Guyanatime 3 april 2018

Bartica Regatta "one of the biggest ever" – Mayor P15

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

Issue No. 3522

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Tuesday, April 3, 2018

PRICE

Robbers preying on bank customers

Several new safety measures being considered – GAB Page 3

Data scandal Exxon contract contradicts Minister, 4th local entity prohibits impromptu denies ties with Cambridge Analytica visits – Nandlall Page 10

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Chinese P2 nationals held hostage, robbed by armed bandits Linden businessman’s murder

Case file to be sent to DPP for advice P8

Page 5

Easter Monday celebrations Page 5

GDF Captain to be charged shortly P7

...as Police conclude investigations

Govt in process of selecting consultancy company for hospitals' upgrade P11

Body found in Pomeroon River identified as that of P2 labourer Scores of persons flocked the Kingston Seawall in the afternoon on Easter Monday and took part in traditional kite flying after a rainy morning

La Penitence market vendor shot to head trying to ward off bandits Page 14

Winnie Mandela dies at 81 Page 15

“Guyanese Girl Code” gets overwhelming response P15

2 news

tuesDAY, April 3, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyanese crushed to death PME of woman reportedly strangled by ex-lover for Wednesday at TCL Port in Trinidad …family uncertain of cause of death

A

Guyanese man was on Sunday crushed to death while loading a vessel at the Trinidad Cement Limited (TCL) Port in Claxton Bay, Trinidad.

The dead man has been identified as 44-yearold Doonauth Nateram of Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara. Based on reports gathered, the man, who had been living in the twin-island republic for some time, died while receiving medical attention at the San Fernando General Hospital in the wee hours of Sunday.

According to reports coming out of Trinidad, Nateram was employed with ANS Shipping Company and on the day of his demise, he was one of several workers who were loading a general cargo vessel with a shipment of cement.

He was reportedly on board the vessel when he was pinned to the rail by an excavator operated by his countryman, Ravi Mahadeo Persaud of Plantain Walk, West Bank Demerara. A Police report revealed that while Persaud was turning the excavator, Nateram was

accidentally pinned. The incident occurred about 02:40h.

The injured man was picked up and taken to the Hospital by a TCL Ambulance, and doctors made every attempt to resuscitate him, but their efforts were in vain. Nateram’s body was taken to the hospital mortuary and an autopsy is expected to be conducted.

The Police are continuing their investigation into the unfortunate demise of Nateram. Attempts to make contact with the dead man’s family in Guyana proved futile.

T

he post-mortem examination on the woman who is suspected to have been strangled to death by her ex-lover, whom she reportedly caught in bed with another woman on Friday, will be conducted on Wednesday.

The woman, 32-yearold Rosemary Rudder of Eccles Old Road, East Bank Demerara, was reportedly strangled by the 39-year-old bus driver in his Westminster, West Bank Demerara home.

Her relatives are uncer-

Rosemary Rudder

tain how Rudder met her demise, and would speak only after the PME has been conducted.

Prior to her death, Rudder allegedly found her ex with the woman, and a heated argument ensued between the two.

The argument escalated, and the two began to fight.

During the fight, Rudder fell

to the ground motionless.

The minibus driver is reported to have told the La Grange Police Station what had occurred. Ranks of the said station went to the house, and Rudder’s lifeless body was found. She was rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH), where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

The bus driver was immediately arrested and taken into Police custody.

In 2006, the now dead woman’s brother, Fenton Rudder, and grandmother, Hannah Cameron, along with a third person, David Brummel, were shot and killed after gunmen invaded their home at Agricola, Greater Georgetown. After shooting the trio dead, the gunmen had set the house on fire.

Chinese Nationals held hostage, robbed by armed bandits

T

hree Chinese nationals were on Easter Monday held hostage by five armed men at their Sheriff Street, Georgetown home and subsequently robbed of over a million dollars in cash and other valuables.

The victims were identified as 36-year-old businessman Xu Dalu; 46-yearold businesswoman Lan Cheng; and 41-year-old businesswoman Wang Ying, all of Lot 128 Sheriff Street, Georgetown.

Dalu was reportedly relieved of one mobile phone, US$1000, Yen$3000 and G$200,000 while Cheng and Ying were relieved of one iPad each.

Based on information received, the three Chinese nationals had just returned home in their silver- grey Premio motor car, bearing registration number PVV

4765, and upon entering their yard, they were confronted by the men who were all armed with handguns.

They were reportedly accosted and taken into the lower flat of the building where they were kept hostage by two of the bandits, while the others ransacked the house. After taking the items mentioned above, the men left the premises.

After waiting for a few minutes to ensure the bandits had left, the victims raised an alarm and the Police were summoned.

Statements were taken from the victims and the Police are looking at the possibility of retrieving any surveillance footage from nearby buildings as they continue their investigations.

The Police have since confirmed that no one was injured during the ordeal.

Body found in Pomeroon River identified

O

ne week after the body of a man was discovered floating in the Pomeroon River, it has been identified as that of Orlando Naughton of Charity Squatting Area, Pomeroon.

According to information received, Keith Naughton, father of the now dead man, visited the Charity Police Station, and informed the ranks that the body that was retrieved from the river was suspected to be that of his 26-year-old son. As such, the devastated father was taken to the mortuary where he positively identified the body.

Guyana Times understands that the deceased man was an alcoholic who worked as a labourer at the Charity Waterfront.

The grieving father re-

vealed that his son lived alone at Charity and he was last seen alive two Fridays ago.

Reports revealed that the body was seen floating face down next to a boat last Monday by a farmer in the vicinity of Grant Stelling, Hope, Lower Pomeroon.

As such, residents were alerted and the Police were summoned. The body was then recovered from the water and taken to the Suddie Mortuary, where a post-mortem examination was scheduled to be performed. There was no identification attached to the body at the time it was found.

It was revealed that there were no marks of violence to determine whether foul play was involved in the death of Naughton.

news

3

tuesDAY, April 3, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

Robbers preying on bank customers

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

Several new safety measures being considered – GAB

Tuesday, April 3 – 05:00h-06:30h and Wednesday, April 4 – 05:00h-06:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, April 3 – 06:00h-07:30h and Wednesday, April 4 – 06:30h-08:00h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Light rain showers and thundery showers will prevail throughout the day, with light cloudy skies in the afternoon and evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 21 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly to North-easterly between 2.23 metres and 5.81 metres.

High Tide: 06:06h and 18:31h reaching maximum heights of 2.77 metres and 2.66 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 12:05h reaching a minimum height of 0.44 metre.

SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2018

LOTTERY NUMBERS M

02

01

15

16

19

25 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

DAILY MILLIONS 05 09 10 13

16

LUCKY 3 6 8 2

9

Afternoon Draw DRAW DE LINE

02

23

04

11

14

6

2

Evening Draw

15

17

20

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

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

A

midst concerns over the recent spate of robberies committed on persons who have been targeted after conducting financial transactions at several commercial banks, the umbrella body representing these local financial institutions, the Guyana Association of Bankers (GAB), is now considering implementing some new measures to protect customers.

The GAB told Guyana Times that it has engaged the relevant authorities, and has committed to an ongoing joint effort with a view to ensuring the safety of staff, customers and other stakeholders. This comes months after a decision was taken by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to set up a sting operation.

“Varying recommendations aimed at enhancing the existing security procedures and safeguarding banking operations are being considered for adoption by the individual banks as applicable”, the Association said in response to a series of questions posed to it by this newspaper.

GAB said some of these measures are of a sensitive nature, and, as such, it would not be prudent to divulge these to the public.

However, the organization has said that, should any of the proposed measures have implications for respective customers, the necessary advisories would be shared at the appropriate time.

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan had, in early March, suggested that a sting operation could help to curb the issue before it becomes uncontrollable, and would help to address the situation from a collective standpoint. The minister did not reject popular opinion suggesting suspicion of involvement of bank employees and relatives of persons who have been robbed in the past.

He had described the situation as worrying, and said he wanted the problem to be addressed soon.

Ramjattan had also revealed that certain banks have started conducting their own internal investigations into the phenomenon, to determine the truth; and he explained that most commercial banks have reported that their tellers would

to banks to carry out some amount of analysis within their daily operations.

“There are so many things the banks can do from

GAB President Richard Sammy

not be able to retain their phones while on duty.

A source close to the GAB indicated to this newspaper that employees at several of these banks now have to abide to a strict policy, whereby they are prohibited from using their mobile telephones.

While the GAB neither confirmed nor denied this information when questioned, a senior employee at another banking institution claimed that while this was enforced before, the rules are much sterner and inflexible.

Crime Chief Paul Williams had also appealed

an analysis that (would) really help us to see if there is any inside dealing or inside information,” Williams has Turn to page 11 stated.

4

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesDAY, April 3, 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

Continued renewal F

or millions of Christians in countries around the world, including Guyana, the just concluded Easter holiday was a time to celebrate Jesus Christ’s Resurrection.

During this period, we celebrated Christ rising over spiritual death, setting us free from its ultimate effect, previously permitted through the streak of inherited sin coming from Adam and Eve. This breaking of the bonds of death is forever good news.

The ideal of Easter for many others is to merely contemplate the moment, whether it is religious in nature or not. Easter means to live with a sense of newness. Just as the season lifts our spirits and makes us feel like the whole world is new, the Resurrection of Jesus makes “all things new.” (Rev. 21:5) The Easter spirit, therefore, is a spirit of renewal; that enables us to show up at work with a positive attitude, to renew relationships that have been taken for granted, and to express appreciation and affection to those closest to us. It means to see the world through new eyes.

With this faith, we are able to hold on to an enduring sense of joy, even in the midst of the sadness we experience from the loss of a loved one, a failure to achieve an important goal, or a setback during recovery from an illness.

The vibrant colours of flowering plants, leafing trees and greening grass are all reminders that life is continuously renewed each year, without fail — the very essence of hope. The symbols of Easter should continue to remind us, beyond the Holiday itself, that our world can indeed be a colourful, vibrant and life-affirming place — despite all the sobering events that occur in it each day. Even though the holiday has passed, we owe it to ourselves every day to stop and appreciate all the good things our lives hold — all the blessings, both large and small.

Perhaps you go to church every Sunday, or maybe you only go to church on Easter Sunday; maybe you don’t go to church at all, or maybe you don’t belong to a Judeo-Christian religion. No matter. The contemplation of renewal can be a useful exercise for everyone. Renewal can, however, be a peculiar thing at times. Sometimes, like seasons, it is an immutable law, part of nature’s cycle; other times, there is no renewal at all. Things happen, good and bad. That’s it, and there’s no reset. It is a hard fact.

While in nature renewal is mostly automatic, for humanity, renewal requires sacrifice, or hard work, or a promise to do so. We must therefore be prepared to go the extra mile.

There are those who also contemplate the idea of democratic renewal. This concept includes a range of diverse activities, processes and mechanisms, and can include constitutional reform, increasing the transparency of Government decision-making, activating new forms of civic engagement, and introducing new spaces for public debate.

In a world where so much is lacking, where innocent lives are lost through war, where millions starve every day, and where a large percentage of the world’s population is still marginalised, it is the spirit of hope that keeps driving us forward. It is the hope that tomorrow’s sunrise will herald a change in these circumstances, and will bring about renewal in all its forms.

In some ways, humanity can be able to renew itself, at least temporarily. Even after the Easter and Passover season, it is ideal for us to consider our own moment of renewal, whatever it may be.

No matter one’s religion – or even one’s lack of any religious belief – all welcome this time of year. So whether it is with our kids, with nature, in our workplaces, within the Government, or in our relationships, let us all take time away from regular routines this time of year to renew ourselves and refresh others with hope that springs eternal .

We always have the hope of renewal, if not the fact.

This is how it’s done: Kite-flying knowledge being passed onto the younger generation on Easter Monday

Observing lawful and fair termination and dismissal from private and public sector employment Dear Editor, I would be grateful for the publication of this letter on the issue of observing lawful and fair termination and dismissal from employment, both in the private and public sectors.

The right to work and to continue working is guided by national and international laws, the application of which demands principled and fair treatment, without discrimination and with due process and natural justice.

The system of industrial relations is informed, influenced, and functions within the norms of national legislation, international labour standards, and regional labour policy of CARICOM. The Constitution of Guyana, the labour laws, and international labour conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) ratified

by Guyana as treaty obligations, and, as international law, provide the legal basis, foundation and framework for the conduct of labour relations by the Government, its agencies, and social partners, represented by trade unions and employers and their organizations.

Together, these instruments constitute the Labour Code of Guyana.

The general declaratory principles of the Constitution of Guyana include the right to work, the right to equality of opportunity and treatment in all aspects of employment, and impose a duty on the State to protect the just rights and interests of citizens.

Chapter III of the Constitution affirms the fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual, and entitle every citizen basic rights without distinction and discrimination, regardless of his/her race, origin, political opinions, colour, creed or sex; subject to the rights and freedoms of others and the public interest, to freedom of conscience, of expression, assembly, and association (Articles 40, 145, 146, and 147).

The Prevention of Discrimination Act, No. 26 of 1997, protects against unlawful discrimination. Part II, Section 4 of the Act prohibits discrimination on the grounds of: race, sex, religion, colour, ethnic origin, indigenous population, national extraction, social origin, economic status, political opinion, disability, family responsibilities, pregnancy, marital status, or age; except for the purposes of retirement, and restriction on work and employment of minors. The Act also prohibits discrimination against a person by distinction, exclusion or preference, the intent of which is to deny equality of opportunity or treatment in any employment or occupation.

Part III, Section 5 of this Act protects against discrimination in employment; for it is unlawful for any employer or his/her agent to discriminate in relation to recruitment, selection, or employment on any grounds, except where genuine occupational qualifications exist in keep-

ing with this Act. These are clear lawful obligations, but there are some serious concerns about the actions of employers or their agents on the application of fairness in bringing an employment relationship to an end by termination, dismissal, or constructive dismissal.

The application of fairness relates to: i) Procedural fairness, requiring that an end of employment should be in accordance with a fair procedure; and ii) substantive fairness, which requires that there should be a fair reason for ending an employment contract.

The usual valid grounds for termination by employers or their agents must: i) relate to work performance issues; ii) a series of work-related infractions not so serious as to warrant summary dismissal; iii) serious misconduct; iv) by mutual consent; v) by required notice; vi) for reasons of redundancy relating to the operational requirements of the enterprise; and vii) end of contract without the option for renewal. Where there is an option for the renewal of an employment contract at the end of the current contract, there must be valid reasons, based on one of the seven grounds listed above, for the non-renewal. End of an optional renewal of a contract must not be used as pretext, excuse, or reason for prefer-

ential replacements.

The valid grounds for summary dismissal under the Termination of Employment and Severance Pay Act No 19 of 1997 must relate to the capacity and conduct of the employee at work for good and sufficient cause relating to serious misconduct on the job. Section 4 of this Act states clearly the several reasons which are not valid or constitute good or sufficient cause for dismissal or for disciplinary action against an employee; including race, sex, religion, colour, ethnic origin, national extraction, social origin, political opinion, family responsibility or marital status. A dismissal on any of the several grounds listed under section 4 of this Act would constitute unfair dismissal. On terminations and dismissals on the initiative of the employer, the burden of valid proof rests with the employer.

The issue of constructive dismissal flows from actions or the conduct of the employer, his agent, or manager making it difficult or untenable for the employee to continue working, and may be forced to resign or leave the job on own initiative. An employee in such a situation can be deemed to have been unfairly dismissed, and can challenge the employer in a court of law. The burden of proof to establish “constructive dismissal” rests with the concerned employee.

Yours faithfully, Samuel J Goolsarran

news

5

tuesDAY, April 3, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Data scandal

4th local entity denies ties with Cambridge Analytica – following disavowals from political parties

W

hile it is understood that Guyana is home to a branch of the SCL Group (formerly Strategic Communication Laboratories), the parent company of Cambridge Analytica (CA), the National Youth Council (NYC), has become the latest organisation to distance itself from the company, after the main political parties did so.

CA, a political consulting firm from the United Kingdom, has been making headlines around the world for its alleged use of data gleaned from millions of Facebook accounts during the 2016 United States presidential elections to send targeted advertisements.

There are even reports that the firm had a hand in the

BREXIT campaign.

Soon after an investigation was launched in the United Kingdom, the former General Secretaries of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and the Alliance for Change (AFC), Donald Ramotar and David Patterson respectively, were quoted in sections of the media denying ever contracting the company.

Current General Secretary of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Joseph Harmon, also made a similar denial.

In 2015, at the time of the General and Regional Elections in Guyana, Jamal Goodluck was part of the steering committee of the NYC, which did work to improve voter turnout. In an in-

Storage crates being wheeled from CA’s office in London

terview with this publication on Tuesday, Goodluck, now the council’s chairman, also denied that his organisation had links with the firm.

The SCL group office is located on Charlotte Street, Lacytown. However, the ex-

tent of its work in Guyana is unclear at this point.

Requests from this publication for a comment and information from SCL authorities have so far not been answered.

Since the expose, neigh-

bouring Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) has joined the list of countries that have launched probes into the work of the British political consultants.

According to a report from the T&T Guardian, a local probe is targeting the organisation’s alleged link with the past People’s Partnership administration for the 2015 general election.

The Guardian has stated that the country’s Attorney General, Faris Al Rawi, announced the moves in Parliament after Christopher Wylie, a former CA employee - now whistleblower - said the firm worked for the T&T Government in 2013 during his testimony before the House of Commons in the UK. According to the

Guardian, Wylie referenced a former national security minister and CA’s monitoring of internet browsing in T&T. “The alleged acts committed by Cambridge Analytica and its affiliates potentially constitute breaches of T&T law,” Al Rawi was quoted by the Guardian as saying when he announced the action.

The Attorney General also said his office would audit all Government ministries, statutory authorities, state enterprises, and the National Security Council to ascertain the truth behind whether any contracts were established, any payments made, or any services rendered by CA or its affiliates.

New Year’s Day Accident at Meer Zorgen

Help us implement the Accused to settle with victim’s family –lawyer Gatekeepers’ Programme T

Dear Editor, The Gatekeepers’ Programme was launched under former Health Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy to train lay counsellors, individuals who would possess the skills and knowledge to be proactive first responders in tackling suicide and abuse.

A number of persons who were trained under this programme indicated to The Caribbean Voice that the programme was beginning to make an impact when it was dropped, after Dr. Ramsammy was replaced

by Dr. Bheri Ramsarran as Health Minister.

Since the launch of our campaign in 2014, we have been lobbying for a return of this programme, and while the current government did promise to bring it back, a timeline to do so has not been set up.

Consequently we reached out to Seva International, an NGO based in India, and they offered us a trainer for

a period of one year. While we are not paying for the services of the trainer, we need to cover her living expenses and the cost of the training programme for the year, estimated at just under US$32,000.

Towards this end, we have set up a gofundme account, and are humbly requesting readers of this newspaper to help us realize the goal of implementing this training programme by donating (no amount is too small) to our gofundme account, which can be accessed at https://www. gofundme.com/lay-counselor-training-program or through the gofundme link at the top of the cover (first) page on our website, www. caribvoice.org. We also implore you to please share the link as widely as possible, and urge family, friends and colleagues to support our efforts.

Sincerely, The Caribbean Voice

he family of the late Aslam Baksh of Old Road, La Grange, West Bank Demerara has opted to settle with the defendant, Vijay Bidoor, following Baksh’s demise by road accident on January 1, 2018.

At a recent appearance at the Wales Magistrate’s Court, the charge was reread and Bidoor entered a not-guilty plea on allegations that he had driven motor car HB 1505 in a dangerous manner on January 1, 2018, thereby causing the death of Baksh on the Meer Zorgen public road, WBD. Bidoor’s attorney, Melvin Duke, informed the court there is “an agreement in place with relatives”, and Magistrate Rochelle Liverpool gave the prosecu-

Aslam Baksh, the deceased wash bay attendant

tion time to send the matter for advice.

The 24-year-old Aslam Baksh was the first road fatality for 2018. The only son of his parents, Baksh died just a few metres away from his home.

Police had noted that the wash bay attendant died fol-

lowing a two car smash-up at Meer-Zorgen, at around 02:15h on New Year’s Day. Investigations had revealed that the dead man was a passenger of the motorcar driven by 42-year-old Bidoor of Goed Fortuin, WBD. Amanda Rickyram, 28, of Unity Street, La Grange, WBD; Gobin Dannyram, 29, of 225 Goed Fortuin; and Diana Chand, 19, of Cemetery Road, Georgetown, had all been passengers in the same car, proceeding south along the Meer-Zorgen Public Road when the hire car, proceeding in the opposite direction, drove into their path and collided with them.

They reportedly had sustained serious injuries and were rushed to the West Demerara Regional

Hospital, and were later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where Baksh succumbed while receiving medical attention.

The dead man’s father, Karim Baksh, had told Guyana Times that Aslam sustained severe head injuries, along with a broken nose and jaw, and half of his tongue had been severed.

“He got head injuries. He broke his nose, jaw, tongue cut out, lost all his teeth, and his brain damaged. He was semi-conscious when we see he, and lil bit after we see he, them tell we that he dead,” the elderly man had told this publication in January.

The matter continues at the Wales Magistrate’s Court on May 3.

6

tuesDAY, April 3, 2018

Page

M

1

ost children generate a little chaos and disorganisation. Yours might flit from one thing to the next — forgetting books at school, leaving towels on the floor, and failing to finish projects once started.

You’d like them to be more organised and to stay focused on tasks, such as homework. Is it possible?

Yes! A few children seem naturally organised, but for the rest, organisation is a skill learnt over time. With help and some practice, children can develop an effective approach to getting stuff done.

And you’re the perfect person to teach your child,

guyanatimesgy.com

Foundation

needs to be and gathers the supplies needed to complete the task.

Staying focused means sticking with the task and learning to say “no” to distractions.

Getting it done means finishing up, checking your work, and putting on the finishing touches, like remembering to put a homework paper in the right folder and putting the folder inside the backpack so it’s ready for the next day.

Once children know these steps – and how to apply them – they can start tackling tasks more independently. That means homework, chores, and other tasks will get done with

2 3

help your child feel more competent and effective.

Children feel self-confident and proud when they’re able to accomplish their tasks and responsibilities. They’re also sure to be pleased when they find they have some extra free time to do what they’d like to do.

From teeth brushing to book reports

To get started, introduce the 1-2-3 method and help your child practice it in daily life. Even something as simple as brushing teeth requires this approach, so you might use this example when introducing the concept: Getting organised: Go to

wanted to call your friend.

Concentrate and remember what the dentist told you about brushing away from your gums.

Getting it done: If you do steps 1 and 2, step 3 almost takes care of itself.

Hurray, your three minutes are up and your teeth are clean! Getting it done means finishing up and putting on the finishing touches.

With teeth brushing, that would be stuff like turning off the water, putting away the toothbrush and paste, and making sure there’s no toothpaste foam on your face!

With a more complex task, like completing a book report, the steps would become more involved, but the basic elements remain the same.

Here’s how you might walk your child through the steps:

1. Getting organised

even if you don’t feel all that organised yourself!

Easy as 1-2-3

For children, all tasks can be broken down into a 1-2-3 process.

Getting organised means a child gets where he or she

increasing consistency and efficiency. Of course, children will still need parental help and guidance, but you probably won’t have to nag as much.

Not only is it practical to teach these skills, but knowing how to get stuff done will

the bathroom and get out your toothbrush and toothpaste. Turn on the water.

Staying focused: Dentists say to brush for three minutes, so that means keep brushing, even if you hear a really good song on the radio or you remember that you

Explain that this step is all about getting ready. It’s about figuring out what children need to do and gathering any necessary items.

For instance: “So you have a book report to write. What do you need to do to get started?” Help your child make a list of things like: Choose a book. Make sure the book is OK with the teacher. Write down the book and the author’s name. Check the book out of the library. Mark the due date on a calendar.

Then help your child think of the supplies needed: The book, some note cards, a pen for taking notes, the teacher’s list of questions to answer, and a report cover.

Have your child gather the

supplies where the work will take place.

As the project progresses, show your child how to use the list to check off what’s already done and get ready for what’s next.

Demonstrate how to add to the list, too. Coach your

child to think, “OK, I did these things. Now, what’s next? Oh yeah, start reading the book” and to add things to the list like finish the book, read over my teacher’s directions, start writing the report. (Excerpt from kidshealth.org)

2 simple rules for raising healthy eaters …children mirror our own eating habits

By John D Rich Jr, PhD

But, let me end on a note of analysis. It’s possible – now hear me out – it’s possible that the resistance you are worried about encountering from your child is really your own resistance to a change toward healthy eating.

Don’t be ashamed. If you like Captain Crunch, I want you to stand up right now, lift your hands to the sky, and shout it out to the entire world: “I LIKE CAPTAIN CRUNCH!” There. Doesn’t that feel better? I’ll bet you didn’t actually do it. First of all, you work in a library, so this kind of behaviour would be frowned upon. Secondly, it’s a silly thing to proclaim.

Listen – eat what you want, when you want it.

I know I won’t be

Continued

able to refuse French fries and dessert all the time.

You want to indulge? Go ahead and indulge. But just keep in mind that your child is taking her cues from you. To the extent that you want your child to grow up eating the foods that the rational side of your brain knows are best, adjust your shopping list accordingly, and then eat the foods you want your child to be eating. In the long run, you’ll be happy you did it. (Excerpt from psychologytoday.com)

news

7

tuesDAY, April 3, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Signing bonus case

AG Williams unschooled in financial laws – Opposition Leader

I

n the matter relating to the signing bonus, an affidavit submitted to the court by Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams has been described as shameful.

Opposition Leader Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, who had a look at the document -- which explains why the Government has kept the US$18 million signing bonus outside of the Consolidated Fund – has described it as nonsensical.

“It is shameful that an Attorney General would be so unschooled in the financial laws of the country that he would subscribe to such an affidavit, or have his office send in an affidavit like that,”

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

Jagdeo opined.

Jagdeo, an economist and former Finance Minister,

said he finds the explanation, which is filled with meaningless legal jargon, to be atrocious, and doing more damage than repair to the AG’s argument.

He said, “It goes off in fairyland about definitions of the Consolidated Fund, and confuses it with Deposit Fund; and it makes absolutely no sense, based on what I read there.”

The Opposition Leader has said he would like to see a specialist is hired to testify and clarify the issue.

Jagdeo reiterated that his party feels there was a specific reason why the money was not placed into the Consolidated Fund. That rea-

GDF Captain to be charged shortly – as Police conclude investigations

D

etectives are now said to be wrapping up investigations into the murder of travel agent Reona Payne, who was killed when her reputed husband, GDF Captain Orwain Sandy, reportedly shot her eight times to her body on Saturday.

According to Acting Crime Chief Paul Williams, the investigation is almost completed, and the soldier will be charged within the coming week.

It was previously reported that, at about 11:00hrs on the day of the shooting, the couple were in a motor car proceeding along First Street, Alexander Village, and were heard arguing.

The vehicle, PWW 7163, stopped in the said area, and Payne reportedly exited.

With his service pistol in hand, Sandy pursued her, and a scuffle ensued.

Captain Orwain Sandy

The man then used his weapon to discharge eight rounds in the direction of the now dead woman.

He then re-entered his vehicle and travelled to the Brickdam Police Station, where he reported what had transpired. Police visited the scene and discovered Payne’s lifeless body.

Sandy reportedly was threatening the woman’s life for a number of months,

after he had suspected her of infidelity.

Guyana Times saw text messages exchanged between Payne and a friend dating back to December 27, 2017, wherein she reported that she had been punched to her face by Sandy.

Pictures were also sent

by Payne which showed her right eye being swollen shut.

One text message sent by the late Payne read as follows: “next thing you know, he was screaming that he would give up his career for me…he would put me in a box…and punched me in my face”.

A workmate of Payne’s also reported seeing bruises on her body and marks of violence on her face.

As such, Payne’s relatives are of the belief that Sandy had planned the murder.

Attorney General Basil Williams

son is: so that the money is not audited by the Auditor General, and it could possibly get stolen.

“So while parts of it would have been used to pay a lawyer et cetera, we would have seen inflated bills and a whole range of other issues – expenditure that would have used up all the money,” Jagdeo explained.

Jagdeo said that is the main reason why the Opposition, through its Member of Parliament, former Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, had filed a case in the High Court to have the money transferred into the Consolidated Fund.

Shifting his attention back to the affidavit, Jagdeo said there isn’t any defence for keeping the money outside of the Consolidated Fund, and it therefore meant that something had to be said otherwise.

In light of recent reports that the signing bonus that was placed in a private account at the Bank of Guyana (BoG) was reportedly removed, several senior Government Ministers have dismissed the claim.

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.

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, has also denied that the money was used, and despite the ongoing case, he said Government would take steps to have the money placed into the Consolidated Fund.

“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 has stated.

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman has declined to pronounce on

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

He said there is nothing untoward or sinister about monies from the signing bonus being used for the purpose for which it is intended, that is: to pay legal fees for the Guyana/Venezuela border controversy case.

Government’s decision to deposit the signing bonus received from ExxonMobil into a private account is being challenged by Nandlall, who is contending that Government is in “breach of, and contrary to, the letter and spirit of Article 216 of the Constitution of the Republic of Guyana, and Section 38 (1) of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act, Chapter 73:02.”

At the last hearing -- on March 13, 2018 -- timelines were given for the parties to file the requisite documents.

Nandlall had to file an affidavit in reply on or before March 26. Thereafter, the applicant has to file the submissions before April 20, and the respondents have to file their submissions before May 11.

The matter has been adjourned to June 14 for hearing or ruling.

8 NEWS

tuesDAY, April 3, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Goed Fortuin brawl lands several persons in court

A

violent brawl at Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara in March has landed several persons an appearance before Wales Magistrate Rochelle Liverpool in June, when the matter continues in the Wales Magistrate’s Court.

Before the magistrate last month, the four involved parties in this dispute: Akeem Henry, Linda Davidson, Teresa Bacchus and Akeem Caesar, all de-

nied the accusations levelled against them.

Police contend that an unemployed Davidson assaulted 17-year-old Bacchus at Goed Fortuin on March 1, 2018. Bacchus, who works in Quality Control, was meanwhile countercharged for assaulting Davidson, causing her actual bodily harm on the day in question.

Davidson was placed on $15,000 bail, while the teenager was placed on $30,000

bail.

The Police further contend that as the showdown continued, 23-yearold Akeem Henry of Goed Fortuin assaulted Linda Davidson, causing her actual bodily harm.

In another matter, the prosecution brought a separate charge against Henry, accusing him of assaulting Alex Singh, causing him actual bodily harm, on February 9, 2018 at Goed

Fortuin.

For the two assault matters he faces, Henry was released on $20,000 bail for each of the matters.

Construction worker Akeem Caesar, 18, of Goed Fortuin Housing Scheme, was also accused of assaulting Singh on February 9, 2018 at Goed Fortuin. He was released on $20,000 bail. All matters have been adjourned to June 7, 2018 for report and fixture.

Linden businessman’s murder

Case file to be sent to DPP for advice

T

he case file for the prime suspect in the murder of Linden businessman Romel Gomes is expected to be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice today, E Division (Linden-Kwakwani) Commander Anthony Vanderhyden has confirmed.

The suspect, 35-yearold John Caesar, a chef of East Ruimveldt Housing Scheme, Georgetown, was positively identified by a neighbour of the now dead man after his arrest. Gomes was murdered on March 12, 2018, and the prime suspect was on Wednesday ar-

Murdered: Romel Gomes

rested while in the vicinity of Carmichael Street, Georgetown .

On the day of Gomes’ murder, Caesar was reportedly one of two persons seen

at the home of the now dead man. The 32-year-old businessman was heard arguing with Caesar and another man prior to his death.

It was reported that during the argument, a loud explosion was heard and the suspects fled the scene in Gomes’ motor car – PVV 2057 – which was parked in front of his shop.

Gomes was discovered in a pool of blood with his hands bound in front of him and a bandana tied around his mouth.

He was found with a suspected gunshot injury to his right temple, a small laceration on top of his head and another lacerated wound

to the neck. A post-mortem examination later gave his cause of death as a gunshot wound to the head.

His car was recovered intact at One Mile, Wismar, Linden the day after the murder was committed.

Ever since, the Police have been calling on persons in the neighbourhood to come forward and provide information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects.

In light of the arrest, detectives praised those who were instrumental in the arrest of the man.

Minibus operator, carpenter granted $30,000 bail each on assault charges

T

hirty-nine-year-old Nigel Douglas of 171 Unity Street, La Grange, West Bank Demerara (WBD), and Sherlock Yaw, 30, of 284 Schoonord, WBD, were both released on $30,000 bail for assault charges.

The duo appeared before Magistrate Rochelle Liverpool on Friday at the Wales Magistrate’s Court.

Yaw, a carpenter and mason, was arraigned on the charge that he unlawfully wounded Douglas at Parfait Harmonie, WBD, on March 9, 2018.

Douglas was accused of assaulting Yaw, causing him actual bodily harm on the day in question. Both men denied the charges and were both granted their pre-trial liberty. They were unrepresented by legal counsel.

The matter continues May 31, 2018 for reports and fixtures.

Breaking…

W

…Venezuelan eye-pass ell, as old people say, “boat gone a wata…cyaan turn back!” on the eye-pass the Venezuelans have been taking on us for fifty-six years, after they claimed two-thirds of Guyana. It was Feb 1962 when they told the UN that the 1899 Arbitral Award that fixed our border was “null and void”. So its poetic justice that the UN Secretary General decided to send the controversy to the ICJ for a decision.

But, not surprisingly, Maduro immediately announced Venezuela won’t be accepting the ICJ’s decision. Meaning, of course, he accepts Guyana’s case is so strong, Venezuela has no chance of coming away with even “a blade of grass”. Maybe with the US ban on our catfishes, we can send Maduro a spring cuirass?!!

So where does this leave us?? In a very strong position to use the upcoming ICJ decision as a springboard to remove the Venezuelan sword of Damocles from over our Essequibo forever. As some – including the Venezuelans -- have said, the ICJ doesn’t have an enforcement mechanism to enforce its decisions. And countries like the US and Israel flouting its decisions have set very bad precedents.

But that’s where realpolitik comes in. We just have to look at the origin of the controversy to seen how we can end it. After US President Kennedy decided in Oct 1961 that Jagan was a Moscow-friendly communist, he immediately unleashed action on several fronts to head off a “second Cuba” in “his” Hemisphere. Pressuring the Brits to change the electoral system to PR to allow the PNC-UF coalition was one arrow in his foreign policy quiver.

Another was put into play when he flew down to Venezuela in December 1961 to signal the US wouldn’t be displeased if the border controversy was reignited.

So said, so done; and the rest, as they say, is history. A very frustrating history, in which Venezuela blocked the construction of a hydro power dam in the seventies that could’ve transformed our economy.

This time, however, the US is in our camp, not only because of the Exxon oil strike here, but because they want Maduro out so bad it hurts!! And snuffing out the Venezuelan claim to Essequibo can go a long way in undercutting Maduro’s flagging legitimacy.

Secondly, we’ve got to take the lead of Burnham back in the seventies and rally the developing world to condemn the Venezuelan hypocrisy of pretending to be “progressive” when they’re willing to take candy (oil) from a baby (Guyana)!

It will help our case, of course, if the 2020 elections aren’t rigged – since this practice of Burnham’s undermined much of the goodwill he earned from progressive states. …green?

President Granger was in Bartica over the weekend for the Bartica Regatta, and he didn’t miss the opportunity to “big up” his boast about making Bartica into a “green town”. This was kicked off back in Dec 2015 when his environmental advisor announced plans for “a new landfill site for waste disposal; alternative energy supply for Bartica, including solar, green parks; capacity building for the green initiative; restoration of public spaces; a new government complex; a new commercial area; solar-powered lighting; solar-powering of government buildings; including schools; tree lining of all roads; construction of a modern stelling with a boardwalk for community recreation and tourist activities”, after much huffing and puffing.

But all Granger could mention in his “bigging up” was the new boardwalk and its solar panels!! Nowhere to be seen was the 1.5G power produced by the promised solar farm. But not to worry…the President was able to “show” power!

His people had lugged the Wartsilla plant from Reg 2 to give Bartica power while he was there!! …the oil contract?

Trotman swore the sky would fall if the oil contract were RENEGOTIATED. But he’s just declared he’s willing to BREAK even the contract. He says he’ll visit the FPSO when he wants…never mind the contractually mandated 7-day notice!!

What a tough guy!!

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

News

9

tuesDAY, April 3, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GuySuCo’s reopening

Gaskin says move to produce molasses economically unfeasible

T

he plan agreed by Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) and the Special Purpose Unit (SPU) of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) to have the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) produce molasses for the company’s operations is not economically feasible.

This is according to outspoken commentator and economist Ramon Gaskin, who says the undertaking will only profit the company in the end.

His comment comes in light of the recent disclosure

by SPU Head Colvin HeathLondon that DDL and the Unit had entered into an agreement wherein DDL was to advance the SPU in a collaborative effort to produce the molasses that it wants. DDL has a shortfall of more than 27,000 tonnes of molasses.

Heath-London said GuySuCo was hoping that operations at both Enmore

The Enmore Sugar Factory

and Skeldon would be able to meet this shortfall. He noted that the DDL would be advancing monies to cover the costs for molasses production, which they would collectively use to produce the sugar by-product.

Gaskin said based on his understanding, DDL is getting molasses from GuySuCo at 50 per cent of the actual cost. This may be the main reason why the company pushed to have the agreement signed so as

to cover the remainder of the year.

Asked whether it was feasible to reopen the estates to produce molasses, Gaskin said, “It is not feasible. DDL was able to convince the Government that they really need molasses badly and they must reopen the estate just to get molasses. But if you look at DDL books, DDL has over $10 billion worth of stock. DDL could shut down for a whole year and still have rum in the bond,” he explained.

While Gaskin did not want to say more on the issue, he added that he believed GuySuCo must be able to state the cost for operating these estates to produce molasses and whether they were operating at a loss. The economist maintained, however, that it did not seem feasible to reopen the factory to produce 1000 tonnes of molasses per month, when in fact GuySuCo was producing 70,000 tonnes per year for the same company.

“In my opinion, they are subsidising DDL. DDL made $4 billion in profit last year. But I am not sure that they (DDL) are paying market value for the molasses.

And they tied up that deal, because the new people there wouldn’t necessarily allow that to continue,” he explained. He also argued that even with the reduced estates, they would still not be able to produce 70,000 tonnes of molasses annually or 6000 tonnes monthly.

Since the thousands of workers have been fired in the downsizing of the sugar industry last year, DDL, the producer of world-renowned and award-winning El Dorado rums, has complained bitterly over this move. Together, the three remaining estates – Uitvlugt, Blairmont and Albion – are projected to produce a total of 52,000 tonnes of molasses this year. However, DDL’s molasses requirement for 2018 alone is 70,000 tonnes.

The company had been

exploring options, and was even contemplating importing molasses to sustain rum production to meet its increasing local and international demands.

Nevertheless, as a longterm solution to this challenge, the company had submitted an Expression of Interest (EoI) to NICIL and to Government for the potential purchase of the now closed Enmore Estate. This would have allowed the company to have a guaranteed steady supply of molasses.

In early March, DDL said it would be partnering with the SPU and Government to restart the Enmore Estate, and almost 200 workers have been rehired to start operations to produce molasses.

It was reported, too, that over 190 cane harvesters have been employed to harvest some 4300 hectares of sugar cane at Rose Hall, so that it can be used by Albion to also produce molasses for DDL.

Social Services visit to Region 10

Parliamentary Committee cites shortfall in equipment, other supplies

V

isits by the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Social Services to several hospitals in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) last year have unearthed a number of issues, some of which had the potential to impede patient care.

At the Kwakwani Hospital, the Committee discovered that there were several pieces of equipment the Hospital was in need of but did not have. In its sixth special report released recently, the Committee noted that complaints flowed about the Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Linden Hospital Complex, Dr Mohamed Riyasat, who briefed Chairperson Dr Vindhya Persaud and mem-

bers of the team, described the visit as the first from the Committee to the facility.

He informed them that the ICU of the Kwakwani Hospital was not fully equipped. In fact, there was only one monitor attached to the department.

“The staff of the unit also vented their concerns about the lack of monitors, defibrillators, and ventilators in the department. The CEO told the delegation that all the equipment in the department were working and there were six nurses attached to the unit. At the time of the visit, there were no high-risk babies in the unit.”

In addition, there were issues with the structural defects in the operating theatre, including holes in the wall, though the CEO in-

A section of the Kwakwani Hospital

formed the Committee that works on the wall were budgeted for 2017.

“There were also enquiries about the amount of anaesthetics available and [they] were told there were enough to do surgeries.

However, there is a problem

with sutures. Members were further informed that there is a specific type of needle called a cutting edge, which has been out of stock for the past two weeks and the alternative round body is used, but is difficult to handle.”

Recommendations

During the course of their visit, the Committee members had interactions with Dr Quincy Jones. While he is a general doctor, he also holds a Degree in Public Health with a specialisation

in health policy and financing.

“Members enquired what improvements are needed at the hospital and he indicated that behavioural changes were needed across board.

He also indicated that he did a study on whether Linden should go as a Regional Health Authority (RHA) or corporation and he had found that it would be good to make the hospital a corporation in the short term and a RHA in the long term.”

That being said, he noted that there were challenges to establishing a RHA and as such, he recommended that the Hospital be a corporation first. In their report, the Parliamentary Committee recommended there be an investigation into the benefits a RHA would bring versus a corporation.

10 NEWS

tuesDAY, April 3, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Exxon contract contradicts Minister, prohibits impromptu visits – Nandlall

…says Govt has abdicated right to thoroughly inspect operations

F

ormer Attorney General Anil Nandlall is taking the Government to task for its utterances regarding its right to make impromptu visits to ExxonMobil’s operations, noting that the contract it signed with the oil giant prohibited this.

Recently, Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman was quoted in sections of the media saying that impromptu visits would still be carried out.

Nandlall, in a statement on Monday, however, dismissed this as absurd.

“How does Minister Trotman conceive the Government making impromptu visits to the oil operations when the contract expressly and specifically provides that the Minister, through his duly-appointed representative, must give at least seven days’ notice before they can be allowed to observe the petroleum operations conducted by the contractor?” Nandlall questioned.

“What this means is that the Government may attempt impromptu vis-

Former Attorney General Anil Nandlall

its, but unless that seven days’ notice is given in the manner provided for by the contract, the contractor reserves the right to prevent the Government access to the operations.”

Questioning whether the Government meant to disregard its contractual obligations, Nandlall noted that the better thing to do was to acknowledge that they were in a conundrum. He pointed out that the clause restraining Government from inspections – Article Nine –

was meant to prevent comprehensive scrutiny.

“More significantly, when the clause, which requires the seven days’ notice, is read in conjunction with other related clauses, one gets the clear impression that the collective intent of the contract is to prevent the Government from accessing certain type of data, in respect of the oil operations.

“For example, even where the seven days’ notice is given, there are express prohibitions against the Minister interfering with the petroleum operations and there are a whole host of records and reports, which are deemed “confidential” and to which the Minister has no access,” the Attorney-at-Law pointed out.

Meanwhile, taking on recent statements from Business Minister Dominic Gaskin whereby he urged Guyanese to not become distracted by the “tiny vocal minority”, Nandlall pointed out that the only persons supporting the contract have been members of the

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman

Cabinet.

“Apart from Cabinet Ministers, almost every organisation in Guyana and every major commentator are on public record making condignly critical remarks about the contract. The position is no different among the ordinary citizens, including supporters of the Government,” Nandlall said.

The contract

The contract was signed in June 2016 between the coalition Government, ExxonMobil and its partners in the Stabroek Block.

While the contractor is obligated to maintain and submit all pertinent records, the Government can neither make impromptu visits nor interfere with Exxon’s operations.

Article 9e states that “The Minister, through du-

ly-appointed representatives, upon providing the contractor with at least seven days’ notice, shall be entitled to observe petroleum operations conducted by the contractor at his sole cost and expense…”

It goes on to say that “in the exercise of such rights under this paragraph the Minister shall not unduly interfere with the contractor’s operations under this agreement”.

In Article 15 of the contract, Exxon is exempted from paying Corporation, Excise or Value Added Taxes on its earnings from petroleum. Article 15.4 also provides for the Government itself to pay the company’s Income Tax. To facilitate this, the oil company has to submit tax returns to the Government.

Article 32 also stipulates that Government cannot modify the contract or increase any fiscal obligation the company has.

This, therefore, puts a cap on the taxes, royalties, duties, fees, or charges outlined in the contract.

Government also has to compensate the operator if a change to existing laws causes loss of revenue for the company.

According to Article 32.3, “If at any time after the signing of this agreement, there is a change in the laws of Guyana… and such a change has a materially adverse effect on the

Business Minister Dominic Gaskin

economic benefits, including those resulting from the fiscal regime provided by this agreement… the Government shall promptly take any and all affirmative actions to restore the lost or impaired economic benefits to contractor, so that contractor receives the same economic benefit under the agreement that it would have received prior to the change in law or its interpretation, application, or implementation.”

The contract goes on to say: “The foregoing obligation shall include the obligation to resolve promptly, by whatever means may be necessary, any conflict or anomaly between this agreement and any such new or amended legislation, including by way of exemption, legislation, decree and/ or authoritative acts.”

NEWS

11

tuesDAY, April 3, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt in process of selecting Consultancy Company for hospitals’ upgrade

S

ome nine months after signing a multimillion-dollar Line of Credit (LOC) with the Indian Government for the upgrade of three primary healthcare facilities here, the Government of Guyana is now in the process of selecting a consultancy firm to oversee the project.

This was recently revealed by Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Venekatachalam Mahalingam during a press conference at his Church Street, Georgetown office.

According to High Commissioner Mahalingam, a list of companies has already been compiled and handed over to the Guyana Government for selection.

“The Government of

Finance Minister Winston Jordan and Resident Representative of the Indian Exim Bank, Sailesh Prasad signing the LoC agreement back in July for the upgrade of the three hospitals

Guyana is in the process of identifying one of the companies, which will undertake the Detail Project

Report (DPR) as well as the Project Management Consultancy (PMC). That is the first step so that (the se-

Several new safety measures...

He said that while Policemen in plain clothes have been stationed outside of some commercial banks, and traffic ranks are ensuring that unauthorized drivers are not taking up space at these banks, a collective approach involving other stakeholders is still required in order to get to the core of the issue.

The Crime Chief had also advised banks to review the operation of their CCTV cameras. He said this should allow them to see how many persons frequent the bank; whether they are doing transactions, or sitting idly.

According to him, if this is followed, it could help to uncover how many persons are being robbed.

Following the spate of robberies, the GAB had expressed similar concerns

over the escalating incidents of persons being targeted after conducting transactions with commercial banks. In condemning these acts, the Association also assured customers and the public that its members are working to address the issue.

The GAB has used the opportunity to advise its customers and members of the public to, as far as possible, refrain from conducting large cash transactions, and instead utilize other secure methods of payment, such as Manager’s Cheques or direct payments.

The GAB said local security escort services should also be considered for persons operating businesses which may require transportation of cash.

A recent shootout which saw three men being killed

from page 3

by Police has been linked to a suspected attempted robbery. The three men shot dead were: 46-year old Dextroy “Dutty” Cordis of Grove, East Bank Demerara; 37-year-old Kwame Assanah; and 57-year-old Errol “Dynamite” Adams.

The Police have claimed that the men were in a black car, trailing a customer who had just left Scotiabank on Robb Street, Georgetown.

The car reportedly drove up to the customer’s vehicle and two men exited, one brandishing a small firearm at the customer. At the same time, the Police anti-crime patrol pulled up and challenged the would-be bandits, and the fatal shooting ensued.

The matter is still pending investigations.

lected company) will know exactly, what are the specifications of the project that they are supposed to undertake,” the Indian diplomat had explained.

Back in July last year, Finance Minister Winston Jordan signed the US$17.5 million LoC with the Export/ Import (Exim) Bank of India to refurbish existing facilities and construct new buildings at the Suddie Hospital in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam); West Demerara Regional Hospital in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) and the Bartica District Hospital in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni). The LoC will also be used to procure medical equipment to furnish the new and renovated facilities.

Since the Indian Government is funding the project, it is required that the contracts be awarded to companies from that country.

At the signing, Minister Jordan had stated that the upgrade of these facilities would not only improve health-care delivery in Guyana, but the project as a whole will also ease the burden currently placed on the Public Health Ministry ’s budget, which already caters for evacuating hinterland patients to the Georgetown Public Hospital during emergencies.

Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence, who also witnessed the signing, indicated that primary health

care was the most important level of health care.

Therefore, she added, “it is incumbent on her Ministry to ensure that services, including prevention, promotion, rehabilitation and palliative care, are delivered.

The Public Health Minister expressed gratitude for this gesture and assured that the LoC will be utilised to fulfil the Ministry’s mandate of enhancing the delivery of primary health care.

This project is an initiative of the coalition Government, which wanted to use funds set aside for the controversial Specialty Hospital Project for the modernisation of the three primary health-care institutions.

However, the Indian Government had committed to provide a separate loan to make-over the three hospitals in exchange for the Specialty Hospital project continuing. But the Specialty Hospital project fell through.

With an US$18 million LoC from the Indian Exim bank, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration was hoping to create a thriving health tourism industry locally with the construction of a Specialty Hospital.

However, the project quickly found itself in much controversy causing the then Government to end a contract with the Indiabased contractor Surendra

Engineering in 2014, citing instances of alleged fraud and delays. The Donald Ramotar-led regime subsequently filed a lawsuit against the firm for failing to honour its obligations.

Guyana is yet to recover close to $1 billion from that company.

While in Opposition, both the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) had strongly opposed the Specialty Hospital Project and upon its assumption to office in 2015, the coalition had decided to scrap the project, which had already expended some US$4.2 million on certain preliminary works.

However, after some convincing by the Indian Government, the coalition Administration hesitantly proceeded with the project, handing it over to another India-based contractor, Fedders Lloyd to complete using the remaining US$13.8 million. But a few months later, that company was blacklisted by the World Bank until 2020, forcing the project to a standstill once again.

Following this, the APNU/AFC Administration got the US$18 million LoC written off, with the Indian Government taking the remaining funds and an agreement was signed for Guyana to only pay back the money that was already spent. This paved the way for the new LoC for the upgrade of the primary healthcare system.

12

tuesDAY, april 3, 2018 | guyan

G

Scores of Guyanese turned up at the seawall, despite it being contaminated, in Georgetown for the traditional kite flying

This little girl could not be any more eager to get her patriotic kite up in the air

These young girls having a little trampoline fun

uyanese from all walks of life turned out in their numbers on Monday to celebrate the resurrection of Christ or Easter as it is commonly known.

Despite the heavy downpours in the early morning hours which enveloped almost the entire country, the midday and afternoon hours breathed life into the popular areas where hundreds of kite lovers turned up to celebrate Easter 2018. While some were interested in showcasing their one-of-a-kind designs, others were there just to get a glimpse of the heart-warming spectacle and kaleidoscope of colours.

At the seawall, along which the Atlantic waves break on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD), many kite lovers took advantage of the prevailing ocean breezes to display their magnificent creations. Very popular this year was the bird kite which was capable of enduring the light showers in the latter part of the day. Some also took the liberty of introducing prevalent Soca music to the festivities, which resounded with those in attendance, making them even livelier.

Noel Holder, a spectator who came out to witness the celebrations, related to Guyana Times that the holiday was indeed a great one.

“We came out in the afternoon after the rain and it was a great one this year,” he revealed.

At the National Park and the Joe Vieira Park, the atmosphere was more of a family-oriented one as many engaged in picnics and other family-filled experiences in keeping with the Easter theme. Children, all decked out in their festive outfits, accompanied their parents to learn the techniques used in flying kites.

A vendor at the National Park, who used the holiday as an opportunity to further his livelihood, noted that there was a reasonably good turnout of individuals this year.

“Throughout the rain, we see people stepping in and more will step in later. It hasn’t been that bad. It was a good turnout,” he stated.

Meanwhile, in Linden, the con-

stant m ened to observa Demer less, L numbe partici and fu improv dren, a friends areas ganza.

Ove Centre ers too ternoon tions a ever pr and lis from la Thi a few experie "Th though come o to fly k for me ters to the bir had sm an rem "I t cancell clear u we're j the mo Denisia As noon s also ap tractio popula Guy able to includi and a signs. D familie the aft holiday gether Fro was sa hinder Guyan

One of the many families who opted for an Easter Day pinic at the Joe Vieira Park on the West Bank of Demerara Persons lined the beaches along the Essequibo Coast in the afternoon

Opposition MP Irfaan Ali and his wife were flocked by family and friends at the Everest Cricket Ground with a contingent from Trinidad

The clear skies on Monday afternoon allowed families on the East Coast of Demerara to line the seawall at Ogle

This fam

3, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

alks of r numlebrate Easter

ours in ich enountry, hours lar arte lovEaster sted in nd deto get a g specurs. ich the e East many of the display . Very rd kite ng the part of liberty a music ounded making

r who elebraes that at one. ernoon eat one

the Joe re was one as d other eeping ren, all outfits, o learn kites. l Park, opporod, notly good ear. ee peostep in It was

he con-

t

13

stant morning showers also threatened to put a damper on the Easter observances in Region 10 (Upper Demerara- Berbice), but, nevertheless, Lindeners came out in their numbers at various locations to participate in the annual kite flying and fun activities. As the weather improved by mid- afternoon, children, along with their families and friends, flocked the more popular areas for the kite-flying extravaganza.

Over at the Bayroc Community Centre Ground at Wismar, kite lovers took advantage of the light afternoon winds. Other side attractions and fun activities were also ever present, as families picnicked and listened to music which blared from large speakers.

This publication caught up with a few Lindeners who shared their experience.

"The Easter wasn't bad, although we had rain. People still come out and bring out their kids to fly kite and enjoy the Easter. As for me, I bring out my two daughters to fly kite even though one of the bird kites didn't go up, they still had smiles on their faces," one woman remarked.

"I thought Easter would've been cancelled today, but the weather clear up good this afternoon. So, we're just going to enjoy and make the most of the rest of the day," Denisia Liddell told this newspaper.

As kites filled the clear afternoon skies, the famous "bird kite" also appeared to be the biggest attraction this year in Linden with popular cartoon character designs.

Guyana Times was, however, able to spot some unique designs, including the “I love Guyana” kite and a few unique 'box board' designs. Despite the morning showers, families were able to get together in the afternoon. As is customary, the holiday appeared to bring people together from all walks of life.

From the turnout this year, it was safe to say that the rain did not hinder the celebration of Easter the Guyanese way.

Persons in Linden took advantage of the clear skies to get their kites up at the Bayroc Community Centre Ground in Wismar

Proudly showing off their larger-than-life kite

These kids showing off their kites in the National Park

The National Park was bustling on Monday afternoon despite the dark skies

National Cyclist Alanzo Greaves assisting his son with his kite

This little girl trying to catch a gust of wind to get her kite up A family trying to get their kites up on the seawall on Monday afternoon

This family from Trinidad having an Easter camp-out in Guyana

Persons lined the East Coast Seawall on Monday afternoon following a rainy morning

14 NEWS

tuesDAY, april 3, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Bartica well underway to becoming ‘a clean, ‘green’ town’ – President mental works that have been taking place in Bartica.

“This is a great and big change for us here in Bartica; this boardwalk. We feel different. It’s less crowded and confusing out here, and cleaner; and we welcome all of the infrastructural works.

This is a real change in 2018 from the time I have been living in Bartica, and I defi-

However, he noted that it is his desire to see the participation of the villages in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni region.

“Regatta is moving from a local festival to a global festival. I want to see more participants from all over the region all coming to make this a more massive festival.

Let’s have swimming, canoe-

but I am having a blast. It is absolutely a great environment and great people and lots of sun, so it’s a great day for racing. When I got the opportunity to come and see, my wife and I decided to come, and it is fantastic; and I wish many more people could come out and see this,” he said.

Nazir Baksh, who is vis-

President David Granger giving brief remarks at the commissioning of the new boardwalk on the Golden Sands Beach in Bartica

W

hile commissioning Guyana’s first boardwalk, on Sunday at the Golden Beach in Bartica, capital town of the Cuyuni-Mazaruni Region Seven, President David Granger charged the mayors and town councils across the country to follow the lead of the town of Bartica in its pursuit of initiatives which not only promote the ‘green’ agenda, but add to the aesthetics of the environment.

Commissioning of the boardwalk -- lighted by solar electricity and having a number of seating areas -- drew the usual large crowd, there for the annual Bartica Easter Regatta, and President Granger said the facilities Barticians are now enjoying should be replicated across Guyana.

“Bartica is dear to my heart,” he said. “You are now a town, something that should have happened more than 100 year ago; but it is

now irreversible and unchangeable, and you can look around and see the changes that the Town Council has made in two brief years.

“Mayor [Gifford] Marshall and his Deputy set out to establish a clean, ‘green’ and safe town, and they are well on their way to achieving that objective. This is a model, and I wish that every other town should emulate this example. Most of (the other towns) are waterfronts, and this is a joy to see. Bartica is a model, and I am vindicated in making Bartica a town and giving Bartica the name, ‘a clean, ‘green’ town’,” the President said.

Mayor of Bartica, Gifford Marshall, in his remarks, said the Mayor and Town Council is working assiduously to ensure that it achieves the mandate of becoming the first ‘green’ town in Guyana and the Caribbean. Importantly, too, he said Bartica has a role to play in tourism in Guyana

if it continues on its current developmental trajectory.

“Bartica can become the tourism capital of Guyana.

We are working to ensure that our true potential is met. We are working to ensure that we enforce a ‘green’ agenda. We are working to ensure that there is a good life for all. Let us continue to work for the development of our town; and, most importantly, let us work for a better Guyana.

“We have unveiled our first boardwalk. Next year we will (add) an extension, and His Excellency will declare open the extension.

These projects are here to show not just what we can do, but (they are) a pillar of development. It places us on the centre stage of the Caribbean and the world,” Mayor Marshall said.

Bartica resident Roxanne Jardine, in an invited comment, said that, like the Head of State, she, too, is pleased with the develop-

President David Granger interacting with visitors and residents of Bartica at the annual Easter Regatta

nitely look forward to seeing more changes in the near future,” she said.

Commissioning of the new boardwalk was done on the sidelines of the annual Bartica Regatta, and in referencing that event, the Head of State posited that the sport has continued to grow from year to year, with it now become a national and international event.

ing, boat racing, and all the other water sports we have,” he suggested.

Mr. Rod Henson, Country Manager for ExxonMobil Guyana, who is in the region to partake in the festivities, said he is impressed with what he has seen so far, even as he noted that he was encouraged by friends to go to the event.

“This is my first time,

iting Bartica with his family from Canada, said that while it is his first time, he, too, is impressed with what he has seen over the weekend.

“It is my first time in Bartica. It’s really good. We are enjoying this; the seating and the accommodation, the boardwalk… We are definitely encouraged to come back,” he said.

Sand Creek beauty wins Miss La Penitence Market vendor Rupununi Rodeo 2018 title shot to head trying to ward

off bandits from robbing wife

L

(From left to right) First runner-up Samara Melville; Miss Rupununi Rodeo 2018, Shanelle Thomas; and second runner-up Subrina Albert.

S

eventeen-year-old Shanelle Thomas of Sand Creek, South Rupununi, one of six beauties vying for the annual Miss Rodeo Queen title, has been crowned Miss Rupununi Rodeo 2018.

An aspiring nurse, Thomas won the rodeo pageant on Friday evening at the Takutu Hotel in Lethem, Region Nine, in front of hundreds of patrons who had gathered to witness the annual event which forms part of the Rupununi Ranchers’ Rodeo festivity.

Miss Sand Creek won the hearts of the audience with her confidence and eloquence even from the introduction segment of the pageant, as she strutted out in her long booths and cowgirl hat. This Sand Creek resident is fluent in Wapishana, enjoys bird watching and horse riding, and loves to eat fried tasso (beef) and farine.

The highlight of Friday night’s event was the ‘cowgirl wear’ segment, wherein the young ladies displayed their vaquero outfits. Samara Melville

Miss Rodeo Queen 2018, Shanelle Thomas

of Parishara and Subrina Albert of Karasabai, respectively first and second runners-up, dominated this segment with their stunning ensembles.

The other contestants represented Annai Village in the North Rupununi; Rokomuto, South Pakaraima; and Central Lethem.

The event was sponsored

by Banks DIH, the Guyana Oil Company, Shantel’s Exotic Creations, and Trophy Stall.

a Penitence Market vendor Doodnauth ‘Hardat’ Danrasi is battling for his life at the Georgetown Public Hospital, after being shot to his head on Easter Monday reportedly while trying to ward off four armed bandits from robbing his wife, Meena Danrasi, in the vicinity of Twin’s Drug Store on Saffon Street, Georgetown.

Based on reports received, the now seriously injured man, a resident of Winsor Forest, West Coast Demerara, had a scuffle with at least four armed men who had relieved his wife of her apron containing over $100,000.

The four armed men reportedly appeared at the market under the pretext of purchasing fruits and vegetables, but instead held the woman at gunpoint. Upon realizing what was happening, ‘Hardat’ reportedly went to his wife’s rescue, and one of the men discharged a round that hit him to the temple.

Seizing the apron containing the money, the bandits then escaped on two motorcycles.

An eyewitness told media

operatives that the shooting incident occurred at about 17:30hrs, when there were not a lot of people at the market. She said ‘Hardat’ was advancing towards the armed men a knife in his hand when he was shot.

“There were four of them, no mask… people say that one of the constable know one of them; and it look like since yesterday them de targeting... I de done pack up, and is when I hear the screaming and meh husband tell me to run….,” she detailed.

She said Hardat intervened while the bandits were about to rob his wife, Meena Danrasi. “They told her (to take off her apron) and she decided not to give (it) up.

Her husband had a knife, and (he) tried to defend her,

and told them, ‘Lef de woman! Lef de woman!’ and they shot him.”

She said she cut her apron from off her body with a knife and dashed the apron in a corner. She said the constables who rushed to the scene tried their best to deter the bandits, taking into consideration that none of them was armed. The unarmed Constables tried their best by screaming for help.

“No one was around to help, so the man them just collect the apron with the money and run on them bikes and ride way”, the woman added.

After the bandits had left the scene, the injured man was rushed to the hospital.

His condition, according to reports, is listed as serious.

NEWS

15

TuesDAY, april 3, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Bartica Regatta “one of Elderly EBD woman missing 1 week now the biggest ever” – Mayor A T

here has been a “vast increase” in persons visiting this year’s Easter Regatta in Bartica, Mayor Gifford Marshall has said.

The annual event took place over the Easter weekend. The mayor said this year’s Regatta is a step in the right direction towards growing Bartica’s tourism potential.

“What we see happening this year is a demonstration of us coming together and working for one purpose; and that is: for a successful 2018 Regatta,” the mayor said.

Thousands of Barticians and visitors alike witnessed the powerboat races -- feature events of the Regatta -on Sunday and Monday. The annual Miss Bartica Regatta and Road Jam, which were held on Saturday, were also

Racer Dave Scott

the boat, you could get fun with the jet-ski, you could swim, you could just come and lime. There’s a lot of things you can do,” Scott said. Visitors and residents

Scores gathered at Golden Avenue Beach to take in the Regatta festivities

main attractions over the weekend.

Overseas-based Guyanese Headley Woodley and his family returned home to enjoy this year’s Regatta. “So far…my first experience. I love it!” he said, adding that he is willing to return.

Powerboat Racer Dave Scott performed superbly in the races, taking the checkered flag twice on Sunday.

He noted that the Regatta has something for everyone.

“You could get fun with

alike took advantage of the variety of activities.

There were those who were engrossed in the races, while others were out with families, flying kites and soaking in the sand and sun on the newly constructed boardwalk along Third Avenue Beach. Others were enjoying the entertainment under the pavilion.

President Granger officially commissioned the boardwalk on Sunday. The Golden Beach Development Project cost some $40 mil-

lion, and Mayor Marshall said the project will be expanded in the coming year.

“Our aim is to ensure that, over the next two/ three/four/five years, the next time patrons come visit the Bartica Regatta, it must have something different,” he said.

Among those enjoying all that the Regatta had to offer was Bhaskar Sharma.

The publisher and journalist from Canada was a first-timer to the Regatta. “It’s amazing, it’s a sight. I believe that this thing should be promoted in the diaspora,” he said.

Team Manager of the Regatta Committee, Holbert Knights, said his team has successfully hosted “tremendous activities” leading up to the Easter weekend features.

“We’ve had sports; our football had a record crowd; we had a top model segment at Aruwai [Resort] that was really good, too. We have a very, very strong team,” Knights boasted.

Region Seven Chairman Gordon Bradford has commended the Bartica Business Development Association for successfully staging this year’s Regatta.

“Regatta is a national event now, and we hope that with the Bartica Business Development Association, they can make it into a true international event,” Bradford said.

92-year-old woman of Vanquick, SoesdykeLinden Highway, has been reported missing for over a week, and her friends are seeking the public’s help in locating her.

Elsie Dickson, of Lot 191 Vanquick, SoesdykeLinden Highway, East Bank Demerara (EBD) was last seen on March 18, 2018 by a son of her friend.

Dickson was discovered missing around 13:00h on Tuesday when a man who sells groceries to her knocked on her door, but received no response.

According to her neighbour, Rural Constable Walvis Hinds, the woman, who has no children, lives alone.

Hinds reported that a woman who looks after Dickson’s pension sent her son to take vegetables to her on Sunday afternoon.

The young man was reportedly sent by Dickson to do some errands after which he left.

On Tuesday, when the

Elsie Dickson

grocer got no response, Hinds proceeded to check Dickson’s home, but she was nowhere to be found.

“She’s a pensioner and there’s a bus that does bring grocery in the village and she does normally order thing and when they come, she would just pay them and collect she things. When they come, they would knock at the house and she would come out, so when they de knocking and she ain’t coming out, they ask me if she

sleeping deep and I seh `no, she usually don’t’,” Hinds said.

Checks were also made in the woman’s yard, but she could not be found.

“We didn’t see any footsteps or anything, and the house was just normal, normal. Up to now, we ain’t hear anything from anyone and we don’t know where she gone,” the man said.

Dickson is reportedly in good health and is said to be capable of taking care of herself.

Contact was made with a niece of the woman, but to no avail.

“Her niece called me and while talking to her, the phone cut off and she never called back,” Hinds reported.

As such, a report was made to the Timehri Police Station, and the Police are investigating.

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Dickson can contact Hinds on 678-0319 or 678-4501.

“Guyanese Girl Code” gets overwhelming response

T

he Guyanese Girl Code programme, which was introduced by the Public Telecommunications Ministry in collaboration with the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD) last month, has received an overwhelming response from the target audience, which is girls between the ages of 11 and 15.

The programme, which is meant to encourage and nurture the technological strengths of adolescent girls who already show a propensity for the field, is expected to expand to accommodate more participants interested in coding.

According to Outreach Coordinator Donnella Collison of the Public Telecommunications Ministry, the programme, which initially catered for

Outreach Coordinator Donnella Collison

20 girls, has received applications from more than 50 young ladies who are excited to be part of the initiative.

“Since we received so many applications, we are now looking at a way to do more sessions to expand and take in more girls who want

to code.”

Guyanese Girl Code is a free 12-week pilot project that will teach girls in First to Third Form (aged 11 to 15) beginners’ coding/ programming. The one requirement for entry into this starter programme is that all applicants must be proficient computer users, familiar with basic software and programmes.

Generally, coders/programmers are the innovators in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry, the technicians who create new software, applications, and websites, etc. Their work parameters are limitless. Communication technologies are employed in every industry on this planet, from fashion to heart surgery, agriculture and oceanology.

WPO recognises the work of former President Janet Jagan

T

he Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO) paid tribute to former President, the late Janet Jagan by way of a wreath-laying ceremony on the occasion of her ninth death anniversary on Friday last.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo was the guest speaker at the event, which was held at Babu Jaan, Port Mourant, Corentyne.

The Chicago, US-born Janet Jagan served as President of Guyana from December 19, 1997, to August 11, 1999. She was 77 years old when she succeeded her husband, Cheddi, after his passing, becoming the first female President of Guyana. She previously served as the first female Prime Minister from March 17, 1997 to December 19, 1997.

Jagan was awarded Guyana’s

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo along with members of the WPO at the wreath-laying ceremony on Friday

highest national award, the Order of Excellence in 1993, and the Mahatma Gandhi Gold Medal for Women’s Rights in 1998.

She also served as a Member of Parliament and as Minister of Home Affairs, Labour, Health and Housing.

In 1963, Time magazine described her as “the most controversial woman in South American politics since Eva Peron”, partly because she was a “strident Marxist” who many believed was the “brains and backbone” behind Cheddi’s Government.

Addressing the hundreds at Babu Jaan, former President Jagdeo referred to the late leader as a fighter. He said the challenges we face today were nothing compared to what she experienced.

“Cheddi Jagan and Janet Jagan in the darkest days never lost hope, they kept our party intact, they kept their minds focused and changed this country.

They fought for independence and got it, and then for the return of democracy, and so, the challenges we face now are nothing compared to what they faced, so we in this generation should not lose focus,” Jagdeo stated.

Nevertheless, Jagdeo called on the women present to take up more active roles in the Party while advocating for more women to join the WPO. He said women in the PPP have an enormous role to play.

Meanwhile, he urged the WPO to set a target of getting to 5000 members.

16

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesDAY, april 3, 2018

Regional

Costa Rica President-elect Carlos Alvarado calls for unity

C

arlos Alvarado, who has won Sunday’s presidential election in Costa Rica, has called for unity after a divisive election campaign.

The centre-left candidate won by a surprisingly wide margin over his evangelical rival, Fabricio Alvarado (no relation).

With more than 95 per cent of votes counted, Carlos Alvarado had a 21.5 percentage point lead.

He called on other parties to join him in a government of national unity.

Polls conducted ahead of the second round of voting on Sunday had put the two candidates neck and neck, and Carlos Alvarado’s unassailable lead early on Sunday was unexpected.

In his victory speech, given on Sunday night in front of hundreds of supporters in the city of San Pedro, the ex-Government Minister

President-elect Carlos Alvarado is a former Government Minister and novelist

said that Costa Ricans could now “go to sleep reassured because there is a result, a decision and now we’ll unite to take this country forward”.

He also said that he had already received a “brotherly call” from his rival, Fabricio Alvarado, congratulating him.

The battle between Fabricio Alvarado, an evangelical pastor who had won the first round of the election on the back of his Opposition to same-sex marriage, and Carlos Alvarado, who backs its legalisation, had been fierce. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Bermudan held with cocaine at Sangster Airport – Police

A

3 1 - y e a r - o l d Bermudan was Sunday arrested and charged after he reportedly attempted to board a flight destined for Belgium with a suitcase containing cocaine at the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, St James.

Paulos Francis of Loyal Hill, Denishire, Bermuda

has been charged with possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine and attempting to export cocaine.

Reports are that about 17:00h, Francis checked in at the airport and attempted to board the flight when detectives from the Narcotics Division searched his suitcase and found a false compartment.

A rectangular shaped parcel, containing white powdery substance resembling cocaine, weighing approximately three and a half kilograms was seized. The drug has an estimated street value of US$4,375,000.

Francis is scheduled to appear before the St James Parish Court on Friday.

(Jamaica Observer)

St Lucia’s PM to deliver budget statement today

Prime Minister Allen Chastanet

P

rime Minister Allen Chastanet will today outline the fiscal policies of his Administration for the 2018-19 period in an address his office says is aimed at building a resilient St Lucia and setting the island on the path to sustainable growth.

According to the statement from the Office of the Prime Minister, Chastanet will review the progress made by his Government last year, especially as it relates to alleviating poverty

and improving and building resilient industries.

It said he would also continue to expound on the key areas of focus for the Government which includes creating sustainable employment, improving justice and security and re-engineering social services.

Chastanet, who is also the Finance, Economic Growth, Job Creation, External Affairs and the Public Service Minister, presents the EC$1.4 billion (One EC dollar=US$0.37

cents) budget statement, a few days after the debate on the Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure ended in the Parliament late last month.

“The public will be updated on Government’s policy direction and sustainable programmes for the year ahead and on how Saint Lucia is being placed in a position to adapt, recover and succeed,” the statement noted.

Last year, Chastanet presented an EC$1.5 billion package in his first-ever budget to Parliament with a promise to pursue an aggressive pro-growth strategy, so as to return confidence and prosperity to the country.

He said then that tackling the national debt which stood at EC$3.2 billion would be a priority for his Administration as for far too long successive Governments have only paid lip service and allowed the problem to get worse.(Excerpt from

CMC)

Mexican Government says discussed migrants with US Homeland Security Secretary

M

exico’s Interior Minister said on Monday that he spoke to the US Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen, agreeing to work together to study how to best address the flow of migrants.

“We agreed to analyse the best ways to attend to the flows of migrants in accordance with the laws of each country,” Interior Minister Alfonso Navarrete wrote in a post on Twitter.

US President Donald Trump lashed out against

US Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen speaks with Mexico's Interior Minister Alfonso Navarrete Prida before delivering a joint message in Mexico City, Mexico, March 26, 2018

Mexico on Sunday, writing on Twitter that the Latin American country was do-

ing little to stop the flow of migrants into the United States. (Reuters)

Former T&T Security Minister backs probe into Cambridge Analytica

F

ormer National Security Minister Gary Griffith has backed the decision of the Trinidad and Tobago Government to investigate whether or not the Britainbased political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica (CA) had undertaken a project there involving harvesting the data of this country's population.

Last Wednesday, Attorney General Faris AlRawi told Parliament that a whistle-blower, Christopher Wylie, had told United Kingdom lawmakers that the company, combining data mining, data brokerage, and data analysis with strategic communication for the electoral process, had undertaken the work in 2013 under the former People’s Partnership administration headed by Kamla Persad Bissessar.

“Madam Speaker, this Government will do all in its power to investigate this very important matter. To unearth whether the rights of the citizens of

Former National Security Minister Gary Griffith

Trinidad and Tobago have been infringed and to hold all such persons responsible for breaches of the law of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago properly accountable,” Al-Rawi said.

In a statement, Griffith, who served as a National Security Minister in the Persad-Bissessar Administration, said that he welcomed any investigation into alleged works

by Cambridge Analytica in Trinidad and Tobago.

“That if what is alleged is true and certain individuals used State funds to pay for political campaigns and contracted an agency to be involved in committing illegal acts, then by this investigation, these individuals would be exposed and brought to justice,” he said.

Griffith said that it was also necessary to ensure the reputation of Trinidad and Tobago.

“The image of our country has been affected internationally all because one man with a bright pink hairstyle decided to make any investigation accusation and it has become a reality by some, without any evidence being brought forward, and only by the words of that one individual. So if it is not true, then it must also be exposed to clear our nation's reputation.”

Last weekend, the Congress of the People (COP) party, a partner in the coalition People's Partnership Government, said it too welcomed the probe. (Excerpt from CMC)

Criminals clone credit card of Jamaica Top Cop

A

44-year-old businessman, who used the credit card belonging to Police Commissioner Anthony Anderson to pay for his son’s school fees, is due to re-appear in court on May 1.

A local radio station reported that Earl Hobins had his bail extended when he appeared before the St Andrew Parish Court last Thursday.

He had been charged by the Fraud Squad after J$83,000 (One Jamaica dollar=US$0.008 cents), procured through the illicit use of Anderson’s credit card, was used to pay his son’s school fee at a prominent high school.

Police said that members of a criminal network had cloned the credit card of the Top Cop and had stolen

Police Commissioner Anthony Anderson

more than one million dollars from his account over a one-week period.

The investigations began last month and the Police are working on a theory

that two people, including a woman created two cloned cards which have been used to purchase appliances, vehicle parts and personal items. (CMC)

TuesDAY, april 3, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

Around the World

Winnie Madikizela-Mandela dies at 81

S

outh African anti-apartheid campaigner and former First Lady Winnie Madikizela-Mandela has died aged 81.

She and her former husband Nelson Mandela, who were both jailed, were a symbol of the country’s anti-apartheid struggle for three decades.

However, in later years, her reputation became tainted legally and politically.

Crowds of mourners and political figures flocked to her home in Soweto, in Johannesburg, after news of her death broke.

Family spokesman Victor Dlamini confirmed earlier on Monday that Mrs Mandela “succumbed peacefully in the early hours of Monday afternoon surrounded by her

South African anti-apartheid campaigner and former First Lady Winnie Madikizela-Mandela

family and loved ones” following a long illness, which had seen her go in and out of hospital since the start of the year.

Mrs Madikizela-Mandela

was born in 1936 in the Eastern Cape – then known as Transkei.

She was a trained social worker when she met her future husband in the 1950s.

They went on to have two daughters together.

They were married for a total of 38 years, although for almost three decades of that time they were separated due to Mr Mandela’s long imprisonment.

It was Mrs MadikizelaMandela who took his baton after he was jailed for life, becoming an international symbol of resistance to apartheid. She too was jailed for her role in the fight for justice and equality.

To her supporters, she became known affectionately as “Mother of the Nation”.

In a televised address President Cyril Ramaphosa – whom Mrs MadikizelaMandela praised earlier this year – called her as a “voice of defiance” against white-minority rule. (Excerpt from

BBC News)

Israel suspends new relocation deal for African migrants

I

sraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday he was suspending a new agreement with the United Nations refugee agency to relocate thousands of African migrants, as rightwing pressure mounted on him to scrap the deal.

17

Hours after announcing the new arrangement, which would also give thousands of other migrants the right to stay in Israel, Netanyahu posted a message on his Facebook page saying he was putting its implementation on hold until further review.

The fate of some 37,000 Africans in Israel has posed a moral dilemma for a State founded as a haven for Jews from persecution and a national home. The right-wing government has been under pressure from its nationalist voter base to expel the migrants.

According to the agreement, about 16,250 of about 37,000 African migrants, most of them from Eritrea and Sudan, would be relocated to Western nations while others would be allowed to stay in Israel. (Excerpt

White House criticises China for US$3B tariffs on US imports

T

he White House has criticised China after it imposed retaliatory tariffs against the United States on a range of goods, including pork and wine.

Beijing has introduced duties of up to 25 per cent on 128 American imports following President Donald Trump’s decision to slap tariffs on steel and aluminium.

China said the move was intended to safeguard its interests and balance losses caused by the new US tariffs.

US stock markets plunged on Monday, amid fears the dispute will escalate.

In its statement, the White House accused Beijing of “distorting global markets”.

“China’s subsidisation and continued overcapacity is the root cause of the steel crises,” spokeswoman Lindsay Walters said.

“Instead of targeting fairly traded US exports, China needs to stop its unfair trading practices which are harming US national se-

curity and distorting global markets.”

The back-and-forth reflects rising tensions between the US and China, which President Trump has described as an “economic enemy”.

The US has taken two major steps recently that have triggered tension with China.

On March 8, it announced global steel and aluminium tariffs saying the measures were necessary to protect US producers and critical to national security. (Certain allies such as Canada, Mexico and the European Union, are in line for exemptions, pending talks.)

China challenged the US use of national security to justify the tariffs and announced retaliatory tariffs on US$3 billion worth of US products.

Those tariffs went into effect on Monday, targeting US goods including frozen pork, nuts, fresh and dried fruit, ginseng and wine. (Excerpt from BBC News)

‘Affluenza’ teen Russian Foreign Minister accuses West released from jail from Reuters)

of ‘children’s games’

R

ussian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has accused the United Kingdom and Western partners of playing “children’s games” in their response to the poisoning of ex-spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter.

He accused countries of “disregarding all accepted behaviour” and resorting to “open lies and disinformation”.

Twenty-nine nations have expelled diplomats over the poisoning, which the UK holds Russia responsible for.

Lavrov also issued fresh denials at the news conference on Monday.

Sergei Lavrov also suggested last month’s poisoning could be in the interests of the British government

He made the comments in response to a question by the BBC’s Steve Rosenberg about how dangerous growing tensions were between Russia and the West in com-

parison with the Cold War. “In the classic Cold War,” Sergei Lavrov said, “there were rules and accepted behaviour”.

“I think our Western

partners, I think firstly Great Britain and the USA and a few other countries that blindly follow them, have disregarded all the accepted behaviour.”

During the news conference he also suggested the poisoning could be “in the interests of the British Government” because of the “uncomfortable situation” they had found themselves in with Brexit.

“There are other explanations. The experts are speaking about them. They say it may well be beneficial for the British special services who are known for their ability to act with a licence to kill.” (Excerpt from BBC News)

A

young Texas man who initially avoided jail time in a deadly drink-driving case by invoking “affluenza” has been released from jail after two years.

Ethan Couch, 20, made headlines in 2013 when his lawyer blamed “affluenza”, arguing his client was too rich and spoiled to tell right from wrong.

Couch was found guilty of drink-driving, which left four people dead.

He initially avoided prison and was given probation.

He was later jailed when he violated his sentence.

Couch will now serve six years of community supervision, his lawyers Scott Brown and Reagan Wynn said after his release on

Monday.

“From the beginning, Ethan has admitted his conduct, accepted responsibility for his actions, and felt true remorse for the terrible consequences of those actions,” his legal team said in a statement.

“Now, nearly five years after this horrific event, Ethan does not wish to draw attention to himself and requests privacy so he may focus on successfully completing his community supervision and going forward as a law-abiding citizen,” the lawyers’ statement continued.

In 2013, a youth court sentenced the then 16-yearold to 10 years of probation for the 15 June 2013 crash which killed four people.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Elephants loose on 7 dead in massive India caste protests motorway in Murcia, Spain S

F

ive elephants forced the closure of a motorway in south-eastern Spain after escaping from a crashed vehicle.

One of the elephants died from injuries that it sustained, while two others were hurt, local Police say.

The injured animals had to be lifted by a crane from the carriageway.

The incident occurred on Monday afternoon in the town of Pozo Cañada near Albacete in the Murcia region. The driver of the truck

involved in the crash was not injured.

The vehicle is believed to be a circus lorry.

The director of the government department responsible for Spain’s road transport network, Gregorio Serrano, posted a video of the elephant evacuation to social media.

Local police in the Albacete released photos showing three of the five elephants milling around in the lanes of the motorway after the accident. (Excerpt from BBC News)

even people have died amid violent protests involving tens of thousands of protesters from the Dalit (formerly untouchable) community across India.

They have taken to the streets to protest against a Supreme Court order that they say weakens a law designed to protect lower caste communities.

Train services have been affected and some main roads have been blocked in a number of states.

The federal Government has asked the court to review its decision.

In its ruling, the court

A Supreme Court ruling has triggered the massive protest in India

had said that the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, popularly known as the SC/ST Act, had been “mis-

used” in the past.

Caste violence continues to be a problem in the country. More than 40,000 crimes against lower castes

were reported in 2016 alone, according to official statistics.

Dalit leaders said the ruling made them feel “vulnerable”.

“The SC/ST Act ensured the protection of Dalits in India by making any discrimination against our community a punishable offence.

With this new Supreme Court order, these legal obligations have ended. We’re all sad and shocked,” said KP Choudhary, the general secretary of an all-India association for lower castes.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

tuesDAY, april 3, 2018

ARCHIE

The more you take on, the more you’ll be taken for (March 21granted. Consider how to best April 19) spend your time. Personal gains should be your focus.

ARIES

Working alongside others TAURUS is highlighted. Be willing to (April 20- give your all and to get things May 20) done. It’s up to you to make your wishes and standards clear.

dilbert

A change at an establishGEMINI (May 21- ment you frequent or where June 20) you work will lead to questions as well as an interest in how you can benefit from what’s happened.

Make changes to your appearance or social circle.

(June 21- Getting out and experiencing July 22) what life has to offer will give you a renewed outlook on life, love and happiness.

CANCER

Peanuts

Keep your life simple and LEO your plans moderate. Too (July 23- much of anything will cause a Aug. 22) shortage of cash. You may desire change and excitement, but you must consider the expense or consequences.

Calvin and Hobbes

Take part instead of sitVIRGO ting on the sidelines. Offer (Aug. 23your point of view and ideas Sept. 22) for bringing about change.

If you don’t participate, you have no right to complain.

Partnerships will go LIBRA through some changes if you (Sept. 23Oct. 23) cannot agree on important personal or financial issues.

Charm will help, but practicality is required.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

TODAY’S WORD — IMPARTS (IMPARTS: im-PARTS: Makes known; discloses.)

Go over your tax reSAGITTARIUS turn and look for any mis(Nov. 23take that could cost you or Dec. 21) cause you trouble. Don’t let a change made by someone else stifle your plans.

Average mark 35 words Time limit 40 minutes Can you find 45 or more words in IMPARTS? The list will be published tomorrow.

TUESDAY’S WORD — TEXTILES test text tile tilt title elite else exile exist exit ilex

isle islet istle lees lest lexis list settle sextet silex silt

site sleet slit steel stele stet stile stilt

RULES OF THE GAME: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed. 3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” is not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed. To contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe, write to Word Game, Kathleen Saxe, Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

Copyright 2015, Distributed by Universal Uclick for UFS

Look for obscure and inSCORPIO teresting information at (Oct. 24your library or on the inNov. 22) ternet, and spend time with people who can offer you a different point of view or lifestyle.

Puzzles

Take a unique approach CAPRICORN (Dec. 22- to the way you do your job.

Jan. 19) Handling money matters with profit in mind will help you balance your budget and offset extravagance.

Your creative ideas will AQUARIUS entice you to take on too (Jan. 20- much. Consider what’s possiFeb. 19) ble and only plan to do what you know you can do well.

Your involvement in a PISCES (Feb. 20- cause or group will be helpMarch 20) ful, but it doesn’t have to be costly. Donate your time, skills and experience instead of cash. Reunite with an old friend.

tuesDAY, APRIL 3, 2018

Azam, Talat help Pakistan thrash Windies, seal series

Pakistan were dominant yet again with both bat and ball. © AFP

A

significant difference in quality between teams isn't like jetlag; it doesn't wear off in 24 hours. Pakistan turned in another dominant performance in the second game,

as they had in the opener on Sunday, thumping West Indies by 82 runs to take an unassailable lead in the three-match series. An unbeaten 58-ball 97 by Babar Azam powered Pakistan

to their highest ever T20I score, two more than yesterday's 203. Hussain Talat, Man of the Match on Sunday, more than played his part in a 119-run partnership with Babar, smash-

Stannard ‘heartbroken’ to miss Commonwealth Games James Stannard would have been participating in his third Commonwealth Games

A

ustralia's rugby sevens captain James Stannard says he is "heartbroken" to be ruled out of this month's Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast after being punched outside a kebab shop in Sydney.

Stannard sustained a fractured skull in the incident last Friday.

A 22-year-old British man has been charged in connection with the incident.

"I'm not angry," said Stannard, 35, who

would have been competing in his third Commonwealth Games.

Stannard, who is planning to retire from rugby at the end of the season added he feels "very lucky to be here".

He said his priority was to "rest and get right for the family" but he would try to support his team-mates at the event.

Stannard was on a night out with his fellow Australia players and the team's management when the incident occurred.

ing 63 off 41 balls.

Fakhar Zaman fell early to a sharp bouncer from Rayad Emrit, but it wasn't going to prevent the bowlers from copping relentless punishment. The fielding

by West Indies was well below par again. Like replays from the first game, fielders on the boundary let simple pick-ups slip through their fingers for fours. Under pressure from a confident, ruthless Pakistan batting line-up, the bowlers' lengths went haywire.

A side that has won 16 of its last 19 T20Is now, Pakistan's batsmen were getting help they didn't need. Even more poignant was the lack of self-belief with which West Indies carried themselves. At one point, they barely appealed for an lbw that, on review, saw Babar saved by inches on the umpire's call.

Pakistan would be encouraged by the cameo Asif Ali played, because it bodes well for the future of their power-hitting. Long bemoaned as a striking weakness in Pakistan's game, Asif, whose penchant for big sixes came to light in the recently-concluded PSL, showed he could be the solution. It was only 14 off 8 balls, with one six, a bottom-hand jab off the back foot, would have caught batting coach Grant Flower's eyes, who singled him out as an exciting prospect from this year's PSL. The only disappointment for Pakistan in the first innings was Babar's failure to get to his hundred. Incredibly, Ahmed Shehzad's 111 against Bangladesh is still the only time a Pakistan batsman has scored a century. Babar had his chance in the final over, but his timing deserted him. Kesrick Williams hit his lengths and varied his pace well enough to keep the ball away from Babar, but his hunger, undimmed so far, bodes well for Pakistan.

West Indies, in response, avoided the catastrophe of the first game, but it was clear within a few overs that the result would be the same: a comfortable win

for Pakistan. The asking rate, over 10 at the start of the innings, stifled West Indies before the chase had even begun, and other than Chadwick Walton, no top-order batsman looked even close to being up to the task.

West Indies scored only 30 runs in the Powerplay, and though they had lost only one wicket by then, the required rate had already ballooned to almost 13.

Once Shadab Khan cleaned Walton up - with a beautiful flipper - he had scored 40 of his side's 50 runs, it was only about how many Pakistan would win by.

Mohammad Amir found his lengths and hit his yorkers often. Hasan Ali was his usual wily self and Shadab was lethal and potent.

Pakistan hadn't let the lack of competitiveness dim their intensity, keen to drive home the advantage as much as possible. Amir looked especially sharp; the yorker that castled opposition captain Jason Mohammed worth waiting for even in the back-

19

Babar Azam celebrates his half-century

drop of rather dull cricket.

His disguise of the slower balls was also world-class as he finished with figures of 4-0-22-3.

West Indies mentally checked out of the game well before it officially ended, the point epitomised in the 18th over. Emrit cut Amir to the boundary, wide enough of third man to allow the batsmen to comfortably run two.

Williams on the other hand, never so much as looked at his partner, and both batsmen found themselves at one end. Emrit didn't even bother looking back, never breaking his stride as he jogged back to the pavilion.

Hasan and Talat picked up the final two wickets to seal the demolition, as West Indies were bowled out for 123, just about more than double their total from the first match.

SCOREBOARD

Pakistan Innings (20 Overs Maximum) Babar Azam not out 97 Hussain Talat c Mohammed b Smith 63 Asif Ali c Walton b Williams 14 Shoaib Malik not out 17 Extras 8 (lb 2, w 6) TOTAL 205-3 (20 Overs, RR: 10.25) Did not bat: Sarfraz Ahmed (c) †, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz(3), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Amir, Hasan Ali Fall of wickets: 1-11 (Fakhar Zaman, 1.4 ov), 2-130 (Hussain Talat, 13.6 ov), 3-167 (Asif Ali, 16.6 ov) Bowling: KMA Paul (4-0-34-0), RR Emrit (4-0-47-1), S Badree (3-0-26-0), KOK Williams (40-43-1), OF Smith (4-0-401), R Powell (1-0-13-0) West Indies Innings (target: 206 runs from 20 overs) CAK Walton b Shadab Khan 40 ADS Fletcher b Mohammad Naw az 1 MN Samuels c Asif Ali b Shadab Khan 12 JN Mohammed (c) b Mohammad

Amir 15 D Ramdin † c Hasan Ali b Hussain Talat 21 R Powell c Babar Azam b Mohammad Amir 3 KMA Paul c Faheem Ashraf b Mohammad Amir 17 RR Emrit run out (Faheem Ashraf/†Sarfraz Ahmed) 1 KOK Williams b Hasan Ali 1 OF Smith c Mohammad Nawaz b Hussain Talat 6 S Badree not out 2 Extras 4 (lb 3, w 1) TOTAL 123 all out (19.2 Overs, RR: 6.36) Fall of wickets: 1-11 (ADS Fletcher, 2.1 ov), 2-50 (CAK Walton, 8.1 ov), 3-57 (MN Samuels, 10.1 ov), 4-92 (D Ramdin, 14.6 ov), 5-94 (JN Mohammed, 15.3 ov), 6-107 (R Powell, 17.1 ov), 7-113 (KMA Paul, 17.4 ov), 8-114 (RR Emrit, 17.5 ov), 9-115 (KOK Williams, 18.1 ov), 10123 (OF Smith, 19.2 ov) Bowling: Mohammad Nawaz(3) (4-0-19-1), Mohammad Amir (4-0-22-3), Hasan Ali (4-033-1), Shadab Khan (4-0-232), Faheem Ashraf (2-0-11-0), Hussain Talat (1.2-0-12-2)

20

Khabib Nurmagomedov has never lost in the UFC octagon

O

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

tuesDAY, APRIL 3, 2018

n Sunday night, it was announced that interim UFC lightweight champion Tony Ferguson had injured his knee and was ruled out of his UFC 223 main event bout with Khabib Nurmagomedov.

"Tony Ferguson hurt himself. He tore

Holloway steps in to face Nurmagomedov after Ferguson injury his LCL," UFC president Dana White told ESPN as he confirmed the news.

"Apparently it's an injury you don't need surgery on, but he actually tore it off the bone. He's going to need surgery on his knee."

Sadly, it wasn't a April Fool's Day joke. The news has robbed UFC fans of one of the most compelling UFC match-ups for the fourth time.

Ferguson and Nurmagomedov were originally set to face each other at The Ultimate Fighter 22 Finale in December 2015, but a rib injury to the Russian forced him out of the contest.

The UFC rebooked the pair four months later at UFC on FOX 19, but on that occasion it was an injured Ferguson who was ruled out of the bout.

The pair were then matched to meet in an interim lightweight title clash at UFC 209 in Las Vegas, but Nurmagomedov suffered health issues during his weight cut and was pulled from the fight on medical grounds.

Now, with the news that the UFC's fourth attempt ended in another injury withdrawal, fans are beginning to wonder if

the Ferguson-Nurmagomedov match-up is cursed.

Holloway steps up, and steps in However, all is not lost, as the UFC's undisputed featherweight champion Max Holloway has gamely agreed to step up a weight class on just six days' notice and take on the undefeated Nurmagomedov for lightweight gold.

The Hawaiian is riding a 12-fight win streak, including back-to-back TKO finishes of Brazilian star Jose Aldo as he captured the UFC’s 145lb title.

Now the popular 26-year-old is stepping up to lightweight for the first time in his career to face the 25-0 phenom Nurmagomedov, who has torn through the UFC’s lightweight division since his arrival, winning all nine of his bouts inside the octagon.

And White confirmed that the winner of the bout would walk away as the undisputed UFC lightweight champion, with the title departing the waist of two-weight champ Conor McGregor in the process.

"As soon as these guys step in the ring and throw a punch, it's on for the title," he confirmed to ESPN. "And whoever wins, wins the title and we'll see what happens with Conor over the next several months. I know he had expressed some interest in fighting in

UFC’s undisputed featherweight champion Max Holloway September."

Now UFC fans around the world will be crossing fingers and toes that both Holloway and Nurmagomedov both make weight, then make it to the octagon in one piece.

2nd-placed Cardiff grab late draw at Sheff Utd in Championship

Permaul ruled out of Pakistan L series

W

est Indian bowler Veerasammy Permaul has been ruled out of the remaining T20Is against Pakistan after suffering an ankle injury during the opening match on Sunday.

The 28-year old twisted his ankle while bowling against Pakistan in the first T20I at Karachi’s National Stadium on Sunday. He had to be stretchered off the field and was taken to a nearby hospital for tests.

“The results show no fracture in his ankle but confirm muscle rupture which requires at least a week to recover,” said an official of Pakistan Cricket Board attributing Jimmy Adams – Cricket West Indies’ director.

Pakistan outclassed a depleted West Indies by 143 runs in the first of three-match T20I series by a mammoth margin of 143 runs. The teams meet today in the second T20I and on Tuesday for the third and final match.

Permaul will remain with the squad and there is no replacement being called in his place, which means the touring squad is now curtailed to 12 players. (KARACHI)

eon Clarke's deflected effort gave the Blades the lead, before Pilkington struck a minute into injury time.

Cardiff have opened up an eightpoint gap on third-placed Fulham in the Championship.

However, Neil Warnock's side missed out a 71-year-old club record-equalling ninth successive win.

Leon Clarke's first-half strike looked to have made it an unhappy return for Warnock to his boyhood club, but substitute Pilkington struck in the 91st minute to maintain Cardiff's 13game unbeaten league run.

United are ninth are in the table, one point outside the play-off places.

Warnock managed the Blades from 1999-2007 and took them to the Premier League in 2006.

John Lundstram could have given the hosts the lead inside the first two minutes, but his headed effort from six yards out lacked power and was straight at keeper Neil Etheridge.

Cardiff's first chance came when Marko Grujic's shot from outside the box was deflected towards goal by Kenneth Zohore, but the striker was ruled offside and Blades keeper Simon Moore always had it covered.

Leon Clarke of Sheffield United puts the ball past Cardiff City goalkeeper Neil Etheridge to score Leon Clarke scores his first goal in 11 games for Sheffield United Clarke's first goal since New Year's Day gave the hosts the lead against the run of play just before the half-hour mark.

Lundstram played a neat ball into his feet and Clarke managed to get his shot away off Bruno Manga to breach the best defence in the Championship this season.

The Blades dominated the rest of

Leon Clarke scores his first goal in 11 games for Sheffield United

the first half, with the Bluebirds unable to get a foothold.

Cardiff brought on Gary Madine for Nathaniel Mendez-Laing for the second half and started with purpose.

Aron Gunnarsson beat two men down the right before firing across the face of goal.

Zohore got himself into the box moments later, but his shot was palmed over by Moore.

The hosts reasserted themselves as Wales international David Brooks' shot was bravely blocked by Etheridge after good work from John Fleck.

United substitute Clayton Donaldson was unlucky to hit the woodwork with Etheridge well beaten.

United also had a shout for a penalty when Lee Evans claimed to have been clipped by Manga in the penalty area.

Cardiff did not look like scoring until the ball fell nicely for substitute Pilkington, who fired the ball into the bottom corner from the edge of the area.

Cardiff City boss Neil Warnock

"When you equalise late on in a game like that, it's a fantastic feeling.

It sets us up great for the small matter of Wolves on Friday.

"It's all about hanging in there and we showed a lot of guts and determination for that.

"Give our lads some credit for never giving in.

"I thought the subs did well when they came on."

Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder

"We haven't got the result we wanted, but not for the lack of trying.

"We should have accumulated loads more points over the last five games, we're playing well enough but the ball in the back of the net puts teams to bed.

"We try to play in a way that our supports enjoy... but in the end you've got to win and that decides the teams that are successful and the teams that maybe just fall out." (BBC Sport)

sports

CLASSIFIED ADS

21

Lindberg beats Park in play-off to win first major

tuesDAY, APRIL 3, 2018 | www. guyanatimesgy.com

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

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

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

EDUCATION

W

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

orld number 95 Pernilla Lindberg won her first major by beating South Korea's Inbee Park in an epic eight-hole playoff at the ANA Inspiration in California.

Swede Lindberg, 31, holed from 25 feet for birdie on the par-four 10th at Mission Hills Country Club, but seven-time major winner Park, 29, was unable to follow suit from 15 feet.

The play-off for the first women's major of the season was stopped after four holes on Sunday because of darkness.

"It felt like too big a dream to come true but it has," Lindberg told the Golf Channel.

Lindberg follows her caddie into the pond

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

property for sale Lot 15 Public Road, #2 Village, West Coast Berbice. 49ft x 10,314ft Length. $20M Neg. Contact: 6487109 or 697-4818 2-flat bedroom wodden building situated at 154 “B” Shell Road Kitty.

2 Lots east of Kitty Market. Tel: 6979418/6702653/2269548

SERVICES GUYANA TRANING COLLEGE FOR INTERNATIONAL SKILLS. TELEPHONE 227-4881 DAY&EVENING CLASS. *Train to live & work in CANADA / CAREGIVER *Care for Elderly *Care for Children.

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

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

Contact: 694-9569 or 683-5228

Pernilla Lindberg wore a bath robe when she received her prize after celebrating by jumping into the pond Mission Hills Country Club

Persaud, batsmen England’s hand Everest big win Tom Curran sign for IPL’s KKR

Sri Guru Raghavendra Astrology.

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

Tailoring Jimmy and Sons Tailor Shop ( Herstelling). We specialize in sewing of Gents Pants, ladies suit etc. We also do quality alternations (Jeans, Zip, Dresses, Skirts, blouses, etc.) Contact us on Telephone: 265-5033

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

TO LET 1 and 3 bedroom apartments in gated community Versailles West Bank Demerara. Tel: 2642946

Classified Ads $5+VAT per word

Call:

223-7230 Ext 50

surrounding the 18th green "I remember writing some goals in high school about the dream scenario to win a major and leave a mark in history.

"I've probably given my dad so many heart attacks over the last few days."

American Jennifer Song, who was also part of the play-off after finishing on 15 under, was eliminated after a par on the third extra hole.

Lindberg, whose previous best result at a major was a tie for fifth at the 2015 US Open, led for all four rounds of the ANA Inspiration.

England's Charley Hull finished in a share of sixth on 13th under.

Basil Persaud (right) collects the Man-of-the-Match trophy from Everest Cricket Club executive John Ramsingh

A

hat-trick from medium pacer Basil Persaud flattened Invaders Masters in their feature T20 match on Sunday against Everest Masters at the Everest Cricket Club (ECC) Ground.

Set a daunting 225 to win from 20 overs in ideal conditions, Invaders out of the Essequibo Coast were bowled out for 130 from 18.4 overs, falling short by 94 runs.

Persaud, who had a terrible start with the ball when he sent down 12 wides in two overs from the Carifesta Avenue end, made amends when he was switched to the seawall end.

In the seventh over, he

plucked out three batsmen in three balls to leave the visitors at 39 for 4 after a cautious start.

Ramesh Narine looked assured with an attractive half century off the quality bowling employed by the home side.

Narine hit two sixes and four boundaries before he was ninth out for 53.

Persaud finished with 4 for 19 to be named Man of the Match while Surrendra Hiralall (2 for 10 in 1.4) and Imtiaz Sadik gave valuable support for the Everest Masters, who just a day before beat Busta Enterprise Sports Club Masters by six wickets to start a marvellous weekend.

The victory was set up by the Everest Masters batsmen, who immediately went to work after Rajesh Singh won the toss.

Openers Sahadeo Hardaiow and Saheed Mohamed laid the foundation with a shot-filled opening century stand.

Mohamed was more attacking, and clobbered four sixes and eight fours in 75 from just 42 balls.

When he was dismissed at 137 for 1, West Indies legend Shivnarine Chanderpaul joined Hardaiow and they continued the assault.

However, after hitting three sixes and nine fours, Hardaiow perished for the t o p score of 77 from 37 balls at 174 for 2 before Chanderpaul and Rakesh Garbarran (9 not out) smoked 50 runs for the third wicket when the overs expired. Chanderpaul finished on 51 not out (6x3; 4x2) from 28 balls. Only Dubraj Singh (1-33) and Beesham Seepersaud (134) picked up wickets for the visitors, who won the opening match between the two sides in February in Essequibo.

With Everest Masters levelling the series, the decider becomes mouth-watering as both sides are confident of victory.

Trophies for the match were sponsored by the Rockaway Group of Companies of New York.

E

ngland and Surrey seamer Tom Curran will play for Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League.

The 23-year-old has been signed as a replacement for injured Australia pace bowler Mitchell Starc.

Curran has played for England's Test, one-day and Twenty20 sides this wint e r , claiming a first intern a tion-

al five-wicket haul in an ODI victory over Australia in Perth on 28 January.

Kolkata begin their season at home to Royal Challengers Bangalore on Sunday.

The IPL starts on Saturday and runs until 27 May. Curran said he was "thrilled and excited" to be joining Kolkata.

He added: "I know from chatting to other players I can learn a lot from being in that environment, skills that I hope will benefit Surrey and my chances of representing England again this year and if selected, for next year's World Cup." Curran is one of nine England players who will feature in this year's IPL. Left-armer Starc was ruled out of the competition with a stress fracture of his right leg.

Tom Curran has played two Tests, eight one-day internationals and six Twenty20s for England

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

tuesDAY, APRIL 3, 2018

Malta Supreme "March Madness" Open Final…

Pollydore leads Royals to title

F

ormer outstanding National Under-19 player Marlon Pollydore had a sterling shooting night as he planted five bombs from beyond the arc in a 30-point display, which effectively accounted for the Victory Valley Royals carting off their second successive championship win. This time, it was the final of the Linden Amateur Basketball Association’s Malta Supreme ‘March Madness’ Open basketball championship last Saturday night with a commanding 84-62 drubbing of archrivals Half Mile Bulls at the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) hard court.

Later named the Most

Valuable Player of the final, Pollydore steadied his side in the face of an opponent who had ended their 11-game run in the MSC Open Basketball league in December, but this time, despite their best player, Harold Adams, not having the best of nights and the absence of Chris Williams and Orlando Glasgow, the Royals proved too much for the Bulls. Without Travin “Babylon” Dryden to shore up their inside game and the exit of Michael Turner, Terron Welch and company were unable to stave off the rush by the Royals to win this title after playing unbeaten in the preliminary round like the Bulls.

Adams made his impact early to put his team up 17-12 when the first quarter ended in association with young Yannick Tappin and the experienced Alwyn Rodney giving them the guidance. Under the circumstances, Adams was satisfied with the addition of another young talented player, Daniel Lee, who also got into the act early on.

In the end, Lee scored 10 points, Rodney contributing nine, Tappin eight and Akali Moore added six in the Royals’ triumph.

While the Bulls were able to get their way against the Royals in their last matchup, the Royals would have none of it this time around

and after a 23-18 run in favour of the Linden champions to end the first half, the score was reading Royals up by ten, 4030.

This laid the platform for the Royals to ride home to another solid win despite the subsequent third-quarter exchange 13-12 and then finally 33-30, as they maintained their better showing to win 86-72.

The Bulls’ shooting guard, Welch after getting seven second-quarter points ended with just 13 in the game while Dillon Pellew netted 10 and Kevin Easton added seven with Emmanuel Larose and Vibert Benjamin each getting six points.

In t h e thirdplace playoff game, Amelia’s Ward Jets closed out the challenge from the Retrieve Raiders romping home 84-62 after leading at half time 3832 before a 23-6 stifling run

over the Raiders put the game beyond their reach.

Individual scores were not available for that game.

Jamaicans sweep sprint hurdles with 3 records J

amaicans set three championships records on their way to sweeping the gold medals in the sprint hurdles finals on today's final day of the 47th CARIFTA Games at the Thomas A Robinson stadium in Nassau, Bahamas.

Crystal Morrison broke Melaine Walker's record in the Under 17 girls' final, Vashaun Vascianna broke Wilhem Belocian's mark in the Under 17 boys' while Amoi Brown retained her Girls' Under 20 title whole breaking the record set by another Jamaican Samantha Elliott.

Orlando Bennett won the Under 20 boys' 110m hurdles gold to complete the sweep as Jamaica won sev-

en medals in the four finals.

Morrison ran 13.11 seconds (1.7m/s) to break the 13.51 seconds set by Walker in 1999 as another Jamaican Ackera Nugent was second in 13.35 seconds with Barbados' Sarah Belle taking the bronze in 13.55 seconds.

Vascianna clocked 13.60 seconds (1.9m/s) beating the 13.75 seconds set by Guadeloupe's Belocian in 2011 to win the Under 17 boys' 110m hurdles, another first and second for Jamaica as Jahvel Granville, a gold medallist in the 4x100m relay, was second in 13.77 seconds with The Bahamas' Raymond Oriaki taking the bronze in 13.94 seconds, his third medal of the weekend.

Shiann Salmon (right), who clocked a championship record of 56.22 seconds to win the Girls' Under 20 400m hurdles at the Carifta Games in the Bahamas on Sunday, poses with teammate Sanique Walker, who finished second in 57.97

Brown retained her title in the Under 20 100m hurdles final after clocking 13.15 seconds (1.0m/s) under the 13.42 seconds set in 2010 by Elliott.

Dazsay Freeman was second in 13.39 seconds, also under the old time with the Bahamas' Sasha Wells taking the bronze with 13.44 seconds. Stennett had to come from behind over the last three hurdles to catch the fast starting Jeanice Laviolette of Guadeloupe, to win in a wind-aided 13.25 seconds (3.0m/s) to 13.52 seconds with the Bahamas' Oscar Smith third in 13.57 seconds.

The second Jamaican Brithon Senior was fifth in 13.76 seconds. (NASSAU, Bahamas)

East Bank Table Tennis Club hosts C/ships T

h e East Bank Tennis Club hosted its second junior and PreCadet Table Tennis championships over the Easter weekend, which was aimed at providing competition among the developing

players in the d i s trict.

Over t h i r t y players participated in the four-category competition held at the club’s facility at Juju Place, Grove.

The Club is slowly developing its talents, having had an exchange programme with Linden and

the second East Bank championships, all kudos to Coach Candacy Mckenzie, who is making a difference.

Results: Boys’ 11yrs

In the boys’ 11 years and under category played in a four-player round-robin format, Aaron Fraser played unbeaten to emerge the champion. He defeated Joshua Persaud 11-6, 118; Andron Fraser 11-9, 118; and Rayfield Hillaman

11-9, 11-7.

Hillaman emerged in second position with wins over Joshua Persaud (11-4,11-6) and Andron Fraser (11-5, 11-7); Joshua Persaud finished third with a lone win over Andron Fraser (11-6, 11-9).

Boys’ 13yrs

In semi-final action, Christopher Barrow defeated Rayfield Hillman 3-0 (11-4, 11-5, 11-4) while Aaron Fraser defeated Justin Weekes (11-9, 10-

12, 11-9).

Christopher Barrow emerged champion when he defeated Aaron Fraser to win the boys’ under-13 title.

Boys’ 15yrs

In final action, coming off of his C Class win at the GTTA LFS Burnham TT championships, Curtis Mc Crae defeated Christopher Barrow 12-10, 11-9, 11-7 in a close three sets to claim the title.

Girls’ category

In the much-vaunted Girls 13-year category, national cadet player and Caribbean Cadet bronze medallist Nkechi Mc Crae emerged the champion when she defeated all comers and her clubmates Tatyana Mohamed, Rozana Saunders and Rachel Saunders in straight sets.

Second place went to Mohamed, who defeated Saunders 11-7,11-9, 11-8.

tuesDAY, APRIL 3, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

Football development hindered but progressing

G

uyana Football Federation (GFF) President Wayne Forde has stated that while efforts are being made to develop the sport locally, there was still much more that needed to be done in order to make it on the international stage.

In an invited comment, Forde explained that development may appear slow owing to a number of ‘hurdles’.

“Guyana’s football has several hurdles to overcome before we get anywhere close to competing with the formidable nations throughout the world,” Forde stated. He then went on to highlight the areas that were posing a challenge. “Look at

some of the basic tools that are needed for football to thrive: facilities, certified coaches, youth tournaments, grassroots programmes, those are several challenges before us.”

Over the past two years, the current administration of the GFF has invested time and energy into implementing grassroots programmes and youth development. Forde disclosed that the Federation has put several initiatives in place for these programmes such as a nationwide academy system where they were working with patrons to identify local talent and expand their presence in the hinterland communities as a means

of scouting. Collectively, these programmes are expected to not only build the player population but also to develop skilled and professional athletes.

“The Federation itself cannot move football at the pace it needs to be moved to catch up with the rest of the world and the rest of the region,” the Federation President stated, explaining that the onus of development was not left up to the Federation alone; however, this is sometimes the case.

In the Federation’s view, one of the largest hurdles is the lack of high standard facilities. In explaining their plight, Forde noted that they have noticed Governments

GTTA names squad for Caribbean PreCadet C/ships

T

he newly-elected executive committee of the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) has named a squad with a view of selecting the final representatives for the 2018 Caribbean Pre-Cadet Table Tennis Championships scheduled for July 2018 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

The squad, a very formidable and talented one, includes the likes of 2016 Caribbean Cadet

Champion Kaysan Ninvalle; 2017 International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Caribbean World Hopes qualifier selectee Krystian Sahadeo; Nkechi Mc Crae; 2016 Caribbean bronze medallist Thuraia Thomas; Dhanesh Persaud; Colin Wong; and new and emerging talents Jasmine Bilingi, Akera Watson, Quanna Torrington, Samara Sukhai, Tatyanna Mohamed and Roseanna Sanders.

The others are Jonathan Van Lange, Alexander DeAbreu, Jonathan Cox, and Chase Outar.

The Caribbean PreCadet Table Tennis Championships is a signature tournament on the GTTA calendar of activities, since it forms the incubator for development of young regional table tennis talent.

Of significance is that the Championships will be used to select the best two

Kaysan Ninvalle

Caribbean 13-years and under and 11-years and under boys and girls to participate in the Latin American World Hopes training and competition slated for later this year.

This would allow our players if selected to benefit from international training and exposure and if selected as part of the Latin Hopes team, to be given training exposure and equipment as an induction to the ITTF development programmes: ITTF Hopes, ITTF Rough Diamond and ITTF with the Future in Mind.

Ninvalle secured selection for Hopes training camp in 2016 when he won bronze in the Latin America qualification and training event. Sahadeo also secured qualification when he emerged second in the ITTF Hopes Caribbean training and qualification event in Jamaica 2017.

However, he was unable to attend the event due to visa constraints with Paraguay; Guyana’s other representative is Chelsea Edghill, who secured Junior Olympian participation.

The GTTA has commenced the implementation of its national table tennis for schools’ programme, which is part of its plan to synchronise with the ITTF Hopes programmes.

The executive committee will be meeting with the parents, coaches, and stakeholders to map out its plans for the team’s engagement at the Championships.

and foreign companies in the Caribbean and the w i d e r world investing in top-notch stadiums, a factor that is absent in the Guyanese arena. “We so far do not have that situation in Guyana and up until we get to that point, the pace of development will be regulated by the difficult circumstances before us,” Forde stated.

23

GFF President Wayne Forde

GFF Elite League III…

Stalemates from top seeds

I

t was not much of an exciting weekend of football as the top ranked teams of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League III battled to stalemates, which saw the statistics being little affected on the points table.

On Saturday, Cougars defeated New Amsterdam United 2 -0 while in a strange turn of events, Milerock were gifted a walkover victory compliments of Ann’s Grove who currently sit in the cellar position.

Cougars and NA United played to a goalless first half, then Devon James scored in the 60th minute to put his side ahead.

It was made a two-possession game in the fourth minute of Injury and stoppage time as Dane Johnson found the back of the

net.

Cougars have now won their first match and are on the table with three points while NA United sit above them with only a superior goal difference.

Milerock’s walkover victory gained them three welcomed points as they moved on to nine and sit in seventh position behind Buxton United (10 points).

On Sunday, it was a double header of see-saw shifting matches that saw all four teams come away with a point each.

Tournament leaders Western Tigers played to a nil-all draw with fifth-place Victoria Kings while defending Champions GDF romped to an identical draw with second-place Fruta Conquerors.

T&T retain

Regional U-19 Girls’ title

A

half-century from opener Shania Abdool propelled Trinidad & Tobago to an eight-wicket victory over Windward Islands to lift the Cricket West Indies-sanctioned Regional Under-19 Girls’ Invitational Twenty20 Tournament title on Sunday.

Abdool struck half-dozen boundaries in an unbeaten 57 from 54 balls to earn the Player-of-the-Match award and lead T&T successfully past a victory target of 93 with 34 balls remaining in the Grand Final at the National Cricket Centre.

She dominated a first wicket stand of 54 before fellow opener Djenaba Joseph and Alysha Gomez fell cheaply, and remained to carry the hosts the rest of the way to their target, allowing them to repeat as title-holders.

Earlier, Windwards, sent in to bat, were restricted to 92 for nine from their allocation of 20 overs with no batsman reaching 20.

Leandra Ramdeen was the most successful T&T bowler with 3-11 from her allotted four overs.

At the nearby Gilbert Park, Guyana followed up steady batting – led

by Shakiba Gajnabi and Casey Charles – to post a 55-run victory over Barbados in the Consolation Final to finish in third place.

Gajnabi hit six fours in a run-aball top score of 48 and Charles collected five fours in 31 from 33 balls to lead the Guyanese to 130 for six from their 20 overs, af-

ter they chose to bat.

The pair shared 68 for the fourth wicket, but no other player reached double figures.

Though they kept wickets in hand, the Barbadians never seriously challenged the asking rate and never came close to overhauling their target, as no batsman reached 20.

tuesDAY, aril 3, 2018

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Persaud, batsmen hand Everest big win Pg 21

Ramesh Narine (right) hands over the winning trophy to Rajesh Singh of the Everest Masters

Pg 19

Azam, Talat help Pakistan thrash Windies, seal series GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, News Hotliine: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Sport: sport@guyanatimesgy.com Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 SALES AND MARKETING - lezas@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.