Guyanatime 24 february 2018

Guyanese volunteer wins Commonwealth Point of Light award Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 3484

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Saturday, February 24, 2018

PRICE

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Anti-corruption must become national policy – transparency group P3 West Berbice rice land leases

3 more farmers challenge President’s revocation P14 ... each seeking $1M in damages

Page 11

Mash parade 2018 highlights Guyana’s diversity

Guyana Prize for Literature

Norton still unaware of responsibility …seeking advice

It was an explosion of colours on Friday when revellers took to the streets as part of the Mashramani Costume and Float Parade 2018. In photo (top), the Natural Resources Ministry float takes centre stage as revellers made their way to D’Urban Park, Georgetown for the grand finale. Also joining the revellers along the parade route on Friday was Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo. President David Granger (bottom right) greets the costume judges at D’Urban Park where the float parade ended

Page 10

Govt sabotage of Region 6 flag raising

P2

No decision yet on oil refinery P9 – Harmon

“It was a dark night in the history of Corriverton” – Mayor …Town Council to brief ABC countries on ministerial interference

15 homeless after fire razes 3 Plaisance houses Page 2

Night club P10 security guards beaten during “sunrise” fete

2 NEWS 15 homeless after fire razes 3 Plaisance houses F saturDAY, February 24, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

ifteen persons are now homeless after a fire suspected to be of electrical origin on Friday afternoon ravaged two houses and an apartment building at Plaisance, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

The fire reportedly started at about 14:30h in the apartment building located at Lot 4041 Victoria Road, Plaisance, ECD. Guyana Times understands that persons became alerted to the blaze when thick smoke was seen bellowing from the apartment building owned

by Shirley Cummings, who resides next door.

The Guyana Fire Service was called to the scene, but by the time its tenders arrived, the fire had already spread to two other houses located aback the apartment building, and to an unoccupied house next door.

Cummings told this publication that she heard screams, and when she looked outside, she saw persons rushing to the house.

“I was in the shop in here and saw people deh running.

A firefighter struggling to contain the blaze

Somebody seh smoke in the other building, and that is what put we on the alert, and we start getting buckets with water and suh,”

Cummings explained.

Also speaking with this publication was Rowena Glasgow, one of the occupants of the apartment

building. She related that she had just left her home, and was heading to the Mashramani parade when she received a call from her daughter, alerting her of the fire.

In tears, the woman related that she immediately returned home, and was shocked when she saw the blaze.

“I was living in one of the apartments downstairs, and I just left home -- like I reach to Kitty -- and my daughter called me that somebody told her that the house is on fire, and I let the taxi turn back, and I came back; and everything, I lost everything for the second time. I used to live on the line top with my children when my previous house burnt, and I had lost everything then as well,” Glasgow relayed in disbelief.

The woman, a seamstress, estimated her losses to be in the millions, as she had only recently received a contract to sew for the National Library and other entities.

One of the occupants of

the two houses located at the back of the apartment building said he was at work when his wife called to inform him that the house was on fire.

Vaughn LaGlass revealed that the unoccupied neighbouring house, which was also burnt, was recently renovated.

“Nobody deh living there right now, but like they had plans to (rent it), because the house was recently renovated,” LaGlass related.

He revealed that he suffered major losses, as he had recently renovated his section of the two-family house,

and had refurnished for Christmas.

“I just buy a 49-inch television, you know, for Christmas. I recently went at the back here and renovated. We had to plumb and so much things, so I made a lot of purchase,” he explained.

He resided with his wife and three children.

Meanwhile, a fire official at the scene confirmed that no one was injured, and that the area often has electricity issues.

An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire.

Guyana Prize for Literature

Norton still unaware of responsibility …seeking advice

T

he creation of new departments within the Government seems to be confusing the officeholders as to what is, or is not, their responsibilities. One such partly unaware Government member is Social Cohesion Minister, Dr George Norton, who despite being responsible for culture, youth and sport seems to not know whether he has the responsibility for the prestigious Guyana Prize for Literature.

This publication reported that Government did not release funds, to the Guyana Prize for Literature Committee, for the hosting of the event in 2017 resulting in them halting all work.

However, Secretary to the Committee, Al Creighton, explained that they are still judging the submissions and promised the hosting of the awards ceremony later in 2018.

Nevertheless, he could not have given an explanation for the event being postponed indefinitely. The prestigious award ceremony was supposed to be held in July of 2017, with March 31 being the deadline for submissions.

Meanwhile a source had indicated that the Committee is uncertain as to when the awards would be held, since Government is yet to signal its commitment to funding for the event to be kicked off.

Guyana Times caught up with Minister Norton on Monday at the launching of his Ministry’s Mash band, where he explained that he is yet to determine under whose remit the Guyana Prize falls.

Nevertheless, he continued to deny claims that Government is withholding funds but alluded to the “financial implication” of hosting the event.

“I know it was established many years ago under the stewardship of Mr (Desmond) Hoyte and it’s a legacy we would want to keep on. There is a lot of financial implications but it worth every cent and we hope (to get) at least the short list soon,” Dr Norton stated.

He added that he is still awaiting a response from

Minister George Norton

Creighton as to the status of the Committee’s work and who is responsible for the Guyana Prize.

The Guyana Prize is awarded to writers of Guyanese nationality in several different categories.

These categories include Best First Book of Poetry, Best First Book of Fiction, Best Book of Poetry, Best Book of Fiction and Best Book of Drama. Additionally, the Guyana Prize also awards Books of Poetry, Fiction and Drama in separate categories for Caribbean writers.

The Guyana Prize for Literature was established in 1987 to provide encouragement for the development of good creative writing among Guyanese in particular and Caribbean writers in general. The Prize is for published books and is open to works by citizens of Caribbean countries: Caricom States, the Commonwealth Caribbean, and the Netherland Antilles.

To be eligible for entry, a book must have been written and published in English and for Drama-entries must be full-length plays. For Fiction and Poetry, the publishers must enter works. No more than one work by any author may be entered in each category.

Over the years, the Prize has attracted both praise and criticism and would have awarded several established writers aiding in the development of the literature sector in Guyana. The judges are pulled from both the foreign and local literary sector with vast knowledge in literature.

news

3

saturDAY, February 24, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

Oil sector

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

CGX’s 1999 contract signed during dry exploration era – Jagdeo

Saturday, February 24 – 11:00h-12:30h and Sunday, February 25 – a night retraction at 01:00h and a day retraction from 12:30h-14:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, February 24 – 10:30h-12:00h and Sunday, February 25 – 11:55h-13:25h.

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

WEATHER TODAY

Weather: Lightly cloudy skies with sunny intervals can be expected throughout most of the day, with partly cloudy skies expected in the evening. Overall temperatures are expected to range between 21 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 11:08h reaching a maximum height of 2.32 metres.

Low Tide: 04:35h and 17:23h reaching minimum heights of 1.00 metre and 0.88 metre respectively.

T

he CGX contract signed by the former administration is being defended by former President Bharrat Jagdeo, who firmly believes that the terms of the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement should not have been modelled after it.

During a press conference on Thursday, Jagdeo took on critics of the CGX contract. He said the coalition Government had a better chance at securing a good deal than the PPP administration did. This, he pointed out, was because the former administration was seeking to attract companies who would make billion-dol-

have to get straight,” Jagdeo emphasised. “That contract that Donald Ramotar signed with CGX was signed in a period when we were exploring for oil. We didn’t have any find. We did not know whether we were going to find oil. We were encouraging people to spend hundreds of millions. So, in that period, there was a need to encourage investors,” he explained.

Jagdeo pointed out that when Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman signed the agreement, the Government already knew there was recoverable oil in the Stabroek block. He also observed that there was

have led to Guyana getting a better deal. “Unlike in the

great interest in Guyana as a potential oil producer -- all factors that should

past, we had to really press people to come and take up blocks. We had these blocks

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

The CGX concessions

WEDNESDAY, february 21, 2018

LOTTERY NUMBERS F

12

15 18

19

21

24

06 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

DAILY MILLIONS 07 11 15 22 24

Afternoon Draw DRAW DE LINE 01

03

08

6

1

13

8

Evening Draw 15

16

Anti-corruption must become national policy – transparency group

W

THURSDAY, February 22,2018

LUCKY 3 8 7 9

lar investments without assured returns.

“There are some facts we

19

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

lying around, no one wanted to come and take them up because they had to spend money. So that’s the first difference. The second difference is in the size of the areas. ExxonMobil’s concession is multiple times bigger than CGX’s concession.

“Thirdly is that we can’t (compare) the Ramotar contract with Exxon.

Remember Exxon had a contract that was signed in 1999. What they renegotiated was that contract, not the contract that they had similar to the one Ramotar signed. They renegotiated the Janet Jagan agreement, and a lot of those provisions in the CGX contract were not in the original agreement,” he explained.

He posited that even if Exxon had argued for similar treatment as CGX, the current Government had argued that no future investor can expect a deal like the one Exxon got. He stated that if this was Exxon’s argument at the negotiating table, it should have been a moot one, considering the circumstances.

Last week, Government released the agreement with CGX Resources Incorporated, signed in 2013 by then President Donald Ramotar. Many of its provisions were similar to Exxon’s; though CGX got significantly less blocks than what the

ith dire warnings that countries in the region make anti-corruption as a national Police and priority, International watchdog Transparency International (TI) has given Guyana a ranking of 91 out of 180 countries on the index.

According to the index, which was released just days ago, countries that fail to make anti-corruption a priority stand the risk of losing ground in their corruption fighting efforts in future indexes. “(But) countries that prioritise anti-corruption and create national policies through consensus and public and political participation; are better positioned to make a significant qualitative leap forward,” the report stated.

While the report shied away from saying that the region’s anti-corruption fight had come to a standstill, it did observe that more must be done to tackle

structural issues. This, the report noted, includes “political funding, public procure-

standing issues with corruption that were not being addressed.

ment and the strengthening of independent, strong, and flexible legal institutions.”

Guyana was ranked at 91, with a score of 38; an improvement from 2016’s ranking of 108. For 2016, the country received a score of 34; in 2015, 29 and in 2014, 30.

Regionally, Trinidad and Tobago and Suriname tied for 77th place with a score of 41. Jamaica, on the other hand, was ranked 68th with a score of 44; The Bahamas placed at 28th with a score of 65; and Barbados was able to secure 25th place with a score of 68.

The last time the index had been released, it was noted that there were out-

During one of his rare press conferences, President David Granger had denied knowledge of any corruption within his ranks. This

had come in the wake of a number of instances when Government’s accountability and transparency was put in the spotlight.

While he insisted that he would do whatever possible to ensure the integrity of his Ministers working in the industry, Granger acknowledged that “God couldn’t confirm that his people wouldn’t be compromised by adultery.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

4

guyanatimesgy.com

saturDAY, February 24, 2018

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

Technology and consumers’ rights

W

orld Consumer Rights Day will soon be observed in Guyana, and the occasion should be used as an opportunity to promote the basic rights of all consumers; to demand that those rights are respected and protected, and as a chance to protest against the market abuses and social injustices which undermine those rights.

This year’s theme, “Making digital marketplaces fairer,” is appropriate as, according to Consumer International, 40 per cent of the world’s population is currently online.

Digital technology is having a dramatic impact on consumers around the world, creating many new benefits, including better communication, access to information, and greater choice and convenience. While consumers undoubtedly benefit from these technologies, there are questions about how to establish access to the Internet for the many consumers who are not connected; how to improve the quality of services; which online services and products consumers can trust; and what happens to the data they share online.

It is estimated that, by 2020, fifty-two per cent of the world's population would be online. This means that the number of people accessing the Internet would have grown by a third in just five years. Technology has given many consumers more choices, convenience and information, but important issues remain.

Guyana will join in the observance to mark the occasion, which will bring together more than 200-member organisations in more than 100 countries to champion the rights of consumers everywhere. Undoubtedly, there are important issues to be addressed. For instance, people still are not sure what their rights to redress are when it comes to online sales. What is digital consumer trust? And how can we build it? Over the past year, Public Telecommunications Minister Cathy Hughes has been touting the benefits of e-commerce, and encouraging persons from all backgrounds and professions to use the Internet as a way of finding online markets. She believes that Information and Communications Technology (ICT) would deliver the transformation within Guyana, and has noted that enhanced connectivity would facilitate opportunities for business development, research, and education.

Certain services at the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) are already available online, and the minister has assured that the objective is to place every single public service online, including applications for birth and death certificates; driver’s licences; business compliance certificates; and land, housing, mining, and forestry permits, among others. While it is clear that efforts are underway to give those not yet connected a chance to do so at an affordable cost, the challenge is in ensuring everyone's data is kept safe and secure, and to help consumers know which services they can trust. Integral to this is consumer protection and empowerment. If Guyana is to progress along the digital trajectory, consumers would, more than ever, be required to give personal information, such as bank account details, credit card details, email addresses, identity details or medical information, when accessing goods and services online. When this information is lost or stolen, the effects can be serious. Consumers therefore need to be aware of their rights, and what actions can be taken. Local consumer protection bodies in Guyana, including the Guyana National Bureau of Standards, the Public Utilities Commission and the Competition and Consumers Affairs Commission, should be lauded for their continued efforts to sensitise the public on their rights, and for dissemination of pertinent information. These entities have also recognised that, in this Digital Age, consumers need to be protected more than ever, and have charged service providers to find secure and reliable ways of utilising data, and to address the challenges by developing strategies that would lead to a trustworthy digital world for all consumers. It is now up to businesses to create more reliable and secure means of conducting business.

One of the floats in the Ministry of the Presidency’s Social Cohesion Department at the starting point of the 2018 Mashramani Costume and Float Parade, Thomas Lands and Camp Road, Georgetown on Friday

Forensic audit of M&CC welcoming Dear Editor, It was with considerable relief and anticipation that I learnt of the intention of the Auditor General to launch a forensic audit of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, regarding the millions of dollars in funds provided by Central Government since 2015, most of which cannot be accounted for.

I sincerely hope that he proceeds with a forensic audit, even in the absence of the requested financial documents, which of course would never be given voluntarily to him; and I hope he uses his powers under the forensic audit regulations, if necessary, to submit his findings to the Police and subsequently to the Director of Public Prosecutions for criminal investigations.

This is not the first time that the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament has been trying unsuccessfully to

scrutinize expenditure allocated by Parliament for the Ministry of Communities, which was then doled out to the Georgetown Municipality.

One year ago, during another Public Accounts Committee meeting, members were told by officials of the Council that there was an eight-year gap (20062013) in the financial records of Council due to the records being damaged as a consequence of flooding at City Hall. How convenient.

I think it would be irresponsible for the Central Government to give City Hall another cent, being fully aware of its inability to account for the money; and worse, to allow Council officials to squander it on themselves.

But even if the Auditor General were to be provided with all of the requisite documents and verifications of

the expenditures, the problems of lack of accountability, mismanagement and vice at the Georgetown Municipality run way deeper than that.

It also needs to be investigated what is done with the equipment, supplies, services and other resources that were purportedly procured using the financial resources provided by Central Government.

A simple check would reveal that the double cab pickup that was purchased for the City Police using $6.2 million is being misused, and rather than being used to arrest the out-of-control crime situation in Georgetown, it can instead be seen transporting children to and from school on a daily basis, and countless times outside the precincts of Georgetown.

The $52.1 million provided for debushing the Le Repentir Cemetery was handed out largely to a rel-

ative of a senior municipal official, rather than being publicly tendered -- clearly in violation of tender procedures. The $60 million given could easily have renovated the Kitty Market, but we all know of that debacle which has caused vendors to be dislocated for more than two years and the Government having to come up with an additional $25 million.

Then the $23.9 million given to refurbish the City Constabulary Training School, what a joke. Just look at the Training School, one would be hard pressed to see $9 million spent on it, let alone $23.9 million. The claim is preposterous, and the list goes on and on.

I have every confidence in the Audit Office of Guyana, and thus am awaiting the results with bated breath.

Sincerely, Jermain Johnson

Corruption is a true enemy of development Dear Editor, Well, finally, it seems as though there will be some sort of audit carried out at City Hall in Georgetown.

Of course this audit will be a very small, focused one that will be concentrated on the millions of dollars in funds provided by Central Government to the Georgetown Municipality since 2015.

But, hopefully, the findings of this forensic audit will raise the awareness of, and trigger the effecting of, a much more comprehensive audit of the workings of the Georgetown Municipality.

The kind of audit needed at the Georgetown Municipality -- because of the protracted period since one was held; because of the enor-

mous sums of money and assets involved; and because of the amount of scandals that have surfaced over time at City Hall -- would need to be forensic in nature, and would require gargantuan resources.

The claim made two years ago by the Mayor -that she was open to facilitate any forensic audit, and that the Office of the Auditor General was welcome at any time -- was nothing more than spouting hot air. The Audit Office of Guyana has clearly indicated that all attempts to conduct an audit at City Hall were frustrated and were stymied by documents not being provided. It is time for this charade to be put to an end.

To further throw dust in

the eyes of the citizenry, the City Council had set up a fully staffed Internal Audit Department. This turned out to be a complete waste of time and revenue earned from ratepayers, as these persons just sat and idled all day long whilst receiving fat salaries for doing little or nothing.

Auditing City Hall would require the engagement of several experienced and capable accounting and auditing firms, as the load would simply be just too much for the Audit Office of Guyana. Over the last two decades, many things have been hidden, destroyed and misplaced. Crooked contracts will have to be examined; equipment that has gone missing will have to be

traced; persons illegally given interest waivers will have to be pursued and made to pay their correct dues; equipment that has been sent to do private jobs, including work at officers’ residences, will have to be paid for; municipal equipment that was sold dirt cheap would need to be properly assessed, and the proper prices paid for them; municipal property sold or leased when that should not have been needs to be retrieved.

Oh, the task would be titanic, but it must be done.

Corruption is a true enemy to development, and fighting it at City Hall would not be a one-day or one-time affair.

Best regards, Deodarie Putulall

guyanatimesgy.com

5

saturDAY, February 24, 2018

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

Improvement dependent on GWI’s rate increase Dear Editor, Improvement in the quality of water provided to citizens, as well as an increase in supply, is dependent on much-needed revenue to finance the upgrade of aged infrastructure, build human resource capacity, and purchase the requisite equipment and chemicals to treat the water.

This reasoning was reinforced by the Guyana Water Inc on Wednesday at the Woodbine Room of Cara Lodge, during the second public hearing for an application on change of rates, organised by the Public Utilities Commission.

Responding to questions from the audience gathered at the hearing, Managing Director of GWI, Dr. Richard Van West-Charles, explained that the company’s debt figure is high, and collections alone cannot sufficiently finance the investments made to treat water for a growing economy.

“When we apply the Limitation Act and look at the debt beyond the last three years, there is no way -- if you collect that debt anyway -- that

you can cover the cost, because nothing stands still. We’re having customers every day; we’re having new housing schemes, both private and public; we are looking at already existing schemes that do not have access; those that require an improvement of quality, such as New Hope,” Dr Van West-Charles said.

He further highlighted that in the context of the strategic plan, maintenance of the system is necessary, and the needs of the hinterland regions as well as the improvement of water quality across the country must be taken into consideration.

Dr. Van West-Charles stressed that, globally, every company caters for some level of delinquency from customers who do not pay their debt. In this regard, he cited other utility and hire-purchase entities.

Additionally, the Managing Director pointed out that while salaries are equal among staff countrywide, so should the rates be.

During his presentation, it was also highlighted that since the last

Metered

Categories Residential Pensioner Non-residential Metered Unmetered Small Medium Large

Unmetered ConsumpF i x e d Fixed Charge tion Charge Charge 3 (per m ) $ 500 $ 112 $ 500 $ - $ 74 $

$

$ $ $

500 $

rate change, 12 years ago, the cost for purifying water alone has increased by more than 100 per cent, let alone the cost for equipment and manual labour, among other things. In this regard, Dr. Van West-Charles stated that the utility has since moved to employ and train staff in the necessary areas of expertise, such as learning new

150 $

Consumption Charge (per month) $ 1,500 $ 740

500

Sewerage Metered U n m e t ( p e r ered (per month) month) $ 417 $ 417

$

2,860

3,750 $ 12,000 $ 24,000 $ drilling techniques and water quality improvements.

GWI is proposing a change in rates for residential and non-residential (metered and unmetered) customers, and a new category for pensioners. The PUC has requested an unaudited copy of GWI’s 2016 financial statements, to be presented at the next public hearing,

2,860 4,350 6,375

scheduled for March 14, 2018 at the same venue from 10:00hrs. GWI has promised to meet with its Board of Directors to seek permission in regard to providing same.

Yours truly, Public Relations Officer GWI

Milking GuySuCo, Treasury dry Dear Editor, We are now told that the Special Purpose Unit would need between $10 billion and $15 billion to get Enmore and Skeldon estates back into operation.

The SPU would rehire some workers and produce a little sugar, but the ‘focus will be to produce more molasses’.

I am wondering if Minister Winston Jordan knows that molasses is a by-product of sugar! I had emphasized the fact, in a letter to the media, that this Government has no clue about what it is doing about GuySuCo, and this is more evidence galore.

But apart from the huge disparity of $5 billion in the estimate, it must be noted that, in an earlier state-

ment, Agriculture Minister Noel Holder had said that the Government expended $16 billion on GuySuCo to get it going for 6 months, but now the Finance Minister is saying that $15 billion would be needed for a few months just to reopen a mere two estates at a minimum level of operation. Is this realistic? I am sure that figures are just being plucked from thin air!

After closing the estates, this minister is now saying, “We cannot keep them closed and moth-balled”. It is only now he has come to the realization that the buyers would be impressed only if the factories are working.

How can we expect to move forward as a nation when it has taken such a long

time for the Finance Minister to learn such a basic lesson in financing and investment?

This is the reason why many profitable Government entities, such as GUYOIL, are now deficit-makers. The ‘cut and paste’ mentality has its limitations!

The minister is also now saying that Enmore should be opened simply because the Government does not want DDL to import molasses when it can be produced locally. I will not ask why this was not considered before the decision to close, but I want Jordan to tell this nation how much profit the estate will make?

Will this be a profitable venture for the taxpayers to finance? DDL has shown interest in purchasing the Estate,

why not sell it to them now?

Why create a further burden for the taxpayers? I am sure the entity would make a loss, which must be financed by taxpayers in addition to the huge loans and the accrued interests which have to be repaid.

However, the Finance Minister then began to daydream. He said the original model under GuySuCo was not cost-efficient, but the new SPU model would ‘pull them away from GuySuCo and make them more efficient, and the balance sheets (would) look better, in order to attract investors’. This man cannot be serious. If this Government can transform these entities into being ‘cost efficient’ and therefore profit-

What is there to celebrate?

Dear Editor, Burnham told us that the word Mashramani was coined from an Amerindian term meaning "play after work"; but, in essence, what is there to play? What is there to celebrate? When a sizable section of our working people are out of a job and nothing by way of an income to finance their families, the question needs to be asked again: What is there to celebrate? This is the stark reality of a Guyanese existence.

Soon after taking office, over 2000 Amerindian brothers and sisters was fired. Those of our original Guyanese brethren were dismissed for no apparent reason, the only sensible reason was that they were hired during the PPP/C time in office, and as such were branded party supporters.

You are speaking of ordinary people who were eking out a living just like anybody else, with no political strings attached. And even if they had

political lineage, aren't they entitled to have one?

Soon after, the Government began the dismantling of the sugar industry, closing four estates and firing near 7,000 workers, with the excuse again that the industry was a drain on the public purse.

So where was the drain on the public purse when you could have bloated the same system with more individuals than their former employer? Again, this is the good life that the PNC-led coalition wants us to believe in.

Further to our discussion is the fact that when news came to us that Government is mulling the idea of the reopening of the sugar estates and the rehiring of the dismissed workers, this came to us as good news. However, we are now of the understanding that this is not so, only two of the four estates would be reopening, and a handful of workers rehired.

This Government has done

it again -- using taxpayers’ money to first rehabilitate those two estates, then practically giving them away.

Finally, ours is a miserable existence in this part of the globe fashioned and left for dead under a vindictive, spiteful and uncaring regime.

So, during this period of so-called celebration, our country is mourning; mourning that we are ever so divided and pauperized by an evil regime. In reality, there is nothing to celebrate.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

able, then why sell them? The reason for selling is because they are not profitable and cost efficient, and are a burden to the taxpayers.

Why is this model not being used in the remaining estates, such as Albion and Blairmont, to make them cost-efficient and profitable?

It must be recalled that only last crop these estates failed to achieve their targets!

Moreover, more than 80 investors, both local and foreign, have shown interest in buying these estates, and they are fully aware of the high production costs and recurring losses; therefore, there is no reason why they should not be sold as they are. Let the purchasers be the ones to incur the required costs to make

the estates profitable. This Government is again making a wrong decision. What if, after expending $15 billion, the estates remain unprofitable?

We have many qualified and experienced professionals who could have done GuySuCo’s privatization process like a walk in the park, yet this Government continued to blunder almost on a daily basis. GuySuCo could have been sold a long time ago, but in my opinion some people are seeing yet another avenue to continue to milk GuySuCo dry as well as the treasury, for personal reasons.

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf RDC CouncillorRegion Six

6

SATURDAY, February 24, 2018

Page

Foundation

Your child’s secret life online: 7 ways to manage it as a parent

By Spencer Melnick

Y

our teen needed a laptop for school, so you bought it. He needed a phone to keep in touch with you, so after a halfhour argument with him at the wireless store, a “phone” became a smartphone. He has a tablet because, after you told him it wasn’t in the budget, he spent the weekend with his dad, and voila! He has an iPad. Now, every time you look at your son, he has a screen in front of his face, barely audible text notifications going off at all hours and he’s on social media sites you’ve never heard of.

Suddenly, his use of technology has gone past school work and into a strange kind of secrecy.

I believe the most important thing you can do is open up regular dialogue about your child’s online experiences and approach it with genuine, open curiosity.

Technology is empowering and necessary for children and for parents. But the longer I work with families in my practice, the more I see technology becoming problematic for them.

Think about your child’s smartphone. It’s a very complex device that can be used for good or bad. It’s a communication tool and a wonderful research and study tool. For the child who struggles to focus on homework, however, it’s a chronic distraction machine—an ADD machine, if you will. It’s a camera and video camera that can broadcast your child’s mistakes and poor choices to the world in seconds. It’s a weapon for bullying and a source of anxiety for children who are bullied. It’s a reason your son doesn’t get enough sleep at night. It’s a pornography machine at the touch of the wrong link. It’s a device that can expose your young child to things you don’t want her to see. Ever.

How are your children using technology? Do you know what they’re looking at when they’re curled up on the sofa for five hours with their phones six inches from their face? When you ask them who they’re talking to online, do you get a one-word, snippy answer, if any answer at all? It’s tricky territory for parents. Your teen knows more about the online world than you probably ever will, and it can quickly become another way for your child to behave defiantly with you. So how do you even talk to your child about their online life, interests and safety?

Immobilised Parents: “I don’t know what to do about it, so I’ll do nothing.”

Although they may be wizards with setting up devices and finding cool apps, most children do not have the emotional intelligence to be able to manage and understand everything they’re seeing online. That’s why parents need to be involved.

Increasingly, though, I see parents becoming immobilised around their children’s use of technology. They don’t know what to do or where to start, so they do nothing. It’s normal for parents to feel “frozen” and helpless about the online world of their child.

I met a parent recently who had discovered her young son had been watching videos online of people playing Russian Roulette. She was lucky. Her son brought up the subject, instead of keeping it to himself, because he was disturbed by what he saw. Mom felt immobilised. What should she do? Take his phone away? Restrict access? Should she talk to him about what else he’s watching online? Without a clear option, should she do nothing?

Remaining immobilised around your child’s technology use isn’t effective or empowering for you as a parent, and it doesn’t help your child. I believe the most important thing you can do is open up regular dialogue about your child’s online experiences and approach it with genuine, open curiosity. Many kids remain secretive about what they’re doing and seeing online because: Technology is a tether to their social life; they are very socially focused and protective of their right to be.

They don’t want you in their business, and the secrecy is a form of defiance They’re in over their heads as far as what they’re seeing or engaging in online and don’t know how to talk about it. I remember an 11-year-old client who started looking at pornography sites on his phone and eventually clicked on particularly disturbing, violent porn that gave him nightmares.

He wanted to talk about the problem, but he was ashamed and afraid. This is why it’s important for parents to engage with their children about what’s happening online for them.

It shouldn’t be a secret in the home. (Excerpt from empoweringparents.com) To be continued

guyanatimesgy.com

A moment in time for teens

… listening to our children as they call for action

By Kenneth Ginsburg, MD, MSEd

W

e often rely on the righteous indignation of youth to move forward as a society. We always have. Young people possess the inherent capacity to see what is wrong and to call for change.

The mass shooting in Parkland, Florida, as with too many similar events, takes an emotional toll.

As a parent, it’s almost impossible to watch the news. Who among us can bear to stand witness yet again as other parents and students replay their pain? We are left feeling raw. Sometimes feeling numb. Even powerless.

But I am feeling genuinely hopeful now.

Our young people are not growing numb. They are finding and seizing their voices. As we grow weary, they are gaining strength.

They are leading the charge. We must look closely at this moment in time – at what is happening – and listen to our own children as well as the

children in our communities. Our youth are idealistic. They are passionate.

They are compassionate.

Our children are speaking their truth. Shame on us adults who passively let inequities persist and preventable catastrophes recur.

I wish everybody could meet the young people my colleagues and I care for and about every day. How lucky we are to be spectators to their overflowing compassion!

This is an important moment for adolescents. Our young people want to shape the future they will inherit. They say this is it – the time is now. They refuse to be bystanders. Even amidst tragedy, they find the energy to stand for change. They demand solutions to solvable problems. This is a moment in time for parents and youth advocates as well. We can help others to take notice. To all who falsely believe youth think

they are invincible – we can suggest they hear adolescents' pain and passion as they demonstrate they hold no such thoughts. Have you ever thought young people are self-centred? If so, we can suggest looking and listening to young peoples’ deeply held ideals for a better world. We can notice how they support each other in the worst of times, knowing that it’s human connection from which we all draw strength.

Our teens have given us adults a call to action. We must respond to them by listening to and hearing them, and by giving them the love, support, and encouragement they need to stand up, stay strong, and be

the figures of change our society so desperately needs.

We must let our youth have this moment and support their push to build a better – shared – future.

We mustn't let this moment pass and return to misguided views of youth. We must not disempower them with the low expectations too many adults hold of young people. What we are seeing today is the truth about young people. Adolescence includes struggling to make sense of the senseless and imagining a saner reality. We rely on them to do so. We must shelve the worn and incorrect view that most adolescents are impulsive, thoughtless, or selfish.

We must see adolescents in our homes and our communities as they deserve to be seen. The true face of youth – with its idealism, passion, and strength.

We must prepare them with the knowledge and tools to build us a better world. (psychologytoday.com)

7 Jagdeo urges supporters to fight injustices lawfully news

saturDAY, February 24, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…confident about a PPP win at 2020 elections …Harmon insists coalition will govern past 2020 times are different. Jagdeo told the gathering that his party only required that they remain focused and united over the next two years.

“For many years, we thought that we had struggled enough and the freedoms we enjoyed would always be there forever but we have to get back to the struggle… and if we fought 28 years of dictatorship, we can fight dictatorship again and we will win,” he said to loud applause from the attentive crowd.

By Michael Younge

I

n two years, Guyanese will once again have the opportunity to exercise their franchise and either maintain the status quo or create a new political situation in the country when the 2020 General and Regional Elections are constitutionally due.

But Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo is maintaining that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) will emerge victorious at those polls once its leadership remains focused on addressing the concerns of the Guyanese public while fighting the increasing levels of injustices committed against hard-working and ordinary Guyanese citizens by the ruling A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change Government.

Protecting the working class

Jagdeo, addressing a gathering at a meeting in La Bonne Intention (LBI), East Coast of Demerara on Thursday said the PPP was a strong and patient party. He said it understood the importance of struggle and perseverance in politics, especially when those who are wielding executive authority are abus-

A section of the gathering at LBI

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

ing their power and engaging in unconstitutional and illegal acts which place the future of the country on a whole at risk.

The Opposition Leader explained that the PPP fought against the dictatorship of former Prime Minister and President Forbes Burnham during the tenure of the People’s National Congress and it was successful despite attempts to silence the party and divide it during its early years. He said the PPP was ready to struggle again to protect the rights of all of the working-class people of this country, even though the

Get registered

The PPP General Secretary then urged all those present to get themselves organised, either individually or in groups over the coming weeks in order to ensure that their names were on the National Voters List (NVL).

He said they must also play a role in ensuring that every member of their family, who met the eligibility for registration, according to the laws and rules outlined by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), got registered.

Jagdeo said it was important that those who faced issues at the last General Elections ironed out whatever problems they had now

Minister of State Joseph Harmon

whether it was securing transfers or effecting changes to their misspelt names.

“There is no room for complacency. We must help our brothers and sisters get registered and remain on the Voters List. We must also ensure that we work as a community to resist any illegality or threat our rights. No one will walk over us. We must defend the gains we have made over these last 23 years at the local level,” the PPP General

Secretary said.

He also underscored the importance of the community and others along the sugar belt supporting those workers who were dismissed or made redundant by Government and the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo).

“Get them on the Voters List. Let them go and sort out their issues now. Make sure they are all registered to vote.

We all need to work together and quietly because the next election is important,” he remarked.

Jagdeo believed that his party’s multi-ethnic composition and multi-ethnic approach to politics would see it being re-elected to Government. He insisted that the PPP’s track record in almost every area of Government outshines the coalition Government’s performance to date.

He maintained that the country was going under and backwards because of the lack of vision on the part of the David Granger led-Administration and their love for cor-

ruption and extravagance.

“Ordinary citizens matter. Democracy belongs to them. But the APNU believes that they alone have a right to sovereignty. The ballots of citizens matter and they will learn this. They may have succeeded in fooling people once but now no longer is fooled now and we are seeing their true colours”, he said passionately.

APNU win

But Minister of State and APNU General Secretary Joseph Harmon in an invited comment shared a different view about who may win the next General and Regional Elections. “Based on how we see things and the way in which the population is now responding, we will be here beyond 2020.” He was asked about the plans for expending the monies that would from the oil and gas sectors at the beginning of 2020. Again, he touted the coalition securing of the “good life” for the people through a number of projects which he did not name or describe specifically.

8 news

saturDAY, February 24, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Frontline villages have nothing to fear – President …as GDF intensifies security at Kaikan Village

P

resident David Granger said Guyana depends on ‘frontline’ villages like Kaikan, located in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), a stone’s throw away from the border with Venezuela, to be the watchmen of Guyana’s borders and therefore, these villages must be strong, stable and their citizens safe.

“I have come here with a promise to ensure that Kaikan is fully integrated into this region and this region is fully integrated into Guyana. Have no fear, if we are united, we will prevail. We will be able to live in a strong, secure and stable country… Frontier communities are guardians of Guyana’s territorial integrity and national security.

They are our first line of defence against any attempt at incursions and invasions,” he told residents at a community meeting held at the Kaikan Primary School.

President David Granger and his delegation received a brief of the situation on the ground. The residents, who have had a number of terrorising encounters with the notorious ‘Syndicatos’ gang, welcomed the boosting of security in the area by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). The community now benefits from 24-hour security. This was necessitated by the situation in neighbouring Venezuela and escalated by the age-old border controversy, which was recently

Method…

Y

President Granger and his team – Regional Chairman Gordon Bradford; Toshao of Kaikan, Claude Anselmo; and Minister Dawn Hastings walking around the village of Kaikan

referred to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) by the United Nations.

Like the village of Whitewater in Region One (Barima-Waini), which the President visited last week, Kaikan too has been seeing an influx of Venezuelans, particularly traders and persons seeking health care. During a briefing with GDF ranks deployed in the area, the President was told that Venezuelan civilians and even military personnel come over to the Kaikan Health Post to seek medical attention for malaria and other diseases, while the traders come over to sell or to barter their goods with villagers from communities like Kaikan and Arau.

Toshao of Kaikan, Claude

Anselmo, said that while these might be seen as legitimate activities, a number of illegal activities are also taking place. He informed that he has received reports of smuggling of illegal substances such as marijuana and cocaine. This, the GDF pledged, to eradicate at all costs.

Turning to the residents, President Granger said while the Army and the Police will intensify their efforts to ensure their safety, they have a significant role to play as they are the eyes and ears on the ground.

The President spoke of his 10-point improvement plan for frontier villages which aims at ensuring access to public services in the areas of citizenship, regis-

tration and immigration, education, human safety, information communication technology, national defence, public health, public infrastructure, social cohesion and social protection.

Community development

Speaking of community development, the Head of State urged the residents to work closely with the three tiers of Government – local, regional and central – to find solutions to some of the problems the community faces in terms of socio-economic development. He called on the Regional Chairman to work closely with the community to devise plans to add value to their food production through agro-processing, which will enhance their competitiveness and boost their village economies.

Education was another major area that the President focused on. He noted that while Kaikan is far-flung, no effort should be spared to ensure that every child attends school.

The President was accompanied to Kaikan by Public Affairs Minister Dawn Hastings-Williams, Chief-of-Staff of the GDF, Brigadier Patrick West and other senior officers of the Force. This visit follows a similar outreach to Region One, last week.

…and madness our Eyewitness is familiar with the expression, “There’s a method to your madness.”

Meaning, even though a person’s behaviour may be strange and inexplicable, there might be some reason behind it. Now this unique American practice of “mass shootings” is definitely madness – and he defies anyone to prove otherwise. He’s just trying to find the “method” behind it.

We might as well start with US President Donald Trump. After the Florida killings, he suggested Americans should “tackle the difficult issue of mental health.” Yep… The President who just witnessed the latest in a string of mass killings – defined as more than four victims but the American average is 11 – thinks the problem is “mental health”.

But this is actually an empirical question – we can look at the medical history of the mass killers over the past half-century, for instance. And not surprisingly, someone has done so…and mental health is right down there at the BOTTOM of a very long list. But one question that Trump and the rest of his Republicans avoid is if mental health is such an important public good, how come they only bring it up when mass killings are committed. Shouldn’t they have increased mental health funding after say, the 100th mass killing?

And mass killings have been growing exponentially.

According to your friendly Wiki, “Between 1982 and 2011, a mass shooting occurred roughly once every 200 days. However, between 2011 and 2014 that rate has accelerated greatly with at least one mass shooting occurring every 64 days in the United States.” Now coming back to that “long” list of why folks go on these killing rampages, the one that’s never taken seriously by the Republicans is the incredible availability of guns.

And this is the method to the madness!!

It’s not just Americans who get frustrated and angry or have mental health issues – it’s a human thing. But the crux of the matter is what those folks do about their anger. In the US, it’s firstly part of the “American Way” to settle disputed with guns. Remember how the West was won? In fact, if you dare bring up the subject you’ll be told the “right to bear arms” is constitutionally protected.

Never mind the right was enshrined when the whites were committing genocide of the “Red Indians” to “open up” the American West and slavery had to be enforced to farm the American South. So will there be any move towards “gun control”? Not in this lifetime.

Closer home, we should be concerned about the number of weapons flooding our country and ending up in the hands of criminals.

Maybe soon, WE will also all have to bear arms? …missing in sugar factory re-opening The Finance Minister just announced Government will borrow $10-15 BILLION to keep Skeldon and Enmore going at a lower rate of operation so that they won’t look too run down when investors start looking at them in a year. Can you believe this level of insanity or inanity?

Wasn’t this the same recommendation of the very expensive CoI back in 2015?? Why wasn’t it acceptable in 2015 and not in 2018? What exactly is going on?

As your Eyewitness has been pointing out, dear readers, don’t look for the answer in economics: it’s all politics!! First of all, the Finance Minister is so full of it to say Enmore won’t be producing sugar but molasses!!

Does he not know that molasses is a BY-PRODUCT of sugar production?? You can’t have molasses without most of the sugar being crystalised out.

Now if the Government plans to sell what’s called “first syrup” to DDL, does he know whether DDL will be willing to pay the price of the “sugar enhanced” product??

No wonder Guyana’s already dying from Dutch disease!! ...in stop and search The new East Coast Police Commander says he’ll increase stop and searches of vehicles. He insists the Police must have “reasonable cause” to do so.

So who decides what’s “reasonable”?

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

News

9

saturDAY, February 24, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

No decision yet on oil refinery – Harmon T

here have been several reports of plans to establish oil refineries at various locations across the country, but State Minister Joseph Harmon has declared that Government is yet to make a decision on the matter. “The question of establishing an oil refinery is still an ongoing discussion; we haven't made a decision on it at the level of Government,” Government’s Chief spokesperson said at the post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday.

He added that the issue of setting up an oil refinery is not one to be taken lightly and decided upon easily.

“These decisions require careful analysis and careful study; and as far as I’m aware, we have not made a decision

in that regard -- that we are going to establish an oil refinery in any part of Guyana,” he asserted.

Minister Harmon explained that there are private citizens and companies that have been expressing interest in establishing oil refineries.

“Every week you have these companies popping up, and so I wouldn’t doubt that there is something out there in the public domain; but what I can say to you is that there is no engagement with the Government in that regard insofar as the setting up of an oil refinery in any part of this country (is concerned),” he clarified.

Oil refinery

The most recent reports of the establishment of an oil re-

finery here was made by local company GuyEnergy during the inaugural petroleum summit – GIPEX – that was held earlier this month.

Chief Executive Officer of GuyEnergy, Dr Turhane Doerga, had revealed that his

Anti-corruption must...

FROM PAGE 3

At the time, Government had been facing much heat from the political Opposition as well as civil society. They had been criticised for the controversial Sussex Street bond, the Hope Wind Farm project, a $605 million solesourced drug contract, the handpicking of a Dutch firm to conduct a feasibility analysis on a new Demerara Harbour Bridge, among others.

They were also criticised for collecting a US$18 million bonus from oil giant ExxonMobil in 2016 but never disclosing the transaction to the nation. Despite being asked repeatedly about it, Government did not come clean until proof of

the transaction came to light through a leaked document.

Campaign financing

One of the areas the TI report had spoken of was campaign financing. For quite some time and during last year’s University of Guyanahosted Constitutional Reform Symposium, the Government has been criticised for not bringing about reforms that would bring transparency to political donations.

Transparency Institute of Guyana Inc had called on coalition Government to reveal the identities of all its donors, pre- and post-elections 2015, and the amount

and or value of their contributions.

This demand had come after statements made by senior Government officials which suggested that individuals who contributed to the coalition’s election campaign were rewarded and there was nothing odd or wrong about that.

Prompted for a response in this regard, President Granger had made it clear that he will not be releasing the names of his party’s donors since it is not a requirement of the law. Insisting that it was not dirty money, he added that the donors, for fear of victimisation, had also requested their identities not be disclosed.

company is working on building a modular oil refinery in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice).

His British partner and Operations Director of the company, Steve Rowan, had stated that the facility would produce fuels for markets both in Guyana and in Brazil using crude oil from ExxonMobil. This facility is expected to have a capacity of 30,000 barrels per day.

Construction is scheduled to start at the end of this year, and be completed in 2019 for operation, ahead

of first oil the following year.

It was explained that the refinery would be operational before the commencement of the 2020 oil production, and as such, crude would be outsourced in the meantime.

The cost for building the modular refinery is pegged at just under US$100 million. A desktop feasibility study conducted by Director of Advisory Services at the United Statesbased firm Hartree, Pedro Haas, had found that it would cost some US$5 billion to build an oil refinery in Guyana, and at least half the invested amount would be lost upon commissioning, with a negative rate of return on investment between US$2 billion and US$3 billion.

Haas had stated mid last year that it was not feasible to establish a refinery with a capacity of 200,000 barrels per day when Guyana’s daily demand is between 13,000 and 14,000 barrels per day.

However, Doerga had posited that Haas only looked at establishing full-scale refineries and not at modular ones.

He explained that the former facility is outdated and catered only for large-scale refining. The GuyEnergy CEO further pointed out that nobody uses large refineries anymore. As such, he could not understand why the government-paid expert did not considered smaller and more efficient modular types used globally in his study.

Nevertheless, based on the findings in the feasibility study done by Haas, Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman had stated back in October that Government would not be going ahead with constructing an oil refinery. He said Government cannot afford such a large investment, but at the same time, he welcomed such investments by the private sector.

In fact, the Natural Resources Minister had said that talks were buzzing about building a much smaller modular oil refinery, and Government is prepared to give favourable consideration that can meet good standards and guidelines.

10 news

saturDAY, February 24, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Night club security guards beaten during “sunrise” fete

Govt sabotage of Region 6 flag raising

“It was a dark night in the history of Corriverton” – Mayor …Town Council to brief ABC countries on ministerial interference

…says local democracy under threat

T

wo security officials attached to the 704 Sports Bar were beaten by a group of patrons at the “Sunrise Fete” held at that facility’s parking lot at Lamaha and Albert Streets, Georgetown on Friday morning.

Injured are Germaine Adams, 33, of Church Street, Georgetown and Kennrick Maynard, 34, of Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

The two men were reportedly providing security at the event when, at about 05:45h, Adams observed a fight some distance from the bar and went to placate the situation. He was instead dealt a blow to the eye with a bottle by one of the men who were fighting. The suspect was later identified as ‘Whistle”.

Adams fell to the ground, and three other males who were in the company of “Whistle” attacked him with broken bottles. As a result,

Adams discharged a round from his service weapon into the air, resulting in the crowd dispersing.

As he turned around, he recognised a colleague pulling an unidentified male out of the bar.

Meanwhile, as “Whistle” and his accomplices were leaving, they attacked Maynard, who was on duty outside of the 704 Building, dealing him several lashes to his face and other parts of his body.

A report was made to his supervisor, who in turn informed the Police ranks who took control of the situation.

Adams and Maynard were taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where they were treated. The firearm, a Glock pistol, was lodged at the Brickdam Police Station Armoury pending ballistics examination.

The suspect “Whistle” and his accomplices are being pursued by the Police.

Corriverton Mayor, Krishnand Jaichand

By Michael Younge

“I

t was a dark night in the history of Corriverton when the Police and Government attempted to undermine the will of the people and our right to local democracy. In all of our 48 years of hosting flag-raising events, this has never happened. I am not only upset, but I am concerned about the embarrassment that we faced; but the people were on our

B Division Commander, Lyndon Alves

side.”

Those were the words of Corriverton Mayor Krishnand Jaichand, who strongly condemned the actions of the APNU-AFC Coalition Government and the Guyana Police Force, which saw them blocking and sabotaging the staging of the town’s annual flag-raising ceremony on Thursday evening into Friday morning.

Speaking with Guyana Times during an interview on Friday afternoon, Jaichand related that neither subject minister Ronald Bulkan nor the leadership of the Guyana Police Force has reached out to the Town Council to formally apologise over the fiasco, which saw the event being halted prematurely.

The mayor has insisted that his Town Council had formally invited Minister Bulkan to deliver remarks at the flag-raising event, but it had not received any response from his office even as the time drew near to confirm the programme and speakers for the event.

“After we got no response, a decision was taken by the full council to invite one Mr Adrian Anamayah to deliver greetings and remarks”, he explained. Anamayah is a resident of Region Six and a Member of Parliament for the Opposition Peoples Progressive Party.

Mayor Jaichand explained that a while after the decision was made, he received a call from Minister Bulkan to plead with him to change the programme to allow Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan to be the feature speaker at the event.

“I told Minister Bulkan that I would speak with the Council, and that is what I did”, Jaichand related as he explained further that while the Council accepted Bulkan’s proposal, it rejected the notion of

Minister Amna Ally

Minister Khemraj Ramjattan

Ramjattan delivering feature remarks and speaking last. It agreed that he should be the penultimate speaker at the flag-raising ceremony, and Anamayah, who was already invited formally, would remain as the last person to address the audience.

Infuriated Govt This infuriated the Government, and saw Social Protection Minister Amna Ally, a senior functionary in the Coalition Government and General Secretary of the People’s National Congress, contacting the Mayor and insisting that Ramjattan be the feature speaker.

“I told Minister Ally that I would speak to the Council. I did, and they held on to their original positions. By the time I called her back within 20 minutes, Minister Ally told me that she has already called the Commander and instructed that the event must not take place,” Jaichand reported.

Asked if he was sure that those were the minister’s exact words and whether he was prepared to stand by what he said had transpired despite the consequences which may lie ahead, the mayor responded in the affirmative.

He related that all plans went ahead, and some 100 persons or more, including children and adults from Corriverton, were scheduled to be part of the cultural programme.

“We got a call from the Springlands Police Station which informed us that we should not go ahead with the event, as no permission had been granted. They said they were acting on instructions from higher up,” the mayor related.

He said a senior police inspector arrived on the scene along with ranks and commenced a campaign to ensure that the event was

not staged. He said the Police present also made some allowances and they were able eventually to say a prayer and hoist the flag, as was planned; but no music or speeches were allowed.

“The whole thing turned out to be an embarrassment, even though we accommodated the minister.

I think the subject Minister of Communities should have been the one to get more involved if they felt they needed to, and not Minister Ally.

At the end of the day, local democracy and local Government organs are under attack,” he posited.

ABC briefings He vowed that the Corriverton Town Council would be informing members of the diplomatic corps, especially the ABC countries, about the unfortunate developments which occurred on the “dark night of February 22 and the morning of February 23.

“Could you imagine that a minister gave direct operational instructions to the ‘B’ Division Commander?” the mayor asked in a puzzled tone. He said an emergency meeting of the full council would be held shortly, wherein it is likely that a motion condemning the ministerial interference and the Police excess would be passed. Mayor Jaichand said the residents of Corriverton are fully supportive of the Council, and before the Police got involved, there were hundreds gathering; but the crowd started to whiter after the situation continued. He argued that it was a classic case of political interference, but he could not immediately list the other remedies available to the Council in sending a clear message that it would not allow its authority to be undermined, or itself be cowed by the ministerial pool.

11 Mash parade 2018 highlights Guyana’s diversity NEWS

saturDAY, February 24, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

By Lakhram Bhagirat

M

usic trucks blasting sweet soca music and revellers gyrating their well-oiled hips is just one representation of the weaving of varying threads of cultures into the fabric that pays homage to Guyana’s diversity, as thousands of Guyanese took to the streets of Georgetown to celebrate the country’s 48th republic anniversary.

The streets of the city came alive as a sea of vibrantly coloured and glittering roisters snaked their way through, rejuvenating the cauldron of harmony known as Mashramani. The representation of various threads of the Guyanese fabric was much evident as the soca-drunk revellers made their way to D’Urban Park as part of the annual Mashramani Costume and Float Parade 2018.

This year, Guyana celebrates its 48th Republic anniversary under the theme “Let us Cooperate and Celebrate Republic 48.” In addition, the thousands of glitter-bathed revellers formed part of the 24-plus bands that participated in the annual parade.

The common message was one of unity and de-

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo among the crowd on Vlissengen Road

leading her band, noted that her wish for Guyana is uninterrupted unity and positive prospects.

“My message is unity. There are so many great things happening in Guyana and Guyana is a great place to be today. I want people to not so much have a conversation about all that is not working and start looking at the glass as being half full, take the positives and let’s look at the positives this great country has to offer,” Hughes said.

Several other Government Ministers and Permanent Secretaries joined their bands as they palanced their way to D’Urban Park for the final showcase. Along the route beginning from the junc-

One of the floats during the parade in celebration of Mashramani 2018

fending champions. The Public Telecommunications Ministry used their band to celebrate their achievements and identify their plans to bridge the telecommunications gap within Guyana and beyond.

Minister Cathy Hughes said she is ready to lead her band and conquer the crown once again as they prepared to smoke the competition. “We are highlighting the vision of this Ministry. (On our float) We got our fibre optic cable and you see our panels and we are going through the length and breadth of Guyana and we are providing Internet and connectivity,” Hughes said.

The Minister, who was

tion of Camp and Thomas Road, the revellers partied all the way into D’Urban Park where they have the last opportunity to impress the judges and spectators.

The Communities Ministry used their band to highlight solid waste management, promoting the practice of reusing, recycling and reducing. They also used the opportunity to distribute garbage receptacles to the patrons that lined the streets to promote their anti-littering policy.

It was observed that Guyana Telephone Telegraph (GTT) was the only major Private Sector organisation participating in the annual float parade.

With over 200 revellers and

three sections – “Emerald Bliss”, “Tanzanite Flame” and “Lapis Lazu” – GTT was one of the biggest bands on the road, during the annual Mashramani and Float Parade.

This year, the telephone company collaborated with Pulse Entertainment to create its band, Amazon Gems and GTT’s Marketing Consultant Samantha Gooden said it was a smooth partnership. She noted that the collaboration happened because of the reputation

Pulse Entertainment has but added that they pushed them to work harder.

Local designer Olympia Small-Sonaram designed the telephone giant’s band and joining the revellers was Chief Executive Officer of GTT, Justin Nedd, who said the band is a representation of the celebration after the hard work, truly embodying the essence of Mashramani.

“This is about GTT getting into the hearts and minds of Guyana and really supporting culture because we believe it is important for companies like GTT to show that we are for Guyana and we are for Guyanese…this is us giving back to Guyana,” Need noted.

Guyana Times caught up with Social Cohesion Minister, Dr George Norton who dubbed the parade a success, noting that the turnout is much larger.

While leading his band, he expressed gratitude to the Guyanese people for turning out in their numbers to

GTT revelers soaking in the parade from a double decker truck

celebrate Republic Day. As usual, thousands of spectators lined the streets of Georgetown to get a glimpse of the floats as the revellers put on a show for them. Spectator Cassandra Nauth related that she is proud of her Guyanese heritage and harmonious spirit.

“I just wish that we all could come together like this on a daily basis and celebrate each other. We all need love and harmony.

I am amazed by the bright colours and the costumes are amazing,” she said.

Another spectator, Mellisa Persaud, said she is happy to be back home from New York, adding that she is extremely proud to introduce her culture to her friends.

Over at D’Urban Park, the bleachers were packed to capacity as the floats made their way into the arena during the late afternoon hours.

12

saturDAY, february 24, 2018 |

24, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

13

Photos by Cark Croker and Lakhram Bhagirat

14 news

saturDAY, February 24, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

West Berbice rice land leases

3 more farmers challenge President’s revocation ... each seeking $1M in damages

F

ollowing the successful challenges of six sets of applicants against President David Granger’s revocation of their Mahaica-Mahaicony-Abary Agricultural Development Authority-Agricultural Development Authority Act (MMA-ADA) rice lands at West Coast Berbice (WCB), three more farmers have mounted similar action in the High Court. The case will be heard by acting Chief Justice Roxane George, SC, on March 21 and the listed respondents are the MMA-ADA and Attorney General Basil Williams.

According to legal documents seen

by Guyana Times, Fariel Johnson, Doreen Monah and Sharon Solomon, through their Attorney, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, are petitioning the court for several detailed declarations and court orders. The applicants are also challenging the compulsorily acquisition of their lease “without the prompt payment of any or adequate compensation”.

The applicants are further seeking the court to declare that the cancellation of the said Lease is “contrary to and in violation of Article 142 of the Constitution of

the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, is unlawful, null, void and of no effect.”

Meanwhile, the three leaseholders are petitioning for a Conservatory Order to be granted which would prohibit the servants and/or agents of MMA-ADA or any other Officer of the State from; “entering upon, remaining, occupying or in any manner whatsoever interfering with the Claimant’s

quiet and peaceful possession, occupation and enjoyment of Lease of State Land for Agriculture Purpose.”

Apart from seeking court costs, the farmers are also asking for damages in excess of $1,000,000 for “breach of

the applicant’s fundamental rights and freedoms as guaranteed to her by Articles 142 and 153 of Guyana’s Constitution.”

The three applicants claimed that there were “duly issued” with leases for 13.844 acres, 11.614 acres and 5.804 respectively in November 2014 in keeping with the provisions provided for in the Mahaica/Mahaicony Abary Agricultural Development Authority Act No 27 of 1977.

The case file notes that on March 18, 2016, they observed a notice appearing in the daily newspaper under the caption “Cancellation of state land leases Seafield and No. 40 Villages, West Coast Berbice”.

This notice informed them that: “Notice is hereby given that His Excellency, the President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana has cancelled all State land leases as described in the Schedules hereunder.”

The applicants further indicated of being unaware of the reason why their Leases were cancelled and further observed that to date, they have not been offered with reasons for the revocation.

The farmers also stressed

Attorney for the farmers, Anil Nandlall

that they were not afforded a hearing “by any person or body or authority offering her an opportunity to show cause” why the Lease should or should not be cancelled.

It was in August 2017 that the acting Chief Justice ruled in favour of Joylyn, Gratien and Herman Nicholson; Tiffany Hubbard and Vaughn Aaron and Brian George and determined that their leases constitute property under Article 142 of the Constitution, and the President’s revocation of those leases amounted to depriving the applicants of property without compen-

sating them. Justice George in December 2017 ruled similarly for three additional farmers – Phillip Johnson, Rupert Blackman and Rawle Miller. The six sets of farmers were each awarded $300,000 in court costs by Justice George which was to be paid from the Attorney General’s Chambers.

The farmers had previously claimed that it was former President Donald Ramotar who granted 50year leases for State land located in the rear of Number 40 Village, West Coast Berbice.

Guyoil launches forum to promote USLD fuel

T

The Guyoil and Staatsolie Marketing Team at the forum in Georgetown

he Guyana Oil Company Limited (Guyoil), in collaboration with the National Oil Company of Suriname (Staatsolie), has, over the last week, hosted a national forum on the benefits of ultra-low sulfur diesel (USLD) fuel in Georgetown, Essequibo and Berbice.

The forum was aimed at informing the public about this newly introduced product which contains less than once per cent of sulfur, and

aids in reducing corrosion while eliminating exhaust blockages and odours. It also maintains the engines of vehicles and reduces the emission of black smoke during vehicle warm-up.

Marketing Advisor of Staatsolie, Dyron Ellis, related that the fuel was created to reduce the amount of sulfur emitted into the environment. He assured that although the sulfur content is low, consumers can expect the same performance

as it relates to mileage when compared to the high-sulfur diesel fuel.

Guyoil is currently working on increasing the availability of the product across its service station network in Guyana.

The cost of the USLD fuel is retailed at the same price as the regular diesel fuel, and consumers who purchase this fuel would be assisting to reduce environmental pollution caused by sulfur

news

15

saturDAY, February 24, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyanese volunteer wins Commonwealth Point of Light award

G

uyanese volunteer Denise Dias has been recognised

by Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom as the recipient of the Commonwealth Point of Light award.

This is in light of the extraordinary voluntary work that she has done in campaigning for better road safety regulations after the death of her daughter Alicea Dias.

Having received the award, Dias noted that she is shocked and “so honoured”. “Even though I haven’t got Alicea in my life now, she continues to

British High Commissioner to Guyana, Greg Quinn, presenting a copy of the award to Denise Dias

save so many lives across Guyana,” Dias expressed.

The British High Commissioner to Guyana,

Farewell parade for Top Cop on Wednesday P

olice Commissioner Seelall Persaud will be given a traditional send-off as he proceeds on pre-retirement leave after recording more than 30 years’ service in that law-enforcement institution. His farewell parade has been scheduled for the afternoon of Wednesday, February 28, at the Police Sports Club Ground at Eve Leary, Kingston Georgetown.

During his final address as Commissioner, at the annual Police Officers Conference last week, Persaud, who is set to retire in April 2018, said: “I have had a wonderful journey, but I do look forward to entering the next phase of my life… I have nothing but best wishes for the Guyana Police Force and for Guyana.”

Persaud last month told reporters the legacy he would leave behind after retiring is reflected in the work he had done for over 30 years in the Guyana Police Force. “I’m not into making legacy. My entire work in the Force was to address issues to meet the objective of the Force, and I never really considered (making a) legacy; but what is there you all know,” he told media operatives in his first public interview since his return from an accumulated six months’ leave.

Since being appointed Police Commissioner, Persaud has spearheaded several projects -- including the highly successful Social Crime Prevention Programme – all aimed at boosting public trust in the Police Force. However, according to the Top Cop, he is most proud of the establishment of the Fallen Heroes Foundation.

“The Fallen Heroes Foundation (is) providing welfare and education assistance to children of Police Officers who were killed in the line of duty,” the Police

Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud

Commissioner stated.

Persaud was appointed acting Top Cop back in 2014, following the retirement of Commissioner Leroy Brummell. He was Head of the Criminal Investigations Department at the time. He was then confirmed as Top Cop the following year by President David Granger.

Persaud resumed duties in mid-January 2018 after being sent on two months “special leave” back in November, when he had returned from four months annual leave. That move was translated by social commentators as Persaud getting the boot. However, the Head of State had subsequently explained that the Top Cop was not asked to proceed on administrative leave, but was merely asked to use up his remaining annual leave. He noted that the coalition Government was not in favour of public servants accumulating leave which sometimes result in them requesting payment for that time.

Nevertheless, there were uncertainties over Persaud’s return in light of recommendations made following a Commission of Inquiry into the Guyana Police Force’s handling of allegations of plans to assassinate President Granger.

On March 29, Andriff Gillard reported to the

Police that his friend and neighbour, Nizam Khan, had offered him $7 million to assassinate the President. He said the offer was made during a conversation between Khan and himself after he had approached Khan to borrow $6 million to purchase a property.

Following the allegation, President Granger had commissioned an inquiry to investigate how the Police had done their investigation of the allegation, and to make recommendations to address flaws and shortcomings of the Police Force.

Retired Assistant Police Commissioner Paul Slowe headed that CoI, and in his recommendations, Slowe suggested that disciplinary actions be taken against Police Commissioner Persaud, and that he be made to resign and be investigated for perjury.

However, Minister Ramjattan had stated that he was not in agreement with all of the recommendations of the report, and had noted that before the recommendations could be acted upon, they would have to be deliberated at Cabinet level. The Public Security Minister had related to this newspaper last month that Commissioner Persaud would remain on the job until his retirement.

Greg Quinn, has since said that Denise Dias has been a tireless campaigner on road safety. “I have been humbled by her work, especially given the tragic circumstances surrounding it.

She is, without question, a very deserving recipient of a Points of Light award, and it is an honour for me to have the opportunity to congratulate her on this occasion,” he said.

The foundation, Alicea Foundation, was established in 1997 following the death of Denise’s 17-yearold daughter Alicea, who was involved in an accident caused by a drunk

driver in 1996. The foundation organises a weekly one-hour vigil outside the Parliament Buildings. For four years, grieving mothers and supporters, dressed in black and carrying pictures of their lost ones, have participated in the vigil. Eventually, road safety legislation was passed.

The amendment in 2002 saw the enforcement of the use of helmets, seat belts, breathalyzers and radar guns.

Her Majesty is thanking those persons from the 53 Commonwealth nations who have made exceptional and inspirational volunteer

work in their communities and beyond. The heads of government of these nations will meet to celebrate the volunteering works and inspire others to contribute towards the social challenges of today. The Points of Light award recognises outstanding volunteers every day of the week, and is given to persons who volunteer their time and service towards making a difference in their communities. The official award for Denise Dias will be presented on April 14 at Pakuri Village, during a Commonwealth Big Lunch hosted by High Commissioner Greg Quinn.

Retinablastoma diagnosis

LM&TC donates $300,000 to assist 3-year-old

T

he Linden Mayor and Town Council (LM&TC) has donated $300,000 to the mother of three-year-old Chrystal John, who was diagnosed with Retinablastoma (cancer of the retina of the eye).

This is to assist with medical expenses.

John, of Amelia's Ward, Mackenzie, Linden, is presently in Cuba undergoing a lifesaving surgery.

However, her family were able to secure only half of the money to cover expenses.

Councillors Eleze Benjamin and Rawle on Friday handed over the cheque to John's mother, LaShawn Daniels, in the presence of outgoing Mayor Carwyn Holland.

Young John left Guyana on Tuesday, but her family is still seeking to raise more funds to offset expenses, since the initial target was not met. The family had initially sought to secure US$10,000, which included the cost for treatment, accommodation, transportation and other costs. A number of organisa-

Councillors Eleze Benjamin and Rawle handing over the cheque to John's mother, LaShawn Daniels

tions, including the Giving Hope Foundation- Guyana and the Sar & B Nonprofit Foundation, have since been on the quest to assist the family in raising the fee with the help of the public.

Crystal John was diagnosed with the life-threatening disease when she was just eight months old, resulting in the removal of one of her eyes. The disease has spread to her other eye, resulting in her being unable to see. In an effort to save her life and prevent further

spread of the disease, her remaining eye had to be removed. Donations to help the toddler can be made via Citizen's Bank Account # 219-002-772 and GBTI Account # 001062730013.

A GoFundMe account has also been set up at GoFundMe:https://www. gofundme.com/crystals-johns-treatment.

Her parents can be contacted on telephone numbers (592) 690 -0866, (592) 6704337 or (592) 687-7171.

16

guyanatimesgy.com

saturDAY, february 24, 2018

Regional

Police foil cocaine ring at Russian Oxfam sex scandal: Haiti embassy in Buenos Aires suspends charity’s operations

H

A

former Russian diplomatic official and an Argentinian Police Officer are among those arrested in connection with a large cocaine seizure at the Russian embassy in Buenos Aires that prompted a yearlong investigation into an international drug ring, officials have said.

The Argentinian Security Minister, Patricia Bullrich, said the 389 kilos (860 pounds) of cocaine were hidden inside luggage seized in December 2016. The RussianArgentines Alexander Chikalo, who is suspected of being in charge of the logistics, and Ivan Blizniouk, a Police Officer accused of providing contacts to jump through customs controls, were arrested on Wednesday.

The investigation began after Victor Koronelli, the Russian Ambassador to Argentina, and three mem-

Sixteen pieces of luggage containing cocaine were found in a school annexed to the embassy

bers of the Russian federal security service told Bullrich of their suspicions about the diplomatic luggage found at a school annexed to the embassy.

After authorities confirmed that there were drugs inside the 16 pieces of luggage, they devised a plan to catch the criminals, swapping the cocaine for flour and placing a GPS to track the luggage.

The luggage was flown to Russia in 2017. Bullrich said three Argentine customs officials journeyed to Russia to monitor the delivery, and that two men, Ishtimir Khudzhmov and Vladimir Kalmykov, were arrested when they went to collect the cargo. Authorities said the drugs had a street value in Russia of about US$61 million (£44 million). (Excerpt from The Guardian)

aiti has suspended Oxfam GB operations, as it investigates claims of sexual misconduct by charity staff after the 2010 earthquake.

The country’s Planning and External Cooperation Minister said Oxfam made a “serious error” by failing to inform Haitian authorities of the allegations.

Aviol Fleurant said a decision on the charity’s right to operate in Haiti would be made in about two months.

Oxfam says it will improve its global safeguarding policies and practices.

In a statement, the charity said its executives met government officials in Haiti on Thursday and were committed to cooperating with the investigation.

It said it would establish an independent commission into the events and put more

staff and resources into its safeguarding teams.

Oxfam added that staff attached to its Italy, Spain and Quebec branches will continue working on projects in Haiti but it was anticipated the temporary suspension will have a “significant impact” on their work.

Oxfam also reiterated its earlier apology to the people of Haiti. Oxfam GB Chief

Executive Mark Goldring told MPs earlier this week he was sorry for damage done to the people of Haiti and to the wider efforts of aid workers.

Seven Oxfam members of staff left the charity in 2011 following the organisation’s own investigation into whether staff hired prostitutes while working overseas. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Antigua-Barbuda PM hints The Bahamas to get US$4.5B oil refinery and storage facility at imminent election

U

S-based Oban Energies is developing a US$4.5 billion oil refinery and oil storage facility off the southern tip of Grand Bahamas Island.

Prime Minister, Dr Hubert Minnis says the project is expected to create 600 direct jobs and 1000 indirect jobs during the construction phase.

The project will launch with an initial capacity of four million barrels, with plans to expand capacity to 20 million

barrels by year four of facility operation. Oban Energies will construct a harbour and deep-sea loading docks to service large vessels, as well as a 50,000 barrel per day petroleum refinery, with plans to expand to 250,000 barrels per day by year four.

Representatives from the government and Oban Energies on Monday signed the Heads of Agreement (HOA) that paves the way for the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process.

The EIA, which is already underway, will ensure that the project advances in an environmentally safe and sustainable manner. Prime Minister Minnis said the signing was “an important step in the approval process for Oban Energies.”

“In December of 2016, the Government of The Bahamas approved Oban Energies to proceed with the construction of an oil refinery and oil storage facility in Grand Bahama. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

P

rime Minister Gaston Browne indicated on Thursday that Parliament will soon be dissolved and hinted that “elections will be in a matter of weeks”, adding to months of speculation that an early election will be called in Antigua and Barbuda.

“This sitting, unless there are any extenuating circumstances, shall be the last sitting until the next General Elections,” Browne told Parliament. The next

election is constitutionally due in mid-2019.

“For those of you who are arguing that the elections are coming too soon, I did say that it will come like a thief in the night,” the prime minister added, repeating an earlier remark to that effect.

Browne also commended both the Boundaries and the Electoral Commissions for taking him “seriously” as it pertained to the likelihood of an early general election.

“Those who are responsible, the electoral machinery and the Boundaries Commission, were very much aware that the elections were probable and imminent,” Browne added while addressing the Lower House on Thursday.

A recent CADRES poll has Browne as the most popular leader of a political party and the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) comfortably retaining power. (Caribbean News Now)

Jamaican tech entrepreneur working Colombia’s Chiribiquete on Caribbean’s answer to Amazon national park to be extended

J

amaica’s leading Information Technology magnate has his sights set on starting the Caribbean’s first major Internet retailer business, like Amazon or Alibaba, focusing on products from the region.

Douglas Halsall, whose company Advanced Integrated Systems (AIS) is still in the midst of an effort to fully digitalize operations at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI), recently spoke to the Jamaica Observer newspaper about his latest passion.

Halsall plans to combine his company’s wealth of knowledge about computer systems and various digital gadgets with the expertise

Douglas Halsall of Advanced Integrated Systems wants to start the Caribbean’s first major Internet retailer business

that has become available to him through his partnerships in expanding the use of e-commerce technology with Indian and other e-commerce experts, to help Jamaica become the “poster child” for

digital expansion in the Caribbean.

He had encountered a major obstacle, however, when he found that only about 14 per cent of Jamaicans use credit cards, which are necessary to access the Internet retail systems. However, Halsall did not let that hinder him.

One of his earlier partnerships led to the introduction of a mobile money platform called Quisk, through which customers of the National Commercial Bank (NCB) are able to carry out cashless transactions using a system implemented by Californiabased mobile payments leader Quisk, in association with AIS. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Students, teacher injured in explosion at Mona High School in Jamaica

T

he Jamaican Education, Youth and Information Ministry has revealed that a formal investigation is underway into an explosion that occurred at the Mona High School just after 17:00h on Thursday.

According to reports from the Ministry, a Chemistry teacher was setting up the lab for a display for Jamaica Day when the explosion occurred. It said the explosion left five students along with the teacher injured.

They were rushed to the University Hospital of the West Indies, where three students were admitted but have since been released after being treated for cuts and bruises from shrapnel.

Two girls along with the teacher are said to be still in the hospital. The Ministry said the

In 2014, President Santos took Prince Charles to Chiribiquete National Park. The park is famous for its tepuis

C

olombian President Juan Manuel Santos has announced plans to extend the country’s largest national park by 1.5 million hectares. Chiribiquete National Park currently covers an area of 2.8 million hectares in the Amazon region.

The lowlands of Chiribiquete have one of the highest rates of plant diversity in the northern Amazon.

The park is also famous for its table-top rock formations known as tepuis, which rise out of the forest.

Chiribiquete was first

declared a national park in 1989. It is located on one of the world’s oldest rock formations, the Guiana Shield.

Because it is extremely hard to access, only a small part of the park has been surveyed.

Not only is it rich in wildlife, some of which is unique to the area, but it also bears traces of ancient human life. In 2014, photographer Francisco Forero Bonell documented ancient paintings on the sheer rock faces depicting animals and humans which are thought to have been made by one of the in-

digenous groups which inhabited the area long before the arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors.

The Colombian Government hopes that Chiribiquete will be added to Unesco’s list of World Heritage sites this year.

The park is currently on Unesco’s tentative list after Colombian Foreign Minister María Ángela Holguín put it forward for inclusion last year. The World Heritage Committee is due to study the application in June. (BBC News)

principal has since confirmed the incident, outlining that only the students working under the supervision of teachers who were setting up displays for Jamaica Day were on the compound.

The principal was unable to say what specifically caused the explosion but noted that the teacher has done this kind of display successfully before. The two students admitted to hospital had blurry vision but were able to discern the form of a hand held up in front of them, the Ministry further divulged.

It said hospital staff remains optimistic that they will not have any lasting vision problem as apparently the problems they are having appeared to be related to the physical trauma and not from exposure to dangerous chemicals. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

saturDAY, February 24, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

17

Around the World

White House indicates it could find funds India Kerala mob takes selfies while lynching man to train and arm 1 million teachers

T

he White House indicated on Thursday that the federal government could come up with the money to fund as many as a million teachers being trained and armed with guns across America in a controversial attempt to keep schools safe from more mass shootings.

This followed repeated assertions from Donald Trump during earlier meetings at the White House, as well as in presidential tweets, that his response to the school massacre in Florida last week is to arm teachers and sports coaches.

It would be a “great deterrent” to killers, he said.

At the White House press briefing on Thursday afternoon, Raj Shah, Deputy Press Secretary, was asked

Trump is considering supporting a rise in the age limit for purchasing an assault rifle to 21, but does not support banning assault weapons for US civilians outright

if it was practical to expect teachers to carry concealed handguns to protect their students from shooters.

“When you have a horrif-

ic situation, what you think and do not think is practical can change,” Shah said.

Teachers’ unions have expressed shock and skep-

ticism that any such plan could be feasible or effective. But at a meeting at the White House with state and local officials early Thursday afternoon, Trump talked of paying bonuses to some teachers, providing “highly adept people, people who understand weaponry, guns ... [with] a concealed permit”.

He suggested paying bonuses to armed, trained teachers, suggesting that “10, 20, 40 per cent” of teachers could be qualified to do so, especially retired military personnel.

Trump had earlier appeared to speak out against the kind of “active shooter drills” that are becoming the norm in many schools. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Missing Nigerian girls declared ‘national disaster’ by President

P

r e s i d e n t Muhammadu Buhari has said Nigeria has suffered a “national disaster” after dozens of girls went missing following an attack by Boko Haram jihadists on their school in North-East Nigeria.

“This is a national disaster. We are sorry that this could have happened,” he said in a statement, issued five days after the attack in the town of Dapchi in Yobe state.

There is confusion over

the number missing after Monday’s attack, with estimates ranging from around 50 to more than 100.

According to a newly formed parents association 105 girls were listed as missing after the attack on their boarding school on Monday evening. With many of the girls failing to return home, fears are growing that dozens have been kidnapped, reviving memories of the mass abduction of more than 200 girls from Chibok in April

2014.

The attack has cast doubt on Nigeria’s ability to secure hard-to-reach rural areas in the remote region and the Government’s repeated claims that Boko Haram is on the verge of defeat. Boko Haram’s relentless assault on Nigeria’s North-East since 2009 has spared few, targeting not only schools but mosques and markets.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) said the tragedy of the

Chibok girls’ abduction had not been forgotten and described the latest kidnapping as a “new horror”.

It said more than 2295 teachers had been killed and almost 1,400 schools destroyed since the jihadist insurgency began in 2009.

The jihadists have increasingly turned to kidnapping for ransom as a way to finance their operations and win back key commanders in prisoner swaps with the Nigerian Government.

(Excerpt from The Guardian)

P

The victim was identified as a tribesman who lived in the area

olice in the South Indian state of Kerala have arrested two people after a video of a mob lynching a man accused of theft went viral. Footage of the incident horrified Indians, along with images of people taking selfies while watching the man, who was tied up, being killed.

The victim was identified as a tribesman who lived in the area. Police told the BBC that they were actively searching for other people involved in the murder.

Senior Police official Prateesh Kumar said a team had rushed to the spot in the state's Palakkad district after receiving information that a man was being attacked. They managed to halt the attack and rushed the man, named Madhu, to hospital. However, he died before he could receive any medical attention, Kumar added. There was wide-

spread horror in Kerala when graphic footage of the incident emerged, and some of it was broadcast on TV. Popular Kerala actor Mammooty made an impassioned statement on Facebook about the incident. "Madhu's death is because our system is responsible... a system which has ordered mob justice and a person who attacks another is no human. How can we declare ourselves modern and progressive?" his post read.

State Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that "strict action" would be taken against the attackers and that the incident was a "blot" on Kerala's progressive society.

"The worst thing that one person can do to another is to take a selfie in such a situation," tribal activist Dhanya Raman told BBC Hindi. (BBC News)

US ready to open Jerusalem Brexit: EU leaders debate financial embassy in May: State Department impact of UK's departure

T

he United States said on Friday it will open its embassy to Israel in Jerusalem in May, a move from Tel Aviv that reverses decades of US policy and is bound to trouble US allies who have already objected.

US President Donald Trump announced last December that the United States recognised Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, infuriating even Washington’s Arab allies and dismaying Palestinians who want the eastern part of the city as their capital. No

other country has recognised Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and Trump’s decision has sown discord between the United States and the European Union over Middle East peace efforts. “We are excited about taking this historic step, and look forward with anticipation to the May opening,” US State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said, noting that it will coincide with Israel’s 70th anniversary. The embassy in Jerusalem will be gradually expanded in existing consular facilities in the Arnona neigh-

borhood, while the search for a permanent site has already begun for what Nauert called a “longer-term undertaking.”

The interim embassy will have office space for the ambassador and a small staff and, by the end of 2019, a new embassy annex on the Arnona compound will be opened, Nauert said in a statement. A May opening is earlier than expected - U.S. Vice President Mike Pence told the Israeli parliament last month that the move would take place by the end of 2019. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Double bombing rocks Somalia's Mogadishu

A

double suicide car bomb blast followed by gunfire has left at least 18 people dead and wounded 20 others in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, medical workers said. A loud explosion reportedly took place on Friday, followed by a second blast and sustained gunfire which broke out near the president's residence. The Aamin Ambulance service, which confirmed the death toll, transported victims to the hospital. The

armed group al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the attack.

"As far as we know, there has been one blast beside the presidential palace, and another close to a popular hotel," Major Mohamed Ahmed, a police officer, told local media.

The attack comes a day after the Somali government had issued a "terror warning" in the capital. The explosions shattered a months-long period of calm in Mogadishu, which is of-

ten the target of attacks by alShabab. In December, 18 Police Officers were killed when an alShabab fighter blew himself up inside the country's main Police Academy in Mogadishu.

The capital was also the target of a truck bombing in October that killed 512 people in the deadliest attack in Somalia's history. The Somali government blamed that blast on the al-Qaeda linked al-Shabab. (Al

Jazeera)

E

U leaders have agreed to spend more on common defence and security policy in their next long-term budget, European Council President Donald Tusk says.

Leaders of 27 states were meeting in Brussels to shape the 2021-27 Budget.

Members have been in disagreement on how to compensate for funding loss after Britain's planned 2019 departure. Germany and France have warned any funding cuts to EU programmes could damage efforts to tackle illegal immigration and terrorism.

Speaking after the meeting, Tusk said leaders had agreed to spend more on security, as well as fighting illegal migration in their next long-term budget.

He said many of the EU leaders were ready to contribute more to the pot, but acknowledged others were less forthcoming.

Deciding how to fill the budgetary hole that Brexit

Macron and Merkel say any cuts to EU programmes could be damaging

will leave is problematic, says the BBC's Kevin Connolly, as net contributors such as Austria and the Netherlands take a sharply different view from net beneficiaries such as Poland and Greece.

While wealthier Northern countries make the case for a reduced budget, poorer member states in eastern and southern Europe are unhappy about the possibility of cuts to programme funding.

Separately, it was also announced that the UK Prime Minister

Theresa May is to deliver long-awaited speech setting out her vision for the UK's future relationship with the EU on March 2.

Speaking on Friday, Tusk said EU leaders planned to push ahead with the release of their own joint stance for future relations in March, whether Britain is ready or not.

He said the bloc would be "extremely realistic in our assessment of possible new proposals", while labelling the UK's approach to the negotiations as "pure illusion". (Excerpt from BBC News)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, February 24, 2018

ARCHIE

Use your energy wisely.

Arguing will lead to conflict (March 21with the powers-that-be. Stay April 19) focused on what's expected of you and be quiet about your likes and dislikes.

ARIES

Donations, joint financial TAURUS ventures and being a Good (April 20- Samaritan should be carried May 20) out with caution. Don't let anyone pressure you into signing up for something you cannot afford or don't want to do.

dilbert

You'll be quick to jump into GEMINI action. Temper your thoughts (May 21and feelings, and avoid getting June 20) into an argument. Be wary of anyone using manipulative gestures to gain control.

Get your personal documentation up to date. Being (June 21- fully prepared will help you July 22) deal with financial, medical or bureaucratic institutions.

CANCER

Peanuts

Someone who wants you to

LEO pay his or her way will take ad(July 23- vantage of your generosity and Aug. 22) desire to have everyone love you. Be firm and offer suggestions, not cash.

A change at home may be VIRGO emotional at first, but if you (Aug. 23ease into the situation, you'll Sept. 22) find a way to make it work.

Your efforts will be appreciated.

Calvin and Hobbes

Emotional mishaps are apLIBRA (Sept. 23- parent if you get into a heated Oct. 23) discussion with a friend, relative or loved one. Take the high road and don't do or say anything derogatory.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

TODAY’S WORD — BLUNDERS (BLUNDERS: BLUN-ders: Serious mistakes often caused by ignorance or confusion.)

Time limit 45 minutes Can you find 50 or more words in BLUNDERS? The list will be published Monday.

YESTERDAY’S WORD — REGALES ease easel else erase gale gear glare glee grease ager agree

alee lager large lase laser lease leaser leer lees sage sager

sale seal sealer sear seer sere serge slag

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

ing a change that will help cut your overhead or bring a dream one step closer to fruition is favoured.

An important relationSAGITTARIUS ship should be handled with (Nov. 23care.

Misunderstandings Dec. 21) and emotional mayhem can be expected if you or someone you are dealing with is evasive. Share your feelings openly and honestly.

Average mark 34 words

rage rale rase real reel regal resale reseal eager eagle earl

Look for common ground SCORPIO when dealing with others.

(Oct. 24Altering your lifestyle or makNov. 22)

solution for Puzzle

Rethink your goals and CAPRICORN (Dec. 22- consider how best to improve Jan. 19) mentally, physically and financially to be successful. Keep up with the times and use experience, knowledge and new methods.

Dig in and help people in need.

AQUARIUS Your humanitarian attitude will (Jan. 20- help stave off criticism as well as Feb. 19) keep you too busy to let tempta-

tion and excessive behaviour take the reins.

PISCES Trouble will brew when (Feb. 20- you're faced with opposition.

March 20) Getting along with others and maintaining peace will be essential if you want to slowly get people to favour your point of view.

saturDAY, february 24, 2018

19

World Cup snub pushed Archer towards England

Jofra Archer represented the West Indies U-19 in a 5-match series against Bangladesh U-19 in Guyana in 2014

B

arbadian born England-based all-rounder Jofra Archer has revealed that anger with the West Indies selectors initially drove him to want to represent the European nation.

The 21-year-old Archer stole the headlines in last month’s Indian Premier League (IPL) draft after becoming the most expensive Caribbean-born player ever selected after fetching a price of £800,000 (US$1,116,456).

Archer, who previously made waves in the Australia Big Bash League, would ordinarily be considered a bright prospect for a struggling Windies team, but has already declared a firm intention to represent England. The player has an English father and British passport but is not eligible to play for England until the winter of 2022 under ECB rules as he did not live in England until after his 18th birthday so needs to complete a seven-year residency period. The lengthy wait has not proven to be a discouragement. Archer played for the West Indies Under-19s three times in 2014 but ultimately missed out on selection for the Under-19 World Cup which took place in the UAE. “I was angry with the West Indies, so that helped me with my decision to come and try to play for England,”l

Jofra Archer will not be eligible for English selection until 2022

27th Annual Easter term windball cricket tournament

Fraser blasts 88 in huge Patentia win

Lynn's shoulder spared Q from the knife C

hris Lynn's latest shoulder injury will not require surgery.

The development, confirmed by his manager Stephen Atkinson on Friday, brightens the batsman's chances of recovering in time for the Indian Premier League. Kolkata Knight Riders, who signed Lynn for USD 1.5 million, will play their first match of the tournament on April 8.

Lynn has had a history of shoulder dislocations, the latest of which occurred when he dived on the field during Australia's T20 tri-series final victory against New Zealand on Chris Lynn suffered a dislocated Wednesday. In tryshoulder while fielding during ing to protect his the Tri-nations final against left shoulder New Zealand on Wednesday

which has been operated upon three times in recent seasons - he dived to his left while going for the ball with his right arm, and ended up dislocating that shoulder. The injury ruled Lynn out of the Pakistan Super League, which began on Thursday. He may be able to return sooner than feared, however, after specialists in Brisbane looked into the extent of damage to his shoulder and ruled that he wouldn't need to go under the knife.

"Chris got a positive result from the doctors who said he will not need surgery,'' Atkinson said. "Chris is disappointed at missing the Pakistan Super League but he will be making every effort to play in the Indian Premier League and, if selected, the five one-dayers for Australia in England in June." (ESPN Cricinfo)

Archer told UK publication The Times in a recent interview. “It wasn’t really anything to do with injuries,” Archer said recalling the omission. “I wasn’t selected, so I had to think about what to do next. Once I knew it was an option, it was an easy decision to move to England.” Recently, Cricket West Indies (CWI) CEO Johnny Grave spoke of hoping to lure the player to the region with the promise of an earlier appearance at the World Cup. (Sportsmax)

wedada Fraser’s swashbuckling 88, the highest individual score of the tournament so far, led Patentia Secondary to victory over L’Aventure Secondary in the female match of the ongoing Easterterm cricket tourney.

Playing in the National Gymnasium, Patentia raced on to 130-2 from their allotted five overs while L’Aventure struggled to keep up with the scoring rate as they finished on 63-3 with Abigail Corbin gathering 26 runs while Sasha Persaud picked up 2-12.

L’Aventure would however snatch a thrilling win over debutants, Goed Fortuin Primary (Top) in a four over a side battle. Batting first L’Aventure smashed 85-2 as Shakira La Cruz blasted 31 not out and Lashuna Whyte contributing 22. Goed Fortuin fell one short of the tie with 84 from their four overs as Tilleyciha Forde coasted to 42.

La Grange Primary School edged West Demerara Secondary by 3 runs in the clash of the debutants. La Grange posted 120-1 courtesy of an unbeaten half cen-

tury from Vasantie Kishore which featured seven sixes while Tesa McDonald supported with 44.

Chasing, West Demerara were restricted to 117-0 with Bancafina Bodhu finding the boundary regularly on her way to 69 not out.

Meanwhile, in the Boys’ division, Goed Fortuin fell to West Demerara after being restricted to 64-3.

Emaunel Danials 3 5 and Carlton Kingston 19 were the top-scorers.

W e s t Demerara then raced to 66-2 with Christopher Rambarose top scoring with 37 and Christopher Gurdyal reaching 18.

L’Aventure boys defeat-

ed La Grange by eight wickets, making light work of their case of 102 for victory.

La Grange were boosted by Kenzie Felix’s unbeaten 47 and Andy Charran (19) but it was good boawling from Tojay Ragnauth that saw them being contained as he bagged 2-15.

In reply Johnathan Samaroo hammered 44 while Vishal John bashed 20 and Jagdesh Ramdeholl collected 18 runs to cruise to victory.

Goed Fortuin suffered a 25 run defeat to the hands of Patentia.

PAtentia got off to a good start and capitalized off of Marieram Singh’s 52 which saw eight sixes and Imanuel Benn’s 45 to reach 104 from their four overs. Goed Fortuin were unable to reach the target having been contained to 79-2 as Satesh Persaud scored 23 and Sherwin Gravesande scored 16.

The tournament is sponsored by the Forbes Burnham foundation and organized by Al Sports.

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

saturDAY, february 24, 2018

International 6 cart off Jeet Brothers Domino title

I

t came down to the final sitting of the final round of the Jeet Brothers of the USA three-way aggregate dominoes tournament to decide the champions and after the dust was settled, International Six were declared winners.

Although the winners suffered in the final stage by a slim margin in the final round at Cold Fusion, Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo last Sunday they still managed 231 games, six more than second placed Cold Fusion on 225 and Canal 6 who were edged out on 224.

The winning margin marked the exact difference between International 6 and Cold Fusion after both teams had entered the final round tied on 156 and Canal 6 trailing on 151.

The first round, played at Nicky’s Restaurant & Bar, Canal Number One, saw Cold Fusion taking an early lead with 78 games with International 6 three games behind on 75 and the home team lagging on 71.

Doodnauth led the way for the winners with 16 games while there were 13 each for Patram Seenarine, Tavindra Mangra and Ramjeet.

The top players for

Cold Fusion’s skipper Boodnarine Persaud (right) hands over the winning trophy to International 6 captain Manniram Shew on behalf of Jeet brothers

International 6 were skipper Manniram Shew and Ron Callender with 16 and 15 games respectively while captain Ramroop Sukhai and Chibar Seopaul made 15 each for Canal 6. Ronald Beharry of International 6 was the lone lovebird (first sitting) but returned to make two sixes in the

second and third sittings.

In another close encounter, played in the Everest Cricket Club pavilion, International 6 took the top spot with 81 games with Cold Fusion occupying second place on 81 and Canal 6 again in the cellar on 73.

For International 6, Mark

Welsh played through and marked an impressive 31 games while Sonia Goodluck (16) and Shew (14) also played well for the winners. Cold Fusion were led by Parmanand Jairam (16), Mangra (13) and Ramjeet (13). Canal 6’s skipper Sukhai played through and tallied 30 games while Chibar

Seopaul and Kedar Seopual made 13 each.

In Sunday’s final round, Canal 6 avoided the ignominy of losing all three games, coming out on top with 80 games with International 6 trailing on 75 and Cold Fusion failing to get hot, ending on a disappointing 69 games.

Oudit Prittipaul was the star for Canal 6, marking the maximum 18 games while there were consistent scores of 14 each for Kedar Seopual and Basdeo Persaud and 13 each from Sukhai and Avinash Persaud. Hilbert Ali topped for International 6 with 17 with 13 each coming from Shew, Andrew Hope and Goodluck. Cold Fusion’s top player was Jairam with the maximum 18 games while Ramjeet had 13. The lone lovebird was Ron Callender of International 6.

Both the winning and second-placed teams were awarded trophies. There were also prizes (caps) for the three top players in the winning team, Shew, Welsh and Goodluck while Shew also collected a clock for the overall best player.

Cold Fusion’s Patram and Canal 6’s Prittipaul also received clocks for their sterling performances.

Papaya orange and McKinnon says GSSF, Government Renault engine for 2018 M working closely

By Clifton Ross

N

e w Guyana S p o r t Shooting Federation (GSSF) President Ryan McKinnon confirmed the local body is working closely with the government to ensure the sport further flourishes for 2018, going forward.

During a recent interview with Guyana Times Sport, the veteran marksman who was recently elected at the federation's Annual General Meeting (AGM); said recent talks with National Sports Commission (NSC) Director of Sport Christopher Jones, on February 19, seemed fruitful for the expansion of the sport.

“I, along with other directors of the GSSF Board met with Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, at the headquarters of the NSC; where the GSSF itself and on behalf of our affiliates, reconfirmed our commitment to work with and support the NSC and other entities such as the various Ministries and their agencies for the continued development of sport in Guyana.”

He continued, “Sport in general will not move without the support of the government in any country. This was recognized by the GSSF from the beginning, as such we have a mandate a set out in our constitution to conform to the criteria set out by the National Sport Commission for sporting organizations,” he said.

Regarding his recent meeting with the sport Director, McKinnon not-

ed that the relationship between the GSSF and the government will only strengthen going forward. “To date, the GSSF continues to fully comply and in this regard, over the years benefited tremendously from the support structures that the Government has put in place for sporting organizations.”

With more persons getting into the sport, coupled with more weekly practical shoots being sponsored, McKinnon believes that the GSSF has made great strides over the recent years and he now plans to ensure that the sport is further expanded.

“I believe that the GSSF has done a great job in establishing itself within the local sporting fraternity as a well administered entity, this shows true in the recognition received, such as National Sports Awards nominations received and those that were conferred.”

Guyana on a whole will benefit from the progress made by the GSSF as it is recognized by numerous international entities. The President further stated that he now wants to embrace the progress of the federation, adding that he will be looking to build on the work that was done by his predecessors.

“With the granting of charitable status to the organization and the multiple international relationships that were so far built by the former board of directors, I have thus tasked myself to strive to continue the good work which preceded my election to the Presidency of this organization. I want to build much more solid relationships with our local sister organizations in the sport-

ing sector so as to have a much more unified sporting portfolio for Guyana,” he ended.

New GSSF President Ryan McKinnon

cLaren have revealed the car they hope will return them to at least relative competitiveness.

The MCL33 has switched from Honda to a Renault engine and is predominantly orange, echoing McLaren's historic 1960s livery.

The car is a clear design evolution of last year's, which was regarded as one of the best chassis on the grid.

Executive director Zak Brown s a i d

success would be "racing and qualifying at the front, getting on the podium."

Star driver Fernando Alonso, who is dovetailing his Formula 1 commitments with a full season with Toyota in the World Endurance Championship, was first behind the wheel in testing on Friday.

"It felt great. It's always a special moment to drive the car for the first time.

Everything felt good," said the two-time world champion after his first laps in the new car.

"Trying to fight for podi-

ums and race victories, that will be our aim.

"The car certainly looks very neat and well thought out, and I think the new colour looks really great - really eye-catching."

The 36-year-old Spaniard will be partnered again this year by Stoffel Vandoorne of Belgium.

Racing director Eric Boullier said: "We never took the easy route or looked to shortcut a process

or a solution - and the result is a car that is neat and well-resolved.

"That said, we are under no illusions that it will be difficult to splinter the hegemony at the front and that the midfield will be full of well-funded, experienced outfits with plenty to prove.

"We are humble about the challenge ahead, but feel we've prepared well, have a solid package that we can build upon and exploit as the season progresses, and have two excellent drivers who will make the difference in races." (BBC Sport)

sports

CLASSIFIED ADS saturDAY, february 24, 2018 | www.guyanatimesgy.com

ACCOMMODATIONS COSMETOLOGY – FULL COURSE $100,000. TECHNICIAN $40,000.

Aracari Salon & Spa, WBD 264-3312, 600-3927 Conferences & Retreats – Full Service: Hotel, Catering & Facilities. Aracari Resort WBD – 264-2946 Alex Wayne Weddings & Anniversaries: Rental or Full Service: Banquet Hall & Catering.

Aracari Resort WBD – 264-2946 Alex Wayne

T

Aracari Hotel, WBD (Near Harbor Bridge) – All Modern Amenities – Rates from $25. Phone 264-2946-8

EDUCATION Electronic classes beginning 6th March. Register early, limited spaces. Abdul Electronics. Tel: 226-6551/ 225-0391.

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

FOR SALE For Sale 1 Honda Pc 50 motorcycle 4-stroke engine. Good condition Come see and offer. Call: 609-0741

JOB OPENING Administrative Assistant for Pro business Builders, we are looking for a highly motivated person to assist a corporate executive and be a part of our team. Your spoken and written English are superb. Send resume to jannessa. kalloo@probusinessbuilders.com

property for sale Lot 15 Public Road, #2 Village, West Coast Berbice. 49ft x 10,314ft Length. $20M Neg. Contact # 6487109 or 686-4818

SERVICES Shalom Enterprise. Lot 2 Croal Street, Stabroek. Obtain an international driving permit covering 131 countries.

Tel: 227-3835, 644-2052. Join us on Facebook FIRST AID/CPR AND HOME NURSING TRAINING COURSES. To enroll: St. John Ambulance Brigade. Call 2259082 or visit 110 Cowan Street Computer Services. Brian Moe @6423543. Computer technician: FB/Brian.

Moe.165/Home and office visits are your comfort!!

A reputable businessman requests the sum of 5million dollars for the period of 6mths.better interest than the bank guarateed..safe and trustworthy..call or text 641-7074

spirituality & ASTROLOGY Spiritual healing: remove blockages, voodoo, excurse, black magic, spell, business, upliftment, pregnancy, love & marriage problems, clearance, etc.

Contact: 694-9569 or 683-5228 Sri Guru Raghavendra Astrology.

Master: VEERA BHADRA. Specialized in: PALM, FACE, PATRA READING & HOROSCOPE BOOK OPENING. An expert in clearing negativity in life by using ancient prayer methods. Gives complete solution to your problems like: love, children, finance, job, marriage, finance and education. Meet him once to get guidance. All religions are welcome. Private and confidential. Tel: 695-9805 & 652-6427.

Kemo Paul

W

indies legend Sir Viv Richards will be unable to join up with Pakistan Super League (PSL) team Quetta Gladiators as they begin the new season as he is yet to secure a UAE visa.

Richards joined Quetta as a mentor in the opening edition of the PSL in 2016.

The team has finished runners-up in back-to-back seasons.

The Gladiators will kick off their

GR Taxi, 24 hours. Phone: 225-7878, 219-5000 or 227-2100

VACANCIES. House Keeper 624-0033 - Cook 624-0033 - Customer Service Assistant 624-0033 - Porter 680-3863 - Pump Attendant 680-3863

camp a i g n against the Karachi Kings at the Dubai

WANTED One Bartender to work at a hotel and bar on the Essequibo Coast.

Accommodation provided. Contact# 500-5923 or 646-3676.

Hotel Manager to work at a hotel and bar on the Essequibo Coast.

Must have experience in hotel management. Accommodation provided. Contact# 500-5923 or 646-3676.

he Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) praised Guyana Jaguars all-rounder Keemo Paul, for his recent selection to the West Indies “A” Team.

The 20 year-old ex-West Indies U19 World Cup winning vice-captain, took another step closer to his foreshadowed West Indies senior call-up when a stellar Regional 4-Day tournament helped pip his chances.

The release from the board read, “As he continues to master his genuine art of being an all-round cricketer, shifting the balance of games into his team's favor, we urge him to stay fo-

cused for he has the makings of a nonpareil cricketer”.

Meanwhile, the Essequiboborn Paul continues to flourish as he presses for an international selection. The right-arm pacer bagged 42 scalps in the 4-Dayers, playing a crucial role in Guyana winning the title for a record fourth straight year.

With the bat, Paul struck 260 runs with a fifty and his maiden first-class ton, a blistering 107 but it was his cameos and the ability to find the ropes and over which has helped catapulted the young Essequibian’s career.

Prior to his call up to the

A team, Paul who had bagged some 19 wickets in the Regional Super50 Cup, was more integral with the ball and played a huge role in helping Guyana to the semi-final stages.

The heartfelt release concluded with the words, “From the onset of his journey Paul displayed vivacity, flair and promise of being one who will be recorded amongst the most optimum of players. Remaining aspired and focused will only see him propelling himself to the most elevated of levels, continuing to make his support team proud”.

Visa woes Walsh, Bangladesh delay new bowlers working on mental toughness PSL season for ‘Sir Viv’

taxi services

VACANCIES

ECB hails Paul on Windies A selection

21

Sir Vivian Richards

International Stadium on Friday.

During the competition’s opening ceremony team captain Sarfraz Ahmed, however, revealed that Richards was unlikely to join the team for the start of the season as he was yet to secure the requisite travel documents.

There will be some West Indies presence on the team.

Gladiators initially drafted Windies T20 captain Carlos Brathwaite, but have been forced to release him with the player currently on international duties at the ICC World Cup qualifiers.

Brathwaite was replaced in the squad by another Barbadian born all-rounder Jofra Archer, who was the recently the most expensive Caribbean-born player drafted in Indian Premier League (IPL) history.

Other West Indians in the league include Andre Russell, C h a d w i c k Walton, Samuel Badree, Denesh R a m d i n , Sunil Narine, N i c h o l a s Pooran, Darren Bravo, Andre Fletcher, D w a y n e Smith and D a r r e n S a m m y .

(Sportsmax)

B

Mustafizur Rahman bowls in the presence of Courtney Walsh (AFP)

angladesh's bowling coach Courtney Walsh will brief pace bowlers in a week-long camp on how to prepare for certain match situations. Becoming more consistent and mentally strong are other areas in focus as they prepare for the Nidahas Trophy T20s in March, which involves India and hosts Sri Lanka. The camp started on Friday and will go on until March 2.

Bangladesh's pace bowlers have come under increased scrutiny after their failure to stop Sri Lanka batsmen in the two T20s that rounded up a miserable home season for Bangladesh. Sri Lanka won the T20 series by putting up scores of 194 and 210, and losing eight wickets across the two matches.

As a result, BCB president Nazmul Hassan ordered a special training camp for the pace bowlers, under Walsh, which includes Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed and Rubel Hossain among the 14.

"We are working on the mental side of bowling in the camp," Walsh said. "They have to back themselves and keep it simple. In my assessment, that's what has happened in the last series. The guys went a little bit over the top in terms of trying a bit too hard. They have to know what best to do in a situation and how to execute it. If they get the consistency, eight out of ten times it will work in your favour. We are trying to get them to be consistent and remain relaxed with the execution."

Walsh said that the camp will also take

the bowlers back to basics, to give them a better understanding of pace bowling, and at the same time work on their consistency. "We haven't bowled as consistently as we would have liked so this camp is to focus on that. They have to understand their roles in the upcoming tour.

"The camp is also to make them know what fast bowling is all about, and the hard work that is required. It is a combination of both. We are trying to keep it simple. We are focused on the consistency, working on the skill-set and get a better understanding of it."

The camp includes six uncapped pace bowlers, some of whom appeared in the BPL in November last year. After initially seeing what they bring to the table, Walsh said these young pace bowlers, whom he is seeing for the first time, will be taken through the rigours.

"It is the first time I am seeing some of these guys properly," he stated. "To look at them today was to assess them and see what they have. Over the next few days, we will be doing specific work on individuals. They have to improve their departments.

"If they are weak in any department, we will work on it. If they are strong, we will get them to be stronger. It is to develop the overall skill of the player. At the end of the day, I am here to make Bangladesh cricket as best as it can be, and for the bowlers to be a lot more consistent." (ESPN Cricinfo)

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

saturDAY, february 24, 2018

CWI/ Regional Super50 Cup 2018 final…

Steady Pride, erupting Volcanoes settle score today

By Clifton Ross

W

ith a win each in the early stages of the tournament, the finals of the 2018 Regional Super50 Cup will see either the Windward Volcanoes or defending champs Barbados Pride hoisting the Clive Lloyd Cup tonight at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.

Both sides hold victories over each other at the Group stage earlier in the tournament in Barbados with the hosts and defending champions crushing the Volcanoes by 100 runs before the Windwards would erupt a few days later to whip the champs by 22-runs.

Barbados disposed of the red-hot Kent Spitfires in the first semis to claim the first spot in the finals while on the other hand the Volcanoes were tasked with battling competition favorites and reigning 4-Day champs Guyana Jaguars who were seemingly on the verge of finally adding elusive the Super50 title to their collection.

Tyrone Theophile’s ton and Man-of-the-match Kavem

Hodge’s 3-48 along with his half-century; were enough to put the hungry Jags down, thus sealing the second spot in the finals for their team.

With both finalists in form, it will b e

a clash of the franchise t h a t makes the least mistakes and given Coolidge’s recent history, the batsmen on both sides will be tasked with scoring big come Saturday.

Although slightly depleted due to players having international assignments, the star-studded Pride still have two batters in the leading run-scorer list, with West Indies all-rounder Roston Chase sitting in the top spot with 514 runs and skipper Kraigg Brathwaite with 264 runs.

Along with West Indies limited overs player Jonathan Carter, veteran Kevin Stoute and a few others, Barbados will fancy their chances of posting a formidable total or chasing a big one for a repeat of the title they won last year at the same venue.

Volcanoes on the other hand, have just one batsman in the top 10, opener Devon Smith who racked up more than 1000 runs in the Regional 4-Dayers and trails hopes on the list at number six with his 288 runs.

Smith, along with Theophile, Hodge, Kirk Edwards and

West Indies opener Johnson Charles and all-rounder Kyle Mayers will play a key role for their team. Bowling-wise, both teams have been doing well with the ball as off-spinner Shane Shillingford leads the bowling chart for the Volcanoes with 21 wickets while Mayers seals off 10th place with 19 wickets.

The Pride have lost some sting in their bowling department, losing frontline pacers Miguel Cummins and Kemar Roach along with off-spinner Ashley Nurse to international duties as the West Indies embark on their World Cup qualifiers campaign.

After much deliberation on whom the two finals team will be, the veil of smoke has lifted after weeks of intense cricket and the two best teams will now meet under lights at the Coolidge Cricket Ground, Antigua with bowl off set for 14:00h local time with live coverage on ESPN.

Tapeball All eyes on Sparta cricket as action kicks off tonight returns to the tarmac

Corona Futsal Tournament 2018

The likes of Gregory Richardson will again be the backbone of one the country’s top futsal teams in this year's Corona Tournament

S

parta Boss will start tonight’s Corona Futsal Tournament as defending champions, albeit the tournament carried a different flagship last year and the attention will be can they retain their crown when action commences tonight at the National Gymnasium.

The tournament which is the brainchild of Petra Organisation and is also being held in collaboration with NAMILCO Wheat Gem, saw Sparta win the crown in the competition’s second year after an engrossing final with Back Circle which wowed the capacity crowd at the Gymnasium.

Though history and the ability to rise on the big stage rest in their favour, other teams have come equally

adapt which throws this tournament wide open. It was evident in a just concluded tournament where Sparta were showed they are no longer the boss by Bent Street in the final.

With new acquisitions like Jermin Junior, Quincy Adams and Jeremy Garrett, the team is still building to find their every-flowing synergy of the past.

Bent Street on the other hand have added the talented Pernell Schultz to unit that included Daniel Wilson, Kelsey Benjamin and Ryan Hackett.

More so, the Edwards brothers, Raphael and Dennis have been reunited at Tucville, which should contain the likes of Nicholas McArthur

and Delon Williams.

Other teams that fans should keep an eye out for include Alpha Warriors who have required the talismanic Job Caesar while Delon Lanferman is expected to suit up for YMCA-All Stars; Californa Square is also set to assembling a star squadron.

Meanwhile, tonight’s fixtures will see Plaisance face Mocha from 19:00h followed by Future Stars being pitted against Team Xtreme from 19:50h.

YMCA will battle Albouystown from 20:40h. Leopold Street and Alexander Village will then duel from 21:30h after which Back Circle and Broad Street lock horns at 22:20h; the show closer will be Sparta against a youthful Tiger Bay a from 23:15h.

The lucrative tournament sees the winning purse being $600,000 and the championship trophy. Second to fourth will take home $300,000, $150,000 and $75,000 along with the corresponding accolades.

More so, with teams being split into six groups of four, the battle will not be just to progress to the knockout stages but cop the group prizes; $40,000 for first place team, $30,000, $20,000 and $10,000 will be awarded to second to fourth-place group teams.

The next match day is scheduled for February 27 and fans will be reminded a Hero Motorcycle will be awarded to a lucky spectator and the Most Valuable Player at the grand finals on Easter Saturday, March 31.

T

The National Cultural Centre “Tarmac” will be a hive of activitiy on Sunday

he Ministry of Foreign Affairs through Sport Organizer, James Lewis and the Tape-ball Association will stage a one-day super six competition on Sunday February 25 at the parking lot of the National Cultural Centre from 09:30h.

The competition is open to government ministries and other organizations across the country and be of six overs per side at the venue that is fondly referred to as the tarmac.

Interested teams must pay an entrance fee of $5,000 no later than 09:00h on the day of the competition.

Registration may be done by contacting organizer, James Lewis on 628-1656 or 666-5857.

The Honourable Minister’s trophy and cash incentives are at stake for the winners while the losing finalist will receive a trophy.

saturDAY, february 24, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

23

Hero Caribbean Premier League 2018

Player pool increases by 36% ahead of draft T

…overseas interest grows by 50%

he final list of players that have made themselves available for the 2018 Hero Caribbean Premier League has been sent to the six franchise teams ahead of the draft which will take place in London on March 1.

The number of players that have put their names forward for the draft has increased, as has the number of countries from which the overseas players are from.

There has been a 36% increase in player registrations overall and a 50% uplift in overseas players who have shown an interest in playing in the Hero CPL in 2018.

A total of 227 overseas players have registered for the draft, an increase from 151 from last year.

There are 121 West Indian cricketers that have put their names forward for selection, an increase from 107 from last year.

There are cricketers from 18 countries who will be in the player pool on draft day, with the most coming from Pakistan (53) and Sri Lanka (32). There are also cricketers from England, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Bangladesh, Zimbabwe,

Afghanistan, Ireland, Canada, USA, Oman, Hong Kong, Scotland, Nepal, UAE and Kenya.

Some of the players that will be available for selection or retention this year will be Brendon McCullum, Chris Lynn, Mohammad Amir, D’Arcy Short, Kieron Pollard, Chris Gayle, H a s h i m Amla, S h a h i d Afridi a n d Usman Khawaja as well as English players Alex Hales and Adil Rashid.

This year the tournament window means that all West Indies national team players will be available for the tournament.

In addition to the players that have reg-

istered for the draft, or those that have been retained from last year, teams will also select a player from the ICC Americas region. These players can either be retained from last year or from the USA

Jamaican Chadwick Walton was the leading batsman in 2017 with 458 runs for the Guyana Amazon Warriors

Cricket squad that has been part in the current Super50 Cup. COO of Hero CPL Pete Russell Speaking about the interest from the international and Caribbean cricket community, Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the Hero CPL Pete Russell, said: “We are delighted with the response that we have had to the Hero CPL draft this year. Every year we have seen an increase in the standard of players who want to be part of the Biggest Party in Sport, and 2018 is no different.”

This year, the six team tournament is due to start on August 8 in Guyana, the home of the Amazon Warriors while the final is set for September 16 at a venue to be announced.

Trinbago Knight Riders are the defending champions after the Dwayne Bravo side beat a spirited St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots unit lead Pakistani Sohail Tanveer

by Chris Gayle in the final has been on target in 2017 at the Brian Lara with 20 wickets in Stadium.

2016 and 17 in 2017

BVA

Prem’s Electrical hails top supports Regal's Orlando Cup quest performers

O

ne of the nation’s leading electrical store, Prem’s Electrical have thrown their support behind the country’s leading softball teams, Regal Masters and Regal All Stars for the upcoming Orlando Cup 2018.

At a simple ceremony on Thursday at the company’s Alexander street Georgetown location, Darshani Narine on behalf of Prem’s Electrical said that the company is always willing to shed light to anything that will make a positive impact in society especially involving sport and youth.

The company’s assistance will help Regal teams prepare and compete in the tournament scheduled for March 16 to 18 in Orlando, USA. In 2017, Regal Masters and All Stars swept the tournament and are looking for a repeat.

In accepting the sponsorship, team manager Parmanand Persaud expressed appreciation on behalf of the teams and said that it will help the players to focus solely on playing rather than thinking how to

T

BVA awardees pose with their spoils

Darshini Narine (left) handing over the timely sponsorship to Parmanand Persaud

get to Orlando.

The Orlando Cup softball tournament is shared annually the Florida Cup on a tion basis. It features

is a that with rotamale

teams with players over 45 years old competing in the Masters’ category and players of any age rubbing shoulders in the All Star category.

he Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA) acknowledged its top performers recently as part of their 2017 annual awards and presentation ceremony held at the Port Mourant Training Centre Hostel, Port Mourant Berbice.

The committee led by President and national coach Levi Nedd selected the awardees with the male champion club of the year award going to the dominant Port Mourant Training Centre (PMTC) who won all but one of the tournaments played in 2017.

The female champion club award went to the Port Mourant females who were also keen to the task in their performances, duly representing Guyana in Suriname and French Guiana with honor and success.

The GuySuCo Training Centre Port Mourant (GTCPM) was named the junior club of the year while BVA volley-baller of the year is Samuel Fraser of the PMTC

while Ronaldo Bobb of the PMTC is the male volleyball player of the year for his right approach and discipline towards the game.

Female volley-baller of the year was Candacy Mentore of the Port Mourant Female Volleyball Club while Junior/most promising player of the year award went to Andy Rohoman of the No#52 Survivals and the Tagore Secondary School.

He was adjudged the MVP of the BVA Inter Secondary School’s tournament, after leading his school to victory further excelling at the IGG tournament in Suriname and on a tour to Trinidad. He was awarded best attacker while in French Guiana in the Under 20 tournament.

Errol Chase was selected as the Referee of the year while the most disciplined player award was presented to Tyrone Farley a junior player from the Corriverton Jets volleyball club.

saturDAY, february 24, 2018

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Hero Caribbean Premier League 2018

Player pool increases Pg 23

by 36% ahead of draft …overseas interest grows by 50% In 2017, the Guyana Amazon Warriors comprised four overseas players, one ICC Americas player and 12 West Indies players including six locally-based players

CWI/ Regional Super50 Cup 2018 final…

Steady Pride, erupting Volcanoes settle score today Roston Chase Tyrone Theophile 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.