Guyanatimes 21 december 2017

$99M living quarters P5 for Judges, Magistrates commissioned in Essequibo Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Thursday, December 21, 2017

Issue No. 3429

Rethink closure of sugar estates – PSC Page 3

…slams Govt on non-existent plans for workers

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

NBS ordered to pay to fired CEO $59M P17

City Hall's garbage woes

Accident at Wallers Delight

Father of 5 killed while going to purchase bread

Page 9

Music Director named Best Cop Page 17

Council to buy 2 garbage trucks in 2018 – Mayor P8

Prisoner P10 charged for threatening to kill President

P7 CH&PA probing another house lot scam

President did not pardon rape accused – Ministry P5 clarifies

…during Police Force awards ceremony This year’s top performing ranks of the Guyana Police Force posed for a photo with the Force’s hierarchy after Wednesday’s award ceremony. At left (inset) is 2017 Best Cop, Superintendent Charmaine Stuart

Overseas-based Choir leader Guyanese killed found guilty of child rape during robbery Page 7

Escape from lock-ups

2 still on the run, 1 back in custody … result of “poor supervision” – Crime Chief

Page 16

…sentenced to life imprisonment

P16

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thursDAY, december 21, 2017 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Rethink closure of sugar estates – PSC

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

…slams Govt on non-existent plans for workers

Thursday, December 21 – 05:00h-06:30h and Friday, December 22 – 05:00h-06:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, December 21 – 05:50h-07:20h and Friday, December 22 – 06:25h-07:55h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Thundery to heavy rain showers can be expected during the day, with thundery showers returning in the evening. Temperatures should range between 24 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North Easterly ranging between 2.68 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 06:07h and 18:18h reaching maximum heights of 2.49 metres and 2.59 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 11:53h reaching a minimum height of 0.74 metre.

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E

ven as former sugar workers continue to cry out against the continued firing of Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) workers, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) slammed the Government for not planning ahead before the closures.

According to the Commission on Wednesday, the closures have not been accompanied with any plan that deals with the welfare of the workers. The PSC reminded that back in August, it had proposed that Government enter into public-private partnerships to invest in and manage selected estates. This would have been an alternative to closing such estates.

“Indeed, it was our clear understanding at a meeting the Commission held with Mr Colvin HeathLondon of NICIL (National Industrial and Commercial Investment Limited), that the Government had determined to pursue such an option.”

According to the PSC, sugar has been the major employer of Guyanese for over a century and, until these drastic measures were taken, continued to be the largest employer of the labour force. “Yet, unbelievably, our Government has no definitive plan to neither rescue the industry nor save its workers from unemployment and from the ensuing hardship which will inevitably result.”

Requesting that the closure be reviewed, the Commission asked that Government recognise the ensuing hardships being placed on the communities that depend on sugar, as well as the consequential damage to the economy as a whole.

No plans

During a press conference last week, President David Granger was put on the spot with questions as to why no plans were put in place for workers before the divestment. In his response, Granger noted that the Government, the unions, and the Corporation itself must be factored in.

“There are four major institutions to be considered.

One is the Corporation itself, which has not been dissolved and it still has responsibility for the industry. The other is the Government and the Ministry of Agriculture is responsible for reporting to Cabinet and the National Assembly. Third, you have the workers and their representatives, particularly GAWU and NAACIE.” “As far as retrenchment or termination benefits are concerned, the Government is responsible for ensuring that the Sugar Corporation fulfils its obligations to the workers.”

However, the President emphasised the work of the unit which is under the Finance Ministry and has

The PSC during its meeting with Finance Minister Winston Jordan prior to Budget 2018

recently engaged an international accounting firm – PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) to value the land it will sell.

“As far as the plan is concerned, there needs to be a lot more work from the fourth agency, what you can call the Special Purpose Unit (SPU), which comes under the Finance Ministry.

That is the agency that will ensure the smooth transition of those parts of the industry which will not remain in production.”

“So, I would say that the work of the SPU is still being done. They are in negotiation not only with the Sugar Corporation but also with foreign investors. And I expect that before too long, we will have a plan which will explain in greater detail how the land will be disposed of.”

GAWU

During a meeting with the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), Heath-London had informed the delegation that following his assessment of the estates identified for closure and sale, he was of the opinion that they were viable.

In doing so, he outlined that when certain costs were excluded from the estates’ overall expenditure,

the overhead of their production were generally in keeping with international norms.

In fact, the SPU Head further singled out the Skeldon Sugar Estate, dubbing it a “gold mine” which is far different from the phrases used by GuySuCo to describe the facility.

It is with that in mind that the Unit has embarked on a series of initiatives aimed at resuming operations at the Estate under

its management from second crop (July) next year, a release from GAWU on the meeting stated.

First on this list is the reinstating of a number of displaced workers, with hopes of commencing such moves early 2018. In the early stages, the SPU would be concentrating on improving the functioning of the factories as well as to rehabilitate the cultivation areas in preparation for the 2018 second crop. On this note, GAWU pointed out that at some estates it was possible to have a 2018 first crop, which the Unit promised to look into.

As such, at the meeting, it was disclosed that the two parties have submitted a budget to the Government to sustain their operations.

In the meantime, however, thousands of sugar workers have been fired and are contemplating a very gloomy Christmas for themselves and their families.

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thursDAY, december 21, 2017

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

No cheer A

s we approach the end of the year, we will first encounter Christmas – typically characterised by cheer and goodwill. Unfortunately, for most Guyanese, there will be very little to cheer about this year.

Being Guyanese, “the show will go on”, but it will be just that – a show that will simply serve to highlight the lives of quiet desperation our people experience on a quotidian basis.

The country’s traditional mainstay for centuries, and indeed the raison d’etre for the existence of the country, has been the sugar industry and the employees in this sector have been hit particularly hard. Last year, 1700 workers at Wales Estate on the West Bank of Demerara, were informed via a report in this newspaper they would be losing their jobs by that Christmas. This Christmas, another 4000 at least, have also been abruptly been terminated. It is very difficult to talk about “cheer”, much less display it, when persons who survive on weekly wages are plunged into destitution.

Those 5700 now jobless workers, would have supported at least an average of four persons: meaning at least 22,800 men, women and children are now destitute, since the economy has been shrinking and there are no significant new employment opportunities.

The businesses in the sugar belt are now on the ropes and many have closed their doors. The revised growth rate of 2.9 per cent for 2017 touted by the Finance Minister in his budget presentation earlier this month, is a mockery to the citizens of Guyana, who know only gold production has increased but most of those revenues end up overseas since the growth generated is dominated by foreignowned mining operations.

The forestry sector, which provided critical employment in the interior regions, has been particularly had hit – with the major player Barama relinquishing its 1.6 million hectare concession in Region One (BarimaWaini) and letting go of 800 workers. While the company has claimed it will continue to manufacture plywood, there is a shortage in the country and prices have shot skywards in the past year. Imported pine plywood has been filling the gap and there needs to be an inquiry on the local production and its impact on employment.

The rice industry, as is its wont, has continued to cultivate its crop but while production has increased marginally, the profit margin has been drastically slashed since the Government conceded without a fight, the lucrative Venezuelan market. Spending by the rice farmers’ families have also been commensurately curtailed, as they tighten their belts in anticipation of a bleak future.

Business as a whole, has consequently been lacklustre even in the weeks before Christmas – when most businesses traditionally racked up more than 20 per cent of their annual revenues. As a consequence, these businesses have cut back radically on the bonuses that were usually awarded to employees at this time and which contributed to the “cheer” and expressions of bonhomie. Even the Christmas parties at these firms have been curtailed because of the downturn.

The Budget presentation in the National Assembly was another source of angst in this Christmas season for the average Guyanese, who despair at the autocratic mode of governance by the APNU/AFC coalition Government exacerbated by their insistence on playing partisan party politics. The budget – the “largest ever” at $267 billion – was bereft of initiatives that would have generated jobs to soak up the growing unemployment and put some money into the pockets of the citizens of Guyana.

The increase of “Old Age pensions” by $500 – while their re-imposed electricity charges of at least 10 times that amount was retained – epitomised the Government’s indifference to its most vulnerable demographic; one that has sacrificed so much for their country. Not much for them to cheer about.

The President, addressing a gathering of Christian church leaders reminded them of the seminal reformation initiated by Martin Luther exactly 500 years ago.

Maybe a local priest should nail a Guyanese “95 Theses” on the gate of the Green House.

Nikolai Vasilyev, 64, dressed as Father Frost, the Russian equivalent of Santa Claus, water-skis along the Yenisei River outside the Siberian city of Krasnoyarsk, Russia. Vasilyev, former teacher of the Siberian State Aerospace University, constructed the water skis out of plastic foam and designed the sticks to propel him forward, while travelling on the water surface. (REUTERS/Ilya Naymushin)

There is no place like M&CC for the holidays Dear Editor, In 1959, Perry Como made popular a song called "There's no place like home for the holidays", that is commonly associated with the Christmas season. In Georgetown in 2017, I think this song should be rewritten and called “There is no place like the City Council for the holidays.”

All year, the Council workers had to live a beggarly life pleading with their landlords, the furniture stores and other creditors as their salaries are always paid very late each month even when Guyana celebrated its Jubilee celebrations last year, but to have to do this at Christmas time is just too much to ask.

But to add salt to an already gaping wound, the finance chairman has sug-

gested that the municipality consider downsizing the number of these very battered staff members, since salaries account for 68 per cent of the Council’s revenue.

He does not suggest that the ‘Fantastic Four’ put a freeze on their frequent travel that is costing the city millions of dollars almost every month; he does not suggest letting go of the contractors that are costing the city tens of millions of dollars each month (and I am not referring to the garbage contractors); he does not suggest that they stop buying sports utility vehicles for the highfalutin at City Hall; he does not suggest that they cut back on expensive retreats, fancy dinners and profligate use of cellphones and the making of

overseas calls and the attachment of bodyguards. He does not mention the guards, gardeners and drivers that are provided by the Council to a former Mayor. Instead he suggests that the poor workers take the fall. How cruel.

To justify his callous approach, he then makes reference to the salaries received by two low-level positions; for example, an Office Assistant and a Clerk 2 General and a mid-level position such as the Accountant but keeps studiously away from mentioning the heads of departments and sections and other top tier positions, many of whom receive hundreds of thousands of dollars each month, but whom he will never fire as they are seen as kith and kin.

Persons have been com-

plaining in the press for two and a half years now about the featherbedding at the Council, where nearly two hundred family members, friends, church pals and paramours have been hired to top flight positions – many recently created and sectional heads made into departmental heads after their sections were inflated into large useless departments, but no one listened and now suddenly the Finance Chairman has an epiphany.

At least the Madam Mayor is not so insensitive and duplicitous, as she knows that downsizing would mean many relatives and friends getting pink slips.

Best regards, Sambu Jacobus

Are we putting new wine into old wine-skins?

Dear Editor, The excitement obvious from the media reports on the graduation of the first batch of cadets from the Civil Service Training College is quite understandable. I join in congratulating the graduates and their tutors and believe all Guyanese will be looking to see what impact such training will have on the day-to-day delivery of services to the public.

Without wishing to throw cold water on the obvious enthusiasm emanating from the graduation, I do not think it is premature to warn about the possibility of negatives resulting from putting ‘bubbling, effervescing, new wine’ (as per the graduates)

into ‘old wine skins’ (as per the heavily bureaucratic, anachronistic systems and reported indifference among established civil servants).

The current civil service with its heavy establishment of civil servants set in their comatose ways cannot be discounted; old attitudes and modus operandi die hard. For the newly trained civil servants who would naturally be expecting a mostly conducive and enabling environment for the application of their newly acquired knowledge and skills, it could be demotivating if not disastrous if they experience too many bottlenecks at the operational levels.

It is for such situations that many organisations realistically initiate their staff trainings from the top and prioritise focus on the current establishment (as opposed to entrants or new-comers); it is a more promising way to obtain ‘buy-in’ across the organisation where the established human resources welcome change and embrace newcomers and new approaches.

Even better still is the spinoff when current managers and supervisors are trained as trainers and assume the responsibility for the effectiveness of the attitudinal, behavioural and systemic changes expected from the training activities.

The ‘cadets’ or ‘trainees’ need mentors to help with the application of their learnings; this will not be forthcoming if the current managerial/supervisory staff are themselves operating in the ‘old ways’ of doing things and are not seized with the need for change among and by themselves.

Simply put: training should start at the top especially when the focus is on attitudes…and it is no secret that the major problems in the civil service are attitudinal for which the top echelons must be trained and held accountable.

Sincerely, Nowrang Persaud

thursDAY, december 21, 2017

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News

$99M living quarters for Judges, Magistrates commissioned in Essequibo

– will to contribute to improved delivery of judicial services

M

inister of State Joseph Harmon on Wednesday commissioned a $99 million, fully furnished modern living quarters facility for Judges and Magistrates at Suddie on the Essequibo Coast, where he said the project is part of Government’s investment towards the improved delivery of judicial services and the administration of justice in the region.

Addressing members of the Judiciary, regional officials and other special invitees present at the opening ceremony, Minister Harmon said the delivery of justice is an issue which the Government takes seriously and the provision of these facilities will ensure that the distance between the court and the living accommodation is reduced so as to allow more time to be spent on dealing with the administration of justice. Previously, the accommodation for Judges and Magistrates were available at Anna Regina while the courts are located at Suddie.

“I believe that is a very important step… The location of these premises in immediate proximity of the

court is commendable as it removes the need of these officials to commute from Anna Regina to this location, thereby saving precious time and money and enable them to discharge their functions with ease.

The transition of accommodation of our judicial officers to close proximity to the place of work and circumstances that are more comfortable should not be underestimated. The discharge of their functions as adjudicators of the law require clear thinking and legal writing that must be facilitated by provision of the best possible living and working environment…,” Minister Harmon was quoted as saying in a statement from the Ministry of the Presidency.

Minister Harmon said accommodations and suitable working conditions are even more important as there are a vast number of women serving in the judicial system, and as such, their welfare must be taken into account. “Even though our female judicial officers are no less competent and efficient than their male counterparts, they are still our gentler side and their

welfare, therefore, require greater care and consideration. I have no doubt that these facilities will bring a greater willingness by the officials who will be accommodated here, to provide quality service in Essequibo and also contribute to higher level of efficiency to discharge their functions,” he said.

“These services include fast and reliable Internet access for proper communication and research that are so essential for such matters as case preparations and judgement and all other support which the Judiciary requires. It is still not good enough that citizens of Bartica have to travel to the Essequibo Coast to receive some judicial services. These services should be provided to our citizens with the least possible inconvenience,” the Minister said.

Further to this, Minister Harmon said that the time is fast approaching when the regional administrations will have to take responsibility of the provision of such facilities so as to ensure that valuable time is not lost.

“I believe that in the manner in which develop-

ment will take place, that the regions and the capital towns will have to take responsibility for providing these services and therefore it really ought not to be on the Chancellor and the Chief Justice to come here to find accommodation for Judges.

It is the Administration that has to do that. A Judge must judge and therefore to attach all of these administrative functions on to the Judges is basically taking away important judicial time,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Chancellor of the Judiciary (acting), Madame Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, OR, CCH, in here remarks said that the project, which began under the auspices of Justice Carl Singh, former Chancellor of the Judiciary, will assist greatly in the provision of judicial services on the Essequibo Coast. After years of tedious searching for housing and accommodation for Judges and Magistrates, she noted that it is a historic day to see the project come to fruition.

“As I recall it, in the 70s to the 80s just across where the old Suddie High Court was, were quarters for Judges

and Magistrates were given places all around. That building was old and dilapidated and as a result, quarters had to be found again for staff here. Then after that, accommodations were found for Judges in Onderneeming and that compound housed the Judge, the Prosecutor, the clerk and the Court Marshal. We would commute from there to court and then eventually we moved from Onderneeming and went to Anna Regina but the meantime the Magistrates were itinerant because they were in Zorg and then they were at Johanna Cecelia and they were other places. Some Magistrates stayed with relatives; some were lucky to have Government buildings at their disposal,” she explained.

With the project coming to fruition, Justice Cummings-Edwards said there is now accommodation in a central location for Magistrates, Judges, commissioners of titles and even their guests while dispensing justice in Essequibo.

“The commute will not be anymore, because Judges will just have to walk across to the courtroom which is

just next door. And in that regard, we know that more will be given to you here is Essequibo in terms of the dispensation of justice. We know that Judges and judicial officers work very hard and they have to leave their homes and come here and that is not a complaint.

They do not complain but they come willingly and it is only fitting that we make this location where they will be, as comfortable as possible. Having left their family, their pets and their comforts, they should come as close as possible to what they would have left at home even as they serve you,” she said.

The project commenced on November 21, 2016 and was scheduled to be completed in eleven months.

However it was completed in the period nine months within the allocated budget. The facility boasts four apartment units, which contain two rooms each. The rooms are outfitted with all amenities including flat screen televisions, microwaves, furniture and hot and cold showers.

verifiable. It said the newspaper, instead of seeking verification, chose to report the comments of unnamed ‘residents of his village’ as fact in this regard. A simple perusal of the list of those pardoned showed clearly that there was no “Raymond Gouveia, called “Ryan”” or any one for that matter, with a sexual assault offence.

The Ministry of the Presidency, in the strongest possible terms, condemned the article as a wicked falsification.

“While the Government stands resolutely in the protection of freedom of speech and press freedom in Guyana, it condemns, in the strongest possible way, any impeachments, it does not believe that the publishing of untruths, propaganda and misleading information could be considered a joke.

It is a serious and undeniable act designed to mislead, create panic and resentment among the citizens towards the Government of the day,” the Ministry of the Presidency stated.

However, it was the now-jailed man who spoke with Guyana Times Berbice Correspondent back in 2015 (Sunday, October 18, 2015), who said he was released in May 2015. “I did get twoand-a-half years and I come out May 23.”

The statements were made in the presence of his

mother at their West Berbice home. The man said he could not exactly say if it was the President who cut short his sentence but claimed that he was later told that he was pardoned. More convincing was his mother who, in an effort to distance her son from wrongdoings (rape), said she had made efforts to get the President’s attention to give him a chance since he was young and was not fully responsible for the incident which led to him being imprisoned.

Back in September 2015 when this newspaper broke the story of the 48-year-old woman being raped, allegedly by someone who was pardoned by the President, officials were very tight-lipped, claiming that the verifying information was not avail-

able.

We were however forced to publish the article, “…

When Guyana Times contacted the Police authorities in Berbice, they were tightlipped about the matter involving Gouveia. B Division (Berbice) Commander Errol Watts explained that the Police are investigating the matter and have already arrested the young man at the centre of the incident.

He declined to speculate or confirm whether Gouveia was indeed one of the persons recently pardoned by President Granger. “I cannot speculate. I do not have that information at hand. I am unable to say whether he was pardoned from looking at his file. You will have to call the Head of the Guyana Prison Service, Mr Trotz be-

cause the President released the names to them and not the Police,” the Commander said.

Trotz, speaking with Guyana Times via tele-

phone, said he could not confirm nor deny that the young man’s name was on the list because he did not have the requisite information at hand…”

President did not pardon rape accused – Ministry clarifies

T

he Ministry of the Presidency has dismissed an article which appeared in this newspaper on Sunday, December 17, 2017 under the caption: “Man pardoned by President jailed on rape charge.”

According to the Ministry of the Presidency on Wednesday, the misleading article stated, “An ex-convict, who was pardoned by President David Granger two years ago, has been jailed again, this time for raping a 48-year-old woman”. The offender was identified in the article as Raymond Gouveia, called “Ryan”, 22, of West Coast Berbice.

The Ministry made it clear that the President did not pardon anyone by the name of “Raymond Gouveia, called “Ryan”, in 2015. The newspaper also stated, “In 2015, Gouveia was sentenced for sexually assaulting a young lady, who also lived on the West Coast of Berbice.”

The Ministry takes this time to explicitly state that the Head of State has only pardoned non-violent offenders and non-cocaine offenders.

The Ministry of the Presidency said the lists of people pardoned by the President, the majority of whom were women, were all made public and the contents therein were easily

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thursDAY, december 21, 2017

Page

By Cortney S Warren, PhD

You may not think of touch as a human need. But it is

W

e actually need physical touch for healthy emotional and physical development. And it is especially important to hug during the holiday season. Why? Because for most of us, the holidays are stressful.

In a recent study of 786 adults published by the American Psychological Association, over 60 per cent reported feeling fatigue and stress often or sometimes during the holiday season (APA, 2016).

Holiday stress comes from many sources. Family dynamics can be challenging, bringing to light unresolved family conflicts and complications.

Exposure to and consumption of more unhealthy food and drinks can be difficult to balance. We often feel financial strain from unusually high spending. And, we miss loved ones who are no longer a part of our daily life, including our ex’s, former friends, and those who have died.

In fact, research suggests that we are more likely to die around Christmas and New Year’s than on any other days of the year. For example, a seminal study investigating over 57 million US death certificates from 1979-2004 found that there are more dead-on-arrival emergency room fatalities from natural causes on December 25, 26 and January 1 than on any oth-

guyanatimesgy.com

Foundation

er days of the year (Phillips, Barker, & Brewer, 2010). Although the reason for this spike continues to be investigated, it is likely that stress is a contributing factor.

Why is physical touch so important to reducing holiday stress?

Emerging neurobiological research suggests that physical touch releases oxytocin in the body. Oxytocin is a powerful hormone that acts as a neu-

rotransmitter and has anti-stress effects on the body, such as reducing blood pressure and cortisol levels.

Although oxytocin can be released by various stimulants, touch is one of the easiest ways to release it. During his TED talk, Dr Paul Zak argues that people who get at least eight hugs a day report feeling more connected to others and happier than those without such contact. Increasing oxytocin levels and decreasing cortisol levels – which can

be achieved by hugs and touch – can help with holiday stress.

Furthermore, a lack of touch can actually psychologically and biologically harm you. Research conducted primarily out of Romanian orphanages, pioneered in the 1940s by Rene Spitz, shows that children who were not touched (held, caressed, rocked) – even if they had basic food, water, and shelter –experienced horrible developmental problems over time. For example, many of these orphaned children experienced severe self-soothing behaviour (rocking), attachment disorders and issues with trust, cognitive delays, stunted growth, immune issues, and even death. All due to touch deprivation.

Finally, physical touch helps us feel socially bonded and connected to others.

A large body of research suggests that social support is a very powerful protective factor against negative emotional and physical illness.

For example, a large-scale review of 81 studies found that social support has positive associations with cardiovascular, endocrine, and immune system functioning.

The Naked Truth is This: Touch is a human need. During the holidays, when we often encounter additional stress, make an extra effort to give and receive healthy touch. Give your neighbour or friend a hug. Get a massage.

Cuddle your pet. Anything to get 8-12 hugs a day. (psychologytoday.com)

By Vinita Mehta ,PhD, EdM

F

amily estrangements are painful and alienating for those involved, and the holidays can be a particularly difficult time for those who are not in contact with family members. Yesterday, we looked at the first four components of family estrangements. Below are the others.

Positive/Negative Effect

Adult children also had to manage the valence of their emotion – that is, in this case, whether the feelings they had for their parent were good or bad. The majority of participants did not feel positively about their parent. But sometimes the emotional void was replaced with negative emotion. As one person said, “In some cases that absence can be replaced by negative feeling, negative sentiment. Sometimes hatred. Definitely.” Adult children felt that inflating their negative feelings was necessary because it helped to achieve and maintain distance from their parent.

Reconciliation and the desire to be a family

Participants differed as to whether they wanted to include their parent to be a part of their families. While some participants wanted to reconnect, others resolutely didn’t want their parent to be regarded as family. This meant finding ways to sidestep interactions with their parent, and even bluntly refusing overtures to reconnect, regardless of what others thought of their decision.

In response to a less than sensitive response to their situations, one participant stated, "When I get that reaction, that sort of surprise or judgmental reaction, like you can’t say that about your mom. . . I say, “Let me tell you what I went through so you can understand why this person is not my mom and I don’t have to respect her and love her like that.”

Role reciprocity

This has to do with whether or not adult children felt that they and their parents adhered to expected child/ parent roles, like providing social and financial support.

Adult children relayed that they didn’t assume the role of child and that their parents failed to fulfil their roles and associated duties. As one participant recalled, “I would never ever ask him for advice, I would never ever ever ask him for anything. Uh, he doesn’t have anything for me.”

Taking legal action

Adult children sometimes had to resort to the legal system to negate, neutralise, or dissolve their relationship with one or both parents. In so doing, they were able to reduce interdependence through a range of legal means. While some changed their durable power of attorney, others opted for legal emancipation. One participant recounted, “When I turned 18 maybe a week after that, mom knew I wanted to change my name and she gave me $114 dollars, took me to the courthouse, and I changed my name and I took her last name. And that was awesome.” (Excerpt from psychologytoday.com)

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thursDAY, december 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

cancelled”– Linden vendors Overseas-based Guyanese “Christmas …decry slow pace in holiday shopping killed during robbery W …21-year-old arrested A father of two was on Wednesday morning shot dead at Old Road, Craig, East Bank Demerara (EBD) by two gunmen, who attempted to relieve him of the gold chain he was wearing.

Purcell Moore, who is visiting Guyana from Cayenne, was reportedly shot at least four times by two pedal cycle bandits who attempted to snatch his chain. The shooting incident occurred mere minutes after the 42-yearold left his parent’s house at Old Road, Craig.

Guyana Times was told that the clothes vendor arrived in the country two weeks ago to spend time with his parents. When this newspaper visited the dead man’s parents’ home; his niece, Nicarla Lamazion, explained that her uncle left home at about 05:30h and by the time he reached the end of the concrete strip, she heard four gunshots.

She initially thought the sounds of the bullets came from another direction but within minutes, a resident rushed to their home to inform them of the shooting.

She noted that without hesitation, she rushed to the scene where she saw her un-

Dead: Purcell Moore

cle lying in a pool of blood.

“I tried to lift him up but he wasn’t responding… by then some boys come with a car and we took him to the Diamond Hospital but he was already dead,” she added. She however, noted that based on reports received, her uncle had a scuffle with two men prior to the shooting incident. The chain, which the men attempted to take away, was found lying next to his body.

With tears in her eyes, she described her uncle as a “good soul”.

A sister of the dead man, Kim (only name given), explained that she reached to work at about 07:15h and af-

CH&PA probing another house lot scam

T

he Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) says it is investigating a scam in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) involving the sale of lands by an individual not authorised to conduct business on behalf of the agency.

The issue was brought to the CH&PA’s attention and indicates that a woman, claiming to represent the agency, scammed several persons of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

“Last week two men visited our Regional Housing Office to enquire of lands they paid for, only to be told that the agency does not have any records of transacting business with them. The men related to housing officials at the Regional Office that they were approached by a woman claiming that she could have gotten lands for them through the agency at a reduced cost,” the CH&PA said on Wednesday.

According to the agency, one of the men paid the woman $150,000 for three house lots with a balance of $180,000 for, his children while another paid $70,000 with a balance of $60,000.

The CH&PA further stated that there are several other instances of the same scam artist eliciting money from vulnerable people, but noted that the victims are unwilling to come forward. The agency will be turning the mat-

ter over to the Police, however, persons are asked to be on the alert for scammers.

All payments relating to the sale of land or housing units from the Central Housing and Planning Authority must be done at the agency’s Georgetown head office, Regional Housing Offices or Regional Democratic Council.

Just recently, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) Regional Housing Officer Omesh Sasenarayan, along with his deputy, Safeia Razak, was accused of unlawfully collecting monies from persons for house-lots in the region.

According to reports, earlier in the year, the Housing Officer allegedly collected the sum of $50,000 as payment for a house lot but issued a personal receipt instead of an official one, converting the money to his own use. It is reported that Razak acted in collaboration with him.

The woman, he sold the land to visited the Regional Democratic Office for an update on the progress of her transaction only to be told that there were no records and the receipt she had in her possession was fake.

She then ventured to office of the Central Housing and Planning Authority at Brickdam, Georgetown and it was revealed that there were no records of the transaction.

ter some time, she received the message that her brother was “no more”. She immediately rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where she saw her brother’s body.

“His head had a big hole at the back with blood oozing out,” she recalled. She too stated that he did not have any issues with anyone.

The aggrieved sister further stated that her brother’s two children, who reside in Cayenne, were informed of their father’s death.

Meanwhile, Police in a statement revealed that one of the suspects, a 21-year-old of 14th Avenue, Diamond New Housing Scheme, EBD, was apprehended and is being questioned in connection with the murder.

The Police are in pursuit of the second suspect as investigations continue.

ith just a few days left until Christmas, vendors and stallholders at Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) are complaining about the slow pace in business.

Some vendors have already declared it “the worst year” yet, noting that there is minimal holiday shopping this year, as opposed to the usual spike in economic activities associated with this time of the year. Guyana Times visited a number of vendors and stallholders along the Mackenzie Market area, considered the main shopping arena in the community, to have a first-hand look at the holiday shopping atmosphere.

“It’s like Christmas cancel or something this year.

Nothing ain’t going on.

People hardly shopping.

Well, we hoping things pick up by weekend,” one vendor lamented.

Meanwhile, some are comparing the state of activities with that of last year, noting that while last year was slow also, it was far bet-

ter than this year.

“Last year was better, a hundred per cent better. I would blame it on the President. He’s pressuring the business people in terms of expending. They’re not getting to expend due to the taxes. Businesspeople got to pay bills and the smaller ones are feeling it,” Curtis of Curtis Groceries and Greens Stand told this publication.

The entrepreneur, who has been in business for 25 years, stated that he was not optimistic about business next year, as he pointed out that the prices for some items such as apples which are popularly sold around this season have increased. He explained that he believed that it was a countrywide issue.

The businessman said while it was customary for him to provide holiday hampers to his staff, this year he was sceptical since his business has declined by about 60 per cent.

“I think next year would be worse. Time like this I don’t frighten to invest in me shop, but right now I fright-

en. What I giving me workers them to carry home this season?” he worried.

Yet another vendor, Ronnel Mingo noted that the situation may be caused by limited spending power.

“Look how the track clear,” she said, “Plenty people ain’t get ‘back’ pay and it’s the teachers who would usually give we a boost, but they ain’t get nothing this year. Just their flat salary. Like two years back, we would have been running to town three, four times to bring up goods, but not this year. We only hoping that it gets better because it’s just a couple more days left,” she said.

Joan Caesar of Chanzar’s Enterprise said business was moving along slowly, but she was optimistic that it would get better at the weekend.

Another vendor, Wendell, said he remained hopeful.

“Time like this the place does ram. I’m hoping things pick up, because I buy plenty things and I glad for it sell out. But how much shopping people could do in one week?” he lamented. (Utamu Belle)

8 NEWS

thursDAY, december 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

City Hall’s garbage woes

Council to buy 2 garbage trucks in 2018 – Mayor

I

n 2018, the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown will receive a $200 million subvention from the Communities Ministry and in order to minimise its garbage collection bill, the municipality is planning to utilise the funds to purchase two new garbage trucks.

Currently, City Hall pays approximately $90 million per month in garbage collection fees to its two major contractors, Puran Bros Disposal Service and Cevons Waste Management Inc. “In our 2018 budget, the $200 million that was given to us by the Government will be busted to purchase two new garbage trucks.

Until those trucks are here, I don’t think we have the capacity to clear effectively the areas that the Council controls and we are still looking at that,” Mayor Patricia Chase Green noted.

Puran Brothers Disposal and Cevons Waste Management withdrew their services on July 30, 2017, as City Hall’s debts had risen to the multimillion-dollar range. According to the companies, the issue of non-payment has been a long-stand-

Georgetown Mayor Patricia Chase Green

ing one, with many debts going as far back as 2015.

However, they have since resumed collection after the municipality approached Central Government through the Communities Ministry for a bailout of $475,635, 245 to settle the city’s debt to Puran Brothers, Cevons, and another company after they would have pulled their services owing to non-payment.

The bailout was granted, and Central Government decided to pick up the tab until December 31, after which the M&CC would step in.

When asked whether the

administration has begun engaging the contractors, the Mayor explained that they were preparing for that meeting sometime soon.

“We want to be quite clear with them when we meet with them how we move forward in 2018; the Government takes us up to the 31st December … even at the end of 31st of December, the holidays don’t end there because you have 12 nights coming up and the containers go down the streets and there is a triple increase in garbage and so we got to engage them, but we will do it sometime before the year is over, so we will have a smooth transition for 2018,” she further stated.

Solid Waste Director Walter Narine had earlier stated that the two contractors would come back with reduced responsibilities. He said that the new arrangement would see each contractor being paid $10 million per month for their services as compared to the previous range of $43 million to $45 million per month.

However, Chase Green noted that the Council did not have the capacity to em-

bark on such an undertaking.

“I don’t want to say we are going to take back an area and after the first week our truck, tractor-trailer cannot make the pick-up even though it’s once a week and the garbage will have to pile up. We were experiencing that before Cevons came back to work with us through the contract of the Government. So, we are trying to fine-tune all those areas,” she said.

On September 1, the M&CC implemented fees for commercial waste collection. Small business operators are required to pay $5000 per month while medium businesses will contend with $8000 per month.

However, large business operators across Georgetown are required to pay the most significant figure of $12,000 per month for their waste collection.

The Solid Waste Director had told the Council that while the originally approved fees for commercial garbage collection were $5000, $10,000 and $15,000 – the last two were reduced to $8000 and $12,000 after consultations.

2 charged for trafficking, smoking ganja

A

sous chef who was allegedly caught smoking marijuana was on Wednesday charged and taken before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Daryl Glasgow appeared before Magistrate Leron Daly and denied the charge.

It is alleged that the sous

chef, who works at a popular Kingston restaurant, was caught smoking cannabis on December 19, 2017.

The 21-year-old of C Field, Sophia, was represented by Attorney-at-Law Paul Fung-A-Fat. The lawyer contended that Police searched his cli-

ent and found a cigarette stub in his pocket on the day in question prior to his arrest.

Following a bail application, he was released on $40,000 bail and was scheduled to return to court today.

Additionally, a prisoner, who was reportedly caught

with 25 grams of cannabis, was charged and appeared in court.

It is alleged that Joseph McCalmon had the prohibited substance in his possession on November 18, 2017.

The case will continue on January 10, 2018.

Man fined $100,000 for “punching” woman

A

man who claimed that he retaliated in “self-defence” by punching a woman to her face was fined $100,000 by Magistrate Leron Daly on Monday morning after ad-

mitting to the offence.

According to the prosecution’s case, Morris Canterbury unlawfully and maliciously inflicted grievous bodily harm on Felicia Phillips on December 13,

2017.

The prosecution further stated that the victim was at home when the defendant confronted her and an argument ensued. In a fit of rage, Canterbury dealt Phillips a

series of punches to the face.

While admitting to his actions, Canterbury claimed that the woman had approached him with a cutlass and was compelled to act in self-defence.

He was fined $100,000.

Failure to pay the fine will result in him serving six months in prison.

New developments…

T

…in investment he AFC, via its then Chairman (and now leader) Raphael Trotman, introduced the term of art, “political investment’ into the Guyanese lexicon.

‘Twas at the opening of their spanking new headquarters in Kitty when one big businessman was acknowledged as the fella who’d funded the entire shebang! It wasn’t too long after, the “political investment” produced a big dividend for the investor when his moribund Wind Farm was touted as the epitome of “going green” on electricity, rather than hydro in general and AFHEP in particular!!

Anyhow, the AFC did take some licks for their frank avowal for what’s clearly the norm in their coalition – with PNC’s payoffs like the “bottom house warehouse” and ANSA’s big pharma contract. (ANSA isn’t “big pharma”, just their contract is!!). So how do we deal with the latest twist in “political investments” that just cropped up??

Your humble Eyewitness is referring to the accusation

by Ramjattan’s cousin who claimed the big and bad PPP deep-sixed his US$5 million proposed investment in a factory to produce condiments. This was evidently an AFC “family investment” that was nastily nixed!

The Muckraker immediately jumped all over that accusation as proof positive of the “vindictiveness” of the PPP towards those who may even have the most tenuous of connections to the “other side”. But lo and behold, an exculpation of the PPP just came from the most unlikely of sources – the head of Go-Invest! Not the PPP appointee who was axed early in the new dispensation – but the newly appointed one, who probably hasn’t been around long enough to’ve absorbed enough of the local political bile.

The fella allowed he couldn’t very well pronounce on what transpired under the PPP. But what he could say was as soon as the new Government was installed and the (political) Ramjattan was made VP and Public Security Minister, the (business) Ramjattan showed up at GoInvest’s door! Armed with recommendations “from the top down”, the (business) Ramjattan asked for five acres of prime land near Georgetown, and “demands that can’t be met from the legal framework in place”!!

Not getting the answer he expected – giving in to all he’d asked for and damn the legal formalities, like occurred on the warehouse etc – the (business) Ramjattan plunked his investment down in T&T. The Go-Invest honcho figured that in addition to the concessions, T&T’s energy costs – five times less than ours – might’ve had something to do with his decision. Most likely, this was probably the PPP’s rationale also!

The (political) Ramjattan just doesn’t have any say in the Police Force, but also absolutely no clout in doling out favours.

Even on a “family investment”!! …in the colour scheme Ralph Ramkarran, the former Speaker, gave the leader of the PNC – and President of our fair land, David Granger – the benefit of the doubt after observing him painting State House (breaking the law of the said fair country in the process!) and the Ministry of the Presidency’s buildings, GREEN. Ramkarran suggested the colour may just be Granger signalling the world he’s serious about his “green agenda”. The details of the said agenda remain shrouded in mystery so maybe the world does need a signal?!

Your Eyewitness will not break a lance with Ramkarran, save to say he’s not convinced on account of President Granger’s single-minded drive to re-institute PNC’s paramountcy over the State – and green just happens to be the PNC’s colour!! Another arrow in that (subversive) quiver is the AFC’s yellow was quietly dumped from the green-and-yellow colour scheme launched on Independence Day 2015.

Well, Granger’s being challenged on the “paramountcy of colours” by no other than Baby Jesus – Burnham’s sonin-law!

He just painted GWI’s vehicles “green and yellow”!! …in economic development?

So the opening of a Burger King franchise portends our economic take-off? Now don’t get your Eyewitness wrong…he appreciates the symbolism of “first world” burgers.

But wouldn’t increased obesity slow our take-off?

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

News

9

thursDAY, december 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyana’s spending on basic services below regional average – IDB ...as 2017-2021 country strategy approved; Guyana to access US$86.1M

By Jarryl Bryan

G

uyana’s 2017 to 2021 country strategy has been approved by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), opening access to some US$86.1 million in concessional financing. Guyana has a limited window of opportunity; however, as the Bank warned that with oil production, Guyana’s access to such financing will be a thing of the past.

The matter is particularly urgent, as the IDB noted in its report that despite favourable macro-economic growth, this has not been translated into better living standards for Guyanese.

According to the group in its country strategy report, Guyana spends less than the regional average on services for the ordinary public.

“Although recent data on income distribution and the incidence of poverty are unavailable, all other indicators suggest that growth has not been pro-poor, or inclusive. Despite its continuous increase since 1990, per capita income remains among the lowest in the Englishspeaking Caribbean, at US$7520 (Purchasing Power Parity) as of 2015.”

“The country’s Human Development Index score has not improved significantly when compared with Latin America and the Caribbean and has been consistently lower than the re-

gional average since the 1990s. Today, the HDI score stands at 0.64 compared with 0.75 for LAC (Latin America, Caribbean).”

The IDB made a comparison with Guyana’s regional peers, noting that in health, the country spends US$222 per capita compared to an LAC average of US$694. In the case of education, expenditure totalled 3.6 per cent of GDP compared to an LAC average of 5.2 per cent.

The strategy

According to the IDB, the strategy itself has been designed to fit in with Guyana’s existing portfolio commitments. In addition, it will respond to Government priorities in the new Green State Development Strategy, as they develop.

“Activities will focus on four main areas.

Establishing a modern national strategy and planning framework for undergirding the new Green State Development Strategy, including efforts to promote Guyana’s economic diversification efforts and pursue modern industrial policies.”

The Bank noted that it would also help in “strengthening fiscal policies and the framework for managing Guyana’s natural resource revenues; Facilitating Private Sector development to support the delivery of better services, mainly through enhancing Guyana’s busi-

The last time a loan was signed between the Government of Guyana and the IDB. In photo, Finance Minister Winston Jordan and IDB President Luis Alberto Moreno sign the agreement

ness environment; and delivering critical infrastructure to facilitate Guyana’s human and Private Sector development.”

The IDB noted that as Guyana transitions to oil and gas production by 2020, the reduced access to concessional financing makes the next four years particularly important for the IDB’s partnership with Guyana.

“Several risks will need to be swiftly addressed including the continued vulnerability to commodity price shocks, and the adequate creation of new Government structures to manage a hitherto unknown sector. The IDB will work with the Government of Guyana to achieve the good life for all, as it undergoes this historic economic transformation,” the IDB stated.

Accident at Wallers Delight

Father of 5 killed while going to purchase bread

P

olice say they are investigating a fatal accident which occurred around 21:00h on Tuesday night on the Wallers Delight Public Road, West Coast Demerara (WCD) that resulted in the death of pedestrian Mohamed Nazim, age 44.

Felicia Persaud, 30, the daughter-in-law of the deceased, was injured in the accident. The vehicle involved in the accident, a Jeep bearing registration plates PTT 779, was driven by a 43-year-old resident of Meten-Meer-Zorg, WCD. According to the Police, the vehicle was proceeding East along the northern carriageway, allegedly at a fast rate. It struck the pedestrians who, along with other family members, were crossing the road from South to North.

In an unconscious state, Nazim and Persaud were rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital.

However, Nazim died while receiving medical at-

Mohamed Nazim

tention and Persaud was treated and admitted in a

stable and now conscious condition. The driver who was administered a breathalyser test and found to have negative alcohol readings in his breath, has since been detained and is assisting with the investigation.

The dead man was reportedly struck down by the vehicle as he was walking with his son and daughterin-law to a nearby shop to purchase a loaf of bread.

The deceased, who resided at Wallers Delight, leaves to mourn five children who at the time of his death, were all in his care since their mother passed away three years ago.

Concessional financing

Guyana’s access to concessional financing was already under strain from the announcement, in 2016, of Guyana’s re-classification by the World Bank from a lower to an upper middle-income country. This had come following the oil discoveries in the Stabroek Block.

While it was agreed that the upgrade was a positive indicator, concerns had also been expressed that Guyana would lose some of the concessionary terms and agreements it enjoys internationally.

According to the Finance Ministry’s Public Debt Report, it turns out that as Guyana graduates and the economy continues to grow, the development will be a proverbial Trojan Horse as there will be a transition to floating interest rate loans.

Floating interest loans are adjustable and thus, do not afford the same protection a fixed rate arrangement would.

“Already, Guyana is be-

ginning to experience an increase in the prevalence of 'blended loans' where one portion of the loan is granted on a fixed interest rate basis and the other portion of the same loan is granted on a

floating interest rate basis,” the report states.

Earlier this year, Government signed four new loan agreements with the IDB to secure US millions in developmental resources to finance key initiatives within the Legal Affairs, Agriculture, Business and Public Health Ministries.

The agreements were signed by Finance Minister Winston Jordan and President of the IDB, Luis Alberto Moreno, at the Headquarters of the IDB in Washington, DC. These loans were to support Government’s developmental agenda of promoting investment; improving connectivity throughout Guyana; diversifying the economy; and providing citizens with quality healthcare and social services.

10 news Prisoner charged for threatening to kill President A thursDAY, december 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

lim Ally, a Lusignan Prison inmate who called 911 threatening to assassinate President David Granger in November was on Monday hauled before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

It is alleged that Ally while in a public place (Lusignan Prison, East Coast Demerara) telephoned 911, and threatened to kill the President and shoot at the Brickdam Police Station with intent to cause

fear. Three charges of a similar nature followed and according to Prosecutor Arvin Moore, the telephone calls were made on different occasions between November 10 and November 19, 2017.

Ally denied all four charges

read to him by Magistrate Leron Daly.

The Prosecutor objected to bail, and informed the court that Ally was presently serving a five-year sentence at the said penitentiary. This objection was upheld by the Magistrate who then ordered that Ally return before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan today.

Earlier this year, Andriff Gillard had alleged that he

Lusignan Prison inmate Alim Ally

was offered $7 million to assassinate the Head of State, and accused popular businessman Nizam Khan of being the mastermind on national television.

An investigation was promptly launched followed by a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) upon order of President Granger himself. However, the Inquiry found that the story told by Gillard was not corroborated.

Thursday, december 21, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

C

hristmas is right around the corner. Literally! Many persons are now scrambling to find the ideal present for their loved ones, without breaking the bank. As we begin crossing off names on the gift list, here are some thoughtful, yet quick to put together gifts for your loved ones. Let’s get festive!

Gifts for her: …because we’ve all learned our lesson with the blenders…and the pots & pans…and that time we totally thought she’d appreciate the new coffee maker. So, let’s face it we can all use a little holiday gift giving inspiration when it’s time to buy for the person who’s always been there for you! Whether you’re buying for your wife or girlfriend we’ve got you covered.

Techy girl- It is not just men who are into technology rather these days we have women from all generation interested in technology. Here is the perfect gift for your tech savvy woman. The New Amazon Echo! Your special woman can ask Alexa anything and she will answer almost instantaneously. So what are you waiting for?

Unwinding her- For many of the women on our lives, Christmas means being constantly cleaning and cooking and in some instances working a 9-5 or 8-4. So a nice scented candle coupled with relaxing bath salts and essential oils is the ideal gift for you to unwind your woman.

Gifts for him: Let’s face it ladies, ties, shirts and colognes are overrated! Ladies it is time to think outside of the box and pamper your man. Get him unexpected gifts to show that you care more about what he wants rather than what is more convenient for you.

Fashionable men- As time progresses men are becoming more aware of their appearance and taking more time in coordinating their outfits. Everything they wear, these days, serves a purpose. A nice pair of sneakers will become his new go-to when he takes you out on that date after the holidays.

The clean guy- To complement that perfect look, your dude must have the smoothest shave or that sexy 5 O’clock shadow you so desire. A great brand grooming kit will work wonders for your man.

Gifts for the kids:

This Christmas invest in your child’s future and get them something fun to play with but also something they can learn from. So don’t you worry we got you covered.

Talent promotion- recognize your children’s talent at an early age and push them to realize their full potential.

Getting your child involved in music and learning to play an instrument teaches them discipline and self-expression.

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thursDAY, december 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

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thursDAY, december 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Let’s face it sometimes we can never find that perfect gift to complement the person whom we are buying it for. So have no fear we are here to show you some great ideas to create that unique gift for that special someone. These easy to make and inexpensive gifts would leave the recipient smiling for days to come.

Mason jar Candy Cane Scrub • • • • •

You will need

1-cup sugar ½ cup almond or coconut oil divided 8-10 drops of peppermint essential oil Mason jar Red food colouring

Direction

1. Divide sugar equally in two bowls.

2. In bowl one mix in ¼ cup of oil and repeat step with other bowl 3. Mix in about 4 drops of coloring in one bowl then add peppermint oil to same bowl.

4. In the jar, start layering to replicate a candy cane-red, white, red, white.

5. Seal jar and attach bow.

Multi-Strand Scarf • • • •

You will need

1 old T-shirt (the bigger the better) 1 pair of scissors 1 ruler 10 minutes

Directions

1. Start with a large T-shirt. Any old shirt will do! Seamless is a plus!

2. Cut off the bottom hem of the shirt.

Then cut 1in – 2in wide strips horizontally across the shirt from bottom to armpit. You can cut as many strips as you would like (I liked my thick strips the most). The more strips, the more strands your scarf will have. You can use a ruler to guide a straight line across the shirt, but don’t worry if they aren’t perfect.

3. Set the bottom hem aside. Stretch all of the remaining strips until they become long, and the raw edges start to roll inwards.

4. Cut one end of the bottom hemline so it becomes a string.

5. Using the strip of bottom hemline, knot it around the strands to secure them in place.

6. Wrap the strip a few inches around the center of the scarf, and back over to meet the other ends. Knot the ends together tightly.

7. Trim the loose ends and tuck the knot underneath the wrapped fabric.

Toilet paper core chandelier What you will need: • Toilet Paper Cores • Fishing Line • Spray Paint • Needle Nose Pliers • Hanger • Craft Wire • Lamp Kit • Scissors • Steps 1. Using the wire cutter portion of the pliers, trim the hanger down to the approximate size you want. Bend the hanger into a 10. Wrap the wire that you wrapped around the lamp kit to the circle to form the frame of frame of the chandelier. the chandelier.

2. Cut the cardboard toilet paper tube in half and lay it flat.

3. Cut the roll into 8 equal rectangles.

4. Spray paint both sides of the cardboard.

5. 5. Using an Xacto knife, poke a small hole near one end of each rectangle.

6. Thread fishing line through the hole and tie a knot.

7. Tie three rectangles onto each fishing wire strand.

8. Tie the strand onto the frame you made in step 1.

Continue steps 6-8 until you have filled the frame with strands all the way around.

9. Take the lamp kit and securely wrap wire around it.

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thursDAY, december 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

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thursDAY, december 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

If you feel like you're being set up to fail having to holiday shop for a picky teenager, consider this your cheat sheet. Here, we've rounded up some awesome gift ideas that will earn you the title of Best Gift Giver Ever! So let’s shop…

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban: The Illustrated Edition – J.K Rowling did it to us again, and this time, readers can jump into the Harry Potter adventure with illustrations that bring the story to life. Sirius Black is the prisoner in this story, and he’s been held for 12 years in the terrifying Azkaban…what can Harry and his crew do to help?

Alex Ombré Hair FX- Has your teen been dying to color her hair? Surprise her this Christmas with the Alex Ombré Hair FX kit. To apply, she'll sandwich her hair tips between the pink, purple, or teal clamp and drag down to color. Don't worry, Mom — the color washes out the next day.

Anker SoundCore Nano Bluetooth Speaker-This speaker is so small, your teen will be able to place it anywhere. The sound will stream crystal clear via Bluetooth up to 33 feet away. It comes with a wristband, so it's perfect for working out or looping around a backpack strap.

Beachwaver-This is how to give your teen the Cali-girl waves she always wanted.

This hair tool — the secret to the bombshell hair at the Victoria's Secret fashion show — will provide flawless waves in just minutes.

She can't beat that when she's rushing to get ready for school in the morning.

DropMix Music Gaming SystemIf your teen loves music and having fun (what teen doesn't?), consider the DropMix gaming system by Hasbro.

Teens can create their own mixes using the freestyle, clash, or party setting. It includes over 60 cards featuring trendy music from popular artists.

CAP Barbell 40-Pound Adjustable Dumbbell Set-This set includes two handles, four 2.5-pound weights, four 5-pound weights, four collars, and a case to store them all in. This is a great beginner set for a teen starting to experiment with lifting. Bonus: It's rust-resistant.

Soma System 9-Ball Massage GloveThis massage glove is the perfect stocking

stuffer. Being a teen is so stressful, so why not encourage yours to unwind with this handy (literally) tool.

Concentrate pressure on one to three balls for a deep tissue massage.

Bluetooth Beanie-This super cool beanie has Bluetooth technology. Your teen will love looking like he's simply keeping warm, while secretly listening to his favorite songs.

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guyanatimesgy.com

thursDAY, december 21, 2017

News

Escape from lock-ups

2 still on the run, 1 back in custody … result of “poor supervision” – Crime Chief

R

anks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) are currently on the hunt for two of three suspects, who broke out of an East Bank Demerara (EBD) Police Station on Tuesday afternoon.

Twenty-five-year-old murder accused Wayne Gilbert of Lot 30 West La Penitence, Georgetown, was handed over to the Police at the Brickdam Station just before midnight on Tuesday by his father.

He was scheduled to be arraigned before a city magistrate on Wednesday for the murder of Rawle Rodrigues, on January 20 at the Stabroek Square.

The other two escapees: armed robbery suspect Ivre

Escapee Wayne Gilbert

Escapee Derrol James

Hooper, 25, of James Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, and Derrol James, 22, of Lot 131 Middle Walk, Buxton, East Coast Demerara, who

was arrested on a simple larceny charge, are still on the run.

According to acting Crime Chief Paul Williams,

efforts are afoot to recapture the duo, who are of significant interest to the Police.

“We are checking … we have some information about where the second person is likely to be, so we are making checks,” he posited.

Police reports revealed that ranks at the Grove Police Station, located on the East Bank of Demerara, had taken a group of 13 inmates out from the lock-ups to the holding area for them to freshen up.

It was during this exercise that the three suspects made good their escape via an opening on the western wall. A piece of metal, believed to have been broken off from the lock-ups door and used to break the wall,

Grove Police Station from which the three inmates escaped on Tuesday afternoon

was subsequently found by the Police.

Williams believes that there should have been more ranks present at the station when such exercises are being carried out.

“The escape would have occurred because of poor supervision; there should have been more ranks present. At the time of bringing those persons into a certain area, there should have been more ranks present around there and because of that, it gave (the suspects) the opportunity to do what they did to make good their escapes,” the acting Crime Chief asserted.

According to Williams, several ranks attached to

the station were out on patrol duty when the incident occurred.

As a result of the breakout, the supervisor who was in charge of the shift during which the incident occurred has been placed under close arrest as investigations are ongoing.

The acting Crime Chief had also stated that more ranks were also expected to be hauled in for questioning.

The Police Force is asking anyone with information that would lead to the rearrests of Gilbert and James to make contact with the nearest Police Station or any of the Force’s emergency/hotline numbers.

Choir leader found guilty of child rape …sentenced to life imprisonment

“Y

ou say are a devoted Catholic; I hope you pray to God and ask forgiveness.”

Those were the admonishing words of Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall as she handed down two life imprisonment sentences to Michael Abrams after he was found guilty of child rape at the High Court in Georgetown on Wednesday. Abrams, who is said to be in his early 50s, had a stone faced countenance when the 12-member mixed jury unanimously found him guilty on two counts of rape of a child under 16, who was said to be a female relative.

The first count for which Abrams was found guilty occurred sometime between January 1 and 19, 2016, and the second count on January 19, 2016. Among the illegal acts he committed included sexual penetration with the young girl and anal penetration with the child on the other occasion.

A response from the victim, whose name was withheld in keeping with the Sexual Offences Act, was read out in court by Project Coordinator and Court Support, Kaiesha Perry. She stated that she met with the

A 12-member jury found Michael Abrams guilty on two counts of child rape

victim over a period of three weeks and was allowed to read her views.

“This situation makes me feel sad. I felt like the accused would try to hurt me,” Perry noted. According to Perry’s testimony, the young girl also indicated that she also felt fearful that Abrams would come to her school and try to hurt her or the teacher to which she had confided in. The girl, who is now 10 years old, further said that she realises that what the accused did to her was wrong and that she now know it was not her fault. continued on page 17

thursDAY, december 21, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

17

News

Music Director named Best Cop NBS ordered to pay fired CEO $59M

… during Police Force awards ceremony

one to Arrrowpoint Nature Resort as well as dinner for two at the Duke Lodge – all compliments of the Roraima Group of Companies.

Meanwhile, the runner-up Best Cop spot was given to Sergeant Boyce, a traffic rank who was also named Best Cop of A Division (Georgetown-East Bank Demerara). A Best Cop from each of the policing divisions was also rewarded with $100,000 and a plaque.

Other ranks who made a breakthrough in several high-profile cases were also awarded with monetary prizes. Moreover, due recThis year’s top performing ranks of the Guyana Police Force pose for a photo with the Force’s hierarchy after Wednesday’s award ceremony

By Vahnu Manikchand

I

n efforts to reward ranks for their outstanding work while motivating others to step up their game, the Guyana Police Force held its annual awards ceremony for which in excess of $17 million in cash and prizes was expended.

The ceremony, which saw some 2106 ranks being rewarded with cash and other prizes for performing exceedingly well over the past year, was held at the Officers’ Mess Annex on Wednesday.

Delivering the feature address, acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine reflected on the successes and achievements of the Force over the past year, noting that much more can be done to better improve the Police Force.

He posited that the numerous donations of vehicles and equipment coupled with the training offered by both local and international partners were done with the expectation of enhanc-

ing performance by ranks.

“To whom much is given, much is expected, much is required. We have received, are receiving and will continue to receive much-needed capacity building in human and material resources. We have to deliver and cannot expect anything less; we can deliver and must deliver improved performances so that our quality of service improves and that our complaints in particular will reduce, and unprofessional conduct needs to be dealt with condignly and must reduce,” the acting Top Cop asserted.

Ramnarine went on to say that those ranks who were not awarded should use this as a motivational tool to work harder in the future so that they too could be rewarded.

“Let me congratulate all those of you who have received and will receive financial and other rewards, and encourage those yet to receive to strive harder, make a greater effort and yours would be right around the corner,” he stat-

ed.

Outshining her colleagues to arrest the top prize of the Police Force’s Best Cop (overall) Award was Director of Music, Superintendent Charmaine Stuart. She was rewarded for her “unwavering, disciplined, committed and focused” dedication to the job, for which she is praised for always going beyond the call of duty.

With 28 years of service under her belt, Stuart had broken the so-called glass ceiling to become the first woman to head the Force’s band in its 177 years of existence. Among her many other portfolios, she also chairs the Joint Services Culture Committee and is the Vice President of the Guyana Association of Women Police.

Superintendent Stuart was awarded a trophy along with $250,000. She was also given a plaque and $100,000 for her work as the Music Director.

Additionally, she was given a trip for two to Aruba, one to Kaieteur Falls and

2017 Best Cop, Superintendent Charmaine Stuart

ognition was also given to Community Policing Group members from various divisions across the country.

Choir leader found guilty...

from page 16

She further added that she hopes that the accused would not do what he had done to her or anyone else, ever again.

The case was heard over the last several days in the Sexual Offence Court. The jury came to their decision after some three hours of deliberations. After the verdict was handed down in the midst of Abrams’ nonchalant appearance, Justice Morris-Ramlall enquired from the accused what he wanted to say. He responded by saying that even though the jury “in their wisdom” found him guilty, he maintained statements from his testimony during court proceedings where he observed that he could not and did not commit the offence.

“That I will maintain Madame,” Abrams told the

Judge.

He was represented by three attorneys – Leslie Sobers, Trenton Lake and Chandrawattie Persaud.

The lawyer, in plea of mitigation before the sentencing, told the court that Abrams has been in service to many persons in his church.

“I have no doubt that he has served his acquaintances in many respects,” Persaud stated. She further highlighted that Abrams was once in charge of the church choir where he had oversight of many persons, including children. The attorney said her client’s integrity was never impeached at any stage.

However, State Prosecutor who led the case, Seeta Bisundial, highlighted contrasting views against what Persaud had stat-

ed. Bisundial reminded the court that Abrams abused his position of trust and violated the child in the worst way possible, shattering her innocence. She also noted that the victim will have to live with what occurred for the rest of her life. The State Counsel noted that even though Abrams was found guilty, he showed no remorse.

“It still holds true that you can see the face of man but not the heart of man,” Bisundial said. As such, she appealed for the maximum sentence to be imposed.

After some 10 minutes awaiting a response from the Judge to all that was said in court, Justice MorrisRamlall noted that she considered the nature of the offence and the circumstances that surrounded the attack.

She noted the evidence that the girl loved him and that Abrams said he loved her.

The Judge however contended that the accused “pretended” to love her and treated the young girl “like a beast” which included him sodomising the child.

Reminding him that he abused a position of trust, Justice Morris-Ramlall noted that Abrams should seek forgiveness as he claimed to be a devoted Catholic.

She then sentenced him to serve a life imprisonment sentence on each count, which will run concurrently.

However, he will be eligible for parole after severing 35 years in prison. Abrams was led away by a team of Police ranks and was heard angrily responding to the court’s sentence.

– as Bank secures stay of execution on remaining $20M payment

T

he Appeal Court of Guyana has upheld the High Court’s awarding of over $59 million in pension benefits to former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the New Building Society (NBS), Maurice Arjoon, more than 10 years after he was dismissed from his post. However, the remaining $20 million for which the High Court had also determined that Arjoon should receive was not awarded and will form part of substantive appeal as the Bank secured a stay of execution against the former CEO’s judgment.

These determinations were made by Appeal Court Justice, Rishi Persaud, who on Wednesday ruled that there was no basis for a stay of execution in relation to the former CEO’s more than $59 million lump sum which was described as the pension amount. Arjoon’s Attorney, Sanjeev Datadin explained that this means that NBS has to pay the former CEO’s pension. The $20,249,000 for which NBS obtained the stay, relates to $4.1 million for pay in lieu of notice, in accordance with Clause 10 of Arjoon’s contract and $16.1 million for severance benefits.

Guyana Times understands that now the stay of proceedings is complete, the record will have to be assembled and when the record is assembled, then the substantive appeal will continue. Wednesday’s matter was heard in chambers and lawyer for NBS, Ashton Chase indicated to this publication that a date for the continuation of proceedings will be determined in the future.

In the meantime, Datadin is optimistic that his client will receive his pension.

“Presumably New Building Society is going to pay my client,” the Attorney noted.

The back and forth for this case has been ongoing for years. The former CEO took NBS to court for his outstanding pension and other benefits in 2011.

Arjoon had originally sued the lending agency for some $550 million in damages on the following grounds: that he had been wrongfully dismissed from his post, and that his former employer had withheld pension and other benefits due to him.

The former top official was fired from his position 10 years ago in connection with

Dismissed former NBS CEO Maurice Arjoon

a Magistrate’s court matter wherein he, NBS Operations Manager Kent Vincent and NBS Assistant Mortgage Manager Kissoon Baldeo were all accused of conspiracy to defraud the NBS of $69 million. The court matter was eventually dismissed, and Arjoon and the co-defendants took the financial institution to court.

High Court Judge, Justice Brassington Reynolds on July 17 ruled in the dismissed CEO’s favour, awarding him more than $79 million in outstanding payments and benefits.

The court also ruled that he should be paid a monthly pension of $372,498 from July 1 onwards. The Judge further ordered that the former CEO should receive financial compensation for the damages he had suffered; and moreover, that he was entitled to his pension and severance benefits, in accordance with provisions stipulated in the laws of Guyana.

The NBS had contended that an unauthorised withdrawal of nearly $70 million had been made from an account that its client Bibi Shamina Khan held. The NBS’s issue with the withdrawal was that it was made through a Power of Attorney, and the company had implicated Arjoon for misconduct. The court in its determination contended that the NBS had failed to provide evidence that supported its claim of misconduct, whether serious or otherwise.

Arjoon, who told media operatives that he was sick, had claimed that he was setup on the fraud allegations because he allegedly refusal to approve a loan of some $2 billion applied for in 2006.

He had also noted that the investigation into the fraud allegations was conducted later that same year, implicating him as CEO, as well as the co-defendants.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

thursDAY, december 21, 2017

ARCHIE

A personal change can be made.

You’ll feel good about (March 21the way you look and feel if April 19) you choose a healthy lifestyle and project self-confidence.

Romance is highlighted.

ARIES

You’ll face opposition if you TAURUS are physically, emotionally or (April 20- financially excessive. Consider May 20) the consequences and show more discipline in the way you live, act and spend. Avoid people who are bad influences.

dilbert

Don’t take on responsiGEMINI bilities that don’t belong to (May 21you.

Too much of anything June 20) will leave you in a vulnerable position. Aim to please, but stay within your budget.

Don’t be fooled by a smooth talker. When it comes to han(June 21- dling your money and personJuly 22) al affairs, you need to take charge. Use your imagination to find a workable solution.

CANCER

Peanuts

Take care of your responLEO sibilities or someone will com(July 23- plain. You can have fun afAug. 22) ter you take care of business.

A personal change will lead to compliments and an affectionate encounter.

Keep your eye on the ball.

VIRGO Don’t let emotions drag you off(Aug. 23course. It’s important to search Sept. 22) for truth and to make your decisions based on facts, not on assumptions.

Calvin and Hobbes

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

Taking on too much will make you anxious. You are best off revisiting your to-do list and finding a way to cut back. A realistic assessment will help you make fewer unrealistic promises.

Don’t let your emotions SCORPIO take control when dealing with (Oct. 24friends or relatives. You may not Nov. 22) agree with everyone, but diplomacy should be implemented in the spirit of the season.

Move things around at SAGITTARIUS home to suit your current sit(Nov. 23- uation. Visitors or guests will Dec. 21) appreciate your hospitality and want to return the favour in whatever way possible.

Personal growth is encouraged.

Look at the possibilities CAPRICORN that are within reach, and (Dec. 22hone in on what it is you Jan. 19) want to accomplish before the year comes to a close. Set realistic goals.

solution for LAST PUBLISHED Puzzle Emotions will surface, AQUARIUS making it difficult for you (Jan. 20- to make a decision. Don’t Feb. 19) let anger or remorse dictate how you deal with others. Do what’s best for you.

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

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

A change of heart will disrupt your plans. Try not to show disappointment. If you carry on, you will be surprised by the outcome. An opportunity will come your way.

thursDAY, december 21, 2017

I

ndia’s Yuzvendra Chahal picked up four wickets in a brilliant display of leg-spin bowling to guide the hosts to a facile 93run win against Sri Lanka in the opening Twenty20 in-

ternational at Cuttack on Wednesday.

Opener Lokesh Rahul, who was not part of the side that beat Sri Lanka 2-1 in the one-day international series, hit 61 off 48 balls to

19

KL Rahul was particularly impressive as he raced to his third 50-plus score in only nine T20I innings (BCCI photo)

SCOREBOARD

India Innings (20 overs maximum) RG Sharma* c Chameera b Mathews 17 KL Rahul b NLTC Perera 61 SS Iyer c †Dickwella b Pradeep 24 MS Dhoni† not out 39 MK Pandey not out 32 Extras (b-1, lb-1, nb-1, w-4) 7 Total (3 wickets, 20 Overs) 180 Did not bat: KD Karthik, HH Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, JJ Bumrah, JD Unadkat, YS Chahal Fall of wickets: 1-38 (RG Sharma, 4.6 ov), 2-101 (SS Iyer, 12.4 ov), 3-112 (KL Rahul, 14.3 ov) Bowling Fernando 2-0-16-0, Dananjaya 4-0-30-0, Chameera 3-0-38-0 (w-2), Mathews 3-0-19-1, Perera 4-0-37-1, Fernando 4-0-38-1 (nb-1, w-2) Sri Lanka Innings (target: 181 runs from 20 overs) N Dickwella† c Rahul b Unadkat 13 WU Tharanga c †Dhoni b Chahal 23 MDKJ Perera c †Dhoni b Kuldeep

Yadav 19 AD Mathews c & b Chahal 1 DAS Gunaratne st †Dhoni b Chahal 4 MD Shanaka c Pandya b Kuldeep Yadav 1 NLTC Perera* st †Dhoni b Chahal 3 A Dananjaya c & b Pandya 7 PVD Chameera c Rahul b Pandya 12 MVT Fernando c Unadkat b Pandya 2 ANPR Fernando not out 0 Extras (w-2) 2 Total (All out, 16 Overs) 87 Fall of wickets: 1-15 (N Dickwella, 1.4 ov), 2-39 (WU Tharanga, 4.5 ov), 3-46 (AD Mathews, 7.2 ov), 4-55 (DAS Gunaratne, 9 ov), 5-58 (MD Shanaka, 10.2 ov), 6-62 (NLTC Perera, 11.1 ov), 7-70 (MDKJ Perera, 12.4 ov), 8-76 (A Dananjaya, 13.6 ov), 9-85 (PVD Chameera, 15.4 ov), 1087 (MVT Fernando, 15.6 ov) Bowling: Pandya 4-0-29-3 (w1), Unadkat 2-0-7-1, Chahal 4-0-23-4 (w-1), Bumrah 2-010-0, Yadav 4-0-18-2

Yuzvendra Chahal celebrates with skipper Rohit Sharma the dismissal of Upul Tharanga (BCCI photo)

build the platform for India’s innings of 180-3 in 20 overs after Sri Lanka had won the toss and opted to field.

The tourists, who also lost the three-test series 1-0, were all out for 87, matching their second lowest total in the format and handing India their biggest victory

margin by runs in T20s.

Coming in to bowl inside the batting powerplay, Chahal showed exemplary control with a slippery ball, owing to the dew on the ground, and finished with 4-23 in his four overs.

Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav snubbed

out the remaining chances of a Sri Lanka challenge with figures of 2-18. Seamer Hardik Pandya wrapped up the tail with 3-29 as Sri Lanka were bundled out in 16 overs.

India, resting their top players including newly-wed regular skipper Virat Kohli,

lost stand-in captain Rohit Sharma (17) early but Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, who made 24, added 63 for the second wicket to give the home side a solid base.

Former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Manish Pandey provided the late flourish with a fourth-wicket stand of 68 as the duo added 61 in the last four overs of India’s innings.

Dhoni remained unbeaten on 39 from 22 balls while Pandey made 32 off 18 deliveries.

Sri Lanka must now win the second match at Indore on Friday to keep alive their hopes of claiming at least one series across the formats on their tour. (Reuters)

GCB/Jaguars 50 Overs League 2017…

Anthony Adams

Leon Johnson

Steven Jacobs

he Guyana Cricket Board (GCB)/Jaguars 50 Overs League continue on Thursday December 21 with its next round of matches bowling off simultaneously across venues in the country.

After rain washed out three of Tuesday’s scheduled four games, only one result was met after Essequibo ran roughshod over West Demerara, beating them by a handsome margin of nine

wickets.

Looking to the next round, most teams apart from the inform Essequibo; who are also the current 3-Day champs, will need to quickly get their franchises organized as the end of the tournament draws near.

At the Young Warriors Ground in Berbice, Lower Corentyne will have the privilege of tackling the in-form Essequibo who has been as rampant in the 50 overs

as they have been in the 3-Dayers.

Led by leading wicket-taker Anthony Adams, the Guyana Jaguars leftarm spinner, Essequibo will rally around their side which features Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Kemol Savory, Kevon Boodie, Ricardo Adams and others.

Lower Corentyne on the other hand is expected to field a good team and give the Essequibians a ramp with

T

the likes of; Jonathan Foo, Kandasammy Surujnarine, Raun Johnson and others.

Georgetown could see skipper Leon Johnson and opener Robin Bacchus returning to the side which has been playing below-par in the 50 over format. They will face East Bank at the Bourda Ground with skipper Ronaldo Ali Mohamed, Sherfane Rutherford, Steven Jacobs a few of their marquee players to watch out for.

West Demerara, led by Guyana Jaguars selectee Akshaya Persaud will want to rebound following their hammering at the hands of Essequibo in the next round as they face East Coast at Everest Ground.

The Bush Lot Ground in Berbice will see West Berbice and Upper Corentyne locking horns with both franchises looking to wrap up this year’s competition on a high note. All matches are scheduled to bowl off at 9:00hs.

A

lready suspended following an incident at a bar in Perth, English batsman Ben Duckett will not take part against West Indies A in 2018.

Ben Duckett has been dropped for England Lions’ tour of the West Indies next year, while Ben Foakes and Mason Crane are set to be involved.

Duckett was already suspended after he was also fined by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for pouring a drink over the head of a senior player – reported to be James Anderson – in an incident at a Perth bar.

Duckett was due to face a Cricket Australia XI in a warm-up game before the third Ashes Test, instead, the 23-year-old batsman will now sit out the Lions’ tour against a West Indies A, starting in February 2018.

Foakes and Crane – both members of the Ashes tour

squad who surrendered the urn to Australia amid a 3-0 deficit – will take part in the four-day and one-day series, with Keaton Jennings to captain the Lions.

“We have selected a total of 22 players for these two series in the West Indies, to ensure we gain the most value in terms of assessing players in both firstclass and one-day cricket,” said national selector James Whitaker.

“Haseeb Hameed, Jamie Porter and Toby RolandJones are all available again after injuries - Jamie and Toby after working exceptionally hard on the ECB’s Pace Programme over the last couple of months.

“Sam Curran missed out on the Lions training camp in Australia but he has also been training hard, under the supervision of Surrey’s strength and conditioning coaches, before going out to play T20 cricket in New Zealand. (Sportsmax)

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

thursDAY, december 21, 2017

B

irmingham is set to be officially announced as the host of the 2022 Commonwealth Games on Thursday.

It was the only interested city to submit a bid before the original 30 September deadline but was deemed “not fully compliant” by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF).

The CGF then gave rivals until 30 November to apply.

Earlier this month the CGF

reiterated it needed “further clarification on issues” before choosing a host city.

But the BBC understands Birmingham has now finally prevailed in its attempt to stage the £750m showpiece, the most expensive sports event in Britain since the London 2012 Olympics.

The bidding process has been beset with problems, with the South African city of Durban originally awarded the

Games in 2015 before being stripped of the event in March because it did not meet the CGF criteria.

Birmingham beat Liverpool in September to be Britain’s candidate city and the bid subsequently received government backing.

As part of its bid, Birmingham has proposed to create the UK’s largest permanent athletics stadium, supplemented by four indoor arenas.

Weightlifting would be held at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall under the city’s plans

(BBC Sport)

Den Amstel’s Coach O’Neal Yearwood receives the sponsorship cheque from GT Beer Brand Manager Jeff Clements in the presence of other club officials and Banks DIH Managers

E

ight teams from West Demerara Football Association will battle for the top prize of $400,000 as Den Amstel Football Club has joined forced with Banks DIH under their GT Beer brand to host a year end tournament.

The straight knock out tournament which kicks-off on Friday was launched on Wednesday at Banks DIH head office at Thirst Park.

The tournament is slated to conclude on January 7 and will be graced by teams such as Young Achievers, Eagles United, Golden Warriors, Stewartville, Pouderoyen, Uitvlugt and Wales United.

Friday’s fixture pits Achievers a g a i n s t Eagles from 18:30h followed by the hosts battling Warriors from 21:00h.

After a few days off for Christmas, the action will r e sume on December 26 with Pouderoyen facing Stewartville from 18:00h after which Uitvlugt engage Wales from 20:30h.

Coach of Den Amstel, O’Neal Yearwood expressed his gratitude for the support of Banks DIH and feels that the tournament will give teams in the association who are not part of the on-going national tournament a chance to showcase their skills and worth.

More so, Yearwood felt his side stand a significant chance to walking away with championship hon-

ours despite their Elite League players not being able to play. According to the coach, his confidence stems from his unit having a wide cross-section of play-

ers who can muster a stern challenge.

A d d i t i o n a l l y , Communications Manager of Banks DIH Limited, Troy Peters stated the entity is extremely pleased to be in support of the venture under their GT Beer brand which he termed as the “beer of the season.”

Peters added the tournament adds to their support of year-end activities and development of football with tournaments in full swing in Berbice and Linden.

“We will continue to support football despite the negatives that we see happening around football at this time. As a good corporate citizen, we are here to support community initiatives and this is one for the people of Den Amstel,” Peters expressed.

A s i d e from the lucrative first place prize, $200,000 will be awarded to the second placed team while $100,000 and $50, 000 will be given to third and fourth place finishers respectively.

Metro’s Assistant Manager Ariff Baksh (left) hands over the symbolic cheque and the towering Metro trophy to Retired Justice Cecil Kennard

F

or the 9th consecutive year, the feature race of the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club’s (KMTC) Boxing Day extravaganza will be sponsored the Metro Office and Computer Supplies chain of stationery stores.

Since 2009, the Ramnarayan and the Kharag families have been committed to providing the stakes and cash prize for the feature race of the Boxing Day card in honour of Deo Kharag who is a former president of the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club at Bush Lot Farm.

Kharag, who is the father of current president of Metro Office and School Supplies, Ron Ramnarayan was at the helm of the turf club from 1955 until he migrated to the USA in the 1970s but remained involved in the club’s work.

At the confirmation ceremony at Metro’s Quamina street branch on Wednesday, Assistant Manager Ariff

Baksh presented the sponsorship cheque and winning trophy for the feature race of the day to Justice Cecil Kennard and stated that his company is once again pleased to be associated with the event.

In response, current President of the KMTC, Justice Cecil Kennard stated that the history of the Kharag and Ramnarayan families and the KMTC has lead to the realization of the new initiative which is now a tradition that is now in its ninth year. Kennard, who spoke of the importance of sponsorship to sustain any sport was also high in praise for the commitment shown by Metro to not only the Boxing Day card but to the other KMTC events throughout the year.

The Boxing Day Horse Racing card has been a Guyanese tradition since 1936 and turfites from Guyana and further afield look forward to the wholesome family entertainment.

In all, there are seven events cared for the day with the feature race being for horses classified C and lower battling over a distance of nine furlongs for the top prize of $1,000,000 and the Metro trophy.

Entries so far for the top prize include defending champion, Golden Blue Echo, Princess she is not, Goodwill Boy, Lady Budapest, Brave Sky, Honey Flow, Just Call Me Boss, Storm Bird and the unbeaten Vera Finally.

There is a total of 60 horses that are registered for the one-day of competitive races which begins from 13:00h on Tuesday at the turf club at Bush Lot farm on the Corentyne Coast.

Other events carded for the day are L-Non Winners, F and Lower, Two-Year-old Guyana Bred Open, L Class Open, H and Lower, and J3 and K and L Lower.

Admission is $1,200 for adults and $600 for children.

sports

thursDAY, december 21, 2017 | www.guyanatimesgy.com

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T

he Guyana National Association For Women’s Football (NAFW), a member of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), held their election on Saturday, December 16 where Andrea Johnson has been elected president, according to a press release.

Johnson, a former Secretary of the said association, replaced Charmine Wade who did not seek reelection in the vote, which was held at the GFF’s Boardroom.

The release further stated, that following the NAFW

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Andrea Johnson

election, Johnson said among her priority areas is the development of women’s football in the hinterland: “I’m enthusiastic about the newly-elected Executive in terms of working with the Federation for the betterment and development of

women’s football in Guyana.

The areas that we will be looking at are the outlying areas of Guyana – Regions 1, 7, 8 and 9 – because we feel that for too long those areas have been exempted from major football development.”

The newly-elected president added, “we know those areas have very talented persons when it comes to sport and women’s football, in particular, so we will seek to maximize this,” president Johnson stated.

Other elected mem-

bers of the executive with a two-year mandate include First Vice President, Magazene Stewart; Second Vice President, Ayla Kenyon; Secretary, Rowena Williams; Treasurer, Denneze Lovell; Assistant Secretary/Treasurer Samantha Johnson and Lawrence Griffith, who is an Ordinary Member. Other positions to be voted on are Assistant Secretary and two additional Ordinary Members, nominated members who were unavoidably

absent. These will be voted on at a later date as allowed in the NAWF’s Constitution.

The NAFW’s primary mandate is to develop women’s football in Guyana. To date, they have executed projects including the ‘Women’s Revival Football Tournament’ and partnered with theGFF to execute the Women’s Development League and CONCACAF Women’s Football Day, the media release ended.

NOTICE With regards to the notice of Sunday October 8th, 2017 placed by one Raymond Anthony also known as Raymond Ramos who is claiming prescriptive rights to both properties at 3128 Buttercup Place, South Ruimveldt Park and 469 Kiskadee Drive, South Ruimveldt Gardens, take notice that this claim by Raymond Anthony/Ramos is totally false and incorrect. The only person who has absolute rights and interest to both properties is Mr. Sydney Bunbary.

Player (MVP) of the tournament and was also handsomely rewarded.

Although the tournament was a countrywide affair, Georgetown teams finished in the top three spots. Spartans, that finished with 75 wins, eight less than the champions, settled for the second place trophy and $250,000 cash prize.

Meanwhile, third place finishers TNT, pocketed

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Mackeson Brand Manager Sean Abel (centre left) with the ‘Kings of Domino’ Gangster domino team

O

ne of the largest dominoes competition to have ever been played in Guyana, the Mackeson “King of the Domino” which was won

by Gangster Domino team was deemed a resounding success by organizers and sponsors.

The intense action which was spread across the three counties (Essequibo, Demerara and Berbice) including areas such as Linden and Bartica, was very pleasing to the Guyana National Dominoes

Federation (GNDF) and Ansa McAl. Inaugural champions of the nationwide competition, “Gangster” domino team, are now $1million richer after receiving their grand cash MVP Gavin Towler (left) is elated to receive his spoils prize at the Ansa Mcal’s head office of the championship winat Beterverwagting during ning team, Gangster, was $100,000 and the correa simple presentation on deemed the Most Valuable sponding accolade.

Tuesday. Gavin Towler

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

thursDAY, december 21, 2017

Kiwis rain on Hetmyer, Beaton debut – hosts ease to 5-wicket win

Legendary West Indies batsman Chris Gayle presenting Shimron Hetmyer with his West Indies ODI cap at the start of play in the first match against New Zealand

T

he early bird often gets the worm, but there is an equally good chance of nocturnal birds catching it. There are also significantly different approaches to ODI cricket. New Zealand are a disciplined team, insistent on doing the basics right. West Indies rely on their strength: a batting approach that revolves around attempting to find the boundary more often than gaps through the field. The longer the duration of a game, the better the chances of discipline trumping aggression.

West Indies weren’t able to sustain their approach for long enough, but New Zealand did as they limited the visitors to 248 for 9, and then chased it down clinically in the first ODI in Whangarei.

Doug Bracewell, on his return to international cricket after pleading guilty to a drink-driving offence, picked up 4 for 55 from eight overs, and legspinning ODI debutant Todd Astle finished with 3 for 33. New Zealand’s openers, George Worker and Colin Munro then blazed away with a 108-run stand off just 100 balls to effectively kill the game on a surface that got progressively better to bat on.

Chris Gayle and Evin Lewis began cautiously, playing out three successive maidens. The first five overs produced four runs. Both batsmen soon found their hitting rhythm, combining for five fours and a six in a 40-run opening stand. At no point did they consider singles as a scoring option.

Bracewell then had Gayle caught

behind off his first ball. A thick inside edge had Shai Hope two balls later.

West Indies enjoyed their best period of batting thereafter, as Shimron Hetmyer and Lewis picked their deliveries to score off. Unsurprisingly, both batsmen were in most control when they were attacking. Hetmyer, though, failed to pick a googly from Astle in the 24th over, chipping a catch to long-off, an indicator that Hetmyer hasn’t found his batting tempo just yet.

As has happened so often on their tour already, West Indies’ middle order was again done in by a combination of pace and the lack of it. Lockie Ferguson, generating 145kmph speeds, had Jason Mohammed caught on the crease and chopping onto his stumps. Jason Holder was caught at gully, a one-handed stunn e r from Ross Taylor to his right, off a legcutter f r o m Bracewell.

W e s t Indies had quickly slumped from 103 for 2 to 134 for 5.

After a 43-run partnership that stabilised West Indies, Lewis misread a googly, missing a sweep

Debutant Ronsford Beaton accepts his ODI cap from former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop

off a full delivery on 76. Umpire Shamshuddin, it seemed, misread the variation too, as replays showed the ball would have missed off stump. West Indies didn’t have a review left.

Rovman Powell displayed admirable patience, biding his time to carry West Indies to 50 overs.

In Kesrick Williams’ company, he struck a belligerent 50-ball 59, which included two f o u r s and

Doug Bracewell struck twice in his first over (Getty photo)

four sixes.

N e w Zealand’s top order, led by openers Worker and Munro, showed up West Indies’ woefully under-par total.

West Indies’ seamers bowled two lengths: too short or too full, struggling to find the perfect length in between. Both batsmen laid into short and wide deliveries, scoring a combined 47 runs square on the off side.

West Indies, though, hit back quickly with wickets in consecutive overs. Munro lobbed a catch to

short cover in the 17th over, beaten slightly for pace off the bowling of Williams. Worker then misread the trajectory of a dart from Ashley Nurse, missing a cut that was far too close to his body.

With no lateral movement on an even surface, conditions were perfect for batting. Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor looked largely unflustered in a 57-run partnership at 4.12 per over.

One of

Williamson’s strengths is his ability to rotate strike through third man with an angled bat, but with the line close to off stump, that stroke becomes risky. He chopped one such delivery from Jason Holder onto his stumps on 38.

Taylor stayed circumspect through his innings, displaying a keenness to take New Zealand home. His unbeaten 76-ball 49 included just two fours, but like New Zealand’s way, it got the job done.

(ESPN Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD West Indies Innings (50 Overs Maximum) C Gayle c Latham b Bracewell 22 E Lewis lbw b Astle 76 S Hope c Latham b Bracewell 0 S Hetmyer c Ferguson b Astle 29 J Mohammed b Ferguson 9 J Holder c Taylor b Bracewell 8 R Powell c Williamson b Bracewell 59 A Nurse lbw b Astle 2 R Beaton c Latham b Ferguson 3 K Williams not out 16 S Gabriel not out 0 Extras (lb-6 w-18) 24 Total (for 9 wickets, 50 overs) 248 Fall of wickets: 1-40 C. Gayle,2-41 S. Hope,3-103 S. Hetmyer,4-117 J. Mohammed,5-134 J. Holder,6-177 E. Lewis,7-182 A. Nurse,8-201 R. Beaton,9-246 R. Powell Bowling Southee 10 - 2 - 49 – 0 (w-3), Boult 10 - 2 - 48 – 0 (w-4), Ferguson 10 - 0 - 49 – 2 (w-3), Bracewell 8 - 0 - 55 – 4 (w-1), Astle 10 - 1 - 33

– 3 (w-1), Munro 2 - 0 - 8 - 0 New Zealand Innings (Target 249 from 50 overs) G Worker b Nurse 57 C Munro c Nurse b Williams 49 K Williamson b Holder 38 R Taylor not out 49 T Latham lbw b Nurse 17 H Nicholls c S. Hope b Holder 17 T Astle not out 15 Extras (lb-2 w-5) 7 Total (for 5 wickets, 46 overs) 249 Fall of wickets: 1-108 C. Munro,2-118 G. Worker,3-175 K. Williamson,4-201 T. Latham,5-230 H. Nicholls Did not bat: D. Bracewell, T. Southee, L. Ferguson, T. Boult Bowling Gabriel 10-0-57-0 (w1), Beaton 9-1-42-0 (w-2), Holder 9-1-52-2, Williams 5-0-18-1, Nurse 10-0-55-2 (w-1), Mohammed 2-013-0, Powell 1-0-10-0 (w-1) Result: New Zealand won by 5 wickets

Assuria assures multiple golf tournaments in 2018

By Clifton Ross

G

olf sponsor Assuria Insurance have signaled their intentions to host numerous major tournaments in 2018, while working closely with the newly elected executives of the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC), according to General Manager Yogindra Arjune.

Arjune told Guyana Times Sport on Thursday during an interview that he was confident that new LGC President Aleem Hussain and his new team can take the fraternity to newer

Assuria Insurance General Manager Yogindra Arjune

heights. He said it was important for both entities to continue their relationship and share inputs which will help to push the sport faster.

“With the new management, I see there are a lot of experienced guys onboard. I know Aleem for a while and he’s passionate about projects that he’s on and I think the new panel will bring something new and we will try to give our input and support their vision,” said Arjune.

The General Manager noted that the company has

seen the progress which golf has made over the years and as such they’re willing to do more major tournaments in 2018, hinting that Assuria could possibly stage a premier open tournament as part of their yearly activities.

He also highlighted that due to Assuria’s demographic spread, it is possible that the company will be able to reel in more overseas golfers from countries that are affiliated to the company, thus creating a widening the international bride between Guyana and other golf-play-

ing countries.

Assuria is an international company and we have companies in Suriname and in Trinidad with small offices across different territories. With us playing a bigger role now we will invite our sister companies who can host tournaments and become members of the LGC; where there will assist financially. So we will help get the sport out to the younger kids and to the schools and assist in way to get them more interested”, Arjune explained.

Concluding his inter-

view, Arjune confirmed that it is likely his company will host more competitions next year, with more overseas golfers billed for their events. “We have done small sponsorships before and now that we think the golf club is going in the right direction. So we will now want to have a tournament that Assuria is maybe the main sponsor like Assuria Open to attract overseas golfers and if not contribute wholly, we will contribute in any way to make the sport more popular,” he ended.

thursDAY, december 21, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

23

Banks Village Cup off to rousing start – Victoria in for triple treat tonight

From left: Banks DIH Brand Manager Errol Neslon, Organisers Esan Griffith and Dennis Reid along with Banks Communications Manager Troy Peters and Special Events Brand Manager Mortimer Stewart

T

he inaugural Banks Beer Village Cup commenced on Tuesday evening at the Victoria Community Centre Ground with three exciting matches which saw Tigerbay, Mocha and Plaisance securing vital wins to progress to the quarter-finals.

Tigerbay’s 3-0 rout of Liliendaal came off the heels of marksmen Manasseh Primo (7th), Darien Dickson (18th) and Deon Alfred (29th).

Mocha edged East Ruimveldt 5-4 on sudden death penalty kicks after their match ended 1-1. Micheal Charkes had opened the scoring in the 17th but four minutes later Travis Blaze found the equalizer for East Ruimveldt.

More so, Plaisance whipped Sophia 3-0 with Vincent Thomas scoring a brace (17th & 79th) and received support from Akeem Thomas (4th).

Matches will continue this evening at the aforementioned venue with Pouderoyen in action against Kitty from 18:00h then Alexander Village battling Stewartville from 20:00h. The final match of the night pits Stabroek

and Beterverwagting from 22:00h.

Meanwhile, at a press briefing on Wednesday, the tournament’s title sponsor confirmed their partnership with the event.

Communications Manager Troy Peters stated, “we are proud to be on board this venture and it aids us in helping football being played throughout Guyana and we look forward to an exciting tournament.”

Organiser, Esan Griffith expressed his gratitude for the support of the company and felt the tournament had a productive start and fans can be assured of more riveting action. Griffith also explained the idea behind the tournament was to bring football back to its grass roots and given community teams a chance to showcase their talents.

The tournament which will see the winning team going home with $800,000 at the grand final which is set for December 30. Apart from the winner’s purse, the second placed side will pocket $400,000 with $200,000 set to go the third placed team and $100,000 to the fourth placed finisher.

The marksmen from Tiger Bay (left) and Sophia after their games on the opening night

THURsDAY, december 21, 2017

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Pg 22

Ronsford Beaton impressed on his bowling debut with tight lines and a fierce short ball

(Getty Photo)

Kiwis rain on Hetmyer, Beaton debut – hosts ease to 5-wicket win Shimron Hetmyer showed an array of shots on debut

Commonwealth Games 2022 go to Birmingham

Pg 20

Weightlifting would be held at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall under the city’s plans

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