (something you like and can keep by your desk or study area) and write down your test and assignment due dates. You can then plan how much to do after school each day, and how much time to spend on each topic. Are lessons or extracurricular activities making it hard to find time to study?

Ask your mom or dad how

to make a schedule of what to do when.

Break it up!

When there’s a lot to study, it can help to break things into chunks. Let’s say you have a test on 20 spelling words. Instead of thinking about all of the words at once, try breaking them down into five-word chunks and working on one or two different chunks each night.

Don’t worry if you can’t remember something on the first try. That’s where practice comes in. The more days you spend reviewing something, the more likely it is to stick in your brain.

There are also tricks called mnemonic (say: new-MONik) devices that can help you remember stuff. When you’re trying to memorise a list of things, make up a phrase that uses the first letter of each. For example, are you trying to learn the eight planets and their order from the sun? Think: My Very Excellent Mother Just Served Us Nachos to remember Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Your teacher can give you ideas, too.

Another way to break it up is to study regularly instead of just the night before. You can always review your notes and read over the chapters you’re working on.

Or, if you’re studying Math

or science, do some practice problems.

How much studying should you do each night?

Your teacher can help you figure it out. Most brains can only pay attention for about 45 minutes. So if you’ve been working for a while and find it hard to pay attention, try taking a break for some water or a walk around the house. Just fight the temptation to turn on the TV or stop working!

Lose the confusion — ask for help

You can’t study effectively if you don’t understand the material. Be sure to ask your teacher for help if you’re confused about something. You can check yourself by reading through your notes. Does it all make sense? If not, ask your teacher to go over it with you. If you’re at home when the confusion occurs, your mom or dad might be able to help.

Sleep tight!

So the test is tomorrow and you’ve followed your study plan – but suddenly you can’t remember anything, not even 2+2! Don’t panic. Your brain needs time to digest all the information you’ve given it. Try to get a good night’s sleep and you’ll be surprised by what comes back to you in the morning. (kidshealth.org)

By Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD

F

or parents, it can be exasperating when children do things they know they’re not supposed to do. It’s tempting to lecture them. We want to share our wisdom. We hope our children will have an “Aha!” moment, see the error of their ways, and never make that mistake again. Maybe if we explain it long enough and thoroughly enough, our point will sink in!

What’s wrong with lecturing?

The problem is that lectures don’t work.

Educational researchers have known for years that students learn better from active engagement with a topic than from lectures. Similarly, research on parenting shows that lecturing, nagging, scolding, and talking at children or teens don’t inspire cooperation. It never feels good to hear – especially at length – how displeased someone is with us and the many ways we fall short of expectations. When lectures are long and frequent, kids are likely to respond by feeling defensive or resentful, and they just stop listening.

Lectures leave kids stuck feeling “bad”. As parents, we need to be on the side of helping our children grow and learn.

What to do instead of lecturing your child

By asking good questions, we can help them think through difficult situations, so they can move forward in positive ways. Avoid accusatory questions along the lines of “Why did you do that?” “What were you thinking?” or “What’s wrong with you?”

Children don’t have good answers to these.

Instead of asking backward-looking questions that rehash past sins, focus on forward-looking questions that encourage good choices now or next time.

Here are ten possibilities: What is your job right now?

What do you need to do to be ready for ____?

What’s your plan for getting that done?

How will you remember to ___?

What can you do to help her feel better?

How can you make amends (or show him you’re sorry)?

What can we do to prevent this from happening again?

What would you like to do differently next time?

What is the kind thing to do now (or from now on)?

How can I help?

Don’t go through the whole list; that would feel like an overwhelming interrogation. The point is that by asking, rather than lecturing, we help children think. We also show our faith in our children’s ability to move forward in a good direction. We won’t always be around to tell our children what to do, but through gentle questions, we can help guide them so they learn to think things through on their own. (psychologytoday.com)

news

7

tuesdAY, November 27, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Budget 2019 “visionless and disappointing”, lacks investment measures – Jagdeo …“we can’t support this Budget, not in current form”

G

overnment came in for harsh criticism from Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo over what he described as the “visionless and disappointing” National Budget presented in the National Assembly on Monday.

Jagdeo said that the $300.7 billion budget presented by Finance Minister Winston Jordan was one that was filled with repetition and disappointment, adding that they could not support such a budget in its current state. He said that the Finance Minister’s presentation was one that was incoherent and seemed as though it was written by different persons and then hastily combined for presentation on Monday. According to the Opposition Leader, the Budget fell far short of fulfilling objectives that are important to enhancing the welfare, well-being and future of the Guyanese people.

“We had the Minister of Finance going on several times talking about the same Green State Development Strategy and coming back repeatedly to promises of the future in oil and gas; almost exact meaning, the essence of what he spoke together. His presentation was incoherent, disappointing, replete with repetition…replete with repetition and contradictions, incoherent and loaded with platitudes, including comments about possible undertakings that would not be realised within the next fiscal year,” Jagdeo said.

The Opposition Leader, who recently tabled a motion of no-confidence against the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Administration, said with that looming over their heads he thought that the Government would have given ear to the issues identified

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo speaking with the media on Monday evening. Also in photo are PPP Members of Parliament Irfaan Ali, Juan Edghill and the party’s Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira

and tried to alleviate them.

“This was not a budget, it was sterile and full of platitudes hoping that they can deceive the people of this country by talking for a very long period and repeating words…the timeline for the implementation of this budget goes way into the next five years from now and some of them may never happen. Take for example the road, we have heard a lot of nonsense again about this road from Linden to Lethem, but most of it is filled with studies,” he identified.

Jagdeo, a former Finance Minister himself, said that Minister Jordan used his budget presentation to confirm that the economy performed badly in 2018, identifying the – 1.8 per cent growth in the fisheries industry, 0.2 per cent growth in rice, 0.9 per cent in forestry and – 2.3 per cent in the extractive industry.

“You would have noticed that the Minister at midyear had revised the target upwards to 3.7 per cent after they achieved 3.4 per cent in mid-year. The final outcome was 3.4 per cent and we are not sure that will be, given the history that this Minister how often he has misled the House when he presents the figures in November in his budget and then in January

when the figures drastically change for the worse,” Jagdeo sought to remind.

“He (Jordan) confirmed the economy performed badly. The Minister confirmed, and it was a shocking departure from the picture he painted last year when he presented his budget for 2018. He said that we are going to see a surplus on the balance of payment (BOP) and what happened was that we had a deterioration in the overall deficit of the BoP from $69 million projected last year to $187 million now. The current account from – $297 million, it’s now – $463 million and that is the outcome under current account of the balance of payment,” he added.

Increase in tax collection

The former President also predicted that the exchange rate would be under immense pressure. He explained that the net domestic credit to mining and manufacturing practically collapsed which ultimately means that people in those sectors are not borrowing.

This, he attributed, to the high taxation.

“The biggest story is how tone deaf this Government is. We heard the Government read out a series of measures at the end of his (Jordan)

speech and he said these are the measures that will improve welfare. I doubt it.

These are the measures that will enhance growth,” he said.

The Opposition Leader said the most worrisome thing about Budget 2019 was the projected increase in tax collection, which would be a further burden imposed

on the people.

“Budget 2019 proposes a $31 billion increase in tax collection per annum, compared to 2018.

This will represent an $88 billion increase in tax collection per annum, based on the 2014 levels. This increase in tax collection comes, even as, there have been no moves to cut down on extravagant

and wasteful spending on things that do not bring benefit to our people. All considered, it is unclear who this massive Budget is helping.

Is it helping our miners? Is it helping our farmers? Is it helping our pensioners?

Is it helping our public service employees? Is it helping our productive sectors? Is it helping those in the retail trade? The answer in each of these cases, and in others, is no,” he noted.

Jagdeo said that Guyana’s national debt continued to climb because of the squandering of the Government. When asked to provide two good points from Budget 2019, the Opposition Leader said that he was baffled as to what to say and eventually commended Minister Jordan’s attire and speculated that he may be a “closeted hater” of the Government hoping to pass this budget.

8 news

tuesdAY, November 27, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Gunman in $8.9M casino heist jailed A s a lengthy trial concluded at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, Magistrate Judy Latchman on Monday found a Bagotville, West Bank Demerara (WBD) resident guilty of the $8.9 million heist at the Ramada Princess Casino.

Wayne Griffith was charged, along with Andre Blackman and Junior Stewart, for the April 29, 2016 robbery. On Monday, while Griffith was found guilty, Blackman was freed after he was found not culpable for the offence. Stewart was recently freed after it was found that

there was no evidence against him.

The charge stated that on April 29, 2016 at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) while being in the company of others, and armed with guns, Griffith robbed Daniel Roberts and Alfea Gajadhar of $8.9 million, property of Ramada Princess Casino.

According to reports, in the wee morning of April 29, 2016, four gunmen stormed the Princess Casino about 03:45h and discharged several rounds as they relieved patrons and staff of cash and other valuables. They held a

Jailed: Wayne Griffith

security guard on duty at gunpoint and took away his shot-

gun and several rounds of ammunition.

The men ordered everyone to lie on the ground and relieved the cashier of the $8.9 million. After hearing that he was found guilty of the charge, Griffith refused to answer further questions from Magistrate Latchman. He told her: “I have nothing more to say in this court, hurry up and give me a sentence; let me go downstairs.”

Magistrate Latchman after considering the fact that persons were injured during the robbery, jailed him for five years.

Kwakwani businessman charged for ganja trafficking

A

Charged: Ancel John

Kwakwani, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraUpper Berbice) businessman was on Monday hauled before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to a charge of narcotics trafficking after he was allegedly busted with a quantity of ganja.

Ancel John, a shop own-

er, denied that on November 22, 2018 at Kwakwani Water Front, Upper Berbice River, he had 110 grams of cannabis in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.

In court on Monday, the 33-year-old man claimed that he was beaten by Police and articles from his store were stolen during his arrest.

Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield made

no objections to bail being granted, but asked that conditions be attached.

The Chief Magistrate released John on $50,000 bail.

As a condition for bail, he is required to report to the Kwakwani Police Station every Friday until completion of his trial. The case will continue on December 22, 2018 at the Kwakwani Magistrate’s Court.

Mamaguy….

T

…Budget

hese PNC types are so transparent…but then, when something’s in your genes, it HAS to be expressed!

Genotypes and phenotypes and all that!! Take the Budget Winston Jordan just read out in Parliament over a stupefying five hours!! Your Eyewitness doesn’t have to say he “told you so” on the PNC’s priorities: every Tom, Dick and Harilall predicted they’d be spelling out it’s a “bigger and better” Budget, stacked with handouts for its supporters!!

But, as all Guyanese should know by now, bigger isn’t necessarily better – it’s how you use what you have to do the job. And with Budgets, the job is to spend the hard-earned taxpayers’ money to encourage high-paying job creation. It’s not surprising people prefer jobs over handouts. They know that, in this world, nothing’s really free…and with those PNC handouts, they’ll be expected to stifle their consciences and vote them back in 2020!!

On the other hand, when you have a job, you’re your own man or woman; you call your own shots. But that’s precisely what the PNC doesn’t want…they’d rather have a ring through your nose!! Look at how they fired those 7000 sugar workers! But even with the jobs they control in the Government service, they’ll be doling out salary increases in dribs and drabs – for one reason and one reason only: control!!

The pattern should’ve been clear in the PNC handling of the teachers’ demand for a “living wage”. It was not a “negotiation”, but a declaration that it’s either the PNC’s way or the highway! You can go through the Budget with a fine-tooth comb and you’ll be hard pressed to find an initiative that leads to job creation in the private sector.

The most pressing need of the latter is to get a cheap and reliable supply of electricity. If that’s provided, businesses will be encouraged to expand – and of course expand employment – because their cost of production will now be competitive with those foreign products we now import. With US$80 million of its own in the game, Norway told this Government the Amaila Falls Hydro is the best way forward with generating “green” energy for our industrialisation. But rather than AFHEP, we see these dinky little solar projects that can’t offer us 24/7 TV!! Control!!

As your Eyewitness has been stressing, a Budget, while detailing Govt spending for the next year, has to be part of an overall strategy to develop the country -by creating jobs. Forget all the hoopla about “Green Development Strategy” – where are the green jobs? If they were serious about developing people, wouldn’t they’ve diversified Wales into green co-ops so the small man could become the real man?

But it’s all a big mamaguy!!

…and reparations

With Britain finally getting the terms of its divorce from the EU, all the signs are we’ll be left out to swing (slowly) in the wind! By both the EU and Britain. Your Eyewitness was idly wondering whether their closer ties with Africa was because they’re not demanding reparations when he was seized by the headline “Glasgow University to make reparations valued at £200m extracted from Caribbean”!!

It seems the indefatigable Sir Hilary Beckles had worked out this deal while everyone was napping!! When the frisson of excitement had subsided, your Eyewitness then worried how the money was going to be shared out between all the territories of Caricom. Were we all going to get a lump sum payout like Professor Thomas had suggested for our oil money? Another delicious shiver of excitement!

But then he noticed the fine print in the article: the ‘reparations” were to be in “cash and kind”. More specifically, “research in chronic diseases in the Caribbean, including hypertension, diabetes, and childhood obesity”.

Meaning most of the money will go to Glasgow’s personnel!!

…on President’s health

Your Eyewitness had already complained about the President’s PR handlers putting too much pressure on him by announcing he’s “fully back on the job”.

They’ve thankfully backtracked and admitted he’s cut back his public engagements.

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

News

9

tuesdAY, November 27, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Budget 2019

Private Sector disappointed over non-reduction of excise tax on fuel …calls for mechanisms to facilitate green growth

E

xecutive Director of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Richard Rambarran, has said that although the private sector is happy to see some money coming back in the hands of the consumers, it is extremely disappointed that the Government has made no move to remove or reduce the excise tax on fuel.

He made this pronouncement following Finance Minister Winston Jordan’s presentation of the 2019 National Budget in the National Assembly on Monday.

“I am very happy money has been placed back in the hands of the consumers and private sector; however, what is very worrying is that the

GCCI Executive Director, Richard Rambarran

excise tax on fuel and the nature and cost structure of the fuel remain the same, which is something the private sector certainly could have done with a reduction in,” he said.

He explained that in 2018 fuel has had a rehabilitating

effect on the private sector because of its multipurpose. He noted that it is not only used in manufacturing, but in every other aspect of business.

“It is used in distribution, it is used in just about every single aspect of the produc-

$300.7B budget presented...

“This will allow Guyanese who are visually and hearing impaired to afford a smartphone. In order to avoid abuse, the exemptions would be granted after the Commission representing Persons with Disabilities certifies that the person, the vehicle and the handset are eligible for the concessions.

These two initiatives solidify Government’s commitment to equity and inclusion for all its citizens through the use of (Information and Communication Technology),” Jordan said.

Private sector

The minister proposed that changes be made to the Income Tax Act to ensure that tax on gold mining activities be assessed based on a sliding scale. This, he noted, would be the final tax on income from such activities.

Small businesses will also benefit from a reduction of income and corporate tax rates to 25 per cent on taxable profits. To benefit, however, these businesses have to

be registered with the Small Business Bureau. Jordan also announced a reduction of the manufacturing rate to 25 per cent, from the previous 27.5 per cent rate.

Also to be adjusted is the property tax threshold to $40 million for individuals and companies. In addition, persons who sell their house and reinvest the proceeds in another home of equal or greater value will be exempted from Capital Gains tax. This must be done during the year of assessment, or within 60 days of the year the property is sold.

“In addition, Mr Speaker, in recognition of inflation through the years, I propose to increase the threshold for Capital Gains Tax arising from disposal of property from $1,000 to $500,000. The revenue loss is expected to exceed $102 million.”

But it was Jordan’s announcement that 2019 would herald a new age wherein there are no more shortages of drugs that touched off a crescendo of heckling

tion and distribution line; and as such, there should be something, or there should have been something, which addresses fuel costs,” he noted.

Rambarran further related that the Government needs to be more serious about the development of a green economy, and not just talk about developing a green economy. He identified the lack of advancement in this area despite the Government repeatedly talking about the Green State Development.

“If we are going to talk about green economy and renewable energy and all of that thing, we (the private sector) have been saying for some time that the private sector is very advanced in this regard. And the private

From page 3

from the parliamentary Opposition, who have long criticized Government for persistent drug shortages at public institutions.

The budget made little mention of monies that would be allocated for institution-

al capacity-building in the oil sector. This is even as first oil is little over a year away.

Jordan did note, however, that the Cost Oil Audit Unit would be set up in the large taxpayers unit.

sector has been saying that we need to have mechanisms in place where we can do grid tie and getting rebates etc for when you put in place your solar power and renewable energy, for us to be able to get something where we channel energy back to the grid. We see once again another year has passed and nothing along this line,” Rambarran pointed out.

He noted that the current budget presented need to be taken within the current context of Guyana since, according to the 2018 numbers, there has been minimal growth in a number of sectors and sub-sectors, as well as contraction in a few as well.

However, he said that they are pleased with the measures identified, which would ultimately put money back into the hands of the consumers as well as the private sector.

On the issue of tax reduction, he explained that the private sector are somewhat pleased with some of the reduction identified, but reminded that they are not across-the-board.

“The Chamber of Commerce specifically is very happy that we have

gotten some of our requests granted to us from our budget document. We would have met with the Minister of Finance during consultation period and he provided us with the opportunity to air our views. Specifically, we are looking at things like pesticides, limestone, toxic chemicals, and even the aviation industry. We were looking at fuel, but those which were granted were aviation industry pesticides limestone, and those were some we bargained for. We have an entire list we submitted for other things, and we see those coming out in other sectors indirectly for example infrastructure regarding farm to market road etc,” the GCCI Executive said.

Guyana’s private sector bodies have been calling on Government to cushion the effect of the excise tax on fuel prices, which affects every aspect of their businesses. Leading that call was the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) who, during its budget consultation meeting with Minister Jordan, also called for better roads and incentives for the renewable energy.

10 news

tuesdAY, November 27, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyana’s balance of payment deficit widens …as critical sectors contract …3.4% economic growth expected for 2018 – Finance Minister

G

overnment is projecting a 3.4 per cent economic growth rate, but noted that there will be downturns in critical sectors and a widened balance of payment deficit for 2018.

On Monday, Finance Minister Winston Jordan

said the 2018 projected growth rate is a significant improvement from the dismal 2.1 per cent growth rate recorded in 2017.

“I wish to report that the latest projection for real growth in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for

crease on account of higher declarations. In addition, total import payments are expected to grow marginally, by 0.8 per cent.

“Mr. Speaker, as a result of the surplus, in 2019, the accumulation of gross foreign reserves at the Bank of Guyana will be equivalent to 3.0 months of imports.”

2018 is 3.4 per cent, a significant improvement on the 2.1 per cent recorded in 2017,” he declared.

The minister explained that the initial target was 3.8 per cent, but that was revised to 3.4 per cent, given the performance in gold and

Total revenue

Finance Minister Winston Jordan

sugar. It was readjusted to 3.7 per cent in 2018.

He said that despite the severe contraction of 25.2 per cent in sugar production, the agriculture, fishing and forestry sector is projected to grow by 1.1 percent in 2018.

Solid performances are expected to be recorded also for livestock, other crops, forestry and rice.

As it relates to the extractive industry, Jordan said, the mining and quarrying sector is projected to contract by 2.3 per cent in 2018, despite remarkable growth expectations for the bauxite.

“The expected expansion in the mining sector is anticipated to be curtailed in 2018 by a decline in gold declarations by small and medium scale miners,” he added.

As for the manufacturing sector, growth of 0.9 percent is expected in 2018, driven by a 5.2 percent increase in manufacturing activities outside of rice and sugar.

Balance of payment

According to the Finance Minister, the balance of pay-

ment deficit is expected to increase to US$180.7 million.

The Current Account is expected to worsen due to the merchandise account. There are increased merchandise imports and decreased merchandise exports.

He blamed the downturn in gold, sugar and rice exports for this. However, Jordan said the deficit will be financed by measures, including drawdowns on Guyana’s foreign reserves and debt forgiveness.

Inflation rate is expected to increase by 2 per cent by the end of 2018.

“The higher projected surplus on the Capital Account is likely to result from higher net inflows to the private sector in the form of foreign direct investment,” he explained.

The improvement on the Current Account will be supported by a lower merchandise trade deficit of US$256.4 million, as total export earnings are projected to increase.

In other words, receipts from gold are projected to in-

Meanwhile, total revenue is anticipated to increase by 9.9 per cent to reach $238.3 billion in 2019. This increase is anticipated mainly from tax revenue of $223.6 billion, Jordan said.

According to him, nontax revenue is expected to reduce by 15.2 per cent to $14.7 billion as a result of a decline in transfers from statutory bodies by $4 billion.

“Central Government expenditure is expected to grow by 11.5 per cent to $291 billion. Recurrent expenditure is anticipated to increase to $221.8 billion, 9.8 percent higher than one year ago.”

This, he said, will be driven by a 19 per cent increase in personal emoluments to $70.2 billion; a 13.8 per cent increase in other goods and services’ payments to $59.8 billion.

“Transfer payments by 1.5 per cent to $83.1 billion, and a 5.6 per cent increase in external interest payments to $7.6 billion. Capital expenditure is budgeted to rise to $69.3 billion.”

Government’s overall deficit, according to the Minister, is projected to be five per cent of GDP in 2019, below the budgeted 5.4 per cent of GDP for 2018.

news

11

tuesdAY, November 27, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Budget 2019

$100M for “expertise” for Demerara River crossing tenders …as Govt to seek more loans from India as bypass road costs spike by US$70M …$38.5 billion set aside for public infrastructure

By Jarryl Bryan

G

overnment has allocated $38.5 billion of the 2019 Budget for infrastructural projects.

This includes, among other things, money for six kilometres of paved roads in Linden, extension of the highway from Hope Canal to Mahaica and a feasibility study for a Linden to Mabura road link.

This was announced by Finance Minister Winston Jordan, during the presentation of a $300.7 billion 2019 Budget. When it comes to the Public Infrastructure Ministry, Jordan said the monies allocated for all capital projects constitute 71.9 per cent of the total budget for the Ministry. The allocation has also increased from the $32 billion the Ministry received last year.

According to Jordan, the East Coast-East Bank Demerara road linkage project (Ogle bypass) has jumped from a cost of US$50 million to US$120 million.

He noted that Government would approach its bilateral partner, the Export-Import Bank of India, for more funds.

This ECD-EBD bypass project is expected to be 26 kilometres of road linking two of the country’s main thoroughfares. This new road link will also be connected to key communities in Georgetown and along the East Bank of Demerara. Those include Diamond, Mocha, Eccles – all on the East Bank – and Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt in Georgetown.

The project has, howev-

er, ran into some trouble with swamps between Ogle and Diamond. With a budgeted allocation of $45 million to start preparatory works, Jordan said the area would be drained and works done to facilitate the main construction.

New Demerara River crossing

When Government annulled the tender for proposals for the new Demerara River crossing, it attracted criticism separate from persons who also slammed the Government for sole sourcing a $146 million feasibility study for the crossing.

Jordan revealed that help has been sought from the Caribbean Development Bank to revise the Expressions of Interest in order to retender the project by this year end. But the evaluation of the bid proposals, a job normally handled by the ministry’s technical staff, will be outsourced at a cost of $100 million of taxpayers’ money.

“At the same time, we are working with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to secure the services of technical experts to support our evaluation of the proposals that are expected to be opened towards the end of March 2019, and to facilitate the next steps in the P3 [PublicPrivate Partnership] process. To this end, the sum of $100 million has been budgeted, in 2019, to finance the services of these technical experts.”

Interior linkage

Jordan explained that

An artistic rendering of the three-lane Demerara bridge

the road from Linden to Mabura in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice), will be 125 kilometres long. Beside the road, the Minister explained that the feasibility study could encompass the bridge across the Kurupukari River. All this, according to Jordan, will be done with the support of key development partners.

He touched on the Linden to Lethem road link, which he insisted would be a main hub of hinterland connectivity. He noted that it was still in pre-construction stage, while the Brazilian Government is still being engaged on developing the road from Mabura to Lethem.

Government has also allocated $134 million to execute studies and designs to rehabilitate the 72km Linden-Soesdyke Highway.

He noted the potential for more development of the lands on both sides of the Highway for housing, commercial and industrial development. This, he said, also has implications for industrial applications for Guyana’s high-grade silica sands.

“To complete our inte-

grated road connectivity, we have already commenced discussions with interested development partners to secure funding to extend the road to Soesdyke/Timehri, to form a continuous link from Georgetown to Lethem and, via the Takutu Bridge, to the Trans-Continental Highway connecting South, Central and North America.”

“It is this careful and

detailed planning that will ensure that the provision of enhanced infrastructure meet the needs of our people and the country. When completed, this by-pass road will open over 15,000 hectares of housing, industrial and commercial lands, and provide much relief to the horrendous traffic bottlenecks on the East Bank Highway.”

Four-lane road expansion

Jordan explained that works would continue on the East Coast of Demerara, on the four-lane road expansion project from Better Hope to Annandale. He also noted the upgrade would continue from Buxton to Belfield, with further extensions planned for the East Coast Highway from Belfield to Hope Canal

Bridge.

“Meanwhile, the Islamic Development Bank is considering our proposal to upgrade and widen the remainder of the East Coast Highway from Hope Canal Bridge to Mahaica. In parallel, reconstruction works will commence to upgrade the Railway Embankment road from Enmore to Hope Canal Bridge.”

According to Jordan, this will create “a second access road – parallel to the East Coast Highway – from the Hope Canal Bridge to Sheriff Street. The Government anticipates that, in the coming years, this improvement of the road network will continue to Rosignol.”

Jordan stressed that urban, suburban and rural communities have not been forgotten.

12

news

tuesDAY, november 27, 2018 | gu

Sunken North West vessel

Businesswoman estimates millions in losses

B

usinesswoman Nanda Basdeo, whose cargo went underwater after the vessel – MV Shivita 2 -- transporting her items sunk while en route to Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini) has estimated her losses to be in the millions.

This was related to Guyana Times on Monday by the distraught woman, who was still calculating the value of the items which were lost.

Speaking with this publication, Basdeo said, “I can’t give a direct amount about the cost ‘cause I know it’s millions of dollars’ worth in goods gone down the drain. Me and them Coast Guards went back to the site, but still we couldn’t save nothing. Right now, is so hard to deal with.”

On Sunday, about 05:00h, the vessel was transporting the cargo from Georgetown.

It was reported that the boat left a Georgetown wharf to trans-

The sunken boat in the Waini River, Region One

port cargo first to Mabaruma and then Port Kaituma, Region One. However, about half an hour before arriving at Mabaruma, the vessel capsized after a strong gush of wind pushed it off course onto a mudflat.

This incident occurred as the vessel was entering the Waini River channel. At the time, there were four crewmembers on board, including the captain, all of whom survived the mishap.

Sources said that as the boat

drifted, crew members were able to send out an alert on the radio set to the Guyana Defence Force’s Coast Guard, who responded to the distress call and was able to rescue the men as the boat sank.

By that time, boat operators from nearby communities who also picked up the distress call arrived on scene to lend assistance.

However, nothing could have been done to save the vessel or the cargo.

trial in the High Court.

The indictable charge against Williams detailed that on October 7, 2015, while in the vicinity of Plum Park, Sophia, Greater Georgetown, he raped the 14-year-old schoolgirl.

The conductor is currently on $300,000 bail.

Guyana Times previously reported that on October 7, 2015, the accused carried the teen to a house in Plum Park, and committed the act. The teen subsequently related to her parents what transpired, and a report was made to the Police.

Bus conductor to face Judge, jury for rape charge

T

he Route 40 minibus conductor, Ashel Williams, who is accused of engaging in sexual penetration with a 14-year-old schoolgirl appeared on Monday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Judy Latchman, and was committed to stand

Guyanese benefit from advanced community mediation training

T

Beneficiaries of the Advanced Community Mediation workshop that was recently concluded in Jamaica

wenty-four persons from seven Caribbean countries, including Guyana, benefited from an advanced community mediation workshop, part of a Canadianfunded project aimed at Improved Access to Justice in the Caribbean (IMPACT Justice).

The three-day workshop was held at the Regional Headquarters of the University of the West Indies Mona Campus, Jamaica last week, under its Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) component.

The participants comprised persons who had been trained

by IMPACT Justice in basic community mediation and had demonstrated an aptitude and interest in being trained at the

more advanced level.

The participants were from Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and St Kitts and Nevis, and included academics, Attorneys-at-Law, clergymen, Police Officers, probation officers and social workers.

Topics covered during the three-day workshop included gender and diversity issues, techniques in the settlement of family and property disputes, fees and pro bono services and the establishment of community mediation committees and service points. Participants engaged in role playing with fact patterns mirroring many of the issues they would face in practice.

Since 2015, IMPACT Justice has trained 599 persons (370 females and 229 males) from across 10 Caricom Member States in basic mediation, and has already assisted with the establishment of interim Mediation Committees in Dominica and Grenada. As the project moves forward, it is hoped that those trained will be pivotal in the establishment of community mediation service points and networks in their respective countries.

The Project’s Model Caricom Community Mediation Bill provides a template for Caricom countries seeking to develop community mediation frameworks in order to improve their citizens’ access to justice and reduce court backlogs.

news

er 27, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

13

Robbery thwarted

Police intercept car with guns, ammo, false number plates …3 would-be bandits nabbed

P

olice in ‘A Division’ on Monday thwarted a possible robbery when, acting on information received, they intercepted a car bearing a hire car number plate on Princess and High Streets, Georgetown.

Ranks searched the car and unearthed therein two unlicensed pistols, nineteen live rounds and a pair of “paste-on “number plates.

Three males, inclusive of the driver, have been arrested and are assisting with the investigation. The men are from South, Sophia, Georgetown; South Amelia’s Ward, Linden; and West Ruimveldt Housing Scheme, Georgetown.

Only last week, ‘A Division’ (Georgetown-East Bank Demerara) Commander Marlon Chapman pledged heightened security for the holidays.

Commander Chapman gave the assurance during the Guyana Police Force (GPF) annual Christmas presentation held at the Officers’ Mess Hall, Eve Leary, Georgetown.

According to Chapman, Police

The items unearthed in the car

patrols and outposts around the city will be boosted in a bid to ensure a secure shopping environment.

Chapman revealed that part of the efforts to ensure increased safety is the splitting of Georgetown into seven subsections as compared to six last year.

These sub-sections run from Agricola, Greater Georgetown to Central Georgetown.

The areas will be equipped

with mobile outposts, and frequent patrols will occur, with senior members of the GPF in charge of each sub-sector.

Chapman added that the commercial shopping zones would be covered in the heightened security plan, so that citizens could shop in comfort.

According to the Divisional Commander, vehicular and motorcycle patrols will be conducted on a 24-hour basis.

Elimination of violence against women

UG Berbice Campus hosts anti-violence fair

Persons at the UGBC elimination of violence against women fair

T

he University of Guyana Berbice Campus on Monday observed the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women with several programmes targeting young males with the aim of educating them about violence against women.

This is the 19th year the United Nations has set aside a day for elimination of violence against women. At the UG Berbice Campus, social work classes have been hosting programmes annually in observance of the UN day from the first through the fourth year.

Previously, much of the focus was on women, and empowering them. However, Lecturer Paulette Henry explained that this year it was different, with the focus being on young males.

“We had, over the years, activities that would have targeted the entire population; but for this year specifically, we wanted to target younger males -- teen males and youth -- and we have worked in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Protection,” she said.

Henry noted that two of-

ficers for that ministry are fourth-year students and are being trained to take the skills they acquired at the university into the communities in which they work.

“So we feel that with the issues that we have in Berbice, the University has a responsibility to be a part of the conformation of the actions that are necessary to reduce the amount of violence that we are having,” she said.

Meanwhile, Coordinator of the Division of Social Sciences, Chelsea Halley-Crawford, noted that 16 days have been set aside in observance.

November 25 is set aside as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

According to HalleyCrawford, Monday’s activity was referred to as their orange day event, during which they were trying to promote ways other than violence which can be used to solve social issues.

During the workshop, persons who were victims of domestic violence participated in sharing the anti-violence message.

Halley-Crawford said the Violence against Women workshop targeted males since, according to studies, they are mostly the aggressors in domestic disputes.

“We tried to focus on men, since they are the dominant figure in the home. If we can get men to understand that there are several ways in resolving an issue -- it doesn’t have to be hitting; and if we can get them to learn ways of coping and dealing with issues, we can move from where we currently are in society, and we will not have to hear of the murder or abuse of another woman,” she said.

She said that, at the 16 days of activism, the University is hoping that at least one male would have changed.

“Everything starts with one, and if we can have one step, it’s progress.”

Fourth year student Anson Barrington told this publication that the class had organised a health both on the Campus.

“We are promoting women’s health in observance of observed the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.” Pamphlets on women health issues were available on campus.

Another fourth-year student, Sharron Gilbert, further explained that sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and other illnesses are prevalent among females. She said persons at the health booth also received information on depression and other related conditions. Meanwhile, Henry said the university has been making an impact, since persons in Berbice have been calling to enquire about the workshops and programs.

14 news

TuesdAY, November 27, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Jagdeo points to Govt failure to properly manage SWF …as GCCI says a lot more still to be done Guyana’s Green Paper

M

oments after Finance Minister Winston Jordan took a breath from presenting an almost five-hour-long 2019 National Budget, Opposition Leader

Bharrat Jagdeo blasted the coalition Government for failing to address key matters, such as the management of the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF), which is intended to safekeep

proceeds from the oil and gas sector.

Jagdeo explained on Monday evening that the administration has failed to address and put measures in

place to properly manage the SWF, as he believes it should be managed by a non-political body rather than Government.

“We argued for a non-political, an a political type of

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo addressing the media after the budget presentation

model that insulates the management of the funds from politicians, (and) the politicians get involved only when based on a formula that is in enshrined in our laws, and an independent verification that the conditions of that formula are met is presented, then that comes to the National Assembly and a release of funds is made to the budget to spend based on the budgeting prerogatives of whoever is in power, the Minister of Finance, in this case, would have a full prerogative to program those funds,” he explained.

Jagdeo argued that Jordan did not, at no point in time, address those issues, but in fact comforted the nation by saying that a Department of Energy has been set up to manage the sector and experts would be hired to “talk”.

According to the Leader of the Opposition, the Government has made the very promise a long time back, and the budget failed to bring new ideas to the forefront for the benefit of the country at large.

Jagdeo was keen to point out quite a number of avenues in which the administration failed, and pointed to job provision as a major area. He argued, “He (Jordan) has not moved the conversation forward on any count whatsoever; not on transparency issues, not on the model enshrined in the Green Paper, not on the oversight issues, not on the terms of reference between the Petroleum Commission and the Energy Department, the overlap there, not on the issue of bidding for new contracts; none of those issues were elucidated”.

Private Sector

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Nonetheless, Executive Director of the Guyana Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Richard Rambarran, gave his take on the matter of the SWF, saying that the industry believes a lot more is yet to be done to the Green Paper.

Rambarran pointed out that he believes there are at least 10 areas of the Green Paper which ought to be sorted out before the document actually becomes legislation.

“I found that there were a number of areas where (in) about 10 specific areas a lot more work could have been done…I think that as a Green Paper we need to look at it a little bit more, and understand the dynamics and the workings and how we are going to integrate oil into this economy, and utilise the Sovereign Wealth Fund for the maintenance of a stable macroeconomic environment,” the Director shared.

He noted that among the 10

areas that deserve urgent attention by the Government are, “The composition of the macroeconomic committee, the nature of the Sovereign Investment Committee, (and) we have a couple of others in that it conflicts with laws in terms of the constitution”.

The representative who spoke with this newspaper after the budget presentation also alluded to the fact that monies that are to be expended from the SWF depend on the mechanisms of the Government, which leaves little room for reform or improvement to the current institutions in Financial Management.

Rambarran questioned, “Do we have things on fiscal deficit rules? Do we have things on the rate of revenue expenditure?

Do we have rules concerning the rate of expenditure growth?

Do we have balanced budget rules? Those are some of the areas in the public financial management framework where the Sovereign Wealth Fund is so critical, (and) those things are critically lacking”.

Chartered Accountant Christopher Ram had also raised concerns over Finance Minister Winston Jordan’s position as a spender and saver of Guyana’s wealth, given that he will be in charge of the SWF. Ram noted that under the previous administration the very matter would have drawn the attention of the serving Coalition Government.

Ram raised his concerns at an Energy Forum held last month at Duke Lodge.

“I wonder whether they (the Government) would have liked the same mechanism that they are setting out here if another Government -- let’s not call the name of that other Government -- if another Government was in place, would we want a situation where a Minister who is responsible for spending is also the Minister responsible for saving and generating revenue and protecting those revenues?”

The accountant said he is confident the administration would have rebutted this, and he questioned the Government’s recommendation to have Jordan spearhead the SWF. In a subsequent interview with this publication, Ram point out the need for transparency in the sector.

He recommended the SWF be entirely isolated from the “spending Ministry,” as it could have an impact on everyone.

Ram also pointed to the need for an “entrenched article” in the constitution, so that no one, including Ministers, would be able to access those funds, as he described it as a generational fund for the future.

news

15

tuesdAY, November 27, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Carjackers steal parked Charity Market vendors slammed for car from EBD yard dumping garbage in waterways

P

olice are investigating a carjacking at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), during which a motor vehicle was stolen from the owner’s yard late last week.

Based on information received, the grey 212 motor car bearing registration number PPP 7358 went missing overnight from the EBD yard.

The owner of the vehicle, Natasha Taylor, told Guyana Times that she parked her car in her yard and retired to bed. However, the following morning, to her surprise, the car was missing.

“Thursday morning when I woke up, I didn’t see the car … when I get up, I look through the window, it wasn’t there,” the distressed

W

The stolen car

woman said.

She said she rushed into the yard and then made a Police report.

“I’m trying all around to get it done. I have to go over to the station because some-

body text me anonymous and said they saw it Friday night.”

She is urging persons with information to contact her on 691-1419 or the nearest Police Station.

Justice Andrew Burgess appointed to CCJ

B

arbados Court of Appeal Judge Andrew Burgess has been appointed to the Caribbean Court of Justice.

This was announced on Monday by the Chairman of the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission (RJLSC) and President of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Justice Adrian Saunders.

Justice Saunders welcomed the newest CCJ Judge, stating: “Justice Burgess brings with him a wide range of international and regional experience, which will be a great complement to the outstanding jurists already serving the Court. I look forward to him joining us in the new year, and i am confident that he will continue the tradition of excellence that has characterised his career thus far.”

Justice Burgess became

Justice Andrew Burgess

a Court of Appeal Judge in 2010. He was previously a Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus and a Professor of Corporate and Commercial Law. He also had a distinguished career internationally as a judge of the InterAmerican Development

Bank’s Administrative Tribunal in Washington DC, and was the body’s Vice President in 2007 and 2009 and served as President from 2009 to 2010.

He serves as a judge on the World Bank Administrative Tribunal, having been appointed in 2013. In 2017, he was elected by his fellow Judges to be the Vice President of the tribunal. He was a Senior Commonwealth Fellow at Oxford University, England between 1992 and 1993.

Burgess is also an author, having published Commonwealth Caribbean Company Law in 2013 and the Law of Corporate Receivers and ReceiverManagers in 2002. His appointment will fill the vacancy left by the elevation of Justice Saunders to the position of President in July 2018.

hile the Regional Administration and the Tourism Association of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) are busy cleaning up the Region for the holiday season, sellers, vending on Mondays at the Charity Market are doing the opposite.

A visit to Charity on Monday, two weeks after a general clean-up was carried out in the area, revealed that those culpable had no regard for the environment. This has led to much criticism against those who vend in the area.

Speaking with Guyana Times, a Charity Market vendor, who plies her trade every day at the Market, said that the main culprits were not the regular vendors but those who vend only on Mondays. Monday is the biggest market day at Charity.

“They come and sell and throw their garbage all over the place, even into the drainage system," another Charity Market vendor told this publication. On Mondays, persons from as far as Region One (BarimaWaini) go to Charity to do business and as such, large numbers of vendors grab at the opportunity to sell their products.

Residents living in the Pomeroon River are also be-

Garbage in a trench at Charity, Essequibo Coast two weeks after the area was cleaned

ing affected since most of the garbage in the drainage system at Charity ends up in the Pomeroon River.

According to a Pomeroon River resident, this can be very detrimental for them since they depend solely on the river water to do everyday chores. Speedboat operators operating in the Pomeroon River are also complaining of the many objects thrown into the waterways which are dangerous, since they can lead to accidents.

Less than two weeks ago, the President and members of the Region Two Tourism Association, in collaboration with the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), met with the Regional

Chairman Devanand Ramdatt to discuss plans for the Region’s tourism sector.

According to the Regional Chairman, to attract tourism to the Region, there must be a clean environment; courteous and reliable transportation providers; accommodations; stable electricity, water and communication and easy access to places of interest.

The Region Two Tourism Association President Maria Lords-Lewis said that plans were in place to start a tourism awareness drive in the Region by reaching out to the schools, business sector, service providers, and residents so as to get all involved, prepared, and ready.

16

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesdAY, november 27, 2018

Regional

UN approves US$9M in aid for crisis-stricken Venezuela

T

he United Nations on Monday announced US$9.2 million in health and nutritional aid for crisis-stricken Venezuela, where hunger and preventable disease are soaring amid the collapse of the country’s socialist economic system.

It is the first UN emergency funding for the Government of President Nicolás Maduro, which blames the country’s economic problems on US financial sanctions and an “economic war” led by political adversaries.

Government critics celebrated the move as recognition by Venezuelan authorities that the country faces a humanitarian crisis – something Maduro has denied in the past – and a step toward treating a population starved of basic services.

But some worry the funds could fuel the corruption of the ruling Socialist Party, which was put on display last week when a former Venezuelan treasurer told US Prosecutors he took US$1 billion in bribes.

The UN Central Emergency Response Fund

A Venezuelan migrant brushes his teeth outside his tent in a makeshift camp in Bogota, Colombia, November 11, 2018

(CERF) will support projects to provide nutritional support to children under five years old, pregnant women and lactating mothers at risk, and emergency health care for the vulnerable, CERF’s website said.

“CERF allocations are made to ensure a rapid response to sudden-onset emergencies or to rapidly deteriorating conditions in an existing emergency,” according to CERF’s website.

CERF mainly funds projects in countries at war or experiencing other crises like natural disasters, a UN official told Reuters, adding that other UN agencies may

have provided funding to Venezuela through separate programmes.

Venezuela’s Information Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Aid for Venezuela’s crisis has until now been focused on South American nations that have received most of the three million Venezuelans who have left the country amid a mass exodus since 2015. CERF’s website shows it has provided US$6.2 million for “Venezuela’s Regional Refugee and Migration Crisis”. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Brazilian President-elect adds 5th military man to Cabinet

B

razil’s right-wing President-elect Jair Bolsonaro on Monday picked retired General Carlos Alberto dos Santos Cruz as his minister in charge of political relations with Congress, adding a fifth military man to his cabinet.

Bolsonaro, a former army captain turned politician who surged to victory on a pledge to end years of corruption and rising violence, made the announcement in a Twitter post.

Moving to deliver on his law-and-order platform, Bolsonaro’s choice for justice and public security, former anti-corruption judge Sergio Moro, said he would coordinate federal and state po-

lice forces to better fight organised crime and slow the growth of Brazil’s powerful drug gangs that control swaths of cities.

Some Brazilians are concerned that the appointment of Santos Cruz, who led United Nations peacekeepers in Haiti and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and other current or former military officials marks a return to a militarised government. Bolsonaro takes office on January 1.

Seeking to defuse those concerns, Bolsonaro, a fan of the 1964-85 military dictatorship, has vowed to adhere to Brazil’s Constitution and has moderated some of his more extreme views expressed during almost three

decades as a federal congressman.

Bolsonaro, who has long been a critic of the socialist government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, again appeared to tone down his strident views on regional migration, saying that Venezuelans fleeing to Brazil could not be returned to their country “because they are not merchandise”.

In comments to reporters on the weekend, he also floated the idea of creating a refugee camp for Venezuelans in the northern border state of Roraima, while defending strict checks on who enters “because there are some people we don’t want in Brazil”.

M

wards the border fence near the city of Tijuana.

US border officers used tear gas to repel them and said some threw rocks.

US President Donald Trump has reiterated a threat he made last week to close the border completely.

On Monday, US officials confirmed that 42 people who managed to cross on Sunday had been arrested, accused of disturbing the

T

he majority of women murdered in Trinidad and Tobago were as a result of domestic violence last year, and the country’s highest ranking female politician is calling for a national response to the issue.

In a statement commemorating the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on Saturday, Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar said violence against women in the twin-island republic remained at unacceptably high levels.

“The statistics are not encouraging, and are, in fact, cause for deep concern.

A recent report by the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) shows that one in three women in our country would have experienced

Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar

violence at the hands of an intimate partner. In 2017, 43 of the 52 women murdered were due to domestic violence. For 2018 so far, 28 women have been murdered,” she said.

The former Prime Minister pointed out that the 2017 National Women’s Health Survey for Trinidad

peace and other charges.

And Gerardo Garcia Benavente, of Mexico’s migration office, said: “Ninetyeight foreigners were returned to their country last night following the violent incident at the border post.”

Tension has been running high on the USMexican border since the arrival of almost 7500 migrants over the past weeks.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

and Tobago showed that one in three women who experienced intimate partner violence (IPV) remained quiet about their experience and most survivors did not seek or receive assistance for their situation.

“We must do more to protect our girls and women.

Women no longer feel safe in their homes, on the streets, at their jobs or while doing everyday activities.”

“We must stand in support of the women who are bravely speaking out against their attackers, and for those who cannot, or who may be reluctant, we need to be their voices and demand action.”

Persad-Bissessar said children should also be taught that violence is not the answer. (Excerpt from

Caribbean360)

Haitian PM tries job handouts to calm deadly unrest

P

rotests in Haiti continue their deadly toll even as embattled Haitian Prime Minister Jean-Henry Ceant tries to restore calm after more than a week of unrest.

In a speech posted on Facebook on Saturday, Ceant announced that from Monday, a public works programme to clean canals, build roads and pick up trash would begin in a bid to provide quick access to jobs for the poor in the capital of Port-au-Prince.

“These are jobs that will be created, economic activity that will be started, and the

country will be put back in shape,” said Ceant, who has acknowledged that nearly 80 per cent of Haiti’s population live on less than US$2 a day, and the country’s Gross Domestic Product per inhabitant is only US$765 a year, six times less than that of neighbouring Dominican Republic.

Ceant’s two-monthold Administration has been rocked by large-scale protests that began on November 18 as thousands have demanded the resignation of President Jovenel Moise for his alleged failure to investigate corruption

and misuse of funds under the last government.

Days of clashes between Police and protesters in the nation’s capital left at least three people dead, although unofficial reports put the number closer to 11, several vehicles were ablaze and a Police Officer was injured by a firebomb.

“We are going to help young people create businesses. There will be loans to create 1000 small businesses a month, including 200 a month earmarked for young people so they can create their own jobs,” Ceant said as he tried to return hope.

(Excerpt from Caribbean360)

UWI to benefit from over US$250M in support as part of reparations for slavery

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Migrant caravan: Mexico deports group that stormed US border exico says it has deported nearly 100 Central American migrants a day after they tried to storm the US border. The group, among thousands of migrants heading towards the US, was rounded up after trying to cross the border “violently” and “illegally” on Sunday, said the Interior Ministry.

Video footage shows dozens of people running to-

Former T&T PM calls for national response to women murdered by their partners

Jamaican slave owners had adopted the University of Glasgow as their university of choice and £200 million of value (US$256 million) was extracted from Jamaica and the Caribbean

T

he University of the West Indies (UWI) and the University of Glasgow have to come to an agreement that will see the Caribbean institution benefit from £200 million (US$256 million) worth of reparations linked to slavery.

Vice Chancellor of the UWI, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, revealed recently during an interview on the Jamaica News Network (JNN)

programme, Insight, that his university and the Scottish institution were currently drafting a Memorandum of Understanding that would see a combination of cash and kind support for the programmes of the regional university.

This action comes two months after the University of Glasgow published the ground-breaking report “Slavery, Abolition and the

University of Glasgow” that revealed that 16 bursaries, endowments and mortifications donated to the institution between 1809 and 1937 had a direct link to profits from slavery. One of the listed benefactors included a former rector of the Scottish university, Robert Graham, who was a plantation owner in Jamaica and owned and benefited from slaves for over 40 years.

Beckles, who was one of three external advisors to the report, said in the interview that the University of Glasgow recognised that Jamaican slave owners had adopted the University of Glasgow as their university of choice and that £200 million of value (US$256 million) was extracted from Jamaica and the Caribbean.

The UWI Head, who recently returned from the UK, said that once Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli, the Vice Chancellor for the University of Glasgow, opened up their records, they showed a ‘massive influx’ of grants and endowments from Jamaica.

(Excerpt from Caribbean360)

17

tuesdAY, november 27, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

Around the World

Ukraine imposes martial law NASA lands robot as tensions with Russia flare to study Mars

U

T

he United Nations has held an emergency session on what Ukraine has called "an act of aggression" off the coast of Crimea, following the seizure by Russia of three Ukrainian ships during a naval clash in the Black Sea. The Security Council meeting on Monday came just a few hours before the Ukrainian Parliament passed a proposal by the country's President to impose martial law for 30 days.

Addressing the Council, US Ambassador to the UN, Nikki Haley warned Russia that the seizure of the ships on Sunday in the Sea of Azov was an "outrageous violation" of Ukraine's sovereign territory and urged the international community to condemn Russia's "arrogant" act.

Haley said such "outlaw actions" are preventing normal relations from developing between Washington and Moscow.

Russia has said the three ships – two small armoured artillery vessels and a tug boat – illegally entered Russian territorial waters.

S space agency NASA has landed a new robot on Mars after a dramatic seven-minute plunge to the surface of the Red Planet.

The InSight probe aims to study the deep interior of Mars, and make it the only planet – apart from Earth – that has been examined in this way.

The touchdown confirmation came through shortly after 19:50h GMT.

Referring to Sunday's incident, Polyansky said Ukraine had planned the "provocation" in advance with the coordination of Western States, which he said had given the Ukrainian Government "carte blanche".

Kiev has said its vessels did nothing wrong and has accused Russia of military aggression.

Ukraine's Ambassador to the UN, Volodymyr

Yelchenko called Russia's claim that Ukrainian ships violated Russia's borders "an outright lie", warning that rising tensions with Moscow "constitute a clear threat to international peace and security".

Also on Monday, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg called on Russia to release the Ukrainian ships and sailors, saying there was no justification for Moscow's actions.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

GM to slash 14,700 jobs and close 8 plants

G

eneral Motors (GM) plans to halt production at five factories in North America and cut more than 14,000 jobs.

The US carmaker has also announced it will close three plants outside North America by the end of 2019.

The moves follow rising costs and slower car sales and come as the firm focuses on its line-up of trucks, electric and self-driving vehicles.

The company said the plan would help it save

General Motors will halt production at five plants in North America, including the Oshawa plant in Canada

about US$6 billion.

The cutbacks include a

(Excerpt from BBC News)

UAE releases British scholar after pardon

Tensions have flared between Russia and Ukraine [Yevgeny Volokin/Reuters]

The Russian deputy representative to the UN, Dmitry Polyansky accused Ukraine of concocting a Russian threat in the Sea of Azov with Western support.

"Our country has never struck the first blow, but it can stand up for itself," he told the Council, adding: "The population of the Crimea, as well as other regions of Russia, is under reliable protection."

It ended an anxious few minutes in which the robot radioed home updates on its descent.

NASA's mission control in California erupted into cheers when it became clear InSight was safe on the ground.

The probe put down on a vast, flat plain known as Elysium Planitia, close to the Red Planet's equator. The agency had dubbed it the "biggest parking lot on Mars".

15 per cent reduction in the number of its salaried employees, including 25 per cent fewer executives.

The five plants in North America alone employ about 7000 people currently, including more than 6000 shift workers.

"The actions we are taking today continue our transformation to be highly agile, resilient and profitable, while giving us the flexibility to invest in the future," said GM chair and chief executive Mary Barra.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Matthew Hedges, 31, was sentenced to life in prison for espionage last week [Handout/Detained In Dubai/AFP]

T

he United Arab Emirates (UAE) has freed British scholar Matthew Hedges, who was sentenced to life in prison last week for spying.

Hedges, 31, was released on Monday, after he received a presidential pardon, Emirati officials said.

The scholar was among more than 700 people pardoned by the UAE President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Monday, the country's national day.

The scholar will be permitted to leave the UAE "once formalities are completed", an official statement

said, ahead of his release.

Daniela Tejada, Hedges' wife, said on Twitter that the pardon was the "best news we could've received".

She also told the BBC that she does not believe her husband is a spy.

"I can't wait to have him back" and added: "In my heart, I know that he isn't a spy."

The UAE had come under increasing international pressure since Hedges, a doctoral student in Middle Eastern studies at Durham University in northern England, was handed a life sentence. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

South African bees: 1 million die in Cape Town India marks

A

t least one million bees are suspected to have died of poisoning in a wine-producing area of South Africa.

Brendan Ashley-Cooper told the BBC that an insecticide used by wine farm-

ers, Fipronil, was thought to have killed the insects on his farm.

Other honey bee farmers in the area around Cape Town have also been affected, but it is still unclear how many of the in-

sects have died, he said.

Fipronil has been blamed for the deaths of millions of honey bees in Europe.

Campaigners say Fipronil is highly toxic to insects, and its use was re-

stricted in Europe in 2013.

It is unclear how many bees there are in South Africa, but the deaths would not make much difference to their overall population, Ashley-Cooper said. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Chinese charged over Kenya 'railway scam'

T

The US$3 billion Chinese-funded railway is Kenya's biggest infrastructure project since its independence

hree Chinese nationals have been charged with attempting to bribe investigators working on an alleged ticketing scam in a massive Kenyan railway project.

Some US$10,000 a day was being stolen in the scheme, local media say.

Officers were allegedly offered a US$5000 bribe, the prosecutor says.

The US$3 billion Chinese-funded and operated railway line is Kenya's biggest infrastructure project since independence in

1963.

It has, however, been hit by scandals since it launched in May 2017.

The three Chinese nationals: Li Gen, head of transport; Li Xiaowu, security manager, and Sun Xin, staff member, work for China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC).

They were arrested on Friday as they attempted to bribe investigators, but it is unclear how long the alleged fraud had been going on.

They deny the allegations.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

10 years since Mumbai attacks

I

t was a regular hot afternoon 10 years ago in western India's financial hub, Mumbai. The place was abuzz with tourists outside the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and the iconic Gateway of India across the street.

But everything changed hours later, when 10 gunmen entered the city from the sea overnight to unleash nearly 72 hours of mayhem, an event that is commonly known in India as the 26/11 attacks.

Armed with AK-47 assault rifles and hand grenades, the attackers belonged to the Pakistanbased Lashkar-e-Taiba armed group.

The 26/11 attacks began at the massive Chhatrapati

Shivaji railway station, one of the world's busiest, and soon spread to the Taj and Oberoi hotels; Leopold Café; Nariman House – home of the ultra-orthodox Jewish outreach group, Chabad Lubavitch – and many other locations across Mumbai.

The attacks, which played out on TV news channels around the world and dealt a major blow to India's relations with Pakistan, left 166 people, including nine attackers, killed and hundreds of others wounded.

Ten years later, on yet another hot afternoon in Mumbai, the Gateway of India was cordoned off for a memorial event, which was attended only by invited dignitaries. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesdAY, November 27, 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)

A change of plans will turn out to be to your benefit. Pay close attention to detail when dealing with matters concerning personal finances or handling someone else’s affairs.

Listen and be supportive.

Being accommodating now will position you well when something comes along that requires support from others. A domestic change will require patience.

Partnerships should be handled with honesty and integrity. If someone shows signs of manipulative tendencies, you are best off making clear what you want and expect to see unfold.

Take care of your responsibilities. Don’t leave a job that belongs to you in someone else’s hands. Dedication and loyalty will be of utmost importance when it comes to partnerships.

Participate, network and make connections that will help you reach your goal.

You can bring about change that will enhance your life, but don’t get involved in a venture you can’t afford.

Keep your thoughts and opinions to yourself. If you are too open about your plans, you will invite opposition. Being well-prepared will prevent interference.

Look for alternative ways LIBRA (Sept. 23- to get what you want. Learn Oct. 23) all you can and set up meetings with people who can offer you solutions to a problem you face.

WORD GAME TODAY’S WORD — PERMEATE

SUDOKU

(PERMEATE: PER-mee-ate: To spread or diffuse through.)

Average mark 39 words Time limit 40 minutes

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

A unique lifestyle will suit your current situation.

Not everyone will agree with the decisions you make, but you have to do whatever works best for you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

A gift or financial gain is heading your way. If someone owes you money or a favor, now is the time to collect. Don’t let emotions dictate the level of your indulgence.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Consider the pros and cons before making a change. You will discover a better way to get what you want if you are patient and wait for something better to come along.

Can you find 49 or more words in PERMEATE? The list will be published tomorrow.

YESTERDAY’S WORD — COPIERS

cero cire coir cope coper copies copse core corps corpse cosier cries crisp crop

peso pier poise pore pose poser precis price pries prose epic epos rice ripe

rise rope rose scope score scrip sire sore spice spier spire spore

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)

If you express your feelings and goals, you’ll receive feedback that will help you get things moving along.

Personal improvements and romance are favored.

Be careful what you share with a friend, peer or relative. Information can be easily misconstrued to suit someone else’s needs. Avoid exaggeration as well as indulgent behavior.

tuesdAY, november 27, 2018

19

Who will be the new addition to the Guyana Jaguars 4-Day Team?

– Lewis, Ali-Mohammed and Anderson in contention

By Brandon Corlette

W

ith Shimron Hetmyer, Keemo Paul, Raymond Reifer, Chanderpaul Hemraj and Sherfane Rutherford in contention regarding the playing of the remaining matches for the West Indies against Bangladesh, selectors may have their eyes set on new players.

Cricket West Indies’ (CWI’s) Regional 4-day tournament is scheduled for Thursday December 6, nine days away; and selectors would have already shortlisted a few players who could earn selection for the Guyana Jaguars team. The tournament is less than 10 days away, and the squad will be announced shortly.

The person next in line to make his debut may be 20-year-old Renaldo AliMohammed, who was selected to play in the Regional Super50 tournament for the Guyana Jaguars.

Mohammed has represented the West Indies under 19

Kevlon Anderson

Ramaal Lewis

team, and has had a fruitful 2018, smashing two centuries in the recently concluded Cricket Guyana Inc. (CGI) 50-over franchise league.

Mohammed’s sensational season saw him score 105 and 101 against Lower Corentyne and West Demerara respectively; and he is also known for his right-arm seam bowling,

would gives him an edge over other players.

Kevlon Anderson has a name that likely bombards the selectors’ ears very often; at 18 years old, he is considered the best youth batsman in the country, but he still has some distance to go.

Anderson had as great a year with the bat as Mohammed, piling up centu-

Renaldo Ali-Mohammed

ry upon century in first division cricket, under 19 cricket, under 21 cricket, and second division cricket. However, his sensational 116 against a star-studded Georgetown team at Bourda in the (CGI) Franchise league is the century that stands out.

Additionally, Anderson has had a century in the (CGI) 3-day franchise against East

Coast.

22-year-old Jamaica-born Ramaal Antwaine Lewis has played one first class match for Jamaica in 2015: at Kingston against Barbados from March 20-23, 2015. He tasted success in the recently concluded Regional Super 50 Tournament, and has snared 20 wickets in ‘List A’ cricket, with best bowling figures

of 4-25 against Windward Islands at Tarouba this year.

Lewis showed his consistency with the ball in the CGI 50-Over franchise cricket, emerging as the leading wicket-taker. He recently showed his potential with the bat when he stroked a composed 46 in the trial match at Everest.

Lodge, Christianburg secure Brian Tiwari 60th Anniversary Football Competition… wins in Guyoil 9th round Top performers awarded

L

odge Secondary made a resounding return to the top of the Guyoil /Tradewind Tankers points table, while Christianburg-Wismar Secondary proved that they are better than Annandale.

In a day that was filled with thrills, Lodge Secondary set the momentum in the first match with a full onslaught on the struggling Queenstown Secondary.

Yet to lose an encounter, Lodge have managed to grab their top spot from Annandale Secondary, who held it for a few days.

Curt Edwards began the scoring for Lodge in the 5th minute, and Rickie Stewart wasted no time in pushing the score to 2-0 minutes later. In a period of superb striking by a youngster, Nicholas Trotman completed a hat-trick with goals in the 16th, 18th and 19 th minutes.

Alongside Dorwin George’s first two goals, the score sat at 7-0 by the half. Rasheed Evans and Shemroy Meyers had a piece of the pie in the second, and George returned to complete his hat-trick in the 50th for Lodge’s 10-0 win over Queenstown.

The second game was equally exciting, as second and third place teams Annandale and Christianburg-Wismar battled for the first time.

Christianburg’s front runner Tyrese Lewis netted his first in the 13th and Andre Meyers did the same in the 18th, to create a 2-0 lead. The defence on both sides then became impenetrable as the score remained unchanged until the second half. Here, Omari Glasgow secured Annandale’s first goal, but the Linden boys showed their invincibility when Jermaine Mason collected two, and Lewis netted another for a shocking 5-1 win.

The encounter between the Bishops’ High School and Vergenoegen Secondary was also one to watch. Vergenoegen found themselves at a 2-1 advantage when the first half expired.

Esan Heyner then contributed another to see the scores to 3-1, but some great playing on Bishops’ part saw the scores level at 3-3. The score remained locked for some time, until Ronaldo Macey got the edge for his team to secure the win.

In other results, Uitvlugt Secondary was awarded a walkover when St. Roses failed to show.

T

Part of the proceedings during the prize-giving ceremony

op finishers in the recently concluded Brian Tiwari 60th Anniversary Football Competition were on Monday awarded in the office of the sponsor.

Den Amstel fought off the Timehri Panthers in the grand finale to win 4-0 and claim the title in the inaugural 2-day event.

Den Amstel received $100,000 for the win, while Timehri Panthers had to settle for the runner up prize of $50,000.

Head Coach of Den Amstel, O’Neil Heywood, said: “We are really grateful that we won the tournament. We are also grateful to BK, as they came out and sponsored the tournament; and I’m just hoping they continue the sponsorship each year, and hope we get a bigger competition in the future”.

Tiwari told the small gathering at his office

that the support will be there as long as his good friend McAurthur continues to put the work.

Speaking at the press conference, a representative of football management in Guyana said gestures like this one are always a plus, since it would benefit the teams and motivate them to do more.

Tiwari also reminisced on the times when he was associated with Western Tigers and his impact on encouraging the team. He went on to state that, as time progressed, he eventually ended the partnership, due to the lack of stability.

However, the avid sport supporter noted his company invests a minimum of $20 million dollars into sports on a yearly basis. (Timothy Jaikarran)

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

tuesdAY, november 27, 2018

Gone are those days: West Indies v Test cricket – 7 series won, 4 drawn and 18 lost in 29 Test series from 2010 to 2018 West Indies fans celebrate a 5-0 victory against England during the glory days

By Brandon Corlette

J

udging from the statistics over the past 10 years, the West Indies have certainly lost their glory days in Test cricket. Is this because of T20 cricket, or is it because of poor man-

agement of the team?

Heading down memory lane, the West Indies were on top of the world during the period 1982/83 to 1985/86, having won seven consecutive Test series therein.

The winning streak

started when India toured the West Indies in a fivematch series in 1983.

Exhilarating cricket was played, and the Clive Lloydled team won that series 2 0. Andy Roberts starred in the first Test match, finishing with figures of 9-100 in 46.3 overs of fearsome fast bowling; and for his efforts he was awarded ‘player of the match’.

The memorable 1983 series against India continued with three hard fought draws, but West Indies completed a ten-wicket victory in Bridgetown in the period April 15-20 1983, thus sealing the series. In that era, West Indies were equipped with fast bowling weapons that destroyed Test-playing nations. In their ten-wicket victory, West Indies bowled out India for 209 and 277 after Gus Logie (130), Desmond Haynes (92), and Vivian Richards (80) had led their team to 486.

West Indies then proved to the world that they can dominate in another team’s homeland when they defeated India 3-0 in a 6-match Test series in 1983/84. The first Test match belonged to Malcolm Marshall, who scored a defiant 92 and picked up 8-66 from 32 overs. Gordon Greenidge also played a significant role with a sensational 194 to see West Indies thump India by an innings and 83 runs.

Paul Terry, batting with a broken arm, keeps out a Joel Garner yorker, England v West Indies, 4th Test, Old Trafford, 3rd day, July 28, 1984

Michael Holding then made the third Test match his own, scoring runs and picking up wickets at his own will, as the West Indies dominated India at home and away.

The third consecutive Test series won by the West Indies was against the mighty Australians (The Frank Worrell Trophy) in 1983/84. West Indies won the 5-match series 3-0, winning two Test matches by 10 wickets and one by an innings and 36 runs. It was an awesome performance by arguably the best Test team that ever played the game.

West Indies then toured England, and it was the famous 1984 tour that saw England being whitewashed 5-0. The first Test match

belonged to Larry Gomes and Joel Garner. Gomes smashed his way to 143, as West Indies posted 606, and England were bowled out for 191 and 235, with Garner leading the way with match figures of 9-108 in 38.2 overs. The Caribbean men cruised to an innings and 180 runs’ victory.

In the second match, at Lords, West Indies won by nine wickets, with Gordon Greenidge smashing a fourth innings’ double-century chasing 342 runs for victory.

The dominance continued in the third Test, when Larry Gomes stroked a century that saw West Indies completing an eight-wicket win that ensured the Caribbean team lifted the

Wisden Trophy with two matches to play. From 19791994, West Indies have never lost a Test series, until the team from down under – Australia -- won The Frank Worrell Trophy 2-1 in 1994/95.

Since Bangladesh and Zimbabwe are ranked below the West Indies in the current Test rankings, West Indies have not defeated any higher-ranked Test team in a Test series since 2012.

The West Indies won a twomatch home Test series 2-0 against New Zealand, but that seemed a lifetime ago.

When will West Indies win a Test series again? Certainly not soon, since Bangladesh has won the first Test by 64 runs in the ongoing Test series.

England women to host Australia & West Indies in 2019

I

CC Women’s World T20 finalists England will host West Indies and Australia next summer, with six ODIs, six IT20s and one Test.

The Test match will form part of the Women’s Ashes which will once again be a multi-format points system.

The West Indies ODIs will count towards the ICC Women’s Championship, with qualification for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2021 at stake.

Heather Knight’s team will visit eight grounds across the country, starting at Leicester and finishing at Bristol with the historic Women’s Ashes Test match taking place at Taunton.

The Kia Super League will follow the Women's Ashes, with Finals Day once again taking place at Hove.

Clare Connor, Director of England Women’s Cricket, said: “We are thrilled to host two world class women’s teams on our

shores in the summer of 2019.

“As we have just seen in front of record crowds at the ICC Women's World T20 in West Indies, both West Indies and Australia will be sure to provide a great challenge for us as well as skillful, entertaining cricket for the growing fan-base for the women’s game.

“Every Ashes summer is a privilege for us all to be part of and we’re looking forward to collaborating with all our venues to en-

sure we deliver high quality match-day experiences

throughout the summer of 2019.”

WEST INDIES Thursday, June 6 *First ODI v West Indies. Fischer County Ground, Leicester Sunday, June 9 *Second ODI v West Indies. Blackfinch New Road, Worcester Thursday, June 13 *Third ODI v West Indies. Cloudfm County Ground, Chelmsford Tuesday, June 18 First IT20 v West Indies. The County Ground, Northampton Friday, June 21 Second IT20 v West Indies. The County Ground, Northampton Tuesday, June 25 Third IT20 v West Indies. County Ground, Derby

CLASSIFIED ADS TUESdAY, november 27, 2018 | www.guyanatimesgy.com

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

Aracari Resort WBD – 264-2946 Alex Wayne.

Weddings and anniversaries: Rental or full service: Banquet Hall & Catering.

Aracari Resort 264-2946 Alex Wayne.

Aracari Hotel, WBD (Near Harbour Bridge) – All modern amenities, rates from $25. Phone 264-2946-8 Salon/Spa. Cosmetology – full course $100,000, technician $40,000. Aracari Salon and Spa, WBD 264-3312

ARCHITECTURE MIKHAIL AHMAD FOUNDER AND CEO OF L.A ARCHITECTUREGY DESIGNS AND PLANS. CALL 610-1232 OR 2533173. VISIT FACEBOOK PAGE L.A architecturegy. INSTAGRAM @ laarchitecturegy OR www.laarchitecturegy.com

Driving School Enroll at Shalom Enterprise at Lot 2 Croal Street, Stabroek and obtain an international driver’s permit covering 132 countries. Tel# 619-0106, 622-8162, 227-3869, 227-3835.

services SPECIALIZE IN ROTI AND PURI. PLACE YOUR ORDER FOR ANY AMOUNT. CONTACT JENNIFER OR SON ON 693-4975 OR 672-0960.

sports

Artificial turf laying commences at Guyana National Training Centre L

aying of the artificial turf at the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF’s) National Training Centre at Providence, East Bank Demerara has commenced. This signals the start of a delicate process that would, in the not-too-distant future, see football being played at the facility.

The process commenced last Friday, and is expected to be completed by December 15, 2018.

Grass is being laid by local contractor Nabi Construction Inc. under the supervision of international contractor Greenfields.

This, the nation’s first stateof-the-art football facility, will be the focal point for football activities at all levels of the game. It will play a pivotal role in elevating the standard of Guyana’s football, as it caters for football development among the males and females.

The venue will be equipped with amenities to encourage great-

VACANCIES Pump Attendant- Rubis BelAirWhats app: 680-3863/6240033 House Keeper/ Cook Whats app: 624-0033 Accounts Assistant Whats app: 680-3863 Bill Payment Clerk Whats app: 680-3863 Supervisor for Water Company Whats app: 680-3863

er female participation in football, and will house the headquarters of the GFF. Other aspects of the facility include dormitories, kitchen services, a gym and a pool.

In an invited comment, GFF President Wayne Forde said he is pleased with the way work is progressing at the facility.

“The weather has been good, and work is progressing very well.

The transfer of knowledge that is taking place during this phase of the project will be invaluable as we embark on the construction of similar fields in each of our nine (9) Regional Member Associations (RMAs), over the next three years.”

The vision of the GFF is for nine all-weather facilities to be constructed in each of the nine RMAs. According to the GreenField website, the company is a “specialist in the development, production, installation and maintenance of synthetic sports turf systems.”

Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee…

Organisers requesting compliance with rules

VEHICLES FOR SALE ONE TOYOTA MARK 2 (GX 100) $1,500,000. CONTACT # 615-5646

WANTED One Twin to accompany me overseas. Call 692 8997

NOT RECEIVING YOUR

DAILY & SUNDAY COPIES OF

in your area?

Contact our

Circulation Department on

Phone: 223-7230-1

EXT: 55

21

T

‘Just Call Me Boss’

he first-ever Race of Champions horse racing meet organised by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee will be hosted on Sunday, December 2, at the Port Mourant Turf Club on the Corentyne coast of

East Berbice.

With 5 days remaining for the competition, organisers of the event are already setting things in place as they prepare for smooth sailing. Organisers are asking horse owners and jock-

eys, groomers and trainers to kindly follow the rules, to ensure the day’s proceedings are run in a smooth and orderly fashion.

Organisers are also asking animal owners to notify them of the events in which their animals are participating before race day.

To guarantee everything starts at the specified time, animal owners are asked to ensure their charges are ready for their races. As per international rules, if a jockey cannot be weighed, that jockey will be disqualified; and horses must be saddled and mounted within a ten-minute period.

Billed to commence at noon, the event would include several races, among which is the most anticipated rematch between “Vera’s Finally” and “Just Call Me Boss”.

The meet will consist of 10 races, among which are the following: The 1300 metre event in the C2 & Lower category, which guarantees the winner the cash prize of $1,937,500; and the 1500 metre F Class & Lower event, which has a first prize of $775,000. The other races are also expected to produce exciting outcomes for the packed day.

Entries will be accepted only via entry forms provided by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee.

For more information, interested persons are invited to contact Chandu Ramkisoon on 6249063, 608-9063, or 232-0633; or Alan Padmore on 232-9115, 232-0811, or 232-0657; or Nikita Ross on 662-4668; or Ramnauth on 697-1979.

Cameron heaps praises on Nero and her team for a great tournament

G

reat cricket, massive crowds, top-class music and food. A well-executed event across all three venues… were just some of the things Cricket West Indies President, Dave Cameron pointed out in showing how elated he was for the first stand-alone Women’s World T20 Championship which ended on Saturday Cricket West Indies President Whycliffe “Dave” Cameron

(November 24).

The President is heaping praise on Tournament Director, Jennifer Nero and her team on a well-run series of events.

“We have shown the world our abilities as a cricketing destination on and off the field of play.”

“On behalf of the entire CWI Team, I want to congratulate all the people (operations, technical, marketing, commercial, facilities, security) who participated in the Championship, making it the success it has turned out to be. We also acknowledge and accept the praises from the International Cricket Council (ICC).”

The CWI President would also like to congratulate Australia on winning the title. “Despite the WINDIES Women’s loss in the semi-finals, we are extremely proud of the way the women displayed strength of character and were a joy to watch in the field for every single game.

From all the feedback I have received, the entire Caribbean is proud of the ladies.”

The President was also keen to note the “reaction of the fans from the warm up games to the final” and thinks this set the tone for years to come.

The full report on the Championship will be made public once finalized, the President has promised. (CWI)

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

tuesdAY, november 27, 2018

ICC bids for women’s cricket in Commonwealth Games T

he International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday confirmed it has submitted a bid for the inclusion of T20 women’s cricket into the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham 2022.

David Richardson on ICC’s bid for women’s cricket in Commonwealth Games The bid, which has been made in partnership with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), will see one of the world’s fastest growing women’s team sports apply to become part of the Commonwealth Games family.Cricket has made just one appearance at the Games

previously, with men playing in 1998 in Kuala Lumpa where South Africa stood on top of the podium. The application for inclusion of women’s cricket for Birmingham 2022 is part of the global strategy for cricket to inspire and empower women and girls around the world and to drive greater levels of inclusivity and opportunity throughout the sport.

ICC Chief Executive David R i c h a r d s o n said: “Cricket and the Commonwealth are inextricably linked and almost perfectly aligned with 910 million of cricket’s one bil-

lion plus adult fans from Commonwealth countries.

Creating a new partnership

between women’s cricket and the Commonwealth Games demonstrates the commitment both organisations have to growing women’s sport and delivering greater equality, fairness and opportunity in sport across the Commonwealth.

“Birmingham is the perfect place to launch this partnership as the city shares cricket’s rich and diverse culture and heritage.

23 per cent of the city’s residents have links to cricket playing nations outside the UK, the deep connection between cricket and Birmingham will bring

V-Net/GCA Little Champs Under-13 Cricket…

people together and inspire future generations of players and fans of women’s cricket. If cricket were to be staged in these Games, we know every team competing would be guaranteed ‘home’ support. There’s a ready-made audience and ready-made infrastructure in the local vicinity.

“This partnership has the potential to go way beyond a sporting event that can be enjoyed by hundreds of millions of fans in Birmingham, the UK and the rest of the world. I believe the players who reflect the diversity of this audience will send a powerful message to young wom-

en in Birmingham and beyond about the potential that they can “We would like cricket to lead the way in the Commonwealth in inspiring more young girls to take up sport regardless of their background or culture. There’s a saying that ‘you can’t be it if you can’t see it’ - imagine the impact of millions of young girls around the world watching women’s cricket in the Commonwealth Games and being empowered with the knowledge that they too can play cricket, represent their country and compete on a global stage.’ (ICC)

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

Transport edge DCC by a run to lift title Sizzling action anticipated T

he V-NET/GCA Little Champs Under-13 (25-Over) Cricket competition concluded on Friday evening with Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) losing to Tropical Spring Transport Sports Club (TSTSC) by a one-run margin.

This type of cricket is generally known as the pair’s cricket. It sees batsmen operate in pairs over five overs, and then rotate to another pair to face another five overs. Every wide or no-ball is counted as two runs, and whenever a wicket falls, ten runs are deducted.

Batting first, Transport posted a competitive 2573 off their allocation of 25 overs, with penalties included. Riyad Latif (12) and Alvin Mohabir (14) led the scoring, while Myem Khan bagged 2-13 and Romeo

when final 8 thrash it out T

The winning members of the Tropical Springs Transport Sports Club

Deonarine supported with 1-8. DCC also gifted the opposition 38 welcome extras.

In reply, DCC posted a mammoth 346 - 9 off their allotted 25 overs, with Gabriel Roothkan (13) and Nicholas Samaroo (12) top scoring. Latif picked up 2-7, Dave Mohabir bagged 2-9, and Reyaz Latif claimed 2-10.

Despite DCC’s score, the rules of the tournament state there is a 10-run penalty for each wicket that falls; hence, a deduction of 90 runs from their score left them with 256.

Following the prize giving ceremony, DCC’s R Geenarine was adjudged best bowler of the final with 4-6, while Mohabir was the best batsman with a highest of 64 against GCC. The competition’s best bowler award went to Wavell Allen for his nine wickets, while Jonathan Van Lange of GCC grabbed best batsman with 111 runs. Mohabir returned to secure the tournament’s best all-rounder award as he accumulated 112 runs and took six wickets.

This tournament was co-sponsored by ECO Atlantic, Guyana Trading Company and Cerulean Inc.

he fight to see who will be left standing for a chance to grab a slice of the more than $700,000 prize money on offer begins in earnest tomorrow night when play in this year’s Hamilton Green 9-a-side Inter-Ward/ Village KO Cup resumes at the Den Amstel Community Centre ground on the West Coast of Demerara.

Eight exciting matches will highlight the penultimate day of action, with home team Den Amstel set to headline the proceedings when they clash with Soesdyke in the final game of the night.

Co-ordinator Lennox Arthur, commenting on the tournament to date, said it has gone well, and he expects another night of lively action as teams attempt to position themselves to be in the fray for the finals, set for Sunday, December 2, at the same venue.

“Fans are certain to get their money’s worth, judging from the quality of teams left in the competition; and predicting who will survive tonight’s round is causing headaches among the pundits,” Arthur related.

In the opening encounter, at 18:00hrs, Zeelugt tackles Charlestown, and many feel this game is the perfect start for the night’s proceedings.

This clash will be followed by the game between Sophia and Central Mackenzie, before Mahaica and Mahaicony square off for a place in the next round, not to mention bragging rights.

Goed Fortuin then collide with Wales, before Crane and Sara Lodge take to the field for their matchup.

West Demerara’s Pouderoyen then look to repel the challenge of visiting Newtown Kitty, before Uitvlugt, another team from the West Side, face Timehri.

In the final game of the evening, hosts Den Amstel entertain East Bank Soesdyke, with the home support anticipated to be loud, especially with a spot for the finals at stake.

The coveted first prize of $400,000 and the championship trophy, compliments of the Ministry of Citizenship, must be the focus of all the teams remaining in the competition.

The runner-up will be awarded $200,000 and a trophy through the goodwill of John Fernandes Ltd, while third and fourth place finishers will receive $60,000 and $40,000 respectively, along with the Techno Mills and Courtney Benn Construction Services trophies in that order.

Top finishers will receive hampers, compliments of Ricks & Sari Industries, while the highest goal-scorer will walk away with a Lazy Boy Chair courtesy of A.H&L Kissoon and a dinette set compliment of China Trading. The Most Valuable Player will be awarded a special prize from Techno Mills.

Among the other sponsors on board are: IPA, Alfro Alphonso, Sattaur Gafoor, Ansa McAl, Top Brandz Distributors, MACORP, Starr Computers, Cummings Electrical, Ready Mix, BK International and New Thriving Restaurant.

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesdAY, november 27, 2018

23

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

North Georgetown dominates swimming, Corentyne tops cycling A glimpse of the Under-18 males' race

T

he National Schools Cycling, Swimming, and Track and Field Championships continued on Monday at two locations, where athletes from across the country competed in cycling and swimming events.

When the sun was set and the day’s activities completed, North Georgetown (District 11) and Corentyne (District 6) were the teams rejoicing, as they emerged victorious in the swimming and cycling events respectively.

At the National Aquatic Centre at Liliendaal, young swimmers donned swimsuits and goggles as they got into competition mode. This year’s rivalry was intense but, try as they may, the other 14 districts could not overcome the defending champions.

Little Aleka Persaud has been having an excellent year in the pool. She again dominated her opponents in the Girls 14 and Under category. Representing the East Georgetown district, Persaud copped gold in the 50M freestyle in 28.68s and in the 50

metre backstroke in 34.78s.

Raekwon Noel was also outstanding, with wins in the Boys 14 and Under 50 metre freestyle in 28.31s, and the 50 metre backstroke in 32.65s.

His swim mate Leon Seaton was another shining star in the pool. Representing District 11, Seaton copped wins in the Boys 16 and Under 50 metre freestyle in

25.61s; the 50 metre butterfly in 28.19s, and the 50M backstroke in 30.66s.

Longstanding contender Amy Grant also contributed well to District 11’s win. She took the Girls 18 and Under 50M freestyle in 30.85s, the 50m butterfly in 32.34s and the 100M freestyle in 1.10.05s.

For the overall defending champs, Upper Demerara/

Kwakwani, Nikita Fiedtkou swam circles around her opponents. She took the 100 metre freestyle in 1.04.92s, and the 50 metre freestyle in 29.72s.

In the highly anticipated relays, North Georgetown took wins in the Boys and Girls 200M freestyle to take their winning points to 434. They were followed by Upper Demerara/Kwakwani with 319 points, and third place was copped by East Georgetown with 213 points.

Over at the National Park, the youth riders mounted their bikes for countless laps around the park, which saw keen competition.

Corentyne’s win could mostly be attributed to Ajay Gopilall, David Hicks and Shabina Ramoo, who were outstanding throughout the day. They were joined by their other District 6 athletes, who all contributed significantly to ensuring that at the end of the day, the Berbicians would finish on top for a second consecutive year.

A District 10 rider leads the race

Swimming Official results:

District North Georgetown Upper Demerara/Kwakwani East Georgetown Cuyuni Mazaruni South Georgetown Rupununi Essequibo Coast & Pomeroon North West East Coast District Essequibo Islands West Demerara East Bank Demerara West Berbice Mahdia Corentyne New Amsterdam

Cycling official Results:

District Corentyne Upper Demerara/ Kwakwani New Amsterdam South Georgetown North Georgetown East Coast Demerara West Demerara East Bank Demerara Bartica Potaro Siparuni West Coast Berbice East Georgetown Rupununi District 10, who trailed the winners by just 8 points, were led by Oneal Rose and Abigail Jeffrey, who were in fine form.

Rose won Gold in the 5000 metre Boys’ Open, 800 metres Boys’ Open, and the 1000 metre Boys’ Open races. Jeffrey won the Girls’ 25 kilometre road race on Sunday, added Gold to her name in the 3000 mere girls’ Open and 400 metre Girls’ Open, while finishing second in the 800 metre Girls’ Open.

The day’s action saw some thrilling encounters, especially in the 1500 metre events. First, Denzil Huntley (District 10) edged District 14’s Roy Wilson to cop Gold in the Boys’ Open event,

Points 434 319 213 189 173 132 127 107 63 57 45 9 8 7 5 Points 245 237 130 114 93 78 75 61 42 20 8 -

while District 6’s Roy Wilson had to settle for Bronze.

On the distaff side of the 1500 metre open event, Maria Carrington (District 7) was the surprise package, as she convincingly beat Shabina Ramoo (District 6) to Gold, while District 10’s Crystal Hutson had to settle for Silver.

The National Schools Cycling, Swimming, Track and Field Championships will continue today as the athletes head to Region Three for the track and field events at the Leonora Stadium. Without a doubt the next four days will see the rise of many athletic stars, before the closing ceremony on Friday evening.

Brit says mega fight almost called off – faced problems entering the US

I

n just a few days, Tyson Fury will face Deontay Wilder in a mega fight for the WBC heavyweight title, but has sensationally claimed the bout was almost called off.

Fury began the process of getting himself a US visa, three months after he beat Wladimir Klitcshko in November 2015 to become unified heavyweight champion.

However, having stormed the Barclays Center ring in New York to confront Wilder after the American’s devastating knockout win over Artur Szpilka in January 2016, Fury believes this may have played a part in the authorities’ concerns in granting him access to the States.

“We started this in February 2016. There were

meetings, lots and lots of meetings, at the US embassy,” Fury told the Daily Mail.

“We got through it. But then when I arrived in America they (the immigration officers) took me away to a back room.

Asked a lot of questions and I was strip-searched.

“Why? I don’t really know. I don’t have any criminal record but I still struggled to get the visa. They said they thought I looked a shady character.

There was some talk of what went off when I went to see one of Wilder’s fights in New York and that I might cause a riot.

“As we all know, these people have the right to do whatever they want. If they say it’s Tuesday, it’s Tuesday.

Fight could have been off.

That would have been nice.

But after more than four hours they let me in.”

One person who will not be ringside at the Staples Center on December 1, is Fury’s father John, but this came as no surprise to the 30-year-old.

“There was never any chance of my father coming here,” Fury added. “Not with his criminal record. He has a section 18 on his record and he knows that’s too serious for him to be allowed in.

“So he didn’t even think about trying for a visa. No point. I don’t know why there was suddenly a story about me being upset. We knew the position all along.”

Despite being the underdog, so confident is Fury, he has said he will continue to box in the US and become the

The confrontation. The Gypsy King has no criminal record, but said immigration officers thought he looked a ‘shady character’ and strip searched him and questioned him for hours

country’s headline attraction.

“After I win the WBC belt I will be staying here. You won’t

see me fighting in England again. You heard it here first.

Once I beat Wilder I will be

the next big pay-per-view star in America, the land of opportunity.” (Talk Sport)

tuesdAY, november 27, 2018

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

guyanatimesgy.com

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

North Georgetown dominates swimming, Corentyne tops cycling Page 23

The North Georgetown contingent pose for a photo while celebrating their retention of the swim title

Gone are those days: West Indies v Test cricket Page 20

Artificial turf laying commences at Guyana National Training Centre

Page 21

– 7 series won, 4 drawn and 18 lost in 29 Test series from 2010 to 2018

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - lezas@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.