Guyanatimes 12 march 2018

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Monday, March 12, 2018

Issue No. 3500

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Jagdeo urges Guyanese to fight racism, oppression

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Former footballer found dead P11 in New Amsterdam house

... as thousands attend Page 3 Cheddi Jagan's centenary service at Babu Jaan

President Granger holds bilateral talks with India’s PM

Region 3 REO undermining independence P9 of NDCs Charges P14 recommended for “Otisha” – Police PR

Suddie Police lock-ups P8 escapee still on the run P11 $300M worth of development projects for Region 2

President David Granger on Sunday held high-level bilateral talks with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Founding Conference and Solar Summit, which is taking place in New Delhi, India

Former Tourism Minister blasts Govt for neglecting Govt backs call to boost public sensitisation tourism sector – to engage with Centre for ...says good initiatives shelved, no new policies Oil & gas sector

Page 2

Page 12

...industry lacks energy, vision

Local Business Development

Man dies after throat slit at Buxton Page 2

City Council P7 divided over King’s dethronement …several motions tabled ahead of today’s no-confidence vote

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news

monDAY, march 12, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Oil & gas sector Man dies after throat Govt backs call to boost public sensitisation – to engage with Centre for Local Business Development slit at Buxton

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Leon Delph

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he village of Buxton, East Coast Demerara (ECD) was thrown into shock on Sunday morning when a father of one had his throat slit by a man with whom he reportedly had an old grievance.

Dead is 34-year-old Leon Delph, of Lot 182 Quamina Street, Georgetown, who met his demise around 07:00h on the Buxton Railway Embankment.

According to reports, Delph, who had gone to a Jouvert party in the village, was sitting in a motor vehicle when he was approached by a man who was identified as Junior Allen of Buxton.

The two men had an exchange of words and Allen whipped out a knife from his waist before slashing

Delph’s throat. After receiving the injury, Delph pursued Allen and dealt him several stabs about his body with a broken bottle.

He subsequently collapsed as a result of his injury. He was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Allen managed to escape the scene of the crime.

Police are currently hunting for the suspect and searching hospitals as the man is said to be badly injured.

The altercation reportedly stemmed from an old grievance several years ago when Delph reportedly stabbed Allen while they were both incarcerated.

Investigations are in progress.

overnment has admitted that more can be done to sensitise the public on various areas of the oil and gas sector, especially residents of far-flung rural communities and areas outside Georgetown.

In an interview with Guyana Times, Business Minister Dominic Gaskin expressed support for more sensitisation exercises across the country, noting that they did not even have to take the form of expositions and summits. He revealed that he has made promises to approach the Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD) in this regard.

“Certainly, I do (support the call)… I certainly agree that information on the oil and gas industry needs to be made available to all 10 regions in Guyana. In fact, I was in Port Kaituma over the weekend and we had a discussion at a town-hall meeting with residents and business persons. And they were concerned with getting information on the opportunities in the oil and gas sector.

“I have promised them that I would discuss that with the (CLBD). So, I agree it is important to have this information disseminated as widely as possible. And there are a number of ways this can be done. It doesn’t necessarily

Business Minister Dominic Gaskin

mean we have to host GIPEX [Guyana International Petroleum Business Summit & Exhibition] in every region, but there are other ways of getting the information out.”

He acknowledged that such information would have to be both relevant and beneficial to locals. This means, he noted, local companies having access to experts in the oil and gas industry.

CLBD

When the ExxonMobilfunded CLBD first opened, Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman had said he strongly recommended that workshops be held throughout the 10 Administrative Regions to inform the citizenry of the opportunities on offer.

Areas of opportunity include marine operations,

safety equipment, fabrication, inspection, civil construction, warehouse, and last but not least, catering.

According to CLBD Project Director Patrick Henry, the Centre would conduct courses such as financial management alongside IPED and other partners, among other initiatives.

“The Centre has a supplier registration portal,” Henry had related to the media.

“And we ask that businesses come in (and) register in the portal. From there, we’ll do assessments of businesses. We’ll run training classes to help them in areas like understanding the offshore oil and gas sector, and see what opportunities they have.”

“We’ll help them in areas such as safety, health, and the environment. (We’ll give them) an overview to understand what that means for the oil and gas sector as well as other sectors.

And then we’ll conduct courses through our partners. (Courses) like financial management or supply chain management training, which allows them to access the opportunities upcoming,” he added.

ExxonMobil, its contractors, the broader oil and gas industry, and the Government would be able to utilise the CLBD for sourcing

local vendors and services.

Now that it has opened the CLBD, ExxonMobil will, over a three-year period, work with DAI Global to transition the CLBD into the hands of Guyanese management.

GIPEX

Asked directly about GIPEX, Gaskin noted that the Business Ministry only assisted with the coordination of the Natural Resources Ministry organised event.

But he noted that the event was from all accounts a success.

“From all accounts, I’ve been told it was a very successful summit,” he said.

“Those who attended seemed very satisfied. My understanding is there were a number of meetings between local private companies and foreign companies and there have been a number of joint ventures discussed.

“I don’t know if we have any signed contracts and signed arrangements, but certainly, there have been discussions about joint ventures and I believe there are expectations that from the summit will come a number of joint ventures.”

The GIPEX summit was held at the Marriott Hotel with hundreds of foreign and local delegates last month.

3 Jagdeo urges Guyanese to fight racism, oppression news

MONDAY, march 12, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Monday, March 12 – a night-time retraction at 02:00h and a day-time retraction from 13:30h-15:00h and Tuesday, March 13 – a night-time retraction at 02:30h and a day-time retraction from 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, March 12 – 13:15h-14:45h and Tuesday, March 13 – 14:20h-15:50h.

…as thousands attend Cheddi Jagan’s centenary service at Babu Jaan

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

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

Winds: East North-easterly between 3.57 metres and 7.15 metres.

showed the highest number of people who registered in this cycle, more than ever in several PPP stronghold villages. “So, that’s a good sign, but we need to step up the sign in next cycle. We have to start preparing the logistics to bring every single one out,” he added.

The former Head of State told the gathering that the PPP would continue to fight for several areas of concern, one being the GECOM database. turn to page 7

High Tide: 13:08h reaching a maximum height of 2.12 metres.

Low Tide: 06:37h and 19:17h reaching minimum heights of 1.19 metres and 1.04 metres respectively.

By Samuel Sukhnandan

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SATURDAY, MARCH 10, 2018

LOTTERY NUMBERS J

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18 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

DAILY MILLIONS 15 21 23 25

26

LUCKY 3 3 6 0

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Afternoon Draw DRAW DE LINE

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Evening Draw

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

eople’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo has urged every Guyanese to fight oppression and racism in every form as he addressed thousands of Guyanese at late President, Dr Cheddi Jagan’s centenary service, which was held at Babu Jaan, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

He warned Guyanese to look out for the ‘race card’ being played up during the next elections. However, he said the PPP was a party of national unity and one that was open to people of all colours, races and creeds.

While admitting that the PPP has a large IndoGuyanese base, he said that his party was largely supported by Amerindians too.

The PPP has also been welcoming more people of Afro-Guyanese descent into the party, who have turned to it for support on a number

of matters.

Apart from that, he said the PPP was gaining more support not based on colour but on sound policies.

“We must form a compact with civil society,” he said while urging every Guyanese to fight against every form of oppression and racism being touted by opposing groups and parties.

Jagdeo on Sunday also vowed to work tirelessly to block any attempt by the ruling A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition to rig the next elections constitutionally due in 2020 as he predicted a major sweep for his party at those polls.

In a passionate speech delivered to the thousands of people who gathered from across the country to observe the 100th birth anniversary of the late Guyanese leader, Jagdeo said that the work in this regard has started, and called on all PPP/Civic supporters to be vigilant.

“We are not laying down and taking it for granted that they won’t rig…We will block those,” he said.

He said the fear of election rigging was understandable, especially given the fact that elections were rigged in the past by the People’s National Congress (PNC). The PPP General Secretary, therefore, urged supporters not to allow this fear to paralyse them. “We must fight to prevent it,” he told the gathering.

Stressing the importance of citizens getting registered, Jagdeo said that a recent exercise done by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM)

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monDAY, march 12, 2018

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

Holistic approach to ethnic divisions

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s we reported in observance of the International Decade for People of African Descent, Guyana hosted the 2018 IDPAD Summit, which concluded yesterday. It brought together more than 60 academics, black activists and other expert speakers from around the world, to focus on addressing the plight of descendants of African slaves brought here by the Europeans through the implementation of possible solutions to issues affecting them as a people. The four-day conference was held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel under the theme “Where we are, Where we ought to be, How we get there”.

It is hoped that the discussions were situated within challenges of the plural society created by the arrival of other ethnic groups: Portuguese, Indians and Chinese (and free Africans) -- with the exception of the Amerindians -who were brought by the whites from all parts of the world to replace the Africans after the abolition of slavery in 1834. More than anything else, this is needed because of the debilitating politics that has evolved here.

Separated chronologically to a large extent in their arrival, they were segregated into separate economic and geographical niches, with profound and lasting consequences for their future relationships. While the separation may have prevented widespread clashes, it further reinforced the initial cleavages of race/ethnicity, language, religion and culture, to demarcate social boundaries which were distinct and have proven long lasting.

Guyanese politics, like all politics, is rooted in the structure of the society and the rules of the political game. The nature of the “faction” influences the political culture, political competition, and any political conflict. Unfortunately, the nature of the salient cleavage has remained a contested topic in Guyana, and the “conflict about the conflict” is a threshold issue that must be crossed before a stable democracy is established in Guyana. If the competitors for political power do not share a common framework for conceptualising their struggle, they would simply be talking past each other in any attempt at reconciliation.

Political mobilization is always done along some actual or potential fault-line which has created political factions in the society.

In Guyana, the cultural differences and origins (ethnicity) conjoined with “race” evolved as the most pertinent marker for political mobilisation. In his seminal work, Friedrich Barth argued that the defining feature of an ethnic group are not the particular elements of culture or kinship that differentiate it from other groups, but the mere fact that boundaries are perceived and persist. The membership criteria, and the membership itself, tend to change over time as people come and go, and invent and develop new traditions and ways of life; but the group itself, nevertheless, endures as a way of structuring social life.

The dominant politicians of the modern era, especially Dr. Cheddi Jagan and Mr Forbes Burnham, however, insisted that class was more “fundamental,” and worked to ensure “class consciousness”. In this way, they avoided dealing with the central reality of political action – ethnicity. While most countries are multicultural, and the cultural differences may be the most common axis of differentiation and even political cleavage between the groups, the societies do not all inevitably become as divided as Guyana and a number of other countries have become.

In fact, these have earned themselves a special name in political science: deeply divided societies. The major variables in determining the difference in the intensity of the politics and whether the conflict may become undemocratic in multi-ethnic societies have been the rules of political competition, the relative sizes of the groups, the resources at their disposal, and the strategies of their leaders.

In a world of scarce resources and all-pervasive governments, politicians do not find it difficult to persuade fellow group members that their social, economic and identity interests are better served if their group controls the state; that is, if they unite their political interests. The affirmation of themselves as a people and the economic interest served mutually reinforce each other.

The challenge for Guyana is to make the struggle a winwin one.

Laluni is celebrating the 63rd anniversary of the community’s establishment and its first village day. The community also unveiled a monument in recognition of the village’s founder, Wilfred Henry

Procurement process failing as politicians drag their feet and some are ‘in the pocket’ Dear Editor, Despite the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) in 2016, Guyana’s procurement process is still infested with prejudice, inequality, unfairness, discrimination, nepotism, and racism and, even worse, there is no proper mechanism to deal with appeals and complaints.

Government and Opposition politicians are fully aware of this situation, but for some reason they seem to lack the vision, drive, energy or political will to do whatever is necessary to fix the seriously flawed process and make it fair, transparent, and accountable as the nation’s Constitution requires. Partial solutions have not worked and cannot work.

I recall that it was public pressure arising from deep suspicion about corrupt practices infecting the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board

(NPTAB) that caused President David Granger to establish the PPC about two years ago to replace Cabinet’s role in approving State contracts.

At the PPC swearing-in ceremony, President Granger stressed that the Commission’s role was to ensure that the procurement process was fair, equitable, transparent, competitive, and cost-effective, according to law, and according to such policy guidelines as may be determined by the National Assembly.

But despite this noble intention, it quickly became clear that the PPC was not fulfilling its role and did not have the capacity to do so. This was because of its feeble response to Opposition calls for probes into the contract to a Dutch company for a feasibility study on the proposed new Demerara River bridge, as well as the D’Urban Park Project and the Sussex Street bond.

PPC Chairperson Carol Corbin reportedly promised the Opposition to look into these matters, but added that this would be done “within the confines of (the Commission’s) work programme and available resources”. Quite rightly, this position was rejected because the PPC’s work programme and lack of resources cannot stand in the way of its obligation to investigate such complaints promptly and effectively.

I recall that in July 2017, Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) and former Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall called for the setting up of an Appellate Tribunal as prescribed by the supreme law of the land, the Constitution.

He pointed out that the Constitution stipulates that Parliament may, by law, provide for the establishment of a PPC Tribunal to hear appeals against PPC decisions, and be-

yond that, appeals against the Tribunal’s decisions can be heard by the Guyana Court of Appeal.

I also recall when the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) said it would be assisting Guyana to set up a special mechanism to fast-track projects and Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo stated that the IDB needed to know that the lack of delivery on the contracts was not because procurement officials were not aware of the procedures; it was because of corruption.

When I heard these pronouncements, I was taken aback because this same situation existed during all the 23 years when the Opposition was in Government and they were in positions of power to make a difference. I asked myself: Where were Jagdeo and Nandlall then? Are they only seeing this now they are out of power? turn to page 5

Those judicial appointments Dear Editor, President Granger has once again proven to the world that he is a Burnhamite dictator and he is going to rule this country as an autocratic leader. Success or failure of that style of leadership would depend on whether the established entities allow it and, the final say which rests in the hands of the people. So far, most of the established bodies are giving him stout resistance as well as educated advice, while the people of this country are eagerly awaiting their say come next election. Either way, he will fail because autocrats or dictators – whatever your call them – cannot succeed in a democratic society.

In this regard, I shall delve into the most recent of decisions taken by the President.

In his latest pronouncement, Granger in his usual autocratic style had submitted two

names for appointment to fill the positions in the Judiciary that is the Chancellor of the Judiciary and the Chief Justice. These two positions were sent to the Leader of The Opposition for his immediate approval. He had submitted two names: Justice Yonette CummingsEdwards and Justice Kenneth Benjamin as Chief Justice and Chancellor respectively.

The Leader of the Opposition rejected the names, stating that he needed more time to study the two appointees.

At first glance, one could have that rush-to-judgment approach in saying that the Opposition Leader is playing politics or the usual delay tactics of stifling the smooth process of the justice system, but is this the case? This is certainly not the case, and Article 127 of the Constitution is on the side of the Opposition Leader where it express-

ly states that the President “must concur” or come to an agreement with his Opposition colleague. Mr Granger is not about meaningful consultation and the arrival at mutually acceptable personalities, he is all about himself and what he wants to see done in the Judiciary. It is a situation where he wants total control of the judicial arm of government. The Judiciary is the last bastion of hope for our nation’s democracy and equal justice, and we are not about to give it all up to Granger. We are going to resist it at all costs.

Now, the President has been clever in his submission of the two names, offering the two as a “package”, one being an acceptable individual, Mrs Cummings-Edwards, while the other, Mr Benjamin is the unacceptable one. His is the subtle way of getting his guy selected to the high office.

So, why foist Mr Benjamin on us is the question and the answer goes without saying he is on a drive to have another “yes man” on his list of appointed persons, those whom he can manipulate and control into decisions for his own narrow political purposes.

This is not going to happen in view of the fact that the Bar Association has come out condemning these unilateral decisions of Mr Granger.

Finally, Guyana has had its fill where illegal appointments, unilateral appointments, the trampling of the Constitution and all forms of illegalities from this government are concerned. We are at the crossroads where good governance is concerned. The voices of reason must ring out!

The time is now!

Respectfully submitted, Neil Adams

guyanatimesgy.com

monDAY, march 12, 2018

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

Adherence to building codes Unlawful act at M&CC needs to be reinforced Dear Editor, The most recent and tragic fire that occurred in Kitty, Georgetown -- which resulted in at least three homes being destroyed and two considerably damaged, and scores of persons homeless -- brings to the fore again the dereliction on the part of the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown.

Had the fire-fighters access to unpolluted open waterways, several of those homes would undoubtedly have been saved. Everyone knows that the water storage capacity of the fire tenders is limited, and that they are forced to use the water in trenches, canals and any other nearby source to supplement the water that they bring.

The search by the firefighters to locate an open waterway that was not clogged with

copious aquatic growth, plastic and other garbage items proved futile. All of the surrounding drains were chockfull with weeds, refuse and other unmentionables. So the firefighters were forced to haul their hoses a considerable distance away, where they were able to eventually get a source of water. This is utterly shameful.

It leaves one to wonder where have gone all the hundreds of millions of dollars that were given by the Georgetown City Council to just one or two ‘special’ contractors to maintain the integrity of the city’s drainage system without tender procedures being adhered to. Has the money literally gone down the drain? And why were all the nearby fire hydrants non-functional?

City Hall should have a policy for new homes that are

We need to earn more foreign currency Dear Editor While growing plantain and making plantain chips would replace imported plantain chips and save a little foreign currency it would not replace the foreign currency lost through the “downsizing” of Guyana’s sugar industry.

While the APNU+AFC Government of President David Granger focuses on saving foreign exchange, it is not focused on gaining foreign currency.

This Government has not really thought about Guyana’s oil potential.

It has been nearly three years now since oil was discovered offshore Guyana, and we have only had one major investment forum to attract investors to Guyana.

Clearly, what the Government can do is to market Guyana’s oil potential a bit better, by travelling abroad to sensitise most of the major oil producing countries to our oil potential -which it has not done.

It is good that we have oil, but if we are not going to market and sell the oil, but wait for foreigners to do it for us, then Guyana would remain underdeveloped.

It is not just about oil. It is about using the oil discovery to market our other industries, like rice, sugar, bauxite, gold, fisheries, timber, etc. It is about marketing Guyana’s potential.

Yours faithfully, Sean Ori

being built in the city: they should necessitate the installation of smoke alarms built along with sprinklers. They should also ensure that houses are not built too close together, which causes multiple homes to be lost when one catches afire.

Then again, the Engineers and building inspectors are otherwise engaged, and not ensuring the implementation and adherence to established building codes by persons doing construction and renovations. Every day you hear citizens complaining of their highhanded and disrespectful attitudes.

Sincerely, Anu Bihari

Dear Editor, By now the workers of the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown should realize that they are being dreadfully failed by the two unions that represent them, and they need to become a union themselves.

The failure to remit the National Insurance Scheme contributions -- which is not Council’s money, but rather deductions made from employees -- is just simply criminal, yet the two unions are hardly lifting a straw to have that situation rectified.

It is most unkind of the municipality to deny their workers the opportunity to claim refunds for their health-related expenses.

The Council should be tak-

contracted works are not being evaluated by honest, principled and technically competent persons.

Therefore, I am calling on the members of the Government and Opposition to pull out all the stops and take effective action now to get rid of the corruption and fix in the public procurement process, and also set up an Appellate Tribunal to deal with complaints and appeals.

Think of all the millions of dollars in scarce development funds that are leaking through the holes in this corrupt and backward system. The time for talking is long gone; this is the time for action. The nation must not have to endure this nonsense while politicians drag their feet.

But it seems that Government Ministers in power and their officers feel compelled to help whom they like, establish their own corporations under family names even without equipment and experience, or, they feel indebted and must compensate the ‘boys’.

In the process, profession-

pensions, after serving the Council in most instances for more than thirty years.

Day care centres are being shuttered, so the children of workers can no longer be accommodated there.

Workers at the Abattoir are subjected to the most unhygienic conditions, where the ‘Hot Pit’ that was used in the slaughter of pigs is no longer functional.

It is time for the Council’s workers to stand up and demand better working conditions, as it is clear that the unions will not do it for them.

Mr Minister, when will you straighten out those delinquents at City Hall?

Sincerely, Amber Valentine

Don’t play politics with children Dear Editor, In last Cabinet’s press briefing, Minister Joseph Harmon mention that the three tiers of Government must work together in order for Government to be successful in serving the people.

This is a fallacy, and it is evident that the minister only speaks about respect to local government authorities. Many decisions that are being agreed upon by majority agreement, or even unanimously, are not being respected and implemented by the Government-appointed Regional Executive Officer in the Regional Democratic Councils that are being governed by People’s Progressive Party.

Just a few months ago, a motion was unanimously agreed upon by the Regional Democratic Council for Region Six to provide transportation for school children

of affected sugar workers.

To date, there has been no implementation of this decision. Government may want to give the excuse that this expense was not budgeted for, so it can’t be implemented.

Government should know that when three David G buses were implemented in one year, the expenses for drivers, fuel and maintenance were taken out from the budget when those provisions were not catered for in the budget. This cost for the sustenance of the David G bus programme is costing taxpayers millions to sustain the program. So why can’t sugar workers’ children enjoy the same benefit?

Maybe because they are not the coalition Government’s children, or just because their parents are PPP supporters.

Minister Amna Ally, at a Fyrish, Corentyne handing

Procurement process failing as...

I always support sense over nonsense. Therefore, I support Nandlall’s position on the setting-up of a PPC Appellate Tribunal and I also support Jagdeo’s move to alert the IDB about corruption in the public procurement process. I hope the former President did indeed write to IDB about it as he said.

Like many other genuine investors in Guyana with extensive knowledge of the way contracts should be awarded, I am extremely frustrated by the persistence of corruption, favouritism and racism in the public procurement process.

It is absolutely atrocious that there is no suitable, independent body in place to hear appeals against bad decisions or to report wrongdoings.

The public procurement process is riddled with irregularities, peculiarities, and secrecy. It is also extremely doubtful that it is being handled by persons who have the integrity, independence, and expertise to make fair decisions when awarding contracts. It is also quite evident that many

en to court not just by the administration of the NIS, but the union should take them as well, on behalf of the workers. This is so unlawful.

And the brutality to the workers does not stop there: the workers can no longer access loans from their credit unions, as those deductions have not been handed over by the Council either.

They have no recreational facilities, their working environment in those dilapidated buildings is extremely poor, except for the big shots in their plush offices.

Workers who retire have to wait for months and years to receive their gratuity payments. Former workers have to wait months at a time for their meagre

al, non-corrupted, non-political individuals and those who pay their taxes and NIS are left to divine intervention. I know. . . I felt the terror under the PPP/C Government, where some Ministers and some Permanent Secretaries doled out contracts by manipulating the system for their compadres and compatriots and for their part of the ‘take’. I know of these things.

I suffered then, and suffer today. Sadly, the PPC seem to have forgotten my case against the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education. Do I now turn to the Court of Law? How quickly certain Government officials cause leaders of good intent to lose their credibility. For example, with all the fiasco over payment of less than approved wages to security guards in Region Six and no remittance of NIS to the scheme, my company’s tender was below the one awarded to a new kid on the block by almost $2 million. Yippee! And he also became a favourite of former Ministers and presidential aides. I have to admire these

from page 4

guys who can fool Ministers and Governments in power with promises of support at election time.

This is an advisory to the Government: Whenever you try to select and support a particular group, those people feel chosen, protected, and hence, shame the Government and abuse the system because they feel protected. With the last Government we saw this with a particular company and another party boy favourite, who stole literally billions of dollars from NIS, paid below approved wages and specialised in theft of taxes.

This particular company operates under a different name today and has now, as it did then, a senior former Government functionary as a Director. What must Guyanese expect? I thought this new administration would have changed the entire system of deceit, manipulation, and corruption, but it seems that we are cursed!!!!!!!

Sincerely, Hajji Roshan Khan Sr

over ceremony of a David G bus, said, ‘Region Six did not vote for us, but the coalition Government still supports the people.’ This is a clear case of discrimination, and raises a lot of questions.

I can be proven incorrect if this coalition Government can give clearance for the motions to be implemented immediately, to help these poor children to go to school.

The President, at almost all the five Bs programme, reminds people that children should be given equal access to education. I only hope he remembers that and implement it immediately.

Don’t play politics with children and their education.

Another example where this coalition Government don’t respect local democ-

racy is when the RDC in Region Six propose in their 2018 budget rehabilitation and extension of a fishing wharf and access road to the wharf at Chesney, Albion Corentyne, but that was taken out from the budget and another project was given preference. This particular project would have improved and expanded the fishing industry in this area, where more than 1500 persons directly benefit, and a few hundred indirectly.

The question is: why get rid of a project of this magnitude? This is a national disgrace when you speak something that you really don’t practice.

Sincerely, Zamal Hussain RDC Councillor Region Six

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news

monDAY, march 12, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

PM to be performed GPHC to offer glaucoma screening this week on Houston accident T victims today

Dead: Mawava Chase

Dead: Berket King

ost-mortems are on Monday expected to be performed on the bodies of a male and female who perished in a deadly motorcycle accident at Houston, Greater Georgetown on Saturday evening.

Police Public Relations Officer Jairam Ramlakhan has said it is likely there will not be a protracted investigation of this double fatality, given the particulars of the accident.

However, he noted that post-mortems would be carried out on Monday to determine the official cause of death of the two persons.

The accident occurred on Saturday at about 21:15hrs, when Berket King, 25, trav-

elling south along the East Bank Highway with pillion rider Mawava Chase, lost control of his CBR motor cycle while negotiating a turn at Houston, and collided with a lamp post. The impact left King literally wrapped around the lamp post, while Chase’s body was sent flying.

Eyewitnesses related that the duo had sped off from a traffic light at Mandela Avenue and the East Bank Highway just before they met their demise at Houston.

King reportedly died on the spot, while Chase, an Immigration Officer, succumbed while receiving medical attention at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

P

he Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) will be providing a much-needed service by offering free glaucoma screenings throughout this week.

This initiative was organised in commemoration of World Glaucoma Week, which runs from March 1117.

Usually, patients would have to have the recommendation of a physician or optometrist in order to be eligible for screenings at the eye clinic. However, for this week, the GPHC has made the service more easily accessed.

The screening services will run from March 12 to March 16 at the GPHC’s Eye Clinic. The screenings are mainly open to citizens who are 40 years and over.

An exception to this, young-

er persons who have blood relatives who have been diagnosed with glaucoma. The eye clinic plans on screening some 40 persons each day and screenings are inclusive of vision tests, eye pressure tests and nerve examinations.

The GPHC has noted that the reason behind this particular initiative was the fact that many persons were not

aware that they may have glaucoma.

Also termed ‘invisible glaucoma’, the disease can be actively deteriorating a person’s optic nerve without them knowing or experiencing symptoms. Affected patients only usually go for a check-up after their vision has been affected.

On the other hand, the GPHC will also be host-

ing a Glaucoma Continuing Medical Education (CME) Session. The collaborative effort, with Medi Pharm Inc, will aim to further educate medical practitioners, predominantly optometrists and nurses, on glaucoma diagnosis and treatment methods.

Glaucoma is a disease that damages the eye’s optic nerve. This damage usually occurs when fluid builds up in the front section of the eye.

That extra fluid increases the pressure in the eye, damaging the optic nerve. The most common type of glaucoma in Guyana is ‘open angle’. This type of glaucoma is painless and completely invisible to the patient. Patients will only become aware of the problem when their vision is affected. Open angle glaucoma predominantly affects Afro-Guyanese.

Women In Business Expo concludes

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he Women In Business Expo 2018 could be deemed a resounding success as it concluded on Sunday evening.

The Expo, which was held at the Pegasus Hotel, created a platform for women to showcase their talents, business ideas and ventures. The twoday event was predominantly coordinated by popular fashion designer, Dr Sonia Noel.

The annual event concluded with a motivational

forum, which saw impactful women from across the globe gathering to share their experiences and positive advice.

Titled “Inspire you”, the event aimed at empowering women through the experiences of others who not only shared personal advice, but also guidance on corporate best practices. The speakers included Sherry Ann Dixon, Ayana Mc Calman, Hilda Bourne, Dr Jackie Evans and, of course, Sonia Noel.

Among the stellar advice given, there were also calls for men to play a larger role in women’s empowerment, as it was noted that men play a vital role in enabling a woman’s progress.

The event was a collaborative effort between the Sonia Noel Foundation for Creative Arts (SNFCA) and the Women’s Association for Sustainable Development. Of the 60-odd businesses on display, many of them showcased

locally made, hand-crafted items, which spoke much of the versatility of a woman.

This has been the third instalment of the Expo. The Women In Business Expo coincides with the world’s celebration of International Women’s Day, which was held on March 8.

The initiative seeks to give women a sense of independence, showcasing the fact that women do not have to depend on a male for financial support.

More industry stakeholders needed on GuySuCo Board – Unions

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s Government’s Cabinet members continue to settle its reported differences over nominees for the Board of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), one of the main stakeholders is calling for more industry insiders to sit on the decision-making body.

According to a leaked supposedly secret Cabinet docu-

ment, nine named nominees and two unnamed GuySuCo executives were identified for the Board to be chaired

by Colvin- Heath-London, who also serves at head to the Special Purposes Unit (SPU) which manages both the operating and non-operating estates across the country.

A senior Guyana Agricultural and General

Workers Union (GAWU) official on Sunday who had time to assess the names related that the Board should have included multiple persons with actual first-hand knowledge in the sugar industry. Guyana Times understands that former administrative manager within GuySuCo’s estates; Vishnu Panday was nominated by the union following

the entity being called to a meeting with Government.

“We would like to see more people who understand sugar Agriculture to be placed on the Board.

Even from the last Board, it wasn’t so and from what it appears from this Board, it might not have enough people with that understanding but of course Panday is very knowledgeable but he is just

SPU Head and proposed GuySuCo Board Chairman Colvin Heath-London

one person,” the GAWU official told this publication.

Guyana Times understands that the Board’s appointment is yet to be finalised as reports surfaced that some members of the Alliance for Change (AFC) arm of the coalition Government were not in favour of removing the last Chairman, Dr. Clive Thomas. Aside from the proposed Chairman and Panday, other names in the leaked secret document showed conservationist and aviation veteran Annette Arjoon, Komal Singh, Verna Adrian, Fritz McLean, Rosh Khan (Jr.), former Agriculture Ministry Permanent Secretary George Jervis and Arianne McLean.

It was on March 1 that Guyana Times reported that Dr. Thomas was “boot-

ed” from his post in favour of Heath-London. The SPU falls under the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited’s (NICIL), which in itself falls under the Finance Ministry.

NICIL’s gazette takeover on December 30, 2017, had indicated responsibility for the divested sugar estates. However, it was made clear that the takeover did not include any assets, lands or property for the Berbice estates of Albion and Blairmont and the Uitvlugt Estate on the West Coast of Demerara. However, Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder, who is an AFC member, announced that GuySuCo, was under NICIL, although it was not clear as to which legal stipulations guided such a move or if any was required.

Dr. Clive Thomas served as Chairman, being appointed to the position in 2015, a few months after the new coalition Government took office. Heath-London was appointed head of the SPU back in October 2017, after a decision was made by the Government to process the selling of GuySuCo assets, including a number of estates. Reports suggested that acting CEO of GuySuCo, Paul Bhim has been given a reduced role at the sugar company as he reportedly no longer has financial responsibility for GuySuCo.

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monDAY, march 12, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

City Council divided over King’s dethronement …several motions tabled ahead of today’s no-confidence vote

Town Clerk Royston King

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he no-confidence motion against Town Clerk Royston King is expected to go forward as planned for today, but it will be met by two motions from other Councillors, including one aimed directly at Councillor Sherod Duncan, the man behind the no-confidence vote.

This particular motion, which was seen by <<Guyana Times>>>, is being moved by Councillor Heston Bostwick and seconded by People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Councillor Monica Thomas. According to the particulars of the motion, they are seeking to have Duncan brought before a special disciplinary committee.

Citing the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01 Standing Orders, the duo in their motion accused Duncan of circulating copies of his planned no-confidence motion against King to the media.

According to the particulars of the motion, Duncan

AFC Councillor Sherod Duncan is behind the no-confidence vote

PNC Councillor Monica Thomas is backing sanctions against Duncan

Councillor Heston Bostwick is moving the motion seeking sanctions

must show cause within 14 days why he should not appear before such a committee to give account for “unethical behaviour”. It further states that “the Council repudiates and frowns upon the unethical action of (Duncan), which appears to have been calculated to affect the image and reputation of the Council”.

The Councillors went on to claim in their motion that Duncan’s alleged action was calculated “to instigate public ridicule against the Town Clerk and the Council”, among other things.

In addition to the disciplinary committee, which they want to be formed by the Council, the duo also called for the Standing Orders to be strictly enforced against all Councillors.

have the no-confidence vote against King done by secret ballot. The motion states “whereas a no-confidence motion filed against (King), this motion calls for the procedure in voting on the motion by (Duncan) to be done by secret ballot.”

Secret ballots are designed to remove fear of reprisal from those who may vote against someone of influence.

The no-confidence motion stated that King acted outside the interests of the citizens of Georgetown and showed gross disrespect for the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chap 28:01.

Duncan cited several instances of the Town Clerk disregarding Chap 28:01.

“The removal of the vendors from the Stabroek Market and Robb Street environs in 2016/2017 without the authorisation of Council, which action brought great distress and hardship on said vendors and which situation saw Central Government intervening, reiterating that

vendors ought to be treated with sensitivity; President David Granger describing the latter action as ‘reckless’,” the motion stated.

Additionally, the document identified the issues that stemmed from the con-

Secret ballot

Meanwhile, People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Councillors Bishram Kuppen and Khame Sharma are also moving a motion to

Jagdeo urges Guyanese...

“We are not confident about the integrity of the database within GECOM, so we will have to make sure that that database has not been tampered with.

We have to cross check the 2015 database with that one they have now to see if that has some unusual patterns.”

Jagdeo said his party has already requested that GECOM conduct an independent verification of the database. GECOM published a list on February 3, 2018, but according to him, an old list was provided to the Party on February 6, 2018. For this and other reasons, Jagdeo believes that there would be a need to verify the information to ensure that it was correct and reflected updated statistics.

“We have to work on enhanced biometrics, because if we don’t get an electronic form of voting, people going to polling stations will not get an extra ballot unless they are verified. We have to find a way of scrub-

bing the list and getting dead people off and make it transparent,” he added.

But regardless of these concerns, Jagdeo said the PPP would no doubt win the next elections especially since the voters

from page 3

gained by the coalition Government in 2015 have now returned to his party.

He said the odds of the coalition Government returning to office after 2020 were slim for other reasons as well.

PPP Councillors Bishram Kuppen (left) and Khame Sharma

troversial parking meter project outlining procurement issues and Government’s response.

“Councillors have made several enquiries/requests of the Town Clerk for specific information relating to the business of Council and have

no responses; in particular, Councillor Gregory Fraser’s request for the minutes showing where the former Council is alleged to have agreed to the metered parking system for Georgetown,” the motion added. turn to page 13

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monDAY, march 12, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Suddie Police lock-ups escapee still on the run

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prisoner who escaped from the Suddie Police Station lock-ups on Wednesday last is yet to be recaptured.

This was con-

firmed by Police Public Relations Officer Jairam Ramlakhan.

The prisoner, 24-yearold Leon Prince, of Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast, escaped

the lock-ups between 04:00h and 15:00h on the day in question.

The escapee was remanded to prison having been charged with simple larceny and three oth-

er offences and was required to make another court appearance today at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court.

The Police are hunting for the fugitive.

The Police prosecution’s team contended that Bourne committed the traffic offence on March 2,

2018. After the taxi operator pleaded not guilty after dialogue with his counsel, Pamela De Santos, he was released on $25,000 bail. De Santos, in her bail application, claimed that her client never had any prior problems with the law.

Presiding Magistrate Rushell Liverpool adjourned the matter to May 24, 2018 for disclosure and fixtures.

Foot and mouth Taxi driver charged for dangerous driving disease…

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Singh Street, Sisters Village, West Bank Demerara (WBD) taxi driver ended up on the wrong side of the law after Police charged him with driving dangerously earlier this month.

However, when the accused man, Keron Bourne, 23, appeared at the Wales Magistrate’s Court late last week, he denied that

he drove motor car PRR 2878 in a manner dangerous to the public along the Patentia Public Road, WBD.

Mash Day drunk driver fined $7500

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ichael Beharry was on Thursday last handed a $7500 fine and licence endorsement after he admitted to driving his PFF 1028 motor vehicle while under

the influence of alcohol.

When the charge was read to the defendant at the Wales Magistrate’s Court, he agreed with the prosecution’s facts that on February 23, 2018 at La

Grange Public Road, West Bank Demerara, his breath alcohol level exceeded the prescribed limit, being 71 micrograms.

However, Beharry said that he was not driv-

ing alone at the time.

Magistrate Rushell Liverpool informed the defendant that if he defaulted on paying the fine, he would spend one week in jail.

T

…spreading rotman just can’t leave well alone, can he? Now that the energy portfolio – read oil and gas – has been plucked from his grubby little hands, he seems driven to find excuses for his embarrassing demotion.

Namely that his giveaway on the oil contract with Exxon was so egregious, it made the rape of the Sabine women look like a friendly tussle!!

The fella seems to forget it was he who’d boasted about his “negotiation prowess” and he was going to take Exxon to the mat!! He took them to the mat, of course, but unlike the case with the Honeymooning Couple, it was soon clear he wasn’t the one “on top”!! At the time Your Eyewitness concluded he was delusional. But since he refused to reveal the details of the “deal” he’d made – save his boast he’d DOUBLED the royalty rate the PPP had accepted – your Eyewitness didn’t realise the depth of his deceit.

First, he insisted Exxon didn’t HAVE to agree with the need for a renegotiating and he had accomplished some sort of legerdemain to bring them to the table. He’s still pushing that line even though we know – after he and his government were dragged kicking and screaming to reveal the (sordid) details of the contract – the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) had a time element that had expired. But the excuses now shifted to WHY he’d rushed to sign without proper advice or help.

And now he’s not only ventured further into the realm of the delusional, but is undermining our national security. Speaking to the Bar and Bench’s seminar on the oil sector, he concocted a new “reason” for his bumbling: Maduro’s decree over our waters on May 27 (not May 26 as Trotman claimed) to include the Liza find. “It is important for Guyana to move to production as quickly as possible, so we could assert when we got to court that production was taking place within the territorial waters of Guyana. If it was that there was no production, it would be a matter for dispute as to where the realm stood. So, getting to production was strategic, because it had to do with sovereignty.”

So let us go through this slowly. We’ve never conceded there’s ANY merit in Venezuela’s claim that the full and final award was affected. THIS, in fact, was just a CONTROVERSY Venezuela created. And that’s why we wanted to take the matter to the World Court. Now, why would we want to now STRENGTHEN something that was already ironclad??! Hasn’t Trotman now introduced an element of doubt into our position?

The old saw applies here: if it ain’t broke, DON’T fix it!! Especially when it’s just to save (Trotman’s) face!! …in the AG’s Chambers When will someone take care of the embarrassment into which the Attorney General seems hell bent on imposing on his Chambers permanently? First, there was the quality of the (legal?) advice he was giving to his principal – the President and the Cabinet. He was then given five legal “luminaries” to show him some light. Didn’t help though! And the cases he insisted on pursuing which were more like personal vendettas than anything else just made him appear more vindictive than he already was.

Now he’s really gone over the edge into raging, fulltime megalomania. He claimed he wasn’t invited to the Bar and Bench’s oil seminar and, therefore, issued a decree that no one on his staff could attend. Turns out he was, in fact, invited but had declined because he would be “out of the jurisdiction”!! He obviously thought the event should’ve been postponed until he returned!!

Seems like it’s not only Ramjattan who thinks he’s the Sun King!! …in the Presidency Now why should the President want to break up the present stellar judicial team of the incumbent Chancellor and Chief Justice just to parachute in an old army squaddie?

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Please!!

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

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monDAY, march 12, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Region 3 REO accused of undermining independence of NDCs

By Ramona Luthi

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he Regional Vice Chairman of Region Three -- Essequibo Islands/West Demerara, Sheik Ayube, is accusing the Regional Executive Officer (REO) of the Local Government Department (LGD), Shameer Shahid, of acting out of his jurisdiction, of intentionally blocking Opposition- run Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC) from fulfilling their mandates, and of not paying staff. “…any time that the NDCs attempt to execute their programme or their spending, they find they are being stymied by the Local Government Department.

The Head of the Local Government Department (is Shameer Shahid],” Ayube told Guyana Times in a telephone interview.

Ayube, Head of the Local Government Committee, explained that according to the law, all of the NDCs countrywide are to be guided by Chapter 28:02 of the Local Government Act, which provides direction and specifications on how the entity should operate.

Ayube said that, every year, each NDC would budget “for what they would normally want for the year”; and once that budget is passed, the entity has “all rights to execute that Budget, without any in-

Region Three Regional Vice Chairman Sheik Ayube

terference (from) the Local Government Department of the RDC [Regional Democratic Council]”.

However, he noted, over the past two years, this has been incredibly difficult because of Shahid. The most recent incident, he said, relates to two labourers attached to the Uitvlugt NDC being left unpaid.

“I spoke to the REO on Wednesday last, and he showed me vouchers that were prepared to clear these people for January month.

Lo and behold, the local Government Department is saying to the Overseer of the Tuschen/Uitvlugt NDC that he cannot find any document as it relates to these payments. I contacted back the REO’s secretary, and she confirmed that the document was sent to the Local Government Department,” Ayube detailed.

He highlighted other incidents wherein he accused Shahid of abusing his power: “I would like to give you some examples. The Wakenaam NDC had budgeted to buy long boots for the Council of that specific NDC. They went ahead and purchased the long boots, (and) for a number of months, the Head of the Local Government Department did not pass that voucher,” he explained, while noting that it is protocol for the vouchers to be signed off by the RDC’s Local Government Department.

The Regional Vice Chairman relayed that the explanation provided by Shahid for not signing the vouchers was that “long boots is only purchased for the work committee.”

“We gotta understand that Wakenaam is an (agricultural) area and each council comes from a respective constituency, so they are expected to perform their duties in an effective way by visiting the area,” Ayube explained.

“He [Shahid] is infringing on the rights of the NDC to operate independently,” Ayube sternly asserted.

He noted that the REO has not been signing off on vouchers for council members to travel to attend statutory meetings.

“The NDC would budget for travelling for their respective councillors (from)

The Tuschen/Uitvlugt NDC centre

Wakenaam and Leguan.

Again, over a long period of time, he’s not signing the vouchers for the people to [receive their funds] for travelling. He’s impeding on the attendance of the meeting. Again, he is acting out of his jurisdiction,” Ayube explained.

This publication was told that within the regions there is a “CRIP (Community Roads Improvement Project)” programme, employment and supervision of which fall directly under the NDC. The NDC is required to report to the Region on the performance of each staff member on a monthly basis.

However, Ayube claims that the REO has again stepped out of his jurisdiction.

“What happened in Region 3, the DREO [Deputy REO] within the Local Government Department went into these NDCs and conducted interviews [for] who should be employed and who should not be em-

Bourda Market stallholders disappointed with Town Clerk’s proposal

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oming out of a meeting on Thursday, Bourda Market stallholders who protested City Hall on Wednesday calling for wholesale vendors plying their trade outside the Market to be removed are now voicing their dissatisfaction with the proposal put forward to them by Town Clerk Royston King.

According to the vendors, following their protest

action, a meeting was held with the Town Clerk and the

Market Clerk, who proposed that the vendors outside the

Market be given three hours each daily to ply their trade.

The proposal by the vendors for wholesale vendors to sell from 17:00h to 07:00h each day was shut down.

Vendor Omawattie Ramsawack revealed to Guyana Times that after the meeting was called, the vendors who attended explained the situation before them and made their proposal.

Turn to page 11

ployed. Now they are acting out of their jurisdiction.

They have no right. That is the right of the NDC to employ, (to) interview,” the Regional Vice Chairman said.

In addition, Guyana Times was told that as of late, the RDC, at the behest of Shahid, has imposed a condition wherein employees who are attached to the “CRIP” programme within NDCs cannot work elsewhere.

“These CRIP people work 4 times a week and their monies are limited, so they seek employment other ways. They [RDC] have no jurisdiction, no right, no authority to impose that (condition) on the NDC.” According to Ayube, the issue has been reported several times at the level of the

RDC statutory meeting, but nothing has been done to rectify the situation.

Ayube also said he has observed that only the NDCs run by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) are apparently being hassled by Shahid.

“I’m of the opinion that this is a planned something, because…in Region 3, most of the NDCs are run by the PPP/C. I think something has been put in place to allow the NDC to look bad where the NDC is not the contributing factor to most of these things that are happening out there… Everything is being stymied, everything is set to make [the PPP NDC] look bad, at the Local Government Department of the RDC,” he posited.

Ayube is calling on Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan to intervene and have the matter rectified as soon as possible.

“I’m calling on the Minister to put things right!” he declared.

Efforts made by this publication to contact Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan, and Regional Executive Officer of the Local Government Department, Shameer Shahid, proved futile.

10 news

monDAY, march 12, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Ogle Airport kite-flyers could be arrested

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uyanese are gearing up to celebrate the Easter holiday later this month, and kite-flyers are increasing their presence in open spaces.

However, officials at the Eugene F. Correia International Airport at Ogle (OIA) are warning members of the public to desist from flying kites at, or in close proximity to, this East Coast Demerara facility, as kite-flyers would face legal prosecution, beginning with their being arrested.

This was disclosed late last week at the Caribbean Aviation Maintenance and Services (CAMS) Hangar on the occasion of several per-

OAI Communications Specialist Kit Nascimento said those flying kites in the vicinity of the OIA will be arrested

sons receiving certificates for completing a management course in Emergency

Operations.

During that event, Ogle International Airport’s Public Communications Consultant Kit Nascimento highlighted the importance of aviation safety, and said the OIA is committed to such practices. The veteran, however, explained that kite-flying in the nearby environs poses a severe threat, especially to the engines of aircraft.

He said that kites flown anywhere in the vicinity of any airport can cause a huge emergency, (being) sucked into the engine of an aircraft, or tangled in any way at takeoff, landing, or approach. This could cause a

major calamity, Nascimento pointed out.

Ogle Airport Inc. (OAI), the company that manages the Eugene F. Correia International Airport, the Caribbean’s busiest airport, contend that members of staff are usually the recipients of threats whenever requests are made for kite-flyers to desist from their practice.

“When we ask persons to go somewhere else with their kites, they don’t always appreciate the dangers that they cause. The airport is off-limits when it comes to flying your kite, and if anyone is obstinate (stubborn) enough to persist, you will

be arrested,” Nascimento warned.

His sentiments were shared by Ogle Airport’s Operations Manager Phillip Lunch, who explained that with Easter being one of the busiest travel seasons, the Airport has to work tirelessly to ensure the travel safety of passengers.

work to do in terms of demanding that people take down kites, it’s not easy.

People threaten you, but we are looking after the safety of this airport,” Lynch detailed.

He promised there would be an aggressive media campaign to get the word out on the dangers of flying kites

“The Easter season is the busiest time the Ogle Airport can ever encounter. Because the problem of kite-flying in the approach path is very dangerous and Easter is the time when we have the most

near the OIA. “We will be taking steps to send out flyers and put ads in the newspapers, on radio and television,” the Airport’s Operations Manager noted.

(Shemuel Fanfair)

PYO makes donation to Kitty fire victims

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embers of the Progressive Youth Organization (PYO) of Central Georgetown on Saturday visited victims of last Wednesday’s fire in Kitty, Georgetown, in which three buildings were destroyed and another was damaged.

They presented the families visited with food supplies, toiletries, and educational materials for the children, who also suffered greatly.

They gave a positive chat to the children to encourage them to remain focused on their school work and pursue education, as no circumstance

can take away a person’s education.

Most of the fire victims recalled being in shock when the incident was occurring, and said this experience has changed their lives.

In their discussions, the group and the victims agreed that LIFE is its most important asset. The PYO group also bore greetings from the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) and its General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and conveyed that the party was in solidarity with, and support of, all those affected by this tragic incident.

NEWS

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monDAY, march 12, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

$300M worth of development projects for Region 2

A section of the newly-constructed landing at Liberty Primary and Nursery School

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avings of almost $300 million by the Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) administration have been reinvested into realising a number of transformational projects across the Region, to the benefit of residents.

According to Regional Executive Officer (REO) Rupert Hopkinson, the savings were made possible through prudent resource management and vigilance by the Regional Administration in 2017.

The projects realised from the ground-breaking achievement are a new boat landing for students and teachers at the Liberty Nursery and Primary School, a bus shed at Dartmouth, a fence at Unity Park, a seating area at Cotton Field and renovation and extension of the Anna Regina Health Centre.

Currently, there are 46 pupils attending the Liberty Primary School, some 18 miles down the Pomeroon River. Headteacher Pansy Garraway-Allen said the

Works continue on the Anna Regina Health Centre

new school’s landing was extremely necessary.

“Previously, the situation was very bad. It was almost a threat to any person who would have used the landing. The lower part of the stelling, some parts were rotted, a few threaders from the step were missing because the foundation was no more. … At times we had to choose spots to step on to avoid going underground in any serious state. It was also not good enough for the students. Many times, we

Bourda Market stallholders...

From page 9

However, after listening to the suggestions, Town Clerk King reportedly announced his decision and the meeting was adjourned.

“He only listen to we and then he tell we what he decided to do and then he end the meeting. But nothing ain’t change, is same struggle because since then is the same thing happening, we ain’t getting any sales,” Ramsawack explained.

As such, the wholesale vendors continued to ply their trade as per normal and the stallholders inside the market were still complaining of their livelihood being taken from them.

This publication reported on Thursday that the stallholders marched, protesting outside City Hall calling for an intervention by the Town Clerk and the Mayor.

According to them, some are forced to throw away their goods on a daily basis as a result of the lack of sales.

This situation the stallholders blame on the vendors who ply their trade outside the Market, offering their goods at a cheaper cost. As such, the vendors who occupy stalls within Bourda Market are not getting many sales.

The street vendors are re-

had to tutor the children, guiding them where to walk and avoid any sort of running on it,” Garraway-Allen explained.

The newly-extended landing is a boon for the female staff, the Headteacher continued, since “before during the spring tide in the mornings, the tide would be rather low causing some trouble to us. The flats were very far out and the

portedly only allowed to ply their trade within a fixed period, which stallholders contend they are not adhering to.

As a result, the vendors are complaining of paying for stalls inside which are not benefiting them.

One vendor, Rampaul Singh revealed that he has been paying the City Hall a large sum of money each month, alleging that stallholders are threatened if they fail to pay.

“I have been paying the Council x amount of money per month. If you do not pay within a certain time, they are threatening you to close you down. How can you make money when they have that large amount of people selling all day on Robb Street?

People cannot even traverse that road with their cars to come and buy from us because they can’t reach. I have a truck that I have to use to bring goods to my stall and I cannot even pass in. Why are they having all these people here and even before the time that they should be here,” Singh decried.

The stallholders are renewing their calls and are now pleading with the Town Clerk and Mayor to revise the decision.

boats in which we travel to school are large and when we get to school, we would normally have to stick our skirts in the tights and pull boat ropes to get up to the stelling which was very strenuous to us as females.”

According to GarrawayAllen, the students were also forced to step from one boat to another to reach the landing.

The REO said the decision to do the work was influenced mainly by the pleas of the Headteacher and the threat the dilapidated facility posed to students and teachers alike.

“Because of the danger and imminent threat to life and limb, we decided that we must have this thing done. The beautiful thing is that we had savings.

I am elated to know that we were able to rescue the situation at Liberty. It is a good job done not only for Liberty but for the Region as well,” Hopkinson explained.

Former footballer found dead in New Amsterdam house

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he body of 61-year-old Richard Lennox Blair, called ‘Finnie’ and ‘Pipe Man’, was on Sunday morning discovered in an advanced state of decomposition lying at the bottom of an inner stairway at his Lot 14 Tucber Park home in New Amsterdam Berbice, where he had lived alone since the demise of his mother more than a decade ago.

The former footballer had last been seen alive on Thursday, in the company of friends at a liquor bar.

Neighbours, having not seen Blair for some time, and detecting a stench emanating from the two-storey building in which he lived, alerted his daughter, Gail, and the Police.

According to his daughter, when the door was broken open, Blair’s body was seen at the bottom of the stairway lying on his back. His feet were resting on the stairway and his head was bracing against the wall. She said it appeared as though he was on his way to the upper flat and may have fallen and hit his head against the wall, and was thereafter unable to move. She also surmised that Blair might have had a heart attack and fell to the bottom of the stairs.

Dead; Richard Lennox Blair

Some residents who viewed the body suggested that Bair might have been intoxicated and fell as he was climbing the stairs.

In the prime of his youth, Blair was popular around football fields, but in his latter days he frequented liquor restaurants. This publication was told that Blair had fathered eight children. He also leaves to mourn one brother.

His body is awaiting a PostMortem examination which is expected to be performed today.

The Police are investigating the circumstances attending his demise.

12 news

monDAY, march 12, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Former Tourism Minister blasts Govt for neglecting Tourism sector

– says good initiatives shelved, no new policies – industry lacks energy, vision

P

eople’s Progressive Party (PPP) frontbencher in the National Assembly, former Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali, has come out swinging at Government’s handling of the sector since its ascension to office.

In a blunt assessment of the coalition’s performance, this Member of Parliament expressed disappointment that, since 2015, management of the sector has been marked by a lack of “energy and enthusiasm.”

According to Ali, the tourism sector holds much potential for Guyana, but there is need for a tourism policy to be guided by a strategic approach that is not limited to developing and marketing Guyana as a product, but caters to partnering with the private sector. He urged that that approach be devoid of political considerations.

“I’m very disappointed, over the last three years, with the lack of energy and enthusiasm and strategic vision in relation to the tourism sector. As Minister with responsibility for this sector

some years ago, we developed a strategic approach in creating an enabling environment to ensure the tourism product is marketed and developed to meet certain targets,” Ali declared.

“We also have some natural advantages in our multi-cultural society and our biodiversity. What is interesting is that a number of initiatives undertaken by the previous Government have been shelved, and there seems to be no alternative, no vision, in relation to this sector,” Ali lamented.

He related that the former administration had, over the years, developed a number of signature events, which are now either being de-emphasized or ignored by the coalition Government.

“Take, for example, the Rockstone Fish Festival, the emphasis on birding, the Guyana Festival, Phagwah, Diwali, the Wedding Expo, the Safari ….these (are) all products that took time to nurture, and we have supported these products. We need to continue to embrace these products,” he explained.

He opined that the sector has become dormant because the Ministry of Business, which has oversight of the tourism sector, lacks the energy and vision necessary to take the industry forward. Noting that the local experience continues to be underestimated, he urged that a national discussion on tourism be held.

Under Ali’s stewardship as Tourism Minister, Guyana made significant strides towards the promotion of Sustainable Tourism, and had been recognised for its efforts. Guyana’s North Rupununi, Region 9, has justified the resources poured into its development by copping the 2012 Caribbean Excellence in Sustainable Tourism Award.

The award from the Caribbean Tourism Organisation and Travelmole (CTO/ Travelmole) was accepted by Guyana’s Rupununi Learners Inc, for improving the quality of life of the region’s inhabitants.

In 2011, this award was shared by the Surama EcoLodge, also located in the North Rupununi, Region

Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo). This tourist destination was recognised by the CTO for harnessing the economic power of the visitor industry in a responsible and sustainable way.

The 2011 award was shared with Harrison’s Cave in Barbados.

Guyana’s Karanambu Lodge Inc was among the big winners of the TravelMole 2013 sustainable tourism awards handed out by the CTO. The country, for the second consecutive year, emerged as the big winner, copping three of the six prizes presented. These awards

Former Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali

pointed to the hard work and commitment of stakeholders in Guyana, and to the policy direction of the Tourism Ministry and Authority.

In January, Guyana hired US Expert Brian

Mullis as the new Director of Tourism. Indranauth Haralsingh had previously been performing the duties of director. It was explained that Mullis, a US citizen of California, was chosen from seven applicants.

Long-awaited Forensic Lab

European companies awarded over $170 million in 2 contracts

– sea defences for rehabilitation

The Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory is expected to begin DNA testing in 2018

A

s Government seeks to operationalise the long-delayed Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory, two contracts valued some $172.6 million were awarded to two European firms for the procurement of forensic equipment under the Citizen Security Strengthening Programme (CSSP).

In a Government release, it was observed that the deal was sealed by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).

According to information disclosed, Dutch healthcare provider CEDI Europe bv was granted a US$319,512.83 ($66.4 million) contract for “selected items”, while Italian-based Q and T SPA received a US$ 510, 723.47 ($106.2 million) contract under a similar “selected items” heading. When fully functional, the lab will be able to undertake DNA testing.

DNA or deoxyribonucleic acid is the building blocks of all living organisms, and DNA testing has been used to solve murders in many of the world’s countries. In July 2014, over three years ago, Guyana’s first forensic laboratory was officially opened, but the lack of DNA testing at the facility continues to hamper the solving of many high-profile murder cases.

der the second component of the Public Security Ministry’s Citizen Security Strengthening Programme to improve the lab’s effectiveness in aiding criminal investigations.

The forensic laboratory is currently equipped to conduct tests to determine fake currency, forged documents, narcotics, and ballistics.

Ramjattan had not-

A breached sea defence following last month’s overtopping

The inadequacies of the local lab came to the fore in light of last year’s brutal murder of Richard Ishmael Secondary School teacher Kescia Branche, whose battered body was found at Princes Street and Louisa Row, Georgetown.

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan had explained to reporters in December 2017 that the necessary infrastructure was still not in place to preserve the DNA samples.

He had earlier expressed hope that the facility would be fully operational by 2017, and had later given all assurances that DNA testing would be conducted at the facility sometime in 2018.

He added then that the American Embassy was supporting the move to have DNA testing done here, which falls un-

ed that staff and training on using the equipment to conduct the tests are needed.

Sea defence rehabilitation

Meanwhile, Cabinet on March 10 announced several revetment contracts for driving steel piles to shore up sea defences. The defences slated to benefit are along the coastline from Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) to Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne). Contracts were also awarded for defences on the Essequibo islands of Wakenaam, Leguan and Zeelandia.

It was earlier this month that several sea defences along sections of West Coast Demerara and East Bank Essequibo were damaged, resulting in millions of dollars in losses.

news

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monDAY, march 12, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Linden women honour, spread hope AG dismisses questions over on, International Women's Day Bar Association Conference controversy

rationale behind action

...more concerned about constitutional challenge case

F

ollowing his threats of salary cuts and warnings, Attorney General (AG) and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams was dismissive when questioned about his staff being disallowed from attending a two-day Oil and Gas Law Conference, organised by the Guyana Bar Association (GBA).

It was late last week that judges, magistrates and lawyers from across the country gathered for discussions aimed at exploring the legal framework of the oil and gas sector.

However, legal practitioners attached to the AG’s Chambers and Legal Affairs Ministry were warned not to attend the event.

Guyana Times contacted the Minister to garner the reasoning behind his decision to implement such a policy, especially when he was overseas, but the AG, in the brief interview, avoided the questions, having observed that he was more focused on preparations for the constitutional challenge case at the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

“I wasn’t in the country... right now I’m preparing for the CCJ, so I can’t get distracted.

Right now, you can’t ask me that, I am looking after CCJ and the third term,” Williams told this newspaper. After this brief disclosure, he discontin-

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams

ued the conversation.

The conference was the brainchild of acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards.

However, in a memorandum dated March 8, 2018 that was placed in the office, staffers were barred from attending the Conference without the permission of the AG and Legal Affairs Minister.

The notice, which was seen by this newspaper, stated, “Please be informed that ‘no staff’ is permitted to attend the Guyana Oil and Gas Law Training Development Conference event hosted by the Guyana Bar Association on Friday 9th March, 2018 without the permission of the Attorney General and Legal

Affairs Minister.” The memo, which was in the name of acting Permanent Secretary Tamika Barkoye, had further warned staffers that their salaries would be cut if they did not adhere to the order.

“Please note that absence from work will result in salary deduction,” the memo added.

Guyana Times had made efforts to contact the Legal Affairs Ministry’s PS for a comment and further clarification on the matter, but she was “unavailable”.

This publication reported that the Minister’s move might have been because the organisers of the Conference did not facilitate his schedule when hosting the event. The GBA is headed by Attorney-at-Law Kamal Ramkarran.

Several of Minister Williams’ Cabinet colleagues, who are also legal practitioners, attended the opening of the Conference: Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman; acting Prime Minister and Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan and Minister of State, Joseph Harmon.

Minister Trotman had delivered a detailed presentation on the oil and gas sector, touching on the ExxonMobil contract, oil discoveries and the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy.

City Council divided over Unilateral decision

The implementation of container fees and the subsequent unilateral decision to block certain businesses for failing to comply; failure to account for $300 million allocated for the Georgetown Restoration Programme resulting in the Auditor General announcing a forensic audit of the city’s books; disrespect for the tendering process; non-payment of contractors and the inaccuracy in the financial reporting were all reasons that led to Duncan submitting the motion and fellow [Alliance For Change] AFC Councillor and Deputy Mayor, Lionel Jaikaran seconding it. “[AND WHEREAS] the general welfare of workers

of the City Council continues to diminish under the tenure of the Town Clerk due to the chronic late payments of wages and salaries and other benefits, while deduction of monies from workers’ pay for NIS, PAYE, etc, continue, but which are not transmitted to the relevant agencies… the Town Clerk unilaterally entered into an agreement with the company Impressions for the lease of numerous billboards and spaces said billboards occupied, without the authorisation of Council, and which issue caused the Minister of Infrastructure, Honourable David Patterson to write to the Town Clerk to correct,” Duncan said in his motion.

from page 7

Bel Air Playground

In addition, the issue of the leasing of the Farnum Play Ground and the conversion of the Bel Air Playground area; the awarding of contracts without Council’s knowledge and the gross disrespect meted out to Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan were all raised.

“NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Council hereby moves and declares a vote of no confidence in Town Clerk Royston King,” the motion concluded.

Over the past months, dissatisfaction with King’s performance has grown and pressure has mounted for his removal since the hierarchy of the PNCR has expressed no confidence in his ability to function.

W

omen of Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) joined with women across the world in observing International Women's Day 2018 on Thursday with a grand march past and appreciation ceremony.

The events were organized by Virtuous Women on a Mission, Women on the Move, and Cutting Edge, in collaboration with other stakeholders.

A procession of women marched from the Wismar Market Square to the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground in Linden, where an empowering ceremony was held. Delivering the main address was Linda Johnson of the Women on a Mission international organization, who urged women to reach out and encourage each other, not only on the occasion of International Women's Day. Under the motto of her organization, Johnson noted that, together, women are stronger, as she urged them to come together and inspire each other.

"We need to empower and encourage each other in order to rise...and we can rise together", Johnson stated.

Lurlena Roberts of the No Woman No Cry organization, in delivering brief remarks, said the objectives of the celebration have evolved over the years to embrace culture and ethnicity, and to emerge as a celebration of appreciation,

respect and love towards women.

She stressed the importance of celebrating women, and regretted that violence is still being meted out against them.

Roberts also implored all to embrace this year's International Women's Day theme. "Women’s empowerment lies in honouring yourself and treating yourself with respect," she said.

First Lady of Linden, Nikosi Holland, speaking on behalf of the Linden Youth Leaders, stated that it was a day to celebrate womanhood and identity. She noted that it is also an occasion which often highlights harsh truths about the still prevailing issue of gender inequality and abuse of women.

"I am less inclined than I used to be to believe that our power has been taken away from us. I'm more inclined to say that we have started giving up our power...our power and rights, yes, sometimes are trampled, but at times we also act as if we are pow-

erless...

“I'm not purporting that women's rights are always protected. In fact, the high rate of sexual and physical violence and socio- economic disadvantages is evidence enough of this reality.

However, it is imperative that we demonstrate our determination to live as the powerful creatures that we were created to be...," Holland noted.

She further urged women not to miss the opportunity to enjoy their rights, as she alluded to the issue of self-deprivation of women, which she noted is prevalent in our society.

Holland also called on women not to support any event or activity that is degrading to them. She said women are powerful and valuable even more than they realize, and have the power to mould and shape the attitudes of their children. She has urged women to embrace their power and values.

Several women, also, were awarded for their outstanding contributions to society.

14 news

monDAY, march 12, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Assuria officially opens branch in Linden

T

he Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) community of Linden will now benefit from the services offered by Assuria Life, Fire and General Insurance, as the company opened a branch in the mining town on Friday.

A meet-and-greet and a ribbon-cutting exercise marked the official opening of the branch, situated at Republic Avenue, Mackenzie.

Under its two registered companies (Life and General), Assuria will be offering services such as life, motor and fire insurance;

bonds and contractors’ liability.

Assuria General Manager Yogindra Arjune said the company was pleased and excited about extending its services to the Linden community and was optimistic that it would be successful.

He noted that though the opening of the branch took a number of years, the timing was right.

“The town is developing at a very rapid rate and we want to be here at the time when it is being developed.

We want to play our part in developing Linden. So, we’re excited,” he stated.

Arjune added that the company would be offering unique packages at affordable prices with easy payment options.

“Contractors’ insurance, we’re very big in that and we want to help in every way possible to bring something unique to Linden...,” he said.

Outgoing Linden Mayor Carwyn Holland, who was present at the ceremony, expressed gratitude to the insurance company for investing in the town.

“It shows that investors are building their confidence in our town and we’re happy that they would have seen

GTT launches Gyaff-A-Lot bundles

G

TT on Saturday launched its GyaffA-Lot bundles; these would afford customers to

Plan

four packages, which give customers the flexibility to choose the bundle that best suits their lifestyle.

Voice and SMS GTT

still pay less.

The Gyaff-A-Lot bundles ensure huge savings when compared to what the oth-

Whatsapp Chat

Other Networks

(incl. US and Canada)

Data

Price

Gyaff-A-Lot 3 Days

Unlimited

30 Minutes

Unlimited

200MB

$999

Gyaff-A-Lot 7 Days

Unlimited

50 Minutes

Unlimited

800MB

$1,599

Gyaff-A-Lot 14 Days

Unlimited

100 Minutes

Unlimited

1GB

$3,199

Gyaff-a-lot 30 Days

Unlimited

200 Minutes

Unlimited

3GB

$6,099

always stay connected while doing the things they love at affordable rates.

The Gyaff-A-Lot bundles combine unlimited talk and text on the GTT network; unlimited WhatsApp Chat; minutes to call the US, Canada and the other network; plus data for customers’ other online needs.

Gyaff-A-Lot comes in

“GTT continues to listen to feedback from its customers. We have been providing, and will continue to provide, the changes they have recom-mended,” GTT’s Chief Executive Officer Justin Nedd stated.

He also said it is a win for customers, who would be able to Do More with their Gyaff-A-Lot bundles and

er network has to offer, and are available via the *100# menu as well as the My GTT App, according to GTT. For more information, customers can LiveChat with the GTT Customer Experience Agents at gtt. co.gy. Live Chat is available from Monday to Friday from 8:00h to 18:00h.

Assuria agent Meeriel Seon cuts the ribbon to mark the official opening of the company, while executives and outgoing Linden Mayor Carwyn Holland look on

it fit to invest and come to this end and also to employ Lindeners; which is good for us. We want to see more Lindeners being employed.

“Besides that, the offering of insurance in affordable packages, I think that is good for Linden,” Holland stated.

He added that the ser-

vices which are offered by Assuria would also be beneficial to local contractors looking to secure bonds and the like, as there has been some difficulty faced in this regard.

The outgoing Mayor said Assuria has also made a promise to fulfil its social responsibility to the com-

munity.

The company has so far employed three Lindeners. Assuria, which is a Suriname- based company, currently has five branches across Guyana, some six years after it was established in this country. It has two branches in Trinidad.

Charges likely for “Otisha” today – Police PR

T

he Police have, on Sunday, said it would “likely” be recommended that charges be laid on Monday against transgender Otis “Otiesha” Pearson, who has been accused of paedophilia.

Pearson was arrested on March 6 last, and has been in custody for almost six days, as Police continue their investigations regarding his involvement with underage males.

“We received the file from the Child Care and Protection Agency (CCPA) and we are now investigating the matter officially,” Police “A” Division Commander Leslie James told this publication.

The Child Care and Protection Agency (CC&PA) closed its investigation into Pearson’s alleged misconduct back in February.

According to CC&PA

Otis “Otiesha” Pearson

Director Ann Green, the Agency has gathered statements from a number of persons, including the young man in the middle of the controversy, and it is expected to move ahead with the case.

The public became enraged when Pearson was heard in an interview reporting that he “has a little boy for every day of the week”.

However, after he was bashed on social media, Pearson quickly defended himself by explaining that the term “little boy” was taken out of context. He attempted to cover up his alleged transgressions by stating that the term is actually referring to persons above the legal age of consent, and he said it is also used when referring to his colleagues.

The statement quickly became a serious matter when a photo of Pearson hugging a young man was leaked on social media site Facebook. Many users of that site were of the opinion that the young man was underage, the age of consent in Guyana being 16.

After the photos were leaked, investigations revealed that the lad was indeed below the age of 16, and that he was being bullied.

Case against First Alley man accused of narcotics trafficking dismissed

R

oylon Ferrier, 39, of 53 First Alley, Wismar, Linden, walked out of the Linden Magistrate’s Court a free man on Tuesday after a charge of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking which was levelled

against him was dismissed

by Magistrate Clive Nurse.

Ferrier was accused of having 95 grams of cannabis sativa in his possession while at First Alley on April 3, 2017. Magistrate Nurse, in delivering the verdict, told the court that the pros-

ecution did not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant was guilty of the offence.

Ferrier, after thanking the Magistrate, exited the courtroom with family members by his side.

Lindener fined $60,000+ for traffic offences

T

wenty-five-year-old Mark DeClou was on Tuesday fined the total sum of $60,000 for two traffic-related offences. The defendant appeared before Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Linden Magistrate’s Court.

The court heard that on February 28, DeClou drove

motorcycle CH 9611 without being the holder of a driver’s licence. He pleaded guilty to the charge and was ordered to pay a fine of $30,000 or spend eight weeks in prison.

DeClou was also charged with breach of insurance to which he pleaded guilty and was fined $30,000 or eight

weeks in prison. The third charge was breach of a one way, which stated that he rode south along Mora Street, Mackenzie, Linden on the said day, to which he pleaded not guilty. For this charge, he was placed on $10,000 bail and will return to court on March 14, 2018.

15

monDAY, march 12, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

VOX POPULI

What the people say

I SAY...

What are some of the developmental projects Government should be spending oil money on in the future?

Davika Seeraj

“I think that revenues from the oil should be spent on developing the country’s infrastructure and providing better facilities such as health care and education to the Guyanese public.

It should also be used to improve the roads.”

Natasha Azeez

Pooran Ramsarup

“More street lights, development of physical infrastructure at UG (toilets, proper chairs, fans or air conditioning). They need to put money into all aspects of the arts, including storytelling and maintaining our museums. Additionally, market local tourism and make it more accessible to Guyanese.”

“The money can be spent on improving the schools and initiatives that create more jobs for people in the country.”

Lincoln Zephyr

“General sports development, elderly folks’ care, security in general for the entire country. Try to accomplish top-level infrastructure, for example roads and bridges. Boost the tourism and entertainment sector of the country, raise the threshold for public servants, produce and grow more.”

Shaunell Wilson

Delroy Cupidore

“Our profits should be put into proper and I repeat proper infrastructure and Government facilities, [including] up-to-date and modernised hospitals, schools and practical instruction centres. Guyana has too many resources to be ranked as an underdeveloped country.”

“Government should first start with the basic things like ensuring that our roads are built up to standard, that our streets have proper lights, that everyone is fed (the struggle is too much)… things to beautify the country and to ensure that we no longer look like a Third World country. Then, they can undertake bigger projects such as building factories for Guyanese to seek employment, etc.”

Eze Nurse

“I would say more job opportunities, institutional facilities and teaching programmes.

Because many of our youth are dropping out of school. I’ll also add that there should be more facilities for sport.”

Gavin Persaud

“The way business is conducted in Guyana is outdated.

We have to push ourselves into the electronic future. Digital data is where it’s at. We operate on way too many “paper trail” processes. If we computerise the processes, it’ll make everything more proficient. A good example is as simple as a driver’s licence. Create a points system. Implement it and have an electronic way of managing the data so these guys can pay the price for driving the way they do. In time, they’ll follow the road laws. And that’ll significantly reduce accidents, which will in turn reduce fatalities on the road.

It’ll also ease congestion on our roadways. For that to function properly, we need a dependable power company and internet provider.

“Another thing is our infrastructure. The roadways weren’t designed to accommodate so many vehicles on the road as we have today, mainly Georgetown. We need to build up! There’s no congestion in the sky. Let’s merge these public offices and build taller buildings around Georgetown. That’ll free up space to revise an updated and efficient traffic plan for the future.

“The main thing is the domino effect. We have to look at things that will have multiple positive influences and effects. It’s possible. But only if we make it happen.”

Dennis Glasgow

“Guyana needs to address infrastructure; and a complete makeover is necessary, and this needs to go beyond Georgetown. I also believe that we should really invest in the education sector and the ripple sectors to better address the provision of education. Health care should be top priority as well especially in riverine and hinterland communities. Guyana should definitely invest in agriculture and traditional family; and I think we have been negating this sector in recent years, but I don’t plan on eating oil and if we want to be the “bread basket” of the Caribbean then we need to ensure that our agricultural sector is strengthened.”

Matthews Ridge residents call for meeting with manganese company

R

esidents of Matthews Ridge in Region One (Barima-Waini) are thrilled at the economic prospects resuscitation of the manganese industry will bring to their community; but are also desirous of meeting with the major players involved in the industry -- a request which Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley has said can be facilitated.

The Chairman was part of Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan’s delegation which visited several communities in Region One On Saturday, and met with residents of the village.

One of the concerns residents raised was their lack of knowledge about what is unfolding in the community regarding the project. They requested that officials of the Guyana Manganese Incorporated (GMI) meet with them.

The Regional Chairman

told residents that the council had recently met with, and had requested a proposal from, the company on how the RDC can lend its support. He explained that the council is only interested in the welfare of the residents.

“My concern, as Regional Chairman, is not to say yes when a company has come into the region -- that we want them to work and provide jobs; but it must be something that is sustainable, and the people must not be shortchanged,” Ashley declared.

“So, we are going to hold them to their words; at the end of the day, the people are the priority and they must benefit,” he expressed.

Some of the residents of Matthew’s Ridge at the meeting, with BarimaWaini’s Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley addressing residents in the presence of Minister of Communities

Ronald Bulkan Last Monday, Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman, along with Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Cui Jianchun, visited the site to assess the progress that has been made since Guyanese Manganese Incorporated purchased the area from Reunion Manganese Incorporated (RMI) of Canada.

Minister Trotman charged the company to honour its corporate social responsibility, and singled out the community hospital for attention in this regard.

“We expect you to be a good corporate citizen, and to give back,” Minister Trotman said.

When construction of the plant commences in July this year, some 550 Guyanese are expected to be employed. Extraction of the manganese is expected to begin in early 2019.

16

guyanatimesgy.com

monDAY, march 12, 2018

Regional

creates Cuba votes as post-Castro era looms Chile law to protect its

C

ubans went to the polls on Sunday in a one-party vote, the last step before a new president is selected next month, as the Communist-ruled island prepares to be led for the first time since the 1959 revolution by someone whose last name is not Castro.

Cubans are asked to endorse two official lists of candidates for the national and provincial assemblies.

The Government depicts the vote, which takes place every five years, as a symbolic show of unity in the face of US hostility.

This year, though, the new national assembly will select a president to replace 86-year-old Raul Castro on April 19. Starting with Raul’s late older brother Fidel, the Castros have ruled the Caribbean island for nearly six decades.

Cuba's President Raul Castro (left) and Cuba's First Vice President Miguel Diaz-Canel are seen during the National Assembly in Havana, Cuba, December 21, 2017

Leaders of the Cuban exile community in the United States, including Republican US Senator Marco Rubio, have called on President Donald Trump not to recognise the election results, saying the process is a fraud designed to legitimise a dictatorship.

Raul Castro voted with little fanfare at dawn in the foothills of the Sierra Maestra mountains in southeast Cuba, where he had led a group of guerrillas during the revolution.

Castro, who succeeded his brother as President in 2008, is expected to remain

at the helm of the powerful Communist Party while First Vice President Miguel Diaz-Canel, 57, is expected to become President.

Diaz-Canel, a party functionary since his youth, would be Cuba’s first modern Head of State who was born after the revolution and has no military history.

In central Villa Clara province, where Diaz-Canel grew up and was head of the Communist Party, the candidate and his wife voted alongside local residents, smiling and chatting with them.

He told reporters the election signalled that Cubans wanted to defend their independence, and criticised the Trump Administration for undermining a fragile détente established under former US President Barack Obama. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Colombia election: Former FARC rebels face 1st ballot

C

olombians went to the polls on Sunday in congressional elections that will see former members of the FARC guerrilla group take part for the first time.

The ex-rebels, now known as the Revolutionary Alternative Common Force (also FARC), were given 10 congressional seats as part of a historic peace deal signed in 2016.

But opinion polls give the left-wing group little chance of making gains.

The vote is being viewed as a test ahead of May’s presidential elections.

Analysts expect the composition of Colombia’s

The vote is being viewed as a test ahead of presidential elections in May

Congress to remain largely the same, with conservative parties who oppose the peace agreement hoping to win an absolute majority.

The Centro Democratico

party, led by former president and current senator Alvaro Uribe, is predicted to win the most seats.

Uribe’s party has fiercely opposed the peace deal and

its members include some of the FARC’s most vocal enemies.

The peace agreement has polarised the country because FARC rebels fought the Government for more than 50 years and more than 260,000 people were killed in the conflict.

Under the terms of the 2016 deal, the FARC are guaranteed 10 seats in the legislature as long as it campaigns for them.

The BBC’s Katy Watson, who is in Bogotá, says that many Colombians believe it is too soon to see former rebels in positions of power and say they should have been punished for their crimes.

ther autonomy to the island of Tobago within the context of the sovereign democratic State of Trinidad and Tobago”.

The Bill is being sent to a Joint Select Committee, which is to report back to Parliament by July 31.

“The amendment of the Republican Constitution which establishes the present foundation is necessary to provide the autonomy which Tobago requires,” Rowley said.

“This will allow Tobago

to play a meaningful role in the fulfilment of the Sustainable Development Goals as well as to advance and align Tobago’s development towards the attainment of Vision 2030.

“The Government humbly submits this bill for the fullest participation through a Joint Select Committee of this Honourable House and trust that it will be received and advanced to the satisfaction of all the people of our beloved Republic of

Trinidad and Tobago, particularly our brothers and sisters in Tobago,” he added.

A month after the September 2015 General Election which his People’s National Movement won, Rowley had indicated that Government would begin considering proposals from the Tobago House of Assembly for self–governance that would make Tobago free from the control or power of Central Government. (Caribbean360)

Be nosy neighbours, Police encourage Jamaicans

A

s s i s t a n t Commissioner of Police (acting) McArthur Sutherland says the fact that two wanted men were found in neighbouring islands underscores the need for citizens to partner with the Police.

Sutherland, of the Criminal Investigations Branch Headquarters, said that a review of the data highlighted the phenom-

enon of criminal migration; he revealed that two of those who were arrested were nabbed in neighbouring islands and pointed out that the arrest/fatal shooting of all but one of the 21 persons occurred outside of the division in which they were wanted.

According to a release from the Police’s Corporate Communications Unit, over the past year, the

efforts of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has seen the arrest and charging of 10 wanted individuals, while another 11 were fatally shot during confrontations with Police teams.

Sutherland, while making an appeal for people to support the JCF’s Lent Campaign for wanted individuals said: “Be a nosy neighbour. If you see a

C

hile has created a new law protecting the waters along its 6400-kilometre (4000-mile) coastline.

The outgoing President, Michele Bachelet, signed the decree, which creates nine marine reserves.

President Bachelet, who is ending her term of office this week, said that Chile needed to establish the basis on which it would conserve its marine territory for the future.

This year, Chile also signed into law a vast network of nature parks.

“Who we are and who we can be is inevitably tied up with our 6400-kilometre coast. This is why it is so important to understand that the sea is vital for our national development,” President Bachelet said.

The new legislation will increase the area of sea under Chilean State protection

from 4.3 per cent to 42.4 per cent, and protect marine life in around 1.4 million square kilometres of sea.

One of the new reserves covers the area around the Diego Ramírez Islands, home to sea lions, kelp forests and whales. Another covers the Juan Fernández Islands.

In September last year, Chile opened a huge marine park around Easter Island, which is home to species only found there.

The reserve is about the size of Chile itself and will be co-administered with the Indigenous population, who will continue to be allowed to fish there.

During her administration, Mrs Bachelet also signed a deal to create the largest network of natural parks in South America, in Patagonia, after a large private land donation. (Excerpt from

BBC News)

T&T Govt gets low marks for midterm performance

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Tobago closer to self-governance A

mendments to the Trinidad and Tobago Constitution that if passed would give Tobago autonomy were Friday presented to Parliament.

Prime Minister, Dr Keith Rowley said the Constitution (Amendment) (Tobago Self Government) Bill 2018 was developed “after a very long and transparent process of research, extensive public consultations and a genuine desire to advance and improve the process of granting fur-

ocean habitat

strange individual in your community, or anything untoward, do not hesitate to call the Police”.

“Give them up. Crime Stop and the 811 tip line are both anonymous and secure, and information that leads to the arrest and charge of a person is rewarded. Partner with the Police to make your communities safer,” he added.

(Jamaica Observer)

Prime Minister, Dr Keith Rowley and his Cabinet members

O

n September 7, 2015, the People’s National Movement (PNM) swept into office on a platform of promises – chief of which was to reduce crime and tackle corruption. And even as the PNM marked two-anda-half years in office last Wednesday, the public continue to cower in fear over the runaway crime situation while holding its breath to see Government’s promises materialise.

Local experts and members of the public alike have found the PNM’s performance thus far to be disappointing.

Business operators have been lamenting the declining economic realities as they struggle for foreign exchange in order to survive.

Some citizens have been praying for lower food prices and to hold on to their jobs, while others have been left totally disappointed and disillusioned with the

handling of the Tobago air and sea-bridge fiasco, which continues to linger.

Economist Dr Marlene Attzs said the PNM and by extension Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley had both earned a “D” (referred to as Disappointment) for their performance.

Surveying certain sectors of society and the Government’s response to burning issues such as crime, economic improvement, and unemployment, economist Indera SagewanAlli said there had been no significant improvements over 2017.

However, political analyst Dr Winford James was more generous in his projections as he applauded the Government for being able to achieve a “balance”. He awarded them one point more than last year for overall improvements, bringing their score to six out of ten – ten being the highest score. (Excerpt from

Trinidad Guardian)

monDAY, march 12, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

17

Around the World

China’s Xi allowed to be ‘president Trump: N Korea talks could bring world’s for life’ as term limits removed “greatest deal” C hina has approved the removal of term limits for its leader, in a move that effectively allows Xi Jinping to remain as President for life.

The constitutional changes were passed by China’s annual sitting of the National People’s Congress on Sunday.

The vote was widely regarded as a rubber-stamping exercise. Two delegates voted against the change and three abstained, out of 2964 votes.

China had put a twoterm limit on its President since the 1990s.

But Xi, who would have been due to step down in 2023, defied the tradition of presenting a potential successor during October’s

President Xi Jinping applauded after the amendment was passed

Communist Party Congress.

Instead, he consolidated his political power as the Party voted to enshrine his name and political ideology in the party’s constitution – elevating his status to the level of its founder, Chairman Mao. On paper, the Congress

is the most powerful legislative body in China – similar to the Parliament in other nations. But it was widely believed that it would approve what it was told to.

The issue is not, however, without controversy.

Online censors in China have been blocking discus-

sion around the topic, including images of Winnie the Pooh. Social media users have taken to using the cartoon character to represent Xi. One Government critic described the proposal in an open letter last month as a “farce”, in a rare show of public dissent.

Former State newspaper editor Li Datong wrote that scrapping term limits for the President and Vice President would sow the seeds of chaos – in a message sent to some members of the national congress.

“I couldn’t bear it any more. I was discussing with my friends and we were enraged. We have to voice our opposition,” he told BBC Chinese. (Excerpt from BBC News)

U

S President Donald Trump has said his planned summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un could either fail or lead to the “greatest deal for the world”.

At a political rally in Pennsylvania, Trump told supporters he believed North Korea wanted to make peace.

But he said he might leave the talks quickly if it did not look like progress for nuclear disarmament could be made.

In his speech, the US leader warned of tariffs on European cars, and launched his slogan for re-election in 2020.

“Hey, who knows what’s going to happen?” said Trump on Saturday at the rally for a Republican congressional candidate. “I may leave fast or we may sit down and make the greatest deal for the world.”

In his wide-ranging speech, he said he hoped a deal to ease nuclear tensions would happen, particularly to help countries like North Korea.

He also said he believed the North Koreans would honour their commitment not to test any more missiles. Trump told the crowd: “I think they want to make peace, I think it’s time.” (Excerpt

from BBC News)

Syrian army splinters rebel Hundreds urged to wash clothes enclave in Ghouta onslaught after UK nerve agent attack

T

he Syrian army broke apart the rebel enclave in eastern Ghouta on Sunday, cutting off two major towns from the rest of the area, State media said, after a fierce battle waged under the cover of an unrelenting bombardment.

State television on Sunday broadcast from the eastern Ghouta town of Mudeira, which State television and a war monitor said the army had captured to link up with units on the other side of the enclave.

A military media unit run by the Iran-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah, an ally of the Syrian Government, said the army had also entirely surrounded the town of Douma.

Footage showed several massive plumes of smoke in the distance behind a war-ravaged townscape

H

undreds of people who visited the Zizzi restaurant or the Mill pub in the English city of Salisbury were told on Sunday to wash their clothes after traces of a nerve agent used to attack a former Russian spy last week were found at both sites.

and contaminate skin.

Former double agent Sergei Skripal, 66, and his daughter Yulia, 33, have been in hospital in critical condition since March 4, when they were found unconscious on a bench in the southern English cathedral city of Salisbury. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Rwanda: 16 churchgoers killed by lightning; 140 injured Smoke rises from eastern Ghouta in Damascus, Syria, March 10, 2018

with big holes in walls and roofs, and yet more smoke wafting across the streets.

The sound of blasts could be heard.

More than 1100 civilians have been killed in the on-

slaught on the biggest rebel stronghold near Damascus since it began three weeks ago with a withering bombardment, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. (Excerpt from Reuters)

India, Pakistan in diplomatic spat after ISI raids Indian complex

I

ndia and Pakistan are in the middle of a major diplomatic spat with both sides accusing each other of harassing, even intimidating, diplomats.

While Pakistan has now issued a demarche to India saying it was becoming difficult for its diplomats to function in Delhi, sources there said the present round of hostility was initiated by an ISI raid on a residential complex under construction for Indian diplomats in Islamabad.

A group of seven to eight men raided the residential complex last month and disconnected the electricity and water supply to the property, which is owned by India.

Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria met the Pakistan Foreign Secretary on February 16 to strongly

Public Health England said there was no immediate health risk to anyone who may have been in either the restaurant or the pub, but there was a small chance that any of the agent that had come into contact with clothing or belongings could still be present in minute amounts

A

lightning strike killed at least 16 people and injured dozens more at a Seventh-Day Adventist church in Rwanda on Saturday, an official said.

Most of the victims died instantly when lightning hit the church in the southern district of Nyaruguru, local mayor Habitegeko Francois told AFP. Two people died from their injuries, and 140 people were rushed to hospital and health centres.

Lightning also killed a student in the area on Friday, the Mayor said.

The weather accident in the mountainous region near the border with Burundi took place around

Local farmers work the land just outside Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda in this file photo. The country’s hilly landscape makes it a site of frequent lightning strikes (Ben Curtis/Associated Press)

midday on Saturday while parishioners of the town of Gihemvu were at a church service.

“Doctors say that only three [more churchgoers] are in critical condition but they

are getting better,” Francois told AFP on Sunday.

He said that in Friday’s incident, lightning struck a group of 18 students in the area, killing one. (Excerpt from BBC

News)

11 presumed dead after private Turkish plane crashes in Iran Sources said the present round of hostility was initiated by an ISI raid on a residential complex under construction for Indian diplomats in Islamabad.

protest such “multiple acts of hooliganism” against Indian staff and property. Despite the protest by Bisaria, the power supply was not restored for over two weeks.

Bisaria himself had his car intercepted recently in the middle of the road as he was prevented from attending an

event, sources said.

Official sources in India did not confirm a report in Pakistani media that Islamabad had threatened to pull out family members of their diplomats, but said India would investigate the allegations. (Excerpt from Times of India)

A

ll 11 people on board a private Turkish plane were presumed dead on Sunday after it crashed and burst into flames on an Iranian mountainside while bringing a wealthy businessman’s daughter and her friends home from a Dubai bachelorette party.

The plane was owned by the private holding company of Turkish businessman Huseyin Basaran, and car-

ried eight passengers and three crew, an official for Turkey’s transport ministry said.

Those on board included Basaran’s daughter Mina and seven of her friends, all flying back from a party ahead of her planned wedding next month.

Basaran, a former deputy chairman of Trabzonspor football club, owns businesses that span yachts to en-

ergy. His construction projects include a large housing project on Istanbul’s Asian side called “Mina Towers”, named after his daughter.

The head of the Turkish Red Crescent, Kerem Kinik, told Reuters there was “no chance” of any survivors, given the aircraft was a jet and it was flying in snowy weather, although he was unable to officially confirm fatalities. (Excerpt from Reuters)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

monDAY, March 12, 2018

ARCHIE

Take hold of what’s important to you and don’t let (March 21go, even if someone plays an April 19) emotional mind game with you. Letting someone limit what you can do will set you back.

ARIES

Get involved in a project TAURUS or make the effort to learn (April 20- something new. The encounMay 20) ter you have with someone you meet will change your life. Participate and reciprocate.

dilbert

Don’t be too trusting. You GEMINI have plenty to offer, and your (May 21enthusiasm will be appreciatJune 20) ed. Someone is likely to twist your words or take credit for your ideas.

Look for the positive in every situation. Use your intu(June 21- ition to help you understand July 22) why you are faced with opposition so you can find a way to compromise.

CANCER

Peanuts

Think about the way you LEO present yourself or the way (July 23- you deal with co-workers, Aug. 22) friends and family. Be open and receptive to change.

Participate in something VIRGO that’s within your budget to (Aug. 23bring you closer to the people Sept. 22) you care about most. Spend time with kids, parents or a friend in need.

Calvin and Hobbes

Trouble will brew at home LIBRA (Sept. 23- or with friends or co-workers Oct. 23) today. Keep the peace, even if it means spending time on your own. A little pampering will do you good.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

TODAY’S WORD – MORPHOLOGY (MORPHOLOGY: mor-FAHL-uh-jee: The form and structure of an organism.)

Refuse to let someSAGITTARIUS one restrict your freedom.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21) Demanding people need to be put in their place. Take care of your responsibilities and suggest others do the same.

Average mark 27 words Time limit 45 minutes Can you find 40 or more words in MORPHOLOGY? The list will be published tomorrow.

SATURDAY’S WORD — INQUEST inset nest quest quiet quint quit quite

unit unite unset untie etui sent sequin

sine site snit squint stein stun suet

suint suit suite tine tune

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

Copyright 2015, Distributed by Universal Uclick for UFS

If you make a couple of SCORPIO changes to your office space (Oct. 24Nov. 22) or living arrangements, it will make a world of difference to your daily output.

Stop procrastinating and get started.

solution for Puzzle

An emotional incident will CAPRICORN (Dec. 22- change everything. Be careJan. 19) ful how you deal with friends, peers and relatives. A wrong word or move will be difficult to reverse.

Look at what you’ve acAQUARIUS complished in the past and (Jan. 20use old successes to build Feb. 19) new ones. Trust in your instincts and let your experience lead to victory.

PISCES Do what you can to pitch (Feb. 20- in and help, even if someone March 20) who likes to command your attention complains. It will feel good to help a cause you care about.

monDAY, march 12, 2018

Karachi set to host Pakistan-West Indies T20Is W

A gigantic Pakistani flag engulfs one of the stands

est Indies are set to become the latest international team to tour Pakistan.

Najam Sethi, the PCB chairman, has announced that they will visit the country in early April for a series of three T20Is, all of them to be played in Karachi.

These will be the first international matches in Karachi since the 2009 attacks on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore brought international cricket in Pakistan to a virtual halt. Pakistan have played nearly all their "home" matches in the UAE since then. There has been a slow trickle of international teams returning to Pakistan since 2015, with Zimbabwe, a World XI, and most re-

cently Sri Lanka making short visits for limited-overs games, but all of them were confined to the Gadaffi Stadium in Lahore. Karachi is also set to host the final of the ongoing Pakistan Super League.

"I have been working day and night to conclude an agreement with West Indies which I have just finalised an hour ago," Sethi said. "Good news is that West Indies will play three games, on [April, 1, 2 and 4], but these matches will be played in Karachi.

They will not play in Lahore but in Karachi. That is how we intend to put Karachi back on the cricket map once again. The PSL final, and now three more games for Karachi as per routine.

Karachi people should welcome this."

Sethi said Reg Dickason, the ICC's security consultant, would visit Karachi during the PSL final to look at the security arrangements for the series.

"Reg DIckason and his men will be here during the PSL final and we have contracted them to oversee the West Indies games as well," Sethi said. "Their expert will stay back for seven days and conduct the security for West Indies series. This is part of our agreement with the West Indies board. This will be a one-off series, since, as I told you before, it will be a loss-making enterprise.

The idea wasn't to make money; it was to bring crick-

et back, so this is a step in that direction.

"We have a separate agreement with the West Indies in which we are exploring a tri-lateral series including Pakistan, West Indies and one other country, which will be played in the USA over next five years. The details about the venues, dates, financial model will be discussed later but in principle it has decided that three countries will play in the USA." Sethi had last year announced a five-year plan that involved the West Indies touring Pakistan every year until 2022, but in January walked back on that claim due to the costs involved. (Cricinfo)

Serena to play Venus in Indian Wells third round

S

erena Williams will play her sister Venus in the third round at Indian Wells as she continues her comeback after the birth of her child.

The 36-year-old American, who was out for 14 months, beat Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands 7-6 (7-5) 7-5 in round two.

“Everything is a bonus,” said Serena after winning in one hour, 52 minutes on her second match point.

The sisters last met in the 2017 Australian Open final, when Serena won her 23rd Grand Slam singles title.

“I would prefer to play someone else, anybody else, literally anybody else, but it has to happen now. So it is what it is,” said Serena.

Serena was already pregnant with daughter Alexis Olympia, who was born on 1 September, when she beat Venus 6-4 6-4 in Melbourne.

Venus beat Sorona Cirstea of Romania in her secondround match 6-3 6-4.

They will play their 29th competitive match on Monday, with Serena having won 17 of the previous 28.

Arsenal beat Watford for first clean sheet in 12 league matches

A

rsenal eased their way past Watford 3-0 in the Premier League on Sunday, marking their first clean sheet in 12 league matches and settling nerves at the Emirates after a string of losses in 2018.

The win leaves Arsenal 10 points off Champions League qualification in sixth place in the standings, while Watford stay in 10th.

“It was a convincing win.

It gets us out of that negative spiral that we were in,” Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger told reporters.

Prior to their midweek 2-0 away win over AC Milan in the Europa League, the Gunners had lost four games in a row in all competitions, including back-to-back 3-0 drubbings by runaway Premier League leaders Manchester City.

“In one week we got from hell to heaven,” Wenger said.

Arsenal’s German defender Shkodran Mustafi opened the scoring in the eighth minute, heading home from a Mesut

Shkodran Mustafi’s goal was his third of the season, but his first in 15 matches

Ozil free kick for his third goal of the season and the home side’s 1,000th of the Premier League era.

Watford pressed Arsenal back into their own area as the first half came to a close, but they were unable to equalise.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang doubled the lead just short of the hour mark, running onto a pass from former Borussia Dortmund team mate Henrikh Mkhitaryan and rounding the keeper to slot the ball home.

A minute later Watford won a penalty when Ainsley Maitland-Niles was deemed to have brought down Roberto Pereyra in the area.

But Petr Cech got his fingertips to Troy Deeney’s spot kick, nudging the ball onto the post and back out, to roars of approval from the home crowd. The save helped the Czech stopper achieve his 200th clean sheet in the Premier League.

Aubameyang then turned assistant for Mkhitaryan in the 77th minute, passing the ball across the front of the goal for the Armenian to smash the ball home from close range.

“I’m disappointed because I can’t believe today we don’t score a goal. We conceded an early goal and then everything changed,” Watford manager Javi Gracia said at a post-match news conference.

“In the second half we created more chances, but after their second goal it was very difficult for us.” (Reuters)

19

“She looked like she never lost a step,” Venus said of her younger sister. “Great way to come back.”

Defending champion Elena Vesnina of Russia also moved into the third round after she beat American Catherine Bellis 2-6 6-1 6-1.

Danish second seed Caroline Wozniacki beat Spaniard Lara Arruabarrena 6-4 6-1, while Ukrainian fourth seed Elina Svitolina defeated German Mona Barthel 6-4 6-3.

Federer must wait In the men’s competition, world number one and top seed Roger Federertook the first set against Argentina’s Federico Delbonis 6-3.

The Swiss has never beaten Delbonis - though they have only met once on the tour - and the pair were level at 2-2 in the second set when play was suspended for the day because of rain. They will resume their match on Sunday, when British number one Kyle Edmund faces the experienced Israeli Dudi Sela in his opening singles match.

Elsewhere, third seed Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria lost 7-6 (7-4) 4-6 6-3 to Spain’s Fernando Verdasco, but Austrian fifth seed Dominic Thiem beat Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece 6-2 3-6 6-3. (BBC) Serena Williams will take on her sister Venus in a competitive match for the 29th time

Norman breaks world indoor 400m record

A

merican Michael Norman broke the world indoor 400m record in only his third race in the event.

The 20-year-old is the Under-20 world 200m champion and clocked 44.52 seconds at the US collegiate indoor championships in Texas.

Norman eased through the first lap in 21.33 seconds on his way to the record.

His time took 0.05 seconds off the previous mark set in 2005 by compatriot Kerron Clement, who won gold in the 400m hurdles at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

monDAY, march 12, 2018

Brutal Devine leads NZ women to Windies whitewash SCOREBOARD New Zealand Women Innings (50 overs maximum) S Bates (c) b Connell 89 L Down run out (Kyshona Knight/Connell) 3 A Satterthwaite run out (Peters) 69 K Martin † b Dottin 24 S Devine not out 73 M Green b Dottin 3 A Peterson not out 27 Extras (b 6, lb 2, nb 3, w 11) 22 Total (5 wickets; 50 Overs) 310 Did not bat: L Kasperek, K Broadmore, HMRowe, H Huddleston Fall of wickets: 1-16 (Down, 4.5 ov), 2-167 (Satterthwaite, 30.2 ov), 3-173 (Bates, 32.1 ov), 4-231 (Martin, 40.6 ov), 5-247 (Green, 42.5 ov) Bowling: Connell 10-0-63-1, Dottin 10-0-58-2, Matthews 5-0-19-0, Mohammed 10-0-56-0, Fletcher 6-050-0, Taylor 4-0-31-0, Peters 5-0-25-0 West Indies Women Innings (target: 311 runs from 50 overs)

H Matthews c †Martin b Huddleston 11 Kycia Knight run out (Broadmore/Peterson) 0 S Taylor (c) c Peterson b Huddleston 26 D Dottin c Peterson b Kasperek 15 Kyshona Knight c Peterson b Rowe 12 M Aguilleira † c †Martin b Rowe 5 B Cooper lbw b Devine 17 A Fletcher b Broadmore 3 A Peters c & b Devine 2 A Mohammed not out 4 S Connellc †Martin b Devine 7 Extras (lb 1, w 2) 3 Total (all out; 34.5 Overs) 105 Fall of wickets: 1-8 (Kycia Knight, 2.5 ov), 2-21 (Matthews, 6.3 ov), 3-42 (Taylor, 10.2 ov), 4-65 (Dottin, 17.2 ov), 5-68 (Kyshona Knight, 18.4 ov), 6-79 (Aguilleira, 22.6 ov), 7-86 ( Fletcher, 27.2 ov), 8-94 (Cooper, 30.1 ov), 9-95 (Peters, 32.3 ov), 10-105 (Connell, 34.5 ov) Bowling: Peterson 3-011-0, Rowe 8-1-31-2, Huddleston 7-0-19-2, Devine 5.5-0-24-3, Kasperek 7-112-1, Broadmore 4-1-7-1

T

he Windies Women suffered a demoralizing end to the three-match ODI series against New Zealand as Sophie Devine’s solid allround showing led the hosts to a 205-run victory to end the series 3-0 in Christchurch.

Sent in to bat Devine’s 73 unbeaten added to the early foundation set by captain Suzie Bates’ 89 as the Kiwis piled up 310 for 5 in their turn at the crease.

In response, Windies captain Stafanie Taylor was the highest scorer with 26 as the regional team was bundled out for 105.

With the ball, Devine then claimed 3 for 24.

The Windies did manage an early breakthrough when opener Lauren Down was dismissed in the fifth over. Amy Satterthwaite then joined Bates at the crease and began to build

a solid partnership with B a t e s .

The duo went on to set the White Ferns second wicket record before Satterthwaite departed for 69 off 81 deliveries to leave N e w Zealand at 167-1.

Devine, who had opened in the first two matches, came in at No. 5, and was aggressive from the outset.

She put together strong partnerships with Katey Martin and Anna Peterson to push the Ferns past 300 for the first time this series.

The Windies were in trouble early on after Kycia Knight was run out in the third over. Hayley Matthews followed soon after to leave the West Indies at 21 for 2 and when

Taylor became the second wicket for seamer Holly Huddleston not too long after there was no recovery. (Sportsmax)

Sophie Devine makes room to slap one away (Getty Images)

De Villiers and Rabada tighten South Africa’s grip A ustralia face an uphill battle in Port Elizabeth after the brilliance of AB de Villiers (126*) and Kagiso Rabada (3/38) seized the advantage for South Africa.

Day three began with the match evenly poised but de Villiers’ first Test c e n t u ry since January 2 0 1 5 helped the Proteas to 382, a first-innings lead of 139, before South Africa’s attack left Australia 180/5.

Rabada was inspired once again with the ball, adding to his five-for in the first innings with the wickets of David Warner – who was bowled by a pearler – Shaun Marsh and, just before stumps, the crucial wicket of Usman Khawaja, who had battled hard for his 75.

With Cameron Bancroft – who was bowled by Lungi Ngidi after his defensive stroke trickled back off his foot and onto his stumps – and Steve Smith, who edged behind off Keshav Maharaj for 11, also back in the hutch, Australia’s hopes rest on Mitchell Marsh (39*) and the lower order extending their lead well beyond the 41 runs that it currently stands.

The day had started with a magnificent innings from de Villiers that will be remembered as one of the very best, if not the best, of his Test career. On a pitch that

has proved challenging for batsmen from ball one, he seemingly scored at will, manipulating the ball into the gaps with ease and hitting 20 fours and one six. The 34-year-old opted to take a break from Test cricket in 2016 and upon his return to the side for last

December’s one-off Test match against Zimbabwe he explained that he had needed to “freshen up and feel that hunger again”. On this evidence, de Villiers’ appetite is now stronger than it’s ever been.

After reaching 74 not out at stumps the previous evening, he started sedately before moving through the gears with two boundaries in Josh Hazlewood’s fourth over of the day; the first delightfully flicked through midon and

t h e second deftly guided to the third-man boundary.

The next ball he faced, from Pat Cummins, also raced to the boundary as de Villiers swatted a pull stroke for four off the front foot. Cummins got the first breakthrough of the morning when Vernon Philander, who hit a useful 36, could only fend a short ball to short-leg where Bancroft took a smart catch, but de Villiers was raising his bat two deliveries later after expertly ramping the same bowler over the slip cordon to bring up his century in 116 balls.

He continued to find good support from the lower order, Maharaj hitting an entertaining 30 from 24 balls, including two sixes off Nathan Lyon – the first of which was very nearly snaffled by Khawaja on the AB de Villiers scored his 22nd Test century (AFP)

David Warner was bowled through the gate (Getty Images)

boundary, replays showing the fielder just stepped over the rope while lobbing the ball back into play – and three consecutive boundaries off Mitchell Starc as the Proteas added vital runs to their lead.

Clearly enjoying himself, Maharaj’s aggression eventually got the better of him as he played a wild slog across the line and Hazlewood rearranged his woodwork but the 58 runs he added for the ninth wicket with de Villiers could well prove crucial in the final outcome of this match. A superb piece of fielding by Smith at deep cover brought the innings to a close, with the Australian captain’s direct hit finding Ngidi short of his ground but from teetering at 183/6 de Villiers had entirely shifted the momentum of the match. (ICC)

SCOREBOARD Australia 1st innings 243 South Africa 1st innings (Overnight 263-7) D Elgar c †Paine b Hazlewood 57 A Markram lbw b Cummins 11 K Rabada b Cummins 29 H Amla b Starc 56 AB de Villiers not out 126 F du Plessis (c) lbw b Marsh 9 T de Bruyn lbw b Marsh 1 Q de Kock † b Lyon 9 VD Philander c Bancroft b Cummins 36 K Maharaj b Hazlewood 30 L Ngidi run out (Smith) 5 Extras (b 9, lb 2, w 2) 13 Total (all out;118.4 Overs) 382 Fall of wickets: 1-22 (Markram, 7.4 ov), 2-67 (Rabada, 20.2 ov), 3-155 (Amla, 66.4 ov), 4-155 ( Elgar, 67.6 ov), 5-179 (F du Plessis, 75.3 ov), 6-183 (T de Bruyn, 77.4 ov), 7-227 (Q de Kock, 85.3 ov), 8-311 (Philander, 108.3 ov), 9-369 (Maharaj, 115.4 ov), 10-382 (Ngidi, 118.4 ov)

Bowling: Starc 33.4-5110-1, Hazlewood 30-5-98-2, Cummins 24-6-79-3 , Lyon 22-558-1, Marsh 9-1-26-2 Australia 2nd Innings C Bancroft b Ngidi 24 D Warner b Rabada 13 U Khawaja lbw b Rabada 75 S Smith (c) c †de Kock b Maharaj 11 S Marsh c †de Kock b Rabada 1 M Marsh not out 39 TD Paine † not out 5 Extras (lb 10, w 2) 12 Total (5 wickets; 63 Overs) 180 Yet to bat: P Cummins, M Starc, N Lyon, J Hazlewood Fall of wickets: 1-27 ( Warner, 9.2 ov), 2-62 (Bancroft, 21.3 ov), 3-77 (Smith, 26.4 ov), 4-86 (Marsh, 29.2 ov), 5-173 ( Khawaja, 61.1 ov) Bowling: Philander 14-5-380, Rabada 16-7-38-3, Maharaj 20-2-70-1, Ngidi 10-421-1, Markram 3-1-3-0

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21

Alonzo Ambrose

A

lonzo Ambrose in a time of two hours, eleven minutes and five seconds (2:06:54) won the first stage of the 21st Cheddi Jagan Memorial cycle road race but failed to meet Shaquel Agard two hours, six minutes and fifty-four seconds (2:06:54) record set last year.

Ambrose who placed second last year approached the finish line with Jamal John and proved he is by far the better as both men got off their seats in an effort to claim bragging rights to the first stage of the annual event on Sunday.

Third place went to Andre ‘Padlock’ Green ahead of Paul De Nobrega who also claimed fourth last year.

The fifth and sixth places

went to Andrew Hicks and Christopher Griffith respectively.

Ambrose was part of a group of seven riders who broke away when the riders were sent off from outside Freedom House at Main and Charlotte Streets in New Amsterdam. It was Hicks who made the bold move and started the attack after the riders had completed 5 miles of the race.

In the veteran category, Junior Niles continues to dominate finishing well ahead of Ian Jackson and Jackaran Sookhai in that order.

Jamal John took three of the eight sprint point prizes up for grabs, Griffith two and one each to Niles and Hicks.

Niles in all twenty-one editions of the race, told the Guyana times that he was disappointed that as a veteran he was not allowed to go the full distance and provide more competition and also challenge for one of the top prizes.

“I hope next year the organisers will allow the veterans to go the full distance and make the race more competitive.”

Meanwhile, in the junior category, Briton John rode in ahead of Ajay Gopilall and Adrntie Hodge.

In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Times Sport John said his coach had been disappointed with his performance so far this year. He further explained he has not been given a training programme from his coach but had just been trying to cover distance as he prepared for the first leg of the race.

“When the race start I just had to do what I came to do. I tried to stay with the main bunch to catch the first break. I know if I catch the first break it would be easy to win my category but I did not get to go on the first break but I catch the second break and that was it,” the upcoming cyclist of United Cycling Club.

For the females, Shrnika

Junior champion Briton John collects his trophy from PPP Member Dr Bheri Ramsarran

Teixeira was first and fellow Berbician Whitney Poyer second.

Seventy-year-old Montgomery Paris was the oldest rider to complete the event winning the over-60 category.

The event was organised by the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) in remembrance of the late party leader Cheddi Jagan and rode off from outside of the party’s New Amsterdam office at main and Charlotte Streets and proceeded to the Number 51 Police Station on the Corentyne before heading to Port Mourant for the finish.

Veterans rode from the starting point to Adventure and returned to Port Mourant for the finish while females rode from New Amsterdam to Port Mourant.

Following the completion of the first leg, cyclists will head over to the West Bank of Demerara on March 18 where the second leg of the race will be held. They are expected to pedal off from the Demerara Harbour Bridge (West Bank) at 08:30hrs and proceed to Bushy Park, East Bank Essequibo, before finishing at the point of origin.

(Andrew Carmichael)

Kares Fitness Challenge

Beastly Mahadeo powers to 3rd title – Adonis edges Duke to female crown

D

ifferent day but same script for Dillon Mahadeo as he produced yet another Wildebeest performance to win the 4th Kares Engineering Fitness Challenge title for a third consecutive time at the National Park tarmac on Sunday.

Mahadeo won all five of the events quite emphatically bringing to life the sizable crowd in attendance. Following in second was fellow Cross Fit 592 member Timothy McAndrew and the improving Junior Cordet

of the Guyana Defence Force in third.

The female category was where the upset of the day occurred as Delice Adonis turned the tide of former champion Semonica Duke to win the title. Adonis had finished runner up in 2017 but stood tall when her competitors fell. It was the gruelling final event which contained rows, rope pull up and pushes that the 20 year-old kept her composure to win since it was understood to be a five-point split between her and Duke who

is also from Cross Fit 592.Third place was occupied by Tamecia Archer of Genesis Fitness Gym. The celebrity Fitness Challenge which is sponsored by Scotiabank was won by Macalea Cameron also known as The Remix Chic, Chief Executive of Pulse Entertainment Robbie Singh. Scotiabank will be making what is understood to be a huge financial contribution to the Giving Hope Foundation and Help and Shelter. A detailed report of the day’s proceeding will be published in Tuesday’s edition.

Dillon Mahadeo and Delice Adonis with some of the prizes they carted off on Sunday at the National Park

Milo Schools Football

Pure Masters boot Christianburg on penalties

P

– Chase in action today against Ann’s Gove

ure Masters delivered the biggest upset to date by booting Linden’s Christianburg Secondary when the round-of-sixteen matches continued on Sunday at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue.

The scores ended 1-1 at regulation time after Omar Brewley opened the scores in the 41st but Ravon Bailey found the equalizer in the 69th. The private institution then won 4-3 on

penalty kicks.

Buxton Youth Developers trounced Vergenogen 6-1 led by the dynamic Shamar Scott with goals in the 4th, 54th, 74th and 83rd while additional goals came from Shamar Singh (41st) and Teshawn Gordon (87th); Chris Smith (35th) scored for the West Demerara unit.

2017 runners-up Morgan’s Learning Centre disposed of St Roses High 7-0.

Darien Dickenson (8th, 11th), Ryan Dowding (72nd), Koby Durant (16th), Nixon Richardson (43rd), Malcom Miggins (89th) and Kellon Blue (67th) all made their marks in the route.

Today, former champions Lodge Secondary play The Business School from 17:00h where after three-time defending champions Chase Academic Foundation clash with Ann’s Grove Secondary.

The quarter-finals will be held March in 17 and 18 while the semifinals are on March 25 and the grand final on March 28.

Played under the theme “there is no excuse for violence” due to the tournaments partnership with the Ministry of Public Health, the under-18 boys will be hoping to secure the first place prize of $500,000 which goes towards a school project.

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

monDAY, march 12, 2018

“I am more than 100% confident he will perform”

…David Paul optimistic of son’s future

en First-Class ton- made against Jamaica.

The impressive figures are not the only attribute which gives the 56 year-old optimism his son can perform but rather his understanding of the sport and the effort to be fully competitive.

By Akeem Greene

T

he rapid progression of genuine all-rounder Keemo Paul from youth to senior cricket would be a fairy-tale for some to believe but for father David Paul, his son’s catapult to the top by earning a spot on the Windies squad for the on-going 2019 World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe was inevitable.

After one full season of regional cricket, the 20-year old was called up as replacement to Sheldon Cottrell who suffered a hamstring injury.

“I expected things could happen from the performance in the four-day but it still came somewhat as a surprise. After the squad was picked for Zimbabwe I said well he missed out until later in the year or next

Keemo is flanked by father David Paul (right) and long-time supporter Safraz Sheriffudeen at a recent Guyana Cricket Board function

year but It came earlier and emotions certainly ran high”, the elated father expressed to Guyana Times Sport on Saturday from Port Kaituma.

The right-arm seamer

has 85 wickets across FirstClass and List A cricket, with a bowling average of 17.35 and 21.00 in the two formats respectively. With the bat he has a belligerent top-score of 107 – his maid-

Corona Futsal Tournament

Sparta, Bent Street among top teams to qualify for round-of-16

T

he group stages of the riveting Corona Futsal tournament have concluded and some of the top sides have made the cut to the round-of-sixteen segment which commences on Thursday at the National Gymnasium.

Sparta Boss, Bent Street, Alpha Warriors, California Square, Showstoppers, Tiger Bay, Mocha, Future Stars, Xtreme Campbellville, West

Front Road, Albouystown, Sophia, California Square, Back Circle, Leopold Street and Alexander Village.

The tournament which is collaboration with NAMILCO Wheat Gem and Hero Motorcycle will see the top placed group finishers receive $40,000 for first place, $30,000, $20,000 and $10,000 will be awarded to second to fourth-place.

Attention will now turn

P

W

D

L

to who can win the top prize purse of $600,000 and the championship trophy.

Second to fourth will take home $300,000, $150,000 and $75,000 along with the corresponding accolades Two Hero motor cycles will be awarded to the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and the other to a lucky spectator at the finals on Easter Saturday (March 31).

GF

GA

GD

POINTS

Group A Alpha Warriors

3

2

1

15

6

9

7

1Q

Show Stoppers

3

2

1

20

16

4

7

2Q

Tucville

3

1

2

9

15

-6

3

Kingstown

3

3

12

19

-7

0

18

10

8

7

1Q

1

15

6

9

6

2Q

1

12

15

-3

4

3Q

3

8

22

-14

0

17

6

11

9

1Q

“ I am confident in his ability. I am always confident in his ability since he started playing at age 11; he always performs at every level. His debut is always good; if it’s not with the bat it is with the ball so even to when he made the senior team I always felt he would do well”.

He added, “His greatest ability is he doesn’t take his opponents on names, he sees them as someone he can compete against and I am more than 100% he will perform for Windies if given the opportunity”.

Keemo has ticked most boxes a regional cricketer can aspire; deputising a victorious under-19 World Cup team, aided heavily in a helmet-tick of four-day titles for Guyana Jaguars, played in the Caribbean Premier League and made the Windies ‘A’ Team.

However, the glory that unfolds now is far from difficulties in the elementary stages of his career. Born in

a Man-of-the-Match performance, scoring a crucial half-century and taking three wickets, to steer Windies ‘A’ to a 26-run victory over the England Lions on Friday night in Antigua.

According to him, the ‘A’ team experience is quite nurturing; “the A team has helped me since there were players with in-

Saxacalli, located on the West Bank of the Essequibo River some 25 miles south of Parika, David who is Carpenter by trade revealed it was tough for him and wife Rita but they were never willing to ‘throw in the towel’.

“We are proud of him because it is a great feat to know where he came from.

It was real rough. It was not any easy road as a lot of sacrifices and dedication were made but we thank God for where he is now”.

The father further extended gratitude for the overwhelming support of Safraz Sheriffudeen and his family at V-Net Communications as the group have even made Keemo their brand ambassador.

Ready to perform

Keemo ascension

celebrated his by producing

From winning the ICC Youth World Cup in 2016, Paul now has a great chance of playing at the 2019 World Cup for the senior Windies team

ternational experience who guided me along with the coaches which made things easier for me to understand and adapt quickly”.

While there is much at stake for the Windies at the qualifiers, the youngster expressed he feels no way pressured to perform and just wants to do well when the chance arises.

“I don’t pressure myself I just stick to the basics.

Whatever the team needs of me that is what I’m willing to do. It’s just about backing your ability and executing.

I have been waiting for this opportunity so I just want grab it with both hands and make an impact”.

Hussain continues path to LGC Club title

Group B Tiger Bay

3

2

Sparta Boss

3

2

Mocha

3

1

Plaisance

3

1 1

Group C Future Stars

3

3

Old School Ballers

3

2

1

13

8

5

6

2Q

Xtreme Campbellville

3

1

2

13

14

-1

3

3Q

New Market Street

3

3

6

21

-15

0

16

4

12

9

1Q

Group D West Front Road

3

3

Albouystown

3

1

1

1

6

6

0

4

2Q

Sophia

3

1

1

1

7

9

-2

4

3Q

YMCA

3

3

6

16

-10

0

Group E Bent Street

3

3

California Square

3

2

North East

3

1

Channel 9

3

25

4

21

9

1Q

1

14

13

1

6

2Q

2

12

15

-3

3

3

4

23

-19

0

Group F Back Circle

3

2

1

16

11

5

7

1Q

Leopold Street

3

1

2

11

10

1

5

2Q

Alexander Village

3

1

1

1

12

8

4

4

3Q

Broad Street

3

3

5

15

-10

0

The winners pose with their winner’s vouchers and Captain Deo. From left: Chatterpaul Deo, Maurice Solomon, Aleem Hussain and Rabindranath Persaud

L

usignan Golf Club (LGC) President Aleem Hussain maintained his firm grip on the competition while club Secretary Rabindranath Persaud finished third as the quest for the club title continues.

Hussain finished with 65/13 while 2nd place went to veteran golfer and winner of the Sanjay’s tournament in February, Maurice Solomon with scores 70/23. Nearest to The Pin (5 feet) went to Rabindranath ‘Pandit Ravi’ Persaud with Hussain winning Best Gross (78) and Best

Net going to 3rd place Ravi’ with Persaud 72/18.

Hussain in his remarks said, “The Executive has promised to champion the Club Tournaments, and so far we are doing fairly well”. Meanwhile, other golfers who placed in the top ten (10) Net performances were: Brian Hackett 73/16; Shanella Webster 74/16; Patrick Prashad 75/9; Haresh Tiwari 75/18; Hilbert Shields 77/16; Robert Hanoman 77/25; Mike Mangal 78/8 and Dr. Philbert London 79/18.

monDAY, march 12, 2018

Demerara emerge as U-17 champions

23 Persaud rates Intermediate Clinic a success guyanatimesgy.com

From left to right: GCB’s Chairman of Competitions Committee, Colin Europe and Captain of the Demerara U-17 team, Sachin Singh with the team and other officials

D

emerara emerged champions of the 2018 Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) /Under 17 Inter-County Tournament after disposing of the National Select Under -15 by a massive 9 wicket deficit in the third and final round of the competition on Sunday.

This victory gave Demerara a clean sweep of the tournament, having previously defeated Essequibo and Berbice.

Playing at Bourda, the National Select Under-15 won the toss and decided to bat first posting a paltry 114 all out in 46.5 overs with; Safie Shazad, Mavendra Dindyal and Ajay Gainda were the only scorers with 20, 17 and 14 respectively.

Bowling for Demerara, Nyron Bissu snared 3 for 9 to gain his third Man of The Match award, in as many matches. He was well sup-

ported by Andre Seepersaud and Andrew Samaroo picked up 2 wickets each.

Demerara then set out to surpass the Select Under-15 total to lift this year’s GCB Under-17 Inter county title, with Sachin Singh stroking an elegant 56.

Yeudisteer Persaud and Navindar Persaud contributed with 14 and 27 respectively with only wicket taker for the National Select Under-15 being Romel Datterdeen with 1 for 15.

At Everest, Berbice batted first and scored 227 for 6 off their allotted 50 overs. The consistent Seon Glasgow was the top scorer with 59, which included five fours and one six off the innings.

Support was also gained from Nigel Deodat and Jevon Shultz, who also reached half centuries scoring 54 and 58 respectively. In the Essequibo bowling line up,

Sylvan Williams took 2 for 42 and Lance Roberts 2 for 31.

In Reply, Essequibo failed to reach the target as they scraped to 102 all out in 45 overs. Sheldon Charles top scored with 43 while the only other batsmen to reach double figures were Badesh Parsotam and Lallchand Seeram with 10 runs each.

Bowling for Berbice, Jevon Schultz grabbed 3 for 13 while Abdul Ramsammy and Nigel Deodatt claimed 2 wickets a piece. Jevon Schultz was awarded Man of the match for his 54 not out and 3 wickets.

Berbice won by 125 runs.

Man of the match was awarded to Nyron Bissu for his 3 wickets for 9 runs while Most Valuable Player was given to Seon Glasgow for his 190 runs aggregate scoring 110 against Select Under-15, 59 against Essequibo and 21 against Demerara.

Top performers display their awards after the Mayor Holland Swim Meet at the Watooka Pool, Linden

A

sample of talented swimmers was on show yesterday when the Mayor Carwyn Holland Swim Meet was staged at the Torpefo Swim Club at the Watooka Pool, Linden.

The Mining town meet has now completed its second annual year with the event showing promises of getting better.

Turning in top performances were Raphael Harding (boys 8-and-under), Romeno Daw (boys 9-10 yrs) and Jumia Bremner (girls 9-10 yrs).

The 11-12 champions were Devon Spencer and Annalisa Davis, the 1314 female champion was Jasmine Thom while the 1517 champions were Fitzroy

Thom and Nicola Balman and in the Open races Nikita Fiedtkou, Maureen Johnson and Damian Spencer turned in good performances.

Event coordinator Mary Chung Phillips helped showcase some of the future stars of the sport while the trophies and medals were handed out by Linden’s Mayor Carwyn Holland.

Colombian Internationally Certified Coach Fabio Toro stands at left along with his translator, GASA President Ivan Persaud, addressing the coaching contingent on the final day of their Intermediate Level Clinic

T

he Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) wrapped up their first coach’s clinic for 2018 at the National Aquatic Centre on Sunday.

Following the conclusion of the five-day Clinic hosted by Colombian Internationally certified coach, Fabio Toro, President of the Association Ivan Persaud stated that the Intermediate Level Clinic was by far the best they ever had and also highest level.

Persaud told Guyana Times Sport, the level of information that was received

they were very grateful for.

He said the ‘hands-on’ workshop type clinic where the participants could actively be a part of session is exactly what Guyana needs.

It was a historic event since Guyana and Suriname have never collaborated for a clinic. This clinic saw 30 local coaches and seven Surinamese attending. The GASA President believed this clinic was a great programme and a great start to the year with two other clinic’s scheduled for the June/ July and October/November seasons.

Persaud said it was an

honour to work alongside his mentor translating for the contingent, refreshing what he knows and also learning more about the sport.

GASA has made arrangements to attend another higher level course in Surinamese within a few months. However, in the 2019, there will be Officials and Novice certification for persons desirous of getting involved in the sport.

This course was approved by the International Swimming Federation (FINA) who play a major part in GASA’s progression.

monDAY, march 12, 2018

Sports is no longer our game, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our business

guyanatimesgy.com

Kares Fitness Challenge

Beastly Mahadeo powers to 3rd title

Pg 21

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Adonis edges Duke to female crown

Cross Fit 592 Dillon Mahadeo was unstoppable and pushed his body to the max as he won his third consecutive Fitness Challenge title

Delice Adonis (right) pulled her way ahead of former champion Semonica Duke to win the female title (Carl Crooker Photo)

Cheddi Jagan Memorial cycle race

Pg 21

Ambrose takes early lead with 1st leg victory The winners of the various categories pose with organisers

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