Guyana times september 26, 2017

CJIA arrivals skyrocket during July-August P10

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

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 3343

Tuesday, September 26, 2017

PRICE

New Demerara River bridge

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Minister Patterson falsely implicates IDB again!

Govt keeps Houston residents in dark ...with eviction only months away

Parika labourer sets home on fire

P9

...as investigations reveal financial institution not funding Linden Bridge study

Page 13

Page 2

$80 vat included

Deputy P12 Crime Chief reassigned to admin duties

CANU intercepts cocaine-laced hammocks Page 7

Freeman Street robbery

…hunting Guyhoc Park woman

President meets with UN Secretary General

Bandit confesses to shooting P2 brothers

…surviving brothers still hospitalised

Berbice P10 husband gets 20 years for killing wife

Guyana needs Sex Offenders Registry – activist P10

As the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly winds down on Monday, President David Granger had several engagements with high-ranking officials from a number of international organisations, including the UN Secretary General António Guterres. President Granger exchanges a handshake with the United Nations Secretary General Guterres

OAS anticorruption review team visits Guyana – Opposition welcomes on-site visit Page 3

Dynamic Airways to pull out of Guyana operations

Page 7

…company stops selling tickets

Guyana exports 7500 tonnes rice to Cuba P12

2 news

tuesDAY, september 26, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Parika labourer sets home on fire tentional.

“Me father been lie down on de bed a sleep and de lamp went next to he foot and he been drunk and he mussy get up fuh go outside or something and kick the lamp and the lamp fall down and blaze up with the fire,” the daughter related.

Moreover, the young woman went on to say, “By the time he coulda guh fuh do anything, he get confused and he drink de poison. He drink Gramoxone.”

Persaud’s wife told this

The remains of the Parika Backdam home

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Parika labourer is now battling for his life at the West Demerara Regional Hospital after he ingested poison following a fire, which completely gutted his home in the wee hours of Monday.

The hospitalised man has been identified as 49-year-old Mohan Persaud of Parika Backdam, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

According to information reaching Guyana Times, the two-storey wooden building

confrontation between him and his wife. The dispute ended with the labourer threatening his wife, saying, “‘I will teach you a lesson’,” relatives reported.

Later that evening, the woman was awakened by the scent of smoke and subsequently discovered that the house was on fire. The family managed to escape the inferno before their house was burnt to the ground. It was then that the labourer indicated that he had consumed

The house on fire

went up in flames sometime after midnight at the hands of Persaud, who is allegedly a known drunkard.

Reports are Persaud returned home from work on Sunday in an intoxicated state, which resulted in a

the poison.

However, while speaking to this publication at the hospital, the eldest daughter of the family, Shivanie Persaud, relayed that it was all an accident and as such, the destruction was not in-

Hospitalised: Mohan Persaud

newspaper that at the time of the incident, she was staying at a sister-in-law next door. Nevertheless, the woman joined her daughter in explaining what occurred after the fire ignited. “By the time anybody could do anything, the house done burn down already. They couldn’t save nothing or do nothing. They had to run to save themselves,” the duo highlighted.

Having consumed the poisonous substance, Persaud was rushed to the West Demerara medical in-

stitution where he remains in critical condition.

Meanwhile, Police Divisional Commander Leslie James told Guyana Times that based on investigations, Persaud indeed set his home alight. On that note, Police are currently guarding the hospitalised man as he is facing a possible charge of arson.

In light of the gutting of their home of more than 20 years, family members are now forced to seek refuge at relatives nearby.

Freeman Street robbery

Bandit confesses to shooting brothers

…surviving brothers still hospitalised

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hree persons from East La Penitence, Georgetown have been taken into custody in connection with the Sunday morning robbery at Lot 194 Freeman Street, East La Penitence that resulted in the death of Berbice businessman Fazal Saheed.

One of these men has since confessed to the crime, while the other two are assisting with Police investigations.

Charges are expected to be laid soon, according to information.

A post-mortem conducted on Fazal Saheed showed that he died as a result of haemorrhage due to multiple gunshot wounds. The businessman had been a manufacturer of sauces and spices. He leaves to mourn his wife and son.

Meanwhile, his brothers: Shalim Saheed, 53, of the United States of America and Tallim Saheed, 50, of

Dead: Fazal Saheed

Injured: Tallim Saheed

Injured: Shalim Saheed

Toronto, Canada, remain warded at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), where they are receiving medical attention. Shalim Saheed is still listed as critical.

Tallim Saheed was shot in the shoulder, with the bullet exiting under his armpit, and Shalim Saheed had several gunshot wounds to his stomach.

Along with several other relatives, Tallim and Shalim Saheed had arrived in Guyana from the US and

Canada for the first death anniversary memorial service of their late father. It is believed that the house was targeted because of the influx of foreigners.

According to Police, two masked men, one armed with a handgun, had carried out the attack.

Investigations have so far revealed that the bandits gained access into the house via a door that was left open, and they surprised their victims, who were in the living room area. They then

relieved them of their jewellery, and discharged several rounds at the brothers before fleeing the scene.

The Police were then alerted, and the victims were rushed to the GPHC, where Fazal was pronounced dead on arrival, Talim was treated and warded, while Shalim had to undergo emergency surgery, and is listed as critical.

The Police have retrieved several spent shells at the scene, and investigations are ongoing.

news

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tuesDAY, september 26, 2017 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, September 26 – 08:30h-10:00h and Wednesday, September 27 – 09:00h-10:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, September 26 – 07:45h-09:15h and Wednesday, September 27 – 08:15h-09:45h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Thundery showers followed by heavy rain showers can be expected, with sunshine in the late afternoon hours. Partly cloudy skies and thundery showers are expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Ranging from Easterly to East North-easterly between 1.78 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 07:59h and 20:12h reaching a maximum height of 2.36 metres at each scheduled high tide.

Low Tide: 13:47h reaching a minimum height of 0.92 metre.

SATURDAY, September 23, 2017

LOTTERY NUMBERS N 06 10 11 19 21 24 18 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2017

DAILY MILLIONS 05 17 21 24 26 LUCKY 3 1 2 8 Afternoon Draw

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5

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

07 09 11 12 13 14 18 DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

OAS anti-corruption review team visits Guyana

– Opposition welcomes on-site visit

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he People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Parliamentary Opposition has welcomed the on-site team from the Organisation of American States (OAS) Anti-Corruption Mechanism (Follow up Mechanism for the Implementation of the Inter-American Convention Against CorruptionMESICIC) that is currently in Guyana.

The team’s on-site visit (from September 25-27, 2017) is part of the process of the Fifth Round Review of Guyana under the Convention.

“We, in the Parliamentary Opposition, are proud that Guyana ratified the InterAmerican Convention Against Corruption in December 2000, and became a State Party to the MESICIC in June 2002,” a statement from the Office of Leader of the Opposition said Monday evening.

It pointed out that this Convention is the first and oldest anti-corruption convention and one with an enormous institutional experience in moving countries progressively forward in developing anti-corruption frameworks and greater transparency and accountability.

“Guyana’s first review was held in 2006, and, Guyana has been reviewed and its reports adopted through four Rounds of Review ending in March 21, 2014,” the Opposition Leader’s Office pointed out.

In preparation for the last review, Guyana was the first Caribbean country to formally indicate its acceptance of an on-site visit from the MESICIC, which was held from October 8 to 13, 2013 at which civil society bodies participated and made their views candidly known. The Transparency Institute of Guyana, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Guyana, the Guyana Women Lawyers Association, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Consultative Association of Guyanese Industry, and the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana participated.

Guyana on February 6, 2015, again formally indicated its acceptance of a second on-site visit for the Fifth Round Review scheduled for 2017.

“We are concerned and surprised that there has been no public announcement by the Government or the Guyana Expert sitting on the MESICIC, Aubrey Retemyer, Major (retired), Chief Executive Officer of the controversial, politically influenced State Assets Recovery Agency, about the on-site visit as is customary and required by the MESICIC,” the Opposition PPP/C stated.

“Of note is that this

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

Round will focus on Article 111 (paragraph 3 and 12) as well as follow up on recommendations made in the Second Round and progressively reported on up to the Fourth Round. These recommendations continue to be significant and important to Guyana, more particularly, due to developments that have been emerging in Guyana over the last 27 months with the change of Government,” the Opposition pointed out.

It said these recommendations include: “SYSTEMS OF GOVERNMENT HIRING AND PROCUREMENT OF GOODS AND SERVICES (ARTICLE III (5) OF THE CONVENTION) 1.1. Government hiring systems – Establish, maintain and strengthen the systems of Government hiring of public servants, when applicable, that assure the openness, equity and efficiency of such

systems…”

The PPP/C Opposition said “the dismissal of 1972 Amerindian (Indigenous) Community Service Officers in July 2015, and over a thousand public servants based on ethno-political discrimination over the last 26 months violates the rights and provisions of the Guyana Constitution and the Public Service Rules. In contrast, 1000 persons have been hired into the public service on contract by 2016 February with little regard for the Public Service Rules, the majority are political op-

eratives and over the retirement age. A further 1000 were added by mid-2017 under the same conditions. The recent establishment of the Bertram Collins College of the Public Service has become another institution to enforce Government control of the hiring and upward mobility of public servants.”

Furthermore, the PPP/C Opposition said instances of executive interference, “too numerous to enumerate here, in all three of the constitutionally protected Service Commissions – Public, Police and Judicial – is alarming and a gross violation of the Constitution”.

It pointed out that the Chairman of the Public Service Commission, an appointed member of the Commission, was removed both as Chairman and member in violation of the Constitution. The Public Service Commission appointed in 2014 was reduced to three members and then expired on September 1, 2017.

Four judicial officers recommended by the Judicial Service Commission in April 2016 to the President for appointment in accordance with the Constitution were not appointed until a year later, and only after public pressure.

Turn to page 13

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tuesday, September 26, 2017

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

Transforming fear into hope

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s conflagration engulfs countries around the world -- creating an endless stream of hopeless, homeless refugees; creating orphans and widows by the billions, and destroying capacities for development in nation states -- one is forced to recognise that Man’s inhumanity to Man is an ever-evolving phenomenon, with expanding parameters of conflict location putting at peril the survival of mankind on Planet Earth.

A few days ago, on September 21, the world observed International Day of Peace. The United Nations General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres posits: “In times of insecurity, communities that look different become convenient scapegoats…We must resist cynical efforts to divide communities and portray neighbours as ‘the other’.

Discrimination diminishes us all. It prevents people — and societies — from achieving their full potential.”

He added, “Together, let us stand up against bigotry, and for human rights. Together, let us build bridges. Together, let us transform fear into hope.”

The theme for 2017 is “Together for Peace: Respect, Safety and Dignity for All.” The United Nations, comprising 193 member states; the private sector, civil society, academic institutions and individual citizens have all bonded in a global partnership initiated during the United Nations Summit for Refugees and Migrants, on 19th September 2016, with the goal of bringing people -- especially the oppressed, disadvantaged and vulnerable -- together as members of the human family.

This concept, identifying the world as one global human village, was propagated by Guyana’s Executive President, the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan, in its UN-adopted “New Global Human Order”. His fulminations espoused the formulation and implementation of a new world dispensation wherein access to the world’s bounties should be shared in equal measure so that all mankind could be provided enough resources to ensure poverty and want could eventually be eradicated from the world.

The Guyana Peace Council (GPC), established by the former administration, urged, in its message to commemorate the UN ‘International Day of Peace’, that all peace loving forces in Guyana and the world at large recommit themselves to the cause of peace and disarmament, in particular nuclear disarmament.

The Council iterated: “We are living in dangerous times, made even worse by the buildup of military hardware and weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear weapons. Such military buildup puts the whole of humanity at risk, and could potentially bring an end to human civilization.

“The true cost of military buildup is not simply the actual money spent on them, but the sacrificed alternative in terms of human development and the elimination of poverty, hunger and ignorance among a significant segment of the world’s population. The only beneficiaries of wars and conflicts are the military-industrial complex which rakes in billions in profits at the expense of human misery.”

The Guyana Peace Council also called on the Guyana Government to stand up and be counted on the side of peace in the context of the Caribbean being a zone of peace.

Peace is a natural prerequisite to human development that leads to economic growth of nations; and, if the leadership is grounded in democratic principles, eventual individual, societal and national prosperity.

Guyana is in a state of flux, and our nation can self-destruct through our human engagements, or lack of same. We no longer, in a large measure, trust each other as our foreparents once did; and unless, as a nation, we begin to live by, and honour the concepts enshrined in, our National Motto, we will forever exist on the precipice of national conflagration.

God gifted to us a Paradise wherein we can live free from fear of natural devastating occurrences, such as tsunamis, hurricanes, volcanoes, tornadoes et al, yet we are squandering our blessings with rancorous behaviour toward each other. It is time to commit ourselves to the greater good, and espouse unity and humanity, as opposed to all that divides us. That is the only recipe for our personal and national growth and upward mobility.

Hurricane Maria aftermath in Dominica Damaged homes from Hurricane Maria are shown in this aerial photo over the island of Dominica (Courtesy Nigel R Browne/Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency/Regional Security System/Handout via Reuters)

Columnist should be sanctioned Dear Editor, Most days I take a glimpse of what Frederick Kissoon says though everything is taken with a grain of salt. I never expected Kissoon would stoop so low and pen that 09-24-17 column, “Context rules life Ms Nicholas-Garrett”.

Kissoon has been known to exaggerate, twist and manipulate stories so that he can look good in the right light. (A case in point is his story about Dr Dennis Leblanc’s visit to Guyana.

I exposed Kissoon’s lies in my KN letter after engaging with some cursory research about Dr Leblanc. The medical doctor sought me out and thanked me for giving an accurate picture of his mission and perception of Guyana).

To a degree, Kissoon is right about his view that “context is everything in life” – especially when it comes to racial sensitivities. Most blacks of the United States, for example, are quite divid-

ed on the use of the N-word; a simple Google search will turn up umpteen articles on the subject. Some argue it is okay to use the term – depending on who says it to whom, when, where, tone of voice, and so on; in other words, it depends on the context. Some vehemently argue that it is okay for Blacks and Latinos to use the term whereas it is ‘nono’ if a white person utters it on their lips.

It is downright despicable for Kissoon to defend a senior Government worker, Lloyda Nicholas-Garrett, for her racial tirades –- especially since she works in the Office of the President.

The columnist should be sanctioned for that missive since it gives tacit approval for office (or any) worker to cascade racial slurs.

Defending racial slurs is unpardonable at its worst and repugnant at its best, for it sends the wrong message to the Guyanese people when

they are in the throes of racial insecurities. In a highly charged racial atmosphere as in Guyana, there should be zero tolerance for racial harangues – whether that is directed to fellow workers or to the public. The hallowed Office of the President ought to be the touchstone on how Guyanese should behave towards each other.

The incident brings back a memory of an episode that took place in 2003. I was in the process of organising a show for a foreign artiste at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) when I heard one of the staff howling at the top of her voice about “coolie people” and “black people”.

These terms in themselves could be very harmless or harmful; it depends on the context of what was spoken.

Suffice it to say that that incident was a clear case of the woman spewing her racial rant – directed at me. Her tone of voice, her emphasis, her stares and her anger

told the whole story – even though it was the first time we encountered each other.

Being a target of racial hatred was bad enough.

What really hurt was where and when this hatred was unfurled. It took place at the NCC – which was apparently built by Indian immigration fund money. My blood was boiling at the thought that I was a racial target at an institution where my fore-parents paid with their sweat, blood, and tears to build.

Again, it all comes down to context. Some will go to the depths of any sleaze hole to punctuate the frame of reference so that the writer could look good – as in the Dr Leblanc citation. Many are aware that certain columnists will stretch to the abyss, if necessary, so as to retain their fan base. Pity!

Sincerely, Devanand Bhagwan Brampton, ON, Canada

Whatever happened to alternative sentencing?

Dear Editor, A young man in Anna Regina was recently sentenced to three years’ imprisonment for smashing the glass –windshield, windows – of a vehicle belonging to a family member. The said member reported him to the Police and he was charged for the offence.

He will likely spend close to three years as a guest of the State unless family members retain a lawyer and appeal the case. Even so, there is no guarantee that the verdict will change. In prison, he will live off taxpayers’ monies, languishing without working to earn his keep.

Can Guyana afford this scenario in already overcrowd-

ed, volatile prisons?

Though I do not want to second-guess the learned judge who sentenced the young man, I would like to know if sentencing in our judicial system does not cater for alternative punitive actions. Could not other appropriate options be applied?

What about: 1. 100 hours of supervised community service – half a day (from 8 -12) until the time is completed. He can clean the community of ubiquitous garbage and tall grass, PLUS 2. A fine of $200, 000, half of which goes to the State and the other half to the owner of the damaged vehicle. He can work in the afternoons to ful-

fil this, PLUS 3. A bond to keep the peace for several years and be law-abiding, PLUS 4. Mandatory counselling for a specific amount of hours.

Editor, similar penalties can be given to others such as the young man who was also sentenced to three years in prison for stealing a cell phone. There are vast discrepancies in sentencing, as if there are no guidelines. A worker in Region Two was given 40 hours of community service for slapping a regional councillor three times.

Compare this to three years for breaking vehicular glass.

Yes, I agree that a clear and strong message have to

be sent to offenders, but jail sentences instead of alternative sentences do not prevent crimes such as spontaneous crimes of passion and theft when the opportunity exists for some individuals.

Editor, in light of, and against the background of, two recent prison riots that caused deaths, destruction and escaping, it is high time that we try to reduce overcrowded prisons with inadequate facilities.

Alternative sanctions/ penalties can be the solution, even if partially so.

Sincerely, Karan Chand Region Two Resident

guyanatimesgy.com

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

Coalition Govt should audit the Prison Service Dear Editor, I write this letter out of concern for what I believe to be a demonstration of un-professional and self-serving behaviour, on the part of Guyana’s Director of Prisons, Gladwin Samuels, when he answered questions from representatives of the local media on the reasons for the prisoners’ protest on September 19, 2017.

The Director stated, “The escapees wanted steak for breakfast and it was not available.” He was referring to the recent protest by some inmates in the Camp Street Prison who were protesting against the porridge served to them for breakfast. It is my opinion that his comments on this matter were irresponsible. His propagandising was designed to influence public opinion against

the protesting prisoners.

This approach is counterproductive to improving relations between inmates and officers – apparently this is not the goal of the prison administration. Mr Samuels is fully aware that his tenure as Head of the Guyana Prisons Service has attracted several negative reports from various quarters, including incarcerated prisoners and Prison Officers he supervises. It was as a result of the pressure and public scrutiny he is under that he made this most asinine and irresponsible statement when he gave the impression that the prisoners wanted steak for breakfast.

My concern resides in the fact that someone, who – over the years of his close relationship with the Prison Service like Samuels has

had – can, and very deliberately so, misrepresent information to the public with the intention of deflecting from himself, responsibility for the breakdown in the administration of the prison services and the resulting consequences. I am contending here that the incident on September 19, 2017 cannot be viewed in isolation. It has to be seen in the context of the overall general crisis existing in the prisons. The administrators of the prisons, of which Samuels is a key player, are pivotal to what is taking place and are not blameless. Ridiculous statements like the one Samuels is credited with having made cannot, and will not, absolve him and those other persons who are responsible for the running of the prisons from some of the blame that has

led to the chaos within the prison system.

I speak here as a person, who in the 1980s served a three-year sentence both in the Georgetown and Mazaruni Prisons. In the period of my incarceration, inmates were never given “steak” for breakfast – not even on important celebratory days like Independence, Republic and Christmas Day. I challenge Mr Samuels to name one occasion, in his years of experience in the Prison Service when steak was served as breakfast to prisoners. I have for political and personal reasons over the years been paying attention to what happens in this country’s prison system and have never heard of an improvement in the conditions of life in the prison that has seen prisoners being treat-

ed with a steak meal breakfast in recognition of a special occasion. In fact, it is well known that the meals prisoners are sometimes fed with are unfit for human consumption. Mr Samuels must be aware of allegations which are levelled at prison officers, including some, high up in the chain of command, of stealing and carrying out of the prisons – for use in their homes – the dietary supplements that have been purchased for the preparation of meals for the prisoners.

I am saying here that Prisons Director Gladwin Samuels is playing politics with the prisoners’ lives, welfare and well-being, and also those of prison officers who work in the prisons. The situation in Guyana’s prisons demands an intense, systemic

investigation so that the political directorate can come to grips with what is taking place thereby allowing it to make the required changes, which would cater for an improvement in the overall administration of the prisons.

The recent disruptions in the prisons, including the massive fires and the consequential loss in human lives and property are clear indicators that there are serious problems within the system that can no longer be ignored.

I, therefore, want to use this opportunity to call on the coalition Government to, as a matter of urgency, put in place the mechanism for the systemic audit of the prisons before the situation worsens.

Sincerely, Tacuma Ogunseye

Mr Boodram should refrain from stifling my voice Dear Editor, My recent letters on suicide generated two responses entitled: “The suicide rate reduction is real,” and “It is the walk, not the talk that makes the critical difference”, from Mr Annand Boodram, the Executive Director of The Caribbean Voice (TCV). Mr Boodram’s letters aim to suppress my insights and to inflate his contributions on the suicide crisis. And he achieves his goals by dangerously fabricating stories which need to be debunked if a genuine decline in the suicide rate is to be realised.

Moreover, Mr Boodram’s behaviour exemplifies a wider problem which generates unbearable stress in boosting the suicide rate.

A clear case of how Mr Boodram is out to suppress my voice rests on the fact that he made false accusations that my original letter contains inaccuracies and oversights which were corrected by TCV. First of all, my original letter contained zero inaccuracies and second of all, how can TCV correct inaccuracies when there were none? I am sorry to say that Mr Boodram’s claims are obviously fiction. Due to such disrespect, I do not see how I can accept Mr Boodram’s invitation to be a part of TCV. Unlike Mr Boodram and most of the TCV members, I hold several advanced degrees in psychology and the neuroscience-related field at the doctorate level in addition to years of research experience. Such training has enabled me to map the players within the suicide dynamics. I am confident that my insights conveyed in my original letter are accurate and pivotal to the understanding of suicide in Guyana. Mr Boodram should refrain from stifling

my voice and give me a fair strangely claims that my chance. To this end, I chal- ideas run counter to the lenge him to provide specif- complete picture on suicide ic examples of the inaccura- in Guyana. Mr Boodram cies and oversights he talks has got to be lacking knowlabout. I guarantee he can’t edge. He is unable to syscome up with any because tematically fill in the dethey never existed. tails in my proposal and I am confident that I build on it in taking it furhave outlined a circuit ther. Mr Boodram needs which shows how stress to know that I am trained influences suicide in my to convey complex ideas original letter and this as concisely as possible is also captioned here. and I am proud of how elHowever, Mr Boodram egantly I have done this wrongly criticised my in- in my original letter. This sights due to his lack of is what scientists do. My knowledge. Surely, such a unfortunate experience circuit is fundamental and it with Mr Boodram is remihas got to be the prevailing niscent of a wider problem explanation on suicide in where non-professionals this country. Mr Boodram take control and destroy this

country. Mr Boodram casts himself as a destructive person who has the gall to stifle my voice even though I have the required academic foundation to make pivotal contributions. Mr Boodram needs to know that important solutions come through

fundamental ideas like mine and a useful walk depends on such ideas.

Definitely, Mr Boodram needs to refocus his talk and walk by giving stress centre-stage attention. Mr Boodram needs to know that copycatting is

only a minuscule piece of the suicide dynamic when considering how stress rewires the brain in multiple ways in eliciting suicidal behaviours.

Sincerely, Dr Annie Baliram

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Foundation

Size matters

– advice for teaching large classes Continued from Monday

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t’s hard to imagine someone intentionally hurting a child. Yet millions children are reported abused every year. And these are only the reported incidents of child abuse — many more cases are unreported and undetected, often because children are afraid to tell somebody who can help.

Most of the time, children know their abusers and the abuse happens in the home.

This makes it difficult for children to speak up. They may feel trapped by the affection they feel for their abusers or fearful of the power the abusers have over them — so they stay silent. That’s why it’s especially important to be able to recognize the signs of child abuse.

What is child abuse?

Child abuse happens when a parent or other adult causes serious physical or emotional harm to a child.

In the United States, the laws defining what constitutes child abuse vary from state to state, but generally speaking, child abuse can take these forms: • physical abuse • sexual abuse neglect and abandonment • • emotional or psychological abuse The most serious cases of child abuse can end in death. Those who survive may suf-

fer emotional scars that can last long after the physical bruises have healed. Children who are abused are more likely to have problems building and maintaining relationships throughout their lives. They’re also more likely to have low self-esteem, depression, thoughts of suicide, and other mental health i s sues.

Physical abuse

When people think of child abuse, their first thought probably is of physical abuse — such as striking, kicking, or shaking a child.

Physical abuse can also include: • tying a child up • intentionally burning a child or scalding a child with hot water • throwing an object at a child or using an object to beat a child starving a child or failing to provide a • child with food Abusive head trauma, or shaken baby syndrome, is a specific form of physical abuse. It’s the leading cause of death in child abuse cases in the U.S. Most incidents last just a few seconds, but that’s enough time to cause brain damage or even kill a baby. (kidshealth.org)

By Deborah J Cohan, PhD

We know that anonymity poses a great risk for students already in jeopardy academically and psychosocially, and by doing everything to immediately set the tone that we are collectively reducing anonymity is a worthwhile and important, albeit ambitious, endeavour.

In attempting to get to know my students as learners and human beings with their own interests, hopes, fears, dreams, and passions, I also post a questionnaire electronically that I ask students to complete, print out and submit to me in class.

Questions range from asking about their course schedule that semester to whether they hold a job outside school or have caregiving responsibilities for elderly or ill relatives or children. I also ask about their favourite books, music, and movies, as well as social problems that concern them.

And I always ask what I can do to be the best teacher for them –about their learning style and personality and what I should be aware of that might make learning about the material more

challenging or painful for them. It is here that I often find out about mental-health issues, body image issues, or identity issues; whether they have experienced a history of sexual and domestic violence or extreme poverty; or if they have parents who are divorcing, are addicted, have died, or are in prison.

Some of the responses break my heart, but they are all informative.

Generating class discussion

All these efforts to reduce anonymity are paramount for cultivating the conditions necessary to generate meaningful and impactful class discussion. I have never taken the position that the only way to have discussions in large classes is to break everyone into small groups. I do that, for sure, and I also assign a small group project and presentation for the end of the semester for them to teach their peers.

But I also create possibilities for discussion among all the students. In some ways, if you were to observe me, you might think my class resembles a talk show: I physically move around the room and communicate from the back of it, as well, generating conversations with people and getting the students to talk with one another.

Having opportunities for students to speak in front of dozens of their peers becomes excellent practice for when they will have to do this during their end-of-semester presentation. Some students also remark that my classes become interdisciplinary experiences that dovetail with public speaking classes, for example.

I frequently assign short in-class and out-of-class writings and collect them and read parts of them aloud anonymously so people have the opportunity to hear everyone; in this way, all voices in the room become audible, especially amid the most controversial topics in the course. It also becomes a great opportunity for the quietest students to be heard and for the frequently vocal participants to listen closely to their classmates. Sometimes, I have asked students to anonymously write responses in class to a guest speaker or film or to pose discus-

sion questions for the class.

I have circulated a basket where people put in comments and then take one to read aloud that is not theirs.

It is powerful when students hear their work being read aloud by others.

Cultivating connections

I routinely receive emotionally intense emails from some students grappling on personal and societal levels with what we are learning, and I have occasionally asked permission from them to read aloud anonymously the content from the message.

The group project that I assign has also led to student involvement on speaker panels that I host in class and at evening events. A few years ago, another young man was part of a group investigating sociological aspects of fatherhood, and he spoke about helping his mother escape a lethal domestic violence situation.

Since that moment, I have regularly invited him to speak at my classes on the effects of domestic violence on children, and he has spoken passionately and convincingly, serving as a true peer mentor—reinforcing the importance of bystander intervention and an alternative to toxic masculinity. He went on to become the president of the student body, where he continues as a role model.

At a recent conference, I was speaking with a colleague relatively new to teaching who expressed a lot of angst about her upcoming schedule with a large class.

Another woman who was part of the conversation suggested she try things like clickers. Others assumed they had to give up on discussions altogether and resort to traditional lectures.

The heart of artful, transformative pedagogy is to connect with students and to create an atmosphere in which they can engage with one another in stimulating ideas. That happens when we honour and retain the authenticity and integrity of the methods that are distinctly ours as teachers.

It may mean that we need to simultaneously think about size but not fixate on it, allowing it to help us consider new ways of being and knowing in the classroom.

(Excerpted from psychplogytoday.com)

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tuesDay, September 26, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

CANU intercepts cocaine-laced hammocks …hunting Guyhoc Park woman

The suspect, Tiffini Collison

T

he Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) is on the hunt for a mother of one who attempted to ship four hammocks laced with cocaine to the United States of America.

Based on information received, the woman, Tiffini Collison, 26, of Lot F 21 Samaan Street, Guyhoc Park Georgetown, reportedly used an international courier ser-

The cocaine-laced hammocks

vice to ship the hammocks sometime last week.

However, on Thursday last, the package was intercepted by ranks of the drug enforcement unit at the Eugene F Correia International Airport during routine checks of cargo outgoing to the US. CANU, in a statement, noted that several ranks have

visited the home of the suspected cocaine shipper on several occasions, but was never able to locate her. In addition, she allegedly cannot be reached by close family members or friends.

The drug enforcement unit is asking anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspect to con-

Dynamic Airways to pull out of Guyana operations …company stops selling tickets

F

aced with bankruptcy and lawsuits which could force it to sell, Dynamic Airways is now in the process of preparing to pull out of the local aviation sector.

According to local representative for the airline, Captain Gerry Gouveia, Dynamic is currently slowing down its operations, and has stopped selling tickets.

“They are slowing down the operations as of this time. In another couple of days, I will know for sure what is happening. They have not been selling any tickets, but we are examining the situation. When I know for sure by Dynamic, I will let the public know,” Gouveia told this newspaper.

Gouveia has revealed plans to meet with officials of the USbased company to determine future plans. A number of travel agencies recently voiced concerns over the cancellation of all Dynamic flights for the remainder of the year.

After investigations, it was revealed that the airline is planning to suspend operations

soon. However, it is yet to inform the public what it intends to do regarding those passengers who have already booked flights with them.

Dynamic had, earlier this year, announced that it had filed for bankruptcy with the United States Bankruptcy Court. It had noted that it would continue operations as normal.

The voluntary Chapter 11 petition was filed by Dynamic Airways with the United States Bankruptcy Court in the Middle District of North Carolina. According to the United States Courts website, this chapter of the Bankruptcy Code generally provides for reorganisation. Chapter 11 allows a debtor to propose a plan of reorganisation to keep its business alive and pay creditors over time. This includes the

lawsuits from Hajj flights that Dynamic operated in 2014 for Air India, and an arbitration award against Dynamic Intl., finding that the airline was in breach of contract by failing to pay commissions to BKP Enterprises in connection with the Hajj flights.

Just a month after filing for bankruptcy, one of the airline’s creditors had moved to the courts to force the airline to liquidate its assists after Dynamic owed some US$1.19 million.

The creditor, PMC Aviation LLC of Greensboro, claimed in its motion for liquidation that Dynamic was suffering from millions of dollars of continuing losses, and that the debtor (airline) had been grossly mismanaged. Back in 2014, the airline had suspended its operation for four months.

tact them on telephone number 226-0431.

There have, in the past, been attempts to smuggle cocaine out of Guyana by the most creative and innovative ways.

Some attempted to do so in fish, achar, fish feed, milk powder, and in pastries among other means; and those attempts

have resulted in several persons being charged, and either remanded to prison or sentenced and fined.

Following the interceptions, the drug enforcement unit has boosted its surveillance at Guyana’s main ports of entry, including the Cheddi Jagan International

Airport, the Eugene F Correia International Airport, and the wharves.

With new measures in place, would-be cocaine traffickers are finding more creative ways to ship the narcotic out of Guyana -- a country categorised as a major trans-shipment point.

8 NEWS

tuesday, September 26, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Herstelling accident

Minibus driver charged for pensioner’s death

T

he allegedly ‘drunk’ minibus driver involved in the Herstelling public road accident which claimed the life of Basil Rambarran, an elderly pedal cyclist, was on Monday released on $500,000 bail after his arraignment before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Seekumar Singh of Soesdyke Back Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD), who was represented by defence attorney Lloyd Conway, pleaded not guilty to the offence, which alleged that on September 19, 2017 he drove minibus BLL 3749 in a man-

Seekumar Singh was released on $500,000 bail

ner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Rambarran.

Reports reaching this publication indicate that the accident occurred at about 16:45h on the day in question, as Rambarran was heading home from work. According to Police reports, the minibus driver was heading towards Timehri when the cyclist crossed the road in the path of the oncoming minibus and the collision resulted.

Singh was subsequently arrested when he failed a breathalyser test that found in excess of the legal limit of alcohol on his breath.

The fallen cyclist had succumbed to multiple injuries, according to a post mortem report.

Rambarran leaves to mourn his common-law wife, two daughters and grandchildren, among other relatives and friends.

Singh was placed on bail in the sum of $500,000 and ordered to return to court on October 13, 2017 for continuation of this case, before appearing in another court to answer to a traffic charge of driving whilst having consumed more than the legal limit of alcohol.

However, that charge was withdrawn and discontinued against the defendant when the magistrate found the particulars to be ambiguous. (Paula Gomes)

2 charged for cocaine utensil, smoking weed

M

ark Gravesande muttered a series of inaudible words as he sought to explain how he had come to be busted

by Police with the pipe on September 20, 2017 at Cross Street in Werk-en-Rust Georgetown, during his appearance before Magistrate Judy Latchman on Monday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Following his explanation, the presiding magistrate informed him that the court had recorded a notguilty plea on his behalf, to which he posed no objection.

The Prosecution is contending that the 30-year-old

Mark Gravesande

market labourer of Timehri, East Bank Demerara was found by Police with the co-

caine-smoking utensil.

Prosecutor Shawn Gonsalves disclosed that the matter was not ready for hearing in the absence of the analyst’s certificate, which is yet outstanding, and the case was adjourned to be heard on October 16.

Meanwhile, Noel Mansfield, 40, a single parent of five, was granted $20,000 bail for allegedly smoking cannabis after he pleaded for the compassion of the magistrate by indicating that he toils at the Stabroek Market as a vendor to provide for his schoolage children.

Mansfield further disclosed that he has an ongoing matter before another magistrate at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, upon

which Prosecutor Gonsalves based his grounds for objecting to bail, attesting that the accused had committed the offence whilst on bail for the latter case of similar nature (trafficking in narcotics).

The father of five maintained his innocence in relation to the latter matter, contending that the alleged bags of marijuana were found next to his stall at the market.

“Should you grant me bail, I promise to come to court every time,” Mansfield pleaded, even requesting the magistrate to consult with Magistrate Dylan Bess, who presides over the trafficking case.

He was instructed to return to court on October 18, 2017.

Vendor charged for killing wife

Randolph Tahal

A

vegetable vendor was on Monday remanded to prison for allegedly killing his wife at their New Amsterdam home in Berbice.

Randolph Tahal, 56, was slapped with the indictable charge, which stated that between September 7 and

September 9 at Smithfield, New Amsterdam, he murdered Janette Tahal.

Randolph Tahal is being represented by Attorney-atLaw Charrandas Persaud.

Magistrate Alex Moore has remanded him to prison, and the case will continue on October 11.

Reports are that the accused and his wife had an argument at their Lot 95 Smithfield home when he allegedly lashed her with a piece of wood several times.

The woman was taken in a semi-conscious state to the New Amsterdam Hospital, where she was stabilized and transferred to the Georgetown Hospital.

Meanwhile, a post-mortem examination revealed that death resulted from a fractured skull.

The occasion…

B

…not the cause urnham had a penchant for flaunting his “erudition” – which mostly centred on the studied phrases he’d drop in conversations and speeches. With lawyers of his generation having to cram a whole list of Latin phrases, these were liberally trotted out at the drop of a hat. One of his favourites was to make the distinction between “casus belli” – the occasion used to justify a war and “causa belli” – the real cause of the war.

So back in 1963, for instance, Burnham’s 80-day strike by the TUC for higher wages was simply the casus belli for bringing down the PPP Government. The real reason, the causa belli, was the US’s refusal to accept the “communist” PPP Government. Burnham played the game (Wink!Wink!) and was soon rewarded with the reins of power in Guyana – which he didn’t let go of to his death.

The present followers of Burnham now ensconced in the PNC – incarnated as APNU – don’t have his facility with words, but they certainly know how to play the game. The latest demonstration was the CoI into the “assassination conspiracy” against Prezzie, who just happens to be the leader of the PNC. While the allegations were clearly a “cock and bull” story, there’s no question it should’ve been investigated properly.

But the civilian controllers of the Police in Government are supposed to be the Minister of Public Security and his staff. Did Ramjattan advise that the Police were incapable of conducting their own investigation? This is a crucial question. The AFC demanded the Public Security Ministry be allocated to them because of the critical need for this institution to be professionalised. During the first PNC regime, as the Rodney CoI proved, the Police had been utterly de-professionalised and made into a creature of the PNC. The President just can’t treat the Minister of Public Security like his “creature”. But from all that has gone down, it’s clear Ramjattan’s a mere spectator, complaining about ‘leaks” and supporting the doomed Crime Chief!

Most alarmingly, he’s mute as the implementation phase kicks in – which is where we’re seeing the CoI was just the occasion for the war. Most cynically so! The cause of the war was the PNC’s fear that the upper echelons of the Police Force MIGHT BE sympathetic to the PPP, during whose Administration they were appointed.

But while a CoI is appointed by the President, he, like the Minister, can’t just fire “lax” officials. So we’re hearing about “REORGANISING” the Force. But we didn’t need a new CoI, for that, did we?

Prezzie sat on the Disciplined Forces Commission, which already pronounced on that! …for graft in pharma We all know about the reasons offered by the Government for pulling their pharma out of the NEW GPC bond at Ruimveldt and storing it at a warehouse in Albouystown. The NEW GPC rates were too high…but that turned out to be a LIE since it was at least three times cheaper! Then we were told the warehouse was PAHO approved…That would’ve been a miracle since the “warehouse” was just a bottom house that took months to be made ready!! And bought and equipped by money forwarded by the Govt!

Well, after all the protests and resignations and further lies (The PM: “the Govt warehouse at Diamond is too far away and the drugs needed at GPHC would get stuck in traffic!!), we now hear a $2.4 million storage bond will be built at Kingston, and the Diamond bond will be extended for $1.6 million. These will take care of ALL STORAGE. So what was the CAUSE of the Government spending $150 million to date on the Albouystown bond?

To pay off a “political investment”!! …for schooling One RISE rep took umbrage at Lincoln Lewis attempting to “school” them on constitutional change.

While insisting the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) be CONSTITUTIONALLY enshrined!!

It’s the “Fiscal Rules and Fiscal Responsibility Legislation” not the SWF, oh well-schooled one!!

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

News

9

tuesDAY, september 26, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Minister Patterson falsely implicates IDB again! ...as investigations reveal financial institution not funding Linden Bridge study

P

ublic Infrastructure Minister David Patterson has been found to be less than truthful again, this time as he attempted to clarify misinformation that he has already disseminated—this time falsely accusing the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) of funding a feasibility study for a replacement bridge on the Demerara in Region 10 at the Wismar/Mackenzie crossing.

This misrepresentation was made while the minister was retracting a previous erroneous claim that “with funding from the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB), the Ministry advertised the consultancy for feasibility study and design for the new Demerara River Bridge”.

However, upon investigation and verification, it has since been clearly revealed that no provision for such project was provided by the IDB. As a matter of fact, the project was never advertised by the said financial institution.

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson

Corroborating this claim is that funding for the construction of the Wismar-Mackenzie Bridge is being provided under the United Kingdom Infrastructure Fund (UKIF) programme, which is currently being administered by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

However, to date, under the project, no allocation has been made by CDB. Nonetheless, the oblivious

minister stands steadfast to his words.

According to media reports dated November 30, 2016, tenders for the project were opened by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) on November 29, 2016.

To date, no disclosure has been made on which of the three companies has been selected to conduct the feasibil-

ity study and design of the bridge, nor was the source of funding stated.

In Budget Speech 2017, the Hon. Minister of Finance stated, “A feasibility study for the reconstruction of the existing bridge, which links the communities of Wismar and Mackenzie, will also be carried out”.

However, upon reviewing the Budget estimates for the corresponding period, no mention was made of it, nor was it highlighted in the 2017 midyear report.

In an article published in that state newspaper on June 25, 2017, seven months after tender was opened for the project, the Permanent Secretary of the Public Infrastructure Ministry was quoted as saying, “Nothing pertaining to the bridge is being done right now, even though a feasibility study was being considered.”

Observers have since noted that inconsistencies and deceptive answers emanating from Minister Patterson are serious cause for concern.

He had, over the weekend, attempted to clear the air when he implicated the IDB as being the financiers of the New Demerara River crossing, envisioned to land between Houston and Verasilles, respectively on the eastern and western banks of the Demerara River. This was found to be untrue, and according to Minister Patterson, in seeking to offer an explanation, “The Ministry wishes to state that the consultancy was not funded by the IDB, but rather by the Government of Guyana.”

In an attempt to offer an explanation, he said “The mix-up arose since the IDB was funding the feasibility study and design for the bridge across the Demerara River at Wismar at about the same time.”

He had originally claimed it was with funding from the IDB that the Ministry had advertised the consultancy for feasibility study and design for the new Demerara River Bridge.

The blunder implicating the IDB has seen PPP/C Member of Parliament Bishop Juan Edghill calling for the immediate sacking of this Minister.

The PPP/C Member of Parliament, in calling for President Granger to immediately fire Minister Patterson, said, “This latest public blunder by Patterson was no mistake, as he is leading people to believe now.”

Edghill explained to this publication that when sums of money are being taken from the treasury to fund a feasibility report, that process is entirely different from one in which the IDB is providing funding. There is a whole long process involved that is completely different, he said.

“So Patterson can’t just say, ‘Oh, I mixed up the bridges,’ and is not sanctioned.

Clearly he doesn’t know what he is doing,” Edghill charged.

It has now been revealed that the IDB is funding studies for neither of the bridges.

Skeldon strike off

GuySuCo, GAWU for high-level meeting today

T

he Guyana Sugar C o r p o r a t i o n (GuySuCo) has answered calls made by the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) and has agreed to have engagements aimed at discussing new measures recently forced upon the Skeldon sugar workers.

GAWU President Komal Chand said that GuySuCo informed the Union that it would meet to discuss the issues which led to three days of picketing by the workers.

“The workers have resumed work. As such, the situation will be regarded as normal for the parties to reach. GuySuCo said that the discussions will be about the changes that they want

to implement; they have made some changes as was previously reported that caused the workers to strike, so they will discuss why they want those changes,” Chand told Guyana Times.

In addition, the Union raised other concerns that have been brought to light regarding the reduction of other duties previously carried out by the workers.

According to the GAWU President, “We have raised with them a number of matters about reducing the field work, like planting and ploughing of the land, tillage, etc, that we hope to discuss as well, because for the past weeks since the crop began, those activities have been curtailed”.

GAWU President Komal Chand

It is being reported by the sugar workers that GuySuCo has decided not to undertake any land tilling and cane planting for the remainder of the year at that

estate.

The application of herbicides and fertilisers to canes has also been discontinued by the Corporation.

Skeldon’s tillage tractors were also transferred to other estates along with stocks of fertilisers. In the case of the cane planters and the spray hands, they have been compelled to undertake cane cutting and rat catching tasks respectively.

GAWU is questioning these actions by GuySuCo, since “Skeldon is expected to remain in sugar production and thus the strong need for maintenance of the cultivation. With the intended divestment of Skeldon still not popularly supported in Guyana or at least still some

way off, it follows that the estate would operate under GuySuCo’s banner for some time more and, therefore, we are even more confounded by the sugar company’s unwise decisions”.

According to GAWU, the decision to end these important field operations is another sordid attempt to paint Skeldon as a poor performer and to strengthen the call for its divestment.

The Skeldon sugar workers downed tools for three consecutive days protesting against a sudden and unannounced withdrawal of a long-standing practice whereby they would receive extra payments proportionate to the tasks they complete.

This has been the system for many years, and as such, the workers had opted to down tools to defend their rights.

“If it were the case that the Corporation had wished to change the practice at Skeldon, certainly it could have engaged the Union and the workers in discussions to reach an amicable solution in the nine months the estate was not operating,” GAWU had said.

According to the Union, the Corporation has chosen to employ a “wrecking ball” attitude in addressing issues related to the sugar workers and, as such, made calls for engagement which went unanswered for days.

10 news

tuesday, September 26, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

CJIA arrivals skyrocket Guyana needs Sex Offenders Registry – activist during July-August I T he Caribbean Premier League (CPL), the sporting franchise that has evolved into the Region’s signature sporting bonanza annually – in addition to the growing interest in Guyana’s emerging oil and gas sector have seen the number of visitors to the country skyrocket.

Arrivals at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) for August 2017 set an unprecedented record of 34,796 passengers, surpassing the 2012 figure of 33,367.

Additionally, arrivals for the first eight months rose seven per cent compared to the corresponding period in 2016.

According to management of the CJIA Inc, “The increase can be positively attributed to the Guyana leg of the Caribbean Premier League tournament and a number of entertainment activities held during the month; increased tourist arrivals, additional business travel due to the expansion in the oil and gas and mining (sector)”.

Substantive Minister David Patterson, commenting on the increased arrivals, said: “Overall, 2017 is another strong year for us with business and tourist travelling demand levels steadily increasing due to the sound business policy and enabling environment created by our Government.”

According to Minister Patterson, Government continues to pursue several carriers to assist with the additional influx of visitors.

“High on the list of priori-

ties is a carrier to ply the South American-Georgetown market and both legacy and low-cost carriers for the North American market,” the Minister further stated.

While New York remains the largest key market, there has been an upsurge in other destinations such as Cuba and Panama.

Meanwhile, upon completion of the new Arrivals Terminal building, with the inclusion of several facilities and amenities, the airport’s capacity will be greatly augmented and strengthened, significantly impacting passengers’ experience.

The US$150 million project was scheduled to be completed within 32 months of its commencement in 2013; however, that the deadline was extended to December 1, 2017 since the project would have experienced several delays.

In 2011, Guyana, under the People’s Progressive Party, had secured a US$138 million loan from the China ExportImport (Exim) Bank to fund the expansion and modernisation project, for which the

Guyanese Government has injected some US$12 million. The Project commenced on January 16, 2013.

When the coalition Government came into power in May 2015, the project was put on hold, but following discussions between Public Infrastructure Minister Patterson and the contracting company, China Harbour Engineering Corporation (CHEC), it was announced that the project would be continued but at a downgraded scale.

The original designed expansion was the extension of the runway from 7,500 ft to 10,800 ft to accommodate the Boeing 747-400 aircraft along with doubling the aircraft position from four to eight; installing eight passenger boarding bridges. Also 300 cameras were to be installed to boost the CCTV system. However, the modified version is expected to yield two air passenger boarding bridges for arrival and departure; a 450-seating departure area, escalators and elevators in addition to its extending runway catering for larger categories of aircraft.

n wake of the heinous rape and murder of Berbice teenager Leonard Archibald, a noted child rights activist is reiterating her call for Guyana to introduce a Sex Offenders Registry in the hopes of keeping other at-risk children safe.

According to social worker Nicole Cole, who is a member of the Women and Gender Equality Commission (W&GEC), there is a pressing need for the implementation of this Registry. She stressed the need for the court to process cases more swiftly, citing two recent convictions.

“There were two rape convictions earlier this year; we can start with those two....one is a Pastor who raped a six-year-old girl in 2007 and the other raped another child in 2010...both were convicted in 2017.”

A

Corentyne man was on Monday jailed for 20 years for killing his wife in 2016.

Ravindra Bandoo, a 31-year-old carpenter of Princetown, Corriverton, Region Six (East Berbice/ Corentyne) killed his wife Indrawattee Somwar, also called ‘Sharda,’ by chopping her in the face on March 8, 2016 at their Corriverton home.

State Prosecutor Orintha Schmidt told the court that, on March 8, 2016, Bandoo

was consuming alcohol at a neighbour’s house after which he went home and an argument ensued between himself and his wife. Consequently, he armed himself with a cutlass and inflicted several chops about the face and head of Somwar. The woman was rushed to the Skeldon Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

The post-mortem report prepared by Dr Vivikanand Brijmohan recorded the cause of death as haemorrhage, along with multiple incised wounds.

Bandoo pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter. Meanwhile, in his caution statement, Bandoo confessed to the crime, while adding that he would usually give the now deceased woman all his money, but she had refused to give him money to purchase alcohol.

“She just kept nagging, telling me to stop drinking. I got annoyed and I picked up the cutlass and dealt her several chops,” he told the court.

Earlier, Senior Probation and Social Services Officer Voonashewarie Gopal submitted a probation report on the accused. In the report, she noted that the accused described himself as a hard-working individual who preferred not to socialise. She said reports from the New Amsterdam Prison revealed that the accused is of good conduct. “Further, he rarely received visits from his relatives, and was unable to make any telephone contact with them. On the 21 October 2014, the accused was arrested and charged with unlawful wounding committed against the deceased. However, the case was dismissed because the virtual complainant (deceased) did not wish to offer any evidence against the accused,” she said.

Attorney-at-Law Charrandas Persaud asked the court to be lenient, since Bandoo did not waste the court’s time.

Persaud argued that

“More so, child rape cases should be given special attention by the courts. Why must a child wait seven to 10 years for justice? (So) yes, there is need for a Sex Offenders Registry to keep a record of sex offenders.

Children are being violated

Work on $120M Bagotville Bridge commences …temporary bridge constructed to ease traffic pile-up

The sinking bridge

Corentyne man gets 20 years for killing wife

By Andrew Carmichael

Child rights activist Nicole Cole

(partly) because of systematic weaknesses.”

Rights activists have long pointed to the absence of a Sex Offenders’ Registry in Guyana.

According to the United States Department of Justice, sex offenders’ registration and notification programmes are a system for monitoring and tracking sex offenders following their release into the community.

The registration provides important information about convicted sex offenders to authorities and the public, such as the offender’s name, current location and past offences. It describes this system as important for public safety purposes.

There are even sex offender websites, which help to notify communities of the presence of a sexual deviant in their midst.

Bandoo was himself a victim, since he had been before the court for physical abuse against his wife.

“The system failed him by not providing the needed support and assistance to the accused,” he told the court.

Charrandas argued that the accused claimed that he was told hurtful words, such as: “You don’t have money to give me, I will get another man.”

However, Justice James Bovell-Drakes, in handing down sentence, said the accused was spared once when the woman opted not to give evidence against him. “He should have looked at it as a new start in life,” the trial judge said.

He said the court was considering that the injuries were to the face and head, and the fact that the couple’s two children had witnessed the act.

“She was not your dog. She was not your animal. She was not a piece of wood,” Justice Bovell-Drakes said.

The judge noted that a cutlass was used in carrying out the act, and said if the accused was provoked he should have controlled himself.

Bandoo stood in the docks with tears rolling down his face.

The court took into consideration the fact that Bandoo had spent two years incarcerated before trial, and then imposed the 20-year sentence.

G

aico Construction on Monday officially commenced rebuilding the Bagotville Bridge on the West Bank of Demerara, some two months after it began to sink owing to heavy rainfall and erosion. A temporary bridge has been constructed near the site in

to be completed within two to three months.

Affected persons had pleaded with the Ministry to have the structure rehabilitated since it was hindering the smooth flow of traffic causing an unnecessary build-up.

An engineer on site told Guyana Times that the old

The temporary bridge in the final stage of construction

efforts to ease traffic congestion.

The temporary bridge was built of greenheart lumber. The Public Infrastructure Ministry sought an additional $120 million under its bridges programme for the reconstruction and critical rehabilitation works for the Bridge.

The Bridge is expected

bridge would be demolished and replaced with the full steel structure to withstand the weight of heavy-duty vehicles, which often traverse the bridge.

He further explained that the new structure would be able to withstand corrosion and heavy traffic.

The Bridge links La Grange to Bagotville and beyond.

tuesday, September 26, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

11

News

Demerara River report

PPP demands evidence of shunned companies’ unsuitability – as investigations show some exceeded Dutch firm in bridge-building experience Mc Donald of the United Kingdom in association with SRK Engineering and Consulting.

The Chinese bidders include China Harbour Engineering (CHEC); China Railway First Group, and Zhejiang Provincial Institute of

Suriname; WSP Caribbean Limited from Trinidad; and the Guyana-based Stunning Nisi Inc. NMN Group of Canada, in association with CEMCO of Guyana, had also expressed interest in conducting the feasibility study for the new bridge.

They were also joined

Bridges which were built in Serbia and France by French company Egis

By Jarryl Bryan

F

ollowing admission by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure that it single-sourced a contract to carry out a feasibility study into the new Demerara River Bridge to a Dutch company, questions have arisen regarding the grounds for Government disqualifying all the other companies which initially had bid.

During a recent press conference, members of the parliamentary Opposition poked holes in the Government’s motives. PPP Chief Whip Gail Teixeira and Member of Parliament Juan Edghill affirmed that while companies which had their bids annulled were experienced in bridge construction, Dutch company LievenseCSO was not.

“The Ministry said it acted with the knowledge of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board, and the bid that was received from the company was found to be the best technically and (was the most) fiscally sound bid that had been received,” Edghill

ny. And noting that letters have to be written to companies which were part of an annulled tender, explaining the reason for the decision, Edghill demanded copies of those letters.

The Ministry is yet to take up the Opposition’s challenge to release the evaluation report, despite issuing a press release on Saturday which corrected its prior inaccurate statement regarding the InterAmerican Development Bank’s (IDB) role in funding the project.

Without that report, however, this newspaper conducted its own investigations into the background of the other companies, and highlighted the construction projects of at least three of them.

Egis

One such bidder was French engineering firm Egis Group of Companies.

This firm has completed a number of projects, including the Žeželj Bridge in Serbia -- a piece of infrastructure which cost 60 million euros. It is a project partially funded by the

sign of the bridge, which cost some 27 million euros, includes a main span in excess of 150 metres that is suspended from an axial arc by radial lines.

China Shandong

China Shandong International Economic and Technical Cooperation Group Ltd, a subsidiary of the Chinese state-owned Shandong Hi-Speed Group, was another bidder for the contract. The group has the distinction of designing the world’s longest known cross-sea bridge.

The bridge is an important link between China’s eastern port city of Qingdao and the offshore island of Huangdao. According to the Guinness Book of World records, the six-lane Jiaozhou Bay Bridge is 26.4 miles long and is designed to withstand the impact of a 300,000- tonne vessel.

Ballast Nedam

Netherlands-based Ballast Nedam is known for its work in neighbouring Suriname and countries around the world. A few years ago, the company was

Netherlands-based Ballast Nedam built this bridge in Canada

stated at the press conference. “Now, if it’s solesourced, what are you comparing it against? C’mon Minister, stop the lying! If you are saying this (company) is sole-sourced, what are you comparing it against?”

Edghill went on to demand copies of the evaluation reports of the 22 companies and the Tender Board minutes reflecting the decision in favour of the compa-

European Union.

According to the project document, the French company had to build the bridge along with associated connecting infrastructure. This included the construction of a road and the removal of an existing temporary bridge.

Another bridge the company built was the Confluences Bridge crossing the Maine River in Angers, France. The complex de-

selected to build the Berbice River Bridge, but the agreement was later cancelled.

Some of the company’s major projects have included bridges. One such bridge is the billion-dollar two-lane Confederation Bridge in Canada. The bridge, which was constructed with 62 piers, is 11 metres wide and 12.9 kilometres long.

The other companies The bids of these and oth-

er companies were opened on December 8, 2016 by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB). Seven European and four Chinese companies had signalled their interest. Several of these overseas companies had partnered with local firms.

The other companies were Politechnica Ingeneria Architecture of Italy, in association with Marcelle Gaskin and Associates of Guyana; Howson Consulting Engineers of the United Kingdom; COWI of Denmark; IPRO Consulting from Germany, and Mott

Shandong International Economic and Technical Cooperation Group Ltd designed this world record bridge in China

Communications, Planning, Design and Research. Indiabased Rites Limited had also taken a shot at the bidding process.

VIKAR Enterprises of Trinidad and Tobago; CTE, in association with NV Rustwijk and Rustwijk of

by Sener of South Africa; Japan-based Stantec, in association with Pedelta; Proficenter from Brazil; Stuart Consulting Group; along with Rahmad and Associates from the United States, and CBCL Ltd from Nova Scotia, Canada.

12 news Guyana exports 7500 tonnes rice to Cuba TuesDAY, september 26, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Deputy Crime Chief reassigned to admin duties

Deputy Crime Chief Rishi Das

White rice being loaded in the vessel’s hatch, for shipment to Cuba

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fter exporting its last shipment of more than 400 tonnes of white rice to Cuba back in 1999, Guyana is ready to ship rice to that Caribbean island again. The shipment of approximately 7,500 tonnes is expected to leave the shores of Guyana today, and arrive in ALIMPORT, Cuba this weekend.

This action follows an announcement made by the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) of possible exports to the country.

General Manager (ag) of the GRDB, Allison Peters, said it has been close to two decades since rice was exported to Cuba.

“This is the first shipment to Cuba since 1999, when the MARDS rice milling group sent about 400 tonnes of white rice to Cuba at a price of US$345 per tonne”, Peters said.

Representatives of the Cuban firm ALIMPORT and the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) were present to witness the loading of the rice, which was done at the Muneshwer’s Wharf in Georgetown on Monday Reynaldo Aguirre Labora, who is purchasing the rice on behalf of the Government of Cuba, said there has always been the need for quality rice to be sourced. This is one of the main reasons for the purchase of Guyana’s rice.

“We always make tenders.

We look for better conditions for rice, the better quality; so we found that with some Guyanese exporters, like Nand Persaud, we can have a good, reasonable relationship with Guyana itself. It’s a Caribbean country, it’s very close to Cuba, so it’s very convenient,” the representative said.

According to Peters, the GRDB plays an integral role in ensuring that product quality is maintained. “The Guyana Rice Development Board is responsible for the quality, and we will also do fumigation. And we are confident with our preparations, so we don’t expect any issues with the rice being loaded here or on arrival in Cuba.”

The ALIMPORT representative said more shipments to Cuba can be expected. “We are confident that this will be the beginning of

a longstanding relationship.

We trust also in the Guyana Rice Development Board, and they show they are very serious in handling the quality of this shipment,” Labora noted.

The GRDB Head concluded that the shipment deal is the first part of an existing contract between Guyana and Cuba for rice to be traded between the two countries.

“There is a contract with this company for rice to be sent to Cuba. So this is the first part of that contract, and we hope that another one will be sent soon… Not only the Government of Guyana would do contracts, but also private investors, who are constantly looking for buyers with good prices to purchase rice.”

This consignment follows the first shipment of rice to Mexico, in July 2017. More markets continue to be sought for the export of seed paddy and rice in the near future.

Paddy production for the first crop of 2017 was recorded at 518,667 metric tonnes.

It is projected that local rice production will increase by 1.3 per cent for 2017.

Beleaguered rice farmers, are mostly eking out a living by cultivating plots less than 10 acres in size, after the rice industry declined following the 2015 elections. The loss of the Venezuelan market for 200,000+ tonnes of rice and paddy annually was a serious blow to Guyana’s rice industry and the nation as a whole for a number of reasons.

There was firstly the size of that market – absorbing fully one-third of our exports.

Secondly, there was the price of US$780/tonne that was almost double that of the world market price. Third were the terms of payment which were tied to the PetroCaribe initiative, via which Guyana was receiving oil at extremely concessionary terms. The arrangement became fundamentally a barter arrangement that meant the Guyana Government did not have to pay for oil in foreign currency (US dollars) but to our own farmers in Guyana dollars.

The new market for Guyanese rice in Cuba evoked echoes of the conditions existing here during the PNC era when that Administration cancelled the market when that party assumed power.

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ore than four weeks after Rishi Das requested to be relieved of his post as Deputy Crime Chief, his wish was granted by acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine.

The acting Top Cop told media operatives on Monday that Das’s request was debated and after considering several factors, the decision was taken.

Das will now take up a position in the admin section of the Force. While Ramnarine did not reveal the new post, Guyana Times understands that Das will be working closely with Assistant

Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken.

Das made the request during the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the alleged plot to assassinate President David Granger. However, one of the recommendations made by the Commission was to remove Das from his present post after the CoI found that he was neglectful by omitting the date from a report that was submitted to Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud when the allegation was first made by Andriff Gillard.

The report also stated that he should be disciplined on grounds that he claimed he was of the opinion that a proper investigation was not done, and he did nothing as the Deputy Crime Chief or when he acted as Crime Chief to have the situation corrected. This, the Commission said, speaks volumes of his competence to occupy such a position.

“His efficacy in the CID [Criminal Investigation Department] also comes into question, and, therefore, [he] should be removed from the Department,” the CoI report stated. Das has another three years to retire from the Guyana Police Force.

Only recently, substantive Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum proceeded on annual leave amounting to at least two months, but Das refused to act in that capacity, claiming that he was ill and

Acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine

wanted some sick leave.

Owing to this development, F Division (Lethem and other Interior Locations) Commander, Rabindranauth Budhram was earmarked to take up the post, but on account of an ongoing investigation in that Division with respect to the discovery of an illegal airstrip and aircraft, he was reconsidered. As such, Senior Superintendent of Police, Paul Williams was posted to head the CID. Acting as Deputy Crime Chief is Michael Kingston.

Guyana to benefit from telemedicine programme …providing health care to rural areas through technology

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he Public Health Ministry has indicated that arrangements are in place for a telemedicine programme to be implemented in five regions across Guyana.

This announcement was made

by Minister Volda Lawrence on Thursday last during a courtesy call by the newly-inducted Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Lilian Chatterjee.

According to Lawrence, telemedicine, also referred to as ‘e-health’ or ‘telehealth’, allows healthcare professionals to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients with the use of telecommunications technology, eliminating the need for face-to-face meetings with doctors or nurses. In addition, she noted that the programme will reduce the dependency on medevac services in and out of the interior regions.

As such, the telemedicine initiative is set to target rural areas throughout the country, with special focus on Regions One (Barima-Waini); Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); Seven (CuyuniMazaruni); Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

During her meeting with the Public Health Minister, the Canadian High Commissioner expressed delight over the execution of this much-needed initiative. She pledged her country’s commitment to the successful implementation of this undertaking, which she dubbed “very important”.

“I am at the disposal of my government and yours,” Chatterjee said, stating that her tenure in Guyana will see the continuation of “our good relations with the Government of Guyana”.

In fact, the Canadian diplomat further promised to “look into this more to see if there are opportunities”.

Meanwhile, in responding to the support offered by the foreign dignitary, Minister Lawrence extended appreciation to Chatterjee for coming on board with the initiative.

Lawrence then conveyed Guyana’s gratitude to Canada as a long-standing diplomatic partner, especially in offering assistance to “achieve our objectives”. With that, the Public Health Minister predicted that Chatterjee’s

Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence during the meeting with Canadian High Commissioner Lilian Chatterjee

incumbency would result in further “positive results” from the relationship shared by the two friendly nations.

Also emanating from the meeting is the intention of utilising the telemedicine approach to zoom in on Maternal and Child Health (MCH) needs of the farflung communities of Guyana. This is in light of the alarmingly high maternal mortality rate which currently stands at 121/100,000 while the infant mortality ratio stands at a record of 23/1000.

This information was relayed by Dr Ertenisa Hamilton, an MCH Officer attached to the Ministry.

Hamilton went on to say that pregnancy-induced hypertension (high blood pressure) and post-partum haemorrhage are the chief killers of pregnant women while respiratory infections and premature births kill the newborns cited in the local statistics.

She subsequently outlined the possible reasons leading to such complications, outlining that delays in seeking and arrival of medical care, as well as further holdups in receiving appropriate emergency care conspire to cause the

deaths of Guyanese pregnant women, particularly from rural and Indigenous communities.

On that note, the MCH Officer envisaged that with the implementation of the telemedicine programme, there will be a significant reduction in maternal, neo-natal, infant and child deaths within these vulnerable communities.

Adding to that, training programmes are currently underway to increase the capacity of residents as Community Health Workers (CHWs) within the target regions to aid in this mission.

Thus far, the Finance and Telecommunications Ministries have already thrown support behind the pending telemedicine programme while the existing MCH initiatives are being backed by the Canadian Government, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO). In light of the growing support, this technologically-advanced distance medicine approach is set to be up and running within the coming year.

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tuesDAY, september 26, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

New Demerara Bridge

Govt keeps Houston residents in dark ...with eviction only months away

cousin does be home alone, they does carry he and ask he for measure (the premises).”

The residents further added that they received no notices or letters from any authority on the move; with some saying they cannot image life anywhere but in their transported lands on which many have resided Residents are calling for official word on which of the homes will be removed

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esidents in the vicinity of the site for the new Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) at Houston, East Bank Demerara (EBD) have indicated that they were in the dark over the Public Infrastructure Ministry’s plans regarding the removal of several homes to facilitate construction of the crossing.

It is expected that construction of the HoustonVersailles bridge across the Demerara River will commence in the new year. The relocation of several buildings was deemed necessary to facilitate the construction of road overpasses that would lead to the new

bridge.

In the prefeasibility study conducted by Dutch company LievenseCSO Engineering Contracting BV, some four houses and a nursery school were cited for demolition, but on Monday, residents in the area claimed that no consultations were held to confirm the exact homes that would be moved. This has left an unsettling feeling among the residents who say that all information relative to the plans is relayed through the media.

“Nobody hasn’t come and tell us anything as yet; we’re just seeing this thing in the newspapers and on the news. They’re doing all

these feasibility studies, saying that the bridge will commence next year, but nobody ain’t telling us anything,” a grandmother, who lives in a yard with several homes, noted.

Another resident claimed that she, along with members in the community, first suspected major road works would be conducted when they saw persons in construction gear measuring out their plots over extended periods of time.

“Every time, they’re sending people to measure – from last month to this month, they measuring all the time, nothing else, they are saying. When my small

The proposed design for the Houston-Versailles bridge

Resident Shawn Moses

for over 40 years.

“Is 45 years I living here – born and grow in this yard. We don’t know where we’re going [but, where I’m

OAS anti-corruption review...

The Local Government Commission Act 2014 has not been brought into effect as the Government has not issued the Commencement Order. The non-appointment of the Local Government Commission, which has responsibility to appoint public servants in the 71 local government authorities, has led to ministerial appointments, replacement of staff, dismissal and transfer of staff in these bodies in violation of the Public Service Rules. In the interim, four members have been nominated, one through the required consensual mechanism in the National Assembly and three nominated by the Leader of the Opposition in accordance with the Act; however, the four Government appointees have not been named to date.

“In addition, of great concern, is that the 2016 and 2017 Budgets of all the constitutional agencies were reduced by the Minister of Finance in violation of the Constitution and the 2015 Amendment to the Financial Management and Accountability Act,” the PPP/C Opposition stated.

“1.2.

Systems for Government procurement of goods and services – Promote the adoption of provisions, in the Government systems for the procurement of goods and services, which ensure the principles of openness, equity and efficiency under the Convention” Under this rubric, there are specific recommen-

dations that call for the Government to “develop and implement provisions that punish public officials in cases of non-compliance with the public procurement rules, without prejudice to any other laws under the existing system; and criminalise those who act as accessories after the fact with respect to corruption offences, as required by Article VI (1) (e) of the Convention.”

According to the Opposition PPP/C, the Government has fired many officers in the system who worked with the previous Government based on forensic audits, which were commissioned without public tender and contrary to the Audit Act. “Of note is that many of these private auditors are known to be politically aligned. Many of these auditors have not allowed the agencies being audited to see and respond to their findings before they were published.

Although charges have been brought against five officers, present-day exposures of wrongdoing and serious breaches of the procurement process and rules have not led to any sanctions,” the PPP/C Opposition stated.

It noted that there was a long list of projects that had been sole sourced, particularly with large infrastructural works. Most recently, the abandonment of a public tender process where 22 foreign companies submitted Expressions of Interest and the secret resort to sole sourcing of the feasibility study for the new Demerara

River Bridge has been exposed.

“There is ongoing and consistent procurement of pharmaceutical and medical supplies totalling billions of dollars in breach of any semblance of competitive bidding. For this year alone, $2 billion (70 per cent) of the budget for pharmaceuticals and medical supplies have been purchased without going to tender; in one case, the request to the NPTAB [National Procurement and Tender Administration Board] to waiver tender procedures to procure over $605 million from one company was denied and yet the Ministry of Public Health went ahead,” the Opposition stated.

Furthermore, it said the long list of sole-sourced projects includes those awarded to election “financiers” of the Government. “Ministers have even sought to justify tampering with the legal requirements, and the abandonment of the tender procurement procedures is now common place,” the Opposition charged.

It added that the transition required in the Procurement Act with regard to the role of Cabinet’s “no objection” was not being adhered to.

Progress that Guyana had been making with regard to the Convention, the Procurement Act and Regulations, the National Procurement and Tender Administration, and even the newly- appointed Public Procurement Commission “is being constantly and sys-

living now] is close to town and close to my work and to the school,” a father of one expressed. He highlighted that the Houston Nursery School, which is slated for removal, is a landmark in the area.

Meanwhile, Shawn Moses, 42, said that it was his neighbours who informed him of the plans to move some of the homes.

Some residents said that their plots of land have been in their families for over 60 years, which, according to them, makes the removal much harder to conceptualise. They are calling for of-

ficials to meet with them to discuss their future.

Government is moving to replace the current DHB at Peter’s Hall, EBD and Meer Zorgen, West Bank Demerara (WBD) owing to its age and mounting maintenance costs. However, in the recent weeks, there have been reiterated calls for a more transparent process as the project gets underway.

Meanwhile, if the residents choose not to move the Government can only evict them by invoking its powers of eminent domain and compensating them at market value.

From page 3

temically dismantled”, the PPP/C posited. It said the Procurement Act and financial rules were being honoured in the breach as the country reels from one corruption scandal to another.

The OAS 2014 draft guidelines for whistleblower legislation have not produced a bill for the National Assembly’s review to date and thus the 2014 recommendations remain unimplemented.

Available mechanisms to have access to information, and greater transparency and accountability such as questions and motions in the Legislature have had limited success, and parliamentary oversight bodies such as the Public Accounts Committee and the Parliamentary Sectoral Committees have contributed eight of the 11 committee reports pending on the Order Paper, some for as long as nine months.

For the first time in the history of the Guyana Parliament, Ministers now sit on the Public Accounts Committee, one of whom is the subject of an investigation. The four sectoral oversight committees of the Government’s policies and performance also now include Ministers. These developments are in clear violation of the intention of the Constitution and the Parliamentary Standing Orders to strengthen scrutiny of Government expenditure, policies and performance.

The Government defeated the 2016 Opposition motion calling for all Members

of Parliament to make public their income tax declarations and submissions to the Integrity Commission for the last 10 years. The Government has not appointed the Integrity Commission.

Furthermore, a request by the Leader of the Opposition to hire an international firm specialised in tracing assets of former and current Government officials has not solicited any response from the Government.

“The NPTA website, a critical measure that allows for public access and scrutiny of the procurement process, is now more limited in access to information than four years ago. The electronic procurement system, started in 2014, seems to have been abandoned. This lack of information and public disclosure, including the introduction of non-disclosure clauses in contracts of awards of tenders, have made it even more difficult to know what is going on at the various stages of the procurement of Government goods and services,” the Opposition charged.

“There are no public statistics available on procurement whether by method – public, restricted, sole sourced – of goods and services nor on the number of contracts awarded at what price and to whom.

Questions to Ministers on specific tenders take a long time to be answered, or are never answered in the National Assembly,” the Opposition said.

It pointed out that the Commissioner of

Information under the Access to Information Act is denied an office and staff and, therefore, could not function effectively.

“These acts are indicative of an environment cultivated by the Government based on nepotism and corruption and one that is deliberately designed to deny transparency and accountability. Were it not for the progress made

by Guyana through constitutional and legal reforms since it ratified the InterAmerican Convention to enhance transparency and accountability, the public would be even more removed and uninformed,” the PPP/C Opposition argued.

According to the PPP/C Opposition, it is clear that the Government has paid scant attention to the InterAmerican Convention Against Corruption and its obligations to work in “good faith” to implement the recommendations of the MESICIC. In contrast, the reversal of the progress made

by Guyana in implementing the Convention is conspicuous. Despite the rhetoric about anti-corruption, the country is being mired in the depths of corruption, the Opposition charged.

It noted that the above-mentioned examples are by no means an exhaustive list.

“Although the Parliamentary Opposition has not been invited to be part of the review, we, however, stand ready to meet with the OAS MESICIC review team,” the Opposition stated.

14 news

tuesDAY, september 26, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Parking meter renegotiation

M&CC postpones committee selection …appeals for civil society nominations

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he Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown (M&CC) were forced to defer selection of members for the Parking Meter Contract Renegotiation Committee because members of the public did not submit names of persons to sit on the committee.

The M&CC had, on May 13, 2016, entered into a contract with Smart City Solutions Inc for parking meters to be installed in Georgetown. A committee was set up on April 26, 2017, one month after Bulkan had suspended the paid parking initiative. Its members are: Malcolm Ferreira (chairman), Roopnarine Persaud, Noelle Chow-Chee (VC), Ivelaw Henry, Trichria Richards, Carlyle Goring and Heston Bostwick.

The Committee’s Terms of Reference, (ToR), drafted and voted upon by the majority of M&CC members, provide the committee with the authority to “engage all stakeholders within the parameters of the framework

agreed upon by the Council, Cabinet and Smart City Solutions (SCSI) to seek to determine what terms of the agreement can and should be negotiated to bring the contract in harmony with the desires of the Council, Central Government, SCSI and the citizenry.

The life of the Parking Meter Re-negotiation Committee ended when it submitted its final report containing its findings to the Mayor of Georgetown on August 2, and later circulated same to all councillors.

The report made three recommendations: renegotiating the contract with SCS, scrapping the entire project, and awaiting the outcome of the pending court cases.

On September 7, a vote of 13:5:7 was returned in favour of continuing the metered parking systems with a renegotiated contract.

Councillor Gregory Fraser of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) colluded with Alliance For Change Councillor Sherod Duncan and Deputy Mayor Lionel

The Mayor and City Council at Monday’s statutory meeting

Jaikarran, along with the People’s Progressive Party Councillors Khame Sharma and Bisham Kuppen, to scrap the contract.

Councillors Heston Bostwick, Carolyn Caesar, Noelle Chow-Chee, Oscar Clarke, Welton Clarke, Yvonne Ferguson, Junior Garrett, Winston Harding, Ivelaw Henry, Tricia Richards, James Daniels, Monica Thomas and Patricia Chase-Green all voted to have the contract renegotiated; while Councillors Malcolm Ferreira, Carlyle Goring, Andrea Marks, Alfred Mentore, Akeem

Peter, Phillip Smith and Sophia Whyte voted to await the outcome of the pending legal proceedings.

Following the vote, the Council agreed to appoint a Special Select Committee consisting of seven councillors and two members of the public with expertise and experience in accounting, law and engineering to meet with SCS. They would discuss the terms of the agreement with a view to renegotiating it in light of the findings and recommendations made by the previous committee that carried out an examination of the proj-

ect and reported its findings to the council.

At Monday’s statutory meeting, the Council was supposed to adopt the draft Terms of Reference and select the members of the new committee, but Mayor Patricia Chase-Green informed the Councillors that nominations for the public members have not been submitted. The council agreed to have the date extended to October to have the nominations made by the public or Councillors.

“If we do not get any names submitted by October 9, then we will have to move

a motion to have the number reduced to 7, to just accommodate the Councillors,” she informed.

The new committee, according to the draft ToR, would be tasked with engaging Smart City Solutions with a view to renegotiating the terms of the agreement entered into between the parties, and more specifically to seek to take into account the concerns raised and addressed in the reports of the Special Committee in relation to costs, fines, enforcement, profit-sharing, areas, times and other factors identified, and any other relevant actions as the committee may, in its discretion, determine or as may be suggested by the general council.

Upon completion of the negotiation period, the new committee would have to prepare a report and present it to Council at a meeting convened for that purpose, setting out the proposals and/or agreements arrived at.

Bankers Association consulted Rupanau receives its land on Budget 2018 title document

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Finance Minister, Winston Jordon, in discussion with members of the Bankers Association. In photo, (at left) is Bank of Guyana Governor, Dr Gobind Ganga; and at centre is Managing Director of Republic Bank Guyana, Richard Sammy

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inance Minister Winston Jordan on Monday met stakeholders from the banking sector as consultations on the 2018 budget continue.

According to Minister Jordan, members of the sector are optimistic about foreign exchange in the country.

“We discussed issues to do with the exchange rate, and where that is. You know (that), earlier in the year, they had some contretemps surrounding it, and I was pleased to know not only that it has been stabilised over the past months, but there is quite a bit of foreign currency circulating in the system. I was pleased to learn that the mechanism is working,” the Minister said.

The Department of Public Information said the meeting with the Bankers Association dealt with some critical areas in the country’s economy, including the

performance of the economy in particular regard to sugar and rice. Minister Jordan noted that these two sectors have been partly responsible for the increase in non-performing loans in the banking system. As such, he requested a dissection of the problem “…so that we could understand whether these non-performing loans will be increasing, or whether they have tapered off now”.

He indicated that the banking stakeholders were pleased with the developments in the oil-and-gas sector, and the new horizon for improved lending.

Expressing appreciation at being consulted on the budget, Richard Sammy, Managing Director of Republic Bank Guyana, remarked that the issues discussed and ventilated were largely accepted by the Government.

“We would have raised issues regarding the corpora-

tion tax, as well as support for the rice and sugar and agricultural sectors… We would have also addressed the need for public-private partnership frameworks in Guyana, as well as the development and modernization of payments and greater use of technology in the banking sector.”

According to the Finance Minister, the consultations are progressing well. To date, there have been discussions with the Private Sector Commission, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association, and the trade unions, among others.

Apart from those agencies, the Finance Minister will be holding consultations with the African Business Council, the Upper Corentyne Chambers of Commerce and Industry, and a group of young professionals and intellectuals.

upanau, located in the Deep South Rupununi in Region Nine, has received its land title document, guaranteeing its absolute ownership of 11,184.16 acres of community land.

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, handed over the document to Aishalton Toshao Douglas Casimero on behalf of Rupanau, on September 23 at the St Ignatius Benab.

According to the Department of Public Information, the Minister explained that the community’s land-titling process was completed in September 2015, but the document was only recently finalised, hence the hand-over this year.

Minister Allicock noted that the presentation of the document is timely, since it coincides with Indigenous Heritage Month. “The people have something more to celebrate”, he enthused.

Minister Sydney Allicock handing over the document to Aishalton Toshao Douglas Casimero on behalf of Rupanau

Under the Guyana REDD + Investment Fund (GRIF), the former PPP/C Administration had, in 2013, signed a US$10.7million agreement to implement an Indigenous land-titling and demarcation project. The project came to an end in 2016, but the Ministry requested an extension in the

2017 budget. This resulted in $165million being earmarked to advance land titling for the remaining identified areas.

In 2016, almost 1,000 square kilometres of land had been demarcated in Regions One, Seven, and Eight.

Plantain Walk man granted $30,000 bail for unlawful wounding

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omario Pestano of Plantain Walk, West Bank Demerara (WBD) appeared before Magistrate Christel Lambert at the Vreed-enHoop Magistrate’s Court on Monday to answer to an unlawful wounding charge.

The prosecution contended that on August 31,

2017 in the West Demerara District, Pestano unlawfully wounded Gilbert Bennett, the Virtual Complainant (VC).

The accused man, who stated that he was a construction worker, denied the allegation by way of entering a not-guilty plea. As such, Magistrate Lambert

granted him $30,000 bail, but Pestano related to the court that he did not have the money to pay as he is currently out of work. He was placed on the bench before being escorted out of court. The Plantain Walk resident will make his next court appearance at Vreeden-Hoop on October 30.

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tuesDAY, september 26, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

President meets with UN Secretary General A s the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly winds down, President David Granger on Monday met with United Nations Secretary General António Guterres, along with several high-ranking officials from a number of international organisations.

The President’s delegation included Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge; Presidential Adviser on Petroleum, Dr Jan Mangal; Foreign Affairs Ministry Director General, Ambassador Audrey Waddell; Sir Shridath Ramphal and Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations, Rudolph Michael Ten-Pow. The Head of State also met with Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Achim Steiner and a team which included UNDP’s Assistant Administrator and Director of the Regional Bureau for

From left: Advisor on Petroleum to President David Granger, Dr Jan Mangal; Sir Shridath Ramphal; Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Rudolph Michael Ten-Pow; President David Granger; President of Chevron Africa and Latin America Exploration and Production Company, Clay Neff; Chevron’s General Manager of Policy, General and Government Affairs and Latin America Exploration and Production Company, Mamadou Marcel Blondin Beye and Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge

Latin America and the Caribbean, Jessica Faieta; Regional Adviser at the Regional Bureau for Latin America and the Caribbean, Guyanese Kenroy Roach and

UNDP’s Policy Specialist, Rosita Todorova. During this meeting, the two sides discussed Guyana’s ‘green state’ agenda as well as the projects that the UNDP are cur-

rently implementing in Guyana.

The President later met with the President of Chevron Africa and Latin America Exploration and Production Company, Clay

Neff and Chevron’s General Manager of Policy, General and Government Affairs and Latin America Exploration and Production Company, Mamadou Marcel Blondin Beye. During that meeting, Neff relayed to President Granger, Chevron’s interest with regard to investments in Guyana, the Ministry of the Presidency stated.

The Head of State and his delegation also met with Hess Corporation President John Hess and the company’s Senior Vice President and Corporate Secretary, Timothy Goodell. HESS Corporation is an oil exploration company that holds a 30 per cent interest in ExxonMobil’s offshore drilling operations in the Stabroek Block. In May, Hess met with President Granger when he visited Guyana and reaffirmed his company’s commitment to ensuring that their operations are done in a transparent manner.

GGP funds education/special CGF to set up disaster relief fund needs projects in St Ignatius

A section of the gathering at the ceremony in St Ignatius, Central Rupununi

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he Government of Japan, through its Grassroots Human Security Programme (GGP), recently held a closing ceremony for two education/special needs projects completed in St Ignatius, Central Rupununi.

The GGP offers grant funding to Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and other non-profit organisations in the Eastern Caribbean, including Guyana.

Through the aegis of the NGO Special Needs for Life Guyana and its Principal Executive Officer PEO), Mark Adams, the two projects were funded to two entities.

The Lethem Special Needs Group, headed by Yusa Xavier, received funding for the construction of a Multipurpose Centre at a cost of US$87,178 at St Ignatius and the St Ignatius Secondary School Electrification Project was also funded at a cost of US$90,000. The Electrification Project consisted of providing the school with solar panels, batteries, inverters, and controllers to provide support for the school’s electricity supply and security lighting and a solar well to augment the water supply at the school.

The projects were completed in June and July of 2016 and have been well

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo is joined by CGF President Louise Martin and other officials at the CGF Regional Conference

The Government and people of Japan were pleased to be able to make a tangible contribution to the lives of grassroots Guyanese, Japanese emissary Shinichiro Kobayashi said

received by the target communities in the central Rupununi.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Japanese emissary from the Embassy of Japan in Trinidad, which oversees the GGP in the eastern Caribbean, Shinichiro Kobayashi expressed the pleasure of the Government and people of Japan to be able to make a tangible contribution to the lives of grassroots Guyanese.

Kobayashi spoke well of the bilateral relations between his country and Guyana and the cooperation that ensues between the two governments. He emphasised that projects such as these bolster the strong ties that exist between Japan and Guyana.

Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) Chairman Brian Allicock, who was on hand to deliver remarks at the ceremony, was profuse in his thanks

to the Japanese for carrying out the two projects in the Region and highlighted the timeliness of these interventions in the lives of the Central Rupununi community.

In her closing remarks, Xavier, the head of the Lethem Special Needs Group as well as the Toshao of St Ignatius, Kuma and Quarrie in Region Nine, spoke to the gratitude of the people who were beneficiaries of the two projects and committed her Group to ensuring that the projects were well maintained and cherished.

Also on hand for the ceremony were: GGP Consultant in the Embassy of Japan Trinidad and Tobago, O’Neil Wills; Tatsuya Morita of Japan International Cooperation Agency in Guyana and Special Needs for Life Guyana PEO Mark Adams.

F

ollowing the devastating outcomes of what was perhaps one of the most intense hurricane seasons to hit the region, the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has announced the launch of a disaster relief fund to aid the recovery efforts currently underway in a number of Caribbean countries.

This is after four states were unable to participate in the Commonwealth Games of 2017, which prompted the Regional Conference of the Americas and Caribbean to turn attention to deliberating on ways in which the international body can lend assistance to victims of the natural disasters that have only weeks ago wreaked havoc within the region.

Emanating from the conference, the Federation has moved to set up a disaster relief fund, with hopes of commencing operations early enough to rescue those nations hit by tropical cyclones Irma, Jose, and most recently Maria.

This intention was indi-

cated by the President of the CGF, Louise Martin, while she addressed the media at the closing of this year’s forum on Sunday.

While Martin expressed her delight in participating in this year’s conference, she relayed regrets, given that four teams were unable to participate in the 2017 Games given that their countries were being pummeled by the vicious hurricanes.

On that note, she conveyed, “It is a pleasure to be here, but in many ways it is a sad occasion, because our athletes could not be here because of the hurricanes. However, yesterday (Sunday) we had workshops all day, working towards the forward plan over this next year. One of the areas we debated was what this region can do to help those affected by the hurricanes.”

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo in his address to the gathering of multi-national representatives, said, “We would like to request that, in your

games, you could think about symbolic events dedicated to raising funds and other assistance for our citizens in the Caribbean.”

He pointed out that the intervention of Governments is not enough, given the extent of the damages left behind by the string of hurricanes which have hit the region.

The Prime Minister is now heading a ministerial task force, in partnership with Civil Defence Commission (CDC) and Risk Reduction Platform, which seeks to provide support to the affected islands as they embark on both short and long term reconstruction.

As such, both the task force and the impending regional disaster relief fund are geared at offering direct assistance to ensure the recovery of the Caribbean states, particularly the more affected nations such as St Martin, Dominica, the British Virgin Islands, and to some extent Antigua and Barbuda.

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tuesDAY, september 26, 2017

Regional

US travel ban is psychological Hundreds leave danger zone near terrorism – Venezuela crumbling Puerto Rico dam

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enezuela has accused the United States of “psychological terrorism” after it imposed travel restrictions on some Venezuelan Government officials and their families.

The Foreign Ministry said travel bans like the one announced on Sunday were incompatible with international law.

The ban on eight countries includes Venezuela for the first time.

US President Donald Trump said the countries on the list had “inadequate” security protocols.

Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria, Venezuela and Yemen are all now subject to US travel bans.

In regards to Venezuela, President Trump said its Government had failed to share “public-safety and terrorism-related information adequately”.

“I must act to protect the security and interests of the United States and its people,” he said in a presidential proclamation issued on Sunday.

The statement by the Venezuelan Foreign

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Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza condemned the new expanded travel ban

Minister [in Spanish] called the decision “irrational”.

Venezuela and the US have had tense relations for years.

They have further deteriorated in the past months as the US imposed sanctions on more than a dozen top Venezuelan officials, including President Nicolás Maduro over what it called Venezuela’s “democratic failures”.

Any assets they held in the US were frozen and US entities were banned from doing business with them.

US Treasury Secretary

Steve Mnuchin called President Maduro “a dictator who disregards the will of the Venezuelan people”.

The US is not the only country to have imposed sanctions on Venezuela.

Last week, Canada published a list of 40 Venezuelan officials whose assets it said it would freeze.

The Venezuelan Government has also been criticised by many of its Latin American neighbours as well as the European Union for going ahead with a controversial constituent assembly. (BBC News)

Caribbean nations to UN: Extreme weather events leave no doubt climate change is real

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rinidad and Tobago’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Dennis Moses, echoing other senior Government officials throughout the General Assembly’s annual general debate, questioned how, after the spate of recent catastrophic events in the Caribbean, South Asia and elsewhere, one could deny that “climate change is real, and it is upon us.”

Shifting weather patterns, global warming and rising sea levels are impacts of climate change, he said, and extending his nation’s condolences and solidarity to those affected, empha-

sised that resources, cooperation and collaboration of the international community will be required to help rebuild and build back better.

“The events of the last months in the Caribbean once more remind us all that small island developing States remain at the forefront of the impact of climate change,” Moses said. Yet, in light of their re-categorisation based on out-dated formulae of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita, Caribbean countries will not qualify for aid and development assistance.

“I join my Caribbean col-

leagues in calling for a multidimensional approach that takes into consideration real national needs and priorities, as well as these extraordinary circumstances to provide access to development assistance, aid and debt relief, as the Caribbean Region embarks on the arduous task of recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction together,” Moses stressed.

Noting that oceans cover three-quarters of the earth’s surface and contain over 95 per cent of its water, he called “indisputable” the critical importance of its conservation. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

ost people living near a crumbling dam in storm-battered Puerto Rico have been moved to safety, Governor Ricardo Rossello said on Monday, as he urged the US Congress to fund an aid package to avert a humanitarian crisis after Hurricane Maria.

Much of the Caribbean island, a US territory with a population of 3.4 million, is still without electricity five days after Maria struck with ferocious winds and torrential rains, the most powerful hurricane to hit

Puerto Rico for nearly a century.

There have been growing concerns for some 70,000 people who live in the river valley below the Guajataca Dam in the island’s northwest, where cracks were seen on Friday in the 88-year-old earthen structure.

Rossello said he was working on the assumption that the 120-foot (35-metre) dam would collapse.

“I’d rather be wrong on that front than doing nothing and having that fail and costing people lives,” he said

in an interview with CNN. “Some of the dam has fallen apart and now we’re making sure that we can assess if the other part is going to fall down as well. ... Most of the people in the near vicinity have evacuated.”

It was unclear if the Governor was saying that most of the 70,000 valley inhabitants had left the area, or only the several hundred people living in the small towns closest to the dam. About 320 people from those towns have moved to safety, according to local media. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Dominica turned into ‘giant debris field’, gets US$19M

Hurricane Maria has killed at least 33 people so far, with the bulk of those deaths happening on the tiny island of Dominica

H

urricane Maria has killed at least 33 people so far, with the bulk of those deaths happening on the tiny island of Dominica.

At least 80 per cent of the buildings there have been damaged and most communication lines cut.

The people of this island nation of 71,000 are desperate, and some are still in shock.

The floodwaters took out the island’s power lines, so there has been no electricity for a week.

Aside from the homes, schools, and other buildings,

markets were also flattened, leaving little food for the population.

A 78-year-old man told Al Jazeera he had not eaten in days.

“When it hit I was in my house, and I stood outside to see it. It was getting so strong so I moved and then a roof collapsed right where I was,” he said.

Aid operations are still in their early phases, but what cannot wait is water supply.

Given the magnitude of the destruction, many parts of Dominica no longer exists.

Once a bustling island full of life, music and culture,

the country of Dominica has been reduced to being one giant debris field.

Officials and aid workers said it could take months, if not years to rebuild what has been destroyed.

Meanwhile, the country will get a just over US$19 million payout from the CCRIF SPC – formerly the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility soon.

The CCRIF announced that the US$19,294,800 payout will be made under the island’s tropical cyclone policy with 14 days of the hurricane which made a direct hit on Dominica last Monday. (Al

Jazeera and Caribbean360)

“Welcome policy” for Dominicans in place Beachgoer killed by falling

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he Antigua and Barbuda Government has thrown open the country’s doors to Dominicans ravaged by Hurricane Maria.

A meeting of the Cabinet sub-committee responsible for natural disaster planning and response met on Saturday to address the anticipated influx of people from Dominica.

According to a release from the Office of the Prime Minister, a set of policies to receive OECS/Dominican citizens who may seek refuge here was devised at the meeting.

The release stated that

there would only be two legitimate ports of entry, the VC Bird International Airport and the Montserrat Ferry Dock at Heritage Quay.

Second, it noted that Dominicans have a right of entry and an automatic sixmonth stay, and may present their passport, driver’s licence, or voter’s identification card to gain entry.

“Those citizens of Dominica who do not have any of the agreed identification will be permitted to enter Antigua, after completing a form which the Antigua and Barbuda Immigration Department has construct-

tree in Trinidad

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Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne

ed specifically to meet the needs of those who have lost their documents in the hurricane,” the release noted. (Excerpt

from Antigua Observer)

beachgoer was killed and another was injured by a tree uprooted during a mini freak storm at the popular Granville Beach, Cedros, on Sunday.

Police were still trying to identify the dead man Sunday night, as he was said to have gone to the beach on an excursion lime.

According to reports, just around 13:00h, several beach-goers were in the car park when strong winds began swaying the trees.

The man was reportedly

chatting with a woman who was in the driver’s seat of a silver Nissan AD Wagon when the tree fell. The man was struck on his head and fell unconscious while the woman was pinned inside the wagon.

Cedros Councillor Shankar Teelucksingh said they contacted the Cedros Health Centre, but the nurse in charge said she could not release the South West Regional Health Authority (SWRHA) ambulance as it does not respond to emergencies. Teelucksingh said Cedros Police eventually

took the man, who suffered a severe gash to the head, to the Point Fortin Area Hospital. An ambulance eventually came and took the woman to the hospital as well. The man subsequently died at hospital.

“Just before the incident there was heavy rain and a mini freak storm. Since we opened the public convenience at the beach a lot of people have been coming here on weekends, so it is really sad what happened here today.

These people that got injured are visitors.” (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

tuesDAY, september 26, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

17

Around the World

North Korea accuses US of declaring war Hopes and frustrations

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Persons at a North Korea protest march against the US

orth Korea’s Foreign Minister has accused United States President Donald Trump of declaring war on his country and said Pyongyang had the right to shoot down US bombers.

Ri Yong-ho said this could apply even if the warplanes were not in North Korea’s airspace.

The White House dismissed the statement as “absurd”. The Pentagon warned Pyongyang to stop provocations.

A United Nations spokesman said fiery talk could lead to fatal misunderstandings.

Ri’s comments were a response to Trump’s tweet that the North Korean leadership would not “be around much

longer” if they continued their rhetoric.

“The whole world should clearly remember it was the US who first declared war on our country,” Ri told reporters as he was leaving New York, where he had addressed the UN General Assembly on Saturday.

“Since the United States declared war on our country, we will have every right to make counter-measures, including the right to shoot down United States strategic bombers even when they are not inside the airspace border of our country.”

Trump’s tweet followed Ri’s fiery speech to the UN on Saturday, when he described the US President as a “mentally deranged person full of megalomania” on a “suicide mission”.

Referring to Trump’s post, North Korea’s Minister said “the question of who won’t be around much longer” would be answered by his country.

Ri’s remarks – not the first time that North Korea has used the phrase “a declaration of war” in relation to the US – are the latest in an increasingly angry war of words between the two countries.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

UN accuses Russia of violating human rights in Crimea

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ussia is committing “grave human rights violations” in Crimea, according to a report by the United Nations.

The UN human rights agency says it has documented arbitrary arrests, torture and at least one extra-judicial execution in the region.

“There is an urgent need for accountability,” UN human rights chief Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein said.

Russia annexed the pen-

insula from Ukraine after the country’s pro-Russian leader was overthrown in 2014.

In response to the report’s accusations, one Crimean official complained the account was not objective and did not reflect reality.

The UN report cites “grave human rights violations, such as arbitrary arrests and detentions, enforced disappearances, ill-treatment and torture,

and at least one extra-judicial execution”.

It adds that there have been “intrusive law enforcement raids of private properties” which “interfered with [the] right to privacy”.

The report, which says the human rights situation has “significantly deteriorated” in the region, notes that hundreds of prisoners were illegally transferred from Crimea to Russian jails.

It says civil servants were forced to renounce

their Ukrainian citizenship or face losing their jobs, and condemned Moscow’s decision to replace Ukrainian laws with Russian ones.

“Education in Ukrainian has all but disappeared from Crimean schools,” the report adds.

It is based on interviews conducted from mainland Ukraine, as human rights investigators were not permitted entry into the region.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Anthony Weiner jailed for 21 months for sexting underage girl

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x-New York Congressman Anthony Weiner burst into tears as he was sentenced to 21 months in jail for sending sexually explicit messages to an underage girl.

He pleaded guilty in May to transferring obscene material to a minor and agreed not to appeal against a prison sentence of 27 months or less.

Weiner, 53, quit Congress in 2011 over a sex scandal and was again exposed in his 2013 run for New York Mayor.

Anthony Weiner looked sombre as he left US Federal Court following his sentencing

His lawyers had asked a US District Judge for probation instead of jail.

But in sentencing Weiner, US District Judge Denise Cote said: “This is a

serious crime that deserves serious punishment.”

She also said Weiner “has a disease. He has a compulsivity. Some say a sex addiction.”

Acting Manhattan US Attorney Joon H Kim said in a statement that Weiner “asked a girl who he knew to be 15 years old to display her naked body and engage in sexually explicit behaviour for him online”.

“Justice demands that this type of conduct be prosecuted and punished with time in prison.” (Excerpt from BBC

News)

Supreme Court cancels arguments on previous Trump travel ban

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he US Supreme Court cancelled oral arguments scheduled for October to decide the legality of President Donald Trump’s previous travel ban, signalling the Court might dismiss the case.

The Court acted after the White House announced on Sunday it was replacing the

temporary executive order with a more tailored ban on eight countries that legal experts said could be harder to fight in court than the prior ban.

The Justices ordered further briefing on whether the new presidential proclamation, which indefinitely restricts travel from

Iran, Libya, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, Chad and North Korea, would render the prior case moot. Sunday’s order also bars certain Government officials from Venezuela.

The new ban is Trump’s third.

Trump’s March 6 temporary travel ban, which

replaced another ban from January and expired on Sunday, targeted six Muslim-majority countries.

It sparked international outrage and was quickly blocked by federal courts as unconstitutional discrimination or a violation of immigration law. (Excerpt from Reuters)

as Brexit talks resume after May speech

Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa May speaks at the Complesso Santa Maria Novella, Florence, Italy on September 22, 2017

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ritish and European Union negotiators talked up hopes for progress on Brexit as a new round of talks began in Brussels on Monday, three days after Prime Minister Theresa May tried to revive the process and improve the mood.

But neither side disguised continued frustrations: the EU’s Michel Barnier dismissed talk of Britain diverging from EU rules during any post-Brexit transition 18 months from now; Brexit Minister David

Davis urged him to stop stalling talks on future trade relations if he wants London to settle its accounts. ”The UK will honour commitments we have made during the period of our membership,“ Davis told reporters as he met Barnier.

“But it is obvious that reaching a conclusion on this issue can only be done in the context of and in accordance with a new deep and special partnership with the European Union.” (Excerpt from Reuters)

‘Mass Hindu grave’ found in Myanmar’s Rakhine state

Hindus have also been displaced by the violence in Rakhine and have sought refuge in Bangladesh

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he Myanmar authorities have accused Muslim Rohingya militants of killing 28 Hindu villagers whose bodies were allegedly found in a mass grave.

The army says the bodies of 20 women and eight men and boys were found in two pits in northern Rakhine state.

The state has been in turmoil since August 25 when Rohingya militants launched deadly attacks on Police posts.

Over 400,000 Rohingya have since fled an offensive

by the military, which the UN accuses of ethnic cleansing.

Hindus as well as members of the majority Buddhist population in Myanmar (also called Burma) have also been displaced from their homes by the violence in Rakhine.

The military denies widespread reports it has committed atrocities, saying it only targeted those belonging to the militant Arakan Salvation Rohingya Army (Arsa) which launched the attacks. (Excerpt from BBC News)

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guyanatimesgy.com

tuesDAY, september 26, 2017

ARCHIE

ARIES

Before starting something

(March 21- new, take care of unfinished April 19) business. Discipline will be re-

quired if you don’t want to veer off-track. Curb impulsiveness.

What you accomplish will make an impression.

Emotions will be difficult TAURUS to control. Watch your spend(April 20- ing habits and refrain from May 20) feeling compelled to pay for others to make an impression.

dilbert

A change regarding an GEMINI (May 21- important relationship will be June 20) required if you want to move forward. Look at the pros and cons and make the necessary alterations. Make honesty a priority.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

Demanding people, bosses or dependents will be hard to deal with. A disciplined approach to whatever challenge you face will help you achieve your goal. Moderation will be required.

Taking short trips, attending a lecture that offers financial advice or exploring ways to improve your domestic and professional lives will help you reach your goals.

Problems with an older VIRGO family member or your house(Aug. 23hold finances will surface if you Sept. 22) don’t take steps to deal with such matters. Stay on top of your responsibilities and avoid unnecessary expenditures.

Make personal changes LIBRA (Sept. 23- that will help you market and Oct. 23) promote what you have to offer. Make new friends and associates, and listen and learn from the anecdotes and advice you receive.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

Consider the consequencSCORPIO es of your actions before mak(Oct. 24ing a decision that will affect Nov. 22) your personal life. Emotional distress will not be worth your while. Be true to yourself and your loved ones.

A problem with a friend, SAGITTARIUS relative or someone you en(Nov. 23- counter while traveling will Dec. 21) intensify quickly if you aren’t careful about how you respond to conflict. Choose peace over discord.

YESTERDAY’S WORD – GRANTED

solution for LAST PUBLISHED Puzzle

Stay focused on what’s CAPRICORN important to you. Be careful (Dec. 22- when dealing with bureauJan. 19) cratic or institutional matters. Read the fine print and take care of your affairs personally.

If you want to negotiate AQUARIUS or sign contracts, take a close (Jan. 20- look at the fine print. Making Feb. 19) a hasty decision will cost you.

Know your boundaries and your budget.

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

If you feel pressured by a PISCES (Feb. 20- co-worker, boss or partner, March 20) take a step back. Assess your situation and be honest about the way you feel.

tuesDAY, september 26, 2017

T

rinidad and Tobago’s history-making 4x400m relay team was, on Sunday, awarded the Chaconia Gold Medal, that country’s second highest national honour at the annual awards ceremony at the National Academy for the Performing Arts in Port of Spain.

The team of Lalonde Gordon, Machel Cedenio, Jereem Richards and Jarrin Solomon as well as substitute Renny Quow set a world-leading and new national record of 2:58.12 to defeat the United States and win gold at the IAAF World Championships in London in August.

It was the first time that T&T were winning a mile relay gold medal at a major championship. The athletes who were not present at Sunday’s ceremony will be presented with their medals at a date to be announced.

President of the National Administration of Athletic Associations (NAAA) Ephraim Serrette said while being proud of the achievement, it was a bittersweet day for the association.

Just recently, Trinidad and Tobago’s Michelle Lee Ahye, who was a sprint finalist at the IAAF World Championships,

Trinidad and Tobago relay team stunned the world to win gold at the IAAF World Championships in London in August

lamented the fact that the women’s team that won a bronze medal at the 2015 championships in Beijing, but plans were being made to honour the gold medal winning

J

uventus President Andrea Agnelli has been banned for a year for his role in the sale of match tickets to mafia-linked supporters’ groups.

The 41-year-old was also fined 20,000 euros (£17,600), while Juventus must pay 300,000 euros (£264,000) and three other club officials were banned.

Agnelli was accused of helping to sell tickets - later resold at a huge profit - to ‘ultras’ fans, some with alleged links to organised crime.

He and the club plan to appeal.

Prosecutor Giuseppe Pecoraro had requested a 30-month suspension and 50,000 euro (£44,000) fine for Agnelli at the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) hearing.

Pecoraro had also called for Juventus to be ordered to play two games behind closed doors.

“I’m partly satisfied because we’ve been able to prove the guilt of everyone involved, but the findings were so serious that, in my opinion, they should have been punished more, so we’ll appeal,” Pecoraro told AFP after the hearing.

“I think going to another court will be useful, bearing in mind they went to organised

Andrea Agnelli was recently appointed President of the European Club Association

crime, and that is very serious,” he added.

Agnelli has denied dealing with Rocco Dominello, a supporter said to be close to the Calabria-based N’drangheta mafia group.

He did, however, recall meeting Dominello - who was sentenced to seven years in jail - according to AFP. The court said Agnelli was not guilty of knowingly meeting with Dominello, and wrote in its ruling he was “totally unaware” of any illegality.

Investigators had been looking into whether Juventus gave tickets to ‘ultras’ fans to avoid violence or racial abuse in

the stands that might bring fines or docked points.

Such a large number of tickets had been given out over such a long period of time that rules on contributing to fan clubs would have been violated, the FIGC ruling said, although there was insufficient proof the recipients were touts or criminals.

Agnelli, a member of the family that owns Fiat Chrysler, said in May he met the ‘ultras’ to make sure they did not feel discriminated against, and to avoid “problems of public order”.

“Obviously the sentence disappoints us, even though the charges were revised,” said his lawyer, Franco Coppi.

Six-time defending Serie A champions Juventus had said they would not request Agnelli to step down if he was found guilty.

Earlier this month, Agnelli was appointed president of the European Club Association (ECA), succeeding Bayern Munich chief executive KarlHeinz Rummenigge.

The ECA represents the interests of a group of influential clubs including Manchester United, Chelsea and Barcelona.

(BBC Sport)

men’s team in London this past summer.

This has left the NAAA president conflicted.

“It is always good that they recognised

our national athletes’ performances, but sometimes it’s bittersweet because at this time we are still trying to sort out this national sports policy and dealing with the issues of support and reward,” he said.

“So you have athletes with issues, lack of support and financial reward and then you’re being honoured at this level, so for the federation I am very happy that at this time they are trying to sort out the issues dealing with funding and reward. Once that is done there will be nobody up in arms about what you get, who gets what.”

T&T Sports Minister Darryl Smith assured SportsMax.tv that the national sports policy addressing those issues would be ready by later this year.

“We are now doing a new sports policy that includes athletes funding, the rewarding of athletes, grassroots programmes, sports tourism,” Smith had said last month.

“The draft policy has been completed and we are in the final stages of which that policy will be taken to Cabinet to be approved. Once it is approved we will have a new policy that can deal with all these things.” (Sportsmax)

President Trump "trying to divide through sport" – James

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asketball star LeBron James has praised the American football players who have protested against Donald Trump, and accused the US president of “using sports to try and divide us”.

Trump said on Friday that NFL players who fail to stand during the national anthem should be sacked or

The 32-year-old added: “I’m not going to let one individual, no matter their power, ever use sport as a platform to divide us.

“Sport is so amazing, what it can do for everyone. No matter the shape, size, weight, ethnicity, religion or whatever - people find teams, players and colours because of sport.

It brings people together like

NFL players protesting during the national anthem

suspended.

In widespread protests at the weekend, players responded by kneeling, linking arms or staying in the locker room.

James praised the players’ unity, and said: “The people run this country.”

19

none other.”

James, who plays for the Cleveland Cavaliers and has won three NBA championships, campaigned for Hillary Clinton, Trump’s rival, during the 2016 presidential election campaign.

Quarterback Colin

LeBron James previously criticised US President Donald Trump after he made comments about fellow player Steph Curry

Kaepernick was one of the first players to kneel during the national anthem last year, in protest at the treatment of black Americans.

Speaking at a Republican rally on Friday, Trump described those who knelt as “sons of bitches”, adding they should be sacked by team owners.

More than 20 players and staff from the Baltimore Ravens and the Jacksonville Jaguars knelt or linked arms before their match at Wembley on Sunday.

There was a similar response at all of the weekend’s NFL matches, with three teams remaining in the locker rooms or tunnel for the duration of the anthem.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell praised the players, saying Trump’s comments “demonstrate an unfortunate lack of respect for the NFL, our great game and a failure to understand the overwhelming force for good our clubs and players represent in our communities”. (BBC Sport)

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tuesDAY, september 26, 2017

New JFF President delivers promise of more games for Reggae Boyz

Mills signs 2-year deal with Hobart Hurricanes

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resident of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), Michael Ricketts, is making good on his promise to use the FIFA windows to give the Reggae Boyz more competition.

With that in mind, the Reggae Boyz will play Saudi Arabia on October 7 at the King Fahd International Stadium, also called Pearl of Stadiums, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia have already qualified for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, joining Iran, Japan, Korea Republic as the Asian representatives in Russia.

The Asian team finished second in their Group behind Japan to add to their qualifications in 1994; 1998; 2002 and 2006.

Ricketts, in signing off on the game stated "this is an indication of our in-

E

ngland and Sussex fast bowler Tymal Mills has joined Big Bash side Hobart Hurricanes on a two-year contract.

Mills, 25, has previously played for Brisbane Heat and has four Twenty20 caps for England.

Primarily a T20 specialist because of a back problem, he plays for Sussex in the T20 Blast, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Quetta Gladiators.

“I was really pleased when my agent said the Hurricanes were interested in me,” he told the Hurricanes’ website.

“I want to make it a long-lasting relationship, so I’m really pleased to sign on for a couple of seasons.”

His move to the Big Bash, which will run from 19 December to 4 February 2018, is subject to a ‘No Objection Certificate’ being issued by the ECB.

The Reggae Boyz’s next fixture is in Saudi Arabia

tent to continue seeking high- quality international friendly games for the senior team. This level of opposition provides an opportunity for the players and technical team to continue the rebuilding of a successful Reggae Boyz team".

National Senior team coach Theodore Whitmore has also welcomed the game stating "I anticipate a highly competitive fixture which is excellent for our plans moving forward". Jamaica has played Saudi Arabia three

times winning one; losing one and drawing the other. All three games were played between 1998-99.

The game will be played in a FIFA window. The squad will be announced later this week. (Sportsmax)

(BBC Sport)

Tymal Mills was snapped up by Indian Premier League side Royal Challengers Bangalore in March

Agar ruled out of remaining India ODIs

A

fractured finger for left-arm spinner Ashton Agar is another setback for Australia after the tourists surrendered their ODI series 3-0 to India in Indore with two matches remaining.

Agar broke the digit as Steven Smith's team were unable to defend 293

against India's rampant batsmen. He spent time off the field and, though he returned to bowl, he is now out of the tour.

"Ashton injured his right little finger whilst fielding in the match last night," the team doctor Richard Saw said. "Following the conclusion of the match he went

for x-rays which have confirmed a fracture of the finger. He will return home to Australia and consult a specialist with a possibility of surgery."

After playing in two Tests in Bangladesh, Agar was not initially part of the ODI team but was included after Adam Zampa was harsh-

ly dealt with by India's middle order in the first ODI in Chennai. Smith was critical of Zampa bowling too full in the match and subsequently preferred Agar. Zampa, who possesses a handsome IPL record, can now expect a recall for the remainder of the series. (ESPN Cricinfo)

A happy mama, Serena Williams enjoying her bundle of joy Alexis Olympia Ohanian

ICC supports fresh start for USA Cricket S The USA Cricket team in the 2013 ICC World Twenty20 Qualifier in the UAE

O

n an historic day for the sport, cricket in the United States took a step closer towards the creation of a new federation with the launch of the USA Cricket brand, unveiled on the 173rd anniversary of the first ever international sporting event – a cricket match between the USA and Canada which is now known as the Auty Cup. The brand and the new USA Cricket social media platforms, which was launched on September 24, represent a new chapter for the sport in the USA. It is the first step towards getting a new governing body up and running, until which time the sport will continue to be delivered by the ICC Americas USA Project team and the Local Advisory Groups.

The creation of a membership database that will facilitate a transparent election process will now follow with the focus on

creating a federation that can represent and unify the whole cricket community in the USA. A new Board is expected to be in place

by April 2018.

A collaborative approach to developing the new marks was coordinated by U.S. based creative agency, Adrenalin, which won a competitive pitch process and has shaped the brands of many major league sport franchises and national federations within the USA. The brand represents unity and the platforms will be the place to go for USA Cricket content.

ICC Americas USA Project Manager Eric Parthen said, “It is a very exciting day for cricket in the United States as we celebrate the past and look to the future. It is a fresh start and we are hugely encouraged by what we have been hearing from the cricket community. The conversations and progress

we have made are on track to unifying as one body for cricket in the USA. “The launch of the USA Cricket brand and the social media platforms are the first step in achieving our goal and we have produced an exciting look and feel for the federation.”

Speaking on behalf of the creative development, Dan Price, President of Adrenalin, said, “The launch of USA Cricket is the first step to introducing the sport of cricket to millions of new fans as well as providing structure and guidance to participants, old and new, across the country. We are thrilled with the new mark and look forward to the impact USA Cricket will have on the sport worldwide.”

USA Cricket can be followed on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at the handle @ usacricket. The website www.usacricket.org is coming soon. (usacricketers.com)

erena Williams remains focused on her tennis comeback just weeks after becoming a mother and will make a strong return, according to her friend Caroline Wozniacki.

Wozniacki, who was speaking at the WTA Wuhan Open Monday ahead of her first-round match in the Chinese city, said the tennis superstar had been sending her pictures of the baby girl, Alexis Olympia Ohanian.

“She’s so cute and I’m looking forward to meeting her,” Wozniacki told reporters, adding that her tennis commitments had so far prevented her visiting the new family.

Asked whether Williams was keeping an eye on the sport she has dominated for so many years, the World No 6 said: “Serena, I think she can be focused on both (the baby and tennis).

“I think she’s going to do a strong comeback but I think at the same time she’s

enjoying being a mum as well and getting that whole experience. I think it’s very special.”

Williams, 35, has said she wants to return to competitive tennis in January to defend her Australian Open title after giving birth to her daughter on 1 September.

Earlier this month two former stars who became parents questioned whether she would be able to regain top form so soon after childbirth.

Three-time US Open champion Kim Clijsters, who retired for two years and had a baby before returning to win the US Open in 2009, said it depends on “how your body reacts — everybody reacts different in those situations”.

American Mary Joe Fernandez, a runner-up at the 1990 and 1992 Australian Opens and 1993 French Open, said that she could not have done it but “Serena is an exception to a lot of rules”. (First Post)

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Todd wins Scotiabank golfing for charities tourney

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Winners all the way; from left to right, Mario Acuna, “Pandit Ravi” Persaud, Richard Haniff, Brian Hackett, Anasha Ally, Gavin Todd, Lakeram Ramsundar and another representative of Scotiabank

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as he emerged champion in this year’s Scotiabank Classic tourney at the Lusignan Golf Club on Saturday September 23. Todd is a frequent winner of similar tournament but last Saturday was his first win in which he will have a lien on a trophy - it was a significant achievement for him.

The fascinating game was witnessed by Scotiabank’s Robb Street Branch Manager, Brian Hackett with keen rivalry yet great camaraderie among 32 golfers that produced the heightened excitement on a day that was blessed with fine weather.

A special feature of the

Scotiabank Annual Golf Classic is that so far Scotiabank is the only sponsor who gives the top three finishers the great opportunity to donate a financial sum to a charity of their choice.

This year that donation is $125,000., $75,000. and $50,000. respectively. This

benevolent tradition of the bank to combine its support for golf with its commitment to local charities is only part of a generous $1.2M package of sponsorship including prizes and gifts of golf bags, balls, gloves, hats, umbrellas, flasks and other equipment that Scotiabank continued to provide this year.

In the winning lineup, Gavin - 64/19, was closely followed by Richard Haniff – 66/15, Rabindranath Persaud (Pandit Ravi) 68/21 and Lakeram Ramsundar (Panko) 70/13. Rookie Anasha Ally was pleasantly the Nearest to The Pin winner, while Mario Acuna was awarded the Most Honest Golfer prize. Most Honest Golfer prize is awarded to the player who returned the weakest score, but is offered to encourage that player to continue playing despite their performance in that particular tournament.

Brian Hackett who is the acting president of the Lusignan Golf Club expressed Scotiabank’s appreciation for those who participated and offered the bank’s commitment for continued sponsorship of competition and support of golfing in Guyana.

Soesdyke, Den Amstel & Ann’s Grove triumph on night of upsets

innows on the local football scene, Soesdyke Falcons proved to be a real party pooper when they came from behind to beat Mahaica Determinators to book a place in the quarter-finals of the Hamilton Green Cup Knockout football tournament.

When action continued on Sunday evening at the Victoria ground, East Coast Demerara, despite trailing by two goals early on, Soesdyke shocked Mahaica by hitting four past their custodian to storm in to the quarter-finals.

It was excitement from the first whistle as Ian Abel struck

in the second minute to give Mahaica the early lead, Kurt Roberts was next to get on the score sheet for Mahaica who seemed to have the game in their pocket.

However, Orin McLean pulled one back with a well taken goal in the 39th minute to leave the score at 2-1 going into the halftime break.

Three second half goals would bring heartbreak for the Determinators as Orin Joshua netted a brace in the 60th and 70th minutes while teammate John Gordon slotted home in the 71st to put the icing on the cake.

Earlier in the night,

Den Amstel’s Morgan Denny

Den Amstel notched up a comfortable 2-0 victory over

Golden Grove in game one with Morgan Denny and Jillian Payne finding the back of the net in the 7th and 57th minutes respectively.

The recently promoted Buxton/Bakewell produced a good showing against seasoned campaigners Ann’s Grove but were needled as they bowed out of the tournament.

Phillip Williams was the lone goal scorer for Ann’s Grove.

All three winners are now in the quarter-final stages with five more matches to be played as teams hunt for the remaining quarter-final berths.

Action will continue on Sunday, October 1 at the

Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground with another triple header.

In the opening game, Santos FC will come up against Uitvlugt from 17:00h followed by the Western Tigers FC versus Mile Rock FC clash at 19:00h. the final game of the night brings together GFC and Eagles United from 21:00h.

The action will then shift to the McKenzie Sports Complex ground the next day, Monday October 2 with a double header. The opening fixture brings together Police FC and Silver Shatters then Winners Connection will tackle Riddim Squad.

GRFU/Bounty Farm 15s Rugby

GDF, Panthers latest to record resounding victories

in your area?

T

Contact our

Circulation Department on

Phone: 223-7230 EXT: 35 Rondell “Bull’ McArthur continues to tough wall in the Panthers” unit

he Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) Bounty Farms 15s tournament continued over the weekend in full flight with Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and Panthers dishing out some hammering victories in the National Park, Georgetown.

On Sunday, the army made light work of Pepsi Hornets by inflicting a humbling 41-10 victory.

GDF blazed to a 15 – 3 half-time score via tries from Cloyd Prowell, Dwayne Schroeder and winger Patrick King. For Hornets, Ryan Gonsalves managed to make good of a penalty.

In the second half Rodwell Hudson joined King and Prowell on the ‘try line’. Schroeder then scored two conversions, while Prowell had one. Rickford

Cummings scored the lone try of the game for the Hornets, while Gonsalves scored the conversion.

Likewise, Panthers stormed to their second win when they trounced Yamaha Caribs 39 – 0.

The rout was led with tries from Rondell ‘Bull’ McArthur, Godfrey Broomes, Malcolm Rhodia and Lancelot Adonis which saw the team 20 – 0 at the end of the first half.

In the second stanza it was all Lloyd Anderson who scored 17 points in the second half – three tries and a conversion – while Broomes made good of one conversion.

Action resumes Saturday when Hornets clash Guyana Police Force (GPF) Falcons, and the GDF facing off with Panthers. Match time 16:00h.

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GUYANATIMESgy.COM

tuesDAY, september 26, 2017

Indigenous Heritage Games Football 2017…

Determined Port Kaituma hoist championship trophy …Parima retain female title

...Moruca sweep volleyball competition

Captain of the female Moruca volleyball team, Annalisa Vincent collects the championship trophy

P

ort Kaituma male football team dominated Waramadong in the final of the annual Indigenous Heritage Games football tournament on Sunday evening when they ran out 2-1 winners to hoist the championship trophy and pocket the winning purse of $325,000 and also took home a beautiful trohpy.

Waramadong’s youthful team and general diminu-

tive physical make up impeded their ability to really penetrate Port Kaituma’s defence as they were constantly bullied off the ball.

Port Kaituma of Region Number One were the more aggressive of the two sides as they attacked from the first whistle going close to taking the lead on several occasions.

However, they were not to be denied as Cornell St Romain struck from just

outside the box to beat the Waramadong custodian and hand his side the lead in the closing minutes of the opening half.

At the interval, the new champs were enjoying a small but significant 1-0 lead. Upon the resumption, Region One had a penalty disallowed when the players encroached the penalty area, however they took a 2-0 lead shortly after through Floyd Thomas and from then on

there was no looking back.

Waramadong pulled one back through a consolation effort from Lynden Joseph who scored in the late stages of the game to give the Region Seven fans something to cheer about. Leroy Domingo of Port Kaituma was adjudged the Most Valuable Player while Kieron Solomon of the 2016 champions, Mabaruma was the tournament’s leading goal scorer.

Port Kaituma will have their name inscribed on the Lien Trophy. Waramadong won $275,000 and a trophy for their spirited effort.

The final of the female football tournament between 2016 champions and Central Rupununi was decided from the penalty spot after 70 minutes of regulation time and 15 minutes of added extra time failed to produce any goals from either side.

For the second successive year, Parima won the trophy

as they held their nerve to edge out Region Nine, 3-0 on penalties. Both sides missed their first attempt from the spot but Parima settled down quickly and began finding the target. However, Central Rupununi seemed anxious and their next three attempts were sent powerfully but too wide and high of the uprights. Hitting the target for the repeat champions were Olivia Oselmo, Betsy Gonsalves and Jean Edmond. The Most Valuable player of the tournament was 14-year old Narisa Dick of Parima while Region Nine’s Sonia Griffith was the highest goal scorer.

Parima now have their second inscription on the Lien Trophy and pocketed $325,000 while Region Nine won $275,000 and a trophy.

Meanwhile, new champions were crowned in the volleyball tournaments which ended under lights also on Sunday. Defending male champions, Orealla of

Region Six were dethroned

by Moruca of Region One after the two teams made it through to the final of the very competitive tournament. Vance Harding of Region One was adjudged the Most Valubale Player.

It was a clean sweep for Moruca as their female side also won their competition.

The talented ladies were challenged by Mabaruma, also of Region One in the final. Captain of Moruca, Annalisa Vincent was the female tournament’s Most Valuable Player. The champions in both categories pocketed $50,000 while $25,000 went to the losing finalists. Trophies were also handed out.

The annual Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs Heritage games began last Friday September 22 at the Everest Cricket Club ground and concluded on Sunday evening with a large gathering of spectators attending the three-day event.

Corona Football Konta & Sloane winners rewarded handsomely

Stephens miss out in China

B

Outstanding performers pose with their symbols of hard work. Troy Mendonca, third from right and Gabriela Chapman (centre) share the moment

T

he top four teams and the individual winners of the inaugural Corona Invitational Football tournament which ended on Sunday September 17 at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) were presented with their respective prizes at a simple ceremony held at the Brandsville Hotel, Campbellville on Monday.

The exciting tournament was contested with two groups consisting of six teams each. After a round-robin phase, the top four from the respective groups advanced to the knockout phase.

At the end of that phase Guyana Police Force FC defeated Georgetown Football Club (GFC) 4-0 in the final while Western Tigers beat Northern Rangers 2-0 to take the third- place play-off.

The first place prize was one million dollars and the championship trophy while second to fourth pocketed $400,000, $200,000 and $100,000 respectively and the corresponding accolade.

Best goal keeper was Darius Frank of Guyana Police Force FC, the Highest goal scorer with 13 conversions went to Andrew Murray Jnr of Western Tigers while the Most Valuable Player was Dwain Jacobs, captain of Guyana Police Force FC. Top Brandz Distributors Representative Gabriela Chapman said that they were very proud to be associated with the tournament and all of teams made the company extremely proud and they look forward to partnering once more with the Petra Organization, the organizers of the tournament which attracted teams from Georgetown.

Co- Director of the Petra Organization Troy Mendonca applauded all of the teams for the spirt shown and was enthused by the level of intensity showcased.

The other teams that featured were Campton FC, Santos FC, Pele FC, Beacons FC, Riddim Squad, Flamingo FC, Black Pearl and East Ville FC.

ritish number one Johanna Konta's poor run continued as she was beaten by unseeded Ashleigh Barty in the second round of the Wuhan Open in China.

World number seven Konta had the chance to serve for the match but lost 6-0 4-6 7-6 (7-3) to the Australian.

The 26-year-old has lost five of her past seven matches since reaching the Wimbledon semi-finals.

Defending champion Petra Kvitova also fell as she lost her first-round match against Peng Shuai.

The Chinese world number 24 beat 11th seed Kvitova of the Czech Republic 7-6 (9-7) 6-7 (5-7) 7-6 (7-3) in an entertaining encounter.

Konta, who is eighth in the race to qualify for the WTA Finals, received a first-round bye but lost the first seven games against Barty as she struggled for rhythm.

She saw out the second set and served for the match at 5-4 in the third, but a wide forehand smash on break point allowed Barty to force a tie-break.

Barty, ranked 37th in the world, then dominated the tiebreak to move into the third round.

"I was unfortunate not to have come through but I think that's also a part of sport and it's part of tennis - you can't be successful and win all the time," Konta said.

"These are the different challenges I'm facing, but in the long run this all makes me a better player and a better competitor."

Earlier, US Open champion Sloane Stephens lost her first-round match in straight sets to world number 55 Wang Qiang.

American Stephens was beaten 6-2 6-2 by Wang of China, just hours after fellow US Open finalist Madison Keys lost to qualifier Varvara Lepchenko.

"It's difficult. It's the end of the year. Even though I played five tournaments, I feel like I have played 25," said Stephens. (BBCsport)

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesDAY, september 26, 2017

23

GHB/GTT National Indoor Championships 2017…

National ladies thrash SIDM 11-0 in opener A

s the G T T National Indoor Hockey Championships got underway at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Monday evening, the National Ladies team delivered their potency with an 11-0 drubbing of SIDM in the opening fixture.

With the growing shadow of the FIH Pan American Indoor Tournament looming, the national team is sure to get some much needed practice in the GTT Championships and it was fitting that they got the tournament underway with the first game.

Playing against relative newcomers SIDM the National team looked every inch the well-oiled unit that Coach Dwayne Scott is trying to build. They stringed together some attractive plays with clinical pass-

ing and control. Their dominance ensured that they swept aside SIDM 11 goals to nil.

Scott had earlier told Guyana Times Sports, that players such as Trisha Woodroffe, Minsodia Culpepper, Aliyah Gordon and Kerensa Fernandes would be integral to his team and it proved on the opening night of the six-day tournament.

Woodroffe was lethal in the offensive third as she scored in the 11th and 36th minutes while Fernandes claimed a hat-trick getting past the SIDM goalie in the 15th minute and twice in the 26th minute.

Aliyah Gordon had a good game and was the architect of most of the team’s attacks getting on the score sheet herself in the 9th minute. Marzana Fietdkou will be one to keep an eye on as she also got a piece of the action in the eighth and 38th minutes respectively.

“Training and dedication kept me going”

Minsodia Culpepper who is quite an accomplished dribbler also struck in the 19th minute while Maria

The tournament has been sponsored by GTT for 17 years, and is the top local indoor competition that de-

Minsodia Culpepper (white) fires one home!

Munroe recorded a double in the 12th and 40th minutes.

After a seven-year hiatus, the local telecommunications giant has sponsored the tournament as the Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) stages the first championship on the newly installed tile floor.

termines the annual national champions.

However the competition commenced early this year as the GHB gears up for the Indoor Pan-American Cup to be contested in mid-October of this year.

In order to prepare for the International event, the GHB is using the National

̶ Ricardo Adams eager to showcase talent at senior level

By Akeem Greene

C

rafty left-arm spin and pugnacious batting are two attributes that will come to mind if one is asked to describe Ricardo Adams as a cricketer.

His years of knocking at the doors for senior duties has been rewarded with a selection on the Twenty20 squad for the 2nd annual ABCA Independence T20 Tournament slated from October 6 to 14 in Antigua.

“It is very pleasing to be selected because I have been working hard in training. Training and dedication kept me going and as long as I work hard and with time anything is possible,” the former National Youth player told Guyana Times Sport on Monday.

Playing for this native Essequibo in the on-going Guyana Jaguars Franchise three-day league, Adams has been blowing up headlines for either stellar performances with bat or ball.

Most notably, he blasted a whirlwind 145 not out against Lower Corentyne and just last weekend he made a majestic 116 not out humbling the powerhouse of Georgetown by putting their bowlers to the sword with some counter-attacking innings which helped his side register another victory and stay at top of the points table.

Ricardo Adams now has an opportunity to perform on the big stage and stake a claim for more consistent selection

“I rate that innings [116 not out] as one of the best because it’s always nice to score a 100 against top teams like Georgetown.

Essequibo has been playing as a team and the guys are gelling well. We have lots of experience in the team,” the 22 year-old contended.

With the limelight not set to be on the player, where much pundits of the sport have spoken glowing about regarding his talent, he is no way daunted by the challenge.

The Wakenaam-born disclosed, “If given the chance in the playing XI. I just want to do my best in terms

of scoring runs, taking wickets and winning games for Guyana.”

The robust built player who first donned national colours in 2009 when he played in the regional u-15 tournament in Trinidad and Tobago also looks forward to getting a chance to play for Guyana in the longer formats.

“Whether it be the long version or short, it is just for me to go out there and apply myself.”

Attempting to model his career after West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo, the Police Sports Club player is grateful or the support

of his friends and family and confidentky stated that he has “plans on making them proud.”

Adams will be joined by fellow Essequibo players Ronsford Beaton and Keemo Paul in the 15-man squad. The other members of the squad consist of Robin Bacchus, Gajanand Singh, Leon Johnson (captain), Chanderpaul Hemraj, Jonathan Foo, Anthony Bramble, Sherfane Rutherford, Veerasammy Permaul, Steven Jacobs, Romario Shepherd, Christopher Barnwell, Ramaal Lewis.

Championships as a test event, to ensure all systems are in working order. To maximize the benefit to the local national teams, both male and female national teams will compete in the competition, although they will not be eligible for the trophies.

There were seven games scheduled for the opening night. See full details in ames left and the results of those games will be published in a subsequent article.

The tournament is

played in three categories; Men’s First Division, Second Division, Ladies and Male Veterans over 35 years old.

Pepsi Hikers, Old Fort, Bounty GCC, Saints, GCC Pizza Hut, Bingo Spartans, SIDM, GCC Vintage, Old Fort Warriors. Meanwhile, National ladies and Blacks and Greens, national male teams are also expected to make appearances.

The action continues daily at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall from 17:00h

GSCL/Prime Minister’s T20 Cup…

ISG to fuel inaugural stanza

Russel Jadbeer of the GSCL Inc accepts the sponsorship from manager of Industrial Supply of Guyana Inc, Thelisha Case

I

ndustrial Supply of Guyana Inc. (ISG) has given the inaugural Prime Minister’s T20 Softball Cup a major boost when they inked a handsome sponsorship deal. The highly anticipated which is organized by the Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc. will bowl off on October 27 in Georgetown.

The tournament is being held in collaboration with the National Sports Commission and the Ministry of Social Cohesion through the Department of Culture, Youth and Sport will conclude on October 29 and will be played in two categories; Male Over-45 and Male Open.

At the sponsorship ceremony which took place at ISG’s Robb and Albert Streets branch, Manager of ISG, Thelisha Case made the presentation to treasurer of GSCL Inc Russel Jadbeer. Case was elated in saying that her company is happy to be part of such a prestigious event and wished the teams well. In response, Jadbeer expressed the GSCL’s profound appreciation for the generosity of Case and ISG. Jadbeer further stated that cricket fans will witness a new dispensation of softball cricket with a number of teams both locally and overseas battling for supremacy. The three-day event will end in spectacular fashion with cheer leaders providing added entertain-

ment for the final.

Toronto Cup Masters Softball cricket tournament 2017 winners SVC Mafia and New York Hustlers, along with New York President’s X1 and Tri-State Masters are among the overseas teams that have confirmed their participation to date.

Entrance to the mega tournament is free and teams registering for the Over-45 category must submit photo identification, preferably valid passports for every member of their 15-man squad. The winning team in the Open category will take home a trophy and $600,000 while the runner up will get a trophy and $100,000. The most valuable player will ride away with a brand new Heron Motor cycle.

In the Over-45 category, the champions will be $500,000 and will also get a trophy while the losing finalist will walk away with $100,000. The Most Valuable Player will relax with a 50” television set compliments of Regal Stationery and Computer Centre.

The tournaments will be played with white balls and teams are urged to be well uniformed.

Registration forms can be uplifted from Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, 69, Seaforth Street, Campbellville, Georgetown or teams may also call 2254802 for more details.

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

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

GHB/GTT National Indoor Championships 2017…

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National ladies thrash SIDM 11-0 in opener The National Ladies on the attack on the new surface at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Monday evening

Indigenous Heritage Games Football 2017…

Determined Port Kaituma hoist championship trophy

We are the Champions! Double champions Parima ladies and new champions Port Kaituma celebrate their respective winning moments at the Everest Cricket Club Ground on Sunday night (Carl Croker Photo)

…Parima retain female title

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

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