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Political witch-hunt!

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ISSUE NO. 352

WEEK ENDING july 2, 2017

- Jagdeo accuses SOCU of targeting former gov’t officials F

Former AG Anil Nandlall

Former NICIL head; Winston Brassington and former Finance Minister; Dr Ashni Singh

See story on Page 3

Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams

Decision to South Ozone Park entrepreneur downsize Omar Nooredeen honoured sugar industry Next stop for was "City Hall in Your “necessary” – Granger Borough" is Queens Page 47

Page 11

Page 16

Mayor Bill de Blasio

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NEWS 3

WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Political witch-hunt!

- Jagdeo accuses SOCU of targeting former gov’t officials

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ecent news about the Special Organised Crime Unit’s (SOCU) intention to have two former senior functionaries, one being a minister of the previous Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government taken for questioning in connection with the findings of a forensic audit into the management of National Industrial & Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) has not gone unnoticed by the opposition.

In fact, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo on Tuesday claimed that SOCU has now been converted into a Peoples National

Congress (PNC) outfit with its main objective to carry out withhunts. The former head of state defended the former NICIL head, Winston Brassington and former Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh, who SOCU said they are actively seeking to question.

“It has been created to go after PPP officials, not drug dealers, not money launderers, not anyone else but to go after PPP people. So, we will continue to oppose the witch-hunt,” Jagdeo asserted.

Asked whether he thinks that the two should return, the opposition leader said that it is unfair for both to men put their

lives on pause just to be questioned by the police.

Jagdeo also argued that Government’s action in this regard has been blatant referring to examples where members of the Government calling out members of the opposition in Parliament, warning them to look out for SOCU. He therefore reminded that ministers have no line responsibility for SOCU. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, former Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall, who has been dragged to the courts by Government, informed the media that he was told by se-

nior SOCU officials that they have acquired another search warrant to seize laws books belonging to government.

But Nandlall said that this move would mean that the police are flouting a court order which prohibits SOCU from seizing these books. Nandlall has already been charged with larceny in connection with 15 LexisNexis Law Reports of the Commonwealth that were bought by the State for Nandlall’s own use.

In late April, the Supreme Court of Judicature issued a Conservatory Order, preventing the State and the SOCU from seizing the law books.

The order was issued

by Chief Justice Dawn Gregory.

Nandlall had previously stated that the purchase and subsequent acquisition of those documents were authorized by former President Donald Ramotar.

The documents which were bought between 2012 and 2015 cost the government over G$2.8M at the time they were purchased and are still in the care of the former AG. SOCU had obtained a search warrant to retrieve the law reports but was unable to locate them since they were locked up at a house owned by Nandlall that is being rented and it

was reported then that the tenants are overseas and in possession of the house keys.

The Ministry of Legal Affairs had contended that there is no evidence of the agreement between Nandlall and Ramotar, and even assuming that there was such an agreement, the use of public funds in this manner is against the Financial Management and Accountability Act. It was only recently that Nandlall sued the current Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams for G$125M for what he saw as libelous and slanderous claims in relation to the said law reports.

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EDITORIAL

Indigenous Lands

E

ven as President David Granger attempted to defuse the outrage of the Indigenous Peoples to his arbitrary decision to link their land rights in Guyana to land titling issues faced

by African Guyanese, the lawyer who was hired to play leading technical role in drafting the 2006 Amerindian Act has now thrown a monkey wrench into a possible consensus by declaring that “Indigenous Peoples” is a controversial and very divisive concept, and land claims made on that basis are somehow undermined.

She claims the UN has debated the use of the term for over two decades without coming to a single accepted definition. That might very well be in terms of dealing with grey areas, but in Guyana, whether they are called “Amerindian” or “First Peoples”, there can be no doubt that they fall under the preliminary definition of “Indigenous peoples” proposed in 1972 by Mr José R. Martínez-Cobo, Special Rapporteur on Discrimination against Indigenous Populations: “Indigenous communities, peoples, and nations are those that, having a historical continuity with pre-invasion and precolonial societies that developed on their territories, consider themselves distinct from other sectors of the societies now prevailing in those territories, or parts of them. They form at present non-dominant sectors of society and are determined to preserve, develop, and transmit to future generations their ancestral territories and their ethnic identity as the basis of their continued existence as peoples, in accordance with their own cultural patterns, social institutions and legal systems.”

In Guyana, even President Granger, when he suggested the Joint Land Commission, acknowledged that Indigenous Peoples had occupied their lands from “time immemorial”, and held it as “sacred”.

Back in 1965, Amerindian MP Stephen Campbell attended the Independence Conference in London along with Burnham and the PNC, and ensured the official Agreement for the Independence of Guyana, (Annex C) required the independent government provide legal ownership or rights of occupancy for Amerindians over: “areas and reservations, or parts thereof, where any tribe or community of Amerindians is now ordinarily resident or settled; and other legal rights, such as the rights of passage in respect of any other lands they now by tradition or custom de facto enjoy freedoms and permissions corresponding to rights of that nature.

In this context, it is intended that legal ownership shall comprise all rights normally attaching to such ownership.”

Most Guyanese would now baulk at the ridiculous claim of Columbus “discovering” the “New World”, and so entering the ranks of humanity upon contact with Europeans. But they do not follow through with the equally ridiculous corollary of Europeans going on to assume “sovereignty” over the lands occupied by the Indigenous Peoples living there. At the time of Columbus’s unfortunate voyage, the fledgling International Law postulated, on natural-law grounds, that its concept such as “sovereignty” was based on reason, and applied to all peoples, be they European or not. This was explicitly stated, for instance, in the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648, which launched the modern state system.

But, during the period of empire-building, all sorts of “legal” reasons, doctrines and norms were conjured up to justify their violent land grab. We now have a distinction between “civilised” and “non-civilised” states in the shift to what was dubbed “positivist” International Law, wherein concepts such as “sovereignty” apply only to the “civilised family of nations”. Fine distinctions are now made in the manner in which territories are acquired, such as ‘conquest’ and ‘cession by treaty’.

But even under positivist-based International Law, the Dutch’s “full and free ownership” of land and their British successors (“possessors de facto of the soil” and of “usufructuary rights”) acknowledged the right of the Indigenous Peoples to their land.

Ms Janki and others of like mind might be worried that new, rights-based modern norms of justice — led by the judiciary in Australia and South Africa, for instance — are evolving to amend the inequities imposed by the positivistic stance of European jurisprudence.

More land for Indigenous Peoples?

United States Ambassador Perry Halloway joined other diplomats at a UG art exhibition at the Umana Yana in Kingston, Georgetown, last Monday night.

No solid grounds for dismissing James Singh

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ermit me to register my concern and disappointment on a matter in which I am of the view that it is deemed worrying, in respect to the future political directional dimension our country is heading. This reference is specific to the unjust and unfair egregious politically motivated act of the manner in which the now former head of CANU, James Singh, was relieved of his duties – a portfolio which he held for almost a decade.

During his tenure, he executed his mandate in the highest degree of professionalism and integrity.

The Government when it was in Opposition, they never criticised the workings of CANU under Singh’s leadership; in fact, they renewed his contract for another three years after successfully bringing down one of the country’s biggest drug lords. CANU successfully executed and achieved its mandate – a notion validated by the fact that Guyana was never listed or blacklisted as one of the failed states within which it has failed in combating efforts against drug trafficking. He had a zero tolerance approach on corruption and though he is no longer at the helm of the institution, he has left a well-trained and competent team. How is such an act befitting of a man of his calibre in light of the commendable service he has given to his country? A

James Singh

shameless act on the part of the Government – he does not deserve this. I would like to urge the Government to reconsider this and confer upon him the dignity and respect he commands.

There were absolutely no solid grounds and basis for such a decision. The Public Security Minister cited that it was all part of a restructuring programme developed to strengthen the institution – stemming from some vaguely cited recommendations. This is blatantly appalling against the background that, the Government expended over G$50 million in three months on a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the affairs of the Guyana Sugar Corporation.

Arising from the findings and recommendations therein, the Government saw it best to pursue a path contrary to the recommendations of the CoI despite expending millions of taxpayers’ money to have it

done. Thus, given the current policies and adversities the country is now facing with the downsizing of the industry – closure of sugar estates – it must be mentioned that those were not the recommendations put forward by the CoI. The question is why then, did the Government waste in excess of G$50 million? And if it didn’t see it fit to implement those recommendations – why are they implementing a vaguely referenced recommendation? By whom were these recommendations made and what added value will it bring to the entity?

It would appear that these are all carefully crafted plans by the Government of the day which are in keeping with their own hidden political agenda and pursuits. What could be their agenda, we must ask ourselves as patriotic citizens and seek to derive plausible answers. I must commend James Singh for the way in which he received this politically unscrupulous act against him, very calmly, quietly and professionally.

It demonstrates the level of his maturity and wisdom.

The Public Security Minister attempted to polish the uncouth act by stating he hopes to re-engage him at some point. I can bet my bottom dollar, those words are weightless and meaningless. It is just a failed attempt at a cover up statement.

NEWS 5

WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

One dead, 2 others being treated following bee attack at Imbaimadai The body of the late Donald McIntosh being taken to the morgue as resdients looks

D

onald McIntosh is now dead, and Raymond Oselmo and Tyrone Charles are being treated for stings they received after being attacked by a swarm of Africanized bees at Imbaimadai, Region Seven, on Tuesday last.

The three miners were reportedly driving an excavator along a trail in the Imbaimadai area when they encountered a tree that blocked their path.

They used the excavator to push down the tree, but were attacked by swarms of Africanized bees that were inhabiting a hive in the tree.

Panicking, McIntosh allegedly ran into the nest while his two companions ran in the opposite direction. His body was found sometime later.

It is believed that when McIntosh jumped off the excavator, his foot got stuck in “quicksand”, and this detained him long enough for the bees

to concentrate their attack on him.

After getting out of the quicksand, McIntosh reportedly ran a short distance before collapsing.

His companions recalled hearing him screaming for help for more than an hour before he finally went silent, but they claim they were afraid to go to his assistance.

This was reportedly the second time that McIntosh had had an encounter with Africanized bees. His body is at the Bartica Regional Hospital awaiting a post mortem.

Apiculturists from Kingdom Apiary have since been called in to capture the bees, and they have reportedly removed several hives, which will be harvested for honey.

Linden Stewart has said this attack underscores the need for miners to receive urgent training regarding how to operate when attacked by bees.

Guyana’s TIP rating jumps to Tier 1

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uyana can now boast as a country that has made headway in the fight against Trafficking in Persons (TIP), according to the newly released US State Department Trafficking in Persons 2017 Report. The report bumps Guyana from Tier 2 to Tier 1 on the TIP Index.

The upgrade means that the country has been able to implement the recommendations made in the 2016 report and satisfied the minimum requirements of the United States’ Trafficking Victims Protection Act. Guyana is a source and destination country for men, women, and children subjected to sex trafficking and forced labour in mining, agriculture, forestry, domestic service and shops. The report stated that for the past five years women and children from Guyana, Brazil, The Dominican Republic, Suriname, and Venezuela are subjected to sex trafficking in mining communities in the interior and urban areas.

It also identifies that while both sex trafficking and forced labour occurs in interior mining communities, limited Government presence in those areas makes the extent of trafficking unknown. It added that corruption within the Police Force also hinders anti-trafficking efforts.

The Social Protection Ministry has been the lead agency responsible for tackling trafficking and overseeing the work of the Anti-Trafficking Unit (ATU).

The Government was commended on the establishment of the inter-ministerial taskforce, which in collaboration with various stakeholders coordinated several suc-

cessful anti-trafficking operations.

In 2016, the Government reported 19 trafficking investigations, 19 prosecutions, and two convictions; compared to 15 trafficking investigations, seven prosecutions, and one conviction in 2015, and seven investigations, four prosecutions, and one conviction in 2014.

While the report notes the accomplishments, it also identifies Government’s failure to increase protection and services for victims outside of Georgetown as well as the provision of adequate protection and shelter for child and male victims.

“The Government reported identifying 98 trafficking victims in 2016 (80 for sex trafficking and 18 for labour trafficking), compared with 56 in 2015. An NGO reported the Government referred 40 victims to shelter and psycho-social services in 2016, compared with 17 victims in 2015,” the report stated.

The Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with an anti-trafficking non-governmental organisation (NGO) during the previous reporting period and committed public funding for the provision of enhanced psychosocial services to adult female trafficking victims referred by the Government.

However, the Government never

honoured its commitment; rather it gave G$13 million to another NGO that provided housing and counselling services to victims of gender-based violence, including an unknown number of trafficking victims, the report highlighted.

Guyana was put in the spotlight for its lack of adequate public or private shelters for male or child trafficking victims, despite the Government’s commitment, made in early 2016, to open and partially fund a shelter for male victims. Child trafficking victims are placed in nonspecialised shelters, and child victims identified in rural areas were placed in holding cells overnight without food before being transferred to the capital for shelter.

Recommendations

In order to become fully prepared to tackle TIP, several initiatives have to be taken. The report recommends the funding of specialised victim services; vigorously investigate and prosecute sex and labour trafficking cases; train law enforcement, judiciary officials, and frontline responders – especially those working outside the capital – on victim identification and referral procedures and finalise the written identification procedures to better guide law enforcement officials.

It also recommends Guyana provide additional protection for victims to enable them to testify against traffickers in a way that minimizes re-traumatisation; record the number of cases reported to the trafficking hotline to promote a rapid investigative and victim assistance response; and provide training for diplomatic personnel on human trafficking.

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WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

On what basis was Mr Should citizens not be worried James Singh dismissed? about municipal officials Dear Editor, Permit me to register my concern and disappointment on a matter in which I am of the view that it is deemed worrying, in respect to the future political directional dimension our country is heading. This reference is specific to the unjust and unfair egregious politically motivated act of the manner in which the now former head of CANU, James Singh, was relieved of his duties – a portfolio which he held for almost a decade.

During his tenure, he executed his mandate in the highest degree of professionalism and integrity.

The Government when it was in Opposition, they never criticised the workings of CANU under Singh’s leadership; in fact, they renewed his contract for another three years after successfully bringing down one of the country’s biggest drug lords.

CANU successfully executed and achieved its mandate – a notion validated by the fact that Guyana was never listed or blacklisted as one of the failed states within which it has failed in the combating efforts against drug trafficking.

He had a zero tolerance approach on corruption and though he is no longer at the helm of the institution, he has left a

well-trained and competent team. How is such an act befitting of a man of his calibre in light of the commendable service he has given to his country?

A shameless act on the part of the Government – he does not deserve this.

I would like to urge the Government to reconsider this and confer upon him the dignity and respect he commands.

There were absolutely no solid grounds and basis for such a decision. The Public Security Minister cited that it was all part of a restructuring programme developed to strengthen the institution – stemming from some vaguely cited recommendations. This is blatantly appalling against the background that, the Government expended over G$50 million in three months on a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the affairs of the Guyana Sugar Corporation.

Arising from the findings and recommendations therein, the Government saw it best to pursue a path contrary to the recommendations of the CoI despite expending millions of taxpayers’ money to have it done. Thus, given the current policies and adversities the country is now facing with the downsizing of the industry – closure of sugar estates – it must be

mentioned that those were not the recommendations put forward by the CoI. The question is why then, did the Government waste in excess of G$50 million?

And if it didn’t see it fit to implement those recommendations – why are they implementing a vaguely referenced recommendation? By whom were these recommendations made and what added value will it bring to the entity?

It would appear that these are all carefully crafted plans by the Government of the day which are in keeping with their own hidden political agenda and pursuits. What could be their agenda, we must ask ourselves as patriotic citizens and seek to derive plausible answers. I must commend James Singh for the way in which he received this politically unscrupulous act against him, very calmly, quietly and professionally. It demonstrates the level of his maturity and wisdom.

The Public Security Minister attempted to polish the uncouth act by stating he hopes to re-engage him at some point. I can bet my bottom dollar, those words are weightless and meaningless. It is just a failed attempt at a cover up statement.

Yours faithfully, Financial economist

Trotman should apologise for his despicable behaviour in Parliament

Dear Editor, I watch the news often, but was shocked and flabbergasted when I saw the recent behaviour of Minister Raphael Trotman in Parliament. In that debate, Trotman’s behaviour towards former President Bharrat Jagdeo was very disrespectful. His tone of voice and his arrogance leaves much to be desired. He behaves as if his Coalition Government will rule forever, and he is some sort of a God, holding power forever.

Though Mr Trotman was raving and ranting like a delirious man, the Speaker of the House failed to dispense his duties by stopping him or cautioning him to tone down his voice against Mr Jagdeo. It tells

me clearly that we have no discipline in Parliament, and this sets a bad example to the citizens of this nation. Mr Trotman, who happens to be a Christian, failed to conduct himself properly in Parliament.

He sets a bad example of Christianity to the other honourable members of the House who are Hindus and Muslims. I believe he should be disciplined for his cantankerous and arrogant behaviour.

In Parliament they refer to each other as honourable member.

The word ‘’honourable” can be defined as: bringing or worthy of honour; honest, moral, ethical, principled, righteous, right-minded; decent, respectable, estimable, virtu-

ous, good, upstanding, upright, worthy, noble, fair, just, truthful, trustworthy, law-abiding, reliable, reputable, creditable, dependable, illustrious, distinguished, eminent, great, glorious, renowned, acclaimed, prestigious, noble, creditable, admirable, “an honourable man.”

From the definition given above, since our Parliamentarians here are calling each other ‘’honourable members’’ in their debate, I believe our erudite Attorney-at-law Mr Trotman failed to comprehend the meaning of the word honourable when I watched his despicable behaviour on national television.

Yours faithfully, Rev Gideon Cecil

wasting scarce resources?

Dear Editor, There has quite recently been much rumpus about the Government of Guyana renting a five-bedroom house for G$500,000 per month for a junior minister, along with covering unlimited VAT, inclusive of electricity consumption.

And one can understand why, as the Government is calling on the citizens to tighten their belts, to conserve and to reuse stationery, etc. But, quite frankly, this opulence pales in comparison to the overindulgence occurring at City Hall.

How could one cry out for paying G$500,000 per month for a luxurious mansion in a swanky neighbourhood, when the Council doles out a whopping G$82,000 per month, which has now been increased to over G$90,000 per month, for a simple plastic porta-

ble toilet each?

Should citizens not be concerned about the first class travel around the world by municipal officials, who are nowhere near ministerial level? Should they not be concerned about officials having bodyguards as if they are prime ministers or presidents? Static security at their residences; chauffeurs, gardeners, personal assistants and many attendants?

Should citizens not be worried about municipal officials wasting scarce resources on pointless retreats to grand resorts; hosting pageants, hat shows and expos whilst the ordinary staff members there cannot get their vacation allowances or salaries on time?

When will a complete forensic audit of City Hall’s books be done?

Sincerely, Mark Roopan

Citizens dissatisfied with Govt’s handling of oil Dear Editor, An opinion poll conducted earlier this month by the North American Caribbean Teachers Association to gauge public views on varied contemporary issues found a population very dissatisfied with Government’s handling of the oil contract, economy, sugar and rice industries, crime, corruption, race relations, and several other issues considered critical to national development.

The composition of the respondents (430) reflected the general demographic diversity of the population (41 per cent Indians, 31 per cent Africans, 17 per cent Mixed, 10 per cent Amerindians, one per cent others). The poll was conducted by this writer. There was a margin of error of four per cent.

The eligible voting public in the survey identified several issues of paramount importance to the nation – crime, poor governance, the economy (increasing unemployment, rising cost of living, declining business, lack of circulation of money, etc), corruption, racism, ascending use of illegal drugs, soaring taxation, growing alcoholism, and domestic abuse as among the major problems afflicting the nation.

Queried which is the most important problem, nearly every respondent said the problems are all equally important and are inter-related. They noted that each problem critically impacts on national development. When

pinned down to identify the one that they feel needs urgent attention, 40 per cent said the economy, followed by 20 per cent who said racism, 18 per cent crime, and 10 per cent corruption.

Asked if they think the Government is racist, 54 per cent (mostly PPP and AFC supporters) said yes, with 40 per cent (mostly PNC supporters) saying no.

Asked if they are satisfied with the Government’s handling of the economy, 62 per cent said no, with only 30 per cent saying yes.

Some 60 per cent said the country is not moving in the right direction, as compared with 31 per cent who said it is going in the right direction. Some 58 per cent of the surveyed sample feel the Government has been condoning “corruption” since it came into office two years ago. Some 72 per cent of the country feels the APNU/AFC government has been too secretive in its conduct of national affairs; 14 per cent are satisfied with the limited amount of information provided by the Government on its policies and contracts. Some 78 per cent of the population (including large numbers of APNU/AFC supporters) feel the Government should release the Exxon oil contract to the public; only 13 per cent supports the Government’s position in not divulging the details of the oil contract.

And just 22 per cent are satisfied with the Government’s effort at

combating crime.

Asked if they support the planned closure of several sugar estates, 60 per cent said no, with 28 per cent (primarily PNC supporters) saying yes. Almost everyone in the sugar estates feel none of the estates should be closed. Sugar workers feel the estates and GuySuCo can be profitable if properly run, and not used as a political football.

Asked if closed sugar estate lands should be given to terminated (unemployed) sugar workers for agricultural production, a significant majority (58 per cent) say yes, with 25 per cent (primarily PNC supporters) saying no, and the others saying they are not sure.

Every respondent in Wales and the greater West Demerara area said the Wales estate land should be given to sugar estate workers to rehabilitate the sugar industry, or be used for farming.

Rice farmers throughout the country express a serious concern that the Government is not helping them; and worse, has been undermining the rice industry. Asked if they agree with the view (of Government neglect of rice industry) as expressed by rice farmers, 52 per cent in the national survey said yes, in contrast with 37 per cent who said no.

The poll also queried respondents on other issues; those findings will be released in a subsequent report.

Sincerely, Vishnu Bisram

news 7

WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Man “accidentally” ExxonMobil contracts shoots wife Dutch company to install, in stomach operate floating base – while clearing firearm

A

housewife of Bougainvillea Park, East Bank Demerara (EBD) is nursing a single gunshot injury at the Georgetown Public Hospital after her husband’s gun “accidentally” went off. The incident occurred about 02:30h on Monday.

This newspaper understands that the 50-year-old victim and her 60-year-old husband had just returned from a function and upon entering the house, the woman went to take a shower.

As she was done, she went into the bedroom and upon doing so, she heard an explosion followed by a burning sensation in her abdomen.

As she looked clos-

er, she realised that she was bleeding profusely. She was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where she was admitted.

Her husband, who is a licensed firearm holder, told detectives that he was clearing the bullets from his weapon when it accidentally went off.

He only became aware that his wife was shot when she screamed for help. He confirmed that she was shot to her abdomen and without hesitation, he rushed her to the Hospital.

Her condition is regarded as stable. The man is being questioned by Police, and his firearm has been lodged.

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xxonMobil, the US-based oil giant gearing for production offshore Guyana, has handed a major contract to a Dutch based company to install and operate its floating producing and storage base for its Liza oil field in Guyana.

The company — SBM Offshore –made the official announcement on Monday saying under the contract it will construct, install, lease and operate a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading Vessel (FPSO).

This follows completion of front-end engineering studies and the final investment decision on the project by ExxonMobil, according to the company.

The FPSO is said to be designed to produce up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day, will have associated gas treatment capacity of about 170 million cubic feet per day

Self-harm initiative to further reduce suicide prevalence Mental Health Unit Director

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ental Health Unit Director, Dr Util Richmond-Thomas said that owing to the alarming number of self-harm cases, the decision has been taken to launch “The National Self-Harm Surveillance” project come July.

“If we can get the majority of self-harm and depression cases treated, we can drastically reduce the suicide rate,” the Director was quoted as saying in an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA).

Self-harming cases are also known as non-suicidal self-injury.

Dr Richmond-Thomas explained that in Region Three (West DemeraraEssequibo Islands) alone, 93 self-harm cases have already been recorded for 2017. Thirty suicide deaths were officially recorded at the West Demerara Regional Hospital for the same period.

The National Self- Harm Surveillance project will be launched initially in Regions Two, Three and Six, mainly because those regions have the highest suicide rates.

“Self-harm is the strongest indicator of future suicide,” Dr Richmond-Thomas stat-

Director of the Mental Health Unit Dr. Util Richmond-Thomas.

ed. According to the GINA release, she further explained that many persons who commit suicide would have had several incidents of selfharm in their past. “It means, therefore, that if the self-harm was being treated while it was occurring, it may not have led to suicide.”

The Programme Director, in explaining how the project would work, said all cases of self-harm must be reported to the Mental Health Unit within one week of presentation.

Once reported, persons will then have to see a psychiatrist or mhGAP (mental health GAP-IG) doctor. There are over 40 mhGAP doctors locally. Each case will receive psychotherapy by a psychologist and be followed up by a social worker until they are no longer high-risk patients.

The Unit will also be implementing a selfharm screening tool, which is a questionnaire.

The questionnaire will aid in the fight against suicide. The pilot screening tool is expected to be rolled out in three major hospitals in Regions Two, Three and Six soon.

“Making sure they (patients) are properly treated will just ensure that they have better quality of life,” Dr Richmond-Thomas added. She said the Unit’s drive to battle suicide was “well on its way”, with the Public Health Ministry rolling out several mental health projects.

“The National SelfHarm Surveillance follows closely on the heels of the mhGAP Intervention Guide programme, which recently saw non-specialised doctors trained with the necessary skills and knowledge to better screen patients and provide diagnostic assessment for persons living with mental health illnesses.

This programme seeks to provide efficient care at primary health-care facilities across the nation. This programme is part Guyana’s National Mental Health Action Plan 2015-2020.

and water injection capacity of about 200,000 barrels per day.

The floating base will be moored at a depth of 1525 meters and will be able to store 1.6 million barrels of crude oil at a given time.

Making the announcement, SBM’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Bruno Chabas said, “We are proud that ExxonMobil awarded SBM Offshore the contracts for the Liza FPSO.” He observed that the ExxonMobil Liza Field offshore Guyana was one of the industry’s largest oil discoveries of the past decade, and “we look forward to cooperating closely with our client and partners to make this project a success”.

According to Chabas, “this award underlines SBM Offshore’s continued focus on building on our experience, our longterm relationships and FPSO-led strategic vision.”

The decision to award the contract by ExxonMobil comes on the heels of the company being awarded its Production Licence from the Guyana Government.

SBM’s Chief Executive Officer, Bruno Chabas

The acceleration towards production offshore Guyana follows major discoveries in Guyana in May 2015 and June 2016 of “worldclass resources”, possibly the largest over the last two years.

“A small team worked more than a year designing and executing a plan that had now brought us to the brink of what could be a major discovery,” ExxonMobil’s Guyana Basin Project Manager said, at the time of the Liza-1 well discovery.

SBM Offshore is a listed holding company headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands that provides floating production

services to the offshore energy industry.

The company is regarded as one of the leading firms in leased floating production systems with multiple units currently in operation.

The company’s main activities are the design, supply, installation, operation and the life extension of FPSO vessels.

These are either owned and operated by SBM Offshore and leased to its clients or supplied on a turnkey sale basis.

Only recently, the Guyana Parliament was updated by Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman, who had said the Stabroek Basin offshore Guyana, where exploration activities are currently underway, holds potentially two billion barrels of recoverable oil. He said, too, Government has drafted an Upstream and Local Content Policy in anticipation of the start of production in 2020.

Trotman was at the time piloting the Petroleum Bill 2017, which has since been sent to a Special Select Committee of the Guyana Parliament for further consultations.

8 news

WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Cyclist killed in Berbice accident Ramotar says Coalition Gov’t continues to engage in A massive “spending splurge”

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overnment’s increased spending has not gone unnoticed and one individual who has been fervently condemning this flagrant action says that President David Granger and his ministers of Government could only be best described as a bureaucratic capitalist elites.

Former President Donald Ramotar said this description best suits the current administration allegedly because they don’t have businesses but they are using Government as a means of getting rich, quickly. Ramotar said there are countless examples to point to, over their short stint so far in office.

“We saw from the very onset that this regime is more interested in giving them the good life. When they talk about the good life, they are not really interested in the ordinary people having a good life, this good life that they see for themselves and that is their object of getting into power,” he opined.

Ramotar recalled that the first step taken by the Government which drew the attention of the Guyanese people is the fact that they moved to increase their own salaries by more than 50 percent and also increased the number of Government ministries, which also assisted with driving up spending.

“The unproductive sector of the Government has been growing at leaps and bounds. So, a lot of these have been given. Travel allowance has gone up tremendously from US$25 per day to now US$300.

And a lot of them are not accounting for this money when they go overseas,” he added.

Former President, Donald Ramotar

The former head of state is convinced that the Government is no doubt engaged in a massive “spending splurge” which is increasing administrative costs. He said the issue has been compounded with them (Government) placing a cap on ministers’ housing allowance which has been increased to G$500,000.

In criticizing the recent revelation made about that same housing allowance for ministers, Ramotar said he sees this as another critical example of how the Government is going about spending money from the public’s purse, wildly and irresponsibly, on things that could have been avoided.

He said, “Now half a million dollars a month is a huge increase and it shows how they are using the state apparatus to enrich themselves in a very short period of time. They are amassing a vast amount of wealth in just two years.

I think it is ridiculous the way everybody is going about just wasting government’s money.”

Government has been renting a house from businessman/politician, Peter Ramsaroop, for Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, while another is being rented

for Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Valerie Adams-Patterson.

Broomes apartment rent is G$500,000 monthly.

The issue came to light after Ramsaroop sued the minister, the Parliament and the Attorney General over her alleged failure to pay three months’ rent.

Ramsaroop’s attorneys contended that Parliament Office, on Broomes’s behalf, had entered into a tenancy agreement whose duration was the February, 1 2016 to February, 1 2017.

They further claimed that in breach of this agreement, Broomes gave 30 days written notice to terminate the tenancy on September 19, 2016 and thereafter vacated and delivered up possession of the premises on or around October 31, 2016.

They, therefore, claim unpaid rent for November and December 2016 and January, 2017, totaling US$7,500.

Meanwhile, Ramotar also pointed to other cases where the Government has been engaged in what he described as wasteful spending. He recalled that Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Basil Williams, allegedly refused to use the car he inherited from the previous Government and instead, requested a new vehicle which costed Government a substantial sum of cash.

Reference was also made to the coalition Government spending G$22 million to acquire a customised luxury Land Cruiser for Prime Minister, Mosses Nagamootoo, which was added to his existing fleet of 22 vehicles. This occurred only four months after the new Government took up office.

cyclist of Line Path, Skeldon, Berbice died on Tuesday when a motor lorry which was attempting to overtake him on the Skeldon Public Road struck him.

Dead is Yatambeo Hiralall, 59, of Lot 7 Line Path, Skeldon.

Reports are the accident occurred about 19:30h on Monday evening as the man was riding with his birds.

Guyana Times International was told that Hiralal was proceeding north along the Skeldon Public Road while motor lorry BKK 7698 was proceeding in the same direction.

The motor lorry, which was at the time being driven by a 76-yearold man of Rampoor Village, Corentyne, failed to overtake the cyclist and struck him from behind.

The man after being hit was reportedly thrown some distance from his bicycle.

An eyewitness told

Dead: Yatambeo Hiralal

the media that he heard a loud noise and immediately rushed to investigate when he saw Hiralall lying next to a drain, with his bicycle on the parapet.

He was picked up and rushed to the Skeldon Hospital in an unconscious state but succumbed to his injuries at about 23:00h.

Speaking with this publication, the dead man’s wife, Ramdai Hiralall related that her husband left home at about 18:00h to “ride out his birds”. The grieving woman said she was finishing up her chores

when she was informed that her husband was at the hospital.

She related that she rushed to the medical facility where she saw him.

“He didn’t get none injury outside, the doctor seh he get internal injury and that he nah get head injury,” the woman said.

According to her the doctors at the Skeldon Hospital informed her that Hiralall would have to be transfer to the New Amsterdam Hospital.

However there was no available ambulance at the time.

“Me ask where the ambulance deh but the doctor say about forty minutes more and by time that the doctor come out and tell me he dead.,” the grieving woman related.

Hiralall leaves to mourn his two children and wife.

The driver of the motor lorry was taken into Police custody as investigations into the incident continues.

I have always been available to SOCU, says Brassington

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ormer Head of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), Winston Brassington has debunked a recent newspaper article that claimed that officials of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) are actively looking to question him in relation to an audit done at the company.

Brassington, in a letter to the editor, said he found it strange that the business of SOCU was being discussed with the media when no effort has been made to contact him, and dubbed the newspaper article inaccurate and false.

“I note that this is not the first time this has happened. Earlier newspaper articles relating to the forensic audits reveal a pattern of collusion between SOCU and certain media (personnel), where matters supposedly under investigation are divulged to select sections of the media and published in a one-sided manner,” he remarked.

The former NICIL Head recalled that the final forensic audit reports on NICIL and Atlantic Hotel Inc (AHI) were serially leaked, weeks before they were released to the NICIL Board of Directors, which in his view was prejudicial to a fair and impartial process.

“Regarding SOCU “actively” seeking me,

Former NICIL Head Winston Brassington

I find it strange, when over a year ago, on April 14, 2016, the attached letter was dispatched by my attorneys to the Head of SOCU, Lt Colonel Sydney James, with a copy to the Commissioner of Police (CoP), with both offices signing for receipt of the letter,” he added.

Brassington also recalled that it was made clear that despite being out of the jurisdiction, he would be available to fully cooperate with any investigation and provide evidence by affidavit or video conference as was necessary to facilitate any enquiries, through his attorney, Mark Waldron.

“To date, no request has been submitted to my attorneys,” he asserted.

Further, since Brassington’s resignation in 2016, NICIL had sought assistance from him on various matters via email, with which

he has assisted. He also made reference to a case in 2015, when his team responded paragraph by paragraph to the preliminary forensic audit reports. “In December 2015, I addressed many issues via a press conference in the boardroom of NICIL. I pointed out that NICIL was audited every year under my watch, and clean audit opinions issued. I recall even attending a shareholders meeting of NICIL in 2015 under the current Government, where the 2013 audited accounts were approved,” he stated.

The former NICIL Head, therefore, argued that due process should be followed on matters of interest to SOCU involving him, as he believed that any questions not already answered in prior audit responses or the various publications issued over the years can reasonably be responded to.

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WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Woman found next to husband’s Early budget meaningless corpse commits suicide if measures do not

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In happier times: Kevin Dawson and Cindy Persaud-Dawson

hree weeks after 28-year-old school teacher Cindy Persaud-Dawson was found lying next to the decomposing body of her 35-year-old miner husband Kevin Dawson in the home they shared at Lot 7 Hugh Ghanie Park, Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara, this young widow, on Monday morning, was found hanging from a rafter in a bedroom in her father’s home at Charity, on the Essequibo Coast.

Cindy PersaudDawson had reportedly become emotionally unstable after her husband’s death, and had returned to her father’s house at Charity River’s Dam, Essequibo Coast, to recuperate from the ordeal of losing her husband.

Guyana Times International understands that since the death of her husband Kevin Dawson, Cindy Persaud-Dawson had been acting in an abnormal manner, although

she had not displayed any suicidal tendencies.

She and her husband had reportedly shared a very close bond, and his demise had reportedly been very traumatising for her.

This newspaper understands that Cindy was being treated for the trauma she had experienced, and had undergone psychiatric evaluation by a team from the psychiatric clinic of the Georgetown Public Hospital, which determined that she was suffering from severe psychiatric trauma.

Relatives promised to take her to the psychiatric clinic for further treatment and counselling, in order to help her cope with the loss, but this never materialised.

Doctors at the clinic feel that the incident could have been prevented if she had sought the necessary treatment.

Based on reports received, the woman was last seen alive by her brother at about 23:00h

on Sunday, when she was looking at television. However, when the young man woke up on Monday morning at about 5:00h and was about to use the washroom, he discovered his sister’s motionless body hanging from the rafter via an electrical extension cord.

The former teacher attached to the Turkeyen Nursery School was described by her colleagues as a very caring individual. Her body was taken the Suddie Hospital mortuary awaiting a post mortem, but the police have since confirmed that there were no visible signs or marks of violence on her body.

Dr Util Thomas, Director of the GPHC Mental Health Unit, told this publication last week that poor coping skills are the major cause for suicides in Guyana.

Recap

Cindy PersaudDawson was discovered in an unconscious state on June 5 last, lying next to the corpse of her husband, Kevin Dawson.

She was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where she spent some time before being discharged. The post mortem performed on her husband’s man’s body proved that he died from typhoid and malaria.

Woman on G$300,000 bail for exchanging fake US currency

Davis is expected back in court on June 21, 2017.

A

fter she raised a defence of mistaken identity, Shavon Davis was released on G$300,000 bail subsequent to her pleading not guilty to three counts of alleged fraud.

Magistrate Judy Latchman read the charge that the defendant, with intent to defraud, uttered six US$50 counterfeit notes to Virtual Complainant (VC) Marcia Lowenfield on June 21, 2017 in the Georgetown Magisterial District.

It is further alleged that Davis, with intent to defraud, obtained G$60,000 cash from the VC under the pretence that the uttered foreign bills were genuine.

Davis was also charged for being in possession of the forged US$50 bills without lawful authorisation.

Police Prosecutor Shawn Gonsalves, in presenting a synopsis of the incident, stated that on the day in question, the accused entered a fish shop at Kingston, Georgetown and purchased a GT beer.

Herein, she enquired from the VC if she could change US $900 for her to which the VC responded, saying she could only change US$300.

Following the exchange, it was discovered that the bills were fake and the defendant was arrested after the Police were notified.

benefit Guyanese

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November Budget will kick start Government’s spending way before the commencement of a new fiscal year and will lessen time available for parliamentary scrutiny, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has affirmed, while again criticising the David Granger-led Administration for the announcement of an early budget.

The Cabinet has decided in principle to advance the presentation of the National Budget one month before the new year, from November instead of January. The objective is to have the Budget constitutionally approved by Parliament and assented to by the President, and all allocations at different tiers disseminated, before the financial year begins on January 1.

The aim is that all spending authorities within the system and those financially dependent on Government would be in a position to work out their activities with assured resources in the beginning of the year without hesitation.

Government has said with annual financial resources approved and bestowed in November, a more planned and regulated expenditure profile during the year is expected.

But Jagdeo has said that there were many downsides to an early budget. The Opposition Leader thinks that presenting an early budget does not carry any meaning, if its contents are lacking many basic

Finance Minister, Winston Jordan

policies that are not catered for the upliftment and betterment of the Guyanese people.

“So, if you have an early budget that has a slew of new taxes and administrative measures that will bring hardships to people, push up their cost of living and create disincentives to the Private Sector, then all you are doing is bringing the hardships earlier,” he told a media conference on Tuesday.

“If the Budget is presented in November, the Minister comes to Parliament with estimates up to the end of the calendar year about spending. So, he will say I have actual numbers up to November 30 and I am estimating what it will be on December 31, which is our financial year,” he added.

According to him, referencing the first quarter’s financial report and what Finance Minister Winston Jordan said in Parliament last November when he presented the Budget about where the finances of the country would be on

December 31, it would be totally inaccurate.

“He spoke of a higher growth rate than the final growth rate. And the good thing about presenting a budget in January or February is that you have final numbers for the year,” he added.

The former Head of State said the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) was concerned that in presenting early budgets when there were two budgets running parallel, the Government would not necessarily close the budgets as was obtained in the past, from the month of November to December.

Cutting costs

The former Finance Minister and trained economist was also quick to point out that the Government needed to do as it said when it came to cutting costs. Jagdeo argued that while this was a constant message being spoken by President David Granger and members of his Cabinet, he was still to see this put into action, highlighting the many cases of overspending.

Budget consultation

Asked whether the Opposition is prepared to make an input into the next annual budget, Jagdeo responded that President Granger knows his party’s position on a number of key policy decisions taken over the past two years the coalition has been in Government and if the Opposition were invited, it would still maintain its position to have these policies removed.

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WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Gaskin urges small businesses to get ready to capitalise on benefits from oil and gas sector

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usiness Minister Dominic Gaskin told small business owners that they needed not to wait on oil, rather they have to prepare their businesses to provide services in order to capitalise on the benefits of the oil and gas sector.

“Everyone is talking about local content and the need for Guyanese to be involved in the opportunities that this new industry will create. As a Government, we cannot afford to wait for oil, we have to prepare for oil, and businesses, whether big or small, must also prepare themselves for oil and the impact of oil,” he said.

The Minister made the comments at the Small Business Development Finance Trust Inc (SBDF) Annual General Meeting on Monday at the Regency Hotel.

Gaskin said that small and micro enterprises were a key component of the economy and needed much attention from all stakeholders.

The Chairman’s report highlighted a further decline in vending which affected the SBDF’s performance. However, the Minister said that the decline should serve as a catalyst to rethink and reinvent the services offered.

“I think there has been an ease in spending, and we have to accept that for whatever reason people aren’t spending as

Business Minister, Dominic Gaskin

they used to; that doesn’t mean that people are not spending, it means that they are spending in other ways, so these situations are a chance to rethink, to refocus, and do things a little differently,” he advised.

Gaskin encouraged the business owners to know the needs of the market and to supply services based on those needs.

Additionally, he urged them to consider the foreign markets, since the local market is small and would not be able to satisfy their production rate.

SBDF Managing Director Manjula Brijmohan called for private and public partnerships to ensure the success of small entrepreneurs. She added that the small businesses needed much attention and there must be a strategic development plan to ensure their success.

“The local businesses must grow faster for there to be development. Local business must provide jobs and skills necessary to raise income and living standards to help rid of poverty. It requires strong local support and access to financial aid,” Brijmohan said.

SBDF is an agriculture-dominated financial institution, and is committed to moving fresh farm produce and transforming the waste into small-scale industrial products for export and local markets.

Brijmohan said that everything affected investments and the Government must assist in ensuring that there was a level playing field to facilitate those investments. She added that infrastructure and strategic support from the Government could not be overemphasised and called for better practices to ensure small businesses survive.

“We all need our voices to be heard and our partners to get in the playing ground and come and play the game of moving upward. We are tired of talking poverty. Guyana has no need to be called a poverty-ridden country; you have so much resource, you have little bit of people and yet you can’t use it?

So catch yourself and get on,” she expressed.

The SBDF also awarded its outstanding clients at the function.

Young writers’ programme aims to promote creativity

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eachers, along with students between the ages of 13 and 19, were the target of a Youth Empowerment Programme for Youth Writers aimed at revitalising Guyana’s publishing and writing industry.

The programme is being rolled out by the Office of the Presidential Advisor on Youth Empowerment in collaboration with the Education Ministry.

Programme Director Alisha Layne said more than 260 students have benefited from the programme. The schools which participated in the programme included 15 schools from Georgetown, nine from East Coast Demerara, six from East Bank Demerara, and 12 from West Coast Demerara.

Layne noted that the students and teachers were taught the art of writing and producing magazine articles. The response from teachers and, more importantly, the students were positive, especially from students of rural schools, according to Layne.

“The feedback all around have been generally good, so we are proud of the work that we would have done and we really hope that we can actually complete it in the way that we would want it to be completed, so that these students could have an opportunity upon leaving school to have something to

do, (which is) geared towards developing themselves, their communities and each other,” Layne explained.

She added, “You have students who are not, I would not want to say very smart but we have those students who academically they do not excel, but artistically they are very, very gifted. There are students who cannot do a math sum to save their life; there are students who cannot understand a simple equation, but if you give them a pen and a piece of paper, they can write a piece of poetry, they can create a masterpiece in English and so this project basically is one that the teachers welcome because they can use it to channel those ability in those students.”

However, Layne noted that they were faced with a number of challenges during the course of the programme. One of the main challenges, according to her, was having teachers and students being released to attend training sessions during school hours. To address the problem, Layne explained that they were seeking to have the Education Ministry adopt the programme so that it would become a timetabled subject.

Layne explained that “the school term is basically 12 weeks; we can have a successful programme run in eight weeks because the actual contact

Programme Director Alisha Layne

hours for the training, it takes just about one teaching period and so if we can have it for one period, which is just about 45 minutes of school time; if we can have this done in schools at the individual level for one period per day, maybe two days per week in each school, then at the end of six weeks we would have completed the entire young writers manual, so that gives them two weeks to complete their articles.”

While the current programme targets mainly schools on the coast, the overall aim is to have it in all the schools countrywide, as it is also a programme which is geared at equipping young people with a skill which they can use to create jobs for themselves. The programme was launched in November 2016. (GINA)

UK commits to closer ties with Caricom

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Caricom Secretary General Irwin LaRocque welcomes UK High Commissioner to the Eastern Caribbean and Caricom, Janet Douglas

ven as the United Kingdom continues to face its fair share of challenging events, it has committed to closer relations with the Caribbean Community (Caricom).

New UK High Commissioner to the Eastern Caribbean and Caricom, Janet Douglas said last Thursday that her country wanted to infuse fresh vigour into its relations with the Region.

She was at the time presenting her Letter of Credence to Caricom Secretary General, Irwin LaRocque, at the Caricom Secretariat, Greater Georgetown, Guyana.

In the wake of recent acts of terrorism in the UK, LaRocque placed on record the Community’s unreserved condemnation of orchestrated attacks perpetrated against innocent civilians.

He said: “Caricom joins its voice to that of the international community in condemning terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

Such disruptive and vicious acts underscore the need for the international community to deepen cooperation in the battle against terrorism.”

LaRocque also extended sincere condolences to the UK for the loss of lives and homes owing to the disastrous fire at Grenfell Tower in West London in the early hours of June 14.

According to the new UK envoy, it was indeed “a sombre and challenging time” for Britain, but hope was inspired by the message of Her Majesty the Queen on her official birthday, when she said, “Put to the test, the United Kingdom has been resolute in the face of adversity”.

That spirit of resolve, she said, is one that was shared with Caricom to promote common values such as respect for human rights, the rule of law, and a determination to protect the fragile environment.

LaRocque stated his appreciation for Britain’s strategic support of issues relating to climate change. Noting that the Caribbean had been designated as the most natural disaster-prone region in the world, he said most member states bore a heavy debt burden from rebuilding after major climatic events, which were more frequent and more intense.

Against this backdrop, he said Caricom continues to advocate for development partners to revisit their policies on graduating vulner-

able countries out of access to concessionary development financing. The use of per capita income as the primary criterion for access, the Secretary General said, was inadequate, adding that vulnerability must be factored in. He further appealed to the UK to include vulnerability of Caricom countries in reconsidering the eligibility criteria for access to the Infrastructure Fund it has allocated to countries of the region.

The Secretary General also raised the issues regarding the blacklisting of Caricom countries as non-cooperative tax jurisdictions, de-risking and the withdrawal of correspondent banking relationships by some international banks.

He urged the UK — a key player in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the European Union (EU) – to communicate the positions of global financial authorities which have affirmed the financial integrity of Caricom countries.

Meanwhile, Douglas said that the UK would continue to collaborate with its Caricom partners to combat threats to their collective security, such as narcotic trafficking and other international organised crime.

As her country negotiates its departure from the EU, she assured that it will retain close relationships with European partners.

The new envoy pledged that along with other British High Commissioners in the Region, she would work to manage the implications of Brexit for Caricom, particularly in the areas of trade and development.

Looking forward to the April 2018 Commonwealth Summit, Douglas signalled the UK’s desire to work with Caricom to ensure its success.

“The Summit will provide a platform on which to set a new vision of a strong and effective Commonwealth. It offers the opportunity to re-energise the Commonwealth, so that it better upholds its shared democratic values and delivers greater security and prosperity to its citizens,” Douglas said.

After the accreditation, LaRocque and Douglas further discussed the challenges of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and security, as well as preparations for the Commonwealth Summit and the UK-Caribbean Forum in 2018.

WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Canje man commits suicide on birthday

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he lifeless body of cane harvester Suresh Singh, also called ‘Black Boy’, was discovered by his brother hanging by an electrical cord at his Workshop Street, Canefield, East Canje Berbice home on Monday morning at about 8:00h.

Singh had occupied the upper flat of the two-storey building where his body was found, while his elder brother lived in the lower flat with his wife and children.

According to the dead man’s sister-inlaw, 22-year-old Ameena Majid, the late Suresh Singh celebrated his 38th birthday on Sunday last by going out and having “a few beers,” before returning home in the afternoon and going to his apartment in the upper flat of the house.

“He didn’t say (anything) to anybody,” she declared, adding: “He just go upstairs and nah say nothing. We nah see he back for the rest of the night, and we nah hear nothing.”

Majid said that her husband went to the upper flat, at about 8:00h, in an ef-

fort to install an antenna on the roof of the building. He saw the door to his brother’s apartment ajar and thought this surprising, so he went into the apartment — and discovered his brother’s lifeless body hanging from a rafter by an electrical cord.

Majid disclosed that her brother-inlaw had never spoken of having any issue which may have affected him. “He was always good with everyone; he never tell we his problems,” she explained.

The late Suresh Singh had never been married. Some residents of the community have revealed that he had expressed how much he had been missing his mother, who passed away a few months ago. (Andrew Carmichael)

Works on West Dem highway expansion moving apace

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espite heavy rainfall, works on the West Demerara road expansion project is moving apace with almost 70 per cent of the project completed.

This is according to the Public Infrastructure Ministry Permanent Secretary, Geoffrey Vaughn.

“There is still some amount of slow truancy of the project in terms of progress and the reasons for that, at this time, is the rainfall. We also hav-

A section of the West Demerara Road

ing some utility [poles relocation] issues and issues with vendors from Vreeden-Hoop [Stelling Road],” Vaughn said during a recent interview.

However, efforts are being made to have those issues addressed.

The G$8.4 billion (US$42 million) project was commissioned in 2015, and scheduled to be completed in the latter part of 2018; however, if the bad weather continued, that deadline may not be met.

Works are being carried

out by BK Engineering and a Jamaican engineering company, Surrey Paving and Aggregate.

The work entails the improvement of approximately 30.7 kilometres of the West Coast Demerara Road from Vreed-en-Hoop to Hydronie, East Bank Essequibo just about one mile east of Parika.

The project is funded by a loan agreement between the Government of Guyana and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

When completed, the roadway will facilitate increased efficiency and safety. Ongoing works include the rehabilitation of pavements, road widening and provision of additional highway lights and replacement of the Groenveldt Bridge.

Man placed on G$2M bail for embezzlement

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hirty-two-yearold Apollos Manoharlall of Alexander Village Georgetown, an employee of the ANSA McAL Group of Companies, was on Monday arraigned in City Magistrate Judy Latchman’s court on five counts of embezzlement that involved more than G$22 million.

The first charge alleges that on March 24, 2017, at Georgetown, while employed as a clerk at ANSA McAL, he fraudulently embezzled G$6,365,000, cash taken into possession by himself in the name of ANSA McAL Limited, property of ANSA McAL. Another charge alleges that between March 17 and April 7, 2017, he fraudulently embezzled more than G$16,476,000,

cash taken into possession by himself, property of the said company.

Manoharlall pleaded not guilty to all the charges read to him by the magistrate.

The court heard that the accused was arrested on Wednesday last and released on station bail the following day; but was re-arrested on Friday, and had since been in Police custody.

Manoharlall’s legal counsel, Attorney-at-law Sase Gunraj, in an application for bail for his client, said the defendant was willing to surrender his passport, thus restricting any possibility or risk of flight. He contended that the Police have thus far taken no statements from the company (ANSA McAL), and disclosed that his client

Apollos Manoharlall

had only last Friday appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce in an unrelated matter, which was promptly dismissed.

This newspaper understands also that, to date, the accused has not been notified of any termination of service by the plaintiff company.

The accused was placed on a total of G$2 million bail, G$400,000 for each charge, and is expected to face Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on July 17.

news 11

Next stop for “City Hall in Your Borough” is Queens M

ayor de and

Bill Blasio Queens Borough President Melinda Katz earlier this week announced "City Hall in Your Borough" will land in Queens on Monday, July 17. This will be the initiative's third stop, following Staten Island and the Bronx.

According to a media statement from the Mayor’s office, Mayor de Blasio, deputy mayors, and senior Administration officials will run the city from Queens Borough Hall for a week to focus on the borough's people and their concerns. The week will include a cabinet meeting, resource fair and town hall, as well as various stops and events throughout the borough.

"As we move City Hall from borough to borough, we hope to continue building a closer relationship between New Yorkers and their city government," said Mayor Bill de Blasio. "In Queens, we will continue focusing city resourc-

Mayor Bill de Blasio

es on the borough's most pressing needs."

"Queens welcomes the Administration to Borough Hall and the opportunity to engage on the needs and challenges unique to the World's Borough," said Queens Borough President Melinda Katz. "With 2.3 million residents, there will be much ground to cover for the families of Queens."

First Lady Chirlane McCray will also hold a series of events.

The announcement was also made via Mayor de Blasio and Borough President Katz's Twitter accounts, @NYCMayor and @MelindaKatz. More details about the Queens edition of "City Hall in Your Borough" will be made public in the near future, the Mayor’s office said.

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Jagdeo warns of ‘constitutional crisis’ if national elections are delayed

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he international diplomatic community is growing increasingly wary over the machinations of President David Granger with regard to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and should he be moving to have a repeat of the 1990 experience – when then President Desmond Hoyte had his term in office extended by two years – he will have to face a non-compliant opposition – a situation that could plunge Guyana into a constitutional crisis.

This is according to Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, who on Tuesday raised the issue of a possible ulterior motive on the part of the President and sought to qualify his position by pointing to the seemingly ever-expanding criteria.

Jagdeo was at the time speaking to members of the media at his Church Street, Georgetown office, where he provided an update on the meetings he held with civil society on Monday last over the submission of a third list of nominees for the post of Chairman of GECOM. Jagdeo also used the opportunity to respond to sentiments expressed

by President Granger during his most recent pre-packaged television programme, “The Public Interest” which he dismissed as disingenuous.

He told members of the media, “We will never in that sort of atmosphere (outlined by President Granger) be able to have a person selected.”

Ulterior motive

Jagdeo was reporting on sections of civil society’s lamenting over the requirement to have all six names on any list submitted to be perfect before any of the names are even considered.

“Listen to how unreasonable this is…if you have five persons on the list perfect according to his criteria and one person is not, then he will not even start considering the names,” Jagdeo said.

According to the Opposition Leader, the strong-arm position adopted by the President flies not only in the face of the Constitution, but it also flies in the face of history and precedence which has been accepted in the past by both the People’s National Congress (PNC) and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

Jagdeo suggested he was now of the opinion, as was the case with many that he would have consulted with, that President Granger may very well have an ulterior motive. “I believe that he has an ulterior motive.”

The Opposition Leader suggested that by delaying the appointment of a GECOM Chairperson, the President may want to believe that this situation could lead to the delay of the next General and Regional Elections.

He recalled a similar experience in 1990, when the PNC’s term in office was extended by two years.

Wishful thinking

According to Jagdeo, this situation obtained since it was agreed to by the PPP/C, along with the Carter Centre to have the elections delayed in order to sanitise the voters list to remove any doubt over the rigging that had obtained in the years leading up to that election by the then PNC Government.

“If he thinks that situation will repeat itself, he is engaged in wishful thinking … if he will delay appointment just to get additional years (in office) he is wrong…. he is not going to find a compliant PPP agreeing to an extending of his term.”

Jagdeo warned that such a situation would lead to a constitutional crisis since the life of Parliament would have to be dissolved on a predetermined date according to the Guyana Constitution.

He said should there be no election called at this time, the country would be plunged into a constitutional crisis, since there could be no Budget and further, any agreement inked at that time would be illegal and not recognised on his part.

“If he thinks, as some people feel, that this is a plot to delay the elections, then there are consequences,” the Opposition Leader warned.

On the matter of his meetings with members of the international diplomatic community, the Opposition Leader said the signals emanating from the Granger Government were sending worrying signals.

International concerns

“I had discussions with people from the diplomatic community, because of the behaviour of the President on this matter where he is departing so radically and departing from precedence over the years…He (Granger) is raising a lot of concerns internationally about the elections,” Jagdeo said.

He told members of the media, “we have started doing work internationally to ensure that the election is free and fair …. people see this in the international community as a strategy”, on the part of the Granger Government. continued on page 20

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In wake of massive protests GuySuCo announces meeting with ‘sugar dependent’ communities

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he Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo) has announced in a statement issued on Monday that it will be commencing a community outreach programme for residents in ‘sugar dependent’ communities in the villages where estates are located. Meetings will be held at the community centres, the Corporation has said.

The first community meeting will be held at the Wales Community Centre on June 29, and the second will be held at the Uitvlugt Community Centre on July 5, at 4:00 pm. The focus for discussion of these two meetings will be the ‘Uitvlugt Estate Improvement Programme (UEIP)’ and other matters related to GuySuCo.

On July 6, another community meeting will be held at the Enmore Community Centre for residents in Enmore and neighbouring communities. The focus for this meeting and those to be held at Blairmont, Rose Hall, Albion and Skeldon community centres will be ‘The Role of Communities in Improving Attendance on Estates for the Second Crop 2017’, as well as

other GuySuCo-related matters.

“The aim of this outreach programme is to mobilise cane harvesters, planters, cane transport operators (and) their families and communities around the importance of improving attendance at all estates, in order to sustain the industry,” GuySuCo said in the statement.

The objectives of the meetings are to create a greater awareness of the need for employees to turn out to ensure that the canes are harvested within the crop; mobilise the residents around estates to encourage employees to improve attendance; mobilise community leaders and other stakeholders, such as customers, suppliers, government, private and civ-

GAWU General Secretary, Seepaul Narine

il society sectors, around the importance of improving attendance on all estates; create a greater awareness of the importance of the sugar industry and GuySuCo to the development of Guyana; (to examine) the linkages between increased atten-

dance and greater commitment to sustaining the industry; and to build greater partnerships and engage more strategically with communities and other partners around estates.

General Secretary of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), Seepaul Narine, only recently condemned GuySuCo for what he feels is an attempt to “denigrate” the union’s “unrelenting and principled stance” in defending the rights of thousands of sugar workers.

The sugar workers, their families and other stakeholders have been protesting Government’s move to discontinue operations at several sugar estates, as confirmed in this year’s State Paper on the industry’s future.

GuySuCo’s Senior Communications Officer Audreyanna Thomas last week penned a letter to the editor which noted that the Corporation is seeking those sugar workers who were “misled”. However, GAWU has indicated that Thomas’s letter was just another “public relations stunt” that discredits the union’s defending the many cross-sections of workers who stand to be affected by what the union termed “ill-conceived plans” that GuySuCo has advocated for the sugar industry.

“From the Corporation’s letter, it seems that the Unionorganised protests at several estates are getting under the not-too-thick skin of the Corporation and its handlers. Our most recent activity at Albion attracted an appreciable turnout and demonstrates the disagreement, shared not only by workers and their families, (but by) the wider communities,” the union official stated in a lengthy release issued on Thursday last.

Some 375 Wales workers have been out of employment since GuySuCo closed that estate at the end of 2016. They contend that they cannot be compelled to travel 22 miles from Wales, West Bank Demerara to Uitvlugt, on the West Coast of Demerara.

On that ground they have demanded severance payment, but the Corporation contends that all workers who opted for severance had already been paid. This matter is slated to come up in the High Court.

“GuySuCo says it will demand very soon a ‘higher level’ of service from GAWU. But

such a call is best suited to GuySuCo. Our Union, nevertheless, is supportive of all plans which will secure the sugar industry, but at the same time cannot lend a supporting voice to plans which will wreck lives and imperil entire communities, as we have seen playing out at Wales,” Narine has pointedly expressed.

The GAWU General Secretary further highlighted the uncertainties of the diversification plans the sugar corporation has, plans which Agriculture Minister Noel Holder had announced last year.

Narine went on to explain that, up until now, no worker has been given any land to capitalise on the supposed diversification plans. He noted that GuySuCo, like a “wolf in sheep’s clothing”, goes on to speak to provision of transportation and medical services to the workers and their families and pensioners.

“Is the company expecting the agriculture workers to join public transportation from their homes at 05:00 am and travel to the cultivation some 5 to 10 miles in rugged off-road terrain?” he questioned.

Narine also reiterated that, in the main, GAWU strikes are related to price disputes. He noted that sugar workers have encountered two years of no pay increases; were “shortchanged” on API in 2015, and were given no API in 2016; and that there was arbitrary cutting down of workers’ benefits.

“We take serious and utmost umbrage with GuySuCo’s view that the GAWU is engaged in sabotage. This is completely unfounded, and (is) a figment of someone’s imagination. Moreover, the Corporation also seems to question the wisdom of the workers’ protest actions. But wouldn’t any rational person whose livelihood is threatened take a similar approach?

Ms Thomas and her colleagues ensconced in the comforts of GuySuCo hierarchy would sing a different tune had the shoe been on the other foot,” the GAWU General Secretary stressed.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan, in his presentation of the 2017 Budget, had indicated that the status quo at the sugar industry could neither be sustained nor maintained. He had explained that, based on the CoI, it was concluded that any money injected into the sugar industry in its current state was money wasted.

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Sisters, boyfriend to stand trial for brutal murder of father

Murdered: Roger Manikam

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he two teenage girls, who allegedly planned and executed the murder of their father, 64-year-old Roger Manikam, with reported assistance from a boyfriend and another man, were all committed to stand trial at the next sitting of the High Court.

The four – a 13-yearold along with her adopted sister and biological daughter of the dead man, 18-year-old Nalanie Manikam; her boyfriend, 24-year-old Veeran Lall, called “Adam Dias”; and his friend, Devon Browne, all appeared at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Courts.

The charge against them alleged that on April 2, 2016, at Coldingen Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara (ECD), they conspired among themselves to murder Manikam.

The four reportedly carried out the heinous act on the evening of April 2 and reportedly confessed to the murder when interrogated by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) ranks.

Manikam’s body was discovered wrapped in construction plastic and dumped on the Railway Embankment at Coldingen, ECD the morning after he was brutally murdered.

His daughters allegedly lured him into the kitchen of their Non Pariel home where one of them reportedly chopped him with an axe.

Lall reportedly helped the two girls wrap the body of their father in construction plastic and his friend, Brown, assisted in transporting the body from Manikam’s residence.

They then dumped the body on the Railway Embankment at Coldingen.

The two girls told Police that their father, who they claim was a drunkard, sexually molested them which prompted them to carry out the act.

However, family members of Manikam defended him and claimed that the teenagers killed him for money he obtained from the sale of a lumber yard he previously owned.

When the man’s body was found and investigations commenced into the matter, the two daughters had initially claimed that their father might have been killed after being robbed.

Then they suggested that he might have been returning home from one of his drinking sessions and that his girlfriend should be questioned about it.

However, the involvement of the girls in the man’s murder came to light after Police ranks who were investigating the incident found a piece of rope at the Non Pariel home of the man, which appeared to have been a part of the rope that had been used to tie the dead man up. During questionitime after, the two girls reportedly confessed to planning and executing the murder.

Jagdeo warns...

from page 14

Meanwhile, on his consultation with members of civil society, he reported that the persons who participated in the meetings expressed frustration over the protracted delays and shifting goal-posts on the part of the Executive.

“Civil society share same frustration on this matter…many felt the President’s position is unreasonable.”

ACDA absent

According to Jagdeo, the members of civil society expressed the view, “we will never have agreement if he continues to hold to the views that he has publicly expressed and many of them think it’s a waste of time to continue what seems to be a charade of sending names to him when he would capriciously, flippantly dismiss names as not being

fit and proper.”

Jagdeo reported too that the protracted delay has now led to a waning in enthusiasm of civil society to participate in these activities, since “their views are not going to be taken seriously by Government”.

Jagdeo told media operatives, “they and I recognise that it is going to be increasingly hard to find people who would want to put up their names only to put down nationally, publicly by the President.” He did report that among the groups noticeably absent from the consultations was the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA), which had complained about being sidelined at the first engagement, but was since invited.

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G$550M cocaine bust: Ace biker, race car driver each granted G$5M bail

Nazim Gafoor

A

ce biker Stephen Vieira and race car driver Nazim Gafoor were on Friday last granted bail by acting Chief Justice Roxane George when their lawyers made the petition before her in the High Court.

The men were granted G$5 million bail each and were released from the Georgetown Prison on Monday.

Vieira and Gafoor were granted bail owing to special reasons presented to the acting Chief Justice by their Attorneys-at-Law, Latchmie Rahamat and Stanley Moore.

Those special reasons posited that no evidence was ever present-

Stephen Vieira

ed to the Court which proves that the defendants were in possession of any drugs.

Documents previously presented to the Court also indicate that Gafoor suffers from epilepsy.

It was also put forward to the acting Chief Justice that the trial would take a long time, since the prosecution has secured 31 statements and the two men are not flight risks.

However, Nazim Gafoor’s father, Tazim Gafoor, remains in the Georgetown Prison along with Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) agent Sherwayne DeAbreu.

The G$550 million drug discovery was made when Customs Anti-

Narcotics Unit (CANU) ranks swooped down on a Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo house belonging to wanted man Naraine Lall and unearthed the substance stashed in a shipment of lumber.

The four men were all charged at the Leonora Magistrate’s Courts last month when they appeared before Magistrate Roshelle Liverpool.

The men pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that between March 1, 2017 and May 12, 2017, they aided Hakeem Mohamed in trafficking 84.9 kilograms of cocaine at Narine Lall’s Sawmill at Lookout, Parika.

Bandits terrorise, rob teachers in New Amsterdam A section of the ransacked apartment

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wo bandits terrorised and robbed two teachers at their Lot 39 Stanleytown, New Amsterdam home early Tuesday morning.

One of the teachers was tied up as the men forced their way into the home through a window and ransacking it, seeking valuables.

Speaking with Guyana Times International, high school teacher Malissa Ramdhan said at about 01:30h, she heard strange voices in the lower flat of the two storied apartment which she occupies.

“I can’t remember what the guy said but they tied me up,” the shaken woman recalled. She said one of the men used a towel to tie her hands and also to wrap it tightly around her throat to prevent her from screaming.

According to Ramdhan, both men were unmasked and demanded cash and jewellery. “They took whatever I had; money, jewellery laptop…

They searched everywhere; book, files, draws and whatever looked like gold they took it and whatever money I had they took it.”

According to Ramdhan, the men spent about an hour and a half searching while insisting that the teacher had a lot of valuables hidden in the apartment after which they left but not before spraying the apartment with a strange chemical leaving the container behind.

Ramdhan said she managed to loose herself but hid in the washroom and tried to protect her eyes and nose from a

burning sensation. She recalled that about 10 minutes later, the men returned and broke open the washroom door and instructed her to accompany them to the upper flat.

She said she was being held at knifepoint and told to call out her cousin.

Khrishna Sookoo, another teacher, who lives in the upper flat, told this publication that he heard voices in the lower flat but the television was on so he was of the opinion that his cousin had friends over.

“I hear my cousin calling at the door and I looked outside and her with two guys and then one said ‘don’t panic,’ so instinctively I know that it is bandits.”

Sookoo pushed one of the men down the stair and the other in retaliation used a cutlass to chop him twice in the head before he escaped.

The two cousins then raised an alarm. Sookoo was rushed to the hospital. The Police was notified and an investigation has been launched. In the yard, Police found an empty can of a lachrymatory agent.

Decision to downsize sugar industry was “necessary” – Granger

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n providing more reasons why the Government has moved to begin downsizing the sugar industry in Guyana, President David Granger maintains that it is a necessary decision and his Administration is trying its utmost to “limit the damage” in executing this process.

The Head of State was adamant that widespread consultation had taken place at all levels of society to include the input of all stakeholders before the white paper on sugar was presented to the National Assembly

by Agriculture Minister Noel Holder.

“As far as the sugar industry is concerned, we had months of consultation and a Commission of Inquiry (CoI). We actually published a draft paper, the unions were invited and the Opposition as well. So, consultations are taking place,” he said during a recent “Public Interest” programme.

While acknowledging that workers have been actively involved in massive protest action across the country, Granger said that sugar was contracting and it was highly impossible to sell sugar at

GAWU President, Komal Chand

very high prices on the world market. It, therefore, means that downsizing has to take place.

“So, we have no choice. What we are trying to do is to limit the damage by establishing three mega estates – one in East Berbice, West Berbice and one in West Demerara,” he said.

According to him, Government will also try to save as many jobs as possible while simultaneously trying to maintain sugar production at a high level/quality.

Granger also recognised the need for engagement with the European Union and Britain about market availability.

“So, yes, there have been consultations. We are spending billions of dollars on the Guyana Sugar Corporation

(GuySuCo). Let the union make presentations on how it could be saved without bleeding the bag and depriving the other sectors of the economy from billions every year,” he posited.

However, Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) President Komal Chand has said repeatedly that when Government met with them to discuss its plans to downsize the industry, they had presented a paper which provided several options to help save the industry.

While the recommendations by GAWU have not been made public, Chand had told this newspaper that the Government did not take any of them into account and they were disappointed that Government moved quickly to announce its plans without looking at the social and economic impact this might have.

Chand has also claimed that the Government is not prepared to have the white paper debated in the National Assembly.

He also highlighted that the Speaker of the continued on page 24

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Granger rubbishes claims that country is being ‘militarised’

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resident David Granger has denied claims that the recent flurry of former army officers being appointed to top posts in the state apparatus since his Government took office has a sinister motive behind it.

Speaking on this week’s edition of ‘The Public Interest’ programme, which was recorded on Thursday, the Head of State said the country is not being militarised, but is still very much civil.

“We’re still civil. Have you seen me in uniform over the last five years?

No. So the country is not being militarised, and the mere appointment of persons who had military experience is not a sign of militarisation.”

Granger then drew a correlation with the claims of militarisation and his cabinet being dominated by attorneys-at-law, saying that the argument cannot be made that he is “legalising the cabinet.”

The Coalition Government has come in for much criticism, especially from the Opposition, for appointing military personnel, whether serving or retired, to several state po-

President David Granger

sitions.

Only recently, former army Chief Brigadier George Lewis was appointed as deputy CEO of the GPHC, and is now acting CEO after the recent axing of former CEO Allan Johnson.

Meanwhile, Lt. Colonel (ret’d) Lelon Saul is heading the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA).

Referring to these two cases, President Granger noted that he had no say in these appointments. In fact, he went on to outline that it was the PPP/C regime that started the practice of recruiting former military officers in the Public Sector.

“The practice of recruiting former military officers wasn’t initiated by the APNU Administration. Major General Joe Singh and

Major General (Michael) Atherly were there before I got in. Colonel Ramsarup was at CDC.” Major General Atherly, who was appointed to head the National Anti-Narcotics Agency (NANA), is also the acting head of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), after the recent firing of long-time head, James Singh.

Moreover, Granger noted that his administration continued the practice since many of these army officers were qualified.

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has always expressed reservations about the appointment of former military personnel to key positions in the state.

Since the coalition Government came to office in May 2015, several retired Guyana Defence Force (GDF) officers have been appointed to key advisory positions within the Government.

These include Rear Admiral (Ret’d) Gary Best and Brigadier (Ret’d) Edward Collins, both former Chiefs of Staff of the GDF. Collins has been appointed Presidential Advisor on National Security, while Best

Lieutenant Colonel (ret’d) Lelon Saul has been appointed Presidential Advisor on the Environment.

Additionally, a number of soldiers have been seconded to work in the Defence Secretariat at the Ministry of the Presidency.

Last year, the Ministry of the Presidency had announced that Colonel Nazrul Hussain would head the Department of National Events, after a series of arrangements for Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary had been bungled. Army officers have also been appointed to a number of State Boards and other civilian positions. And Granger’s Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, is a retired army colonel. The PPP’s concerns were amplified after two army officers were appointed to head Commissions of Inquiry.

Retired Brigadier Bruce Lovell had been appointed to conduct a CoI into allegations of corruptions at CANU, and retired Colonel Windee Algernon had been appointed to conduct a CoI into a deadly fire at the Children’s Drop-in Centre.

“Radika” beaten to death after observing ‘threesome’

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n unwelcome viewer of a reported ménage à trois on a beach at Third Avenue Bartica, Essequibo, is now dead after he reportedly refused to refrain from witnessing the sexual act. The dead man has been identified only as “Radika,” and is said to be in his 40s.

Reports reaching this publication indicate that between 04:00h and 05:00h on Monday, the now dead man, accompanied by two males aged 18 and 21 and a 25-year-old female, went to the beach for some enjoyment. A police source disclosed that the young adults were all engaged in “a sexual threesome act” while the deceased was “just viewing.”

While details surrounding the incident remain roughly sketchy, Guyana Times International understands that before the act could reach its climax, a misunderstanding erupted between the young adults and the man, and the three reportedly began to “cuff and kick” “Radika” about his body.

Quick action by police in Bartica resulted in the three young adults being arrested on Monday morning just after they had beaten

the man, who was rushed to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries at about 10:00h on Monday.

This newspaper was told that the trio did not resist arrest. A post mortem examination is expected to be performed on Radica’s body soon. Police investigations continue.

And 40-year-old Orland LaCruz of a Pomeroon River community was shot dead earlier this month after he allegedly refused to perform fellatio (oral sex) on one of his two drinking buddies.

The murdered miner was reportedly imbibing with the two suspects inside a camp located in the Jack and Vieira Backdam of the North West District when an argument erupted among the men over LaCruz’s alleged refusal to perform the sexual act on one of the suspects.

That individual was at the time armed with a shotgun, which he loaded with a cartridge that was given to him by the second suspect.

He then allegedly shot La Cruz to the right side of his neck, resulting in his death.

The alleged perpetrators of this shooting death remain at large.

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Energy expert underlines need for technical, vocational skills in Guyana’s oil industry

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Students of GTI learning technical and vocational skills

he oil-and-gas sector can develop high standard technical and vocational skills which can be transferred to other sectors, according to energy expert Anthony Paul, a Trinidad national who serves on Guyana’s Local Content Committee.

According to a GINA report, Paul pointed out that there exists a myth over the types of jobs available in the oil-andgas sector. While engineers and geologists are necessary skills in the industry, for Guyana, the job opportunities lie

in technical and vocational skills.

“You ask where the jobs are? Technical and vocational skills are very important,” Paul said.

Guyana is preparing for oil production sometime in 2020, after significant oil find in 2015.

Paul pointed out that Trinidad and Tobago “did well” at developing those skills with apprenticeship programmes in its oil-and-gas industry.

“There are many more; as welders, fabricators, mechanics, people doing diesel machine… You have the kernel of that

in the schools; they may be distressed at the moment, but do you rescue that culture and use it to build those areas?”

He noted that this is a decision for the Government to make.

More importantly, these skills are transferrable.

In Trinidad’s case, Paul noted, the twin-island state’s oil-and-gas sector employ only about four percent of the workforce, but more than 20 per cent of T&T’s workforce is trained in some technical or vocational skill.

“How do you think

they got that skill?

Because the oil industry needed the skills and invested in the schools.

If you train 100 technicians and the industry hires 10, 90 are available for elsewhere,” Paul illustrated.

Additionally, these skills, when transferred, can also raise the standards of the sectors in which they are used.

Paul, however, cautioned that developing technical and vocational skills must not be done at the neglect of highend skills. “The other high-end skills are of value too, and you want to focus on those as well; but we tend to focus on the operation (of) technical skills,” he said.

“If we fail to develop the high-end skills, we end up using the same foreigners that we had to bring into the country to do the job,” Paul explained.

The Government has to be strategic in how it develops skills for the industry, Paul cautioned.

Paul used Ghana as an example of how this did

Anthony Paul, T&T energy consultant at the Natural Resources Ministry

not work out. “A lot of families spend money on children doing studies (for which they cannot find employment) now.”

Over the last two years, Paul worked as an advisor to the Ghanaian Government, developing and putting regulatory systems in place for that country’s Ministry of Petroleum.

“Guyana has to be careful about what training you spend your money on,” he said. The Government is cognisant of this, and has been making provision for developing both technical and high-end skills.

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNRE), through the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission

(GGMC), has committed to spending G$100 million over the next three years to boost UG’s training capacity for the oil-and-gas industry.

Additionally, the MNRE has with the Mexican Petroleum Institute a partnership arrangement that includes scholarships particularly in areas of technical and vocational skills.

There are also plans for a Petroleum Scientific Institute to be established locally by 2020.

Anthony Paul is currently a consultant to the Ministry of Natural Resources on the development of a Local Content Policy for Guyana’s oil-and-gas sector.

Peer educators being trained to tackle mental health issues Janeil Osborne, who has been a peer educator for over five years, said that the seal of confidentiality is important. She also stressed the need to inform and be helpful to those in distress.

By Lakhram Bhagirat

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s a part of taking mental health services to the community level, the Public Health Ministry’s Mental Health Unit conducted a two-day training workshop with 32 youths, age 10 – 14, from the Region One community of Baramita.

The training workshop, a Pan-American Health Organization – World Health Organisation (PAHO/ WHO) initiative, concluded on June 21 and saw the youths being trained as peer educators to help tackle the social ills affecting the community.

Psychologist, Jermain Pollard along with social workers Alicia Solomon, Janeil Osborne and Macie Barclay were the facilitators of the workshop.

Solomon explained Baramita was chosen because of it’s at risk status. “For a small community they were known for suicide and other contributing factors. We know that alcoholism is one of the major problems and knowing that they are predominantly Amerindians and they are from the Carib tribewhat we know are war like people, so when they use these alcohol they become very violent and they can even kill so that was one of the reasons

Tackling the issues

The facilitators from left: Macie Barclay, Janeil Osborne, Jermain Pollard and Alicia Solomon

Baramita was chosen,” she explained.

She further stated that the mining community has only one Primary School with a Secondary Division but noted that it is not mandatory that the children attend and as such, they often choose not to.

However, this publication understands that the Head Teacher of the school has contacted the Education Ministry for them to look at the construction of a secondary school in the community.

The information that was shared, during the workshop, not only surrounded mental health but also how to resolve conflicts and how to build and keep relationships since most of the youths in the area found it hard to be social with each other.

Solomon also stated that the team is expected to visit the communi-

ty at least two times before the end of 2017 and hopes to see progress made. She added that they would also train the children on the wide range of issues while assessing their knowledge retention skills.

Peer System

Young people are more inclined to share their experiences with their peers and quite often they unload their sufferings as well. In turn, they are offered advice and in most cases the knowledge imparted, by their peers, may be incorrect.

Worldwide 10-20 percent of children and adolescents experience mental disorders with half of all mental illnesses beginning by the age of 14.

If untreated, these conditions severely influence children’s development, their educational attainments and their poten-

tial to live fulfilling and productive lives.

Children with mental disorders face major challenges with stigma, isolation and discrimination, as well as lack of access to health care and education facilities, in violation of their fundamental human rights.

There have been several cases of children cutting their wrists and posting pictures of it on social media and even in those instances, they are not being afforded the help they need.

Therefore, to tackle this the Mental Health Unit, as a part of the National Mental Health Action Plan 2015-2020, is re-introducing the peer system where they will train children from all regions to offer support to their peers and to report instances of mental trauma to the unit so that they can provide care and prevent possi-

ble life threatening situations.

Seal of confidentiality

While some children are open and would confide in their peers there are some who tend to isolate themselves and quite often have trust issues, according to Solomon. However, the Unit is big on confidentiality when training the peer educators.

“We would have asked for persons that we know that if somebody shares something with them then they can say that look yes this information is to stay with me but if you are going to hurt somebody or it’s going to be harmful to you I need to share it. I cannot keep it to myself so that is why we want to integrate the teachers, also parents, also community leaders, and authorities in the community,” she explained.

Psychologist, Jermain Pollard, said that upon his visit to Baramita and an investigation along with interactions with the youths he observed that the community needs the training.

He noted that because mining is the dominant economic activity in the area, children are quite often left unsupervised and as such, they engage in all sorts of behaviors.

Pollard said that the situation there requires urgent attention and he sees the training workshop as one that would make a difference. He explained that the children are now informed and educated on the opportunities that presents itself beyond the community and hopes they use the knowledge to make informed choices as well as influence the lives of their peers.

The Unit would be making its way into schools at the beginning of the new term in September to offer services to the students as well as train teachers to be able to identify children suffering from psychological trauma.

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WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Jagdeo says Govt’s ‘green development’ strategy lacks specificity

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ith nationwide consultations on the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS) scheduled to have started from April, eyebrows are being raised over the shortened time frame and the general lack of specificity of the framework document.

The framework document states that the elements of the Strategy will be examined and consulted upon between April and December of 2017. Two months into this period, consultations are yet to begin.

Within the framework, seven “central themes” are provided.

They include promises to diversify the economy, “creating decent jobs for all”, transitioning to renewable energy and “human development and

well-being”. But questions are being raised about exactly how many of these strategies will be achieved.

According to Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, the vagueness of the document at such an advanced stage of the consultative process is cause for concern. He noted that the document is devoid of a practical strategy for achieving many of its goals.

“It’s big on promises, but it does not have a practical outline (on how) to achieve those outcomes. And, therefore, it’s useless from that perspective. You can pull together a document based on best practices around the world, but it has to be relevant to Guyana.”

“It has to be achiev-

able,” the former President stressed. “And the document needs to set out how we are going to get to those goals. And this one falls short on all counts.”

Consultations

The former President noted that when the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government had developed and started consultations on its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), it was from a standpoint of clearly outlined project proposals.

In addition, information on how these proposals would be implemented had been provided.

“When we developed the Low Carbon Development Strategy, we had about 300 meetings, we sent out text messages to over 500,000

cell phones for people to read the strategy,” Jagdeo said. “It was out of those consultations that we came up with a list of projects to implement that would see Guyana move forward, both in terms of having a greener outcome and more prosperity.”

“That’s why we said our LCDS was not an environmental strategy, it was a development strategy. It set out to achieve the same prosperity for Guyanese, but using a greener pathway. We did some work on ethanol. We set some money aside for the centre for bio-diversity studies…,” he pointed out.

According to Jagdeo, there were plans to set money aside for adaptation measures against climate change; such as money to do research

into the types of crops that would be drought and flood resistant to ensure that farmers would be less vulnerable.

“Some resources were set aside to transform the Amerindian village economy, for land titling. Some were set aside for a grant programme for Guyanese. If they had green projects, they could have applied for and gotten a grant to do some of those projects. So we had the projects already there.”

It is understood that the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is providing the Government of Guyana with technical support to develop the Green State Development Strategy.

At the inaugural Green Business Forum held at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown on June 9, Director of the Department of Environment, Ndibi Schwiers, noted that the Strategy sought to fully maximise the “potential and promise” of Guyana becoming a green economy.

Schwiers had said that the green growth pathway “will positively transform our economy” by helping to maximise Guyana’s potential and develop adequate infrastructure to utilise energy resources.

“It is also an advocate for green business-

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo

es…with consideration for sustainability and conservation,” Schwiers added.

Adriana Zacarias, Regional Coordinator, Resource Efficiency of UN Environment, said the next step for the GSDS is another round of consultations.

Zacarias said this was the third phase.

“There will be a series of consultations in the country, not only in Georgetown but around the country, in getting the input from the business sector,” Zacarias had said.

The framework of the GSDS and financing mechanisms’ document was completed in March with financial and technical support from UN Environment.

Initial consultations with regard to the development of the framework document began last December between the Government and other key stakeholders.

Decision to ...

from page 21

Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder

National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland denied a Parliamentary Committee from holding consultations in various administrative regions.

And most recently, the GAWU official stated that it was the moral responsibility of Government to hold a referendum to determine whether the sugar industry should be downsized or not.

On the other hand, Government has said that its plan for the industry includes creating a small sugar sector with reduced losses and cash deficits. According to the Administration, this, coupled with diversification, is a much-needed

ingredient to keep the industry afloat and profitable.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had highlighted the dangers that lay ahead for the 10,000 workers who stood to lose their jobs and the hardships this would put on their families.

He believes that the closure of the industry has the potential to affect about 50,000 people, and in his view, it was a “political, discriminatory decision on the part of the Government”.

Jagdeo reiterated that the sugar industry could be sustained and become viable if more attention was placed on fixing the current problems.

The Agro-Industrial Workers’ Union (AIWU) of the Russian Federation; the Amalgamated Trade Union of Swaziland (ATUSWA), and the Hindustan Unilever Ltd (PPF) Workers’ Union Doom Dooma in India have all come out and pledged their support in the fight against the downsizing of the sugar industry.

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Narpatty Persaud

s we age, muscles tend to stiffen, joints lose their range of motion and we become more susceptible to chronic problems such as osteoporosis, arthritis and heart disease.

Yoga can help slow down the effects of the ageing process by maintaining muscle softness and flexibility, keeping the mind alert and awake, encouraging relaxation and strengthening muscles and joints. This is proven true by 53-year-old Narpatty Persaud.

In an interview with Sunday Times Magazine, Narpatty - a teacher and role model - said she attends the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) yoga classes and has benefitted tremendously from practising yoga.

She recalled being very active in her “younger days”, so when she was introduced to HSS yoga classes, she willingly signed up. Approximately one year practising yoga, Narpatty mentioned she “absolutely loves it”.

“Yoga makes me feel better. Practising the postures, breathing exercises and meditation makes you healthier in body, mind and spirit.

Yoga lets you tune in, chill out, shape up -- all at the same time. Yoga is good for what ails you.

I have done extensive research which shows that yoga helps manage or control anxiety, arthritis, asthma, back pain, blood pressure, carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic fatigue, depression, diabetes, epilepsy, headaches, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, stress and other conditions and diseases. Quite honestly, I am living proof of the work of yoga,” Narpatty noted.

She added that practising yoga has contributed significantly to her well-being.

However, when Narpatty initially joined the HSS yoga classes, she admitted

that she was “very shy”.

But she did not stop as she saw the benefits of practising yoga.

Narpatty pointed out that yoga has “boosted” her self-esteem and self-confidence. Yoga has also helped her to be a more effective teacher.

She stated that her concentration and creativity in her classroom have improved.

“I find myself being more organised now.

Most importantly, yoga has helped me to be a better individual in life.

That is why as long as I can walk, I will always practise yoga. When I can’t make it to classes, I would still do my basic breathing exercises and postures. Every spare moment I get, I dedicate to yoga. I know yoga won’t stop me from ageing, but it definitely helps me to embrace the process and be fit,” she declared.

Personally experiencing the benefits of yoga, Narpatty encourages both young and old to take up yoga. Describing it as a "fantastic workout for your body", she said yoga can be practised at your “own speed and level of comfort”.

“No matter which yoga exercises you choose, the practices will always be part of a great workout routine. There are some fantastic series of movements out there that are perfect for every kind of day and for every kind of person, meaning there’s no reason not to start doing some yoga as soon as you can. It gets you in touch with your body.

“Yoga stretches and exercises are designed around the idea of moving your body to increase its strength and durability. Therefore, doing yoga on a regular basis will really get you to be much more in tune with your body and know when something is really working and when it isn’t,” Narpatty outlined.

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WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017 | guyanatimeSinternational.com Morning on the Kuyuwini near its confluence with the Essequibo (Photo from silurus.acnatsci.org)

Canoe moored on the Kuyuwini (Photo from marinetomyrmecologist.blogspot.com)

L

ocated in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) is the scenic Kuyuwini River, a tributary of the Essequibo River.

Along this flowing beauty lies the small indigenous village, Parabara. The village’s landing is situated on a high bank of the river.

The Kuyuwini flows through lowland rainforest (Photo from marinetomyrmecologist.blogspot.com)

Manoeuvring along a section of the river (Photo from mykenlara-guyana.blogspot.com)

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Vena Mookram is Miss World/Guyana 2017 M

iss Region Four (Demerara/ Mahaica), Vena Mookram outshone her nine other rivals to cop the coveted Miss World/ Guyana 2017 title when the pageant was held on Sunday evening before a large audience in the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott Hotel, Kingston.

Setting the catwalk on fire were ten beauties Miss Region One, Delisha Wright; Miss Region Two, Sharda Pramdeo; Miss Region Three, Hemwantie Seodat; Miss Region Four, Vena Mookram; Miss Region Five, Joelly Valentine; Miss Region Six, Thamesha Watson; Miss Region Seven, Ariell Basdeo; Miss Region Eight, Crystal Wills; Miss Region Nine,

Manisha Wong and Miss Region 10, Nitifah Thompson.

The event commenced prompt at 20:00h and featured Guyana’s most popular Television sensation, Joel Ghansham as co-host with last year’s Queen, Nuriyyih Gerard.

As expected Ghansham made a dramatic jaw dropping entrance onto the stage as he hid behind a curtain held up by two boys from which he appeared to be undressing and momentarily flinging pieces of clothing over the curtain much to the delight of the audience, before finally revealing himself to a thunderous applause and laughter in a black dress with glittering silver.

Miss World Guyana 2017, Vena Mookram, first Princess Manisha Wong and second Princess Ariel Ghanie

He also appeared throughout the show in two other outfits.

It was indeed a night of elegance as attendees were seen decked out in the latest style and fashion. The event which was well attended saw the girls’ appearing in three short segments: introduction, casualwear and evening wear.

Entertainment was provided in the form of dances and musical interludes by a saxophonist and a guitarist.

The delegates were shortlisted to five who were then asked the same final question: ‘Why should you be the next Miss World Guyana? ’ Mookram was the last to be asked and she answered with confidence.

This led to the fi-

nal three spots resulting in the Queen Miss World Guyana 2017 Vena Mookram of Region Four, first princesses Manisha Wong-of Region Nine, and second princess Ariell GhanieMiss Region Seven.

It was an eye watering moment for many when Miss Region One, Delisha Wright serenaded the queen with her talent piece, a rendition after which the newly queen crowned each of the other delegates with a smaller version of her crown.

Mookram will be representing Guyana in China in November for the international pageant where it is expected that more than 100 countries will participate.

she is around, I don’t have to worry because she’ll keep me on track.

And she has not only done this for me… many girls call her mom.” The relationship is such that Walcott’s mom, who has always acted as her chaperone for her overseas pageants, is her plus one to many events.

For Walcott, success is accomplishing whatever goals you set your-

self and she is currently working on a degree in travel tourism and hospitality and pushing Storm Talent Agency to greater heights.

Contact: Lot 3 Aubrey Barker and David Rose Street, Georgetown, Guyana; 689-0610; Facebook @ stormtalentagency; Instagram @stormtalentagency

Wendy Walcott of Storm Talent Agency: Memorable-Powerful-Unstoppable

W

ith a sweeping, all-encompassing glance, Wendy Walcott, the mind behind Storm Talent Agency, strides forward, hand outstretched for a firm handshake. Tall and svelte, the former beauty queen and model makes a striking first impression that only grows upon further acquaintance, as her warmth, strong will, supreme confidence and genuineness become evident.

At the modelling and talent agency that Walcott set up aged only 21 – fresh off of coordinating all the models for Digicel’s 2007 launch, personality and personal development are the bedrock upon which models are moulded. Drawing on all of Walcott’s experience as a model and beauty queen, Storm provides pageantry grooming services and models for advertising shoots, promotions and fashion shows/displays with a difference. With more than 54 models and talented individuals, the diversity of the models in terms of age, gender, and size is one of Storm Talent Agency’s advantages in the marketplace. It also reflects Walcott’s belief that all persons are equal.

The native Essequibian entered her first pageant – the Miss Anna Regina Secondary School contest, against the wishes of her army father – her innate desire bolstered by the example of a famous cousin, the first Miss Universe Guyana (1999) Morvinia Sobers.

“My dad saw me as a politician/lawyer and I saw myself as a beauty ambassador and all the

other things that come with fashion, … but my dad when I won was like “That’s my daughter!”

That vindication from her father meant so much to Walcott, and fuelled her ambitions even more. After several pageants in five years with three crowns to her name and numerous appearances on catwalks around the region, Walcott made the leap into the rarefied sphere of ownership in the fashion and beauty world.

“It’s not as you imagine,” she says. “I thought I would get my degree before I started…at the time, I only had my diploma in communications and was working at the Ministry of Health”, but she has no regrets.

“The most important thing is to like what you do,” the multi-talented Walcott, who is also a marketing manager and events planner, advised. “To have a passion for it. But there are certain things you have to go through to develop yourself.” Her number one challenge starting out was the lack of respect for the girls and the idea of modelling as a business, and she has

worked hard to overcome that challenge.

Walcott, who despises the stereotype that models are dumb, purposely seeks out individuals who are studying and want to make careers for themselves outside modelling and puts them through a three-month personal development course before she even considers them for her agency, which she runs with the help of a committee. The successful ones graduate into the pink level – Memorable – and even then they are not guaranteed placement because Walcott carefully matches her clients’ needs and the models’ qualities. Models as they grow move from the purple (Powerful, ie professional) level to black (Unstoppable), a designation reserved for the top models.

Walcott, who says she no longer publicises the agency as she once did because she prefers to be hands-on and ensure that her models are properly trained and each client and model are given that individual attention to help them achieve the best results, is very much an advocate for empowering and educating individuals to achieve betterment.

She fiercely protects her models from the exploitation present in the industry although she acknowledges that things have gotten better. In July 2015, she set up the Survivor Foundation after suffering a motor accident that had doctors fearing she would never walk again. The Foundation, which seeks to create awareness of, and provide for, the needs of people who are

differently able as well as the less fortunate, flowed from Walcott being bed-ridden for almost five months.

With a huge smile on her face, the mother of a precocious six-yearold who inspires her every day, praised her own mother, Debra Ann Sobers, as her biggest influence. “I am a strong woman, because she is a strong woman… When

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The Chenapou experience raking up the leaves, preparing cassiri and making breakfast — a community affair. They would sip on calabashes full of cassiri or porridge while conversing in their native Patamona language. The youngsters would sit around and observe the elders communicate while having their input once in a while.

Canoeing along the Potaro

By Lakhram Bhagirat

A

fter landing at the Kaieteur Airstrip in Region Eight and taking the approximate ten-minute trek through the Kaieteur National Park to get a glimpse of the highest single-drop waterfall in the world, one would feel complete, wouldn’t you?

What if I told you that a trip to Kaieteur Falls is not complete without visiting a remote village up the Potaro River?

What if I say that seeing 741 feet of sheer magnificence cannot compare to waking up to the sweet sounds of welcoming the Holy Spirit flowing through the village while inhaling the crisp fresh air?

Well, come and join me as we go on an adventure and live the Chenapou experience.

Chenapou Village, an Amerindian settlement located some 29 miles up the Potaro River, is accessible by an approximate threehour boat ride, depending on how fast your boat moves. The village is divided into four zones, and according to Toshao Edward Mc Garrell, it is the best place to live, or escape from the everyday hassles of city life.

You see, in this remote village, there are no cellphone signals, television stations, radio

P

access, internet access, potable water or electricity. So this is the ideal place for a ‘millennial’ to detox and embrace the life that some of our parents would have lived.

The future of Chenapou

The children of Chenapou Village lead normal lives. Books are their friends, and wading through frog pond in a canoe or just taking a plunge in the river are just some of their many pastimes. The name Chenapou is a Patamona word that translates into “frog pond,” and the village would have gotten its name from the variety of frogs that inhibit the pond. One of the most popular frogs is what we refer to as the ‘mountain chicken’, and in this village it is called Chenau.

Chenapou is a model village; everyone looks out for everyone, and there is absolutely no crime here! Hence the village has zero Police presence. Toshao Mc Garrell boasted about that, but revealed that there would be little tiffs among some villagers, none of which ever escalates into a fight. He says the community is closely knitted, and that is one reason why he enjoys living there.

Walking about the village would allow you the experience of seeing the elders getting up at the crack of dawn and

Local…

…govt popularity test rezzie just made a quite interest suggestion: to wit, Local Government elections in 2018 is gonna be a test of his government’s popularity. There was a time when the PNC were serious about Local Government – but that statement confirms those days are looong gone. Their seriousness was signalled back then by their insistence that political parties at the centre shouldn’t contest these elections, since that would simply transfer the imperatives that drive national politics down to the local level.

So, rather than using Local Government to give autonomy to local people, by having them launch new groupings to contest the elections to deal with their local issues on their merit, we now have the election as a straw poll on the government’s popularity!

But we know, to our cost, that political popularity in Guyana has almost nothing to do with effectiveness, and everything to do with ethnicity. Imagine, when asked why folks at the local level would give the APNU/AFC combine

Education

Because of its remote location, the delivery of education in the village is hindered by the lack of updated information, this is according to Head Teacher of Chenapou Primary School.

There was a time when the prospect of educating Chenapou’s children was bleak, but the determination of Stanley Mc Garrell changed that.

Stanley is now the oldest living resident of the village, and he recalls, quite happily, how he helped to assist in the delivery of education.

“I have been living here for over 30 years, and tried to do whatever I could about educating the people of the village.

And now I am seeing the fruits of it… At that time, the church used to pay the teacher, and most teachers worked for the church. Those days, for months we would not get teachers, and I filled that gap and I tried and kept the school going,” the Bartica native fondly recalled.

“I would tell any youngster that education is the base of good living and existence. Without a proper education you are nowhere, you are behind.

I always tell the people to send their children to school, because without education you are in the background,” the 85-year-old advised.

The youths are build-

The future of Chenapau

ing on that legacy by performing very well at their CSEC examinations, and going on to become productive citizens of the country. However, the road to success is not paved for the children of Chenapou; they would have to walk for two days to get to the Paramakatoi Secondary School every term, and it takes a toll on both the children and their parents.

Parents complain that the life of Mahdia and Paramakatoi would shape their children sometimes in the direction that is not in accordance with their morals and values. However, they are quite satisfied that their children are being able to gain a proper education and be able to develop themselves.

Economic struggles Access to goods, coastlanders take for granted may be a luxury in this remote village, since airfare and other transportation costs have to be factored in when determining the final price of a particular good. That having being established, the issue of accessibility must also be factored in.

Because of its location, employment opportunities in Chenapou Village are limited to only two sectors — mining and farming. The womenfolk often take up

their votes, the best he could offer was they were “proud of having their own towns” and the “green state”!! Really?

What exactly has been done to improve, say, Anna Regina — which went to the PPP the last time — to encourage them to change their votes?

But Prezzie probably has in mind places like Georgetown and Bartica, and is expecting an ethnic repeat. But what’s the point? Will he be proud that, for example, Georgetown once again will return Patricia Chase Green and her Gang of Four at the helm of City Hall? What about Local Government freeing Georgetown from corrupt officials? Ooops! That’s only the PPP! What about Georgetowners being captains of their fate and masters of their destiny and all that? But Prezzie will insist that Chase Green — PNC Executive — heads the PNC slate in G/town.

But is that a test of “popularity,” or a test of ethnic loyalties?? We’re going to have a repeat of Bartica in 2016, when Raphael Trotman — putatively from the AFC, as he is again – revealed “the prodigal son has returned home”.

Prezzie was more subtle than Amna Ally, who openly called for Barticians not to “split the vote”. He advised, “If we do not stay united, somebody is going to ride a Trojan Horse into this town. A Trojan Horse; they want you to think it is a gift, but the gift is in unity.” But it was the same race card, no?

If this Government’s serious about Local Government, there would’ve been a Local Government Commission in place by now.

Not the foot-dragging by Bulkan, which symbolises the

farming as a means of providing a ‘back-up’ to the menfolk’s earnings.

Most of the men work on mining dredges, and would usually ply their trade in the Blackwater – Korobrung area, since the earnings from mining are much more feasible for maintaining a family.

“There is no market for farming in this area, and we don’t get tourists here, so mining is the only way we can live,” one resident said.

About a month ago, following heavy rainfall, the village was inundated. Water rose approximately 20 feet in some areas, washed away houses, and flooded farms. “Because of the water, the cassava (was flooded) out, and now they are starting to rotten. And you know how long cassava does take to grow,” one of the women folk lamented.

The community is yet to begin rehabilitation after the flood, since the rain is continuously falling and the prospect of flooding remains. After experiencing devastating floods, then came the issue of the militarization of the Kaieteur National Park.

President David Granger ordered a military operation to combat alleged illegal mining in the KNP. Twenty-one

residents from the village were rounded up and charged. However, the authorities failed to say whether those arrested were caught illegally mining, since they all claim they were working on legal mining claims. Those charges have since been dropped.

Many note on social media that the residents are the victims of corruption within the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), to which the authorities are not paying attention. Heavy military presence in the KNP and intimidation by soldiers brandishing AK-47s brought all activities in Chenapou to a standstill.

The Chenapou Spirit Despite the hardships, the people of Chenapou are resilient and would welcome anyone warmly and treat you as though you are family. That is the spirit of Chenapou — where you do not go hungry or uncared for.

Just for the crisp fresh air, or experiencing the frog pond, or even the boat ride up the Potaro, Chenapou is the ultimate culmination of a great visit to Kaieteur Falls.

On a lighter note, you will meet Donald Trump if you visit Chenapou.

(Photos by Dexter Ceres)

crippling of Local Government and autonomy.

It’s a shad, shad situation. …contradiction Prezzie, in defending his government’s electoral popularity, also said: “I want people to accept the notion that the coalition, as a module of inclusionary democracy, is good for Guyana.” Imagine that! Just after the WPA sat across from him to complain they weren’t being “consulted” on matters of Governance!! But, as with the Local Government comment, this statement is revealing about how he sees “inclusionary” government.

And it reveals that the PPP knew what they were talking about when they said they didn’t trust the early talk from the PNC about the idea of “inclusionary government”.

What kind of “inclusion” is it when you appoint a man from a party as a Minister but don’t even discuss the matter with the party? As your Eyewitness said earlier, this isn’t “inclusion,” but “buy out”!!

Where’s the “inclusion,” when even the explicitly negotiated Cummingsburg Accord’s been breached so many times it’s not even referred to nowadays.

Even by the fella who got Larwah! …floods Ignoring history, the PPP were accused that it was their neglect of Buxton that led to flooding there. So, what’s the story now under this PNC-led govt?

Fact is, while the entire coastland’s a depression between the “backdam” and the “sea wall”, sadly, Buxton’s in a trench.

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T

he daily practice of Surya Namaskar contributes to a healthy, efficient and energetic day.

Surya Namaskar, also known as ‘Sun Salutation’ (“salute to the sun”), is a common sequence of 'asana' (yoga postures). It is a combination of 12 physical postures.

This sequence of yoga postures originated in India, where its large population has been showing respect to the sun by doing Surya Namaskar, #1 Namaskarasana (Prayer Pose) Stand erect with feet together. Join the palms together in front of the chest.

Concentrate on standing straight, steady and in a prayerful attitude.

This posture helps to induce a state of introversion, relaxation and calmness. Exhale fully.

and at the same time benefitting from its effects.

Surya Namaskar calms the mind and helps to improve concentration. It is a set of 12 postures, preferably to be done at the time of sunrise. Its regular practice improves circulation of the blood throughout the body, maintains health, and helps one remain disease-free.

From head to toe, every part of the body is greatly benefitted

by Surya Namaskar, which is why it is highly recommended

#2 Hasta uttanasana (Raised Arms pose) Inhaling stretch both arms above the head, palms facing upward.

Arch the back and stretch the whole body. It expands the various lobes in the lungs and puts more oxygen which increases the oxygen level in the body.

#4 Ashwa Sanchalanasana (Equestrian pose) On your next inhalation, extend the left leg back and drop the knee to the ground. The right knee is bent and kept between the hands and the right foot placed flat on the ground. Lift the spine and open the chest.

Concentrate at the eyebrow centre. The right leg and left leg are interchanged in the next Surya Namaskar set. It opens groin and psoas muscles improving flexibility of the hips, strengthens knees, ankles, and waist. It is therapeutic for indigestion, constipation, and sciatica.

#7 Bhujangasana (Cobra pose) - On the inhalation, lower the hips while pushing the chest forward and upward with the hands, until the spine is fully arched and the head is facing up. The knees and lower abdomen remain above the floor. This pose gives dynamic expansion to the organs of the chest and abdomen, relieving many ailments such as asthma, indigestion, kidney and liver problems. It is very helpful in relieving tension in the back muscles and spinal nerves.

#10 H a s t a P a d a s a n a (Same as asana #3) - Breathe out as you come to this posture

by all yoga experts.

When done at a fast pace, Surya Namaskar is an excellent cardiovascular workout and an ideal way to lose weight.

How to perform Surya Namaskar?

Every morning during sunrise or within one hour of sunrise is an ideal time to perform Surya Namaskar. On an empty stomach, drink 120ml of water before you do Surya Namaskar. One has to perform

12 Surya Namaskar with 12 physical postures.

In an interview with Sunday Times Magazine, 20-yearold Akshaya Persaud talks about how practising Surya Namaskar has significantly contributed to him being a well-rounded individual, especially as a cricketer.

“I was fortunate to be with the Guyana Amazon Warriors team for three years as an under-19 cricketer. I am very passionate about crick-

#3 Hasta Padasana (Hand to Foot pose) - Exhaling bend the body forward and down, keeping the spine straight.

Avoid collapsing the chest or “over-rounding” the upper back. Keep the legs straight and perpendicular to the ground. This posture massages the abdominal organs, especially the liver, kidneys, pancreas, adrenals, uterus and ovaries. The power of digestion increases and female disorders such as prolapse and menstrual irregularities are relieved. A healthy flow of blood is sent to the spinal nerves as they are stretched and toned. The hamstring muscles at the back of the thigh and calf muscles are stretched and toned. Inversion increases blood flow to the brain.

#5 Chaturanga Dandasana (Stick pose) - On the exhalation bring the right leg back to join with the left leg and keep body in one plane like a straight stick. It builds upper and core body strength, lengthens the spine and strengthens the low back muscles.

#8 Parvatasana (Mountain pose) - Raise the buttocks and lower the head between the arms, so that the body forms a triangle with the floor while still keeping the arms and feet in the same place. Try to place the heels flat on the ground.

Focus awareness at the neck area. This posture strengthens the nerves and muscles in the arms and legs, stretches the calf muscles and Achilles’ tendons and makes the spine straight and taut. It relieves varicose veins and tones spinal nerves.

#11 Hasta uttanasana (Same as asana no. 2) – Breathe in as you come in this posture.

et and always want to be on top of my game. One of the things that help me accomplish this is yoga, especially Surya Namaskar. Yoga helps me to focus. Also, I was struggling with a back injury and by practising Surya Namaskar, my back is much better now. It has made my body flexible and helps me to concentrate better,” Akshaya explained.

Akshaya demonstrated how the 12 Surya Namaskar postures are done:

#6 Sashtanga Namaskara (Salute With Eight Parts Or Points) - Exhaling gently drop both knees to the ground and slowly slide the body down at an angle as you bring the chest and chin to the ground.

All eight limbs - toes, knees, chest, hands and chin - touch the floor. The buttocks are kept up. Hold the breath. This posture develops the chest and strengthens arms. It sends additional blood to this area helping to rejuvenate the nerves.

#9 Ashwa Sanchalanasana (Same as asana no. 4, but with the other leg forward) - Breathe in as you come in this posture.

#12 Namaskarasana (Same as asana #1) - Retain your breath for a few seconds.

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An HSS perspective

Yoga - Indian civilisation’s gift to the world

By Ravi Dev

I

t is not by chance that the proposal for June 21 to be declared by the United Nations as the International Day of Yoga was made by Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. Modi faithfully engages in 20 minutes of yoga every morning and credits his ability to maintain his gruelling schedule throughout his life, to this practice.

June 2 (and occasionally June 20) is the “Summer Solstice” or “midsummer” in the northern hemisphere when the sun reaches its highest point as seen from the North Pole.

The use of yoga towards controlling the body as a preliminary step towards controlling and focusing the mind inwards had evolved in India as far back as 2700 BC in the Indus-Saraswati civilisation, it is not surprising that Modi dubbed it “India’s gift to the world”.

Yoga was systemised by Patanjali (around 200 BC) into “eight limbs” (Astangas), of which the physical aspects is but the third - dubbed “asa-

E

nas” or “postures” or hatha yoga - after one has committed towards an ethical and disciplined life.

While the west was later to focus on exploring the nature of the universe and “reality” through science and the scientific method, the ancient people of India turned into the interior world of the mind and beyond (“Dhyana”), since it is here that even all the externally generated “knowledge” would have to be processed and given meaning.

There is nothing “religious” about yoga in the sense of how “religion” has been understood in the west: with “holy books”, God, prophets and “beliefs”. Just as science is based on a methodology, yoga is simply one step in another methodology for independently discovering the secrets of the inner landscape.

The Indians who practiced yoga invented the present decimal based numeral system that is now universally used - is that “religious”?

Modi has been a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh since he was a child, and

Global Vision 2000 (Aug 6-8, 1993), Washington Hilton. Far left - Narendra Modi. Far right - Ravi Dev

since this organisation is dedicated towards the revalorisation of the culture of Indian civilisation after it was suppressed and distorted over 800 years of foreign conquest, yoga was always one of its central routine.

When he became Prime Minister of India, Modi launched a Ministry of Yoga even before proposing International Day of Yoga to the UN. In Guyana, yoga is an integral part of the practices of the Hindus for Selfless Service (HSS) since it was officially launched in 1996.

But even though the practices of Indian civilisation were mocked as that of “snake charmers”

"A Tropical Scene" (acrylic paints on stretched canvas).

A commissioned piece for a client's private collection

mblazoned with messages of unity and hope, USbased Guyanese artist Derek Browne aims to bring together people of all creeds and ethnicities via his art.

In an interview with Sunday Times Magazine, Browne pointed out that through his art he would like to “show humanity that unity and order can be attained in this chaotic world that we live in...” adding that, “aesthetic order is the objective” in all his art.

Derek Browne was born in the village of

Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara, but grew up in Georgetown where he attended Smith Church Congregational and Bedford Methodist Primary schools. He also attended Central High School where he had begun his formal education in art, and from there went on to the Burrowes School of Art, which was located in Eccles, East Bank Demerara at that time. Browne later migrated to the U.S. and is currently residing in Queens, New York.

Recalling his initial interests in the arts,

Browne stated, “As far back as I can remember, I had begun showing interest in drawing and playing musical instruments. During the course of going to primary and secondary schools to be educated, all I ever thought about was becoming an artist and musician. So I guess by nature, I was born an artist.”

The artist’s first major painting was titled “Carambola in Season”.

It was a picturesque painting featuring a few bunches of ripe five-finger fruits with leaves hanging from branch-

and “fakirs”, yoga spread inexorably in the west after it was introduced by early exponents such as Swami Vivekananda and Paramhamsa Yogananda in the later 19th century. Unfortunately, some have attempted to disconnect yoga from its Indian roots and as an introduction to meditation, because this would link it to “Hindu religion”, which the west continues to deride.

The world “Hindu” and “Indian” are both derived from “Indus” - the name of the river in ancient Eastern India, now Pakistan. Both words simply refer to people living east of the Indus River.

In the derogation of India’s achievements, “meditation” is now given other names such as “mindfulness” when stilling the mind, or “biofeedback” when used to control parts of the body that were thought to be only reached through the “involuntary nervous system”. But this is as foolish as trying to avoid crediting the invention of modern scientific methodology to Europe because the latter was Christian.

There is nothing wrong with practicing yoga as a purely physical practice - even though it would be like using a Maserati for fetching wood! There are yoga exercises for all the muscle

groups of the body and there are specific routines that can stimulate internal organs of the body, such as the kidney or pancreas that may be not functioning at their optimum. In India, for instance, the programme “Yoga for Diabetes” was successfully unrolled and has shown to aid in lowering blood sugar when combined with diet and lifestyle changes.

The Hindus for Selfless Service (HSS) has proposed to the Government of Guyana that yoga should be introduced in the public schools of our country to help build healthy bodies, along with educated minds.

es. It was an image captured from a tree growing in his backyard.

This artwork was one of two that shared the first prize in painting at the National Exhibition of Visual Art held at the Umana Yana in 1981. This painting is now part of the National Collection at Castellani House, located on Vlissengen Road, Georgetown.

Browne described much of his artworks as “pictorial designs”, as they maybe floral, abstract, posters, or things from nature.

“I also like landscapes. I am not really a figure painter. I have gotten a few commissions for these and have sold some of my art,” he disclosed.

Another notable piece of Browne’s collection is “Market Splendour”. This artwork was the only first prize winner at the National Exhibition of Visual Art in 1982. That painting is also now part of the National

Collection. “‘Market Splendour’ is a digital rendering of the artwork that won first prize in painting in 1982 at the National Exhibition of Visual Arts held in Georgetown, Guyana. It features familiar market scenes in Georgetown. I was able to reconstruct the composition and add colour digitally using the computer program DrawPlus. The original artwork was done in oil paints and was large in size, approaching 6ft in height,” the artist outlined.

His thought-provoking “Oneness Under The Sun” painting features “hands of varying skin complexions protruding out of the ground and making the peace sign”.

Browne explained the hands in the artwork are actually modelled after his own.

“This artwork’s theme is intended to denounce and dismiss the labels that are applied to groups of people according to skin colour,

which are causing divisiveness and strife amongst the human race. One such label is ‘people of colour’, which singles out a certain group of people as only being of colour, when in fact all humans walking on this earth are of colour no matter how light or dark the skin is. As a person who deals with colour almost on a daily basis, I don’t see a person as ‘white’ or ‘black’.

We are all of colour!” the artist declared.

Browne described himself as a “designer” because when executing an artwork, he allows himself to be guided by the principles of design.

Other than art, Browne loves music.

His main instrument is the guitar. Additionally, he is an avid gardener and creates scenic landscapes.

When asked about his inspiration, Browne said in “the fine arts he is not inspired by humans, but feels divine inspiration”.

WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Changing…

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…the Constitution Constitution basically describes how the powers of the state’s gonna be distributed in the institutions of the country. So, dear reader, whenever folks talk about “changing Constitutions”, they’re talking about changing the power distribution, right? And if this is so, it doesn’t take too many grey cells to figure out there will always be two sides to these calls — those who benefit from the present power distribution and want to keep the status quo, and those who want to change it.

So this talk about changing the Constitution — that’s once again rising — has been going on forever. But your Eyewitness isn’t surprised that the parties to this exercise don’t tell the folks out there it’s a never-ending process. If only for the simple reason that whenever anyone proposes a better way for governing ourselves by redistributing power, there will always be politicians who will bend those rules to further their own interests — even those politicians who made the calls in the first place.

Take the British, who gave us our first Independence Constitution along with a new way of electing the government: through Proportional Representation, rather than “first past the post”. It was supposed to allow a proliferation of parties in our Land of Six Peoples, and so split up the votes to the extent that parties would need to coalesce to get into State House. At the time, however, Burnham said he didn’t care what Constitution he got, he knew how to ensure he kept power.

He placed his bets on human nature, which really never changes.

He did coalesce his PNC with the UF…but immediately started manoeuvres to make the latter impotent. Buying out the UF MPs (and some of the PPP’s to boot!!) was only one of his moves.

But it was based on his certainty that everyone has a price, and it’s just a matter of negotiating with the ones who can be bought for the least price.

Negotiating is always about personal perks. So when we fast forward to the present, and agonise why the constitutional redistribution of power after the changes of 2000 failed, we don’t have to only look at the Constitution and its rules. The fault, dear reader, also lies in the greedy ones in the game.

The initial hope of PR forcing coalitions was based on the expectation that coalitions would force compromises to spread around the power so it doesn’t end up in one spot — which was the problem to begin with, in the first place.

But when you have folks who can be bought with baubles and SUVs, the status quo will remain.

And constitutional change will be demanded again! …the guppies After all the background stuff above, your Eyewitness figures he might as well connect the dots on what’s playing out in the power game right now. And don’t forget it’s ALWAYS about power, OK? The politicians will keep up the sharp patter of those street hustlers with their three card monte, but keep your eyes on the prize!

So we had the guppy parties coalescing with the PNC to form APNU. But they were never bargaining to redistribute power, were they? Each of them simply hoped for a piece of the action.

So when we hear the WPA wasn’t involved in Roopnaraine’s appointment as Education Minister, why is that surprising? It was always about the personal perks. Ditto about those who became “Presidential Advisors”. And even though the AFC “negotiated” the Cummingsburg Accord”, that became a useless piece of paper when Nagamootoo and Ramjattan didn’t pull out when no power was really redistributed.

Was it because they knew many of their erstwhile comrades had been bought out by then? …the bean counters Two years on, Finance Minister Jordan can’t explain why the Government hasn’t been able to find the “billions and billions” APNU/AFC had claimed the PPP “siphoned off”.

What to do? Blame the auditors!! Off with their heads!!

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Under siege I

By Ravi Dev

n Guyana, from the beginning of modern politics in 1947, voting became increasingly influenced by ethnicity. With the Indian segment becoming a majority by the 1960s, it was not a coincidence that elections became ethnic censuses. One of the dilemmas of democracy in Guyana under the Westminster majoritarian/ plurality rules is how do we control this now reflexive formation of ethnic “factions” to preclude real or perceived tyrannies of the majority? It does not matter the majority may be wise or just, the potential permanent exclusion of the minority from executive office vitiates claims of substantive “democracy”.

The minority African section had to deal with the possibility of being forever excluded from the Executive after 1961. This was the “African Ethnic Security Dilemma” in Guyana: if they played by the rules of Democracy, they would be excluded from the Executive. As predicted by us in 1993, because of other structural conditions, they resisted that exclusion by parliamentary (1992-1997) and extra-parliamentary means – including armed rebellion, between 1998 and 2008.

Democracy also presumes that the State will be managed for all the citizens of the country: the managers should be servants of the people. Hegel called them the “universal class”. If the staffing of the institutions of the state are in the control of any one “faction”, this presents another dilemma for democracy. Typically, the majority faction controls the Executive and the organs of state, and in fact this is what produces the “tyranny of the majority”. However, if there are circumstances in which a minority has control of the state institutions, especially if these include the Armed Forces and the Civil Service and the Judiciary, then the will of the majority can also be denied, since the minority would calculate that they have the wherewithal to challenge the majority without state sanctions.

This was – and remains – the situation in Guyana, where the minority African section is vastly overrepresented in the key state institutions mentioned, especially in the Armed Forces, and used this incumbency to challenge the numerical advantage of the Indians between 1992 and 2011. This creates an “Indian Ethnic Security Dilemma”; for since, even though they were the majority under the Westminster system, and could form the Executive after “free-and-fair” elections, that Executive could not guarantee stability, especially for its supporters. Before taking any policy decision, the Executive – under the “Principle of Anticipated Reactions” – always has to take into consideration whether the opposition would initiate violence under cover of their control of State institutions. At the same time, the Indian supporters of the Executive are under an omnipresent fear of being physically attacked whenever the question of national power is contested.

With sustained post1980 migration of Indian Guyanese exceeding that of African Guyanese, the former’s numerical advantage was lost by 2012, when the census showed them dropping to 39.5% of the population. The results of the 2015 elections showed that, with most of the growing “Mixed” population continuing to cleave politically to African Guyanese, the African Security Dilemma has been resolved. It is expected that the minority Amerindian population would also be induced to support the incumbent government with the politics of patronage.

For insurance, the present contretemps over the GECOM Chair have convinced many that a surgical rigging is being arranged as insurance. With oil revenues expected to start flowing by 2020 when the next elections will be held, it would appear that the odds of the party of the Indians – the PPP – (not an Indian party) returning to power in 2020 is very slim.

The Indian Ethnic Security Dilemma, therefore, has now been transformed into a straight-out possible oppression of a minority group by a Government that combines the “authority” of electoral office with the “power” of being supported by the key institutions of the state – the Police, Army

and the Civil Service.

Even though the PPP was in office for 23 years and a Disciplined Services Commission – following the armed uprising against the state – recommended in 2004 that recruitment for the Disciplined Forces be structured to ensure its composition more broadly reflect the composition of the country, this was never implemented.

Yet, even as the present PNC-led coalition government moved to increase the numbers in the Disciplined Forces, the new recruits remain overwhelmingly drawn from the African Guyanese community.

(To be continued)

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Scenic landscape in the vicinity of the Falls (Photo by CraftmaticAdjustableBed on flickr)

Water cascades through rocks into the Essequibo river (Photo from barbelblogger.blogspot

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ing William IV Falls is located along the Upper Essequibo River, near the indigenous village, Apoteri.

German-born explorer Sir Robert Schomburgk, who carried out geographical, ethnological and botanical studies in South America and the West Indies for Great Britain, named the falls King William IV Falls in honour of the-then British monarch and first patron of the Royal Geographical Society.

Describing the King William IV Falls, “The Guiana Travels of Robert Schomburgk, 18351844” stated: “…The water descends in two falls, the upper is larger, and may amount to from 12 to 14 feet in height; the water precipitating it-

self over a ridge of jagged rocks, pursues its way foaming and tossing to the second fall…so the falls from the upper to the lower cataract amount at least to 20 feet...”

A tourist, who recently visited the area (Apoteri village to King William IV Falls), said: “This stretch of water is amazing with no logging, gold mining and no commercial fishing. Not a piece of trash in sight. After traveling in the South American rainforests, this is one of the most pristine areas. Water is teeming with fish: even one of your biggest freshwater fish, the Arapaima, along with giant catfish. Cock-of-the-rock birds, along with jaguar sighting, makes this a special place.”

Casting for fish (Photo from www.kingwilliamadventures)

Dangerous rapids for boats (Photo by CraftmaticAdjustableBed on flickr)

Lower end of the Falls (Photo from barbelblogger.blogspot)

King William IV Falls (Photo from dheapsfishingadventures.blogspot)

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WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

…for providing outstanding customer service

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O U T H O Z O N E PARK, New York - As a business leader and involved citizen in the South Ozone Park area, Allstate exclusive agency owner Omar Nooredeen of Nooredeen Agency has been designated an Allstate Premier Agency for 2017.

The Allstate Premier Agency designation is bestowed upon 26 percent of Allstate’s nearly 10,000 agency owners across

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the country. The Premier Agency designation is awarded to Allstate agency owners who have demonstrated excellence in delivering an accessible, knowledgeable and personal customer experience while achieving outstanding business results.

“Omar is the consummate trusted advisor and this distinguished achievement demonstrates his commitment to helping customers

better understand the risks they may face and protect what matters most in their lives,” said Don Rubbo, New York Regional Sales Leader in a brief comment to this newspaper.

“We are extremely proud to recognise Omar’s achievements and the fact that so many customers trust his agency to help them with their insurance needs," Rubbo added.

The Nooredeen Agency is located at 13508 Rockaway Blvd in South Ozone Park and can be reached at 718-323-3800.

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eal Estate Broker Leyland Roopnaraine has won a settlement in a lawsuit filed 3 years ago against the NYPD and the City of New York.

The former public school teacher and community activist did not disclose the amount of the settlement but stated that it is a substantial amount.

In a brief comment, Roopnaraine said this should be an example for everyone for the simple reason that a policeman cannot just arrest someone and place such person before the court without the necessary investigations.

Mr. Roopnaraine stated that it has become customary for persons to be arrested simply through a phone call!

He stated that while there are very decent police officers in the NYPD, some of them are “bullies and take advantage over immigrants and minorities”.

According to reports, the Guyanese born real estate developer was (falsely) arrested in

April 2014. It is alleged that four men, not wearing uniforms or displaying any police badges, walked into his office and told him to get up.

When he asked who they were he was told ‘shut up, just come with us!’

He was allegedly handcuffed and placed in the back seat of an unmarked car and taken to the 113 Precinct where he spent over 8 hours in detention and interrogations. He was denied water and food and twice placed in interrogation cells where he was questioned and threatened with jail time by police officers. He was then taken by police vehicle to

Central Boking where he spent a further 5 hours in detention. Throughout the night he had to sleep on a cold, bare concrete floor in a cell.

The charges filed against him were subsequently thrown out as the police could not put forward any evidence.

At the time the alleged crime was committed Mr. Roopnaraine was in Florida and offered to go home for the plane ticket. This was denied.

He sued for wrongful arrest and detention, malicious prosecution, violation of civil rights and inhuman treatment while in police custody.

When asked what he will do with the money Mr. Roopnaraine said that he will use it wisely to ensure his daughter finishes college, buy a new car, and travel around the world.

He was represented by the firm of Rubenstein and Rynecki, attorneysat-law. The firm is noted for handling major cases like Sean Bell, Abner Louima, Eric Garner and other police brutality case.

Medicine and Social Justice

Rain, Rain go away

atiricus was a cricket fanatic. He made no bones about it. Even though, as a diehard WI fan, it didn’t exactly do much for his blood pressure, he persisted. He was disappointed about the early end and premature game against India on Friday, and ambled over to the Back Street Bar for the usual post-mortem — which was half the fun of cricket, in any case.

“I figured we were doing quite well when the rains came down,” Satiricus ventured, as he started on his first beer.

“Budday! Dem Indian opena alone mek ovah wan hundred, and abee bin a do good?” asked Bungi with his eyebrows touching his hairline.

“Well, with only ten overs to go, they could only make 199,” pointed out Hari. “You don’t think we coulda chase 300?”

“Yeah, Bungi, wasn’t that good?” demanded Satiricus.

“Da de problem wid a-you dese,” said Bungi, shaking his head. “How abee guh do ‘good’ w’en half abee bes’ playah nah play?”

“That is a different story, Bungi,” said Hari. “The players and the Boars has to work out that problem.”

“But da na wan differen’ story,” insisted Bungi.

“Wha’ mek even waan stand na full wid people?”

“The Trinis knew rain was coming?” suggested Satiricus.

“Nah…de forecyaas seh ‘good weather’,” said Bungi.

“So what was the reason?” asked Hari, a bit exasperatedly.

“De Trinis gat sense fuh baicut de game, fuh send wan message to de Board!” grinned Bungi. “Even in de waan stan’ wha full, mos’ a de people bin fram outside!”

“Yes, I did see all those Indian fans,” conceded Satiricus.

“But t’ing nah all bad,” said Bungi when he looked at the doleful expressions on his pals’ faces.

“Yes?” asked Hari hopefully.

“Well, dis a de secan’ time India get wash out in Trinidad!” said Bungi with a wide grin. “Dem cyaan wash dem mout’ pan Guyana about cricket an’ rain na mo’!!”

Guyanese man wins lawsuit against NYPD

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Anu Dev

“In my opinion, our health care system has failed when a doctor fails to treat an illness that is treatable.” – Kevin Alan Lee

must confess that, during my pre-clinical years, I used to champ at the bit (a bit!) because of the several classes about “Medical Ethics”. “When would we get to the ‘real medicine’?”, I fretted. But in our classes now, during my clinical years, the doctors are still touching on some of those same points. This time around, the classes are having more of a positive impact, since I’ve actually had some time to experience working in the healthcare system.

Today I’d like to share a few thoughts on “the principle of social justice”. Now I know that some of you might be saying (with bitter memories of you or some close relative not being able to secure vitally needed medical care),”Say what?? Doctors and social justice in the same sentence?!”

But there it is. We’re taught that the medical profession must promote justice in the healthcare system — including the fair distribution of healthcare resources. Physicians should work actively to eliminate discrimination in health care, whether based on race, gender, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, religion, or any other social category.

The way I see this is that, as doctors, we’ll be practising in healthcare systems at various levels of development. In Guyana, while my dad tells me that things have improved tremendously since he returned in 1990, the healthcare system is still far below Trinidad’s. Let’s hope our oil revenues will reverse that sad fact. But in the meantime, with whatever resource set we have at our disposal, we must be fair in our treatment to one and all. It does seem to me that our people are conditioned to defer to the “big ones” in society — and I suspect that doctors also do this.

One area we were cautioned about is the physician’s

professional responsibility for appropriate allocation of perpetually limited resources — both the institutions’, especially governmental, and the patients’ finances.

Doctors, then, should practise a scrupulous avoidance of superfluous tests and procedures, shouldn’t we? After all, the provision of unnecessary services not only exposes one’s patients to avoidable harm and expense, but also diminishes the resources available for others.

But from what I already have seen — both during my visits and readings about the U.S. Health system, and even in my native Guyana in a couple of private hospitals — there is a lot of over-prescription of tests. In the States, doctors may be doing this because of an overabundance of caution, from fear of being sued; but what’s the local excuse?? Making big bucks? While it may be a judgement call to assist in a better diagnosis, I do believe that a doctor should be aware of the social circumstances of the patient, and be prudent.

Overall, returning to a previous discussion I had about our more “socialised medicine” than that of the U.S., I am even more firmly committed to our system. And based on what we’ve always been taught at UWI, doctors also have a duty to work towards a medical system that is based on social justice. While I happen to believe in a “free enterprise system”, I believe that medical care falls into “public goods” that must be guaranteed by the state. And I am happy that in Guyana we spend such a large portion of our Budget on health. But we must insist we get the best value for our money.

The private medical care should supplement and augment that provided by the public system.

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Arshad Warsi hospitalised after suffering a bad knee injury

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ctor Arshad Warsi has been hospitalised after suffering a “bad knee injury”, he said on Wednesday. The 49-year-old actor on Wednesday tweeted a photograph showing a wall clock, and wrote, “My view this morning, had a bad knee injury yesterday, in the hospital, trying to fix…I’m doing this.”

The Jolly LLB star later shared a photograph of his knee in a navy blue coloured cast and mentioned that he hurt himself doing the Tango. “‘Dard bhari taang’ (painful leg) from doing Tango to painful Taangon,” a second image was captioned so by the actor, who once had a dance studio. Arshad is known for his comical roles in films like Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. and Jolly LLB. He also featured in Ishqiya and Dedh Ishqiya.

Recently, the actor was in the news

as a part of his bungalow at Versova got demolished by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) for allegedly constructing an additional floor. The bungalow was locked when civic officials visited the premises, and they carried out only symbolic demolition. On the work front, Warsi is busy with his upcoming directorial Golmaal Again which stars Ajay Devgn, Parineeti Chopra, Tabu and others.

The Rohit Shetty directorial will be a Diwali weekend release this year.

Arshad Warsi also lent his voice to Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar’s Revenge. He is said to star opposite Riteish Deshmukh and Javed Jaffrey in Total Dhamaal and Ajay Devgn is reported to join the cast. Well, we hope that Arshad recovers soon and are eagerly waiting for seeing him on screen. (Indian Express)

Dilip Kumar has influenced my life, says Shabana Azmi

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eteran actor Shabana Azmi says thespian Dilip Kumar has unknowingly influenced her life. Shabana on Tuesday replied to Dilip’s Eid Mubarak message on Twitter and wrote: “Eid Mubarak. Yusuf Saab.

Hardly a day goes by when I don’t marvel at how unknowingly you have had an influence on my life.”

The 94-year-old actor, who made his acting debut with “Jwar Bhata” in 1944, was born as Muhammad Yusuf Khan. He later adopted the screen name Dilip Kumar. Dilip Kumar was last seen on the big screen in the film “Qila” in 1998. He was honoured with Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1994

and Padma Vibhushan in 2015.

He has worked in hit films like “Devdas”, “Mughal-e-Azam”, “Ganga Jamuna”, “Kranti” and “Saudagar”.

Veteran actor Dilip Kumar had to post a series of tweets recently to confirm that he is doing well and the reports of his demise are fake again. As per reports, the veteran actor and his wife Saira Banu were in for a rude shock on Thursday night when they were bombarded with phone calls and messages inquiring about Dilip Kumar’s health. After rubbishing the rumours of his death, Dilip Kumar posted a picture of himself in a new shirt and a trouser, which his wife Saira

Banu asked him to try.

M e a n w h i l e , Memorabilia related to cinema legend Dilip Kumar got sold big at an auction in Mumbai recently with watercolours, mixed media, portraits and collage showcard artworks of the Mughal-e-Azam topping the list of favourite items of the collectors.

Dilip Kumar’s rare set of an original watercolour, mixed media and collage showcard artworks of Ram Aur Shyam that saw the actor in a first double role, sold for Rs. 3.36 lakh at Osian’s ‘The Greatest Indian Show On Earth 2 – Vintage Film Memorabilia, Publicity Materials & Arts Auction’ on June 22.

(Indian Express)

he film industry has been buzzing about Bollywood star Sridevi’s elder daughter Jhanvi Kapoor’s impending film debut for quite some time, but away from the limelight it’s her younger kid, Khushi, who has already taken her first big step towards realising her ambition. Khushi has auditioned for Star Plus’ dance reality show, Dance Plus, which is judged by choreographer-director Remo D’Souza.

Spotted mostly accompanying her mother and sister, not much had been written about Khushi and her future plans. So, when the teenager came to audition for the show’s third season, no one recognised her. “She hasn’t been seen as much as Jhanvi so people didn’t know her.

Also, Khushi didn’t reveal her identity. It was only when she reached the top 35 and performed in front of Remo sir that peo-

ple realised she is Sridevi’s daughter,” a source close to the development told indianexpress.com. Apparently, she wanted to clear the auditions through her skills and not by the influence that her mother’s name holds.

Remo is yet to take a call on her performance so, one will have to wait to see if Khushi makes it to the final stage round and finally be seen on the small screen.

Her sister, meanwhile, is reportedly set to make her Bollywood debut opposite Shahid Kapoor’s brother Ishaan Khatter in a Dharma film. The movie, apparently, is the official remake of Hollywood romance The Fault In Our Stars and Shashank Khaitan, of Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania fame, will helm it. Shashank’s last directorial venture was this year’s Badrinath Ki Dulhania, which was also a Dharma project. (Indian Express)

Diljit Dosanjh writes a heartfelt note for his mother, says ‘My mom before my God’

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iljit Dosanjh is missing his mother Sukhwinder Kaur. The actor has shared an emotional note for her and wrote, “When I called home, before hanging up the call I always take blessing from my mother. I say Paeri Pena and she responds “Putt Khush Reh…Believe me, I forget every tension of my life. It feels as if I am yet again recharged with energy. There is so much of love in her voice. For me, my mother is before all, even God.” On the same day, the actor shared a video of a kid and his mother, recalling how he himself used to get bashing if he used to do something naughty. In the video, the kid is singing Baahubali 2 title track while the mother is cooking for him. Though the video ends up on a funny note, Diljit got emotional and just wrote, “I love you mom” over it.

Recently, the actor featured in the newspaper list under the category of ‘Droolworthy Dudes’ under which Diljit

secured his place on the ninth number.

Ever since the release of his recent film, Super Singh, the actor has been constantly resharing and retweeting videos that he has been getting from his fans all over the world.

Not just regular fans, Diljit also has some crazy fan following in Bollywood.

Recently, Raj Kundra, Shilpa Shetty’s husband, posted a video with Vivan Kundra, his son, expressing how he loves Diljit. Raj is prepping up for production of a Punjabi film, and it wouldn’t be a shock if the businessman suggests Diljit as the leading face.

Meanwhile, Diljit has his hands full with Bollywood projects too.

If the sources are to be believed, Diljit has four big Bollywood films in his kitty. Filmmaker Shaad Ali, who’s all set to direct his next film has approached Dosanjh to play the lead role in the film and two of them are in talks for the same. (Indian Express)

Esha Deol’s pregnancy cravings begin

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e have heard about different phases of pregnancy and how a tobe-mother starts having strong cravings. It seems Esha Deol has entered that phase already as we saw her patiently waiting for the cupcake she had ordered. The actor posted a picture of her on Twitter and wrote, “Hummmmm!!!! And my expression says it all waiting for my cup cakes ! Need the sugar rush as I shop !!!”

The actor is in Greece with husband Bharath Takhtani to spend some ‘me’ time.

According to TOI, Esha’s in-laws would also join her soon but Hema Malini and Dharmendra would not be a part of the plan.

The report further reads, “The couple will visit Santorini and Corfu islands, where bookings have also been made for sun-bathing and spa among other things. A source close to the Deols

tells us that Bharat has planned a few surprises for his wife. Esha has been carefully monitoring her diet and exercises, including yoga and meditation, to ensure that she’s physically fit to make the trip with her baby bump.”

Esha’s pregnancy was officially announced by Hema Malini, who was extremely ecstatic to know the news. “Deols and Takhtanis are overjoyed to announce that @Esha_ Deol and Bharat are expecting their first baby. We thank you all for all your good wishes,” wrote Hema on her Twitter handle.

On the work front, Esha Deol was last seen on adventure-reality show, Roadies X2, as a gang leader. (Indian Express)

WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Keith Urban on completing 11 years with Nicole Kidman: She still feels like my girlfriend

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usician Keith Urban, who celebrated his 11th marriage anniversary with actor Nicole Kidman, feels she is still his girlfriend. Urban and Kidman completed 11 years of marital bliss on Sunday. The 49-yearold musician gave a tribute to his wife on his Instagram post with photographs of them cuddling each other, reports dailymail.co.uk.

Urban posted a series of selfies, which show the Oscar-winning

actor having her arms wrapped around him, while the country singer is giving her a peck on her cheek in another image. “Happy Anniversary Babygirl. Eleven years and you still feel like my girlfriend – KU,” Urban captioned the image.

The couple’s fans also showered the couple with well-wishes on the comment section pointing out that the couple looks “cute together”.

“I absolutely love this!

I love the ‘you still feel like my girl friend.’ Such

sweet words! Happy Anniversary to you both!” one user commented. While another said the two are “beautiful people making a different in a big world.

Happy Anniversary.”

Meanwhile, Kidman shared a throwback photo on her Facebook page. “11 years of love that I thank God for every day. I love you Keith Lionel more and more.

Happy anniversary,” the Big Little Lies star captioned the photo of their wedding. Kidman and Urban got married in Sydney, Australia in 2006.

The couple has two daughters together, Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret. Nicole is currently enjoying a career comeback, starring in the hit miniseries drama Big Little Lies created by David E. Kelley. (Indian Express)

‘John Wick’ actor Michael Nyqvist dies at 56

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wedish actor Michael Nyqvist, best known for his leading role in The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo Swedish film series, died in Sweden on Tuesday after a year-long battle with lung cancer, his representative said. He was 56.

Nyqvist “passed away quietly surrounded by family” in Stockholm, his spokeswoman Alissa Goodman said in an emailed statement that called him “one of Sweden’s most respected and accomplished actors. Michael’s joy and passion were infectious to those who knew and loved him.”

“His charm and charisma were undeniable, and his love for the arts was felt by all who had the pleasure of working with him,” the statement said. Nyqvist rose to prominence as the complex investigative journalist Mikael Blomkvist in film adaptations

of Swedish author Stieg Larsson’s gritty Millennium novel series that spawned The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo franchise.

More recently, he played menacing villains in Hollywood action films Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol and John Wick. Nyqvist made his debut as an author in 2010 with an autobiographical memoir Just After Dreaming, which detailed his quest to find his biological parents three decades after he was adopted as a baby.

The actor is survived by his wife and two children. (Indian Express)

Ben Affleck’s ‘The Accountant’ is getting a sequel

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arner Bros is planning a sequel to 2016 hit The Accountant with Ben Affleck in talks to return as Christian Wolff. Original screenwriter Bill Dubuque and director Gavin O’Connor

are also in talks to return for the new film, reported Deadline.

The original starred Affleck as the title character, a math savant with high-functioning autism who works as a forensic accountant and

un-cooks the books for unsavoury criminal organisations under the glare of law enforcement.

The movie raked in USD 155 million worldwide on a USD 44 million budget. The sequel will also probably include Jon

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Vin Diesel, Gal Gadot’s on playdate with their kids

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hen they are not kicking ass on big screen, Vin Diesel and Gal Gadot love being parents and all other things that come with it.

The Fast and Furious stars reunited for a cute picture where the two are seen with their daughters.

Vin Diesel’s 9-year old daughter Hania Riley is seen sleeping in his lap, while Gadot is seen feeding her daughter Maya. Gal gave birth to her second child Maya in March. Vin Diesel shared the picture on his Facebook and wrote, “When we aren’t playing superheroes… All love”.

Gal was several months pregnant while filming a major portion of Wonder Woman. She played Gisele in the fourth, fifth and sixth instalment of Fast and Furious movies. This is not the first time that both Vin and Gal have shared their pictures on their respective Instagram handles. The frequency with which they share each

other’s pictures on Instagram suggests that they both are fond of each other.

Earlier Vin shared an adorable picture of himself along with Gal and congratulated on the success of Wonder Woman. Vin wrote, “There are no words I can Say that can convey how proud I am of you…Your recording breaking weekend is nothing short of incredible”.

Meanwhile, Wonder Woman has become the highest grossing live action film directed by a woman. Wonder Woman was Patty Jenkins’s second film after Monster. It’s also reported that Wonder Woman is the second bestreviewed superhero film after Logan.

Wonder Woman is about an Amazonian warrior who leaves her secluded island to save the world from a looming war. In doing so, Diana realises her destiny and finds some harsh truth about humans. (Indian Express)

Irrfan Khan turns a hipster for his upcoming Hollywood film ‘The Puzzle in New York’

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nternationally acclaimed Indian actor Irrfan Khan was spotted flaunting his hipster look in New York.

The actor was seen sporting a floral shirt paired with round sunglasses and a hat. “Channeling my inner hipster…kaisa laga (How did you like it)? New York influence,” Irrfan captioned the image.

Irrfan is shooting in New York for his next Hollywood project, The Puzzle.

Puzzle will tell the tale of a 40-something woman who is consumed with caring for the men in her family. When she discovers she has a gift for assembling puzzles, her world begins to open up and her entire family is forced to adjust and grow as well. The ac-

tor will be seen essaying the lead alongside actor Kelly Macdonald. Irrfan also shared a photograph on Twitter of himself along with the film’s cameraman Chris Norr, who has been the director of photography for the 2012 British-American horror film Sinister. “With our cameraman Chris Norr at upper West New York shooting movie Puzzle life of an actor. New York. Movie shooting,” he captioned the image.

Puzzle will tell the tale of a 40-something wom-

an who is consumed with caring for the men in her family. When she discovers she has a gift for assembling puzzles, her world begins to open up and her entire family is forced to adjust and grow as well.

The actor was last seen on screen in Hindi Medium, a Bollywood film which talks about how the education system is creating a divide in the society and has also appeared in The Lunch Box. (Indian Express)

Bernthal, who played a key role in the original.

Earlier, Ben Affleck and ex-wife Jennifer Garner were seen together to celebrate Easter.

The ex-couple was photographed outside LA church. They attended it with their three children Violet, 11, Seraphina, eight, and Samuel, five reported E! Online.

“They always planned to divorce despite what people said. If you look at their first statement it says divorce not sepa-

rate. They just did it the way they wanted to and did what was best for their kids. There was no catalyst, it was just time.

Nothing has changed, they are and still will be putting their kids first,” said a source close the couple was quoted in E Online.

Meanwhile, Zack Snyder has decided to step down from Justice League after the death of his daughter, reported Hollywood Reporter.

“In my mind, I thought it

was a cathartic thing to go back to work, to just bury myself and see if that was the way through it. The demands of this job are pretty intense. It is all- consuming. And in the last two months, I’ve come to the realization…

I’ve decided to take a step back from the movie to be with my family, be with my kids, who really need me. They are all having a hard time. I’m having a hard time,” director was quoted in the report. (Indian Express)

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WEEK ENDING JULY 2, 2017 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

2017: Tino Best delighted ‘Top Gun’ Hopkinson CPL to be back with his home team still the best

– Milling cops junior title

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The respective senior and junior winners show off their prizes

ontinuing to display of match winning form, veteran marksman Harold “Top Gun” Hopkinson has once again out shot his rivals to claim the top spot in the Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA) Smallbore Section .22 Precision shoot held on Saturday at the Tactical Services Unit Range of the Guyana Police Force.

Hopkinson’s form which allowed him to do well in the just concluded Grenada Gun and Rifle Association’s Second Annual six Stage, Level 2 IPSC competition, still held as he amassed 232 points along with two V Bulls to win the senior

Harold “Top Gun” Hopkinson

category.

Taking the second place was Chad Melville who ended with 228 points the same as Dr Johan DaSilva; however, Melville shot 4 V Bulls which meant that Dr

DaSilva had to settle for third place.

The senior competitors shot from the 10 and 15m distances while the juniors aimed from the 5, 7 and 10m distances.

The leading junior on the day, the top three competing in their first precision pistol match, was Terry Milling who accumulated 232 points and one V Bull. Second was Michael Tang with 225 points and 5 V Bulls while third place went to Sherwin Solomon who tallied 221 points and 1 V Bull.

This was the third such competition held by the GuyanaNRA Smallbore Section for the year.

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ast bowler Tino Best says playing in the Hero Caribbean Premier League Twenty20 competition for his hometown Tridents Pride of Barbados franchise, has always been his goal.

Best was drafted by the Tridents in March and will appear in his second stint in the league after previously playing for the St. Lucia Stars.

“Playing for Barbados is what I always wanted from the inception of the CPL,” Best said.

“To have the opportunity to play for the Tridents finally; I will go out bowl fast, get wickets and bring fans to the Kensington Oval.”

Captain Kieron Pollard leads the Tridents into the 2017 season with interna-

Tino Best

tional signees Wahab Riaz of Pakistan and Kane Williamson of New Zealand.

Tridents have also retained the services of batsman Dwayne Smith, who was integral in the team's sole championship in 2014.

“We have a good squad with a blend of talent and youth," Best said. "Pollard is a very good leader with his experience at the top level playing around the world in various leagues. Adding guys like Wahab Riaz and Kane Willamson gives us a very good blend of youth and experience, I think we will compete and do well."

A fiery fast bowler capable of delivering at speeds over 95 mph, Best is known for his boundless energy on and off the pitch.

In his mid-thirties

Best maintains an impressive dedication to fitness and bowling quickly. He has focused heavily on fitness in an effort to prolong an almost two-decade long international career.

“My pace has always been a weapon for me. I haven’t really lost any pace, I have maintained my pace for the last 17 years playing professionally by the way that I train and the desire I have for bowling and bowling quickly.”

He is currently using a stint at English club side, Lashings, to prepare for this summer’s campaign and expects to join the Tridents ready and raring to go.

Best said, “I am bowling quick, feeling fit and strong. It is all about a lifestyle, being fit and strong is not a problem.” (CPL)

2 floodlight softball teams to attend New York League

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he Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) is sending the Floodlights and Floodlights Legends — two softball teams — to participate in the New York Softball Cricket League (NYSCL) Independence/Legend Cup Softball tournament. This occasion represents ten consecutive years since the GFSCA has been sending representatives to participate in this NYSCL tournament.

The tournament will be held on June 30th, July 1st & July 2nd at the Canarsie Park in Brooklyn, and the finals will be held on Sunday at the Roy Wilkinson Park in Queens. Most of the local players have already travelled to New York, and the few remaining in Guyana will go soon.

Floodlights are the reigning champions of this year’s inaugural Orlando Premier League, played in March this year in Orlando, Florida. They emerged champions in the Florida Cup played in March 2016 in Fort Lauderdale, and were also champions at the Legends Cup staged in July 2015 in New York, but were bested in July 2016 by local rivals Regal Masters.

They are confident of regaining their softball supremacy this weekend over all their rivals in the New York Legend Cup, where 12 teams from around USA, Canada & Guyana will be taking part. The Independence Cup will also feature 12 teams in the Open category.

Both tournaments would be played simultaneously. Ricky Deonarain is captaining the Floodlights team, and Dharam Persaud is captaining the Floodlights Legends. Hubern Evans is the coach for both teams.

The two teams will be picked from the following persons: Uniss Mohamed Yousuf, Ramo Malone, Ramesh Narine Deonarine, Lloyd Ruplall, Wayne Jones, Kamraj Sumair, Robert Mohan, Mahesh Lutchman, Tulshi Lutchman, Vishawnauth Lutchman, Anil Beharry, Goordial Mattai, Ricky Deonarain, Jagdish Persaud, Dharam Persaud, Lakhram Singh, Gopaul Boj-Raj, Jailall Doedass, Vivakenand Ramsaywack, Nadir Baksh, Mohan Sukhu, Richard Persaud, Surendra Nauth, Armogan Gopaul, Unos Baksh, Teekchand Madho and Ramchand Ragbeer.

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setting high standards Du Plessis in line Nedd ahead of Regional U-17 for Lord's after T birth of child

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Faf du Plessis should be back to lead South Africa at Lord's (Photo: Getty Images)

af du Plessis is expected to return to the UK in time to captain South Africa in the first Test against England at Lord's after going home for the birth of his first child. Du Plessis' wife Imari gave birth on Thursday, a week before the series opener, which should give du Plessis, who has never played a Test series in England before, enough time to travel back with the squad.

Du Plessis confirmed the arrival of his baby in a tweet: "Our biggest blessing yet came in a small package.

So very grateful," he posted.

In du Plessis' absence, Dean Elgar is leading the South Africans in their

warm-up match against England Lions in Worcester. Theunis de Bruyn was included in the XI as a back-up batsman but South Africa also have Aiden Markram in the squad, who was initially said to be cover for du Plessis. With the skipper set to take his spot at No. 4, it is likely the only debutant at Lord's will be opener Heino Kuhn, who replaced Stephen Cook in the squad.

South Africa are still sweating over the fitness of Vernon Philander, who was unable to take part in the tour match as he recovers from an ankle injury. Though they are hopeful Philander will be fully fit in a week's time, Chris Morris and Andile

Phehlukwayo are in the squad as back-up.

The touring party will be back to full strength with coach Russell Domingo, who had to rush home after his mother was involved in an accident, also expected to return later this week. This series is likely Domingo's last in charge with CSA searching for a new coach. Domingo is understood not to have reapplied and interviews for his replacement have already been conducted. CSA has appointed a fiveman panel, which includes Gary Kirsten and Eric Simons, to recommend a suitable candidate by July 21.

(ESPNCricinfo)

alented National Youth all-rounder Ashmead Nedd has given himself some illustrious goals as he prepares for the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional Under-17 50-over tournament, which is slated for July 8-18 in Trinidad and Tobago.

This year’s tournament will be the skiddy left-arm spinner’s third at this level and his initial desire is to make the regional Under-19 side.

“The goals I have set are to come out with most wickets and MVP [Most Valuable Player] award and look to get into the West Indies Under-19 set-up,” he stated.

Nedd led the National Under-17 Select Squad in the recently-concluded Guyana Cricket Board Hand-In-Hand Inter-county Under-19 Tournament, where they placed second in the 50-over contest and third in the three-day.

Regarding the team’s preparation, he contended that being exposed to the inter-county tournament would have allowed management to address any faults of the players.

“Preparation has been coming good; the Select Under-17 was playing in the Under-19 tournament and it was a stepping stone for us, as the coaches and the manager could have seen what we were doing wrong, so they can make the necessary adjustments.”

Last year, Guyana came exceptionally close to winning the title, but were edged by hosts Trinidad and Tobago, who ended on 20.6 points, just 0.3 points ahead of Guyana, thanks to the 0.6 of a bonus point secured.

Commenting on the close loss, Nedd said he felt drop catches and not utilising fast bowlers to gain the extra points was the difference.

“Last year’s tournament we lost due to rain; we had the tournament in hand.

The game against Barbados, we dropped

As talented as he is with ball in hand, Ashmead Nedd knows that consistency will be vital in the upcoming tournament

a catch from one of the fast bowlers and against Windward Islands, we took two in the match and dropped some. We have to use more fast bowlers than last year, since we didn’t bowl them much,” he noted.

Having made his debut in national colours in 2013, the 16-year-old accredited his success so far to training hard and doing the basics. With his inspiration coming from the likes of English batsman Joe Root and Sri Lanka’s left-arm spinner Ranga Herath, the son of the former First-Class off-spinner Garvin Nedd said he would remain focused to achieve his ultimate dream – to play for the senior West Indies team.

In August 2016, he was part of a talented trio of players from the Demerara Cricket Club (the others were opening batsman Sachin Singh and pacer Qumar Torrington) who were selected to represent the West Indies Under-16 team on a tour to England.

In addition, he also played for Tony Hartford U-17 Academy team of Trinidad and Tobago for their tour of New Zealand from January 1-26, 2015. (Akeem Greene)

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Get To Know Your Guyana Amazon Warriors Keon Joseph

Chris Lynn Full name: Christopher Austin Lynn Born April: 10, 1990,Brisbane, Queensland Age: 27 years Playing role: Batsman Batting style: Right-hand bat Bowling style: Slow left-arm orthodox Call name: Lynny

Full name: Keon Joseph Born November: 25, 1991 Berbice Current age: 25 years Batting style: Right-hand bat Bowling style: Right-arm fast-medium Call name: Buffy

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dynamo with the bat in hand, Lynn set the 2016 edition of the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) alight with some belligerent batting, which helped his team reach the final against eventual winners Jamaica Tallawahs.

From 12 matches in 2016, he scored 454 runs at a remarkable average of 45.4. His highest score was 86 made against the St. Lucia Zouks (now St. Lucia Stars) and the Warriors will be counting on the his exploits yet again in their bid for a maiden championship title.

The player who had a stint with the Tallawahs in 2015, is seen as the glue to a formidable top-order that includes New Zealander Martin Guptill and Jamaican Chadwick Walton.

Donning Australian colours has been a regularity for Lynn who has appeared in six internationals (one ODI and five T20Is). However, his resources are in high demand due to the carnage he creates in the Big Bash League “down under.”

While the Australian has been in an ever green of form since last year, injuries has been his kryptonite, with the latest coming while playing for Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League earlier this year, af-

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ter he started the tournament in raging form.

In preparation for the ‘Biggest Party in Sport” the player has been hard at work in effort to perform at his optimum. “After a couple of weeks break from the IPL and ICC Champions Trophy I’m feeling refreshed and can’t wait to get back to Guyana,” Lynn told Guyana Times Sport.

For the fans seeking, to attend, all should be wary of the humongous sixes he can serve-up on any given night as he seeks to once again be the tournament’s leading player with the bat.

Lynn’s message for the fans was: “The fans of Guyana are sensational.

It’s a great feeling knowing we are the best supported team in the CPL and every player appreciates your support.

I hope to see all of you out to as many games as possible and then we can all celebrate afterwards. Here’s to another successful CPL for the GAW!!!.”

or the chunk of two years, the hostile fast bowler has been on the rise with both his pace and performance on the field. While not known for his feats with the white-ball, with just three List-A matches for Guyana, Joseph could be the ex-factor the teams holds with the new ball along with Sohail Tanveer, Rayad Emrit and Muhammad Ahsan Ali Khan.

His presence in the team is not a new one since he was a part of the 2013 squad as a replacement to the injured Ronsford Beaton but had no match time.

Commonly called ‘Buffy’ by teammates and close friends, his usual game plan is simple, bowl extremely fast and get wickets. Admirably, the former West Indies under-19 player has bowled with greater accuracy which has seen him earn stints with the West Indies A-team for a tour to Sri Lanka in 2016.

On that tour he played three fourday matches and collected eight wickets. That form translated into him ending the 2016/2017 Digicel Regional 4-day Competition with 24 wickets from six

matches and a best innings performance of 7 for 53.

Since then he has been on the regional side’s radar, featuring in the tour match against Pakistan.

Given the new pitches at the National Stadium, Providence, have shown to be very lively, the visiting batsmen could be in handful.

Speaking on his return to the team he said: “It is a wonderful feeling to be back in the Warriors team for the second time, I feel so glad and whenever I get a chance I will be aiming to perform at my best for my team and please the fans”.

“Fans should come out and support since we have some exciting players and I will be running hard for team”.

The next edition of the “ Get to know your Guyana Amazon Warriors” will be on Sunday and Guyana Times Sport will be unravelling some of the mystery behind leg-spinner Rashid Khan.

Taylor to move up order in bid to strengthen Windies batting

(CMC) West Indies Women captain Stafanie Taylor will move up the order to number three in an effort to strengthen her side's ailing batting in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup. The right-handed stroke-maker, the Caribbean side's leading batsman, made 45 batting at number four in the opening match against reigning champions Australia when the Windies collapsed to an eight-wicket defeat last Monday.

But Taylor found herself batting with the tail after the innings imploded and her promotion in the order is aimed at giving her more time at the crease.

“We reviewed that situation and the captain has put her hand up and said

she will bat at number three going forward,” head coach Vasbert Drakes said.

“We pretty much took the proactive approach and took care of that where Stafanie, the main batter, batting more balls.”

The 26-year-old is one of the leading batsmen in world cricket, closing in on 3,000 runs with an average of 44, along with five centuries.

Significantly, four of Taylor's five hundreds have come in the opening slot with the other one coming at number three. Over the years, however, the Jamaican has slid down the order to provide stability to the middle of the innings.

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