Guyanatime 1 january 2018

Our next publication will be on Wednesday, January 3, 2018 Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 3438

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Monday, January 1, 2018

‘Together ‘We must we can reject confront poisonous new politics of the challenges’ past’ Page 5

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

UK issues warning on crime in Guyana P3

…urges tourists to drive with doors, windows locked; to avoid minibuses

Page 5

– Opposition PPP – President in New Year’s message to Guyanese

Lack of confidence in economy slowing investment – Dookhoo Page 9

P9 SWAT Commander remains under close arrest

…after busted with 30 cases of ‘smuggled’ whiskey

Dredge owner busted with P8 ganja

…released on $200,000 bail

Good Intent woman P8 withdraws death threat case

Members of the St George’s Cathedral on Sunday celebrating the dawn of a new year during the mass

Caricom to create world's 1st climate-resilient region Page 14

– incoming Chairman promises to deliver

12 witnesses to testify in P8 attempted murder case involving excon

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BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Monday, January 1 – a night retraction from 04:30h and a day retraction from 14:30h-16:00h and Tuesday, January 2 – 05:00h-06:30h

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, January 1 – 15:30h-17:00h and Tuesday, January 2 – 16:35h-18:05h

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Heavy to light rain sometimes accompanied by thunder can be expected throughout the day and into the evening, with temperatures ranging between 24 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Ranging between Easterly and East Northeasterly from 2.68 metres to 5.81 metres.

High Tide: 16:01h reaching a maximum height of 2.84 metres.

Low Tide: 09:33h and 22:05h reaching minimum heights of 0.55 metre and 0.35 metre respectively.

SATURDAY, december 30, 2017

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UK issues warning on crime in Guyana

…urges tourists to drive with doors, windows locked; to avoid minibuses

D

espite the Guyana Police Force’s announcement that it achieved a 10 per cent reduction in serious crime

by December, the United Kingdom’s Cabinet Office has maintained an unflattering travel advisory to its citizens on Guyana as a tourism destination.

In this advisory, British citizens are warned about the crime situation in Guyana, as well as the “tough” conditions of the prison system, drug trafficking, the “poor road sense” of (other) road users and dangerously driven minibuses.

The advisory was issued by the Government Digital Service; part of the UK’s Cabinet Office. It was updated earlier this year and is current as of December 31, 2017. Citing the high crime levels and low Police capacity, the advisory warns citizens to take sensible precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

“Muggings have taken place in broad daylight.

Burglary and theft from cars are commonplace.

Take sensible precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Try to avoid showing obvious signs of wealth,” the authorities warned in the advisory.

Among the precautions the advisory proposes is for persons to “always drive with doors and windows locked”. A warning is also given about travelling to specific areas. Tourists are told to avoid Tiger Bay and Albouystown, while taking extra care in Sophia, South Georgetown, Buxton and Agricola.

The advisory warns tourists to take special care in the Stabroek Market area, where “robberies are a daily occurrence”. It also recalls the January 2011 incident, when a grenade hurled at a shop killed one person. The advisory also warns tourists to avoid “walking alone around Georgetown, even in the main areas and don’t walk anywhere at night”.

Warning birding enthusiasts to be particularly vigilant, the UK Cabinet Office noted that several cases of assault have occurred in the Botanical Gardens. As such, it advised these individuals to go with an organised group if possible, and to avoid taking valuables on their person.

“If you walk along the seawall, avoid the more deserted stretches and walk at times when other walkers are most likely to be about, around 5 pm to 6 pm,” the advisory notes. “There are regular armed and violent robberies against businesses and individuals. There is a risk of passers-by being caught up in such incidents – the Police tend to respond with firearms if shot at or threatened.

“If possible, avoid travel to and from Georgetown

“Avoid using minibuses,” the advisory warns.

“They are driven dangerously and are responsible for the majority of road accidents in Guyana. Although some taxis have been the target for robbers, they remain the safest means for visitors to get around town.

Only use taxis from reputable companies. Don’t hail taxis from the roadside.”

The UK advisory warned about the high crime level in Guyana

The UK also warned tourists against using minibuses, affirming that they were responsible for most accidents and were driven by irresponsible drivers

Cheddi Jagan International Airport late at night and before dawn. There have been incidents of violence, fatal accidents caused by erratic driving and incidents of violent theft by gangs, who follow cars travelling from the airport and attack their victims when they reach their final destination,” the advisory states.

Road usage

There is a separate section dealing with driving on Guyana’s roads and throughways. The advisory urges tourists to drive defensively and warns against using minibuses. According to the advisory, minibuses are responsible for most accidents in Guyana.

“Driving in Guyana can be dangerous because of

poor road sense of road users, frequent hazards, inadequate lighting and poor road conditions in some areas. Drive defensively and limit driving at night as much as possible. The worst incidents have almost inevitably involved minibuses.

When driving at night take extra care to avoid cyclists, pedestrians, and animals.

Police statistics

According to the Police Force’s latest statistics at the end of November, there was a six per cent decrease in rape, a 27 per cent decrease in murder, a 16 per cent decrease in robbery under arms where firearms were used and a five per cent decrease in robbery under arms where instruments other than firearms were used There was, however, an 11 per cent increase in robberies where no instruments were used, a 43 per cent increase in robbery with violence and a 47 per cent increase in robbery with aggravation. Larceny from the person increased by 11 per cent, but burglary and break-and-enter decreased by three and 16 per cent respectively.

In terms of traffic cases, the Police had noted that there was a 20 per cent decrease in fatal accidents at the end of November 2017.

Serious, minor and damage accidents, the Force noted, were reduced by 10.1, 8.3 and 19 per cent respectively.

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

Happy

New Year’s Wishes

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t is customary for individuals to offer New Year’s wishes for each other, but we believe it is just as important for us, the citizens of Guyana, to make some specific wishes for our country; which we should then attempt to make become a reality. In the end, after all, a “country” is simply a reification of its people, and it is us, the people, who will benefit in the end.

Our first wish is that all of Guyana’s citizens would take their pledge with utmost seriousness: “I pledge myself to honour always the Flag of Guyana and to be loyal to my country, to be obedient to the laws of Guyana, to love my fellow citizens, and to dedicate my energies towards the happiness and prosperity of Guyana.”

The flag of Guyana, the Golden Arrowhead, represents our country, but how many of us remember what each of its colours symbolises? The GREEN represents the agricultural and forested nature; WHITE, the rivers and water potential of the country; a GOLDEN arrow represents our mineral wealth; BLACK, the endurance that will sustain the forward thrust of us, the people; and RED, the zeal and dynamic nature of nation-building -- which is the duty of all of us.

If we really honour the flag and want to be loyal to Guyana at this juncture of our history, we should zealously resist the exploitation of our mineral wealth -- which is an integral part of the patrimony of each and every one of us -- without the proceeds contributing to our development. For too long, Guyana has been relegated to the bottom of the barrel by so many of the metrics used to measure human development.

From the time it was labelled “El Dorado”, the City of Gold, our Guyana has been labelled as a country with “great potential,” but that potential was never realised.

For the first time in our history, with the discovery of massive deposits of petroleum off our shores as an independent nation, we have an opportunity to transform that potential into a reality within this generation.

When bauxite, for instance, was discovered at the beginning of the last century, we were still a British colony, and the bauxite was transferred to the US and Canada, where value was added by converting it to aluminium there, while we were left with holes in the ground. If we wish our country the best, we must ensure that the equation be reversed and the bulk of our oil wealth remains here.

For 2018, we would also wish the US Secretary General keep his commitment, which stated that since his Good Offices process did not produce a settlement of the controversy by the end of 2017, and Venezuela had precipitated in 1962 over our border fixed in 1899, he would now submit the case to the International Court of Justice. Our cause is just, and we are certain justice will be done, and the mythological Sword of Damocles that Venezuela insists on holding over our heads will be removed.

We also wish that the Government would make the interventions it promised in its manifesto: to stand by the workers of this country, which also includes sugar workers. Because of the nature of Guyana’s political cleavages, the present hands-off approach to the dire crisis precipitated by the Government’s unilateral closure of four sugar estates and the consequent firing of 5700 workers, it is almost certain that the social dislocations could degenerate into political ones, unless a more humane approach is adopted.

Finally, we would be remiss if we did not wish for the Government to also keep another of its manifesto promises: to include the Opposition into the governance structure of the country, so that greater legitimacy would be conferred on its programmes for our beloved country. A house divided cannot long stand, and we have been divided for too long. And opportunity will be presented as early as next Wednesday, when the President will meet the Opposition Leader; and we hope the President would make the right move.

New Year’s celebrations around the world: Fireworks explode over Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre during a pyrotechnic show to celebrate the New Year in Hong Kong (Reuters )

Dancehall superstar Beenie Man, who is here to help Guyanese ring in the New Year at Palm Court’s New Year extravaganza, pose with Manniram and Ravin Prashad on Sunday

Is Guyana a walkover?

Dear Editor, The recent release of the Exxon contract shows a lack of responsibility and care for the Guyanese people and the environment.

Firstly and most importantly this nonsense about no taxes for Exxon because they stuck by us is the most absurd form of reasoning I have seen in the business world.

We are doing business with them and they came here with the expectation to do business in an environment that requires taxes to be paid. An extension of 10 years on the agreement is already a great way of saying thank you for sticking by us throughout the years and that would have been enough.

Is the current administration willing to let all Guyanese not pay taxes, corporate, VAT etc, because the

citizens of this country have stuck by their side throughout all the hardships over the years? No, of course not, instead they are increasing the amount the common man and woman has to pay, while at the same time reducing job opportunities. I cannot think of a better way for the current administration to shoot itself in the foot.

In addition, they are forgetting that Exxon must recoup its operating costs before reporting any profit that will be shared. The current contract gives up the government’s ability to capture the additional revenue via taxes before reaching the net profit line in the income statement.

This would have provided an opportunity to have a more balanced agreement and would have provided an additional safeguard in terms of funds that could be used to strengthen the environmen-

tal agencies while also providing additional funds for any oil spill clean-up work that might occur and funds for any benefit needed for the seafood industry in the event of such a spill.

The only recourse left is the EIA (environmental impact assessment) that is still poorly outlined and urgently needs to be addressed.

This needs to be done as soon as possible if we are serious about protecting the Guyanese populace and serious about ensuring they are not taken advantage of.

The $300,000 that will be provided annually is not earmarked for the purpose of helping in the event of an oil spill and to forego the taxes that are supposed to be paid may be considered in some circles an act against the best interest of the Nation. Now, how is this administration going to face the hardwork-

ing citizens of our beautiful country and ask them to pay the taxes they can not afford, while giving a walkover to one of the wealthiest companies in the world. According to Forbes, Exxon paid over $100 Billion US dollars in taxes from 2007 to 2016.

The amount they would have had to pay Guyana would have been relatively insignificant to them, while being quite substantial for the improvement of our economy. Instead this administration has decided to place the burden on the backs of the citizens of Guyana. This, my friends, makes no sense and clearly slows down the journey to the “Good Life for all Guyanese”.

I am disappointed with this clearly preventable walkover.

Sincerely, Jamil Changlee

Messages

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‘Together we can confront new challenges’

– Opposition PPP

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he Parliamentary Opposition has said the dawn of a New Year offers an opportune moment for reflection on successes and failures, an assessment of strengths and weaknesses, the charting of relevant courses for personal advancement, and the move forward for the collective prosperity as a nation.

In reflecting on 2017, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has said Guyanese faced many challenges as the country’s democratic gains were challenged and the areas where other gains were made saw setbacks. However, the resoluteness of “our people proved unwavering, demonstrating that the spirit of the Guyanese people will not be broken in times of adversity. This is commendable of our people,” the PPP has said in its New Year’s message to the nation.

Although 2018 may

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

present its own challenges, the party has expressed hope that the New Year would also bring success and joy to all Guyanese.

“It is our party’s wish that all Guyanese will remain steadfast in hope, and will assiduously endeavour to work for the betterment of our nation and fellow citizens. May we all be imbued with a sense of renewal, activism and enthusiasm as

we embark on a New Year.”

“As we herald the beginning of a New Year, the People’s Progressive Party takes this opportunity to extend to Guyanese at home and in the Diaspora, and their extended families, best wishes for a peaceful, prosperous and productive 2018. The PPP would also like to take this opportunity to commend and recognise the growing support of our Guyanese brothers and sisters both locally and overseas. This strengthens us and fortifies our resolve, so that together we can confront whatever challenges the New Year can bring,” the party said in its New Year’s message.

“May our humanitarian spirit remain strong as we keep in thoughts and prayers those who have been placed at a disadvantage,” the PPP added.

“Once again, best wishes for a joyous New Year!” the PPP concluded.

IAC New Year’s Message 2018

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he Indian Action C o m m i t t e e (IAC) wishes all Guyanese a happy and prosperous New Year.

The IAC, in its vision for a happy and prosperous 2018, wishes to have a safer and secure society; to observe improved relations between the Government and the Opposition; that a special public programme be established for the benefit of the thousands of dislocated sugar workers who are currently facing severe economic hardship and a bleak future; to see the retraining of, and issuing of, former sugar lands to retrenched sugar workers; to witness the allocation of commercial spaces for small vendors; to see

the urgent repair of the crumbling Linden-Soesdyke Highway; to have more overseas markets for Guyana’s rice production; to view drastic reductions in incidents of spousal abuse, substance abuse, and suicide; to observe increased gold production to offset decline in gold prices in 2018; that the development of the petroleum industry in Guyana be characterized by a wide national participation in all of its sectors, especially management; to notice improved educational standards to counter declining results, especially in Mathematics and English; to have increased youth employment both on the coast and in the hinterland; and to see improved

living conditions for the less fortunate elderly citizens.

The IAC wishes to inform all Guyanese -- especially those of IndoGuyanese origin -- that the organization will continue to pursue vigorously its three foci: cultural, educational and social work.

A high point will be the observance of the 180th year since the first batch of Indian indentured immigrants was brought to these shores.

The IAC encourages all citizens and leaders to make 2018 a peaceful and progressive year, in which the economy experiences growth and development, which is necessary for social cohesion and national unity.

‘We must reject poisonous politics of the past’ – President in New Year’s message to Guyanese

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resident David Granger, in his New Year’s message to the nation, said “Guyana is changing for good”, and his Government is “promoting the good life for all”.

“We are reducing divisions and maximising cohesion. We are protecting our patrimony, pursuing economic prosperity, promoting respect for national institutions, and providing better public services and improved human safety. We are building a country of which everyone can be proud,” the President said in his message.

“We shall continue to work with all sectors and strata of society to improve our political culture and promote inclusiveness. We must repudiate vulgarity. We must rebuke those who abuse our public institutions, and reject the poisonous politics of the past,” he posited.

According to Mr Granger, Guyanese greet the dawn of 2018 feeling good about themselves, their children, their communities, and their country.

“Guyanese have inherited and inhabit a beautiful, bountiful, and blissful country – a land that is celebrated in the words of our beloved National Anthem as the “Green Land’: …of rivers and plains; made rich by the sunshine, and lush by the rains; set gem-like and fair, between mountains and sea.”

Guyana, indeed, is a gemlike, luxuriant land – of grasslands, highlands, islands, wetlands, lakes, mangroves, mudflats, rainforests, rivers and waterfalls. We are happy in our homeland.

“We shall protect our heritage, which is every citizen’s birthright, and bequeath this endowment to future generations,” the President said.

“We signified in the year 2016 that the year 2017 would be spent in setting the settlement of the unlawful and unreasonable claims to our country’s territory on a definite course. The United Nations Secretary General, in 2018, is expected to discharge his commitment to setting that course in a manner consistent with justice and international law. We shall continue to defend every ‘blade of grass’ of

President David Granger

our homeland. We shall never cede a centimetre of territory, or compromise (our) sovereignty.”

The President further stated: “We shall continue to work to eradicate the inequalities and disabilities which foster destitution and discrimination. We are creating a more equal society – one with greater opportunities and a higher quality of life for all. We extend open arms of friendship to all political parties, social organisations and religious groups to collaborate in order to contribute to creating a more cohesive society. We shall continue to work to provide greater social protection for everyone, particularly our women, children, the elderly, and persons in difficult circumstances.”

The President also noted that his Administration increased the minimum wage for the lowest-paid State employees by nearly 50 percent. “…we increased old-age pensions by almost 50 per

cent; we increased social assistance by 27 per cent, all in only thirty months. We will ensure that the disadvantaged are protected,” he said.

“We shall continue to work to empower local government organs, so that they can bring improvements to communities. Local democracy will be renewed in local and municipal elections in 2018,” the President added.

We declared three new ‘capital towns’ last year, to expedite enterprise and economic development in their respective regions by increasing investment and generating employment.

The surge in agro-processing, artisanal manufacturing and cottage industries seen in the regional agricultural and commercial exhibitions is evidence of the green shoots of healthy grass-root economic growth.

“We shall continue to work towards making the country safer for all by improving citizens’ security. Security sector reform, being undertaken with support from our international partners, aims at creating safer communities and protecting the people from transnational threats, such as illegal narcotics, firearms, and people-trafficking.

We are building a country in which everyone can be safe,” he stated.

“Life is getting better year by year. Guyanese have lots of reasons to feel good about their homeland in 2018! A happy New Year to all!” the President concluded in his New Year’s message.

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By Wendy Schuman

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ew Year’s Day is the traditional time to celebrate a new beginning, and children ages 7-12 are at the ideal stage to learn to make resolutions, experts say. “They’re still young enough that their habits are not firm,” says Christine Carter, PhD, author of Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Children and Happier Parents, and a teacher for an online class on helping children develop happiness habits. “They’re old enough to think about what a New Year’s resolution is and to make their own – yet parents can still help guide them. They’re not going to get the same backlash as from a teenager.”

Jennifer Kolari, a parent, child therapist and author of Connected Parenting, says, “They’re beginning to be mindful and to understand others’ perspectives. They’re doing more independently, and they’re starting to open up to broader goals of how to become their best selves.”

Making resolutions with your children can be fun and exciting, a time for growth and change, and an opportunity for family bonding.

As parents, it’s important to practise what you preach.

“Do you believe in, make, and keep resolutions?” asks Robin Goodman, PhD, a clinical psychologist and

guyanatimesgy.com

Foundation

art therapist who has written books on children and stress. “You have to walk the walk and talk the talk to be most effective.”

Bring your own resolutions to the kitchen table.

“This is a great thing to do as a whole family,” Kolari s a y s .

“That’s how we do it with our three children.

Children look to you to learn how to approach this task.”

“If what you want is for your children to be out the door earlier, you need to work on yourself,” Dr Carter says. “I saw that when I was consistently ready at the time I wanted to leave; it was possible to ask my children t o make changes. Let’s not ask them to do more than we are willing to do.”

Keep a positive approach to resolutions

There’s a celebratory feeling to setting goals on New Year’s that doesn’t exist at other times of the year.

“It’s about happiness!” says

Meg Cox, author of The Book of New Family Traditions: How to Create Great Rituals for Holidays and Everyday.

“Present it optimistically: Every day’s a new day, and you have a chance to reinvent

es,” Dr Carter says. “Point to the bright spot where they’re doing something well.”

Have them think of things they can do now that they couldn’t do last year. Say your 10-year-old taught himself to play a difficult song on the piano. Did that success come about because he pushed himself a little harder?

Remind him

“What are some of the great things you want to do this year? What do you want to improve? What will make

also include what Kolari calls “material goals,” such as collecting Silly Bandz or Barbies. “Don’t say, ‘That’s not a good goal,’” she says.

B e open to what’s important to them.

“It’s a g r e a t way to have a meaningful conv e r s a tion with your children and see what they’re thinking.”

Narrow down the resolutions list

yourself.

A lot comes from your tone. If you’re putting it in a punishing, preachy way, they’ll be turned off.”

Start by going over the positive things your children accomplished last year.

“Instead of pointing out shortcomings, be the historian of their previous success-

y o u r l i f e b e t ter and happier?” how far that little bit of extra effort took him. Ask your child, “How can you transfer your success on the piano to something else?”

You’ve set the stage.

Next, look ahead and ask,

Suggest – don’t dictate resolutions

The big question parents have at this point: Should you make resolutions for your child? Most experts say no. You can guide and suggest general categories for change, help your child clarify goals, and make sure they’re age-appropriate, but children should come up with resolutions themselves. This is how they take ownership of their goals and learn to plan.

The first step is to listen, Kolari says. “Ask them what they want for themselves. If it’s your agenda that’s driving the conversation, you’re not listening.”

Still, most children need a little guidance. Come up with three or four broad categories – such as personal goals, friendship goals, helping goals, and school goals – and let them fill in the specifics. Cox, who also teaches workshops on family traditions, suggests parents ask, “Are there things that you could do better or differently? For instance, how should you take care of yourself or treat other people?” If they draw a blank, you could offer some examples, such as being nicer to siblings, sharing better with friends, or helping more at home.

Your children might

The imp o r t a n t thing is not to end up with too many resolutions. “Honestly, two or three are reasonable,” Kolari says.

“We don’t want to teach our children it’s about making a huge list of resolutions and not following through,” Dr Carter says. “So help your child narrow them down to a couple of things to focus on.”

Take a fresh sheet of paper and have your child write down her top three resolutions, leaving a large space between each one for inserting smaller steps.

Help your child make them realistic and age-appropriate.

“Be concrete, specific, and manageable,” Dr Goodman says. “As with adults, vague but good-sounding resolutions don’t make for change.

For example, ‘I will behave better’ is too general and will be out the window fast.”

Encourage goals that are within their reach, so they don’t get discouraged.

Some realistic resolutions for children might be “I’m going to keep my room neater”; “I’m going to be a better friend”; “I’m going to read more” or “I’m going to get better at tennis.” Even these are broad resolutions that need to be broken down into doable, step-by-step pieces.

Let your child make the list fun and personal, Cox says. “My son Max always did little drawings on his – a few words and lavish illustrations.” (Excerpt from parenting.com)

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Transparency & accountability

Govt backtracks on promise to present info to National Assembly …Ministries of Communities, Public Infrastructure among culprits

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson

PPP/C Chief Whip Gail Teixeira

Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan

hile examining the 2018 Budget estimates, the parliamentary Opposition had demanded information from the Government on several line items. As some of this information was not at hand, several Ministers promised to have it laid in the National Assembly at a later date.

Fast forward to 2018 and while some Ministries have presented information to the National Assembly on their spending plans for the New Year, other Ministries were not so transparent. During the Party’s end-of-year press conference, People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Chief Whip Gail Teixeira identified the Ministries of Public Infrastructure and Communities as the delinquent parties.

“We have only received some of the responses… but mostly from some of the questions we asked at the Ministry of the Presidency,” Teixeira told media operatives. “The ones on Infrastructure, we have not received them.”

“And remember Local Government (Ministry of Communities) was the one where a lot of questions were raised and we also put blame to the Speaker

that this is the most delinquent Ministry (pertaining to) laying over information. We still have not received anything from Local Government and Infrastructure.”

Earlier in December, over $6.5 billion was approved for the Ministry of Communities in Budget 2018. Of this sum, $1 billion was allocated for subventions to Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC) and municipalities.

However, Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan was at the time unable to provide all requested information on the budgetary allocations, prompting his request for leave to present the information within 48 hours.

Teixeira had immediately complained to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland, about Bulkan’s track record of failing to present information. This had caused Bulkan to complain to the Speaker about attacks on his character, but Dr Scotland scolded the Minister about the need to present information requested to the House.

In the case of the Public Infrastructure Ministry, commitments were also given by the

senior Minister (David Patterson) to provide certain documents. The parliamentary Opposition had acquiesced to this request on the condition that the information would be presented by the following week.

Guyana Times understands that additional information was provided by the Ministry of Social Cohesion and the Ministry of the Presidency. In the case of the Social Cohesion Ministry, it provided clarifications about financing for the International Decade of People of African Descent (IDPAD).

The Ministry of the Presidency provided information on its contract employees. This, however, led to more questions than answers as these workers were shown to be earning huge sums for jobs, some of which required no tertiary qualifications.

One such instance is whereby contracted cleaners account for a net salary of over $206,000 per month, inclusive of gratuity and vacation allowance. A Typist Clerk is paid over $170,000 per month, inclusive of these benefits as well, while a contracted driver makes a total of $219,000.

In the case of

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A d m i n i s t r a t i v e Assistants, their net salary range is $492,000, while an Administrative Officer makes $551,000 and the Administrative Manager makes almost $1.5 million, inclusive of gratuity and vacation allowance.

The two highest paid contracted staff within the Ministry are Senior Executive Director of the Public Service College, Retired Colonel Lawrence Paul ($1.9 million); and Director of Training, Calvin Benn ($1.8 million).

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12 witnesses to testify in attempted murder case involving ex-con

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welve witnesses are expected to testify in the attempted murder case in which known ex-convict Lennox Cort shot Jamal Lewis during the course of a robbery.

This was revealed by Police Prosecutor Neville Jeffers on Thursday last as he provided Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan with an update on the status of the investigation.

Cort, a construction worker, was in November last remanded to prison

by Principal Magistrate

Ex-convict Lennox Cort

Judy Latchman for offences which are alleged to have been committed against two separate victims in June 2017. Cort is accused of discharging a loaded firearm at Jamal Lewis with intent to murder him on June 19th, 2016, at South Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

He is also alleged to have robbed Jarm Persaud of a Samsung Galaxy S4 phone valued at $80,000, on the said date and at the said location, whilst armed with a dangerous weapon (gun).

This case is now be-

ing heard before the Chief Magistrate. However, the robbery matter was on Thursday transferred before the Court Five magistrate.

Media reports indicate that the accused has similar matters pending before other courts in Georgetown, and had previously served an eighteen-month sentence for assaulting his girlfriend in 2014. He is also reported to have served twelve months for escaping from lawful custody a few years ago.

Good Intent woman withdraws death threat case

A

man who allegedly threatened to kill the woman with whom he used to live was placed on a one-year bond to keep the peace behaviour when he appeared at the Wales Magistrate’s Court last week.

The Virtual Complainant (VC), 42-year-old Simone Glasgow, of Good Intent Village, West Bank Demerara, opted against pursuing the matter. The former accused, Travis Garret was said to have used threatening language against Glasgow at Murphy

Wales Magistrate’s Court

Street, Good Intent, when he threatened to kill her during a heated argument.

She promptly reported

the matter on December 4 at the Wales Police Station which caused him to be arrested and charged. From

the witness box on Thursday last, Glasgow under oath informed the court that she would not offer evidence against the defendant.

She further told presiding Magistrate Annette Singh that she did not intend to live with Garret again who denied that he ever threatened to kill Glasgow.

As such, Magistrate Singh dismissed the matter against him and placed him on a one-year bond to keep the peace. She stressed that should Garret breach the court’s order, he will spend one month in jail.

Dredge owner busted with ganja

…released on $200,000 bail

W

hen he made his first appearance on Thursday, in Court One before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, Andre Gravesande stood charged with trafficking in narcotics.

The charge stated that

on December 25, 2017, at the Kingston Seawall in Georgetown, the accused had in his possession some 89.4 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking.

The accused vehemently denied the allegation, and following a successful

bail application by defence Attorney Keisha Persaud, was released on $200,000 bail. According to the defence lawyer, Gravesande is a 24-year-old businessman and owner of a dredge which operates in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni District

(Region Seven). The father of two is reported to be the sole breadwinner for his family, and is expecting a third child. He lives with his family in North Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

Meanwhile, Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore told the court that on the day in question, Police spotted the defendant with a plastic bag in his hands, displaying an attitude which aroused much suspicion. The Police approached him and conducted a search on his person, leading to the discovery of a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis. Gravesande was cautioned and taken into Police custody, where the suspected narcotic was weighed in his presence.

Moore did not object to bail being granted, but requested that the accused report on a weekly basis to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at Brickdam pending the outcome of his trial. The analyst report is outstanding, and the file stands incomplete.

The Chief Magistrate upheld the conditions suggested by the prosecutor, and urged the defendant to attend every court hearing.

She also warned him of the consequences of failing to attend court.

This case will be called again on January 13, 2017.

New Year provocations…

T

…and eyepass here’s a news item informing the nation that on Wednesday, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has been summoned to the newly-painted green State House to “discuss” the appointment of Chief Justice of Belize, Kenneth Benjamin as Chancellor of Guyana’s judiciary. The summons is reminiscent of the one that resulted in (Chief?) Justice James Patterson being appointed by President Granger as Chairman of GECOM (ag).

The meetings are necessary, of course, because the Constitution demands them to ensure that the Opposition Leader “agrees” with the appointments to these sensitive positions. There was a time when the President just had to “consult” with the Opposition Leader, but that had become a farce under Burnham, whose legacy Granger has vowed to uphold. Burnham recounted how he’d just call up Cheddi Jagan – designated the “Minority” Leader in a studied gesture to belittle him – and ask him how was the weather then hang up the phone. That was “consultation”!

So the requirement was changed from “consultation” to “agreement” – along with the reversion back to “Opposition Leader” – in the slew of constitutional changes enacted in the new millennium, intended to ensure critical State appointments had the widest possible legitimacy conferred by the leaders of the governing and Opposition parties. And it’s this principle that President Granger is once again violating – and “eyepassing” – the Constitution on, when he nominates people like Patterson and Benjamin.

Granger knows these persons are not “fit and proper” for the offices they’re being parachuted into and that the Opposition Leader is duty-bound to reject them. Take Patterson…he still hasn’t produced any evidence he was ever “Chief Justice” of Grenada as he claimed. How can you have a man who pads his résumé be in charge of ensuring the Government doesn’t pad the voters’ list??

And as for Benjamin, we at least KNOW he’s the Chief Justice of Belize. But that’s precisely the problem!! The Bar Association of that country for years has demanded he work to reduce the backlog of cases in front of him on the principle “Justice delayed is justice denied”. In 2016, Benjamin himself admitted the situation was “embarrassing” – but a year later has delivered only THREE additional rulings!!

With Guyana also having a big backlog problem, how can Granger expect Jagdeo to agree to Benjamin’s nomination? But that’s not the only problem. Did goat bite Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards after Granger himself appointed her as acting Chancellor? In what way did she fall down on the job in the year she’s been there?

Did the backlog she inherited, for instance, increase?

…on the Demerara Harbour Bridge It seems the Government of Guyana, in general, and the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, in particular, have discovered a “Bridge Fairy”. You know … like the tooth fairy who leaves money under your pillow when you lose a tooth, the Bridge Fairy will leave money for the new Demerara Harbour Bridge, which Minister Patterson still insists will kick off in 2018.

The fly in the ointment is no monies were allocated for the new bridge in the 2018 Budget just passed. Your Eyewitness knows there’s talk about a BOOT Public-Private Partnership…but shouldn’t there be monies allocated for the “Public” component? Typically, this would cover roads and approaches – like monies to pay off Ming for his Versailles land.

Now you may say, Dear Reader, the Government can always ask for monies in a Supplementary Budget!

But this is where you’d be going along with an illegality.

Supplementaries are supposed to cover “unforeseen emergencies”.

Not to keep a promise made a year ago!

…on border controversy Well, your Eyewitness was going to hold his breath yesterday for the UN Secretary General to send the Venezuelan border controversy to the World Court after Trotman claimed news of the Exxon Bonus would provoke Venezuela. He gave up.

The UN system does keep its promises, doesn’t it?

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

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Lack of confidence in economy slowing investment – Dookhoo

A

s the year 2018 commences, former Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Ramesh Dookhoo is optimistic that Government will further reduce some of the tax measures implemented on key sectors during 2017.

In a recent interview with Guyana Times, he noted that investments have slowed owing to a lack of confidence in the economy.

Government has, over the last two years, sought to broaden the tax base to

capture wider sections of society, especially those in the manufacturing sector.

However, industry members continue to decry challenges from high manufacturing costs and reduced earnings as a result of the hike in taxes. Dookhoo, a prominent stakeholder in the Private Sector, expressed that these measures were especially hurting the forestry, mining and even the retail sector.

He told this publication that with the many engagements that Finance Minister Winston Jordan has had

Private Sector stakeholder Ramesh Dookhoo

SWAT Commander remains under close arrest

…after busted with 30 cases of ‘smuggled’ whiskey

T

he Guyana Police Force confirmed on Sunday afternoon that Head of the Special Weapons and Tactics Unit (SWAT), Motie Dookie, was still in custody and under close arrest after 30 cases of illegal whiskey were discovered in a vehicle in which he was travelling.

The discovery was made when officers stopped the minibus on the Whim Public R o a d , Corentyne, Berbice to conduct a routine search.

T h e whiskey, reportedly the Johnny W a l k e r brand, was seized and the senior Police rank was taken into custody.

Dookie reportedly told

the Police that there were only ten cases of whiskey, but a search later unveiled that there were actually 30 cases.

The Deputy Superintendent of Police is still being questioned by CID officials and other superior officers about the discovery of the illegal alcohol.

“He was not able to provide us with all the necessary documentation, but is insisting that there was no wrongdoing on his part. We have questioned the driver of the minibus too. He said the alcohol was to be used at a party”, a source confirmed.

Reports surfacing Sunday claimed that the rank had es-

SWAT Unit Head, Motie Dookie

caped from lawful custody after he was detained, but when contacted, a senior police rank in ‘B’ Division denied knowledge of any escape, maintaining that the detainee was still in custody. Nevertheless, Guyana Times understands that the accused should not have been in Berbice in the first place, based on confirmation that his commanding officer never permitted him to leave Police headquarters in Georgetown.

Investigations into the matter are continuing.

with Private Sector operatives, including the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), he remains hopeful that the tax measures will be reversed.

“I’m optimistic because the Minister has reversed a number of things from before, having recognised the serious impact that [the taxation] had on businesses,” Dookhoo pointed out.

This newspaper understands that forestry experts have a delegation that has been engaging the Finance Ministry’s technical team in attempting to alter several of these measures. In fact, when the 2018 Budget was presented to the National Assembly in early December, it included the exemption of Value Added Tax (VAT) on logs and rough lumber which was a reversal of one of several measures implemented in 2017.

Dookhoo is of the view that it is only a matter of time before VAT is removed on other measures, having observed the noted uncer-

tainties that exist in the local economy.

“You saw a cry from the gold miners regarding the levels of productivity in their business – that was also addressed by Minister Jordan, [but] there’s a lot

it was this apprehension which was contributing to reduced investments.

Meanwhile, GMSA President Shyam Nokta recently highlighted that the 2017 Budget adversely impacted on the country’s man-

of uncertainty in the economy. I heard the head of the banker’s association say recently that $30 billion of loans have been approved to do projects, but the borrowers are not drawing down the money because of apprehension [towards] the economy,” he asserted.

He further noted that

ufacturing sector, saying that it caused a reduction in cash flow for businesses.

He further indicated that measures such as the recategorising of zero & standard rated items and the inclusion of VAT on forestry products and electricity have affected the growth of the sector.

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594 GDF ranks, officers promoted

W

hile they may not have gotten their customary year-end bonus, a number of Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ranks and officers can go into the new year with smiles, as President David Granger has approved the promotions of 35 officers and 559 other ranks.

The announcement was made by Army Chief-ofStaff, Brigadier Patrick West, who noted that the promotions were in accordance with Part III, Section 16 of the Defence Act 15:01 of 1977. He further noted that the promotions are with effect from January 1, 2018, except for two ranks promoted retroactively from January 1 of 2017.

“Heading the list of promotions of officers is 99426 Substantive Major Michael Shahoud, who was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel along with three other Majors.

Five Captains were promoted to the rank of Major while

Army Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Patrick West

two acting and 19 Second Lieutenants were promoted to Substantive Lieutenants.”

“Acting Lieutenant (Coast Guard) Travis Morgan was promoted to Substantive Lieutenant (Coast Guard) and headed the Coast Guard promotion

list, while 99582 Substantive Captain Althea Stuart, who was promoted to the rank of Major was the only officer promoted from the Guyana People’s Militia.”

According to the statement, Acting Warrant Officer Class 2 Eteki Stuart heads the list of other ranks promoted, while 18990 Substantive Petty Officer Everette Tudor of the Coast Guard was promoted to Senior Petty Officer and 17615 Acting Staff Sergeant Mark Bovell of the Guyana People’s Militia was confirmed in his rank.

“At the Coast Guard, 62 Ratings were promoted to new ranks while 41 were confirmed in their present ranks totalling 103. The Guyana People’s Militia promoted 58 soldiers to new ranks while conforming 12 in their present ranks. The other 386 [promotions] represented 229 newly-promoted and 157 confirmed in their present ranks in the regular Force,” the GDF announced.

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Caricom to create world's 1st climate-resilient region

– incoming Chairman promises to deliver

R

eflecting on the devastation caused by several natural disasters in the Caribbean during 2017, incoming Chairman of the Caribbean Community (Caricom), Haitian President Jovenel Moïse says the regional grouping is moving towards creating the world’s first climate-resilient region in the year ahead.

“2018 dawns for the Caribbean Community, with the prospect of seizing an opportunity out of a crisis. As we begin the rebuilding process after the devastating hurricanes of last September, as well as Hurricane Matthew, which pounded the region on October 3-4 , 2016, we do so with the aim of creating the first climate-resilient region in the world,” Moïse said in his New Year’s message.

According to the new Caricom leader, it is an absolute necessity to create a climate-smart region given the effects of climate change

nomic, social, environmental and technological resilience that is needed to produce sustained growth and development for our Community,” he added.

CSME

Haiti’s President and incoming Chairman of Caricom, Jovenel Moïse

which have brought droughts, mega hurricanes, heavy floods and unusual weather patterns, all of which adversely affect our development.

“The social and economic gains that we have made individually and collectively must be protected against the onslaught of nature. The Caricom Member States’, as well as the Region’s non-Member States’ production of greenhouse gases, is practically nil, even though they bear a disproportionate share of the consequences,” he further stated.

Moïse stated too that the goodwill and pledges which have been forthcoming from the international community at two major global conferences in New York and Paris gave the Region hope that the necessary support to achieve its objective would be forthcoming.

“Our efforts are against the backdrop of the Caribbean Community Strategic Plan for the period 2015-19, which is our guide towards the eco-

This year, Moïse said, will increase the Region’s efforts to make the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME) more effective at providing the basis for its economic growth.

“Many of the major legislative and administrative measures for the operations of the Single Market are in effect. Therefore, it is now up to all of the stakeholders in the Public and Private Sectors to ensure we derive the maximum benefit from its provisions.”

He said this would help to increase intra-regional trade, share the best human resources, and encourage entrepreneurs to expand their interests and provide the Region with a platform to move from market access to market presence in those countries with which Member States have trade agreements.

The CSME, undoubtedly, according to Moïse, remains the best vehicle for creating the economic resilience we need. “The reform process underway in our Community will allow us to conduct our affairs more efficiently and effectively and will also benefit the operations of the CSME. Our Member States, Regional Institutions and the Secretariat have been streamlining their interactions to produce the best possible results from the decisions taken by the Heads of Government and the Ministerial Councils. continued on page 15

15 CJIA expansion project to be completed in 2018 news

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…no additional finances will be required – official

G

overnment had initially announced that the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) expansion project would have been completed by 2017, but this deadline has been further extended to the last quarter of 2018, due to several challenges that were encountered.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CJIA, Ramesh Ghir, made this disclosure at the Public Infrastructure Ministry’s press conference held recently. Ghir said a slippage during the extension of the south-west runway was part of the challenges that caused this deadline to be extended.

“Towards the extreme south-west, where we are transitioning from the built up area to the swamp area, there was a slippage. That was not in the pavement area, as you can see. The aggregate work is still continuing, but it is being addressed,” CJIA Expansion

Project Manager Carmichael Thorne said.

Although there is worry that the extension would include an increase in the total sum to be expended on that project, Thorne clarified, stating that this will not be the case. “It is a time-only extension, so there is no cost attached to it…but the other issues are catered for in the contract,” he added.

Meanwhile, Ghir noted that while certain aspects of the initiative will be completed earlier in the year, the airport expansion project will now be fully completed in December 2018.

According to him, the extension of the north-east runway should be completed by July 2018, and the first 500 metres of the south-east runway by April 2018. The taxiways are set for completion in March 2018, the new arrival terminal by June 2018, while the existing terminal building by December 2018.

Ghir explained that the

Caricom to create... from page 14

We are entering the final two years of the Strategic Plan and the results of the three partners’ efforts at implementing it are beginning to bear fruit.”

But Moïse warned that the solidity and efficiency of that partnership would be “tested as never before given the magnitude of the rebuilding task ahead of us. We have to rebuild with resilience now to forestall damage in the future; in other words, to build back better. I am confident that the creativity and determination of our people will allow us to achieve that goal.”

Moïse thanked his predecessor, the Prime Minister of Grenada, Dr Keith Mitchell, for his “outstanding performance in leading the Community during one of the most difficult periods in our history.

“I look forward to build-

ing on his achievements,” he said. “With assistance from all, we shall maintain our Community on a path to sustainable development and a safe, secure, viable and prosperous society.”

Moïse said among issues he intended to advance during his tenure were those related to natural disasters and climate change.

He said Haiti looked forward to welcoming the Community to its shores in February for the 29th Inter-sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government.

“The warmth and hospitality of the Haitian people await you,” he said, while wishing all Caricom citizens “a very happy and productive New Year, as we work together to continue building a resilient Community that advances the interests of all its citizens.”

An artist’s impression of the expanded airport at Timehri

new buildings should be constructed by midyear. In addition to that, renovation and rehabilitation works may run until the very end of 2018.

The US$150 million project was scheduled to be completed within 32 months of its commencement in 2013.

However, Thorne noted that the deadline was extended to December 1, 2017, since the project would have experienced several delays.

In 2012, Guyana, under the leadership of former President Donald Ramotar, had secured a US$138 million loan from the China Exim (Export-Import) Bank to fund the expansion and modernisation project, for which the Guyana Government has injected some US$12 million.

However, when the coalition Government came in to power in 2015, the proj-

ect was put on hold, but following discussions between Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson and the contracting company China Harbour Engineering Corporation (CHEC), it was announced that the project would be continued.

Last year, Thorne had been optimistic of the project being completed by 2017. At a project update briefing, Thorne noted that

of the US$150 million, only US$37.3 million had been expended to date. Of this amount, some US$33 million was spent by CHEC, which included US$1.9 million of local funds put up by the Government of Guyana.

As it relates to the works being done, the Infrastructure Ministry’s project manager told media operatives that while the initial plan was for the northern end of the runway to be extended, because of difficulties with the terrain, a decision was taken to extend the runway from both the northern and southern ends, in order to minimise the cost.

On completion of the expansion project, it is expected to yield two air passenger boarding bridges for passengers’ arrival and departure; a 450-person seating departure area; escalators and elevators, in addition to its extended runway that would cater for larger categories of aircraft.

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Carols by Candlelight

The dream becomes a bigger reality Following the many varied performances, an ‘awareness tree’ was lit and carols were sung, which was the signature activity of the night’s proceedings. This special Christmas tree included

By Shemuel Fanfair

I

t is sometimes said that the business community could do more to enhance corporate social responsibility in Guyana; and while many large companies are on the front burner to dissipate this stereotype, the charity-based contributions of many small proprietors often go unnoticed.

West Demerara businesswoman Vanessa Persaud is one of those hard working community entrepreneurs who feel what she describes as her calling to devote her time and part of her finances to the advancement of youth and other charitable causes. This past December, she participated in two holiday season events which the Christian community in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) observed to mark this year’s Christmas celebration. These were the 18th annual Christmas Float and Motorcade, which was slated to attract almost 200 vehicles on December 10; and the Carols in Candlelight event, which was held on December 16. The latter event, which saw its second hosting, was Persaud’s brainchild.

Speaking on why she decided to pioneer the event, the CyberWorld internet café proprietor recalled that, in late 2016, she was sitting one day observing her surroundings and reflecting on the many negative categorisations that the youth would attract. Thinking that she could be an agent of change, the Phoenix Park Assemblies of God church member told

Eager children and adults at the second annual Carols by Candlelight event held at the Pouderoyen Tarmac, West Bank Demerara, where the awareness tree was lit with positive messages encouraging respect, peace, love, friendship and patience (Shemuel Fanfair photos)

Guyana Times that she wanted to highlight the less trivial aspects of the holiday, while at the same time gather everyone in cohesiveness.

“It started off being a small idea, a small vision; but then it started to grow. I believe it’s inspired by God, and I decided to get everybody together -- from Parika to as far as Vive-La-Force on the West Bank. We just want them to remember that Christmas is not all about focusing on ourselves and what we’re gonna wear, drink and eat, and how we’re gonna decorate; it’s more than that. We just want to spread some love (and) good cheer,” Persaud, in bouts of smiles, told this newspaper last month.

December 16 was the day that the Pouderoyen tarmac was graced with the Carols in Candlelight event. Though some late evening showers threatened the night’s proceedings, the brief downpour could not withstand the

might of the unified spirits of eager children and adults, who turned out in their numbers to participate in the concert-styled programme, which had over 40 items.

The activity commenced with the soothing sounds of steel pan music by the Guyana Police Force Band, which played a host of renditions of many Christmas songs and carols. Not wanting to be left out, the students of the West Demerara Secondary School complimented the sounds of their older counterparts by playing a medley of cool classics, like ‘Little Drummer Boy’, ‘Silent Night’ and ‘We wish you a merry Christmas’.

The event also included performances of dance, skits and songs. A group from the Shirley Merle Field Ridley Nursery School performed ‘Santa Claus is coming to Town’, which prompted a rousing applause from the audience.

positive messages encouraging youth to engage in uplifting behaviour which could alleviative some of the negatives that surround them.

These messages included: “Stop the bullying,” and other

signs that encourage respect, peace, love, friendship and patience.

Following the success of the caroling event, Persaud is of great optimism that it will return this year (2018).

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Determination & hard work made me a professional ... family my inspiration

By John Ramsingh

A

s we look back at the busy 365 days of cricket in 2017, we will see a big impression from a not-so-big yet remarkably outstanding player. After persistently knocking at the senior West Indies’ selectors door with his heavy scoring, Vishaul Singh finally got their nod against the visiting Pakistan team in the first Test at Sabina Park on April 21.

The left-handed batsman finished the three-match series with just 63 runs from his six innings. However, after a performance that is way below his standards, Singh went back to the drawing

boards a trend we saw when he made his First Class debut for Guyana in April 2009.

When the Alexander Village born player was just 20 years old, he made his First Class debut in a struggling Guyana team at Providence.

It was Guyana’s last match of the season and Singh’s contribution were 4 and 34. He did not play the next season but was picked again in 2010 and scored just one half century before he was placed in the wilderness.

“Cheesy” as he is called, used the setbacks as opportunities and balanced academics and playing very well over the next few years.

Singh, who played for Guyana

Windies A Team and Guyana Jaguars Vice Captain Vishaul Singh credits his family for his ongoing success

under 19 in St. Kitts in 2008 went on to the University of Guyana after completing his secondary school life at St. Rose’s High and St. Stanislaus College (sixth form).

During the period when he was in and out of the Guyana First Class team, Singh also ventured to England to develop his game. After persistently working hard in 2010, he broke a 20-year-old Kent League record of 1012 runs set by former Australian Test batsman Justin Langer.

It was the exposure in the English leagues coupled with the determination to get his professional cricketing career back on track that brought him the success he is currently enjoying.

At the introduction of the Professional Cricket League in 2014, Singh was picked again in. Upon his return this time, he made 479 runs and followed-it up by becoming the third-highest scorer with 712 runs at 50.85 in the subsequent season. The performance resulted in Guyana successfully defending their first-class crown.

Vishaul's 2016-17 firstclass season wasn't as exemplary as the two seasons that preceded it, but a callup came his way against the touring Sri Lanka A team in October 2016, where he struck 161. He was announced vice-captain of the West Indies President's XI side that played Pakistan in April 2017.

An unbeaten 135 in the threeday fixture earned him his Test cap.

While his game on the field was coming together, he met and married Trisha Persaud in August 2015 and the next year, Aaron Jace Singh was born. The proud dad however, was summoned to St. Kitts where he was asked to play for the West Indies Cricket Board’s President’s XI against the touring Indians and missed Aaron’s birth in the USA. In the first innings he made three while he was run out for 39 in the second. Yet again a trend of doing better given the second opportunity was seen.

“Cheesy” credits his strong family bond for his success since it was his dad, Hardat “Pep-pee” Singh who took him to the Gandhi Youth Organization (GYO) to begin playing competitively.

At the age of 10 years old, playing for the East Bank of Demerara against the famous Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) that he was invited to play for the club that he eventually made his second home.

Now that he has a family of his own, Singh said “My family support is too big to describe.

From my parents now to my wife and son. They drive me to keep going.”

Singh who has 463 runs from six matches this season in the Guyana Jaguars’ quest for a fourth consecutive title has a short but strong message for everyone in sport, “To be a professional in any sport and to be successful hard work is the only ingredient.”

The Alimohameds...

Some pundits of the sport have touted the nippy medium pacer and hard-hitting batsman as one of the team’s ‘X-factor’ and it’s a brand that the player plans on embracing.

“I will just go out and play my natural game, stick to the basics and everything should work. The coach [Graeme West] told me keep working on both my batting and bowling and he wants me to play a role similar to Keemo Paul by winning matches for the West Indies U19.”

Inspiration

Though an abundance of

talent and a strong support base, there was a time the 19 year-old had thoughts of ‘throwing in the towel.’

“Last year during GCB three-day Franchise league I was going through a real rough patch and Christopher Barnwell sat with me and said in your cricket career there will always be a bad patch

From page 21

at some point in time and its lucky you got it when your small. It gave me a lot of confidence since I thought about it and began looking back at cricket videos and gained inspiration.”

The advice worked since this year he was adjudged the Most Promising Player of the League, with an aggregate of 447 runs and 13 wickets playing for West Demerara.

Digging deep

Ronaldo is conscious of the stakes at hand and plans not to get flustered in the moment by remember those who have been in his corner supporting and where the love for the sport emanated.

“I will remember my mom since she was would always cheer me on every morning when I leave to go play, she would always say good luck and make runs and take wickets. I plan on making my family and the Caribbean proud.”

monDAY, january 1, 2018 | www.guyanatimesgy.com

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sports

The Alimohameds:

A family dreaming of a World Cup hero

By Akeem Greene

L

egendary basketball player Michael Jordan once said “just play. Have fun. Enjoy the game.” By all accounts the Alimohameds have instilled the same concept into their Windies under-19 player, Ronaldo Alimohamed.

Ronaldo left Guyana on Wednesday, for what is hoped to be close to a month long journey with the regional side at the ICC Youth 50-over World Cup in New Zealand and both his mother, Vanessa and younger brother, Rovaldo along with other relatives are overjoyed and proud of the accomplishments of the young cricketer.

The all-rounder’s road to success was built on a strong support mechanism led by his mother who saw the signs of a future star in the making since his early days in William and Queen Streets, Kitty.

“I am proud he has made the Windies under-19s. Since he was small coming up in cricket I knew he had the potential and all of it comes from his Grandfather [Alfred Alimohammed] and Uncle, a former national player [Ricardo Alimohamed] and we are all proud of what he has accomplished and hopefully he continues on the same path,” the mother of two told Guyana Times Sport.

She added, “He got the love of the game from them [Uncle and Grandfather] since he was small they would have him in the yard bowling or at the ground. Since the age of six [years-old] his uncle and Reon King joined him at [Georgetown Cricket Club] GCC and I am always there to support, if I have to work, I try to go on weekends to watch him play.”

However, it was not all cricket as the Laboratory Technician ensured that the Academy of Precious Ones student remained focused on his academics.

“It was a tough task because if I didn’t have an early hand on it, the cricket would have taken over more of the school and I tried to make sure he has the balance.”

Now that her son is on the ‘big stage’ Vanessa plans on offering even more support as she hopes to see him one day progress to the senior team.

“I am here all the time to give him support as a mother and give him the necessary support to go through the West Indies team.”

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Ronaldo keeps a photo of his uncle Ricardo, a former national player who inspired him to play the sport

The Alimohameds: Ronaldo (seated centre) along with mother Vanessa and younger brother along with other relatives at their home

son playing in the maroon on television, she giggled and said, “I will be very proud see him there. We have a talented team and I expect them to do well.”

Role model

Likewise, Ravaldo who is already following in his brother’s footsteps by joining GCC stated “I am proud of him 100% and know he will go out and make the family proud.” “ O n e of my best friends talks good stuff about Ronaldo and says my brother

is

his role model and he wants to become like him.”

The Richard Ishmael High School student also has eyes set on donning national colours in the next two to three years and possibly the

All smiles! Ronaldo at a recent training camp

regional youth team.

In Ronaldo’s eyes, his younger brother is vastly improving as cricketer. “I see myself as a role model and he is coming up quite well under my shoulders.”

Ready for battle

The defending champions play their first match on January 13 against the hosts and Ronaldo though filled with nerves believes they are ready.

“We are prepared for the world cup, we have been training hard, going through the basics and solidifying some key areas in our game and most importantly to be discipline. I am kind of nervous given what is expected but I know I can hold my own. More so having four other guys from Guyana will help since we all have been playing cricket together for quite some time now.” continued on page 20

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

monDAY, january 1, 2018

Daniel Williams is made for the track

M

embers of the Guyana Karate College (GKC) on Sunday brought delight to the kids of the Joshua House Children’s Centre in Georgetown, as part of their annual drive to recognize the less fortunate.

GKC Vice-President and Senior Instructor Shihan Jeffrey Wong said that while most will celebrate Christmas and will be ringing in the New Year with family, close friends and loved ones, it was equally important to extend the same warmth to the orphans of the Centre.

The GKC started the day off for the children with a breakfast and then treated them to a karate demonstration before interacting and taking photographs with them. Karatekas of the GKC related how they found the experience with the children to be very fulfilling particularly when they got to see their smiling faces while in-

Williams collecting his Champion Boy trophy at the National Schools Cycling, Swimming and Track and Field Championships

Shihan Jeffrey Wong talking to the children of Joshua House during the specially arranged breakfast

teracting with them.

GKC Sub-Committee member with responsibility social development, Peter Campayne indicated that while the GKC’s intention is to it continue the programme of providing gifts and treats that can bring joy to the young children of Joshua House and other children’s homes in 2018; they believe that giving a child an education will serve

them in good stead for the rest of their lives.

Consequently, they propose to encourage citizens, particular corporate citizens to sponsor a child from one of these institutions to attend the Guyana Karate College to train and become full- fledged karatekas beginning at the white belt level and going all the way to become black belts.

They also plan to have

their senior Karatekas work with the children in the children’s homes to offer remedial homework classes, life skills coaching, and to allow them to participate in the GKC vacation camps.

Additionally the GKC plans to donate household items, food, toiletries, sheets and bath towels the Joshua House Children Centre during 2018.

By Michelangelo Jacobus

I

f 2017 was the year of athletics in Guyana, then 17-year-old Daniel Williams is the personification of that success.

Born in the mining town of Linden, Williams has already tasted success in a major international competition; his success came in his specialist event, the 400 metres dash.

At the World Under-18 Championships in July, 2017 in Nairobi, Kenya, Williams ran a personal best time of 46.72s to win a silver medal and stun the world.

Daniel started taking part in athletics at the Primary school level where he excelled. His success was transferred into the secondary level and he became a constant figure at the National Schools Athletic Championships. In 2017, he became the most decorated athlete at the National Schools Championships, owning records in the High Jump, 100M, 200M and 400M, competing in the U12, U14, U16 and U18 categories.

The young speed ace announced his appetite for big things in April 2017 when he placed second in the 400m at the CARIFTA Games in Curacao. However, his elation was short lived as he was soon after disqualified for lane infringement.

Seemingly unperturbed `Mr. Dynamic’ returned and would make amends in front of his home crowd. Showing a mental fortitude that belied his age, Williams came up against the best from this continent and won a silver medal in the same event at the South America Youth

Championships.

His hard work paid off and he was selected by the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) along with jumper Chantoba Bright to represent Guyana in Kenya.

Williams repaid the association’s faith by capturing only the second World U-18 medal for Guyana at the Championships.

However, Daniel’s talent is not limited to the track. He attends the Mackenzie High School (MHS) in Linden, and in 2015, he found success at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examinations, gaining a Grade One pass, four Grade Twos and three Grade Threes in his eight subjects.

Williams would later move to Sixth Form at the same institution, where he completed Unit One at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and is now in the process of completing Unit Two and also has an aspiration of studying Mechanical Engineering.

If 2017 has been a revelation, then 2018 promises bigger things for Williams as several colleges on the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) have since come calling, after noticing his growth, especially in the 400M, where his 46.72 seconds was the second fastest in the world.

One can only hope that the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) do their best to ensure that Guyana’s young track star receives all the necessary support to step to the next level and possibly go on to win Guyana’s next Olympic medal.

23

monDAY, january 1, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

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

MONDAY, JANUARY 1, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

Pg 21

The Alimohameds: A family dreaming of a World Cup hero Windies U-19 Head Coach Graeme West (backing camera) chats with from left: Naeem Young, Ronaldo Alimohamed and Jeavor Royal during their preparatory camp ahead of the Youth World Cup in New Zealand (Windies Media photo)

Daniel Williams is made for the track Pg 22

Blazing trails! Daniel Williams was the poster boy for athletics in Guyana in 2017

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