Guyanatime 3 march 2018

Police recruits undergo P14 mental health workshop

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

Issue No. 3491

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Saturday, March 3, 2018

PRICE

Sugar sector

NICIL puts Wales estate land, machinery on the market Overtopping, breached sea defence cause massive flooding on WCD/EBE

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Page 7

6 bandits P15 decend on Potoko Creek ranch; steal livestock, other valuables ... 2 dead, 2 apprehended, 2 at large

Page 2

Oil and gas sector

Building, utilising local content imperative to moving sector forward P9

Decomposed body fished out of creek

P8

A hugh wave overtops the sea defence structure at Uitvlugt, causing flooding to many communites along the West Coast of Demerara

Region 6 RDC calls for AFC Councillor to P5 resign Gold sector

P9

Training must precede codes of practice – urges mining syndicate ‌elects first female President

Jagdeo demands answers on shady $50M forestry project

Page 3

2 NEWS

saturDAY, march 3, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Overtopping, breached sea defence cause massive flooding on WCD/EBE …house, fences flattened

By Kizzy Coleman

R

esidents largely from the West Coast of Demerara (WCD) and those living within a small section of the mighty Essequibo

River’s eastern bank (EBE) found themselves on Friday morning under floodwaters as a result of high tide overtopping and breaching the sea defence.

Reportedly following an

extended period of ominous high tides on Thursday, the waters began pummelling the seawalls at about 14:00hrs, and overtopping during the night and into Friday morning.

Alarmed residents of Zeelugt’s Atlantic Ocean front on the East Bank Essequibo

(EBE), like their counterparts at Meten-Meer-Zorg, Zeeburg, Uitvlugt, Stewartville, Leonora and Cornelia Ida on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD), were forced to move to higher ground, in some instances leaving their homes for safety.

Mountainous waves of the

Massive waves assailing Uitvlugt, WCD on Sunday morning

restless Atlantic Ocean hit the seawall with such crushing force as to cause a large part of this sea defence structure to break away; and one house reportedly came crashing down as the Atlantic’s waters came rushing invasively into the beleaguered communities, flattening a number of fences and destroying bridges, electrical appliances and furniture in some homes.

Poultry and cash crop farmers in the affected areas are now also left counting their huge losses as the flood

able to drain the water from the Leonora medical facility.

However, its personnel lent assistance with the handing out of sandbags in the area.

Meanwhile, Opposition Member of Parliament Irfaan Ali visited the affected residents and sought needed intervention by regional officals.

Ali, who is the PPP regional MP, has since called for urgent intervention by the Government, to have resources available for residents. He told this publication that a number of persons livelihood

This section of sea defence could not withstand the pummelling of the angry Atlantic waves

waters lay siege to their communities.

Ishar Bassier, a poultry farmer of Zeeburg, WCD, told this publication he was out of the area at the time of the flooding, but was nevertheless alerted to the situation. He said that by the time he had returned home, it was too late to save anything from the ravages of the flood.

“I hurry up because my neighbour called me and tell me that I need to come and move my chickens. She say that the place flooding away.

But by the time I reach hey, everything -- all of the chicken them -- I find floating in the water dead. This hey hurt me bad! I didn’t prepare because I didn’t know that this would

has been affected and would need financial assistance to return their lives to normalcy.

N e i g h b o u r h o o d Democratic Council (NDC) is working on an assessment of the damages that would be completed today to be sent to the Government.

Additionally Minister within the Public Health Ministry, Dr Karen Cummings, and a team from the Public Infrastructure Ministry and officials from the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), visited the affected areas, including the flooded hospital, to further assess the situation and distribute supplies of sandbags.

The Leonora Police Station has also been affected. This

The Leonora Cottage Hospital has been inundated

have happened,” the shocked and distraught man relayed.

Guyana Times was told that patients seeking medical care at the Leonora Cottage Hospital (LMC) had to be referred to the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH) at Vreed-en-Hoop because the Leonora facility has been inundated.

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) at Leonora, whose facility was also flooded, had to be called in, but was un-

publication was, moreover, informed that the Zeeburg Secondary School has also been heavily affected by flood waters.

When this publication visited Uitvlugt, it was met with the shocked and distraught faces of affected residents.

One resident disclosed that she was awakened from sleep at about 02:00h on Friday but loud noises coming from the seawall area.

Turn to page 7

news

3

saturDAY, march 3, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, March 3 – 05:00h-06:30h and Sunday, March 4 – 05:00h-06:30h.

Jagdeo demands answers on shady $50M forestry project

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, March 3 – 05:20h-06:50h and Sunday, March 4 – 06:00h-07:30h.

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

WEATHER TODAY

Weather: Cloudy skies with light rain showers can be expected throughout the day, with partly cloudy skies expected in the evening. Overall temperatures are expected to range between 21 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Between East North-easterly and Easterly and North-easterly between 1.78 metres and 5.36 metres.

High Tide: 05:30h and 17:48h reaching maximum heights of 2.80 metres and 2.83 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 11:22h and 23:42h reaching minimum heights of 0.40 metre and 0.42 metre respectively.

wednesDAY, february 28, 2018

LOTTERY NUMBERS O

01

02

03

04

11

25

12 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2018

DAILY MILLIONS 07 09 10 12 LUCKY 3 0 8 8

7

Afternoon Draw DRAW DE LINE

04

06

09

15

10

1

9

Evening Draw

11

16

21

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

T

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

he recent announcement of an impending public private partnership in a consolidated Dimension Stockyard has caught the attention of the political Opposition, who are demanding answers on whether due process will be followed.

During a recent press conference, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo urged that Government come clean on the specifics of the project for which the coalition had allocated $50 million in its 2018 Budget.

“As part of this culture of secrecy, we don’t know what’s going on. It’s very murky… we just read these headlines and gloss over them… $50 million public private partnership to implement dimension stockyard.”

Jagdeo noted that allocations are already in the budget the projects implementation. As such, he questioned exactly who the government’s partner in the project will be. He also queried the process used to select the partner.

It was reported in the state media a few days ago that according to the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) Board of Directors 2017 report, the $50 million that was allocated in Budget 2018 to establish a Dimension Stockyard will go towards a public private partnership model.

This, the report noted, was in an effort to strength-

en the capacity of Guyana’s forest sub-sector to adapt to sustainable production practices. The report had ob-

quirements from the Private Sector.

“The facility will be housed in a central accessible location or perhaps one of the industrial sites. This initiative was actually proposed by the Private Sector as an initiative to improve growth in the sector,” the report stated.

“The funds will be used to set up the regulatory framework of the facility, the governance and administrative structure, site preparatory activities, inclusive of minimal capital equipment and marketing effort,” it added.

The Directors’ report underscored that the facility will also consolidate and facilitate the trading of wood products. The facility will also assist in creating a sec-

on acquiring and managing a forest concession as well as those operators focused only on downstream processing and value adding,” the report stated.

In Budget 2018, measures such as exemption of Value Added Tax (VAT) on logs and rough lumber came accompanied with a budgetary allocation of $50 million to partner with the Private Sector to establish a consolidated dimensional stock yard.

The forestry sector was one of several industries which showed a decline in the Finance Ministry’s 2017 half year report. The forestry industry showed an 18.2 per cent contraction in the first six months of 2017, compared to the same peri-

The forestry sector was one of several industries that showed a decline last year

served that obtaining quality raw materials (lumber) in sufficient quantity and dimensions are difficult.

“The quality of locally produced lumber is not at the level to make it very competitive both locally and internationally. Only a few operators are producing lumber at the desired quality level,” the report noted.

Further, the GFC 2017 report had stated that the consolidated or dimensional stockyard is intended to bridge the gap while the Public/Private Sector initiative will be managed by an oversight body.

It was noted that the facility will in no way compete with the Private Sector as there will be no price disadvantage or compulsory re-

ondary market for tropical wood products in Guyana.

“This will be useful for operators in the forestry sector who do not wish to take

od in 2016.

Declining production within the forestry industry was due to structural changes in the industry.

4

guyanatimesgy.com

saturDAY, march 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

Breakdown in family structures

O

ver the last four decades, developing Caribbean countries have been struggling to maintain law and order within their respective territories while simultaneously causing a reduction in the increasing levels of crime and criminality in their societies which pose the most serious threat to their forward movement and the notion of national security.

While these countries have all approached the subject matter differently, most of them have failed in addressing the root causes of crime and criminality so much so that their judicial systems have become ineffective and slothful in the dispensation of justice.

This is not as a result of poor management on the part of the judiciary or the lack of adequate resources in the form of magistrates or lawyers but can be directly attributed to a breakdown in the traditional family structures within our societies, the changing socioeconomic domestic and regional environment, the shifting of gender roles, the emergence of new complex gender identities and the changing dynamics of a world now driven by newer forms of Information and Communication Technologies.

While all of the abovementioned factors are important to any discussion on solving the proliferation of crime within our regional economies, many researchers and policy makers underestimate the role of males and boys in growth and sustenance of the Region’s crime problem.

In fact, little or no effort is made to reform our boy children to ensure that they are able to contribute in more meaningful, progressive and productive ways to the societies in which they live.

The truth is, most Caribbean men and boys are being poorly socialised and are many times not given enough attention during their early years of development at home, in school and within the wider society from adults who still arguably have the ability to mould them into right-thinking, right-acting and upstanding menfolk who are employable, educated and civilised men within their communities.

At an early age, boys within developing countries are told that they must be tough and the burden to provide for their families still falls on their shoulders despite the shifting gender roles and the advances made in gender equality. They are socialised to hide their weaknesses and sensitivities and to shun anything that even slightly appears feminine.

We must re-educate our boys, therefore, and change how they perceive the importance of an education despite the economic hardships and feminisation of this tool by the societies in which they dwell.

A renowned Jamaican educator, Wayne Campbell, offers a number of solutions for saving our boys and reducing their involvement in crime that could see them moving from not populating jails but universities and think tanks that arrive at solutions for male empowerment and the economic advancement of the entire family as a unit.

Campbell asserts that “there is also the need to urgently recast our current gender policy. One way of doing so is to incorporate more men in the discourse to shape our national gender policy. It’s ludicrous to think that women only, or a gender board dominated by women, can advocate the needs of our boys and men. We also need to examine the possibility of creating so-called ‘boy-friendly’ curricula, assessment and pedagogical practices. We now know that boys learn differently than girls and, therefore, we should use this knowledge to refashion teaching methodologies that speak to both sexes in the classroom.”

In Guyana, there is a need to view the issue of male underperformance and underachievement with a sense of urgency and dispatch, if not; we are going to continue to witness the spread of a deviant strand of hyper masculinity sweeping across the education system. This reconstruction of masculinity is already manifesting itself in all our schools. Our boys are wearing their school pants well below their waist and at times exposing their undergarments. Those boys who wear the correct uniform are teased and referred to as “old”.

Our boys have become more violent in recent years even to the point of physically abusing female teachers. Male teachers, over the years, have endured physical attacks from our boys; however, this new attack on the female teachers by our boys should be viewed as a wake-up call for school administrators and policymakers about the urgent need to rescue our boys.

In the spirit of Holi. Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo joined in the celebrations at the Indian Cultural Centre in observance of Phagwah 2018. In photo, these youngsters took the opportunity to rub powder on Jagdeo, as they enjoyed ushering in spring

Cash-strapped M&CC $20M celebrations ludicrous

Dear Editor, The very thought that the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown is even considering splurging $20 million on itself under the guise that it is hosting a week of activities to celebrate its anniversary is just revolting.

The members of the administration and/or the committee that came up with such a reckless proposal are evidently demented and not in touch with reality. They should be ashamed of themselves, and be condemned by those in authority at City Hall.

How on earth could a

municipality that is bankrupt; that is supposedly penniless; that constantly runs to Central Government for bailouts and other forms of financial assistance; that owes, as they say in Guyana, ‘Tom, Dick and HarryLall,’ even conceptualise such an idea.

It is at best ludicrous.

But the real question to be asked is: What does Georgetown have to celebrate? The collapsed wharf at Stabroek Market? The clocks at the various markets that do not work? The fact that the iconic City Hall is crumbling and falling apart? The rise in crime

around the municipal markets? The non-completion of the Kitty Market? The statutory rape of a minor and killing of a mentally ill man whilst he was in the custody of the City Constabulary?

They have done absolutely nothing to rejoice about.

It would seem that the only validation and rationalisation that the Mayor could advance for the hosting of this ostentatious merriment is that the event is something which was held in the past but had been stopped, and that the event could be likened to that of the annual town weeks of New Amsterdam, Bartica

and Linden. This reminds us of the pidgin-style saying: ‘Monkey see, monkey do’, which implies the act of mimicry, usually with limited knowledge and/or concern for the consequences.

How pathetic! Do the New Amsterdam, Bartica and Linden municipalities fail to remit workers’ contributions to the Guyana Revenue Authority or the National Insurance Scheme, leaving their workers without any sickness, injury or maternity benefits?

Sincerely, Modi Sankar

Why the differentiation now?

Dear Editor, No one should be surprised, not even the motion mover and seconder, by the recent and alarming declaration made by a senior politician and Georgetown City Councillor; who said that an Alliance For Change (AFC)sponsored no-confidence motion against the Town Clerk of Georgetown is likely to be defeated because A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Councillors were not properly consulted.

I have not, in a long time, heard such utter nonsense muttered by someone who ought to know better. Did the AFC and APNU not enter the Georgetown Municipality as a coalition party? Why the differentiation now?

Is this political elder and rabble rouser saying that

his party members who are Councillors are unable to vote with their consciences, but rather are shackled to toeing the purported party line at the expense of the city and its citizens? Come on, this is 2018, not the 1960s.

But the question to be asked is whether his declaration was made purely out of self- interest?

In the interest of readers’ awareness and understanding of what obtains at City Hall, and how immoral they are there, it should be noted that both gentlemen, the subject of the no-confidence motion and the Councillor who is advocating that the motion be defeated due to his and his colleagues not being properly consulted, are both members of the notorious ‘Fantastic Four’ or ‘Fabulous

Four’ gang, which has now become the ‘Terrible Trio’ or the ‘Terrific Triumvirate’ gang with the recent demise of one of their cohorts.

Let’s face it: whistleblowers are hardly lining up to rat out the mob. Not members of the clan, not ex-Mafiosi with a bone to pick, not victims of extortion rackets.

Why? Because of the ancient tradition of omertà, the unwritten code of honour that you’ll never utter a word about the family, or expect retaliation. Fear has, for decades, kept organised crime as a flourishing industry.

And everyone knows that the Georgetown City Council has, over the last two and a half to three years, become a gangsters’ paradise.

This brings us to the question that has been asked

for years now by members of the legal fraternity, and that is: if you encourage someone to kill, are you guilty of murder?

In the interest of the Town Clerk not being given a “Get out of Jail Free” card by some politicians for reasons best known to them, in spite of all of the well-known offences that he has committed, and which are prudently enunciated in the motion, I ask that all Councillors do as John Quincy Adams once said, and that is: “Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost.

Best regards, Sambu Jacobus

saturDAY, march 3, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

5

News

Region 6 RDC calls for AFC Councillor to resign

T

he Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne) Regional Democratic Council (RDC) on Thursday called on Alliance For

Change (AFC) Councillor Khousal Goberdan to tender his resignation as a regional councillor, because he sits as a counsellor while work-

ing as a contractor vying for projects in the region.

Regional Vice Chairman Dennis DeRoop has pointed out that a conflict-of-interest

The road to the ‘good life’ has become muddy Dear Editor, Public figures, especially politicians, are always in the public eye. The manner in which they conduct themselves is used as a tool to measure the level of respect and concern they have for the citizenry. Therefore, they are always expected to conduct themselves with decorum and a high level of professionalism, both locally and internationally.

It was therefore with a high level of dismay and shock that I viewed the video clip of Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan publicly denigrating a media operative during the course of the past week.

The minister’s public (and seemingly uncaring) display of arrogance in its most powerful form is reflective of his attitude towards the nation as a whole.

His angry outburst that he could “use expletives if he wants” and his uncouth chastisement of Mr Dennis Chabrol are indicative of the low level of respect he has for the media, and indeed the nation as a whole. He seemed not to care that cameras were focused on him, recording every word spoken and every gesture made.

This incident is a great embarrassment to the Granger

Administration, moreso since it involves one of its most senior Government functionaries – a Vice President and Public Security Minister at that.

This is just one in a continuous string of events in which Government officials have displayed their pride, arrogance and absolute power over the citizenry. It is an alarming trend, and no apologies have been made to the victims, despite many calls by NGOs and other public interest figures for such.

Government officials seem to think that Guyana belongs to them personally; the people are to be treated as they see fit and the country’s vast resources are at the disposal of their personal interests.

Self-indulgence and the propensity to wantonly spend

sums of money on meaningless projects with no long term gains have become the norm.

The right of citizens to be consulted on matters pertaining to their welfare has been tossed by the wayside, and arrogance, greed and corruption have become institutions in our beloved land.

The citizenry voted for the good life – a promise fervently made by the current administration during its election campaign -- one that was embellished with many fanciful illusions of grandeur for all.

The ‘road to the good life’ seems to be still under construction three years later.

I, like many Guyanese, do not believe it will ever see the light of day.

Sincerely, Vanita Mahadeo

situation has developed.

Goberdan was not present at the meeting when the issue was raised. However, two months ago, when councillor Zamal Hussain had raised the issue, he had mentioned that Goberdan had applied to become a pre-qualified contractor in Region Six. Goberdan had defended himself then by saying that he was not a contractor, and had only applied. The RDC had then decided that, based on Goberdan’s submissions, the issue could not be discussed.

However, on this occasion, the Regional Vice Chairman noted that during the People’s Progressive Party (PPP/C) regime, the

then main opposition entity, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), had criticized the administration for having the Black Bush Polder NDC Chairman Thakoor Persaud sit as a regional councillor when a member of his family was awarded a contract to clean canals in the polders. DeRoop said the precedent was set then.

Regional Chairman David Armogan has said that now that Goberdan is a pre-qualified contractor, his continuing to sit in the meetings of the regional council constitutes a conflict-of-interest situation.

Goberdan has a company -- SK Engineering of Lot 10 Lesbeholden North,

Black Bush Polder -- which he owns and under whose name he conducts business. The company is owned

by Khousal Goberdan, prequalified tor building, weeding and cleaning.

Some bids are given to pre-qualified contractors to tender for projects. This eliminates others from the bidding process and anyone referred to as pre-qualified.

In other instances, pre-qualified contractors are given emergency contracts without having to bid.

A source close to the AFC has said the party had discussed the issue with Goberdan and he reportedly agreed to resign from the council.

6

saturDAY, march 3, 2018

Page

By William Stixrud, Ned Johnson

O

ur friend Marie’s daughter Emily just entered kindergarten. Emily went to preschool, where the curriculum revolved around things like petting rabbits and making art out of macaroni noodles. Emily isn’t all that interested in learning how to read, but she loves to dance and sing and can play with Barbies for hours.

Emily’s older sister, Frances, was reading well before she started kindergarten, and the difference between them worried Marie.

Emily’s grandparents thought it was a problem, too, and hinted that perhaps Marie should be reading to Emily more often.

When Marie talked to another mom about it, her friend shared the same concern about her own two daughters, wondering if it was somehow her fault for not reading to her younger daughter enough. Would these younger siblings be behind the moment they started kindergarten?

This scenario drives us crazy because it’s grounded in fear, competition, and pressure, not in science or reality. Not only are parents feeling undue pressure, but their kids are, too. The measuring stick is out, compar-

guyanatimesgy.com

Foundation

ing one kid to another, before they even start formal schooling. Academic benchmarks are being pushed earlier and earlier, based on the mistaken assumption that starting earlier means that kids will do better later.

What was once advanced work for a given grade level is now considered the norm, and children who struggle to

keep up or just aren’t ready yet are considered deficient.

Kids feel frustrated and embarrassed, and experience a low sense of control if they’re not ready to learn what they’re being taught.

The fact is that while school has changed, children haven’t. Today’s five-yearolds are no more fundamentally advanced than their peers were in 1925, when we started measuring such things. A child today can

draw a square at the same age as a child living in 1925 (four and a half), or a triangle (five and a half), or remember how many pennies he has counted (up to 20 by age six).

These fundamentals indicate a child’s readiness for reading and arithmetic.

Sure, some kids will jump the curve, but children need

to be able to hold numbers in their head to really understand addition, and they must be able to discern the oblique line in a triangle to recognise and write letters like K and R. The problem is that while children from the 1920s to the 1970s were free to play, laying the groundwork for key skills like self-regulation, modern kindergartners are required to read and write.

Brain development makes it easier to learn virtually everything (except foreign languages) as we get older. Work is always easier with good tools. You can build a table with a dull saw, but it will take longer and be less pleasant, and may ingrain bad building habits that are hard to break later on.

One of the most obvious problems we see from rushed academic training is poor pencil grip. Holding a pencil properly is actually pretty difficult. You need to have the fine motor skills to hold the pencil lightly between the tips of the first two fingers and the thumb, to stabilise it, and to move it both horizontally and vertically using only your fingertips. In a preschool class of 20 we know of in which the kids were encouraged to write much too early, 17 needed occupational therapy to correct the workarounds they’d internalised in order to hold a pencil.

Think of it: 85 per cent of kids needed extra help, parents spent extra money, and parents and kids felt stressed because some adult thought, “Hey, wouldn’t it be swell if we taught these fouryear-olds to write?” without any regard to developmental milestones. (Excerpt from edutopia.org)

M

ost times your child is calm and sweet.

She climbs on your lap for another story; he easily shares his toys. But then there are those other times.

The biting, the screaming, the tantrums. The times you don’t know what to do.

You’ve probably already explored different ways of dealing with “bad” behaviour. Maybe you’ve seen short-term behaviour change, but have a sense there’s still something missing.

Hand in Hand’s

you practical tools that help you set needed limits while providing your child with the emotional connection he needs.

Parenting by Connection goes beyond systems of rewards and punishments.

The approach, workshops and resources all build on a child’s strong desire to love and be loved. We recognise that children are naturally good; they want to enjoy their life with you. With parenting by connection, you’ll use play, respect and warmth to help bring your family back to this natural state.

The parenting by connection approach will help you:

a challenging situation instead of reacting.

Respond instead of react

Parenting is a huge challenge. Just as your child acts out when he’s upset, the emotional stress of parenting can send you “off track” as well. Sharing helps you build concrete emotional support. Talking about your hopes and worries with a trusted listening partner can help you think through

To be continued

Resolve family challenges

When your child acts out, it’s stressful for the entire family. Whether it’s biting other children, shrieking in rage, or being too shy to make friends, your child’s off-track behaviour is actually a cry for help. We give

Be playful, loving and firm

Discipline doesn’t have to be harsh. Likewise, being a loving parent doesn’t mean simply letting your kids run wild. Bring play as well as necessary limits to your interactions. Nourish your parent-child connection with love, kindness and respect.

Create a bond that lasts for life

Parents report that parenting by connection works wonders during the early years. And, for the last decade, parents have shared how this approach has helped them maintain a close connection during adolescence and beyond.

(Handinhandparenting.org)

news

7

saturDAY, march 3, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Sugar sector

NICIL puts Wales Estate land, machinery on the market highest or any particular bid, the unit warned in their notice that tenders must be received by March 16, 2018.

GuySuCo is one of the largest landowners in Guyana, but is bogged down by billions of dollars in debt.

The current Government has been engaged in divesting the Corporation’s assets, putting the SPU in charge of this process and procuring international consultant PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC) to valuate GuySuCo’s assets.

Head of NICIL’s SPU, Colvin Heath-London

A

s the carving up of the Guyana Sugar Corporation’s (GuySuCo) assets continue, the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) has put thousands of acres of land from Wales, as well as machinery from various estates, on the market.

In a notice from NICIL’s Special Purpose Unit (SPU), it was indicated that bids were being sought for the purchase of Lots one to 12 and Lots 14 straight to 31 of Plantation Wales, West Bank Demerara.

The land in question is situated along the Eastern and Western sides of the West Bank public road and bidders can vie for as many of the lots on sale as they want. Noting that they are not bound to accept the

Scrap metal

In another notice, NICIL is inviting Expressions of Interest (EoI) for interested bidders to purchase scrap metal and equipment. Since the closure of the estates, there have been concerns about the maintenance of machinery worth millions within the factories.

The notice made it clear that bidders were only being sought to export the scrap metal and equipment from the Skeldon, Albion, Rose Hall, Blairmont, Enmore, Wales and Uitvlugt estates.

It also stressed that buyers would have to agree to purchase the items on an “as is, whereas” basis. This is a legal term, meaning NICIL absolves itself from any liability while buyers must agree to accept the equipment in whatever condition it is found, in order to conclude the sale.

“NICIL/SPU reserves the right to reject any or

The Wales Sugar Estate

all EoIs without assigning any reason whatsoever and not necessarily to award to the highest EoI,” the notice says, adding that EoI’s must be submitted before March 9, 2018.

The scrap metal trade was banned under the previous Administration and this trend has continued up to today. The ban on the scrap metal trade came about following persistent complaints about vandalism.

There were also issues regarding the management of the trade.

There have been intermissions, such as the three months reopening of the trade last year. It is, however, currently banned.

It was only last month, at the official launch of an association to advocate for the scrap metal trade and other exporters, that executives had been heavily critical of the continued ban on scrap metal and its turning a deaf ear to the plight of would be

Overtopping, breached sea...

“I hear this noise, and so I decide to get up and check outside. But when I put my foot on the ground, I realise that the place wet wet. So I get up and turned on my lights, and my heart sink, girl. My house inside had about one inch of water, and outside did look like a river, by was night time,” the distraught woman related.

Another resident, whose fence was damaged, said he was standing at his bridge when the fence started to shake. He explained, “I deh standing inside the water

watching what going on. I see my fence start to shake lil bit. Next thing I see, my fence fall in. I left stupid, I didn’t even realise is so strong the water did strong.”

Another high tide had been forecasted for 15:00h on Friday, and overtopping was again expected, along with flooding. The CDC team is expected to remain on the ground for the next high tide, to provide requisite assistance and guidance.

Residents of the affected areas are being advised to take all necessary precau-

From page 2

tions to safeguard their possessions, and to stay away from the seawall and sea dams during the high tide.

Residents should also avoid all unnecessary contact with flood waters.

Precautionary measures to be taken include moving all animals and poultry to higher ground; elevating furniture, appliances, electronic equipment and other valuables in lower flats; unplugging all appliances and electrical equipment in lower flats; and using sandbags around doors to buildings.

traders. The association had been explicit that the status quo of ‘Peter pay for all’ cannot continue.

Dozens of former traders were present at the launch of the Guyana Metal Dealers and General Exporters Association (GMD&GEA)

at Regency Suites hotel.

Professing to have voted for the coalition, President of the Association, Malek Cave, had complained that the current Administration was less willing to work with traders than the previous one.

Cave had made a number of recommendations for how the scrap metal trade could be safely opened; including annual licensing with a register of dealers. He had also urged that the policing of the sector be strengthened; as well as toughened penalties for infractions. Cave also stressed that the association would not give up its advocacy and its drive to bring the authorities to the negotiation table.

Opposition Member of Parliament, Juan Edghill, had declared his party’s support for a regularised industry. He had also revealed his party’s willingness to either bring a motion to the National Assembly or pose questions to the relevant Minister’s regarding their trade.

8 news

saturDAY, march 3, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Decomposed body fished out of creek

T

he decomposed body of an Amerindian male was fished out of the Kurupung Creek in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni area of Region Seven at about14:30h on Thursday.

Clad in a yellow shirt

and dark coloured pants, the body appears to be that of someone who had been in his late twenties. However, his identity has not as yet been established.

Guyana Times understands that a group of per-

sons travelling in a boat noticed the body and reported its presence to Police, who visited the scene and retrieved the body from the river.

Inspections have revealed that the body might

have been in the creek for at least four days; however, no missing persons report matching the man’s description has been lodged.

Police have since begun investigating the discovery of the body and the circumstances attending the man’s demise.

Woman on bail for stabbing drinking partner

A

26-year-old woman was hauled before the court charged for stabbing her drinking partner.

Lovern Stanley appeared before Principle Magistrate Judy Latchman on Thursday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to an assault causing bodily harm charge.

It was alleged that on February 24, 2018, while at Imbaimadai in the North West Magisterial district, Stanley unlawfully and maliciously wounded Lucian Stanley with intent to maim, disfigure or cause grievous bodily harm.

Police Prosecutor Moore said the duo is known to each other and on the day in question, they were consuming alcohol when the incident occurred.

It was alleged they got into an argument and Lovern armed herself with a broken bottle and began to stab her drinking partner about his body.

The matter was reported and she was arrested.

She was released on $50,000 bail and is expected to make her next court appearance on March 5.

Miner remanded for assault

R

uben Baird, a miner, has been remanded to prison until March 5 by Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman for unlawful assault committed on Jerry James and Ruby Alonzo.

The court was told that the incident occurred on February 25, 2018 at William Street, Imbaimadai, North-West District, when, under the influence of alcohol, Baird unlawfully and maliciously inflicted grievous bodily harm on the virtual complainants by dealing them several lashes about their bodies.

Police Prosecutor Moore, objecting to the defendant being placed on bail, cited the serious nature of the offences and the penalty the charges attract.

Culture and…

T

…rituals he nation “played” Holi yesterday. And boy, did they play??!! This is especially true of the big ones in Georgetown – who have now wrenched the festival from its moorings and transformed it into another show.

The festival was brought by the Hindus among the Indian indentured labourers when they were hauled across the “black waters” to replace the African slaves on the Guiana sugar plantations. Unlike what they had done to the African slaves, the white planters allowed the Indians to maintain aspects of their culture; but it certainly wasn’t out of beneficence.

Practices like Holi offered an outlet for the oppressed indentureds – who were working for wages even the freed slaves had refused – to bring some spontaneity to their lives of drudgery. It brought reduction of the frustration with their working conditions, but, most of all, a reaffirmation of self: “I may be a cane-cutter, but I am SOMEBODY with my culture!! And that culture tells me how to survive my reality!”

What is the reality of those who played Holi at State House? Do they realise the suffering they’ve unleashed in the sugar belt? There, not a day goes by when the workers aren’t reminded about their powerlessness in the society.

Is there anywhere else in the world – other than under a totalitarian regime like North Korea – where one-third of the workers in an industry would be summarily dismissed without any sort of blowback? Can you imagine what’d happen if 6000 public servants were fired in one fell swoop?

After all, a case can be made that, based on productivity, there’s that much fat among the pencil pushers.

Yesterday, as your Eyewitness moved around the areas hit by the tsunami of unemployment, he could discern the strain in the eyes of those who were ostensibly “revellers”.

They were merely going through the motions; and in that, they ironically missed the purpose of the ritual associated with Holi, which their fore-parents hadn’t. But we’ve done the same thing with Republic Day, haven’t we?

This is now “Mashramani” – supposedly “celebration after a hard day’s work”; but wasn’t connecting Mash to Republic Day meant we were connecting it to the hard work done by Cuffy in charting a way for removing oppressive rule? Sadly, “Mash” has become another “mash down” dominated by wine and wining!!

And that’s what has happened to Holi, which essentially means “celebrating after overthrowing a tyrant”!! That’s right!! Holi is supposed to remind its players that they shouldn’t accept any leader usurping powers that the people didn’t delegate to him. Remember the protests by the Indian immigrants?

Isn’t that what that kid Prahalad did when his father placed his boot on the necks of the people? …and acknowledgement On Holi Day, it was announced that India would foot the bill for building the base for the monument they constructed to honour the first Indians who landed here on May 5th 1838. Ain’t this a shame? It’s just another signal of the contempt in which that demographic is held by the government of this country. The initial agreement was that India would build the monument – conceived by Guyanese artistes – and Guyana would build the site and the foundation.

And what happened? After a year of the monument lying around somewhere, the Government awarded the contract for the base to some fly-by-night firm in Linden that obviously didn’t know their ass from their elbows.

Why “obviously”? Well, who would enclose 100 tonnes of earthen filling with hollow blocks rather than solid cast?? For $42 million!! Even your Eyewitness, who failed physics, knows force is transmitted sideways as well as downwards!!

So it’s a crock for the Culture Minister to say the walls came crumbling down because of no soil tests!!

But it’s a greater crock that we can’t even build a foundation!! …productivity On Holi Day, India announced its 2018 growth rate confirmed IMF projections that it would surpass China as the world’s fastest growing economy!!

Now THAT’S something to celebrate, isn’t it?

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

News

9

saturDAY, march 3, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Oil and gas sector

Building, utilising local content imperative to moving sector forward …as GMSA members benefit from local business development course

S

everal high ranking Private Sector officials and members of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) have benefited from an ongoing course and in-depth discussion on the role of local content in the development of Guyana’s emerging oil and gas sectors.

The course was delivered by the Director of the Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD),

GMSA President Shyam Nokta

Patrick Henry, and Senior Business Specialist Natasha Gaskin-Peters in the conference room of the Centre, which is located on South Road, Bourda.

The main focus of the course was to give suppliers an understanding of the core concepts of local content while also exploring the common barriers to entering the oil and gas supply chain. It also saw participants benefiting from a presentation which high-

Gold sector

Training must precede codes of practice – mining syndicate urges …elects first female President

Former President of the National Syndicates, Renwick Solomon

T

he codes of practice for local miners being ushered in by the Natural Resources Ministry must be preceded by extensive training sessions with local miners. This is according to the National Mining Syndicate.

In an interview with this publication, former President of the Group, Renwick Solomon, warned of the ill effects should the codes be implemented before the proposed training. These, he said, could include miners misinterpreting the codes due to their technical references and unwittingly breaking the rules.

With this in mind, Solomon expressed the belief that the codes of conduct

would only be workable under these conditions. He also stressed that the training must be over a period of time in order to avoid any confusion.

“The codes of practice would only be workable if there is a component part within the whole process of training, because [Guyana Geology and Mines Commission] GGMC has been with this since 2005…

13 years. And it (training) must be over an extended period. (But) there’s always a cost attached to implementing these processes.”

“They’ve been working with it to iron it out for the past 13 years. And to implement it now, they would have to have that hands-on approach to work with the miners to bring the process through. GGMC technical officers have to explain it to the ordinary Guyanese. People will read it and may not digest it.”

New President

Solomon will no longer be agitating for these measures as President of the syndicates.

On Thursday, the group hosted its second election where Cherryl Williams, a miner of 28 years, being elected as the first female President.

Williams hails from the

Experienced miner Cherryl Williams will be the new President of the Syndicates

mining town of Bartica, in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni). She replaces Solomon, who served in the capacity of President for one year. She brings to the post a wealth of experience, having being involved in the mining sector for almost three decades.

Williams’ team comprises Troy Duncan who was voted in as Vice President.

Carol Nurse, Dana Jones, Michael Bacchus, and Carol Fredericks were elected to serve as Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treasure, and Assistant Treasure respectively. Additionally, seven persons were elected to serve on the new Executive Committee.

Turn to page 15

lighted a number of ways in which they could benefit from the limitless opportunities that would become available as a result of the emerging sectors.

In brief remarks, GMSA President Shyam Nokta underscored the importance of the course and the need for industry and GMSA members to familiarise themselves with the changing dynamics that will take place in Guyana’s economy as a result of the oil exploration, development and production activities that will take place in the sector.

He thanked all of the participants for demonstrating continued interest in the work of the Business Development Centre as he encouraged them to utilise all of the services it is currently offering businesses that are free.

Meanwhile, Henry also welcomed the business representatives and GMSA members to the course which he said was only one step in securing a holistic and informed view of what really constitutes an effective local content policy.

Henry said businesses should also strive to understand the concept of “value added” and the resources available locally to drive investments and maximise opportunities that will become available over the next few years.

During a PowerPoint presentation which was delivered largely by Peters, participants heard some of the local barriers for suppliers who are seeking to benefit from the emerging oil and gas sectors and the concept of value added are insufficient knowledge of the industry development process and timelines, failure to meet industry standards, and non-compliance with health, safety and security and environment requirements. Other barriers included lack of proven experience and demonstrated track record, accessing new sources of finance for new capital investments and understanding how to do business using e-procurement systems with IOCs. The GMSA members and other officials were also made aware of the chal-

lenges related to local content. These include competitiveness, procurement and sourcing, business environment and the structure of the economy.

The course facilitators also informed participants on the key to winning contracts which they said was related to how competitive their businesses and partnerships were when compared to others who were likely to provide the similar products.

They were advised that in order to become more competitive, focus had to be placed on addressing issues related to capacity, cost and price, financial strength, market experience, quality standards, timelines, workforce skills, upstream capabilities, and safety record.

During the three-hour event, GMSA members were also broken up into groups and asked to coin their own definitions of what Guyana’s local content policy should be before an open discussion was held on the significance of those definitions as well as the implications.

10 news

SaturDAY, march 3, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Cubans “camping” at CJIA temporary – Min Patterson area. The airport employees have related that this issue has already been raised with management of the CJIA, but very little is being done to address it.

CJIA employees relate that the issue is becoming out of hand because the number of Cuban passengers is steadily growing.

They relate that sometimes these foreigners would send their baggage ahead while they wait for another flight.

Cubans camping out at the CJIA

P

ublic Infrastructure Minister David Patterson has said the current situation involving Cubans camping out at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) is temporary, and is because the airport is under renovation.

He is appealing to persons experiencing some inconvenience by the situation to exercise patience when using the CJIA facility.

“As you know, the airport is under(going) renovation and there are some issues (that would inevitably crop up). We are aware of the situation with the Cubans, and we urge persons to exercise patience as we get things in order,” the minister said in an invited comment.

“But, so far, we have not received any reports of any incidents with the Cubans or anyone else; but I assure you that if we receive any re-

port -- whether it (involves) Guyanese, Cubans or anyone else -- it will be dealt with accordingly,” Patterson added.

Guyana Times reported on Friday that, over the past months, several outgoing travellers have complained about their free flow of passage at the CJIA being ham-

pered by Cubans who are using the airport as a camping ground.

On a daily basis, hundreds of Cubans would line the streets of Georgetown, conversing in their native language as they spend exorbitant amounts of money on clothes to take back to Cuba. The business folks in

Cubans unloading cargo at the CJIA as they wait for flights

Minister David Patterson

Georgetown have welcomed that development, reporting that most of their customers are Cubans or Brazilians.

Caribbean Airlines recently began offering flights to Cuba, but Cuban nationals have been using chartered flights from Copa Airlines and InselAir to take their cargoes back to their homeland. And because of the volume of goods to be moved and the fact that those foreigners are obliged to stay with their baggage until same has been shipped, the departure section of the airport has temporarily been turned into a camping ground as they await their flights.

Airport employees have related that the Cubans would arrive with their multiple pieces of luggage several hours before their flights are due — and in some cases the nights before their flights are due — and just camp out in the waiting

When this newscast visited the airport on Wednesday, travellers related their concerns about the situation, and free access to the departure area was obstructed by numerous pieces of luggage lining the area.

Security guards were observed trying to police the Cubans, but because of the language barrier, it was proving to be a difficult task for them.

Narrow escape

M

ore than five persons were on Friday afternoon fortunate to walk away with their lives after two allegedly speeding vehicles collided before toppling and ending in a nearby trench at Patentia, West Bank Demerara.

The drivers were each hurrying their vehicles in opposite directions at about 13:00h when the near disaster occurred. Public-spirited persons assisted in pulling those inside of the vehicles to safety.

Thankfully, no one was seriously injured in this accident.

NEWS

11

SaturDAY, march 3, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo in conversation with Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Venkatachalalm Mahalingam and Opposition parliamentarian Priya Manickchand

By Lakhram Bhagirat

T

he Phagwah festival is testament to the multiculturalism of the Guyanese society as citizens from all walks of life smeared their friends and in some cases total strangers with vibrantly coloured powders.

Phagwah is the Hindu festival of welcoming that originated in the northern part of India, quickly spreading throughout and was brought to this part of the world during the indentureship period.

On Friday, Guyanese celebrated Phagwah and as one moved about, the lively beats of the drums coupled with rang barse blasted from stereos while adults and children armed with buckets of water and sachets of gulaal (brightly coloured powder) lined the corner of every street, colouring everyone in the vicinity.

It was an intimately colourful affair over at the Indian Cultural Centre as hundreds of visitors and Guyanese gathered to celebrate with the Indian High Commissioner of Guyana as he hosted his annual Phagwah festival.

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Venkatachalalm Mahalingam said the festival of Holi could also be dubbed as the festival of love mirroring Valentine’s Day since one would forget all differences and smear others with the vibrant colours.

He noted that the festival has a lot of origins, explaining the most popular one of the power drunk King called Hiranyakashipu and his wicked sister Holika.

Legend has it

Hiranyakashipu was granted a boon from the heavens that made him practically immortal and quickly went around demanding that the citizens in his Kingdom worship him instead of god.

He had a young son called Prahalad who refused to follow that order so he decided to kill him by ordering his soldiers to set Prahalad afire; however, while being set alight the young child repeatedly chanted the name of god and was unharmed.

King Hiranyakashipu had a sister called Holika who had a special sari that make her immune to fire, so she was ordered to sit in a fire with Prahalad so that he could be killed but in the end she ended up being reduced to ashes while her nephew remained unharmed. It was from that incident that the festival got its name ‘Holi’.

The Holi celebrations start on the night before

with a Holika Dahan where people gather, perform religious rituals in front of the bonfire, and pray that their internal evil be destroyed the way Holika was killed in the fire. The next morning is celebrated as Rangwali Holi – a free-for-all festival of colours, where people smear each other with colours and drench each other with water.

Joining the festivities and smearing coloured powder on citizens and visitors at the Indian Cultural Centre was President David Granger.

In delivering the featured remarks during the cultural programme, the President said Phagwah is a great equaliser. He added that while Phagwah may be a Hindu festival, in Guyana

it is more of a social one, adding that it is a testament to the rich diversity in the Guyanese society.

He stressed that it is heartening to see the Indian High Commissioner, through the Indian Cultural Centre, continuing the traditions of our ancestors. The event was indeed a true facilitator of social cohesion as Guyanese from all ethnic backgrounds took pride in colouring their friends.

“This is an important festival for us, it is a national festival and regardless of its religious significance, this is one that is very popular because of its vitality because all of us could share without feeling that we are not interfering in the religious cultural beliefs. We are a multicultural society and we embrace diversity. I urge that everyone embrace it, embrace the values. A festival like this helps to break down barriers,” the President stated.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Opposition Leader was Member of Parliament, Priya Manickchand, who related her memories of the festival. She noted that the colours serves as equalising factor since there are no distinctions between skin colour or texture of hair.

“We know the lessons of good overcoming evil and the spring lessons of Phagwah but the lesson that stuck with me about the celebration was that it was a great opportunity to demonstrate how we can equalise our societies. Guyana has gone a far way in recognising the value of each person, each group and this morning is an example of how we can all be celebrating and loving each other. I would like to see this happening every day. I believe that it is something we are capable of, I wish that we take a moment and understand the value of improving people to the best they can,” Manickchand remarked.

Georgetown’s grandeur

The Phagwah festival has a cultural and spiritual significance among various Hindu traditions of the Indian subcontinent. It is

The Everest Ground was brought to life as the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha hosted their annual Holi Utsav

the time to rid oneself of past mistakes, to end conflicts by meeting and greeting others, to forget and forgive other for their past grievances/transgressions, to pay or forgive debts, as well as deal anew with those in their lives.

In Guyana, Phagwah is a national holiday, and although it is a Hindu festival, its public outreach in the country has taken it beyond Hinduism into a national and popular cultural festival celebrated by Guyanese from all walks of life.

In Georgetown, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo joined Guyanese in the showering of coloured powder and abeer as he passed through the streets of Abouystown, Georgetown; Station Street, Kitty; among other areas.

One woman expressed that it was the first time she decided to join in the celebrations. “It feels great to celebrate with my fellow Guyanese, this is my first

The Everest Ground was brought to life as the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS) hosted its an-

which were all melted together.

Both the young and the old celebrated the festival with the same enthusiasm, as they welcomed the season of spring. Most persons visited their respective temples after which they proceeded to the event to partake in the festivities.

Over past years, the event was hosted at the Dharmic Kendra, but due to the growing crowd each year, the event was moved to the Everest Ground to facilitate the immense number of people.

Present at the ceremony was President of the GHDS, Dr Vindhya Persaud who gave her remarks, stating “It reminds us of the triumph of good over evil and it allows us as people to let positive qualities, positive tendencies and all that is wholesome.”

The event featured many entertaining stage performances by local and international singers including Neval Chatelal of Trinidad;

time that I’m actually coming out to play Phagwah and I think I’ll be doing this every year now.”

As one passed through the streets of Georgetown “One People, One Nation, One Destiny” was much more evident as figurative barriers were being broken and gulaal was being smeared across the faces of those who decided to participate.

Passion, enthusiasm, liveliness and pure love was all at the Guyana National

nual Holi Utsav. The venue was consumed by a sea of vibrant colours as scores of participants engaged in the Phagwah activities, applying scented coloured powders and water onto each other.

Those who visited the ground became almost unrecognisable instantaneously, as they were transformed into multicoloured beings, with the hues of majestic blues, flamboyant purple, fiery oranges, delicate pinks, warm yellows among others,

and dance numbers by the Dharmic Nritya Sangh.

Phagwah or Holi is referred to as the ‘Festival of Colours’. It marks the arrival of spring which is evident from the bright colours of abrack (powders) and abeer (liquid) used in the celebration. It symbolises the triumph of good over evil while invoking happiness, love, peace and goodwill.

(Additional reporting by Rupadai Seenaraine and Yanalla Dalrymple)

Stadium, as thousands gathered there.

Traditionally, the colours of Holi celebrate the renewal that arrives with the flowers and colours of spring. Red, green, yellow, blue and black powders fly from rooftops and in crowded squares and the festival transcends classes and caste, as was the case at the Providence National Stadium.

The celebration there differed from the Indian Cultural Centre as the vibe at the Stadium bore more semblance to that of a J’Ouvert party.

“This is my first Holi experience and I totally love it.

I know I will come back here to enjoy. I am in love with the colours and comradery here,” New York native James Schouten related.

Everest’s explosion

12

saturDAY, march 3, 2018 | guya

President D Ventakac High Co

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo during his rounds on Phagwah day made a stop in Albouystown to celebrate with residents

All decked in traditional wear. These young ladies welcomed patrons to the Indian Cultural Centre with an array of coloured powder

Members of the Diplomatic Corps participating in the activities at the Indian Cultural Centre

A sect

All fun as these boys celebrated the festival of colours on the Essequibo Coast

13

ch 3, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

President David Granger in conversation with Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Ventakachalam Mahalingam during the annual celebrations hosted by the Indian High Commission. Also in photo is Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge

The festival of colours was evident at the ICC celebrations for Holi

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and some youngsters at the National Stadium

A section of a gathering at a Phagwah celebration on the Essequibo Coast

14 news

saturDAY, march 3, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Police recruits undergo mental health workshop

Sunrise Centre Manager Miriam Hinds poses with the recruits from the Police training college as well as staff and volunteers of the centre

O

ver two dozen recruits at the Richard Fickal Police College on the Essequibo Coast have been equipped with the knowledge and skills set to deal with persons suffering from mental health issues.

Mental Health continues to be a prime issue of concern in Guyana, particularly the mental health of men; as such, the Guyana Foundation is continuing its quest of not just talking about the problem but also to be a driving force in the promotion of good mental health and holistic wellness for all Guyanese.

To this end, during the course of last year, the Foundation commenced a programme in partnership with the Guyana Police Force through the Richard Fickal Police College, training new recruits in the area of mental health.

This resulted in staff and volunteers of the Guyana Foundation Sunrise Centre conducting a two-day workshop at the Police College at Suddie on the Essequibo Coast on February 27 and 28, 2018.

The workshop took the

form of group discussions, role plays, introspection exercises and games all with the objective of having a better understanding of mental health, primarily the mental health of men.

The Police Officers in training participated fully in all of the activities, where many of them shared some of their own personal struggles, not only as it relates to mental health but also to achieving personal success.

Some of the topics covered were as followed; understanding self, benefits of knowing who you are, identifying personal strengths, weakness and values, factors that shapes and build and individuals self-esteem, what does it mean to be successful, setting SMART life goals, the valley of blame and shame how negative life experiences influences the present, understanding cultural norms as it relates to men, understanding mental health, factors that affect and individuals mental health.

Overall, the sessions were a resounding success as persons took time to share what were some of the

points throughout the workshop that resonated with them and how they intend to apply the knowledge learnt moving forward in their personal lives and career.

In her closing remarks to the participants, Manager of the Sunrise Centre, Miriam Hinds told the young men, “…if you are going to be successful in the road ahead, you first need to deal with those things in your lives that may potentially serve as obstacles to your success.

This means that you must be true to who you are and be honest about your feelings.” She further said, “if you are going to be effective in serving others then you must also be willing to be served which means if you recognise that you need help then get the help that you need, knowing that it will not make you less of a man.”

The session ended with participants expressing gratitude to the organisation. A follow-up session is slated for March 27, where the recruits will demonstrate, through role play, what they would have learnt during the two-day workshop.

Empowering women tops agenda for International Women’s Day event

W

ith the observance of International Women’s Day just a few days away, an entity named Conversations with Selwyn (CWS), in collaboration with Red Entertainment, will be hosting an event at the Marian Academy to recognise the importance of women in society, the need to honour them, as well as to inspire the younger generation of today.

The event will feature inspiring women, among whom are Sherry Ann Dixon, a lecturer with vast exper-

tise in areas such as confidence-building and assertiveness. She is also a beauty specialist, radio presenter, and the managing director of Dixon Consultancy.

Another inspirational speaker would be the Editorin-Chief of The Network Journal, Rosalind Mc Lymont, a former International Trade reporter and the first female managing editor of The Journal of Commence.

There would also be in attendance Dr Asante Leblanc, a General Practitioner and cer-

tified medical herbalist; Lady A Anande Trotman-Joseph, a Guyana-born lawyer; and Dr Samantha Tross, who will all deliver remarks on the celebration of International Women’s Day 2018.

International Women’s Day will be celebrated on March 8, 2018 under the theme “Time is now: Rural and urban activists transforming women’s lives”. The women selected will share their knowledge, and seek to empower many young women of Guyana.

3 Guyanese appointed to Women Deliver 2018 class

T

hree Guyanese youths have recently been selected to participate in the Women Deliver 2018 class of young leaders. The Women Deliver is in the habit of hosting global conferences which seek to discuss and create policy relative to women and girls’ rights and the advancement of gender equality.

This auspicious conference, held every three years, is reputedly the largest gathering of feminists, sexual reproductive health and rights’ advocates, maternal and child health advocates, government, and UN agencies with interest in women and adolescent health.

In excess of 3000 social advocates from around the world had applied for this year’s class. From which a handful of 300 were selected for the conference, 20 of which are Caribbean advo-

cates and 3 are Guyanese.

The Guyanese delegates are Dr Faqueeda Watson, Dennis Anthony Glasgow and Kobe Juwan Smith, all of whom are advocates for women’s and sexual and reproductive health rights in Guyana. The trio will first participate in an online university throughout the course of this year, and will travel to Vancouver in 2019 for the Women Deliver global conference.

The global conference will see three hundred advocates from across the world gathering to discuss a plethora of issues, including sexual and reproductive health and rights; LGBTQ + rights; peace and security; water and sanitation; gender-based violence; education; maternal health, and political participation. At the fifth convening of the Women Deliver global con-

ference in Vancouver, the class will collectively participate in a series of seminars and workshops to share their stories and build their capacity as advocates. The class will also have the privilege of networking with influencers, business owners, and other key stakeholders in women’s related issues.

The 2018 class of young leaders is said to be the most diverse class, with delegates hailing from 121 countries and speaking 98 languages. The class also includes 66 persons who have been affected by humanitarian emergencies, 29 self-identified indigenous persons, and for the first time in the history of the conference, 18 adolescents. The Women Deliver conferences have so far been held in London, Washington, Kuala Lumpur and Copenhagen.

GWI commissions Yurong Paru 30 farmers to benefit from cassava water supply system flour processing project

R

T

Some of the villagers sharing their views on the new project

hirty farmers of Kwebanna Village in the Moruca Subdistrict of Region One (Barima-Waini) will benefit from a $10 million cassava flour processing facility aimed at enhancing food security and maximising income potential of the village.

Launched last Saturday

by Minister within the Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Ministry (MoIPA), Valerie Garrido-Lowe, flour produced from the project will comprise of 40 per cent cassava content and 60 per cent wheat content, which can be used to make healthier meals.

The toshao and residents of the village have welcomed

implementation of this project proposed by the MoIPA, relating that it would propel the local cassava industry of the region, and eventually the village’s economy. They have also pledged to work diligently to produce large crops of cassava.

Minister Garrido-Lowe explained that there have been consultations with Barbados, a prominent producer of cassava-wheat flour, so as to acquire firsthand knowledge of the new product. The budgetary allocation will cover mainly the construction of the facility, acquisition of machinery, planting materials, and training among other as-

pects.

Three farmers will accompany Community Development Officer (CDO) Godfrey Wilson as he spearheads the operations in Region One. The National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), like the Ministries of Agriculture, Business and Social Protection, are among the main partners that would aid in the accomplishment of this venture.

A ground coffee project was also recently launched in Region One by Minister Garrido-Lowe, to assist in boosting the region’s economy.

esidents of Yurong Paru village in the South Pakaraima community of Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) now have access to a supply of treated water because the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has commissioned that community’s water supply system.

Prior to their receipt of this well, residents of the village obtained water from a spring.

Managing Director of GWI, Dr Richard Van WestCharles, addressed the gathering and detailed the importance of teamwork and collaboration to ensure accessibility of potable water in communities.

He also stressed the importance of clean water in communities, highlighting that it is a universal human right and stating that the company is working to improve the water systems in Region Nine.

PAHO/WHO Guyana Consultant for Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Dr Mariano Bonet, explained that what the world wants has materialised in Yurong Paru with the com-

A student of the village utilising the new treated water supply

missioning of the water supply system.

Similar sentiments were echoed by the Chairman of the GWI Board of Directors, Patricia Chase-Green, who also reiterated the importance of water, explaining to residents that they should sustain the water supply system.

The toshao and residents of the community have expressed their gratitude to

the GWI and its partners for establishing a source of treated water. They also would be trained in the application of water treatment, maintenance, and safe operation of the system.

The project was materialised by efforts from GWI, the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), the Yurong Paru Village Council and members of the village.

news

15

saturDAY, march 3, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Den Amstel Health Centre on 24h shift system …following flooding at Leonora Cottage Hospital

R

The flooded eye care centre at the Leonora Diagnostic Centre

egion Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) officials and the Minister within the Public Health Minister, Dr Karen Cummings took the decision to temporarily close the Leonora Diagnostic Centre following flooding of the facility’s lower flat. The hospital is inundated with at least 14 inches of water after extreme high tides overtopped the seawalls in some areas along the West Coast of Demerara (WCD).

Following an assessment

by Minister Cummings and the Regional Health Officer, it was determined that the Mildred Cox-Younge Health Centre, also known as the Den Amstel Health Centre, over the next three to seven days will function in place of the Leonora facility, facilitating outpatients as well as emergency cases, while the West Demerara Regional Hospital will take the more serious cases.

Senior Health Visitor (ag) at the health centre,

Bhagpattie Ramnarine pointed out that the health centre’s capacity is adequate to address the needs of the nearby communities, as well as the affected hospital in the interim, while the Leonora Diagnostic Centre remains closed.

According to Regional Health Officer of Region Three, Ravindra Dudhnauth, the Mildred Cox-Younge Health Centre has been open on a 24-hour basis, offering the same services that would have been accessible at the Leonora Diagnostic Centre except for X-rays and lab work. Those services, he said, will be diverted to the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH).

Minister Cummings, who visited both the Leonora and Den Amstel facilities, said, “I was on spot to see the damage that has been done after the flooding caused by extreme high tides… We were able to mobilise a team – Public Health working with CDC – so we were able to address

the situation very quickly.”

Most of the lower flat of the Leonora Diagnostic Centre was affected, including the male and female observation wards, the sterilisation room, the Accident and Emergency Unit, the Eye Care Unit and both the old and new health centre units.

The operating theatre on the ground floor was unaffected.

Meanwhile, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) led by Director General (ag) Colonel Kester Craig has been mobilised to render assistance to the staff of the Leonora Diagnostic Centre.

The Guyana Fire Service (GFC) has also deployed 51 ranks to assist in the cleanup process at the hospital.

There is another high tide expected which is said to be higher than the ones previously experienced. To this end, the CDC has acquired sandbags to fortify the hospital as well as to be distributed to residents along the affected coast to prevent further flooding and damage.

Training must precede...

In a release from the syndicates, an elated Williams said, “I feel privileged to be elected not only as President of the National Mining Syndicate but also as the first female President.”

The miner also said she understands her role is not to be taken lightly and acknowledged that much work has to be done to take the Syndicate and by extension miners forward.

“Much has to be done and I am up for the challenge,” said Williams who thanked the past President and the Committee members for the work in 2017. “This new Executive promise to continue working towards the ‘good life’,” the President elected stated.

Codes

The codes in question address several aspects of mining; the need for miners to have contingency and response plans; an environmental effects monitoring programme; that miners have the capacity to carry out mining land reclamation and effectively manage tailings.

On Tuesday last, the

Natural Resources Ministry hosted a meeting at the Marriott Hotel with industry stakeholders. In her address to attendees, Minister within the Natural Resources Ministry Simona Broomes informed them that Government was toughening its stance against delinquent miners.

Claiming that the mining sector had been run like the “Wild West” up to that point, she urged participants to get themselves familiar with the codes. The codes constitute the do’s and don’ts of mining; aimed at mitigating environmental damage mining causes.

“Moving into a green economy and green mining, it’s very important that all of us hold ourselves accountable and responsible for what we do. The code of practise can only be a code of practise if it is agreed upon and that is why you are here and if it is being enforced.

And when it is enforced, you practise it.”

“You can see here the pit and the shelving of the pit (codes); the question of safety and fatality in the industry is one that was discussed

From page 9

several times. The importance of the code of practise cannot be understated, since it touched on several aspects.

Mercury, the environment, tail end, land reclamation which is very critical.”

Legal Advisor to the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, Kara Duff Yehudah had explained that the codes were a simplified version of the Mining Amendment Act of 2005.

But in this Act, the GGMC is mandated by law to publish the codes.

“Regulation 248 states that the Commission shall approve or publish a code of practise for environmental mining which shall specify the requirements for mining activities on private and public lands,” she said.

“The codes include provisions for waste management and disposal systems, mechanisms for sediment losses, effluent and contaminated drainage and emergency response plans, mine reclamation and closure plan, environment effects monitoring plans, sand and loam mining, quarrying and control flows from lower dams less than six meters in height.”

6 bandits decend on Potoko Creek ranch; steal livestock, other valuables ... 2 dead, 2 apprehended, 2 at large

P

rompt response, diligent investigative work and courageous actions by ranks of the Guyana Police Force stationed in Berbice have resulted in the demise of two bandits, along with the apprehension of two of four other suspects. All of the stolen property was recovered.

An investigation has revealed that about 05:00h on Friday morning, six male suspects, two of whom were armed with guns, went to a ranch house at Potoko Creek, Canje River, Berbice, where they held three male laboures at gunpoint and stole the following which they subsequently loaded onto a boat and escaped: 23 sheep, 15 ducks, a solar panel, a radio, a quantity of rope, and other valuables.

The stolen items are the property of a 50-year-old businessman of Vryheid, West Canje, Berbice.

Shortly after the robbery, the Police were informed and a team commanded by a senior detective acting on intelligence, intercepted a boat -- with the two suspects who are in custody -in the Berbice River. Based on further information, the ranks proceeded to a location

Dead: Indarjit “Danny” Sham

Dead: Amar “Punk” Bissoon

where the robbery allegedly occurred and found all of the animals with their legs bound and the other stolen property loaded inside of a camouflaged aluminum boat.

Soon after the lawmen disembarked their boat, they were confronted by the now dead men who discharged several rounds at them; the officers quickly adopted tactical positions, returned fire and fatally wounded the men who have been positively identified by the victims of the robbery.

A 12-gauge pump action shotgun, a .32 pistol, 11 live cartridges and five live .32

rounds were found in possession of the bandits.

Also three spent cartridges and a .32 spent shell were retrieved at the scene.

The dead bandits have been identified as Indarjit “Danny” Sham, 37, of Betsy Ground Village, East Canje; and Amar “Punk” Bissoon, 21, of Adelphi Settlement East Canje. Their bodies are presently at the Arokium Funeral Home awaiting post-mortem examinations.

Investigators are making stringent efforts to apprehend the remaining two suspects.

Investigation is in progress.

Embrace Govt’s Green State Development Strategy – Minister Ferguson

M

inister within the Public Infrastructure Ministry, Annette Ferguson, encouraged dozens of electrical contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders to adapt to Government’s ‘Green State Development Strategy’.

The Minister was delivering the feature address at the opening of the Government Electrical Inspectorate’s (GEI) annual conference at the Umana Yana, Kingston on Thursday.

“As we Embrace a Green Energy Sector to power a Green Economy, I would like you to also remember that this initiative by your Government is all-inclusive.

It means that you, as electrical contractors, business owners and suppliers of electrical products, must follow these standards.”

The Minister explained that there are several benefits to be had from the adaptation to a ‘Green State’.

The conference, the Minister added, was intended to educate contractors on, “the benefits of a green economy, requirements for photovoltaic systems with gridties, changes of the National Electrical Code 2017, new requirements for temporary meter circuits, range of voltage offered by Guyana Power and Light (GPL), the

Junior Public Infrastructure Minister Annette Ferguson

new classes of electrical contractor licence and updates on the new list of approved electrical items, among others.”

Meanwhile, the Ministry of the Presidency’s Department of the Environment, Stakeholder Management Coordinator (ag), Aretha Forde explained that “going green is not about a colour but rather a concept. The rest of the world is embracing a ‘green economy’ and in order for Guyana to advance, as we all would like to see, we need to get onboard.”

She further noted that the ‘Green State Development Strategy’ (GSDS) is intended to be Guyana’s long-term national development plan.

“This development plan will go along a green pathway. It will help us to realise

green economies. The green economy is our final destination,” Forde explained.

In addition, Forde identified the GSDS as different to the LCDS. She said the LCDS was sector-based, whereas Guyana kept its forests intact and received payments from Norway for doing so. On the other hand, according to Forde, “The GSDS is all-encompassing. It looks at every single sector within Guyana. It looks at economic development, natural resource extraction, social component, environment…”

There were also presentations by the Fire Prevention Office of the Guyana Fire Service, on safety measures to be adopted when faced with electrical fires and more especially those resulting from a solar electrical installation.

The Government Electrical Inspectorate is the watch guard for the electrical energy sector. Its primary roles are to issue permits for electrical installations, certify code compliant installations, inspect and test electrical installations, licence qualified electrical contractors, resolve disputes between public suppliers and consumers of electricity, investigate fires and electrical accidents and train and edify electrical contractors through the publication of manuals.

16

guyanatimesgy.com

saturDAY, march 3, 2018

Regional

Caricom and Cuba to US makes Cuba staffing cuts expand market access permanent after ‘health attacks’ T C iting mysterious “health attacks” in Havana, the United States said Friday it is making permanent its withdrawal of 60 per cent of its diplomats from Cuba, extending an action that has hurt the island nation’s economy and cramped Cubans’ ability to visit the US. Last October, the State Department ordered non-essential embassy personnel and the families of all staff to leave Havana, arguing the US could not protect them from unexplained illnesses that have harmed at least 24 Americans. But by law, the department can only order diplomats to leave for six months before either sending them back or making the reductions permanent.

The six months expire Sunday. So the department said it was setting in place a new, permanent staffing plan that maintains a lower level of roughly two-dozen people – “the minimum personnel necessary to perform core diplomatic and consular functions.” The department also said that the embassy in Havana would operate as an “un-

In this October 3, 2017 photo, tourists ride a classic convertible car on the Malecon beside the United States Embassy in Havana, Cuba

accompanied post,” meaning diplomats posted there will not be allowed to have spouses or children live with them in the country.

The downsizing of the embassy

staff – and a travel warning the US issued warning Americans to reconsider travel to the island – have had significant effects for Cuba’s economy and for its citizens. (Excerpt from MSN)

he Caribbean Community (Caricom) and Cuba have committed to providing greater market access for goods under the existing trading arrangement between the two sides.

Caricom Secretary General, Irwin LaRocque, and Cuban ambassador to Caricom, Julio Cesar Gonzalez Marchante, recently signed the second protocol to the trade and economic cooperation agreement between the Caribbean Community and Cuba in Georgetown, Guyana.

The protocol deepens commercial relations among the parties to the agreement, by affording regional Private Sector entities additional preferential access of 326 items into the Cuban market. These items include meat, fish, dairy products, fruits, vegetables, beer, rum, cement, soaps and clothing.

Cuba will also have additional preferential access into the markets of Caricom’s more developed countries, which include Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago on 72 items.

Of this number, 50 items will be granted immediate duty free access, while the remaining 22 items will be afforded differentiated treatment in these territories.

Some of the items afforded immediate duty free access are fish, pharmaceutical products and electrical machinery.

The protocol also provides a mechanism for bilateral investment between the parties through the use of contact points to facilitate communication on trade barriers, new trade, investment opportunities and other matters covered by the agreement. (Excerpt

from Caribbean News Now)

Antiguan Govt Barbados condemns discrimination against wants regional and Haitians by Caricom Member States international observers to monitor Antigua poll

T

he Antigua and Barbuda government says it has written to the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Secretary General Irwin la Rocque as well as the Commonwealth and the Organisation of American States (OAS) to send observers to monitor the March 21 general election.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who called the polls more than a year before the constitutional deadline, said that letters of invitation have been dispatched to these organisations.

“I have invited the three organisations to observe the general elections in the interest of full transparency and to show to the world that the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) is fully committed to upholding democracy, the rule of law and fundamental freedoms.”

Browne said that the ob-

server missions will be fully facilitated in their work by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda”.

The writ for the general election was issued on Tuesday, one day after Governor General Rodney Williams dissolved the Parliament on the advice of the prime minister.

Nomination day is March 5. Apart from the ruling, the other parties expected to nominate candidate for the 17 seats Parliament are the main opposition United Progressive Party (UPP), The Antigua and Barbuda True Labour Party (ANTLP), the Antigua Barbuda People’s Movement (ABPM), Missing Link VOP and the Barbuda People’s Movement (BPM).

In the last general election in 2014, the ABLP won 14 seats with the remaining three going to the UPP. (Nation News)

Prime Minister Freundel Stuart says treatment of Haitians seeking to travel to other Caricom Member States is discriminatory

T

he Government of Barbados has expressed concern that citizens of Haiti have to obtain visas in order to travel to some Caricom member

states, although it is a member of the regional integration movement.

“Barbados has always thought that this was a little inequitable and discrim-

inatory,” Prime Minister Freundel Stuart said as the 19th Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of Caricom wrapped up in Port-au-Prince this week.

The Prime Minister argued that the visa requirement was an anomaly in Caricom arrangements.

He said that Haiti – whose President Jovenel Moise has taken over chairmanship of the regional grouping – had the largest population of all Caricom members, yet its citizens were being forced to obtain visas to enter most regional countries in circumstances where other Caricom English-speaking members

T

Montague also disclosed that a reclassification of inmates is underway, following on from an audit of inmates which has already been completed. “What we found was that we had persons charged for minor crimes being housed with persons charged with extremely serious crimes,” he said.

“The reclassification is correcting that and we are moving out some persons from these two maximum security prisons into, say, Richmond and Tamarind Farm Correctional Centres.

(Caribbean360)

Kamla, AG anxious to approve anti-gang laws

L

et’s debate the AntiGang bill today.

This was essentially Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s response on Thursday to Prime Minister Keith Rowley’s ac-

New correctional centre proposed for Jamaica

he Jamaica Government is looking at plans to build a correctional facility in the central part of the island. National Security Minister Robert Montague made the disclosure during the Standing Finance Committee of Parliament meeting on Wednesday, against the background of concerns about the state of the Tower Street Correctional Centre in Kingston where a tunnel was recently discovered, and the St Catherine Adult Correctional Centre.

do not have to satisfy that requirement.

The Barbadian leader disclosed that as a result of his country’s concerns, there was energetic discussion among regional leaders at the just-ended summit, and he believes “the way forward seems much clearer now”.

“The Legal Affairs Committee is being commissioned to look at all the issues surrounding Haiti’s membership and to advise the [Heads of Government] Conference for July as to whether there is any legal basis for denying Haitians rights which all other Caricom members enjoy,” Stuart told the media.

Once that is completed, we (will) have the electronic monitoring programme…

So we will be able to release some persons early, as well as increase rehabilitation programmes,” the Minister added.

The Government has budgeted J$168 million (US$1.3 million) in the 2018/19 fiscal year to undertake construction and renovation works at several correctional facilities as well as improve the Department of Correctional Services’ mobility. (Caribbean360)

T&T Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar

ceptance of the Opposition’s proposed two and a half year sunset clause for the bill.

Debate on the bill failed last December due to lack of Opposition support without a sunset clause. But Government and Opposition have been talking recently on the crucial legislation

which seeks to increase police powers to deal with gang-related offenders.

Following talks two weeks ago, the Opposition agreed to support waiving Parliamentary regulations which bar a failed bill from being debated for six months after failure. The

UNC’s waiver allows for debate earlier than June.

Rowley at a media briefing at Piarco on Wednesday night after his return from a Caricom meeting in Haiti was told of the Opposition’s new position. He accepted the Opposition’s proposal for a two and a half year sunset clause.

Subsequently, the Opposition Leader issued a statement yesterday saying: “In all of the circumstances, including Government’s insistence on the importance of the law proposed in the Anti-Gang Bill in fighting crime, I call upon government to move post haste to bring the amended Bill containing the agreed provisions and, have same taken through all its stages and passed at the next sitting of Parliament (Friday) and, thereafter at the next sitting of the Senate on Tuesday”.

(Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

saturDAY, march 3, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

17

Around the World

Mahatma Gandhi letter on DR Congo violence: Dozens killed in Ituri province Jesus up for sale in US

M

Gandhi wrote that Jesus was ‘one of the greatest teachers of mankind’

A

letter written by Mahatma Gandhi about Jesus Christ is being put up for sale in the US. The letter, signed by Gandhi and dated 6 April 1926, was written to Milton Newberry Frantz, a religious elder in the US at the time.

Gandhi wrote that Jesus was “one of the greatest teachers of mankind”. The letter has been in a private collection for decades and is being sold by the Pennsylvania-based Raab Collection for US$50,000 (£36,275).

Gandhi, an iconic inde-

pendence leader, is revered in India and fondly known as father of the nation. He was a Hindu, who wrote extensively about the religion’s philosophy and teachings.

Gandhi wrote to Frantz from his residence in the Sabarmati ashram in the western state of Gujarat in response to a letter asking him to read a publication about Christianity.

Gandhi wrote: “Dear Friend, I have your letter.

I am afraid it is not possible for me to subscribe to the creed you have sent me. The subscriber is made to believe that the highest mani-

festation of the unseen reality was Jesus Christ. In spite of all my efforts, I have not been able to feel the truth of that statement.”

“I have not been able to move beyond the belief that Jesus was one of the great teachers of mankind. Do you not think that religious unity is to be had not by a mechanical subscription to a common creed but by all respecting the creed of each?”

The Raab Collection said in a statement that their “research discloses no other letter of Gandhi mentioning Jesus to have ever reached the public market.” (Excerpt from

ore than 33 people have been killed in a fresh outbreak of ethnic violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, authorities say.

Unrest broke out between the Hema and Lendu communities in the Northeastern province of Ituri.

A UN-sponsored broadcaster said the assailants were eventually forced back by security forces. More than 100 people have been killed by violence in the province since mid-December.

The unrest between the Hema cattle herders and Lendu farmers of the Ituri region is one of several conflicts in DR Congo which have produced a huge amount of refugees and internally displaced people over the past two years.

Some 200,000 people are estimated to have been forced to flee their homes as a result of the violence

In the past two years, more people have been displaced in DR Congo than any other country

in Ituri alone. Local army spokesman Jules Ngongo told Reuters news agency that state forces had separated the two sides.

“It was a case of reprisals by the two communities. According to our information, there were cases of people being decapitated,” he said. Some charities put the death toll at 49 or more.

Thousands died in fighting between the two groups

Trump trade tariffs: Europe threatens US bikes, bourbon and blue jeans

BBC News)

Thousands march in Slovakia to honour slain journalist

T

ens of thousands of Slovaks marched in a national rally Friday to honor journalist Jan Kuciak and his girlfriend, who were shot dead as Kuciak was working on a story about the influence of the Italian mafia in Slovakia.

In the capital of Bratislava, President Andrej Kiska asked a crowd estimated at 20,000 people to observe a minute of silence for the two, whose bodies were found Sunday in their house in Velka Maca, east of Bratislava.

Similar marches were be-

ing held in some 25 towns and cities across the country and in cities abroad, including London, Paris and Brussels.

After a peaceful march, some in Bratislava moved to the Government office to urge Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico’s Government to resign. Earlier Friday, a top anti-Mafia fighter said Italian prosecutors had warned Slovak authorities about “dangerous” infiltration by a powerful Italian organised crime syndicate even before Kuciak was slain.

On Thursday, Slovak

Israeli Police question Netanyahu in corruption case

I

sraeli Police questioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara on Friday for the first time in a corruption case that involves the country’s largest telecommunications company, Israel Radio said.

Israeli police confirmed that an anti-corruption unit had questioned the couple for several hours each, but did not say whether the questioning was in connection with the case of Bezeq Israel Telecom.

The case is one of at least four investigations surrounding the four-term prime minister or his associ-

ates announced last month, which have put his political survival in jeopardy. In February police recommended that Netanyahu, 68, be indicted for bribery in two other corruption investigations. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing and says he is the victim of a“witchhunt.”

In the Bezeq case, known as Case 4000, authorities allege that the owners of the telecoms firm provided favourable coverage of Netanyahu and his wife on a news website they controlled in return for favours from regulators. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Police raided houses linked to the alleged members of the syndicate in connection with the slayings. Seven men were detained in the raids in the eastern Slovak towns of Michalovce and Trebisov.

Roberti said the ‘ndrangheta might have killed Kuciak because “there was no other way to silence” him. He added the “corruption” of local officials plays a big role in the ‘ndrangheta’s activities abroad. The FBI and Britain’s Scotland Yard, along with the Czech and Italian Police and Europol, are helping Slovak authorities investigate the killings.

Fico is known for his numerous attacks on the media.

(Excerpt from MSN)

between 1997 and 2003, a time when DR Congo was at the centre of what some observers call “Africa’s world war”, as several other countries were involved. Fighting was fuelled by DR Congo’s vast mineral wealth.

The war claimed up to six million lives in total, either as a direct result of fighting or because of disease and malnutrition. (Excerpt from BBC News)

A Chinese worker cutting steel in Qingdao in China’s eastern Shandong province

E

urope has warned Donald Trump to expect retaliatory strikes against American icons like Harley-Davidson, Levi’s jeans and Kentucky bourbon, if he sparks a trade war by going ahead with punitive US tariffs on foreign steel.

The European commission president, Jean-Claude Juncker, warned there would be consequences for the US if Trump’s threat of a 25 per cent tariff on steel

and 10 per cent on aluminium imports takes effect.

“If the Americans impose tariffs on steel and aluminium, then we must treat American products the same way,” Juncker told German television stations.

“We must show that we can also take measures.

This cannot be a unilateral transatlantic action by the Americans,” he said. “I’m not saying we have to shoot back, but we must take action.

“We will put tariffs on

Harley-Davidson, on bourbon and on blue jeans – Levi’s,” he added. His warning came as the International Monetary Fund said that Donald Trump’s plan would cause international damage – and also harm America’s own economy.

“The import restrictions announced by the US President are likely to cause damage not only outside the US, but also to the US economy itself, including to its manufacturing and construction sectors, which are major users of aluminium and steel,” the IMF said.

Other world leaders also threatened retaliation.

Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, said US tariffs would be “absolutely unacceptable” and China too expressed “grave concern” over the plans.

Trump’s announcement sent stock markets around the world tumbling and could prompt other countries to take action. (Excerpt from

The Guardian)

Europe severe weather: Death toll rises amid freeze

From left: A tractor removes snow at the UN European headquarters in Geneva. All flights from Dublin airport have been suspended

T

he death toll from severe weather has risen across Europe, with at least 23 casualties in Poland alone amid sub-zero temperatures, officials say. Shelters have been opened as the plight of rough sleepers is a major concern. Some 59 people have died across the continent, AFP news

agency reports.

Meanwhile most transport and flights have been suspended in Ireland where thousands were left without power.

Several countries continued to face disruption caused by snow and ice.

The unusually cold spell brought by a Siberian weath-

er system was being felt as far south as the Mediterranean. It met Storm Emma on Thursday, causing blizzards and strong winds in parts of England, Wales and Ireland. Flights in and out of Dublin and Cork airports in Ireland were suspended until Saturday at the earliest. All schools in the country

were shut and people were urged not to drive.

In parts of central Italy, ice forced the closure of several roads and railways.

In Poland, most of the victims were rough sleepers. Over the past week, the cold weather has killed seven in Slovakia, six in the Czech Republic, five in Lithuania, four in France and at least three in Spain, according to AFP. Italy, Romania, Serbia and Slovenia have all counted two deaths each, while one person has died in Britain. The Netherlands and Sweden each also recorded one weather-related death. (Excerpt from BBC News)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

saturDAY, March 3, 2018

ARCHIE

Don’t allow anyone to limit what you can do or (March 21take credit for your actions.

April 19) Make your feelings clear, and your actions and intentions known.

ARIES

Learn from someone with TAURUS more experience. Being re(April 20- ceptive to new ideas and May 20) technology will help you advance. Don’t balk at progress.

General participation will keep you informed.

dilbert

Stay focused on self-imGEMINI (May 21- provement, not on trying to June 20) change others. If you work on your personal goals, you will make progress and accomplish what you set out to do.

Stifling your emotions will not help you get your way.

(June 21- Express your feelings openJuly 22) ly. An opportunity to expand your interests and friendships should be taken. A partnership looks inviting.

CANCER

Peanuts

Not everyone will be on LEO your side. Don’t share infor(July 23- mation with someone likely Aug. 22) to take credit for your input.

A competitive approach will discourage others from taking advantage of you.

Help someone who deVIRGO pends on you. Elders, young(Aug. 23sters or a family pet will apSept. 22) preciate your concern and ability to take care of matters quickly. An unexpected reward is heading your way.

Calvin and Hobbes

Emotions will be diffiLIBRA (Sept. 23- cult to control when dealing Oct. 23) with domestic issues, parents, partners or residential changes. Discipline will be required if you want to bring about positive change.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

TODAY’S WORD— CHIMERA (CHIMERA: kye-MEER-uh: A fanciful mental illusion or fabrication.)

Take a passionate apSAGITTARIUS proach to love, life and fam(Nov. 23ily matters.

Offer love, unDec. 21) derstanding and help, not criticism and anger. You’ll get more accomplished if you are mindful.

Average mark 32 words Time limit 40 minutes Can you find 45 or more words in CHIMERA? The list will be published Monday.

YESTERDAY’S WORD — THIAMINE tahini tame team than thane them then thin thine time tine

tinea hame hate heat hint hitman inmate item ahem amen ament

ante anthem anti main mane mate math matin mean meant meat

mien mine mini mint mite name neat neath emit

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

Refuse to let anyone take SCORPIO advantage of you. Helping (Oct. 24out is one thing, but doing Nov. 22) all the work is another. Lay down ground rules and set boundaries when dealing with pushy people.

solution for Puzzle

Personal changes should CAPRICORN (Dec. 22- be inserted into your agenJan. 19) da. Whether you are seeking inner or spiritual growth or an updated image, what you achieve will be gratifying.

Romance is highlighted.

Pore over the fine print AQUARIUS when dealing with money, (Jan. 20medical or legal matters to Feb. 19) ensure that you don’t overlook something important.

Luxuriating and relaxing with a loved one is encouraged.

PISCES Look inward and consider (Feb. 20- what will make you feel good March 20) about who you are and what you’ve accomplished. A small change can make a big difference. Romance is highlighted.

saturDAY, march 3, 2018

19

WINDIES Women beat Magicians in warm-up match W

Kycia Knight

INDIES Women romped to a 7-wicket victory over the Canterbury Magicians at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval, as part of their preparations for Round 2 of the ICC Women’s Championships versus New Zealand White Ferns starting on Sunday March 4.

WINDIES Women won the toss and elected to bowl first.

Canterbury lost Frances Mackay for 7 and the dangerous Amy Satterthwaite for 1. Then Evelyn Jones and Kate Ebrahim consolidated for the Magicians, scoring 98 and 84 respectively as the Magicians posted 216/5 from their 50 overs.

Leg-spinner Afy Fletcher had the best bowling figures for WINDIES women, taking 3/44 from her allotted 10 overs.

In their reply, the WINDIES Women got off to the perfect start thanks to openers Hayley Matthews and Kycia Knight, who put on 75 for the first wicket. Matthews and Kycia blasted the Magicians bowling with Matthews being the aggressor, smashing 13 fours on her way to 61.

Captain Stafanie Taylor had a short stint at the wicket, then Kycia was joined by Chedean Nation. Kycia and Nation both reached half-centuries in a partnership worth 109 runs before Nation fell for a well-played 55.

Kycia and twin Kyshonna then took the WINDIES Women

M

Manchester City are the second highest scorers in Europe’s top five leagues behind Paris St-Germain

suggested.

At the Emirates, particularly in the first half, the City were at their freeflowing best and Wenger could have no complaints.

Sane dribbled past four defenders for the opening goal before Bernardo Silva’s accurate finish and the hosts looked helpless in attempting to prevent the following two goals.

For the second, Sane, Sergio Aguero and David Silva combined brilliantly and the Spaniard calmly fired past Petr Cech.

The third then came at the end of a flowing move with Kyle Walker squaring to German Sane from in behind the left side of Arsenal’s defence.

Guardiola’s side are now 30 points clear of Arsenal and, with their 16-point lead over Manchester United restored, could now win the title in a little over a month when they face their city rivals on 7 April.

If they were to win the title that weekend it would be the earliest the Premier League title has ever been won.

Wenger was prickly in response to questions about his Arsenal future before the game and the result and performance will have done little to silence those questions.

The match was played in front of tens

WINDIES Women tour to New Zealand 2018

March 4 1st ODI at Bert Sutcliffe Oval, Lincoln University March 8 2nd ODI at Bert Sutcliffe Oval, Lincoln University March 11 3rd ODI at Hagley Oval, Christchurch March 14 1st T20 International at Bay Oval, Mt. Maunganui, Tauranga March 16 2nd T20 International at Bay Oval, Mt. Maunganui, Tauranga March 20 3rd T20 International at Pukekura Park, New Plymouth March 22 4th T20 International at Pukekura Park, New Plymouth March 25 5th T20 International at Seddon Park, Hamilton

Neymar to have surgery on injured foot P

City thrash Arsenal to go 16 points clear anchester City produced a scintillating performance to comprehensively beat Arsenal for the second time in five days and extend their lead at the top of the Premier League to 16 points.

After beating the Gunners 3-0 in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday, City dominated in a toxic atmosphere at a half-full Emirates Stadium.

Bernardo Silva opened the scoring in the 15th minute, beautifully curling in a left-footed strike into the far corner after Leroy Sane’s mazy run.

David Silva finished off a fine team move in the 28th minute for City’s second before Sane did the same five minutes later.

Arsenal had the opportunity to cut the deficit shortly after half-time but Ederson saved Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s penalty.

The result sees City pull further away from Manchester United at the top of the table and marks Pep Guardiola’s 100th game at the club with a win.

Arsenal, meanwhile, stay sixth, 10 points off the top four. City were clinical on Sunday in securing Guardiola’s first trophy at the club, although Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger suggested the game was closer than the 3-0 scoreline

to the target in 34 overs, finishing on 70 and 14 not out respectively.

Speaking after the game, Captain Stafanie Taylor said “I thought we bowled and fielded well, especially the opening spell from Shamilia Connell and Tremayne Smartt.

Then Kycia and Hayley set the tone and pace in the powerplay, which gave us the start we needed, and it was backed up by Chedean Nation and Kyshonna. Our preparation for the Championships are coming along as expected and we are ready for the challenge that I know that team New Zealand is coming with.”

of thousands of empty seats in north London, surely not all as a result of the snowy weather.

Many of those that did attend booed City’s third goal, at half-time, at full-time and when passes went astray, while there were ironic cheers when Cech claimed a catch at one point in the first half.

Nicolas Otamendi’s foul on Henrikh Mkhitaryan gave the Gunners slim hope of a comeback in the 53rd minute but the miss from the spot by record-signing Aubameyang ended any chance of a contest.

Arsenal have now lost seven times in 2018 and their only route back into the Champions League looks to be winning the Europa League.

They have have now gone 10 games without keeping a clean sheet in the Premier League, their longest run in the competition since February 2002.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown described it as a “sad evening” for Wenger on BBC Radio 5 live, adding that the Gunners were “outplayed and outfought”.

There were chants of “there’s only one Arsene Wenger” from the stands in the final stages but, to add to the Frenchman’s misery, those appeared to come from the visiting fans. (BBC)

aris St-Germain forward Neymar will have surgery on Saturday after fracturing a metatarsal and spraining an ankle during Sunday's Ligue 1 victory over Marseille.

Brazil team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar confirmed the news to reporters, and said the 26-year-old will be out for up to three months.

He expects Neymar to be fit in time for the World Cup in June.

But the £200m world record signing will miss the rest of PSG's season.

PSG coach Unai Emery initially said Neymar had a "small chance" of facing Real Madrid in the Champions League next week, before Neymar's father said he would be out for "six to eight weeks".

Lasmar, in quotes reported by O Globo, said: "The operation will be in Belo Horizonte on Saturday morning, and the recovery takes from two and a half months to three months.

"Neymar is sad, but understands he has no alternative now. He will devote himself to being well as soon as possible".

PSG said, after "three days of planned care", it was a joint decision by the club's medical staff and the Brazilian national team to opt for surgery.

The striker joined PSG from Barcelona last August and has scored 29 goals in 30 games.

PSG are 14 points clear of second-placed Monaco in the league and on 6 March will host Champions League holders Real Madrid, trailing 3-1 from the first leg. (BBC) Neymar has scored 29 goals in 30 games since joining PSG

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

saturDAY, march 3, 2018

Central American and Caribbean Games, Cuba…

National TT teams finish 3rd & 6th Trenace Lowe

T

he National female and male table tennis teams pushed on from some strong group performances to finish joint third and sixth respectively at the Central American and Caribbean Games (CAC) Qualifiers in Cuba on Thursday.

Both sides prior to the knock-out stages already had their spot at the July 19 to August 3 Games in Colombia sealed as the top eight teams were secured.

The women reached the semi-finals but suffered a 0-3 loss to Mexico and finished joint third with El Salvador.

Trenace Lowe pushed Marbella Aceves but in the end went down 12-14, 11-8, 8-11, 13-11 and 9-11 while Natalie Cummings suffered straight sets defeat (5-11, 6-11 & 2-11) to Yadira Silva.

The combination of Jodyann Blake and Cummings could not do the trick against Monica Munoz and Aceves

as the Mexicans sauntered to 7-11, 8-11 and 5-11.

Only seven teams in Venezuela, Mexico, El Salvador, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Guatemala and Barbados took place in the female competition.

Over in the men category, where they Guyanese entered as the fifth ranked team ahead of Barbados, suffered a shocking 1-3 loss to the islanders in the fifth place playoff after defeating Trinidad and

Tobago 3-0.

In their clash against Barbados, Shemar Britton loss to Tyrese Knight 11-5, 116, 8-11 and 11-7 while Nigel Bryan suffered a similar fate at the hands of Mark Dowell 11-8, 11-1 and 11-8.

Their lone victory came in the doubles match when Britton and Joel Alleyne delivered the goods to win 11-9, 11-6 and 11-7 against Marcus Smith and Dowell.

Unfortunately, second time did not bring the same charm as Allyene and Bryan went down to Knight and Smith 6-11, 8-11 and 7-11.

They missed out on a top four spot by going to Guatemala who reached the final against Dominica Republic in three straight sets.

Including Guyana, the eight qualified men’s team are the Dominica Republic, Guatemala, Barbados, El Salvador and Trinidad and Tobago.

The top eight outfits in each of the Men’s Team and Women’s Team events join the four national associations who receive direct entries.

Cuba and Puerto Rico

Natalie Cummings

receive direct entries to the Central American and Caribbean Games in both the Men’s Team and Women’s Team events; it is the same for Colombia, as the hosts.

Additionally, for the men, Mexico are direct entrants; for

the women, the Dominican Republic are already on the Barranquilla entry list.

The qualifiers will conclude on Sunday after which Britton and Alleyne stay in Havana for the Latin America Championships from March 4-9.

Paul, Shepherd, Hemraj picked for Windies A One-Day matches

T

Oldest active Berbice cricketer honoured Zamin Hamid (centre) proudly displays his token in the presence of Mukesh Appiah (left) and Matthew Appiah

F

yrish second division cricketer, 73-year-old Zamin Hamid was recently honored by the Appiah family for his contribution to the development of the game as a player and administrator and his role in community development.

He is also the oldest active player in the county of Berbice. He participated in the inaugural Ramnarine Appiah Memorial Cricket Competition and was one of the outstanding bowler. He also participates in New Building Society Limited and Raffik and Sons Second Division Cricket Competitions and every other tournament organized by the Berbice Cricket Board.

At a simple but significant ceremony held recent-

ly, Mukesh Appiah presented a beautiful plaque to Hamid with his photograph engraved, medals, trophies and a button.

The recipient expressed gratitude to the Appiah family for recognizing his contribution to society in general and promised that he will continue to play as long as possible. Appiah praised Hamid for staying healthy and well at that age to the extent he can still play the game. He urged the youngsters around to emulate the attitude and commitment of the senior citizen.

Other senior citizens honored were the oldest living resident in the area, 97-year-old Gulcharran Kandie, Bharrat Budhram, Partab Mangal and Nelson Crandon.

he Selection Panel of Cricket West Indies announced on Friday a 13-member WINDIES “A” squad for three One-day matches against England Lions on March 6, 9 and 11 at the Coolidge Cricket Ground here.

The One-day series comes on the heels of the “Test” series which WINDIES “A” swept 3-0, bringing kudos from Chairman of the CWI Selection Panel, Courtney Browne.

“The ‘Test’ side had an outstanding series, and the panel would like to congratulate the team and coaching staff for a stellar performance against the English,” he said.

“The ‘Test’ squad reflected the majority of those players that have been with our WINDIES ‘A’ programme for the last 18 months or more, plus some senior Test team players that needed to make justification for further senior Test match consideration.

This allowed us to put out a strong squad against the England Lions.”

On the forthcoming Oneday series, Browne said: “This WINDIES ‘A’ One-day squad has a few new faces and these players have been identified based on their Super50 Cup performances.

We are now looking forward to similar performances from the players in the One-day series that are worthy of challenging for senior team slots.

“Our

performances in One-day Internationals at the senior level have not been consistent for a number of years now and we need to start identifying players that can help us to become a more consistent ODI team.”

On the new faces in the One-day squad, Browne said: “Hodge had a very good allround performance for his franchise which helped them to win the Super50 Cup. His ability to bowl up front with his left-arm spin bowling is an asset and his very capable middle-order batting brings a good dimension to the squad.

Raymon Reifer has been steady for the Windies A in both formats

opportunity to stake a claim for one of the opening positions, where we’ve lacked consistency in our international cricket.

“Romario Shepherd, whose ability to bowl with good pace and control in the Power Play, gave him the nod over other contenders, and Keemo Paul was an ICC Youth World Cup winner with Kavem our Under-19 Hodge also got squad two his maiden Windies years ago A team call up and has p ro g re s s e d nicely, plus “Chandrapaul h i s ability to Hemraj looked swing the promising with the bat new a n d during the Digicel 4-Day old ball Championship and Super50 Cup, so he has been given an along

with his athleticism in the field adds good value to the squad.”

In his debut List A season in the just concluded Regional Super50 Cup, Hemraj scored 227 runs from nine innings with a highest score of 80 against Jamaica Scorpions while Keemo Paul and Romario Shepherd played seven matches each and picked up 13 and 11 wickets each.

Another rookie pick is Dominican Kavem Hodge who scored 241 runs and picked up 15 wickets in 10 matches that took the Windward Islands Volcanoes to the title.

Squad; Kieran Powell (Captain), Jahmar Hamilton (Vice Captain), Jermaine Blackwood, Roston Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Kavem Hodge, Andre McCarthy, Keemo Paul, Raymon Reifer, Romario Shepherd, Odean Smith, Jomel Warrican Team Management Unit; Floyd Reifer (Head Coach), Rayon Griffith (Manager/ Assistant Coach), Roddy Estwick (Assistant Coach), Khevyn Williams (Physiotherapist), Gregory Seale (Strength & Conditioning Coach), Dinesh Mahabir (Analyst) Windies A vs England Lions One Day Series

March 6 – 1st One-day Match – Coolidge Cricket Ground March 9 – 2nd One-day Match – Coolidge Cricket Ground March 11 – 3rd One-day Match – Coolidge Cricket Ground

CLASSIFIED ADS saturDAY, march 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

sports

21

Singh promises to take Everest to new heights

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

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

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

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

…Manzoor Nadir joins Executive

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

T

The newly elected Everest CC Executive: seated from left; Surika Singh, Rajesh Singh, Johnny Azeez, Satyendra Khemraj and Saheed Mohamed. Back row from left; John Ramsingh, Rahaman Khan, Manzoor Nadir, Dwayne Adams, Ravin Balkarran and Ron Morris

he Everest Cricket Club held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday night in the club’s pavilion and despite the poor turn out of members a new executive body was elected to oversee the historic club’s affairs for the next year.

Rajesh Singh who sought re-election was returned unopposed for the top spot of President and will have fellow long-standing member Johnny Azeez as his Senior VicePresident. Azeez was also unchallenged for the post.

The post of Junior Vice-President was filled by current second division player, Saheed Mohamed who was also the sole nominee for the crucial spot.

Former government minister, Manzoor Nadir was nominated alongside Satyendra Khemraj for the post of secretary but the mem-

Everest CC newest Life Member, Rajendranath Dudhnath

bership went for Khemraj who secured 12 votes to Nadir’s 4. However, Nadir was elected to the post of treasurer after a close battle with for-

mer treasurer Roland Fanfair which ended 9-7.

The lone female on the executive body is Surika Singh who will serve in the capacity of Assistant Secretary. The new Assistant Treasurer is Dominic Sundar while Ron Morris is the new Club Captain.

All three members were unchallenged for their positions.

The general body also elected four committee members; John Ramsingh, Rahaman Khan, Ravin Balkarran and Dwayne Adams to round out the quota of executives that will serve until February 2019. Raymond Williams was the Returning Officer.

In his address, Singh thanked the membership for their support and also thanked his new body for accepting their positions. He then charged everyone present to support each other for the betterment of

the club and reminded the executive that despite the positions are voluntary, he expects full support.

Singh used the opportunity to propose that Prakash Balgobin and Anthony Rampersaud be returned as the internal auditors and Nizam Ally and Company Limited as the external auditors and he was supported by the general membership unanimously.

The city businessman who is a life member of the club pledged to return the club to the glory days and urged the members to see and support his vision which will require all hands on deck. He said that despite 2017 was the most challenging, the club still recorded some positives.

Additionally, Rajendranath Dudhnath who became a member of the club in 1990 applied for ‘Life-Membership’ status and it was granted.

Kissoon’s Millondollar Shoot-out tees off today

F

ormer Lusignan Golf Club President and veteran golf lover Hemraj Kissoon is delighted to sponsor a Mega Tournament today at the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC).

In addition to more than 50 years of continuous support for the LGC, Kissoon, who presided over the construction of the present golf Clubhouse is delighted about all the innovations proposed.

Further, he has already donated furniture to the tune of over $1,000,000 to enhance the

clubhouse.

Club President Aleem Hussain, noted that this tournament is special in that Kissoon’s –Mega Furniture Store of Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, is also giving gift vouchers to the first to fourth Net Winners for the purchase of furniture of their choice.

Additionally, trophies will be at stake.

Dubbing today’s event as Kissoon’s million-dollar shoot-out, President Hussain considered this eighth

LGC President Aleem Hussain (2nd from left) accepts the sponsorship cheque from Kissoon’s Sales Manager Christina Dhaneshar, while Kissoon’s CEO Hemraj Kissoon (right) and LGC Public Relations Officer, Guy Griffith look on

tournament for the year to be also the biggest the club would have had so far.

Names of golfers touted to vie for top places this weekend include former Guyana Open champions Avinash Persaud, Mohanlall Dinanauth, Mike

Mangal, and Papo Haniff as well as regular winners Richard Haniff, Parmanand Persaud, Patanjalee Persaud, Deanand Bissessar, Maurice Solomon and President Aleem Hussain. Guyana Open female champions Christine Sukhram, Shanella Webster

and Joaan Deo are also likely contenders for top honours.

As is the norm, invitations are extended to the public to view the exciting tournament and at the same time enjoy the ambience of the Lusignan Golf Club.

GCA 2-day & 40-0ver duels resume today P lay in the Georgetown Cricket Association’s (GCA) General Industrial and Supplies Enterprise (GISE), Star Party Rentals and Trophy Stall first Division two-day Cricket Competition resumes today with tw matches.

At Everest, the home team will host Malteenoes Sports Club while

Police will travel to Queenstown to take on hosts Demerara Cricket Club (DCC). Both matches begin at 09:30h today and end on Sunday.

Meanwhile, the Noble House Seafoods second Division tournament will also see two matches being played.

Beginning at 11:00h, Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC)

will entertain neighbours and arch rivals Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) at Bourda while Transport Sports Club and Everest Cricket Club do battle at the Gandhi Youth Organization (GYO) ground.

Play in the New Building Society (NBS) second Division 40-overs competition today will see Police Sports Club hosting the

Guyana Defence Force (GDF) at Eve Leary while Malteenoes and GNIC will meet at the Muslim Youth Organization (MYO) ground. Both matches begin at 11:00h.

The lone match on Sunday will bring together MYO and the University of Guyana at the MYO ground from 11:00h

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

saturDAY, march 3, 2018

Milo Schools Football 2018…

Final shot for round-of-16 spots It is an ‘all or nothing’ bout for The Bishops’ High School when they play School of the Nations today at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue

T

oday marks the penultimate day for group matches in the sixth annual Milo Schools Football tournament and while some spots for the round-of-sixteen segment have been taken by the usual suspects, there are still a few openings up for grabs when play gets underway at the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue.

Three-time defending champions Chase Academic Foundation will have their clash with Annandale Secondary being replayed from noon after their encounter prematurely came to an end due to a power outage with Chase being 3-0 at half-time. However,

both sides are certain of a spot in the next phase regardless of result.

The Bishops’ High School (BHS), however, are not certain where their future lies and first need to comprehensively dispose of School of the Nations in the second match of the day from 13:30h. The Carmichael Street unit have lost and drawn their two matches so far but will start as favourites today since Nations are yet to register a win.

Meanwhile, St Roses High who hold an edge of qualification ahead of Uitvlugt Secondary will need to defeat Sir Leon’s Lesson who have been unbeaten to date

Hamilton fastest as F1 wraps up 1st test of 2018

F

ormula One wrapped up the first pre-season test of the year in Barcelona on Thursday with fourtimes world champion Lewis Hamilton back on top of the timesheets for Mercedes. The Briton, who had done only 25

of stretch the legs a little bit on this new car.

“So far it’s positive.”

The pace of the Mercedes came as no surprise, with the team having won the last four drivers’ and constructors’ titles, and they already look

Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes during testing

laps earlier in the week after snow and rain wreaked havoc with the schedule, completed 69 more with a fastest time of one minute 19.333 seconds using the medium Pirelli tyres.

“I was really happy to get out today, to be honest,” Hamilton told reporters at the end of the day’s session at the Circuit de Catalunya. ”I don’t like testing but today I actually was really keen to get out, obviously because we hadn’t had many laps... to get a feel for the tyres and warm-up process and kind

the team to beat even though testing times can be deceptive.

Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel, also a four-times champion and last year’s runner-up to Hamilton, has already said that Hamilton and Mercedes will be favourites when the season starts in Australia on March 25.

Hamilton said he was not looking at other teams’ performance, however.

“I don’t know what they’ve been doing,” he said. “I’ve seen a couple of them on track. I’ve not even seen their

livery, I just know it’s red.”

Belgian Stoffel Vandoorne, in the now Renault-powered McLaren after that team’s split with Honda at the end of last year, did 110 laps and was second quickest although he was using the much faster hyper-soft tyres.

Vandoorne’s time of 1:19.854 was still half a second slower than Hamilton‘s.

The Belgian’s Spanish team mate and double world champion Fernando Alonso did another 51 laps and was fifth on the timing screens.

French driver Pierre Gasly, in the Honda-powered Toro Rosso, did the most mileage -an impressive 147 laps -- while Vettel completed 120 and was third fastest on a day that started wet but dried out.

“I’d have liked to have driven more, but we can do that next week (at the second test), when we will start to get a clearer picture,” said Vettel, who spent some time in the garage as mechanics worked on the car.

Mexican Sergio Perez had his first taste of the new Force India, after the snow stopped him getting any mileage on Wednesday, and lapped eighth fastest.

The second and final preseason test starts on Tuesday at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya. (Reuters)

when they clash at 15:00h.

More so, given that Uitvlugt will be playing on Sunday from noon against Cummings Lodge who are yet to notch a win.

Christianburg Secondary will get in to action on Sunday as well from 13:30h and are already firmly assured of a spot in the knock-out phase unlike their opponents Ann’s Grove, who need a victory to stay in contention.

Runners-up in 2017, Morgan’s Learning Centre are strong favourites to finish the group stage unbeaten as they come against Pure Masters from 15:00h.

The match holds more significance for

the latter who have to pay close attention to the BHS match as a huge loss could see them in the precarious position of qualifying as one of the four top third-placed teams.

The quest is to secure the first place prize of $500,000 which goes towards a school project. Second to fourth, will receive $300,000, $200,000 and $100,000 respectively which also go towards school projects.

The under-18 tournament is a collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health under the theme, “there is no excuse for violence”.

Anderson “worried” about the future of Tests

E

ngland’s James Anderson says he is “worried” about the future of Test cricket after three internationals signed white ball-only contracts.

Adil Rashid, Alex Hales and Reece Topley announced last month they would not be playing in the 2018 County Championship.

Anderson is concerned the lure of more money will encourage younger players to choose limited-overs cricket.

“I just pray there is enough love for Test cricket out there,” he said.

“With the way cricket is going and the amount of Twenty20 cricket around the world, there is that worry that more and more people will start doing it.”

The whiteball game is becoming increasingly popular among players because of the lucrative sponsorship deals on offer in the Big Bash and Indian Premier League.

Good decision for Rashid & Hales - Moeen Ali Is T20 specialist the best job in the world?

How T20 has changed the world Leg-spinner Rashid will only play white-ball cricket

for Yorkshire during the 2018 season, while opener Hales has signed a new limited-overs deal with Nottinghamshire for the next two years.

Hampshire seamer Topley has made the decision as part of his rehabilitation from a recurrence of a stress fracture in his back last summer.

Anderson says Test cricket is adapting with the introduction of pink-ball cricket and daynight Tests, but fears it will not be enough to attract some players in future.

“The next generation of players coming through might see that as a way to go if they want to find a career in cricket,” added Anderson, who is fifth on the all-time Test wicket-takers list with 523.

“It’s a lot less hours on the field playing, it’s a lot easier on the body and the mind, and it potentially could be more [lucrative] in terms of the money they can make around the world.”

England beat New Zealand by six wickets on Wednesday to level the oneday series at 1-1 following a three-wicket defeat in the series opener in Hamilton.

Anderson is keen to see the one-day side’s positive mentality translate into E n g l a n d ’ s Test cricket following their 4-0 Ashes defeat by Australia.

“We want to try and play with the positivity the one-day side play with,” he said.

“In Test cricket, that can be difficult. We want to put the opposition under pressure whenever we get the chance.”

(BBC)

James Anderson

SATURDAY, march 3, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

23

Jones advocates for a “healthier nation” …as 4th Kares Fitness Challenge officially launched

D

Organisers and Sponsors along with Director of Sport Christopher Jones at the launch of the event on Thursday evening

irector of Sport Christopher Jones is advocating persons strive to be more active and promote a healthy lifestyle as he spoke at the launch of the fourth annual Kares engineering Fitness Challenge at the Giftland Mall Entertainment Strip on Thursday evening.

Jones who is also a part of the Scotiabank Celebrity challenge stated, “I am happy to be part of this activity and I think everyone should make it their duty to come out and support; find your own challenge and strive to be healthy.”

Other starters in the celebrity challenge are Miss World Guyana Veena Mookram, Radio announcer/ Disc Jockey Akelo Elliot, Radio Announcer/ Television Presenter Macalea Cameron also known as

The Remix Chic, Chief Executive of Pulse Entertainment Robbie Singh and Co-owner of Red Entertainment Saskia Wijngaarde who have thrown their hats in the ring.

Scotiabank is the official sponsor for celebrity challenge segment and will be making what is understood to be a huge financial contribution to the Giving Hope Foundation and Help and Shelter.

One of the Organisers Jamie McDonald explained the event will bring a greater dynamic that those of previous years and they will have a fifth event which will only be revealed at the end of the event.

Another organiser Jordana Ramsey-Gonsalves lauded the growth of women in the event which has eleven female entrants

Zalena Alli of Cross Fit 592 doing one of the exercises

Corona Futsal Tournament

Sparta chasing 1st victory against Mocha

this year.

Nikita Persaud of Kares Engineering expressed they will continue to support the event as it is way of helping to promote a healthy lifestyle.

In 2017, it was a Cross Fit 592 sweep with marque athletes Dillon Mahadeo and Semonica Duke taking the individual titles while their gym won the team event.

Spectators will be charged $1,000 for entry into the National Park while children under 10 years old will be admitted free.

Spectator Games will also be conducted.

Teams from Suriname and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) are set to throw strong challenges to defending champions Cross Fit 592.

GSCL Inc/Republic Cup 2018

Semi-finals on today at Malteenoes

Wayne Jones of Mike’s Wellman will renew rivalry with Regal Masters at Malteenoes

Sparta Boss were far from their best on the opening night and will need to come good or face the boot

S

parta Boss will hope they can quickly dust off the heart breaking 3-4 defeat they suffered to Tiger Bay on the opening night of the Corona Futsal Tournament and bounce back to secure their first points when play continues this evening at the National Gymnasium.

Sparta clash with Mocha who edged ahead of Plaisance 5-4, so the likes of Jeremy Garrett, Jermin Junior and Quincy Adams know a tough task awaits them when their fixture commences at 22:20h.

The other matches of the night pits Alexander

Village and Broad Street in the curtain raiser from 19:00h with the latter coming off heavy 3-6 loss to Back Circle.

From 19:50h Xtreme Campbellville will suit up against New Market Street followed by Tiger Bay and Plaisance from 20:40h.

North East La Penitence then meet California Square from 21:30h and the final match of the night will be Old Skool Ballers and Future stars from 23:15h.

The lucrative tournament sees the winning purse being $600,000 and the championship trophy.

Second to fourth will take

home $300,000, $150,000 and $75,000 along with the corresponding accolades.

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

The next match day is March 6 and fans will be reminded a Hero Motorcycle will be awarded to a lucky spectator and the Most Valuable Player at the grand finals on Easter Saturday, March 31.

T

oday is game day for the annual Republic Cup which is organized by the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) Inc. There are three categories for competition this year and from 13:00h the semifinals in the male Over-40 yearsold category will bowl off at the Malteenoes Cricket Club ground, Thomas Lands.

The four teams; HS Masters, Ariel Masters, Success Masters and Amazon Masters will have the draw at 12:15h ahead of the toss at 12:30h to see who their opponents are.

The semifinals winners will

go on to contest the first of the three finals from 09:00h on Sunday which will also be played at Malteenoes.

This will pave the way for the final in the Over-45years old category which have been referred to as the heavy weights of the masters’ category. It will bring together defending champions Regal Masters and challengers Mike’s Wellman in yet another major final from 12:00h.

The defending champions have the psychological advantage over their opponents having emerged winners in their four finals encounters to date.

The final match of the day will be a heated clash between Regal All Stars and Success Sports Club from 15:00h in the Male Open Category.

The prestigious Republic Cup trophies that are specially hand carved are up for grabs as well as bragging rights for one year.

All matches will be played with the white ball and will also be used as much needed practice ahead of the March 16 to 18 Orlando Cup. Additionally, Bar-B-Que tickets for the Regal teams’ Orlando Cup trip will be on sale at the semifinals and finals at $1,000 per ticket.

SATURDAY, march 3, 2018

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Paul, Shepherd, Hemraj picked for Windies A One-Day matches Pg 20

Keemo Paul

Romario Shepherd

Chandrapaul Hemraj

Central American and Caribbean Games, Cuba…

Pg 20

National TT teams finish 3rd & 6th National Men’s team: (L-R) Nigel Bryan, Joel Alleyne, Christopher Franklin and Shemar Britton at the CAC qualifiers in Cuba

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.