Guyanatime 30 march 2018

National Library receives books and laptops P13

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

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Friday, March 30, 2018

Issue No. 3519

‘Eyewitness’ to Kingston Seawall shooting lied – Top Cop Page 2

...Nigel Hughes takes Top Cop to task over statement, produces more witnesses

3 injured in Providence accident

NICIL’s assets Page used as 3 collateral to secure $30B bond

Page 6

– Heath-London confident it could be repaid in 5 years

PRICE

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE: Border controversy

Guyana files case with P7 ICJ against Venezuela’s claims

Jagdeo wants apolitical approach to oil sector P5 $550M Zeelugt drug bust

Witness testifies to counting, P6 marking cocaine stashed in lumber

Business P10 owners urged to consider models to tackle high unemployment

– State Minister tells GCCI

Education P8 Ministry signs US$83,000 agreement to boost TVET

Holy Thursday Mass, which commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus with his disciples, at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception on Brickdam, Georgetown. The Mass precedes the traditional three-hour Good Friday Mass many will be attending today in remembrance of Jesus’s suffering on the Cross (Carl Croker photos)

Govt denies moving, using US$18M signing bonus Page 5

…says monies earmarked for Consolidated Fund

Page 6

Wife, friend get death penalty for killing husband

29-year-old gets 65 years for raping girls aged 14 P6 and 8 Cop charged with rape of P8 15-year-old

2 news

friDAY, march 30, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

‘Eyewitness’ to Kingston Seawall shooting lied – Top Cop …Nigel Hughes takes Top Cop to task over statement, produces more witnesses

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s investigators continue their probe into the Kingston Seawall shooting, the alleged eyewitness to the incident is now being sought by Guyana Police Force after it came to the conclusion that his statements were riddled with flaws.

The alleged eyewitness, Devon Lyte, a construction worker of Mc Doom, Greater Georgetown, came out two weeks after the incident and accused the Police of executing the three men.

In the presence of his Attorney, Nigel Hughes, Lyte claimed that on the day Dextroy Cordis, called Dutty, of Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD); Kwame Assanah of Buxton, East Coast Demerara (ECD) and Errol Adams, called Dynamite, were fatally shot, he was working on the roof of the Guyana Softball Association on Carifesta Avenue.

The account of the incident he gave vastly differed from that given in a statement issued by the Police.

Acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine

According to Attorney Hughes, the facts presented by Lyte seemed to suggest that it was an execution.

As such, a probe was launched by investigators and based on findings, acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine described Lyte’s statement as “reckless”.

In a press conference held with the media on Thursday, Ramnarine rebuked Lyte for attempting to tarnish

the “good work” of the Police Force.

“It is painful; that you can have someone turn up at your office, give what purports to be a story that has national implications and impugns the good work and reputation of a national institution and its officials rushed to publicise, it is all over the world and then after the fact, you turn up at a location to find that it cannot be substantiated. If it is not grossly reckless, it is truly irresponsible behaviour,” the Top Cop stated.

However, Attorney Hughes has taken the Top Cop to task over his statement and produced more witnesses to corroborate Lyte’s account.

(See letter on page 5) Since the initial disclosures were made by Lyte to the media and a statement handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), he has been sought by Police.

According to Ramnarine, the alleged eyewitness was scheduled to be questioned

thoroughly by CID investigators, but he failed to show.

Numerous calls made by the Crime Chief, Paul Williams and other senior ranks proved futile.

Ramnarine said, “When he (Williams) got on to his learned attorney, we were told

gations saw three “solid” witness statements being given to Police which proved statements Lyte gave to be untrue.

“We have several statements, three of which are very instructive to the extent that Mr Devon Lyte was never ever on the roof of the building he claimed he was on… one of the statements is from

Attorney Nigel Hughes and his client, Devon Lyte

that he (Lyte) had family issues. We were then told that he and other witnesses of this learned attorney wanted protection.”

In the meantime, investi-

the contractor, one from the sub-contractor and one from a security supervisor…he was a labourer on the ground floor of the building,” Ramnarine revealed.

As such, the Top Cop is calling on credible witnesses to come forward, and further reprimanded Lyte for lying.

Further, Ramnarine vowed for the integrity of the ranks involved in the shooting incident and those currently carrying out the investigations.

“I want to ask persons with information to come forward, because these are se-

nior officers whose numbers are known, because the Force is more open now, there is nothing to be afraid of … the [Office of Professional Responsibility] OPR is also being led by a very competent Officer who was awarded the best cop award on several occasions,” Ramnarine said.

Earlier on Thursday, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon revealed that a coroner’s inquest into the incident would be carried out by the Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

President David Granger, who initially ordered an investigation into the fatal killings, has decided that following findings from the investigation, it would be determined whether there was any culpability for the shooting incident.

“We have ordered an investigation into the circumstances under which the men came to be killed and I believe some actions will be taken to have the files sent to the DPP to determine whether there was any blameworthiness in the death of the persons,” Granger told reporters on Wednesday.

On March 15, 2018, the three men who were said to be trailing a customer from a bank in the city to the Seawall were reportedly caught in the act.

They engaged Police ranks in a shootout, but were all killed. A fourth suspect is still be sought.

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friDAY, march 30, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Friday, March 30 – at 04:00h and a day retraction from 14:30h-16:00h and Saturday, March 31 – 05:00h-06:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, March 30 – 15:40h-17:10h and Saturday, March 31 – 16:20h-17:50h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Weather: Sunny intervals are expected to give way to cloudy skies throughout the day, with partly cloudy to clear skies in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 19 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Ranging from East North-easterly to Northeasterly between 1.78 metres and 5.36 metres.

High Tide: 03:50h and 16:10h reaching maximum heights of 2.68 metres and 2.74 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 09:44h and 22:03h reaching minimum heights of 0.51 metre and 0.48 metre respectively.

wednesDAY, MARCH 28, 2018

LOTTERY NUMBERS L

06

07 20

22 24 25

21 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2018

DAILY MILLIONS 09 11 15 24 26 LUCKY 3 8 1 2 Afternoon Draw DRAW DE LINE

03

06

07

9

3

10

3

Evening Draw

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

NICIL’s assets used as collateral to secure $30B bond – Heath-London confident it could be repaid in 5 years

By Samuel Sukhhnandan

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ne day after announcing that the Special Purpose Unit (SPU) was successful in acquiring a syndicated bond worth $30 billion to assist with the revitalisation of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), Head of the SPU of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), Colvin Heath-London has now revealed that the entire NICIL balance sheet was used to obtain this bond.

Heath-London told Guyana Times in an exclusive interview on Thursday that the bond was attained from both regional and local commercial banks with a favourable repayment rate over a five-year repayment period.

He reiterated that the bond was secured at good rates with local banks being the lead lenders, and noted that the disbursement of this loan to GuySuCo could take place in two weeks’ time.

“Most of the institutions are local and regionally with Republic Bank as the lead. I would not like to divulge the interest rates but it’s very favourable. In the agreement there is a possibility of us repaying before time… and we have due consideration with the bond where we can repay a one-year moratorium.

Also, we could get things together before we start repaying,” he explained.

However, the new revelation made by the SPU head now means that besides putting up the assets belonging to GuySuCo, assets from other companies that fall under the purview of the NICIL was used as an advantage to acquire this massive loan for GuySuCo. NICIL is the holding company for Government-owned minority and majority interests, and property management.

“It is basically using the balance sheet of NICIL to collateralise the bond,” the SPU head explained. He also revealed that it may be the largest bond GuySuCo has taken out in their his-

in the GuySuCo space selling designated lands. So we will have income from that.

The potential of privatising the estates, we will also have income from that. So, we are collectively confident that within the five-year period we will be able to repay this bond.”

He brushed aside suggestions that taxpayers will have to foot the huge bill that GuySuCo has acquired, explaining that rev-

streams will be created.

The idea behind the borrowing of this syndicated bond is to assist the SPU with the reopening of the estates to prove to potential investors that they are viable. Heath-London was clear that the loan will also assist with plans to make GuySuCo debt-free and return the industry to profitability.

The Opposition is of the firm view that the idea of se-

enue from GuySuCo and their associated businesses will help to repay this bond.

“GuySuCo through its related Ministries will have to sit and decide what it is to be done. The bond will help to bring additional businesses to GuySuCo in terms of their commitment to cogeneration, different sugar product sources in terms of value added, and ultimately the Ministry will decide the route.” He said he doesn’t envisage any misuses of the funds, as different income

curing a syndicated bond is mainly aimed at clearing the multibillion-dollar liabilities that GuySuCo has accrued, in order to give “handpicked” investors a clean slate and better opportunities to maximise their profitability when they purchase estates.

Some 4000 sugar workers from Enmore, Rose Hall and Skeldon were dismissed from their jobs following the downsizing of the sugar industry which began to take effect in late 2017.

SPU Head and GuySuCo Chairman, Colvin Heath-London

tory, something that was raised by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, who has expressed scepticism and worry over the fact that the proposal by the Government to spend $30 billion on three or four estates could result in a significant portion of the funds being “wasted” given the track record of the People’s National Congress Administration.

Jagdeo had also questioned whether the move by GuySuCo and NICIL even fits in with the long-standing policy of the current Government to borrow longterm loans only on concessional terms. He claimed that the bond was a ‘commercial debt’ that may have not even been concluded on concessional terms.

Pressed to explain if this may be true, Heath-London said, “I wouldn’t want to speak to that but what I would like to say is, the idea is to let GuySuCo be self-financing and to reduce the burden on the taxpayers to find funds for GuySuCo and to basically operate our financial affairs in a context where we at GuySuCo can sustain the business…

Normally they were totally for the most part wholly dependent.”

While there are concerns about debt servicing and the impact of what happens with securing loans or bonds at a specific interest rate, Heath-London said, “We are confident because there are other things basically afoot

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friDAY, march 30, 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

Good Friday

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hristians around the world, inclusive of Christians in Guyana, will today be observing Good Friday. Christians on this day commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ at Calvary by observing a really quiet and solemn celebration as they reflect on his suffering and death on the cross. It is a commemoration to remind Christians that innocent Jesus suffered brutally at the hands of the worldly authorities.

According to the Gospel, Jesus was betrayed by Judas on the night of the last supper, commemorated on Holy Thursday. Today, as Christians remember the life and eventual crucifixion of Jesus Christ, one must also consider the public service role of the church in society. From a layman’s perspective, the church is a hospital for sinners and not an exclusive club for saints and, as such, it is where people seek refuge when in need of “spiritual fixing”. With all the weight and pressures of their world weighing down on their minds, people expect the church to provide answers which no other institution can provide. As such, the church plays an important public service role within the community and immediate environs in which each individual edifice is located.

In Guyana, there is no doubt that the church – whether Christian, Hindu (temple) or Muslim (masjid) – plays a significant role, both socially and otherwise. However, there seems to be a need for a more dominant role of these institutions in tackling crime among youths. The involvement of youths in crime is no secret in Guyana. A glaring example of this is a quick perusal of any of the dailies where many of the perpetrators of crime – petty or serious – are youths, although this phenomenon is not limited to these shores only.

These religious institutions make a difference in people’s everyday lives and many of our churches are deeply rooted in communities. It is through this medium that these religious institutions can impact youths and crime. The church, through outreach programmes, can impact neighbourhoods making them not only generous but safe. Because of the influence that churches have over their congregation, Government should tap into this and offer support to churches (Christian, Hindu, and Muslim) to finance projects that will enable them to more effectively tackle issues of poverty, which in many cases are the root cause of crime.

This support will to a greater extent encourage churches to develop a broader vision for how they might have a greater impact on the lives of people in local communities and their surrounding environs.

There is no doubt that youths of today are faced with numerous challenges, even more challenges than there were in years gone by and, as such, to adequately address the issues, emphasis must be placed on the church, which is one of the institutions that first touch the lives of youths.

Churches, with adequate financing, can help address the issue of crime by instilling values that relate to moral compasses being missing in many of today’s youth. Among these values are honesty, respect, spirituality, and a sense of justice and fairness.

Happy Easter to all our readers!

One little boy is very happy that he has got his kite. Kite vending adds a riot of colour to the streets of downtown Georgetown and other urban areas around this time (Carl Croker photo)

Jordan pawns GuySuCo for $30B – Ramsaroop Dear Editor, Finance Minister Winston Jordan has pawned the remaining working assets belonging to the Guyana Sugar Corporation for $30 billion; and while the promise is to keep the industry open, this is not the case.

The announcement by Government that it had found $30 billion to invest in the Albion, Blairmont and Uitvlugt estates cannot be taken at face value, since this is a $30 billion loan on top of the more than $80 billion the company is claimed to already owe.

I wish to draw a quick reference to the adage, ‘all that glitters is not gold.’ The Granger Administration, this past week, announced that it had secured $30 billion to be invested in the remaining three estates in order to return them to profitability.

The devil is in the details.

What the Special Purpose Unit (SPU) has in fact secured is a pawnbroker in the form of Republic Bank.

The loan for the sugar industry is what we call a syndicated loan. What this means is that Republic Bank has agreed to manage a loan portfolio as against lending GuySuCO its customers’ money.

The bank is not lending GuySuCo anything. What the bank has found is a set of persons who are going to put in some money, to be repaid within a short space of time.

A school child would be able to tell that the sugar industry is facing financial difficulties as is, and so pawning off all of its assets in hopes that one bright idea would be forthcoming out of Congress Place is in itself a not-sobright idea.

A syndicated loan is one wherein the bank finds persons or companies with money willing to be put into a venture, and the bank in turn ensures that the syndicated loan is repaid as a priority out of any revenue stream.

What this will mean for GuySuCo—a company already struggling to pay its basic

bills—is that it will soon begin to default on those loans.

There is no doubt the bank will ensure that such a risky transaction is insulated as best as possible, and this would mean Government guarantees and high interest rates.

Is the sailor Minister Jordan making a bad situation worse, or have we caught wind of skullduggery at epic proportions? The announcement came at a time when the national gaze is on the oil and gas industry. I predict that, in the very near future, the sugar company will begin to default on its payments to Republic Bank, since there is only so much cost cutting you can do before having to actually shut down. You have already sent home thousands of workers and closed a number of estates. Without a comprehensive strategy for the industry, the David Granger Administration has now pawned out the only three remaining sugar estates, and when the company is unable

to repay on its loan, Republic Bank will take the assets and sell them off as scrap in order to pay off the loan, ‘end of story.’

This obtains even as the Government continues to sell out large plots of GuySuCo cane lands, and instead of investing the earnings into saving the industry, the PNC government has laid its cards on the table: not only will the industry be closed, but the factories will be sold as scrap metal.

You remember what happened to the thousands of sugar workers who were fired in January this year? They are still to be provided with some form of alternative source of income or employment.

What is going is like a firesale of GuySuCo, and what’s left abandoned will simply be sold as scrap metal -- the end of a long and proud era of modern Guyanese history.

Sincerely, Dr Peter Ramsaroop

The magic of Guyana cross-buns Dear Editor, Every year, as Easter approaches, something almost magical happens: bakers throughout Guyana prepare themselves for a particular phenomenon; in my opinion, a mystical phenomenon -- the massive demand by Guyanese from all backgrounds for delicious, freshly baked crossbuns.

For many years, the original cross-bun recipe has been tweaked in different ways to produce a wide variety of unique Guyanese products. Tips and tricks of crossbuns’ preparation have been handed down from mother to daughter and from father to son over many generations.

Individuals and families

who don’t have the time or skills to bake their own crossbuns have to place their orders early with their favourite bakers and patisseries. The demand is high; if you wait too late, there’s a good chance that they might be sold out.

And there is much debate over what cross- buns taste best, and where they can be bought.

Come Good Friday, some people eat only cross-buns, sometimes with cheese, or even peanut butter or jam.

While the cross-bun is associated with the Christian observance of Good Friday, Guyanese from all religious backgrounds pursue their share of this delicious treat, which is essentially a sweet

bun symbolically marked with a cross. There is a beautiful, silent contract among Guyanese where this, the smooth, rich bun enhanced with dried fruit and spices, is concerned. The contract is to make the bun only for Good Friday.

Known as the Easter Bun in some countries, the crossbun’s history is somewhat blurry. But it is said that a monk made the first one, and marked it with a cross in observance of Good Friday.

It is felt that if the bun is consumed bearing in mind the solemnity of the occasion, miracles can occur. Some claim they have seen the Lord, while others claimed they saw the Mother of Christ.

The British, in the early days, felt the bun had healing or magical properties.

I wish to take this opportunity to recognize the bakers, consumers and all peoples of this country for their wisdom in preserving this recipe, and the fact that they do not use it during any other period of the year other that on Good Friday.

We, as a people, also know that good food brings good health and happiness to the human soul and human heart.

Whether it’s cross-buns or parsad, black cake or siranie, food is a great tool of unification among people.

Respectfully, Roshan Khan Sr

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friDAY, march 30, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Govt denies moving, using Jagdeo wants apolitical approach to oil sector US$18M signing bonus …says monies earmarked for Consolidated Fund

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n light of reports that the US$18 million signing bonus Guyana collected from US oil giant ExxonMobil that was stashed in a private account at the Bank of Guyana (BoG) was removed, several senior Government Ministers have dismissed the claim.

Earlier this week, local economist Ramon Gaskin said in a letter to the media that the Bank of Guyana’s financial statement was recently issued and there was no trace of the signing bonus, which became a matter of controversy last year after it was revealed that not only did Government fail to disclose that it had received the money since 2016 but also deposited it into a private account at Central Bank instead of the Consolidated Fund. Government had defended its actions saying that the money was placed at the BoG since Government intends to use it to pay the legal team that would represent Guyana’s interest at the World Court regarding the border controversy with its western neighbour Venezuela.

However Gaskin in a letter on Monday wrote that, “The Bank of Guyana has published the list of 128 Government Account Balances at the end of January 2018 in excess of 36 billion Guyana dollars… the US$18M ‘Signing Bonus’ received by Guyana and allegedly placed in the account

Economist Ramon Gaskin

is not listed”.

“I conclude subject to correction by the Minister of Finance that the monies, if indeed placed there, have been removed or withdrawn or spent without the authorisation of the Parliament as required by Article 217 of the Constitution of Guyana,” Gaskin said in the letter.

He, therefore, called on “the Minister of Finance to immediately disclose precisely where exactly the money is, how much has been spent from it, and for what purpose, and what is the present balance in the account if, at all, there is any.”

But, when contacted on Thursday, an aide to Finance Minister Winston Jordan told Guyana Times that the monies have not been moved, thus could not have been spent.

“It is still there,” the aide assured.

Meanwhile, Minister of State Joseph Harmon too had denied that the monies were used earlier on Thursday at the post-Cabinet press briefing.

“The signing bonus is monies that belong to Guyana but that bonus, wherever it is, will be placed into the Consolidated Fund and it is from that Fund that any team whatsoever will be paid,” he stated.

Although the legal team has already begun work and has completed Guyana’s submissions, which were filed with the World Court on Thursday by Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge, Harmon told reporters that Government intends to follow prudent fiscal management regarding the use of the US$18 million.

“Whether (the legal team) work before or they work after, it is from the Consolidated Fund, these monies will come from (to pay them. But before that)… we will of course have to make applications to the National Assembly for its approval for these funds… It is just prudent fiscal management,” he stated.

Moreover, Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman when probed on the whereabouts of the signing bonus on Wednesday had de-

clined to pronounce on the matter, but told media operatives that there is nothing sinister afoot if the monies were to be moved.

“The Minister of Finance has been speaking to Cabinet about this over a year and how it is going to be disbursed.

Once we (Guyana) qualified for our appearance at the World Court which was the 30th of January I believe, then that triggered some release of the funds. There is nothing untoward or sinister about it,” he said referring to the border controversy.

However, in a subsequent statement on Thursday, the Natural Resources Ministry confirmed that steps have been taken to have to the money moved to the Consolidated Fund. “…The Minister of Finance, Honourable Winston Jordan (has asked) Cabinet by way of a Memorandum, to release the ExxonMobil signing bonus into the Consolidated Fund to make payments to the legal team representing Guyana,” the missive from the Natural Resources Ministry details.

Nevertheless, Minister of State Joseph Harmon reiterated his Administration’s commitment of transparency, saying that the Finance Minister will follow the necessary laws whenever it is ready to move and use the US$18 million signing bonus.

A response to the Police Commissioner

Dear Editor, I have just had the benefit of reading the press reports of the acting Commissioner of Police on the location of Mr. Lyte at the time of the events which led to the deaths of three men on the 15th March 2018.

It is unfortunate that the acting Police Commissioner -who indicated support for the officers of the Guyana Police Force involved in the incident, and voiced his opinion on the events which occurred on March 15th, 2018 -- would choose to publicly challenge a citizen who was brave enough to come forward and provide a statement, especially since he has not had the benefit of interviewing that citizen.

Needless to say, the absence of confidence which several eyewitnesses expressed to me and other independent investigators about the ability of the Guyana Police Force to protect their safety when their own officers are the subject of the allegation of murder, has been confirmed by the statements of the Commissioner.

I confirm that on Monday afternoon Mr. Lyte met with Mr. Paul Williams, Crime Chief, in the Office of the Crime Chief at Eve Leary.

The sole purpose of going to the Crime Chief’s Office was for Mr. Lyte to give a statement. The senior officer whom Mr. Williams contacted was not available at the time,

and we agreed that we would return on Tuesday at lunchtime.

In the intervening period, Mr. Lyte contacted me and expressed the collective fear of his entire family regarding his safety and protection.

In an effort to persuade him that his fears were exaggerated, I attended his home, where I spoke with his grandmother and sister, both of whom were adamant that he would not be attending any Police station, as they were afraid for his safety and that of their family.

I confirm that I attended the Softball Association of Guyana’s ground on Carifesta Avenue on Wednesday morning, where I spoke with a person who described himself as a supervisor, who confirmed the presence of Mr. Lyte at the location on March 15th 2018, but said he was not on the roof at the time of the shooting.

I subsequently learnt from another source that the contractor was interviewed by the Police prior to my arrival, and was in fear of losing his contract with the Government to repair the building.

Earlier this morning, we delivered a letter to the Commissioner of Police, expressing the exact fear of Mr. Lyte. A copy of the letter is attached for your benefit.

Today I have personally interviewed two additional eyewitnesses who were at

much closer proximity to the shooting, and whose line of sight was considerably more proximate than that of Mr. Lyte. Copies of their statements, with redactions to protect their identities, are attached.

I also spoke to both the Minister of Public Security and the Crime Chief about the fears of the witnesses regarding their safety. This was prior to the Commissioner’s statements, issued later this afternoon.

In light of the considerable fear and apprehension felt by eyewitnesses, who have provided me with statements of the events of March 15th 2018, the family of Mr. Cordis is of the opinion that it is beyond the capacity of the Guyana Police Force to conduct a fair and impartial investigation into the death of Dexroy Cordis.

These statements have disclosed a frightening chronology of events, which have cast not only grave doubts on the version of events provided by the Commissioner of Police, but include a recount of one of the Police officers turning his guns on a group of persons who were playing football at the Guyana National Service ground when they were observed looking on at the events. A copy of these statements with the sensitive details is also attached.

Both of these witnesses have expressed little con-

fidence in the ability of the Guyana Police Force to protect them, and in light of the public statements and treatment of Mr. Lyte by the Commissioner of Police, who commented with the benefit of an interview with him, the fears of the two witnesses along with that of Mr. Lyte are now fully justified.

I personally telephoned both the Minister of Public Security and the Crime Chief today to express these fears.

The family of Mr. Cordis is now of the firm belief that the Guyana Police Force cannot be trusted to conduct a fair investigation into the deaths of these young men, and consequently wishes to call for a full, independent investigation into the events of the 15th March 2018.

Also, I am not sure whether the good commissioner was a member of the Guyana Police Force when I took Mr. George Bacchus, a whistle blower on the phantom squad, to the Guyana Police Force, after having taken him to the United States Embassy.

My recollection is that despite the sterling efforts of the Guyana Police Force to protect Mr. Bacchus, he also died of unnatural causes.

The more things change…

Yours sincerely, CA Nigel Hughes Partner

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overnment should approach the oil and gas sector in Guyana in a manner that is completely devoid of partisan politics, so that sound policies and plans could be put in place for future generations to benefit from this industry and resource.

This is the view firmly expressed by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, who said Government needs to approach this issue in a manner that ensures active stakeholder participation and input.

While the Opposition has stated its willingness to participate in those discussions, Jagdeo said that does not mean the Opposition is ‘begging for a place at the table’.

“We are not (begging for a place at the table), but there are some best practices in this area, particularly in the oil and gas sector; and the several models we have looked at showed that the ones that yield the best results in managing oil and gas resources for the good of the country are the models that emphasize apolitical approach,” he explained.

Jagdeo declared that not only should political parties be included in discussions on the future of the oil and gas industry, but members of civil society and interest groups should equally be involved.

The former President said having local groups and institutions involved in the decision-making process for this sector would be good for Guyana.

He said, “It would allow people -- the whole of the country -- to buy into this model. And it would not require us to change anything if or when the Government changes.”

The Opposition has already expressed its willingness to participate in discussions regarding the planning of a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) and the setting up of a body such as a Petroleum Commission, which would help to guide sound management of the impending oil and gas sector in Guyana.

Maintaining that institu-

tions set up to manage the oil and gas sector must be free of politics, Jagdeo said he knows of examples where countries rich in oil resources and exporting millions of barrels of oil earn miniscule finances because they have treated the sector in a political fashion.

“If it is treated in an apolitical manner, then our country will make long-term progress. We will be able to really translate the barrels (exported) and revenue earned to real development for our people. But it has to be treated in that manner if we are to see some progress,” he maintained.

The Opposition feels the Government is dragging its feet on the issue, and needs to start making moves to prepare now for first oil in 2020.

Jagdeo said the issue is not about rushing the process, but about taking all the necessary steps to prepare for an industry that could bring enormous benefits to Guyana.

Government, through acting Prime Minister Carl Greenidge, recently admitted that the recent high-level caucus for Cabinet Ministers to engage global thinkers and experts on natural resource management as part of the agenda to prepare for petroleum production in 2020 was in fact mundane, or low-key.

Greenidge said the caucus was not aimed at learning something new, but at exchanging experiences with those who have been teaching or working on petroleum issues across the globe.

The event was seen

by Opposition parties as a political stunt put on

by Government to show Guyanese that something is seriously being done.

Government is yet to produce a model for the Sovereign Wealth Fund and one for the setting up of a Petroleum Commission.

While plans are moving apace for a National Oil Spill Contingency Plan, other important aspects that will help to guide the sector in future years are either in draft stages or are nowhere close to being completed.

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friDAY, march 30, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

$550M Zeelugt drug bust

Witness testifies to counting, marking cocaine stashed in lumber

On trial: Sherwayne DeAbreu, Stephen Vieira, Nazim Gafoor and Tazim Gafoor

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nother witness on Wednesday took the stand as the $550 million cocaine-in-lumber trial of race car driver Nazim Gafoor; his father, Tazim Gafoor; biker Stephen Vieira and Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) agent Sherwayne DeAbreu continued.

Rickford Sanko testified before Magistrate Rochelle

Liverpool at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court to taking, counting, marking and packaging the cocaine, which was stashed in the lumber.

The drug, according to the witness, was placed in Ziploc bags and envelopes marked RS 16CE along with various numbers.

Following this, the packages were separated and

wrapped in paper tape.

The first witness to take the stand was Hakeem Mohammed, a drug trafficker who agreed to testify against his alleged co-conspirators in exchange for leniency from the courts. His testimony lasted for some four hours as he responded to a battery of questions

by Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) Prosecutor

3 injured in Providence accident

Konyo Sandiford.

Last May, ranks of the Unit swooped down on a lumber yard at Lot 227 Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), where they conducted a search on a truck that was laden with several pallets of 1×6 dressed lumber that was being prepared for export to the United States.

A total of 84.986 kilograms of cocaine was discovered stashed in the lumber.

An investigation carried out led to the arrest of the Gafoors, Vieira, DeAbreu and Mohammed. In May 2017, the Gafoors and Vieira appeared before Magistrate

Liverpool and pleaded not guilty to the charge read to them.

That charge alleged that between March 1, 2017 and May 12, 2017, they aided Hakeem Mohammed in trafficking 84.986 kilograms of cocaine at Narine Lall’s Sawmill at Lookout, Parika, EBE. They were all remanded to prison.

However, acting Chief Justice Roxane George granted bail to the younger Gafoor and Vieira when their Attorneys, Latchmie Rahamat and Stanley Moore made a bail petition in the High Court. The special rea-

son presented for bail to be granted was the fact no evidence was ever presented to the court that proved that the defendants were in possession of any drugs.

Documents previously presented to the court also indicated that the younger Gafoor suffered from epilepsy. It was also put forward to the acting Chief Justice that the trial would take a long time, since the prosecution has secured 31 statements and the two men were not flight risks.

The older Gafoor, along with DeAbreu, was also later granted bail.

29-year-old gets 65 years for raping girls aged 14 and 8

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est Coast Berbice labourer Krishna Tulapersaud was on Wednesday sentenced to a total of 65 years’ imprisonment by Justice Sandil Kissoon in the Berbice Assizes.

The 29-year-old convict has been convicted of raping two girls, respectively aged

14 and 8 years old, who, during the trial, were revealed to be family members of the rapist. Tulapersaud was indicted on two counts of sexual activity with a child family member, for both of which the jury found him guilty. Justice Kissoon imposed a 14-year jail term for the first count of rape,

and a 51-year jail term for the second count; and ordered that the sentences run consecutively. Evidence presented during the trial indicated that Tulapersaud had sex with the teenager on several occasions. Krishna Tulapersaud was represented by Attorney-at-law Charandass Persaud.

Wife, friend get death penalty for killing husband

Convicted wife of the deceased, Hemwattie Abdulla

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Three persons were rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre late on Thursday evening after the vehicles they were travelling in ended up in a head-on collision. The Guyana Times understands that the accident occurred around 22:00h in the vicinity of the Providence Stadium when a route 42 minibus, BRR 7856, collided with Toyota Allion PMM 1446. The injured passengers were picked up after an ambulance was summoned, and they were rushed to receive medical attention. Police are continuing their investigations into this mishap

he wife and her friend who killed the woman’s husband were on Thursday handed the death penalty by Justice Sandil Kissoon in the Berbice Assizes.

Moments after the sentence was passed, the wife fainted and had to be resuscitated while her friend seemed helpless on hearing her destiny.

On March 13, 2018, the two were found guilty and the court postponed sentencing until Thursday, when a probation report on the two was to be presented to the court. The women, Hemwattie Abdulla, also known as “Annie” and her friend, Seerojini Permaul, known as “Usha”, murdered Abdool Shakeel Majid in 2012.

They were given the death sentence for unlawfully killing Majid, a US citizen, whose battered body was discovered on the Number 63 beach, Corentyne on April 26, 2012.

Following the presentation of the probations re-

ports, Justice Kissoon said despite the circumstances which they experienced in life which could be considered unfortunate, the court cannot turn a blind eye to the circumstances which led to the death of the US-based taxi driver.

Speaking of the crime, Justice Kissoon told the two women that the crime was a planned and calculated event which lasted several months and evolved cross-border communication. The wife, he said, did not want to murder her husband in the US and so she contacted her former neighbour who she knew for over two decades.

He also noted that Permaul accepted US$5000.

“The victim might have been alive today but for a few pieces of silver,” the Judge said.

Special Prosecutor Ganesh Hira represented the State, while Attorneys Mursalin Bacchus and Arud Gossai represented Abdulla and Attorney Nigel Hughes represented Permaul during the trial which lasted more than one month.

The prosecution’s case was that Abdulla arranged the murder of her husband for the money which he had received from an accident in the US and got Permaul to assist her in executing the plot.

However, Justice Kissoon in his ruling said although that evidence was led in the Magistrate’s Court during the Preliminary Inquiry, Attorney Bacchus successfully led evidence to forbid that bit of evidence from be-

Seerojini Permaul helped her friend plan the murder

ing told to the jury and as such, it is only a speculation.

Majid and his wife Abdulla had arrived in Guyana back in April 2012, with the intention of spending a two-week vacation.

However, five days after coming to Guyana, Majid's battered body with the scalp missing was found on the beach.

By then, Abdulla had returned to the United States of America, where she is a resident and had informed relatives of the deceased that her husband was enjoying himself in Suriname and that he had urged her to return home as her daughter was ill.

It was a relative of the dead man who found his suitcase and other personal belongings including his passport at a house and the Police began a probe.

Meanwhile, the selfmade widow fainted as she was waiting to be transported from court to the prison until the execution of the sentence.

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friDAY, march 30, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Border controversy

Guyana files case with ICJ against Venezuela’s claims S

ome two months after the United Nations Secretary General handed over the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for final settlement, formal proceedings were filed on Thursday asking the World Court to confirm the legal validity and binding effect of the 1899 Arbitral Award.

Guyana’s application was submitted by Second Vice President and Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge to ICJ Registrar Philippe Couvreur, in The Hague, Netherlands, a statement from the Foreign Affairs Ministry said.

This application follows a decision by UN Secretary General António Guterres earlier this year in choosing the ICJ as the next means of resolving the controversy that arose as a result of the Venezuelan contention that the Arbitral Award of 1899 about the frontier between British Guiana and Venezuela was null and void.

According to Guyana’s application to the World Court, for more than 60 years Venezuela had consistently recognised and respected the validity of the binding force of the 1899 Award and the 1905

Map agreed by both sides in furtherance of the Award.

“Venezuela had only changed its position formally in 1962 as the United Kingdom was making final preparations for the independence of British Guiana and had threatened not to recognise the new State, or its boundaries, unless the United Kingdom agreed to set aside the 1899 Award and cede to Venezuela all of the territory west of the Essequibo River, amounting to some two-thirds of Guyana’s territory,” Guyana submitted in its application to the World Court.

The court document further noted that while Venezuela has never produced any evidence to justify its belated repudiation of the 1899 Award, the neighbouring country has used it as an excuse to occupy territory awarded to Guyana in 1899, to inhibit Guyana’s economic development, and to violate Guyana’s sovereignty and sovereign rights.

In filing the application, Minister Greenidge, who will serve as Guyana’s agent in the proceedings before the ICJ, said “…Guyana has respected the Secretary General’s decision and placed its faith in the International Court of Justice to resolve the controversy in

Vice President and Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge with ICJ Registrar Philippe Couvreur at the World Court in The Hague, Netherlands on Thursday

accordance with its Statue and jurisprudence, based on the fundamental principles of international law, including the sanctity of treaties, the maintenance of settled boundaries and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States.”

The UN Secretary General’s authority to choose the ICJ as the means for resolving the controversy is rooted in the Geneva Agreement of 1966, negotiated just before Guyana attained independence. On January 30, 2018, Secretary General Guterres concluded that the Good Offices Process, which the parties had engaged in for almost 30 years, had failed to achieve

GAM to advocate for duty-free concession on municipal vehicles

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resident of the Guyana Association of Municipalities (GAM), Carwyn Holland has noted that he will be vocal and will be forwarding proposals to Government for municipalities to be granted duty-free concessions on municipal vehicles. Holland, whose mayorship with the Linden Mayor and Town Council (LM&TC) came to an end on Wednesday, has also noted difficulty during his tenure in acquiring duty-free concession to clear two compactor trucks which the municipality had purchased since last year. He noted that the municipality instead decided to pay duty on the trucks which it is still awaiting as they could not be cleared in a timely manner. He said he would have

written and consulted with the relevant Ministries to be granted duty-free, however it was not done in the correct order. He noted that he was also advised in writing of the correct procedure to follow and further advised that there was nothing in the Act to grant municipalities duty-free concessions. He said while the duty-free concession was not denied, and the correct procedure facilitated since the Council was so badly in need of the trucks, it decided to pay the duty on the compactor trucks. “From GAM level, I’m calling for municipalities to be given duty-free...I believe all the Mayors will share the same view that we need a turnaround for the municipal organs. We need to be afforded free concessions... Check

the other occupations, check and see who else getting duty-free, several persons...

Why then, the municipal organs, much less the municipalities can’t get a duty-free.

Something is wrong. There’s no equity,” he noted.

Municipalities serve communities, so it is only fitting that they be afforded duty-free concessions, pointing out that even the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) organs are granted duty-free. The GAM President said at the level of the Association, municipal leaders would have already voted for Councillors, Mayors and Deputy Mayors to receive duty-free, however, he noted that they did not advocate specifically for duty-free on municipal machines and vehicles.

a solution to the controversy and chose the ICJ as the next means of settlement, for which Guyana has long been advocating.

Government has confirmed that the legal team that was established to defend Guyana’s territory against its western neighbour is the same as the panel that fought and won the judicial proceedings against Suriname over a decade ago.

That team, which was headed by Paul Reichler, a

partner in the Washington office of law firm Foley Hoag LLP, was successful. The matter was settled by the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea in 2007.

Meanwhile, Government’s top legal adviser in this current case, Sir Shridath Ramphal, has assured that the country’s sovereignty is in good hands.

The former Commonwealth Secretary General said last week that Guyana could not expect better and it was for the country and its Government to establish to the world what has always been the case, which is sticking by the agreement that was signed.

On that note, he said the case was in good hands and that the same team that won judicial proceedings against Suriname has been retained to fight this case. “We got to work again to finish the job,” he had stated.

United States oil giant ExxonMobil had announced back in May 2015 that it had found oil offshore Guyana.

Venezuela has staunchly been against oil exploration

in Guyana’s Stabroek Block, where multiple oil deposits were found by ExxonMobil, and has since renewed claims to the Essequibo region.

In the meantime, ExxonMobil is continuing its successful exploration, making its seventh discovery of “high quality” commercial oil offshore Guyana last month.

According to the company, this will help bring Guyana’s production to more than 500,000 barrels per day when oil production commences in two years’ time.

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman had told a gathering of members from the local legal fraternity earlier this month that Government’s fast tracking of oil production was “inextricably linked” with the 55-yearold border controversy with neighbouring Venezuela.

He said that Guyana has been strategically pushing for first oil in 2020 in light of the claims by its western neighbour over waters offshore Guyana that are being explored by the US oil giant.

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friDAY, march 30, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Duo remanded on cannabis possession charges T wo men were on Wednesday remanded to prison after they appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Leron Daly to answer to possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking charges.

Udok Anthony Nedd, 35, of Lot 121 Campbellville Housing Scheme, Georgetown and Keron Jordan, 24, of Lot 3043 North Ruimveldt Housing Scheme, Georgetown pleaded not guilty after the charges were read to them.

It is alleged that on March 27, 2018 at Campbellville Housing Scheme, Georgetown, Nedd, a caterer, had 444

grams of cannabis sativa (marijuana) in his possession for trafficking.

According to facts presented in court, on the day in question, acting on information, Police ranks from the Narcotics Branch, Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown went to Lot 121 Campbellville, Georgetown, where they met Nedd.

After requesting permission from Nedd to search the premises, Police ranks proceeded to the kitchen area where they found two transparent plastic parcels each containing a quantity of

leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be marijuana.

The alleged drug trafficker was then arrested and taken to CID headquarters where the suspected narcotics were weighed in his presence.

The charge against Jordan, a taxi driver, stated that on the same day at North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, he had 1378 grams of cannabis sativa in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Jordan, the driver of motor car HC 6001, was intercepted by Police ranks on Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown in the vicinity of the Garage Restaurant, where a search

was conducted on him.

Police ranks searched the vehicle and found a multi-coloured haversack in the back seat which contained a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis. Under caution, Jordan told the Police that a man had given him the haversack to take to “Black Boy”. Jordan, too, was arrested and taken to CID Headquarters.

As it related to Nedd, Magistrate Daly refused to grant him bail based on the facts presented by Police Prosecutor Sanj Singh.

Both men are expected to return to court next month.

Cop charged with rape of 15-year-old

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member of the Guyana Police Force was on Thursday released on $250,000 bail after he appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Senior

Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus for the rape of a 15-year-old girl.

Mark Otto, 23, is accused of engaging in sexual penetration of a child under the age of 16 during the month

of May 2017.

The Police Constable was not required to plead to the indictable charge after it was read to him.

The matter was reported by the young woman’s

mother after she found out that the two were involved in a relationship. The matter was adjourned to April 4, 2018 when Otto is scheduled to make his next court appearance.

Education Ministry signs US$83,000 agreement to boost TVET

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tudents who are inclined to the technical and vocational aspect of education will now have a chance to improve their skills following an agreement that was signed between the Education Ministry and the Organisation of American States (OAS) on Thursday.

This signing ceremony was attended by a representative from the OAS, Jean Ricot Dormeus; Education Minister Nicolette Henry; Assistant Chief Education Officer Patrick Chenadu; Permanent Secretary of the Education Ministry, Vibert Welch; and the Director of the Department of International Cooperation and Foreign Affairs, Vanessa Dickenson.

Ricot Dormeus, in remarks, stated that, along with this agreement, Guyana has also benefited from a scholarship programme established by the OAS to boost technical and vocational training in secondary and post-secondary institutions.

Education Minister Nicolette Henry and OAS Representative Jean Ricot Dormeus at signing ceremony of the agreement

“It comes under the umbrella of quality, inclusive, equitable education promoted by the Development Corporation Fund managed by the OAS,” Dormeus said.

Implementation of this programme will assist in production of skilled individuals -a necessity in today’s society --and further enhance the sustainable development factor.

“Our people need good jobs and good technical [and] vocational education. They will be able to secure good jobs, and

even set up a business of their own, in the future, so that the (country improves and the economy grows),” Dormeus added.

While expressing her gratitude, Minister Henry also explained that this would advance the development of education in Guyana.

“I know that this will be very impactful in the development of our youth population,” she said.

She revealed her cognisance that sometimes the main focus is mainstream academics, and

many students do not receive a platform to improve their skills in the technical and vocational areas, which are off the radar.

For that reason, she said, this agreement and the injection of the substantial sum will solve this issue. She highlighted, “As you know, we are a country that is looking for development in terms of oil, which is new and different; and we have to prepare our people so that they can be able to manage, and manage well, the resources; and so this will feed in to that broader picture.” The document signing was spearheaded by Assistant Chief Education Officer Patrick Chenadu, who spearheads the technical and vocational education sector. Over the years, the OAS has been a critical partner in the education delivery process, and has now embarked on this new initiative to further assist in the development of the education sector in Guyana.

The monies received from the fund will be used for training and in the occupational health and safety bracket.

Govt confident US’ catfish ban will be reversed

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overnment has been on the receiving end of heavy criticism for proverbially dropping the ball in making Guyana compliant with new regulations in the United States regarding importation of the catfish species; but State Minister Joseph Harmon assured on Thursday that Government is working assiduously to have the ban reversed.

Speaking at this week’s post-Cabinet press briefing, Harmon expressed confidence that the importation ban on Guyana will be lifted.

“Guyana is working with the US authorities to resolve the matter…and one of the reasons why I say that is (because) the ban is seeking to deal with farm-reared catfish, but because we are caught in this category….our catfish… is not farm-reared (it is wild caught)… And this is why

we feel confident that it is going to be affected in a positive way for us,” the State Minister posited. While pointing out that Guyana was not the only country affected by the ban imposed by the US, the State Minister outlined that other international markets have not been impacted.

“The ban does not affect the export of catfish from Guyana to other markets. And as you know, this is, I believe, one of the staple diets of Guyanese who live in the diaspora; so the Guyanese living in Canada, in the United Kingdom and other parts of the world, they are not affected by this(ban),” Harmon noted.

The Government’s spokesperson went on to point out that this action by the US, which in fact was a revision of the rules for the import of fish into that country, was just a protective measure.

“The Honourable Minister

(of Agriculture, Noel Holder, told Cabinet) that the difference in the ways in which catfish are sourced – that is, farm raised against wild caught – and processed in the USA and Guyana, and the required documentation were the main reasons for the restriction.

“Cabinet was advised that Ministry of Agriculture was, however, actively engaged with the US authorities to have the matter resolved in the shortest possible time,” he told reporters at Thursday’s briefing. In addition, Harmon explained that the ban comes against the fact that there were some changes in the way the US administration dealt with this particular sector, while, at the same time, local authorities here were also undergoing changes.

“The Food and Drug Administration that had responsibility for it, they created

a new department, which then took on this responsibility and enforce these restrictions… So there were changes occurring in the US Administration itself; so you were dealing with one department, and by the time you got to some comfort level with that, there was another department. And here in Guyana itself, the officials that were dealing with it, some of them have actually changed over the last two or three years,” the State Minister said.

The Coalition Government has come under heavy criticism for the ban from Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, the Private Sector Commission (PSC), importers and exporters, as well as fishermen, with all of them calling for Government to expedite the process to make Guyana compliant with the US regulations for the importation of the catfish species.

Still mamaguying…

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…on oil rotman’s been relieved of his oil responsibilities from his Natural Resource portfolio. Or so we’ve been told. It’s probably more like he’s been sequestered until the heat from his giveaway on the “negotiations” he conducted with Exxon. But it seems he just can’t keep his mouth shut – which defeats the whole point about hiding him away from inquiring minds.

He just issued a statement about royalties and profit oil in the sharing of revenues in Production Sharing Agreements (PSAs) that the previous Administration had signed. But once again, he’s “playing stupid’ (which shouldn’t be too difficult for him!) and not mentioning the critical difference between his signing and the previous Administration’s: OIL HADN’T BEEN DISCOVERED IN THE LATTER INSTANCES!!!

This makes all the difference in the world, doesn’t it?

Before the oil strike, it was just a hope and a prayer by the Government of Guyana. In such a scenario – for a country like Guyana where explorations for decades had come up dry – it’s not surprising that the Government had to figuratively drop its pants!! But when Trotman sidled up to the table OIL HAD BEEN STRUCK!!

Plus if Trotman had done even his basic homework – as your Eyewitness has said before – he would’ve known Exxon had just written off their Russian reserves because of the newly-imposed US sanctions. They also had to write off their Canadian Oil Sands reserves because of environmental concerns. Now, reserves are literally the life-blood of oil companies: if these drop beyond a certain point, it signals production (and profits!!) also heading south! And in the meantime, the stocks of publicly-traded companies also plummet. While Exxon had jumped into shale oil in the meantime, they were salivating for a “world-class” oil find that would save their skins.

That’s what Trotman should’ve used as his leverage to get a better deal for us. There was no way Exxon would’ve walked away from such a find that was a hopskip-and jump away from their Louisiana and Galveston refineries. But that wasn’t all. Not long after the strike was announced – almost simultaneously with the 2015 elections’ results (Coincidence?? Ha!!) – Chatham House arranged for Trotman, Jordan and their teams to fly over to Uganda, to learn how that country was dealing with oil after it was struck four years before.

Chatham House picked Uganda because rather than rushing ahead like Ghana, the Ugandans were bargaining hard to get the most bang for their oil. They ended up with a sliding royalty scale of up to 12.5 per cent and profit sharing of 65 per cent. Not to mention 30 per cent income taxes of the oil company’s profits!

Now why after THAT, would Trotman drop his pants for Larwah?? …on Chronic’s bleeding In the midst of the fracas that’s broken out over the firing of Hinds and Lewis from the Chronic, the Board of the latter announced the paper was now making a profit after years of bleeding red ink!! These people are so transparent: who doesn’t know this is just a diversion??

The Board, first of all, is now composed of rump elements that have no backbone to have gone along with the nonsense that the EiC wasn’t pressured to be the hatchet man???

Now for their claim of profitability. In the past, the Chronic – whose circulation has now dropped to a literal handful – used to be kept alive by direct transfusions of cash from the Consolidated Fund. Now it’s done by giving them scads of ads EVERY DAY – which they don’t deserve since it’s just like whispering in the middle of a forest!! No one gets the message!!

But this latest feint by the AFC (the remaining Board members are from that party) to remain relevant won’t work.

All Guyana can smell the stench of “Dead meat”!! …on Police reform The seawall shootings just raises the issue of what happened to the long promised “Police reform” by this PNC-led coalition?

Whatever happened to the British Security Reform plan by Russel Combe??

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

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friDAY, march 30, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Illegal excavation taking place in Region 10 N

atural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman has given the assurance that the subject Ministry will look into issues of illegal mining, including allegations of unauthorised extraction of sand, loam, and stone from areas in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Over the years, there have been numerous complaints from residents and officials in the Region against companies and individuals participating in the illegal act. The Moblissa area has been one of concern for years, though it falls under the jurisdiction of Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), it is managed by the Region 10 administration. Only recently, officials, including Regional Chairman Renis Morian and Minister within the Natural Resources Ministry, Simona Broomes, were summoned to the area over complaints. Linden has also been subjected to similar complaints over the years, particularly at Amelia's Ward, Mackenzie where several illegal sand pits reportedly exist.

The Natural Resources Minister also noted that

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman

there has been decades of disarray in the Region which the Ministry would be looking into. He said while he did not expect the issues to be solved overnight, they were of great concern, as he pointed out that the Natural Resources Ministry has a responsibility to look into these issues.

Addressing the sand pit issue specifically, Trotman warned that if sand was being removed, then this should be done in a lawful manner, that is from an authorised sand pit.

"I think we have, over the years, neglected the supervision of sand, loam, stone and so it is something we're go-

ing to pay keen attention to.

I've asked Minister Broomes to oversee that...So, we are going to be working with the Region and if needs be, the municipality as well to ensure there's order brought," the Minister explained.

He added that he wanted to hear more from the Region as it related to concerns and would like to work more with the people to enhance their livelihood. In this regard, he said he wished to work closely with the relevant parties in developing the Centennial Park at Linden.

2 companies apply to conduct mining in Linden

The Minister added that two companies have so far expressed interest and have made applications to conduct mining in Linden, Region 10. He said while no formal work has commenced, there would be much benefit for the Region.

"They haven't started formal work, but I believe some proprietary works are going to start. So, there's much happening and much benefits are going to come to the Region as well," Trotman said.

Workers union launched for seafarers

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he Guyana Seafarer’s and General Workers Union (GS&GWU) was earlier this month issued with a Certificate of Registration of Trade Union, by the Registrar of Trade Unions.

Located at the Guyana Church View Hotel in New Amsterdam, Berbice, the GS&GWU has been certified to represent mainly seafarers and those within the maritime sectors.

During his brief address at the launching of the ceremony, Rion Peters expressed the important role of a trade union, adding that it brings great benefits to the working class.

Peters declared that the Opposition is prepared to give full support to the new union and it members. He also urged persons to join the Union’s membership to ensure they receive the representation that is necessary for them New Amsterdam Mayor, Winifred Heywood welcomed the establishment of the GS&GWU. Heywood supported the efforts of the Union’s executive and reminded about the benefits that come with having such representation.

“Trade unions are necessary to provide good representation to it members.

Members should not only rely on the Union’s executive officers to conduct all the functions however, because members also have a very important role to play since a union in made up of both members and executive officers and working together will determine the effective

function and progress of the Union.”

The GS&GWU saw a large number of persons registering even before the Union was launched. This number has increased significantly since the launch. Fifteen executive members were registered to perform the Union’s business in an effective, productive and honest manner. “We have strict rules about the performance of our officers and penalties that apply when they fail to carry out their functions effectively. Executive officers are mandated to properly serve and provide the relative services to all union members,” Heywood further noted. The Union is made up of prominent and experienced persons within the maritime industry. The Union is set up to provide representation for workers and to also assist in job recruitment of members.

The body will also be providing monetary and other aid where possible.

The Executive team com-

prise of Captain – Oswald Prince, President; Captain – Geet Ale Smit, First Vice President; Engineer – Glynn Roy Campbell, Second Vice President; Navigator – Timothy Seegobin, Third Vice President; Requiting Officer – Simone Fortune, General Secretary; Trade Unionist/ Chief Cook – Micah Williams; Chief Negotiator and Principle General Secretary, Navigator, Dexter Jones.

Principle Treasurer / Principle Asstistant General Secretary Eion Rodney serves as Research Officer/ Assistant Treasurer; Alica Dowridge serves as Office Secretary; Captain Henley John as Field Secretary and Assistant Research Officer; while Captain, Willard Nelson, serves as Principle Assistant Field Secretary.

Captain Lindon Johnson is the Assistant Field Secretary, while Sahadeo Christenpaul, Rooplall Harrilall and Keith Grimmond are committee members.

10 NEWS

friDAY, march 30, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NGSA ends with mixed reactions from pupils of Essequibo

Business owners urged to consider models to tackle high unemployment – State Minister tells GCCI

Samuel Alvin Carter

Ravina Devi Singh

Vicky Aditya Darbarrie

s the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) concluded on Thursday, over 14,000 children will now anxiously await the release of the results which will determine how well or how poorly they performed.

On Wednesday, the pupils English Language and Science Papers were written and while some of them thought that it was simple, some felt it was difficult but nevertheless, answered the questions to the best of their abilities.

On Thursday, the children wrote the Mathematics and Social Studies papers.

Taking into consideration the performance of students in Maths in the 2017 ex-

ams, educators are hopeful with the new initiatives that were put in place to boost the results in that subject area, that the results are overwhelming.

In fact, Education Minister Nicolette Henry while visiting schools on Wednesday, alluded to the fact that a lot has been done to enhance the teaching of various subject areas and she too is expecting good results.

However, Guyana Times spoke with a few pupils of CV Nunes Primary School on the Essequibo Coast who had mixed reactions.

Samuel Alvin Crater related that the Maths Paper Two was difficult but still thinks he will be successful. In this light, he is hoping to be suc-

cessful at the examinations and earn himself a good placement.

Another pupil, Ravina Devi Singh was very much confident on how she handled the exams. “I will get a good school in the region. I got a lot of support from my teachers and parents and I want to thank them for supporting me. The exam was easy for me,” she related.

In addition, Vicky Aditya Darbarrie was also confident that he did well and hopes that he will be awarded a place at Anna Regina Multilateral School.

Nonetheless, he stated that “the exam was a bit tricky but I am sure of a good pass”.

These sentiments were also common in other areas.

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GCCI President Deodat Indar addressing the gathering at Duke Lodge in Kingston, Georgetown on Thursday

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he Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) held its 128th Annual General Meeting at Duke Lodge in Kingston, and Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, used the opportunity to urge business owners to consider the country’s high unemployment rate as they capitalise on growth from the incoming oil sector.

A quarterly Labour Force Survey done during the period July to September 2017 revealed that the unemployment rate for persons aged 15 and above was 12%, with the situation for women being substantially worse than that for men.

The State Minister told the gathering that business owners should employ measures to hire more Guyanese.

“We still have too high an unemployment rate

in Georgetown and many parts of our country... While it might be efficient and it might be appropriate for us to choose the best models, I’m asking you to consider a model that will involve employment of more Guyanese people,” he pointed out.

President of the GCCI, Deodat Indar, while highlighting the parking meter project and the many value added tax-related (VATrelated) initiatives it campaigned against in recent months, noted that even as Guyana is preparing for the oil sector, the country must follow the path to a sustainable economy.

“Our Chamber believes that it has a responsibility to the private sector and citizens of Guyana to help strengthen the fibres of economic development,” Indar declared.

He reiterated calls for Government to develop and finalise the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) legislation, which would safeguard against the “Dutch Disease”.

Speaking on trade facilitation, Indar said that through its memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) of Canada, there will be ‘multi-stakeholder trade facilitation councils’ which are slated to promote bilateral trade, trade missions, and promotion of strategic partnerships.

“It is my fervent hope that this acts as a catalyst to private sector growth, and by extension economic growth, by structuring trade, facilitating technology and skills transfer, as well as allowing access to new markets,” Indar told the gathering.

He said that, in going forward, GCCI must work harder to support the growth of the private sector and Guyana’s national development.

The meeting also saw presentations of audit reports, financial statements, and the appointment of an auditor.

Established since 1889, GCCI has expanded its membership to over 200 members, and has attained a net surplus of $ 5.6 million for 2017 out of $ 72.4 million for total revenue recorded.

NEWS

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S RAIGHT T

BoI Report into David G boat accident handed over to Minister Harmon

Dr Jagan and Dr Kaldor!

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n the continual celebration of the life and work of Cheddi Jagan, I would like to write about a period of time when Dr Nicholas Kaldor was invited to visit the then British Guiana by the Jagan Government. His mission was to assist the Jagan Government in bringing greater fairness to the tax system. I would also like to compare the lessons learned from that time to today.

For the record, Dr Kaldor was born in Hungary in 1908 and died in the UK in 1986 as the Baron of Newham in the City of Cambridge. He was a consummate intellectual and a master economist.

Why British Guiana in 1961?

Dr Jagan recognised that the global companies operating in the then British Guiana, including Bookers, were actively involved in tax avoidance through transfer pricing. His ambition as the elected Head of State was to increase tax revenue and distribute the tax burden more equitably across all classes of the society. He sourced Dr Kaldor to conduct a comprehensive review of the tax system with the goal of conducting tax reforms. Dr Kaldor did not disappoint.

According to Marjorie Turner in her book on Dr Kaldor, he arrived in British Guiana only to find “there had been a flight of capital over the previous 18 months and the civil service has been almost in a state of revolt from having no pay increases during the past eight years of rising prices”. But the truth of the matter was that Dr Kaldor arrived in British Guiana in the middle of a global cold war power play. President Kennedy was determined that Dr Jagan would never be the Head of State in independent Guyana under his watch. Therefore the decision was made by the Kennedy Administration to remove the Jagan Government before British Guiana can secure independence.

I might say the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) at that time was naïve into thinking they could have outmanoeuvred the American like Castro. As history revealed, CIA operatives struggled to penetrate Cuba but were already well embedded all over Guyana, especially in the Trade Union movements. Irrespective of what policies Dr Jagan’s Government had put forward, they were destined to be destabilised. When it took eight weeks for the trade unions of Ghana to work up a strike against their Kaldor budget, it took three days in British Guiana.

So while Dr Kaldor did an excellent job in 19 days to help craft a budget that was progressive in its recommendations by proposing temporary exchange controls (to stem capital flight), an increase in duties on luxury imports and alcoholic beverages (did not affect the poor), detailed changes in the PAYE (placed more money into the pockets of the workers) and new taxes on capital gains and property; it all came to naught. Although the workers were the biggest beneficiaries of Dr Kaldor’s work, they were the most vociferous against the budget measures. It just did not add up. Only afterward by way of the CIA papers we found out that there was wholesale bribery of the union leaders and Burnham who were being paid to stir up trouble in subservience to their CIA paymasters, although their constituents were the biggest beneficiaries of the Kaldor budget.

The budget was such a trendsetter that both the New York Times and Times of London praised the proposed budget. The Times of London was quoted as saying that Jagan’s proposals were “courageous and certainly not far from what British Guiana must have”. But by that time, the British were unable to alter the decisions of the world’s superpower – the United States.

The lesson to be learned!

History has proven that the measures in the Kaldor budget were moderate and reasonable and certainly were not socialist in any shape or form. There were textbook tax reforms that are vital in economic conditions of capital flight and massive tax avoidance by the owners of capital.

History has also proved that Guyana experienced its greatest human development when the PPP worked closely with the Americans. Guyana could never have transformed from a highly indebted low-income country to middle-income status without the support of the Americans. The onus is on Bharrat Jagdeo to strengthen that relationship between the PPP and the Americans.

As leader of the largest political force in Guyana in 2018, he must be seen to be on good terms with the Americans.

That is why I was extremely pleased with his position on the EXXON investment. He called out the incompetent Granger Government for their corrupt actions but he was emphatic in his position that a PPP Government will respect all fully executed contracts with investors. Such stable signals from the PPP are vital if the Americans are to use their vast powers to influence free and fair elections in Guyana in 2020.

Please share your thoughts at sasesin1@yahoo.com.

he Report from the Board of Inquiry, which was established by President David Granger, to probe the circumstances of an accident involving a David G boat was handed over to Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, by Chairperson of the Board, Colonel (retired) Windee Algernon, on Thursday afternoon at the Ministry of the Presidency.

Minister Harmon expressed appreciation to Colonel Algernon for the timely completion of the Report. “I want to thank you and your team for executing it in such an efficient manner, and I want to say that we owe a depth of gratitude to the Board for actually coming up with these recommendations, which I believe will seek to address the operation of all of these boats not just this one that was in-

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon receives the Report of the Board of Inquiry into the accident involving a David G boat from Chairperson, Colonel (retired) Windee Algernon at the Ministry of the Presidency

volved [in] the accident,” he said.

Meanwhile, Colonel (retired) Algernon expressed gratitude to the Minister for the confidence the

Administration reposed in her to investigate the matter.

“You would agree with me that children are a treasured resource and we must strive to protect them. [Therefore],

based on my findings, I have come up [with] some recommendations, which you will find useful in determining what actions or corrective actions you would like to take to ensure that they are implemented and maintained,” she said.

Minister Harmon committed to ensuring that the recommendations contained within the Report were taken into consideration and noted too that those which could be applied to the operation of the “David G” buses would be considered.

The two members of Colonel Algernon’s team, Penelope Scott and Stacey Fraser, also attended the meeting. On March 14, 2018, a David G boat was involved in an accident in the vicinity of River’s View, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) in which four persons were injured.

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friDAY, march 30, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Broadcasters continue serious Over 100 “neglected” GPL workers conclude 2-day protest breaches every day – GNBA

GPL senior management and junior staff protested at the State entity’s Main Street, Georgetown headquarters

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nion representatives of workers attached to the Guyana Power & Light Company (GPL) are demanding an urgent meeting with executive management of the company as they concluded a twoday protest outside the state-owned entity’s Main Street headquarters on Thursday. The impasse has stemmed from what has been described as untruthful disclosures from the Human Resources Department, to the effect that the unions had purportedly agreed to several measures. This contention was stressed by Chairman of the Guyana Public Service Union’s (GPSU’s) GPL branch, Walter George, who told the media that executive management has not favourably responded to the concerns of the senior management staff who joined their junior colleagues in the midday sunshine. Declaring that senior management is the link between the ex-

ecutive and the junior staff, George opined that senior management workers are being neglected. “The reason for us being out here is the neglect: uncaring, bad-faith arrangement; staying neutral and not being concerned,” he noted, speaking of senior management.

Noting that power is a vital resource, George stressed that the customer is paramount in GPL, suggesting that that is why more drastic measures have not been taken at this stage. “When you go home, you want to turn on the switch,” he said.

Guyana Times understands that negotiations first began in November 2017, but after executive management’s “unfavourable responses” the union decided that, going into 2018, it would set an ultimatum for the entity to meet at the bargaining table.

This newspaper was told there was, on December 29, 2017, a meet-

ing wherein workers originally petitioned for 5% increases for all categories. It was explained that after preliminary negotiations, the union reduced this figure to 3 ½ percent.

The Chairman of the GPLGPSU Branch, however, said the HR Director’s Office disclosed statements that were “contrary to the mutually agreed position”. “He wrote ‘negotiation for performance appraisal’, which was not negotiated at the table; he wrote about changing up the salary structure, which was not negotiated,” the press was informed.

Echoing his sentiments, Principal Industrial Relations Officer of GPSU, Patricia Went, threatened that deadlock will be declared if the GPL executive does not concede to the workers’ demands. “We are asking to meet with them, because if there isn’t any solution, we will declare deadlock.

There is a meeting (set for) April 10, but we are demanding an earlier date. (The situation) is unacceptable, and we are asking to meet as early as possible – Tuesday or Wednesday, but not week after next,” Went emphasised. She estimated that more than 80 junior managers and about 16 senior managers are affected by the impasse. Earlier this week, GPL’s executive managers told a Public Utilities Commission (PUC) hearing that in excess of $150 million in revenue has been lost via electricity theft.

(Shemuel Fanfair)

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ithin the first three months of 2018, the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) has announced that there has been a continuous flow of serious breaches to the Broadcasting Act 2011 and its 2017 Amendment on a daily basis. This deduction was made after observations by its Monitoring and Compliance Department.

According to the GNBA, these breaches fall under the categories of the potential to mislead, promote negative behaviours and offend public sensibilities.

Sensational content highlighting, close-up video footages of undignified images, prime-time programmes, violence and crime, offensive languages, nudity and indecent languages fall under some of these breaches.

Additionally, the Authority has also observed inaccuracies in the presentation of political or industrial behaviours, interpretation of current public policy and the use of personal views as if they were facts are also some other concerning factors which have been raised.

Within a one month period, the Monitoring and

Compliance department recorded a total of 27 grave infractions on an average. With this in mind, the GNBA has reiterated to the broadcasters that such violations have significant implications and can lead to severe penalties.

Therefore, the Authority is reminding them to be aware of situations where breaches of the amendment many arise and to avoid these breaches at all cost.

This can be done by screening the music and movie contents before airing. Immediate actions can also be taken during live programmes to correct, caution and disconnect callers who are abusive or who spew misinformation. Lastly, a caller’s identification should be displayed along with the introduction of a delayed broadcasting mechanism so that the information received can be edited before screening.

The GNBA has issued this statement so that it can continue to exercise its core mandate to regulate, supervise and develop the broadcasting sector. Broadcasters are also asked to follow these reminders to avoid breaching the Act and Amendment.

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friDAY, march 30, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CTVET hosts Strategic Thinking retreat

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s both hinterland and coastland leaders call for the establishment of technical skills training centres, a Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET) retreat was on Thursday held at Cara Lodge in Georgetown, with involvement of the Education Ministry (MoE) in an aim to improve the quality and delivery of technical and vocational programmes across Guyana.

The retreat falls on the basis of the CTVET’s mission to provide the Guyanese workforce with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to increase productivity and economic development.

Speaking at the opening of proceedings, Councillor Archibald Clifton said the CTVET will further undertake initiatives to ensure young persons are equipped with skills, not only relevant to Guyana, but CARICOM member states as well.

Some of the major areas discussed during the exercise were staffing complement, increased demand for technical programmes, reg-

A section of CTVET delegation on Thursday

ulations, and even duty free concessions for CTVET monitors.

Another topic that came up for discussion was Education Minister Nicolette Henry acknowledging calls by CTVET for more support from the MoE. She, however, told councillors they must formulate initiatives to form stronger partnerships with stakeholders.

“I therefore trust that this retreat will give you the roadmap and action plans to be able to reach out to the wider community, including internal stakeholders like the Ministry, the private sec-

tor and employers of industries, other training institutions, Government agencies and NGOs (non-governmental organisations) who are involved in providing training skills and workforce development,” the Education Minister noted.

CTVET is guided by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Act of 2004, which gives it oversight of public technical institutions, including Government Technical Institute, Guyana Industrial Training Centre, and the Carnegie School of Home Economics.

Guyana Times, just last

National Library receives books and laptops

A member of the Pele FC Alumni making the presentation to Chief Librarian Emily King

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total of 2500 books and eight laptops were on Thursday presented to the National Library by the Pele FC Alumni.

Present at the ceremony was the Chairman of the National Library, Petamber Persaud; Chief Librarian of the National Library, Emiley King and members of the Pele FC Alumni.

During his remarks, a

representative of the alumni, Dennis Carrington reiterated the importance of education in today’s generation. He noted that the books were presented to the library with the intention of bridging the gap between education and sports to “help the youths of Guyana to advance”.

Another member of the alumni, being a former member of the football club,

highlighted the role sports play on the minds of ‘at risk kids’, noting that the books are a significant factor and should also be incorporated along with sporting activities.

Meanwhile, during her brief address, Chief Librarian Emiley King emphasised on the importance of the institution, noting that many persons are under the impression that technology has diminished the role of a library.

However, she added, “We cannot be replaced by technology, technology has to embrace us”.

The introduction of laptops into the atmosphere of unwinding books will ensure that the texts are utilised along with technology.

The librarian also emphasised the critical role reading plays in the development of children, which she is certain will be of good use to youths.

week, reported on Santa Rosa Toshao Sherwin Abrams calling for the establishment of a technical and vocational institute to equip young persons with life skills. He made these calls in light of the issues surrounding youths engaging in substance abuse in some sections of Santa Rosa.

Abrams highlighted that the main drug used was marijuana.

“We are trying to curb it

and control it. We are currently forming a policing group to support the Police, (who are) trying to suppress substance abuse,” he noted.

“Once they consume it, they feel they’re bigger than their parents; parents have no control. So it is a real issue with families,” he said.

Abrams highlighted that, for the past three years, the CTVET has been advocating for Government to establish a technical centre which can

cater for the educational requirements of school dropouts and recovered substance abusers.

He noted that the CTVET was requesting that the Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Ministry establish a technical institute within the Moruca sub-region.

This institution, according to Abrams, would cater for many trades; not just carpentry, joinery, and plumbing.

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guyanatimesgy.com

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n Saturday evening, eight beauty ambassadors are expected to storm the stage at the Bartica Community Centre Ground, as they compete for the coveted title of Miss Bartica 2018. The delegates, all Barticians, are adding their final touches to their

gowns and talent pieces to impress the judges on pageant night.

The eight delegates have already competed in the costume display, intelligence segment and the top model challenge. Those scores will be added to those on pageant night and will be used

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to determine the next Miss Bartica.

On pageant night, the eight contestants will compete in swimwear, evening gown, talent and the final question. At the end of the night, only one young woman will be bestowed the title of Miss Bartica. The judg-

lans are moving apace to host the 9th edition of the Lake Mainstay Car and Bike show on Saturday evening at the resort. The stage is being set and the vehicles are all in top gear to impress the patrons come Saturday evening.

This year, the car and bike competition will be conducted in several categories including overall, extreme, audio internal, au-

es for the evening will include former Miss Universe, Wendy Fitzwilliam.

Apart from the pageant, the audience will be entertained by the winners of the talent explosion that was held last week. These include Jermaine Joseph, Timothy Holder and Vanessa Beccles.

The show gets underway at 20:00h. Tickets for the pageant cost $3000.

After the crowning of the queen, the road jams get busy. It will definitely be epic. However, the pageant is one of the attractions of the Bartica Regatta.

On Sunday, April 1, the

dio external and artwork. Cars, bikes and SUVs will be competing for best sounds – both external and internal; loudest sounds; best artwork and others.

Over $1 million in cash prizes will be up for grabs as well as trophies.

However, after the presentation of trophies and prizes, the party begins with Pream’s Mega Sounds.

Admission to the event cost $1000 for

power boat races take centre stage followed by the second day of power racing on Easter Monday. Bartica Regatta will culminate with the chutney/soca show on Monday evening featuring former International Chutney Monarch, KI and Barbadian Lil Rick.

adults and $500 for children. The competition gets underway at 18:00h but gates will be opened at 16:00h.

guyanatimesgy.com

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ver the past years, 704 Sport Bar, Club and Sky Lounge has been hosting concept parties and would have featured several artistes ranging from soca to chutney and dancehall. This time around, and in light of the holiday weekend, the entity has decided to spread its wings.

On Saturday evening, the establishment will host a party titled “FAMILY” and will feature Jamaican dancehall artiste, Popcaan and a surprise artiste of Jamaica.

Apart from the live performances by Popcaan and his band, there are several deejays that will add to the excitement.

These include Tallest and Fifty out of 704 Bar; Deejay P-Star and Perry West out of Trinidad and Tobago; Deejay Puffy,

friDAY, march 30, 2018

Garwin and Seen up along with Magnum, Gully Ras and Selector Diamond.

Advance tickets for the event were sold at $2000 each but if you missed that train, tickets are now available at $3000 and can be collected at ALL Churches Chicken locations; Chetsons, Garage, La Rose Boutique, West Vibes at Vreed-en-Hoop and Sherriff Major in Linden.

Gates to the event open at 20:30h, with Popcaan expected to perform at 00:30h.

Crown Vibes will be providing sound and lighting for this epic event. Apart from this event, the entity also has its regular concept parties; one of such is “Stitchy on the Roof” on Sundays and “Small Friday” on Thursday evenings.

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lans for Kids Fest 592 are set and ready. The green light is on and the promoters are adding the final touch of finesse to ensure the success of the event.

The activity hosted by AOne Events will be held on Sunday April 1, at the Promenade Gardens, in Georgetown.

The venue is expected to be transformed into a wonderland of fun and excitement.

The Alice in Wonderland themed event will feature attractions such as candyland, bouncy castles, magic shows, Disney characters, clowns and the signature activity – the Miss Kids Fest Pageant

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fter a day of kite flying in the sun, the night is expected to be much cooler as Magnum Tonic Wine hosts its explosive stage show on Easter Monday night at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

The show will feature Jamaican dancehall artistes, Aidonia and Ding Dong and Trinidadian soca artiste, Bungi Garlin. The artistes are known for their versatility and are expected to put on an epic show. The local acts include Timeka Marshall, Popeye Caution and Jomo “Rubber Waist” Primo.

The event will also feature local disc jockeys such as Fusion and Determine Sound systems. Gates open at 20:00h, with performances starting at 21:00h. Tickets are $2000, $3000 at the gate but with the purchase of three Magnum Tonic Wines at select retailers; you will receive a free ticket to the event.

“Magnum has always been innovative and trendy with its campaigns and activations since its launch. With our close ties to the streets, we looked very closely at the current Caribbean music climate and knew that people of Guyana music would appreciate Magnum Xplosion, and the line-up we are offering,” an elated Kamal Powell, Regional Marketing Manager for the brand explained.

Magnum Xplosion will not only take place in Guyana, but will also make stops in Trinidad & Tobago and other Caribbean countries to be confirmed. Another performer expected to be on these bills is Patrice Roberts, who like Ding Dong, is a regional brand influencer for Magnum Tonic Wine.

Roberts’ (Carnival) “Sweet for Days” was one of the most played songs during Trinidad & Tobago’s two-day Carnival Road March for 2018.

aleem Beharry, more popularly referred to as “Master Saleem” is no stranger to Guyana and would have gathered a strong fan base from his numerous performance in Guyana; a country he refers to as his second home.

The versatile artiste who has had a successful carnival season is all set to take the US and Canada by storm in the coming weeks.

Beharry, who is presently adding the final touches to a few tunes to be release soon, said he is ready to take control.

His 2018 chutney tune “Shameless” has been quite unique, taking over the Trinidadian air ways during the Carnival celebrations. In that song, he collaborated with former Chutney Monarch, Ravi B. The song was written by Beharry and speaks about his struggles of maintaining his romance for his significant other whilst battling his love for a good “Trini lime”.

“Who else but a Trini knows how to party and we are so blessed to live in this cosmopolitan multiethnic and multicultural island where despite our disagreements on a number of issues, we still can come together for a good Trini lime and that’s what Carnival is about. It is about

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and Talent Show which aims to nurture character and build confidence in children. Winners of the various pageant categories will receive attractive prizes.

The organiser, Natalya Thomas, emphasised that Kids Fest appeals to the entire family and encouraged parents to bring out their children to enjoy the magical experience of wonderland.

Gates to the venue open at 11:00h and patrons are encouraged to use the Middle Street entrance.

Tickets cost $600 and are available at Party Castle, Candy Express, Giftland Mall and Gizmos and Gadgets. Be sure not to miss this “kids” extravaganza.

unity, about letting go of frustration and being free,” Master Saleem explained.

On the other hand, the artistes during the carnival season felt that there were too many negativities but he remained positive about everything that was happening. With the upcoming tour, he is optimistic that he will entertain his fans to the max.

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friDAY, march 30, 2018

Darren Lehmann quits as Australia Coach

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arren Lehmann is to quit as head coach of Australia at the end of the current Test series against South Africa.

The 48-year-old will step down after the final Test in Johannesburg, which starts on Friday, in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal.

Lehmann, who was cleared of any wrongdoing by Cricket Australia, had said on Wednesday he would not resign.

Former skipper Steve Smith plus batsmen David Warner and Cameron Bancroft were banned for their part in the scandal.

Lehman made his decision after watching Smith and

Bancroft deliver emotional apologies at news conferences earlier on Thursday.

"After viewing Steve and Cameron's hurting, it's only fair that I make this decision," said Lehmann, who was contracted until the 2019 Ashes.

"I'm ultimately responsible for the culture of the team.

"This will allow Cricket Australia to complete a full review into the team and allow them to implement changes to regain the trust of the Australian public, this is the right thing for Australian cricket.

"It's been a wonderful experience coaching the Australian cricket team. I hope the team rebuilds from

this and the Australian public finds it in their hearts to forgive these young men."

He added: "They've made a grave mistake but they are not bad people."

Lehmann was appointed head coach in 2013, losing his first Ashes series in England 3-0 before regaining the urn with a 5-0 win five months later, also beating England 4-0 this winter.

The team won the 2015 World Cup under his leadership and dealt with the death of batsman Phillip Hughes in November 2014.

Asked what his proudest moment in charge was, he replied: "I would say the way we dealt with Philip Hughes's

passing. We're only playing a game."

Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland said Lehmann had "provided fantastic service" to the team, adding: "his work ethic has been terrific and he genuinely cares for and loves his players."

Sutherland, who also said he would not be resigning from his role, hopes to have Lehmann's replacement in place for Australia's limited-overs tour of England this summer. The first one-day international is at The Oval on 13 June.

During the third Test in Cape Town, television footage caught Bancroft take a piece of sandpaper out of his trouser pocket before rubbing the ball.

Smith said a "leadership group" had known of the plan in advance and Cricket Australia's investiga-

tion found Warner instructed Bancroft in how to carry it out.

Smith and vice-skipper Warner have been banned for a year by Cricket Australia, while Brancroft was given a nine-month ban.

The three had already been sent home from Australia's tour before the final Test.

Australia's prime minister Malcolm Turnbull had said the affair "bitterly disappointed the whole nation".

Smith, 28, and Bancroft, 25, have also been suspended from captaining Australia

for at least the next two years.

Warner, 31, will not be considered for any team leadership positions in the future.

Darren Lehmann became Head Coach in 2013 and won two Ashes series, including the recent 4-0 victory

21 Former GJA Secretary hints at corruption in Judo arena sports

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three-time black belt international coach and former Guyana Judo Association (GJA) secretary William Blackman has stepped forward to give his take on the controversy surrounding the GJA. The association found its self in hot water after allegations were pedaled against them

by Canadian-based Judoka Darren Elcock.

Amongst the list of several malpractices, Blackman placed emphasis on the fact that the association is an unconstitutional body which is not recognized by the international association. “The present association is unconstitutional, it’s illegal, because one they had changed their name to Judo association of Guyana, which was overturned by the international body and that body told Mr.

Raul Archer when he went to a world conference in Brazil in 2012 that they do not recognize Judo Association of Guyana,” he stated.

“I told him when he came back in order to rectify this, you have to do the same process how you changed the name, call a general meeting and change it back. He did not do this,” Blackman further explained.

The former Judoka further disclosed that members of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) are aware of this misconduct but still supports the entity. He stated that he spoke with GOA President K.A. Juman-Yassin on the issue and was told to leave the matter alone.

Another issue that Blackman raised was the lack of clubs in Guyana; to this end he stated, “To form an association you have to have more than one clubs, there are no other clubs but

Faye Joseph Int’l Domino Tournament commences today T he Hairoun Beer-sponsored Annual Faye Joseph International Tournament gets underway today at 1223 Gaulding Place, South Ruimveldt, as teams battle for the grand prize of $500,000 and one year bragging rights.

According to the Organising Committee, a small fee of $2,000 will be charged to enter and registration has already begun.

Teams are expected from Barbados, USA, Canada and Colombia among others who join the fight for individual glory.

The sport which has evolved from being a leisure activity not so long ago to one that attracts numerous teams and hundreds of participants is expected to be the buzz on the sports calendar this weekend as the biggest event in the sport so far for the year gets cracking with over $1million in prize monies and trophies up for grabs along with bragging rights.

The Organising Committee has already indicated that all systems are in place for a riveting tournament which they are confident will be run in a highly disciplined manner. It was further disclosed that teams from regions outside of Georgetown and overseas have been making inquiries about the tournament and coupled with the large influx of overseas-based Guyanese and other visitors, this year’s competition could easily eclipse previous records of entries.

Faye Joseph, President of the Guyana National Domino Federation (GNDF) and the Georgetown Domino Association (GDA) is optimistic that this year’s edition will be a huge success and the sport would once again demonstrate its relevance for unmitigated support.

The winning team will receive $500,000 plus trophy and medals, while second and third place finishers will take away $300,000 and $200,000 respectively along with trophies and medals.

The Most Valuable Player in the final will win $10,000 and a trophy.

The registration fee for teams is $20,000 and each team will be entitled to a free case of Hairoun Beer upon completion of registration.

The competition runs from March 30-April 7 and interested teams or individuals can contact Mark ‘Jumbie’ Wiltshire on 665-5855; Barbara Marshall on 683-8280; Faye Joseph on 685-1009 or Rodwell Phillips on 686-0632 for more information.

William Blackman

the one which Mr. Archer has and you can’t have an association with one club.”

He also highlighted the fact that there has not been an election since 2012, the governing period being two years. Additionally, he stated that the 2012 elections were shady, in that the executive body elected amongst themselves rather than having the members apart of that process.

To back up his claims, Blackman produced a letter that was sent to him by Archer on the way forward

after he returned in 2012.

He also had in his possession the old constitution and the newer version that was put into place along with the name change of the association.

Blackman challenged the association’s reluctance to accept Darren Archer with the fact that Edward DeLima who resides in the USA had requested to represent Guyana in Brazil and was readily given that opportunity. In addition to this, he explained that

Canada-based Guyanese Darren Elcock

there should be no problem with International membership since the young man was a member of the Canadian Judo Association and by extension the international association.

Just a few days ago, Darren Elcock shared with the Guyana Times Sport that after being given the impression that the local Judo association would facilitate his transfer from the Canadian Judo Association, the President and other senior officials began giving him the ‘cold shoulder’. The concerned young man noted that it is a very simple process and even stated that he would be happy to represent his birth place if that opportunity is awarded to him. Elcock who started out as a Karateka at the YMCA dojo, has accolades such as a gold medal from the Winter Games in Alberta 2010 and another gold from the Edmonton International championship in 2011.

Demerara Mutual supports Seaton Jr’s CARIFTA quest

Leon Seaton Jr receives a sponsorship cheque from Demerara Mutual Marketing Manager Clarence Perry

T

he Demerara Mutual Company has injected their support into an up and coming swimming star who is slated to appear at the CARIFTA Games this weekend. Leon Seaton Jr. has constantly displayed dominance in the pool and as such there is no doubt that the 13 year old will excel at the Caribbean level.

At a simple handing over ceremony Demerara Mutual Marketing Manager Clarence Perry noted that the company is proud of Seaton Jr.’s consistent performances and they are happy to sponsor the young man once again. “We wanted to reengage our sponsorship with Leon because we’ve noticed and followed his success and we’ve been keenly watching his development,” Perry explained.

Additionally, Perry noted that the company believes that investing in sport is a good way of fostering wholesome development. Further, he disclosed that the company is looking to continue supporting Seaton Jr. in his quest for excellence.

A grateful Seaton expressed his gratitude to the Insurance Company for assisting him in pursuing his CARIFTA dreams. He noted that whilst he is expected to return to Guyana with a medal or two, his Guyanese colleagues also possess the same ability. “I expect to do a fairly good job, there is a possibility of my other teammates medaling also,” the youth stated.

Seaton Jr., a St Rose’s High student qualified ahead of his Guyanese teammates in the 13-14 category by clocking 25.35s in the 50m freestyle, easing past the qualifying time of 26.02s. What made the performance even more commendable was the fact that it surpassed Andre Fowler’s 18 and over time of 25.64s. The young man who is no stranger to the pool has been competing since the tender age of five.

The young man departed Guyana on Thursday, one day behind the athletics contingent. The swimming leg will last from March 30 to April 3, in Jamaica.

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friDAY, march 30, 2018

New champions beckon in Milo football

Guinness "Greatest of the Streets"…

8 teams get

the axe

E

ight teams immediately found the ‘exit’ as the East Coast Leg of the Guinness Greatest of the Street Futsal Competiton got underway on Wednesday evening at t h e

Teshawn Gordon is a vital member of Buxton Youth Development

O

ver two months of thrilling action from twenty-four teams, there is one piece of the tantalizing puzzle remains regarding who will be crowned champions in the sixth edition come the final on Saturday at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue.

Will it be Buxton Youth Development? Will it be Sir Leon’s Lesson? What is sure is when the final whistle is blown a new team will lift the championship trophy in great delight.

Judging on their form heading into to this stage, it is hard to clearly pick a favourite. Buxton who are

on their first outing in the tournament have arguably played the most technically sound football of the two.

Much of the ‘dream play’ have come from the feet of talismanic Teshawn Gordon and ably supported by captain Shemar Scott and Shemar Singh. The East Coast Demerara unit’s

defence have only been breached thrice to date, an example of their alert both offensively and defensively.

There may be some joy for them knowing that Sir Leon’s defence were finally breached during the semi-final against Lodge Secondary. The Greenheart Street unit have been striking goals at an alarming rate many of which have come from Lennox Younge, Teon Forde and Zion Gray.

Both sides will be hoping to secure the first-place prize of $500,000 which goes towards a school project; second collects $300,000.

Before crust of the night’s action kicks-off from 19:00h the third-place clash will feature Annandale Secondary and Lodge Secondary from 17:00h which will see the winner copping $200,000 and the loser $100,000.

Haslington Tarmac.

Belfield Warriors, Buxton Diamond, Beterverwagting A, Uprising, Paradise A, Melaine B and Mahaica Determinators have progressed to the round robin stage of the fast paced tournament which resumes on Saturday, March 31.

A total 12 matches are scheduled to take place on Saturday with the first encounter being kicked off at 19:00 hrs.

Belfield Warriors, Buxton Diamond and Paradise A all produced 3 – 0 wins over Plaisance A, Mahaica Guinness Bar and Plaisance B, respectively.

Uprising sank Melaine A 2 – 0 while Determinators and Beterverwagting A needled Haslington Hypers and Police B. Beterverwagting B and Victoria ChurchYard battled to a goalless match but

the winner was decided on penalty kicks as the latter prevailed 3 – 2.

Melaine B found a 2 – 0 win via penalty kicks after finishing nil all in their match with Buxton.

Over $700,000 in prize monies and trophies will be up for grabs over three days, while the Plate final carries a first prize of $50,000.

The winning team in the competition will receive $400,000, while second, third and fourth place finishers take home $150,000, $100,000 and $75,000 respectively.

Round Robin fixtures for Saturday, March 31 Belfield Warriors vs.

Victoria Church Yard19:00hrs Buxton Diamond vs.

Upsetters-19:20hrs BV-A vs.

Mahaica Determinators-19:40hrs Paradise-A vs. MelanieB-20:00hrs Belfield Warriors vs.

Buxton Diamond-20:20hrs Victoria Church Yard vs.

Upsetters-20:40hrs Melanie-B vs. Mahaica Determinators-21:00hrs Paradise-A vs. BV-A21:20hrs Victoria Church Yard vs.

Buxton Diamond-21:40hrs Belfield Warriors vs.

Upsetters-22:00hrs Paradise vs. Mahaica Determinators-22:20hrs BV-A vs. Melanie-B22:40hrs

friDAY, march 30, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

Cheddi Jagan Centenary Cup T20

23

Crandon expects team to beat Trinbago Titans

By Clifton Ross

G

uyana All-Stars Coach Esuan Crandon said he expects his team to come good this Saturday when they tackle the Trinbago Titans in the Cheddi Jagan Centenary T20 Cup, played under lights at the Albion Ground, Berbice.

Speaking with the former Guyana all-rounder turned four-time Regional FourDay winning coach during Thursday’s practice session at the Bourda Cricket Ground; Crandon pointed out his players who were happy to be on show this weekend.

“It’s good that the players made themselves available to play the match in honour of the late President Dr Cheddi Jagan. It’s also good that they get to play because every chance they get to play is one to capitalise on and make it count, the more they do well and perform and it’s out there in the media it will help to boost their skills and help advertise what they have been doing,” said Crandon.

The event will see Guyana’s best squaring off against the Trinbago Titans in what should be a highly entertaining encounter between two star-studded teams. Crandon believed while it was just one match, it was still equally important for the players to get some quality match time in against players who they may likely face or partner up with in fu-

ture matches.

Guyana’s line-up features Leon Johnson, Chris Barnwell, Assad Fudadin, Romario Shepherd, Ricardo Adams and Anthony Bramble among other top stars. The Titans on the other had have also beefed up their side with big guns such as; Rayad Emrit, Lendl Simmons, Nicholas Pooran, Kevon Cooper, Amir Jangoo and others.

“I think it’s a good opportunity for all the players… to go out there and play some good, competitive cricket.

Obviously you would want to be a professional when you go out there every time and remain competitive and not take anything for granted or lightly”. Crandon, who has been in many regional battles over his career, further said that despite his confidence in Guyana; he was still weary of the Titans.

“Trinidad will come and play very competitive cricket because they have a good squad, so we will just urge our players to go out there and make us proud and as well the fans will be out because it’s been awhile since we had such a match with big name at the venue”, added the coach.

“They (Shepherd and Rutherford) are good talented young players and they have been rewarded… so we expect them to do well. As I said they’re very talented and positive. I really want to see how they operate in the

Coach Esuan Crandon addressing the Guyana All-Stars team during their practice session at Bourda on Thursday

T20 match…”.

With just a day left until the two sides meet, the Guyana Jaguars head coach was strongly backing his boys to counterattack the Titans and secure the title for their country at home. “The guys would have known some of the players coming in so we’ll have our plans in place for them. A few of those guys are very experienced when it comes to T20 cricket and Trinidad has done well in the shorter version over a number of years”.

“They have had loads of players… so they have a lot of knowledge in this particular format of the game but we will our plans in place and go and play competitive cricket

and win the trophy on home soil”, Crandon ended.

The match of this standard under lights at Albion and gates will be open from 16:00h with the first ball set to bowl off from 18:00h.

Admission to the ground is $1500. Trinbago Titans Squad: Rayad Emrit, Lendl

Simmons, Imran Khan, Steven Katwaroo, Roshon Primus, Deron Davis, John Russ-Jagessar, Amir Jangoo Nicholas Pooran, Kevon Cooper, Tion Webster and Vikash Mohan Guyana All-Stars: Leon Johnson, Assad Fudadin, Sherfane Rutherford,

Akshaya Persaud, Chris Barnwell, Raymon Reifer, Gajanand Singh, Anthony Bramble, Jonathan Foo, Romario Shepherd, Veerasammy Permaul, Ricardo Adams, Steven Jacobs, Devendra Bishoo, Gudakesh Motie and Keon Joseph

friDAY, march 30, 2018

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Cheddi Jagan Centenary Cup T20

Crandon expects team to beat Pg 23

Guyana All-Stars going through their stretches during Thursday’s practice session ahead of the Cheddi Jagan Centenary Cup T20

Trinbago Titans

Coach Esuan Crandon

Pg 22

New champions beckon in Milo football

Can Sir Leon’s Lesson power their way to the title?

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