Guyanatimes 6 march 2018

GTT announces free P2 Internet for public schools

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

Issue No. 3494

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Tuesday, March 6, 2018

Guyana Stores ordered to pay over $3B in outstanding corporation tax

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Man who P8 robbed cop jailed for 50 months Preying on bank P11 customers

Banks need to monitor staff, CCTV footage – Crime Chief Page 9

…after CCJ rules in favour of GRA ...still owes hundreds of millions to NICIL

Uitvlugt flood victims assess losses at $100M

Page 3

50 schools participate in biennial STEAM fair Page 12

Helena Primary School proudly displays their project entry for the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) fair, which was held on Monday. Their project, which is titled “Promoting Recycling in the Classroom”, makes use of entirely non-biodegradable materials which would often be thrown away or left as litter. The imaginative students came up with a way to create plants, vases, pencil holders, garbage bins, chalk boards and even a model of their school out of plastic bottles, juice boxes, corks and cardboard

Police accused of facilitating cattle rustling Page in Berbice 14

Page Govt mulls 7 stripping gun licensing power from Police

Region P2 10 records highest child abuse cases Banks DIH P12 assists WCD flood victims

Magistrate throws out P10 rape case against former REO

Teacher P13 endures 5-month wait for wages …as GTU pledges to continue advocacy for better teaching conditions

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tuesDAY, march 6, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

GTT announces free Internet for public schools

…at launch of Innov8 Technology Summit

L

ocal telephone company GTT has pledged to provide free internet services to virtually all public schools across Guyana.

This announcement was made by the GTT’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Justin Nedd, at the launch of Innov8 Summit – GTT’s technology Expo -- which will be hosted at the Marriott from March 24-27.

The Innov8 Summit, first and largest event of its kind to be held here, is aimed at promoting and developing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) in Guyana.

Nedd disclosed that the GTT has commitment to plugging some $18 million into the Innov8 Initiative Fund; and of that amount, $8 million will be

GTT CEO Justin Nedd, addressing the gathering at Monday’s launch of the Innov8 Summit

dedicated to STEM Guyana to boost its continued efforts at training youths in coding and robotics. Another $3 million will go towards the benefit of the University of Guyana (UG).

Under this initiative, several schools across the country would benefit from free internet service. The first three schools to benefit would

be the Lusignan Primary on the East Coast of Demerara; Sophia Primary in Greater Georgetown, and the Paradise Primary on the ECD. Nedd has said he is eager to work along with the ministries of Education and Public Telecommunications to have this initiative realised.

“There are over 200 prima-

ry schools across Guyana, and what I’ve seen come across my desk (are) requests to sponsor a modem or a month’s free internet, and we will do it. But I want us to think larger than that, and really provide the internet to the youths at their earlier stages.

“So we’re certainly looking forward to partnering with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Public Telecommunications, and we will provide what facilities we have – be it fibre, or it might be copper – but we’re very much committed to the cause,” Nedd told reporters.

Nedd has said that while GTT has had tertiary discussions with the relevant ministries, this would not stop the company from reaching out to schools and pushing on with the initiative. He added that over the next couple of weeks, the company would be work-

ing to have internet service set up at the three schools already identified.

At Monday’s launch of the Innov8 Technology Summit, it was noted that the Innov8 Summit will be held in collaboration with STEM Guyana, and will be held in two segments.

Part one of the Innov8 Summit will see a Technology Expo being held on March 24 and March 25. Organisers say the event promises a diverse display of technology, innovations and gadgets created by local and international companies through hands-on robotics, online gaming, a gaming tournament, animation, smart gadgets, a smart home, and much more.

Part two, on the other hand, is the Business Forum, which is slated for March 27 and will feature major international speakers from Microsoft, Google and other industry trail-blazer.

Nedd says the goal of both events is to showcase the diversity of technology and its impact on all spheres of life in Guyana. It is an opportunity to display the innovations and gadgets created by some of the best and brightest players in Guyana’s technology arena.

The Innov8 Summit is additionally an ‘open house’ which is expected to wow visitors as they experience all the innovation GTT has to offer.

The local telecommunications company displays technology possibilities available in ways never before seen.

Meanwhile, the Business Forum will feature GTT’s newest enterprise solutions, host local and international technology and business leaders, and chart a path for the development of ICT (Information, Communication and Technology) in the business and finance arena.

Region 10 records highest child abuse cases …CCPA Director calls for urgent ‘change’ in adults’ behaviours

T

he Upper DemeraraBerbice community known officially as Region 10 has recorded the highest cases of child abuse for 2017 -- some 22.1 per cent of the country’s recorded total.

This demographic is followed by Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) with 20.6 per cent of the recorded total; and Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), with 17.6 per cent thereof.

This disclosure has been made by Director of the Child Care and Protection Agency

(CCPA), Ann Greene, at the recently held special meeting with religious organisations in Guyana -- at the Umana Yana in Kingston, Georgetown.

Greene has said that the most common form of reported child abuse is neglect, for which Region Ten has recorded the highest score. While regions One, Eight and Nine did not record any child neglect cases, those regions recorded high rates of child sexual abuse.

“All the regions have recorded (child) sexual abuse, so

it’s (a phenomenon occurring) right across the country. But if you look at where the hurt is for children, it’s in the home.

In the place where they should be loved the most, they are being hurt. Mothers are the main perpetrators, and fathers,” Greene explained.

She noted that these statistics are not reflective of an increase in cases of child abuse, but are rather attributed to the multimedia child abuse awareness campaign that was launched by the CCPA last year.

“There are more channels to (facilitate reporting), and persons are more willing to talk about child abuse; but there is still too much silence, particularly on childhood sexual abuse, which is done behind closed doors, and victims are without a voice,” Greene is quoted by the Department of Public Information as saying.

The CCPA Director cited an urgent need for ‘change’ in adult behaviours and attitudes towards children. The Social Protection Ministry, she reiterated, cannot do it alone, hence

CCPA Director Ann Greene

the need for partnerships at the grassroots level in order to prevent child abuse and pro-

mote child well-being.

The Childcare and Protection Agency is responsible for making timely interventions in matters concerning children. This includes any action that is deemed necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of children; or that prevents, reduces and alleviates the effects of the abuse and neglect of children by offering effective services to which their rights entitle them.

The public is being urged to help abused children, or report any suspected cases by contacting the ministry’s hotline number: 227-0979.

news

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tuesDAY, march 6, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, March 6 – 05:00h-06:30h and Wednesday, March 7 – 09:00h-10:30h.

Uitvlugt flood victims assess losses at $100M R

By Rupdai Seenaraine

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, March 6 – 07:10h-08:40h and Wednesday, March 7 – 07:45h-09:15h.

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

WEATHER TODAY

Weather: Light rain showers and lightly cloudy skies will prevail, with sunny conditions in the late morning hours.

Light to partly cloudy skies are expected in the evening, with overall temperatures expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly to North-easterly between 1.78 metres and 7.15 metres.

High Tide: 07:16h and 19:39h reaching maximum heights of 2.65 metres and 2.55 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 13:12h reaching a minimum height of 0.58 metre.

esidents of Uitvlugt on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD) have assessed at some $100 million their losses following the phenomenal spring tide that breached the sea defence structure and invaded their community last Friday.

This was revealed by the Chairman of the Tuschen/ Uitvlugt Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), Vishal Ambedkar, who explained that this sum included the cost of damage to infrastructure.

When this newspaper visited the community on Monday, the floodwaters had subsided and some persons had returned to their homes, On Monday, the relief centre for flood victims set up at the Uitvlugt Secondary School

has said the Opposition is working with a three-fold mandate which includes supporting the Government agencies, completing an assessment of the damages, and engaging the stakeholders of Government in relation to relief efforts.

He and the Uitvlugt/ Tuschen Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) have tallied the estimated losses of Region 3 residents and have sent their findings to Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson.

“There will be need for financial assistance based on our assessment, so that persons can have their livelihoods restored,” the MP told this publication.

Ali also stated that a letter which provided an update on the flooding, together with a list of emergency actions which should be taken

Massive waves hit the Uitvlugt sea defence with blinding force on Friday last

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was closed, and class sessions were back to normal. However, a similar relief centre set up at the village health centre was still open, and residents who were unable to return to their homes were using it.

Speaking with this publication during the visit, Ambedkar estimated that by the week’s end the NDC would be able to make a complete assessment of the immediate needs of affected persons. He explained that the flood had caused a lot of “distress” to the residents.

The NDC chairman noted that while temporary sea defence works are ongoing, should another high tide of that magnitude occur, the areas would again be flooded.

“We hope that the ministry would look at a longterm solution to the sea defence in not only this area, but throughout the coastline,” Ambedkar said.

While the resources of the NDC are limited, there will be an emergency meeting today to request another $1 million for a clean-up exercise.

“It is necessary at this point in time that we get as much help as we can from the Central Government to address their concerns,” Ambedkar added.

Presently, the seawalls have been barricaded with sandbags, but villagers are afraid that the tide will rise again in the future.

The Public Infrastructure Ministry had revealed plans to improve the sea defence structure earlier this week. Action will be taken after a meeting is conducted between the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and NDC members in relation to the rebuilding of the infrastructure in the area.

Member of Parliament (MP) Mohammed Irfaan Ali, geographical representative for the People’s Progressive Party,

to assist residents at the earliest opportunity, was sent to Minister Patterson.

Guyana Times saw a copy of the letter, which highlighted that the Tuschen-Uitvlugt area had received immense damage, and that many other villages in the area had suffered enormously from the flooding, thus damages should be assessed there as well. The villages mentioned included Hague, Cornelia Ida, Anna Catherina, Leonora and Stewartville.

The letter also stated that there should be imme-

The Tuschen/Uitvlugt NDC centre

diate works conducted to elevate the sea defence structure by using rip-rap and repairing the damaged sections. The Opposition geographical representative also urged the Minister to examine the NDC’s assessment report, so as to assist those who would’ve lost their livelihoods.

On Friday, some 300 residents woke up to find their properties inundated as the

waters of the Atlantic high tide vaulted the sea defence structure and invaded the community, demolishing fences, confiscating bridges, and destroying furniture and other household appliances as the ocean lay siege to a beleaguered community, forcing persons to leave their homes and take refuge in relief centres set up at various locations in the communities.

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guyanatimesgy.com

tuesDAY, march 6, 2018

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

Protecting our coastline H

undreds of families along the West Coast of Demerara have been affected by the recent high tides, overtopping and breached sea defences. Following this most recent tidal surge, there should be no lingering doubts as to whether rising sea levels, caused by climate change, are threatening Guyana’s coastal communities.

Despite the presence of defensive walls, Guyana’s coast is still highly vulnerable to flooding and now, more than ever, coastal residents are facing the reality that sea level rise is changing their communities and their lives. There have been stronger tidal surges, more frequent flooding, and saltwater intrusion into farmlands.

While the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) and other local authorities battle to cope with the aftermath, they are advising residents against erecting structures that block drainage networks or are near sea defences, even as calls are being made to move the capital city and other densely populated areas away from the coast.

Apart from the existing sea defence structures, mangroves are also considered as a primary sea defence. The role of coastal mangroves in Guyana is to dissipate or reduce wave energy along the coastline. They not only complement existing structures but help with environmental conservation and the cost of maintaining hard structures. As in many coastal regions around the world, mangroves also provide a natural defence against the raging tide and rising sea levels.

As recent as last month, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute’s Mangrove Department issued a statement acknowledging that this unique ecosystem was threatened by the cyclic erosion/accretion that occurred along Guyana’s coastline. The erosion process, which occurs in 20 to 30-year cycles, is impacting several naturally regenerated and planted restoration sites at Hope Beach, Wellington Park, Greenfield and several villages along the West Coast of Demerara.

NAREI also pointed to a study completed by Professors Antony and Gardel in 2013, which indicated that the dynamics of the Guyana coastline were strongly hinged on pulses of mud abundance or scarcity embedded in multi-year cycles of mud-bank activity and inter-bank phases. The cyclic mud-bank phases regulate mangrove regeneration by providing a substrate for extremely rapid and large-scale colonisation from older mangrove colonies and vigorous tree growth. Erosion, therefore, can be caused by this natural process and by human or manmade interventions. For example, building structures beyond the seawall/within the sea defence area alters or disrupts the natural movement of sediments, hence, resulting in erosion.

While mangroves are subjected to cyclic erosion, studies conducted on Guyana’s coastal mangroves have proven that a mangrove bandwidth of 50 metres to 80 metres is required to reduce a 3-metre high wave to approximately 0.01 metre. In the areas where mangroves are not present, severe overtopping occurs (along Kingston and Sheriff Streets) which results in increased cost for maintenance works over a period of time.

According to Ranata Robertson, Coastal Engineer at the University of Guyana, it is important for Guyana to conduct ongoing research to determine the movement of these mud banks and the associated erosion cycle. Studies to map and model coastline retreat and advance are critical areas of research that need to be integrated into a long-term coastal zone management programme. Collaborative studies have been ongoing with the University of Guyana Civil Engineering Department, NAREI’s Mangrove Restoration Programme and Sea & River Defence Division to better understand and model this cyclic process.

The Mangrove Action Committee, a volunteer group under NAREI, identified a number of interventions to be implemented during 2018 that will seek to address these issues. They include public awareness and education programmes on the importance of mangroves, targeting youths through environmental clubs, and engaging the relevant Government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

It should be noted that mangroves are protected under the Forestry Act, and as such, it is illegal to destroy mangroves without permission from the Guyana Forestry Commission.

While coastal flooding is by no means isolated to Guyana, ignoring scientific evidence and failing to adapt and prepare will mean lives and livelihoods will continue to be at risk.

Covent Garden Secondary showcasing their project titled "Green Energy" for the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) fair, which was held on Monday

When 2 elephants fight, the grass gets crushed Dear Editor, This old adage aptly describes what is reportedly going on in the sugar industry, as indicated ad infinitum, including in the media, which included reports of open, unnecessary and destructive discord between

the different elements and compositions of the Board of Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo).

If we cannot get our act together at the leadership level of this major corporation, then how on earth can we expect the rank and

file, the thousands of sugar workers, to respond positively to whatever it is we need to do to restore the viability of the sugar industry?

As someone with a lifelong interest and attachment to the sugar industry, I beg our leaders to quick-

ly get their act together and start positive pursuit of what is right and necessary.

Time is of the essence; can we please stop bickering and start acting pragmatically?

Sincerely, Nowrang Persaud

GAWU should call a national strike Dear Editor, The late President Dr Cheddi Jagan was demonised by the People’s National Congress during the 1970s for inciting strikes in the sugar belt. Today, however, the PNC-led coalition Administration stands as a history lesson for our youths, as this very same PNC continues in its old ways of encroaching on sugar workers’ welfare, dogging and harassing them over their legally due severance entitlements, and demonstrating a consistent failure to make adequate provision for them as the sugar industry continues to bottom out.

Today marks just over a month since the release of the first part of the retrenched sugar workers’ severance. It also marks the same period over which the coalition administration has knowingly and wilfully chosen to disregard, and continue in the act of breaking, Guyana’s laws governing the full payment of severance to these workers. I have written, and will continue to write, in protest about this issue, because I have to accept my responsibility for their being in office, and will not countenance any of their abuse on sugar workers or whomever.

There is little question that what is being perpetrated by this administration on sug-

ar workers undermines their welfare, threatens their economic survival, and amounts to a clear abuse of governmental powers.

What has become clear is that the administration has mishandled the sugar industry in the worst way possible, and there seems no end or solution in sight for the corporation itself or the sugar workers. The decision to reopen the closed estates for divestment might have been to gain political mileage, but this speaks to the gross mishandling of the sugar industry in its entirety, without any sound plan or consideration for the severe economic impact such decisions would likely have.

One of the major observations which should guide reliance on the sugar industry as an economically viable concern is that much, if not all, of GuySuCo’s arable land has been exhausted, so that there can be little expectation of higher yields that could boost the industry’s profitability either now or in the future.

On the particular issue of the sale of these estates, it has already been submitted that these estates should not be sold, but instead be contracted out to investors, since any sale of GuySuCo’s land attached to these estates as a going concern will constitute a virtual giveaway of otherwise highly valuable assets, all of which

can be returned to the state for alternative economic activities, or distributed to sugar workers to aid in their adjustment.

With the long-term viability of any of these financially distressed estates already being considered as close to nil, such sales would constitute a virtual rip-off, as investors would invariably convert these lands to capitalize on their real value.

While the opening of these estates may yield some income to sugar workers in the near term, in the long haul, sugar workers can expect to be used as economic pawns until the so-called investors declare that these estates are indeed unsustainable and will have to be shut.

Guyanese, particularly public servants, well know that it is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to manage a family on $100,000/month.

A little contemplation should reveal that it is very likely that quite a few sugar workers will use up their first severance payout well before they receive the second severance payout. In the likely event that many will still be either unemployed or underemployed, they will find themselves and their families in the proverbial no man’s land.

Government’s manipulation of the severance payments is wholly unconsciona-

ble, wrong, illegal, and I would go so far as to say potentially criminal, since it is a willful act which could translate into extreme human suffering, particularly on the children involved.

It is suggested that GAWU and the sugar workers not wait to see what would almost certainly unfold. They should act now, and do what needs to be done to avoid the impending economic disaster that would greet them when their first severance payout is exhausted.

Sugar workers should by now understand that this administration does not care if they live or die, or if their children suffer and punish.

The union should immediately seek redress in the courts, which could include punitive and other damages, along with the allocation of lands for sugar workers at the negotiating table. If there ever was a time for sugar workers to strike, it is now. The union should also call on all sugar workers to engage in a national strike to force this administration to pay their full severance.

The policy makers in this administration are a cruel, vicious lot who do not anymore deserve the support of Guyanese.

Yours faithfully, Craig Sylvester

guyanatimesgy.com

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APNU/AFC is showing signs of dictatorship IAC welcomes reDear Editor At the last statutory meeting of the Regional Democratic Council of Region Six, I rose to highlight that during the PPP’s 23 years in office, no regional councillor of the PPP was a regional contractor with the RDC in Region Six. Now we are seeing not only regional councillors being contractors, but numerous Government officials and party activists of the coalition Government being given contracts. This is replicated across the entire country, I deem this action as corruption of the highest level under the APNU/ AFC coalition Government.

While I was trying to es-

tablish that this Government is a corrupt regime, I was cautioned by the Regional Chairman to rephrase my statement by saying that there are numerous alleged acts of corruption by the Government -- a statement that’s too decent for the description of this Government.

Let us start with the first evidence of corruption: As we enter Berbice, there is the monument site at Palmyra. The minister says that no geo-technical survey was done, and as such, millions were spent and no answers were given as to who and when taxpayers would be refunded their monies, which will be of tremen-

dous benefit to Guyana.

Not so long ago, an investigation was launched into corruption at NCN Berbice Branch. This is also a massive cover-up of corruption by the coalition Government.

The reflective marking of the Corentyne Highway was completed only in January 2018, and the painted lines have already faded. I was made to understand that the paint was purchased by MoPI, charging for high quality paints and purchasing the lowest quality at the same price.

The recent work that is being executed by the Works Services Group of the MoPI

is the worst I have seen for a very long time. The Republic Road (in New Amsterdam) and the East Bank Berbice public road are just a few examples of poor standard and quality. This ministry needs to be investigated now.

NDIA is another agency that needs to be investigated. Millions are being spent to execute works in Region Six. Some works are being done, while some are not being done but contractors are being paid.

Sometimes contractors are paid ten times the cost of the volume of work done.

Sincerely, Zamal Hussain

Beginning of the end Dear Editor, It has been reported in the media that after three years of mismanagement and continuous heavy operating losses, the Government has transferred control of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) -- Guyana’s largest agricultural industry and employer -- from the Ministry of Agriculture to the Ministry of Finance, where it will be managed by the National Industrial and Commercial Investment Limited (NICIL) and its Special Purposes Unit (SPU).

NICIL/SPU has been mandated to ensure that GuySuCo is returned to profitability, and NICIL/SPU has wasted no time in accomplishing this assignment by firing GuySuCo’s long-time chairman, Professor Clive Thomas, and its board of directors, and replacing them with a new board, with Mr Heath-London as the newly appointed Chairman.

The track record of the newly appointed team suggests that they have little or no experience in formulating plans and executing policies to turn around an agriculture-based company in deep financial trouble and plagued with a host of diverse technical, management and agricultural problems.

Nevertheless, it seems that the way forward for GuySuCo is still being determined, particularly with respect to the management of its three operating estates and privatization/leasing/selling of the assets of the remaining four.

Today’s prices show that sugar is being sold on the world market at less than US$0.14/ lb, while it is costing GuySuCo an estimated US$0.40/lb to produce. To eliminate this differential and return GuySuCo to profitability, the cane fields will have to be converted for full-scale mechanization (which is not possible with the existing fields’ layout); improved cane varieties would have to be planted for higher yields of TC/TS; and there would have to be modernization of the manufacturing process and farming equipment for higher production and efficiencies. The existing acreage under cultivation would also have to be increased to reduce overhead costs.

Two major constraints among others have prevented GuySuCo from implementing programmes to return itself to profitability -- lack of timely capital investments to upgrade and diversify its rundown facilities and equipment, and failure to train its person-

nel to acquire the knowledge and skills for diversified manufacturing. This was clearly evident at the Skeldon estate, where an ultra-modern factory was poorly operated and managed, while anticipated cane production increase never materialized to meet the factory’s designed processing capacity.

There was also the half-hearted attempt at field mechanization, and the failed diversification efforts at Wales after the estate had closed.

A loan of $30 billion being sought by NICIL to upgrade the three operating estates (Albion, Blairmont, Uitvlugt) with the intent of returning them to profitability is a ‘pipe dream’ for reasons stated above. SPU will be seeking a loan of about $15 billion to refurbish the four closed estates (Skeldon, Rose Hall, Enmore, Wales) to make them attractive for investors to buy/ lease, as was recommended

by NICIL’s consultant, PwC, based on the premise that to obtain premium prices for the closed estates, they should be presented to investors as going concerns, functional at both the field and factory levels.

This is likely to be a ‘no go’, as investors are aware of the Government’s dilemma and will be looking at the estates

as ‘fire sales’, and then convert their acquired bounty of abandoned sugar lands into real estate development and other financially lucrative deals for quick profitable turnovers (as Houston/Versailles Estates have done) and avoid venturing into sugar manufacturing with limited or no growth and questionable profitability.

It is evident that the Government has lost its way, groping in the dark with no clear coherent plan to return GuySuCo to profitability, nor does it know how to bite the bullet and wind down the industry and find/create jobs for the laid-off workers.

Guyana’s Treasury cannot continue to subsidize GuySuCo indefinitely at the expense of other urgently needed national programmes.

The adverse social and economic effects of laid-off sugar workers will sooner or later spill over into the communities at large. The growing crime rate in Georgetown and other urban areas with high unemployment clearly indicates what could happen when large segments of the society are unemployed/unskilled and are wandering around.

Yours faithfully, Charles Sohan

National flag-carrying airline Dear Editor, As 2020 approaches and expectations of Guyana’s oil production commencement mounts, there is a lot of ‘chit and chatter’ over the usage of anticipated oil revenues by the Guyana Government.

This is healthy expression which, with the exception of bent pessimists and dogmatists, shows that many Guyanese are objective and genuinely wish to see the best outcomes for their country.

One of the areas that I believe should be considered for funding is the re-establishment of a national flag-carrying airline. Those who use air transportation, particularly for travelling in and out of Guyana, can attest to the ransom-like situation Guyanese find themselves in by the limited number of service providers.

As early as 1939, even before Guyana’s Independence,

a national airline was founded by Art Williams and Harry Wendt. The airline, called British Guiana Airways, was a private venture but received subsidies from the Colonial Government at that time.

From 1963, Guyana Airways coined its name, and continued operations until 2001.

There were several factors surrounding the rise and closure of the Guyana Airways Corporation (GAC), which I will not venture to detail here. However, like the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and most other failed corporations, poor management, distortion, and financial irregularities were cited impediments that affected GAC’s viability.

Our two proximate CARICOM neighbours, the Republic of Suriname and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, have both retained their national carriers, albeit

with some adjustments since 1964 and 1961, respectively.

In 1964, Surinaamse Luchtvaart Maatschappij (SLM) – Suriname Airways, which started operations – became, and still is, Suriname’s flag carrier. In 1961, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago acquired 90% shares in the British West Indian Airlines (BWIA), or “Bee Wee”, making it that nation’s national airline. The airline was later incorporated in 2006 as Caribbean Airlines, with a fleet of over 15 aircraft.

Caribbean Airlines has, for years, maintained a monopolistic vice on international air transport on their Guyana leg, much to the disadvantage and quiet displeasure of many Guyanese.

Guyana has seen the entrance and exit of several international carriers, with some big names like DELTA Airlines (USA) and VARIG

(Brazil). Reasons for the vacillating trends among international carriers that attempted to serve Guyana vary.

No one should genuinely dispute the fact that there has been a lingering void of consistent, reliable, respectable and affordable air transportation since the cessation of the GAC. The need for a national airline will not just restore the nation’s pride in that sector, but create the type of competition that would relieve Guyanese travellers of the imposed exorbitant fares of some service providers to and from this destination.

In this regard, it is timely for Government to consider such an investment; either jointly with local stakeholders, or as an independent state entity.

Sincerely, Orette Cutting

establishment of ERC Dear Editor, The Indian Action Committee (IAC) welcomes the official appointment of the ten commissioners of the now reconstituted Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), following their recent swearing by H.E. President David Granger.

This is something that the IAC has repeatedly called for in the past, and which has long been overdue.

Now that the Commission has been re-established, the IAC hopes that the next required step, the election of a chairperson, is expedited.

The IAC, like the rest of Guyana, expects the Commission to begin functioning as soon as possible.

The IAC takes this opportunity to wish the Commissioners the best in their endeavours, and to remind them of the charge given by President Granger regarding the execution of their duties without coward-

ice, malice and prejudice.

The IAC especially congratulates its Executive Member Mr Neaz Subhan, who will be representing the Indo-Guyanese community on the Commission.

The IAC, cognizant of the importance of this Commission for the fostering of harmony in our society, stands ready in support to ensure that its ability to function in the interest of all is not in any way inhibited.

The IAC wishes to remind the general public that it is the official body that represents persons of IndoGuyanese origin; and once the ERC is functioning, the IAC is ready to advocate before the ERC any pertinent issues and concerns brought to the organization by persons within its constituency for redress.

Sincerely, Indian Action Committee

Delinquent private schools

Dear Editor, I have read, with concern, a letter published by sections of the media on March 3rd, 2018 under the caption “Private school or terror camp?” This letter was signed by a “Concerned Parent”.

Editor, allow me opportunity to support the cries of this parent, and also to bring to the attention of the relevant authorities and the general public my own experiences at another private institution located in the heart of Georgetown.

Editor, my daughter once attended a private institution that holds classes from forms one to five. She started the school in the second form, and had moved up to the third form class last September when I was forced to remove her, a few months ago. Editor, my heart trembles as I pen this letter, because the things that my daughter had endured at that institution I would wish on no one’s child.

Dozens upon dozens of homework assignments were usually given, and those had to be submitted either the next day or before the said week was completed.

The children had to reach to school for at least 08:30am in the morning, and had to take mandatory lessons till 4:30pm (16:30h) in the afternoon. This was further worsened by the children having only 20 minutes’ lunch break and absolutely no extracurricular activities such as sports, concerts, or even tours, so as to give them a well-rounded curriculum. Tell me, how can we expect these young minds to stay sane and not become stressed, when all that is forced upon them is school work and more school work?

Bear in mind, Editor, that the mandatory lessons at-

tract a separate fee from the school fee, and was either a few dollars shorter than the school fee; or, in some cases, it was the same thing.

Like the concern shared by the fellow parent in the previous letter, although the Value Added Tax was removed from the school fees, the headmaster still continues to charge parents the 16%, claiming he had not being notified by GRA. If that’s not all, the headmaster of the school, who is a popular TV host, has a horrible attitude towards both the kids and, to some extent, parents.

My daughter was bullied and harassed more than once by teachers of the school, and nothing had been done about it because of the unapproachable manner in which the headmaster usually carries himself.

School should be a second home; however, we can clearly see that these private schools are out to get money, and would achieve that even at the cost of their students’ sanity.

Editor, the Ministry of Education should take swift action before this situation gets further out of hand and results in yet another crisis that would deteriorate an already broken institution. As it is, there are few or no laws at all that monitor how these private schools should operate, hence advantage is being taken by these unscrupulous individuals to profit off the situation at public schools and the desperation of parents for a better education for their children. It is therefore imperative that relevant agencies lobby for these pieces of legislation immediately!

Yours faithfully, Frustrated parent

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By Youki Terada

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any teachers and parents believe that homework helps students build study skills and review concepts learnt in class. Others see homework as disruptive and unnecessary, leading to burnout and turning children off to school. Decades of research show that the issue is more nuanced and complex than most people think: Homework is beneficial, but only to a degree. Students in high school gain the most, while younger children benefit much less.

The US National PTA and the National Education Association support the “10-minute homework guideline” – a nightly 10 minutes of homework per grade level. But many teachers and parents are quick to point out that what matters is the quality of the homework assigned and how well it meets students’ needs, not the amount of time spent on it.

The guideline doesn’t account for students who may need to spend more – or less – time on assignments. In class, teachers can make adjustments to support struggling students, but at home, an assignment that takes one student 30 minutes to complete may take another twice as much time—often for reasons beyond their control. And homework can widen the achievement gap, putting stu-

guyanatimesgy.com

Foundation

dents from low-income households and students with learning disabilities at a disadvantage.

However, the 10-minute guideline is useful in setting a limit: When children spend too much time on homework, there are real consequences to consider.

Small benefits for elementary students As young children begin school, the focus should be on cultivating a love of learning, and assigning too much homework can undermine that goal. And young students often don’t have the study skills to benefit fully from homework, so it may be a poor use of time (Cooper, 1989; Cooper et al, 2006; Marzano & Pickering, 2007). A more effective activity may be nightly reading, especially if parents are involved. The benefits of reading are clear: If students aren’t proficient readers by the end of third

grade, they’re less likely to succeed academically and graduate from high school (Fiester, 2013). For second-grade teacher Jacqueline Fiorentino, the minor benefits of homework did not outweigh the potential drawback of turning young children against school at an early age, so she experimented with dropping mandatory homework. “Something surprising happened: They started doing more work at home,” Fiorentino writes. “This inspiring group of eight-year-olds used their newfound free time to explore subjects and topics of interest to them.” She encouraged her students to read at home and offered optional homework to extend classroom lessons and help them review material.

study skills necessary to delve deeply into a topic – and to retain what they learn – they also benefit more from homework. Nightly assignments can help prepare them for scholarly work, and research shows that homework can have moderate benefits for middle school students (Cooper et al., 2006).

Recent research also shows that online Math homework, which can be designed to adapt to students’ levels of understanding, can significantly boost test scores (Roschelle et al, 2016).

There are risks to assigning too much, however: A 2015 study found that when middle school students were assigned more than 90 to 100 minutes of daily homework, their Math and science test scores began to decline (Fernández-Alonso, SuárezÁlvarez, & Muñiz, 2015).

Crossing that upper limit can drain student motivation and focus. The researchers recommend that “homework should

present a certain level of challenge or difficulty, without being so challenging that it discourages effort.”

Teachers should avoid low-effort, repetitive assignments, and assign homework “with the aim of instilling work habits and promoting autonomous, self-directed learning”.

In other words, it’s the quality of homework that matters, not the quantity. Brian Sztabnik, a veteran middle and high school English teacher, suggests that teachers take a step back and ask themselves these five questions: How long will it take to complete?

Have all learners been considered?

Will an assignment encourage future success?

Will an assignment place material in a context the classroom cannot?

Does an assignment offer support when a teacher is not there? (Excerpt from edutopia.org)

By Amy Morin

themselves in their adult child's workplace:

Moderate benefits for middle school students As students mature and devel-

op the

I

bet no one told your grandparents not to attend your parents' job interviews when they were 25. Hovering in the workplace wasn't a "thing" in past generations. But, in today's world, helicopter parents don't think twice about meddling with their college graduate's career.

In fact, a survey conducted by Michigan State University found that 32 per cent of large companies have heard from their employees' parents at one point or another. Whether it's a mother trying to convince a hiring manager that her son is a "real self-starter" or it's a father inquiring about health insurance benefits, helicopter parents leap at the opportunity to get involved.

Hyper-parenting can be a nightmare for human resource departments. And of course, too much involvement from parents has harmful effects on emerging adults' well-being.

Types of helicopter parents Not all helicopter parents meddle to the same degree. A 2013 study published in Business Horizons identified three distinct types of helicopter parents who involve

Reconnaissance helicopter parents Reconnaissance helicopter parents get involved in their college graduate's job search or employment in unobtrusive ways. They may gather information about a company, create their child's resume, offer advice on interviewing, or quietly attend a career fair.

Reconnaissance helicopter parents are the most common type. And while they aren't as aggressive as other helicopter parents, they play a major role in their children's careers. Researchers found that young adults consider their parents a critical source of career advice. Many of them stall on job offers until they can consult with their parents. And reconnaissance helicopter parents aren't shy about offering their two cents.

These helicopter parents may continue to offer advice after their child is hired by weighing in on what to wear or making suggestions about how to network. They may even help their children complete work assignments to meet deadlines – but for the most part, they refrain from making direct contact with employers. (psychologytoday.com)

news

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tuesDAY, march 6, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt mulls stripping gun licensing power from Police

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan

G

iven the recent controversy surrounding outgoing Police Chief Seelall Persaud issuing himself a gun licence, the Government is now actively reviewing the current regulations governing the issuance of these licences.

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan told the media at a press conference on Monday that serious consideration was being given to the matter, but said certain steps would have to be followed first.

“We are giving that serious consideration as we speak. It has been a situational problematic that have caused of recent times.”

Ramjattan said, “I had really thought that there were regulations already made that it has to come to the Ministry (of Public Security)”, as he explained that he did not have a recent edition of the regulations.

Nevertheless, the Minister promised to check on it. He said if the conditions were set out there, he would seek the advice

of Attorney General Basil Williams on the matter. “…then we will have to go back to the Parliament,” he said, further explaining that most likely, whatever amendments that have to be made would be done to the regulations and not the Police Act. The authority to grant firearm licences and licences for gun dealers falls under the remit of the Police Commissioner, who, upon receiving an application, forwards it to the relevant Policing Division for an investigation into the background and character of the applicant.

Based on the findings of the probe, the Commissioner makes a recommendation to the Minister, who then forwards it to the Firearms Licensing Approval Board for review.

The Board will then make its own recommendations to the Minister, and based on that or his own deliberate judgement, the Minister grants the licence.

But Ramjattan had claimed that Persaud did not follow the procedures; hence, his reason for revoking the approval of a firearm dealer licence, which Persaud granted himself last month.

It was reported in the State’s newspaper that Persaud on January 29, 2018 responded to an application previously made in his name, approving his business – Professional Outdoors Supplies – as a registered firearms dealer.

Reports revealed that the outgoing Top Cop three days earlier granted him-

Commissioners of Police applied for and grant gun licences to themselves.

“If you look historically over the past 25 years, all the past Commissioners, maybe with the exception of one, granted themselves

Outgoing Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud

self approval for two gun licences for a 9mm Pistol and a 12, 16 or 20-Gauge Pump Action Shotgun.

However, it was reported that the matter reached and engaged Cabinet’s attention and Persaud was since instructed by Vice President and Minister Ramjattan to revoke the dealership licence.

However, Persaud said there was nothing wrong with him applying to himself and then approving his own licence. In fact, he noted that this was done before.

“In the 1980s, there was a Commissioner who granted himself dealership licence … There is precedence for it … something is wrong with this Commissioner that they tell the public that it was wrong,” he said.

Asked whether it was ethical for him to make this move just a few weeks before his retirement, he pointed out that the business would have only become operationalised in May, after his retirement.

Persaud went on to point out that almost all past

Public servants get TIP training

Participants at the Foreign Affairs Ministry TIP Awareness Sessions

A

series of Trafficking in Persons (TIP) awareness sessions aimed at sensitising public servants was conducted on Friday last by the Ministerial Task Force on Trafficking in Persons.

The sessions encompassed briefings on the elements and indicators of TIP, the role of the Task Force, the hotline numbers available and the responsibility of citizens of Guyana to report incidents of TIP. The participants came from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission

(GGMC); the Foreign Affairs Ministry and the Public Security Ministry, since these agencies are believed to be the ones whose staffers would mostly often come into contact with TIP situations.

In excess of 61 persons, including Foreign Service Officers from the Foreign Affairs Ministry, had a sit-down session, not only learning the particulars of TIP but also sharing personal recommendations.

The participants were also allowed to make suggestions pertaining to the

course which will be closely considered by the Task Force. These suggestions relate to victim shelter, case prosecution, migrant smuggling, border monitoring and youth sensitisation.

TIP Coordinator Oliver Profit acted as facilitator of the activities, along with other members of the Task Force.

Citizens are being encouraged to utilise the 24/7 TIP hotline numbers – 227-4083/623- 5030 as the agency continues the fight against the scourge.

firearm licences. So it’s not anything new, but you know we live in a society today where one set of circumstances is good for one person, but not good for the other,” he posited.

Nonetheless, Persaud

said he would not be challenging the decision to revoke his licence, as he has since become discouraged with the idea of opening his own firearms dealership.

(Samuel Sukhnandan)

8 news

tuesDAY, march 6, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3 remanded for $5.3M robbery

T

hree men who robbed a businessman of $5 million, along with a quantity of ammunition, appeared before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Monday and were all remanded to prison for the robbery.

The men: Alvin Solomon, 34, of Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD); Asif Khan, 54, of Lot 149 Bel West, West Bank Demerara (WBD) and Winston Raymond, 27, of Land of Canaan, EBD all denied the

charge read to them by city Magistrate Judy Latchman.

The charge stated that the trio robbed Inshan Alli Bacchus of $5 million, along with 49 rounds of ammunition, one computer bag and a cellphone – a total value of $5.3 million on February 26, 2018 at Alexander Street, Georgetown.

Solomon was slapped with a second charge which stated that he had in his possession ammunition while not being licensed for same.

The defendants were represented by Attorneysat-Law Dexter Todd, Tiffany Jeffrey, and Adrian Thompson.

The lawyers made bail applications on the grounds that their clients were never placed in an identification parade.

According to Todd, Solomon, who is a taxi driver, was stopped by Police ranks who arrested him and took him into custody. His vehicle was driven to the Police Station

by a Policeman and was searched without him being present.

However, Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore told the Court that some $600,000 along with the stolen ammunition was discovered in Solomon’s car.

The items were reportedly stolen from Bacchus when the trio broke into his vehicle, which was parked on Alexander Street.

The defendants will return to court on March 19, 2018.

Man who robbed cop jailed for 50 months

T

he Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara (ECD) resident who pounced on a Policeman on Friday last, robbing him of his cellphone and $240 was on Monday jailed.

Darren Bailey admitted to robbing Mahendra Doognauth of the cash and phone when he appeared before city Magistrate Judy

Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

The charge stated that Bailey carried out the daring robbery on March 2, 2018 on Hinck Street, Georgetown.

At the time of the robbery, he was armed with a pair of scissors.

In court on Monday, Bailey told the Magistrate he was on the Plaisance Bus

Teen remanded for armed robbery

A

n 18-year-old Norton Street, Georgetown resident was remanded to prison on Monday when he appeared before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged for armed robbery.

Tyron Arthur denied that on February 28, 2018, while being in the company of another and being armed with a pair of scissors, he robbed Nashawn Bentinck of his cellphone and jewellery valued in total $115,000.

According to Arthur’s Attorney, Tiffany Jeffrey, her client is only guilty of being in the wrong company.

She revealed that the Virtual Complainant (VC), who did not appear in Court, was making arrangements with the teen’s family to settle the matter.

However, after standing down the matter, Magistrate Latchman remanded the teen to prison. The case will be called again on March 19, 2018.

Park when he mistook the Police Officer for someone from the interior who reportedly owed him.

“I pulled out my scissors to take back my goods,” he told the Court. However, Doognauth made a report and a team comprising a Cadet Officer went to the Stabroek Market area and found Bailey standing under the clock.

He was taken into Police custody where he was searched and found to be in possession of the stolen phone. He later admitted to committing the act and was charged.

Magistrate Latchman considered the serious nature and prevalence of the offence and sentenced Bailey to 50 months in prison.

Accused gold chain thief remanded

A

n alleged gold chain thief who pretended to hug a woman while robbing her of a gold chain was on Monday remanded to prison.

Twenty-nine-year-old Carl Crandon, of Sophia, Greater Georgetown, was brought before city Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer for his crime.

He denied that on March 1, 2018 at Lombard Street,

Georgetown, he stole the gold chain valued $82,000, property of Marlyn Hinds.

The prosecution is contending that Hinds was walking along Lombard Street when Crandon put his hand around her shoulder as if he was going to hug her, but rather removed the chain.

The matter was reported, and the defendant was arrested and charged. The case will continue on March 19, 2018.

Zinc thief fined $30,000 A man who attempted to steal two galvanised zinc sheets from the roof of the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) Sports Complex building was on Monday fined after he admitted to the offence.

Thirty-year-old Andrew Arjune admitted that he did attempt to commit the act on February 28, 2018 at Thomas Lands, Georgetown.

The defendant told Magistrate Judy Latchman who he appeared before that the building was old and the zinc sheets fell from the roof to the ground.

According to Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore, the Secretary of the Union re-

ceived a call informing him that someone was removing the galvanised sheets from the Sports Complex yard.

He informed the Police of same, and they went to the location and saw Arjune, who they arrested.

The defendant when questioned by Magistrate Latchman told her that he removed the sheets “to see if anybody want buy it”.

The man, who was previously charged for stealing from his uncle, however, begged the Magistrate for mercy.

He was fined $30,000.

Failure to pay the fine will result in him serving two weeks’ imprisonment.

No vision…

T

…on development he good book advises: “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” While we may quibble, or even disagree vehemently, about the content of the “vision”, without the overarching plan embedded in a vision, one would just be bumbling through life. And this is even truer when we’re talking about the development of a nation.

Unfortunately, with each passing day, it’s clear that this PNC-led Government hasn’t a clue, much less a vision, for Guyana. We all know about the oil contract, wherein Trotman practically gave away our oil patrimony for a song – the song probably being “The Waltz of Texas”!!

Anyone with a vision for Guyana would’ve appreciated that “Production Sharing Agreements” were specifically introduced in the oil industry by Indonesia – and then the rest of the world -- for them to TAKE CONTROL of their mineral assets. The vision demanded that the oil company become simply a CONTRACTOR, acting at the behest of the country; and not the other way round! How could anyone with a vision actively cultivate a new colonial relationship”?

That is not a vision, but a nightmare!

Another sign of the vision-deprived nature of the PNC was revealed in the riposte of the Minister of Public Infrastructure to the Chinese Ambassador’s candid appraisal of the design of the New Demerara Harbour Bridge being “backward”. Imagine the wanker could say they’re going along with the backward design because a more appropriate Bridge for the 21st century “would shackle us in debt”!! Can you imagine a more ludicrous answer than this?

The Minister couldn’t deny the truth of the Ambassador’s claim – how could he? Who in the world, then, would spend US$170 million to “fix” the major problem with the present Bridge -- its retraction causes massive backups and delays – by having the new structure just being able to have vehicles parked on it??!! Isn’t this the height of asininity?? If you can spend that much for a scenic parking (overlooking the Demerara River!) why can’t you spend even double that if the modern structure would facilitate continuous traffic flow?

The question of “vision,” or, more pertinently, its lack, arises. What exactly are the plans of this Government for that portion of the oil revenues that’s coming our way?

Just parades and jump-ups? Hasn’t the World Bank, and the IDB, and every other financial institution explained that the difference between us and, say, the Eastern Tigers was infrastructure?

Is it so difficult to appreciate that the productivity gains alone from having folks from the west get to work faster will be worth the extra outlay? What about decentralizing manufacturing away from G/t to WCD? But it’s the blind leading the lame!! …like Ghana There was a welcome news item on celebrations of “Ghana Day”. Unlike what’s happened to our “Republic Day”, we hope this seminal event doesn’t end up in the vulgarity that Mash has become. From 1957, “Ghana Day” followed “Swaraj Day,” or “India Independence Day” in 1947, in being commemorated here.

At that time, our own Independence movement, led by the PPP in 1953, had been split into two by Forbes Burnham and others. Ghana Day was unfortunately part of the ethnic polarization that was to follow in the ensuing five years. We shouldn’t forget also that Kwame Nkrumah – Like Cheddi Jagan here -- was overthrown as part of the Cold War that defined which leaders were “suitable” for running their “independent” countries.

But all of that is water under the bridge. If we really want to honour Ghana’s example, we don’t only have to stick to clothes and drumming. Right now, they’ve negotiated oil contracts that put ours to shame; yet their Jubilee Field is the geological mirror image of ours!! …and deafness A well-meaning NGO is assisting Guyanese to deal with the problem of deafness. Your Eyewitness pleads with them to work on members of this PNC Government.

Maybe they’re visionless, because they can’t hear advice?

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

News

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tuesDAY, march 6, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana Stores ordered to pay over $3B in outstanding corporation tax

…after CCJ rules in favour of GRA ...still owes hundreds of millions to NICIL

T

Kaieteur News Publisher Glenn Lall

he Guyana Stores Limited (GSL) has lost its appeal in a matter involving the payment of corporation tax to the Guyana Revenue Authority, which it had taken before the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to determine whether a two percent minimum corporation tax was unconstitutional and amounted to the taking away of private prop-

erty On Monday, the CCJ dismissed the GSL appeal and awarded cost to the GRA as respondents.

The matter arose in 2012 when the GSL refused to pay more than $3 billion in corporation tax after a notice of demand was sent to the company. The GSL had moved to the local courts, but both the High Court and the Court

of Appeal had ruled against GSL, and ordered that it pay the $3,807,346,397 in corporation taxes.

The GSL then moved to the CCJ. However, on Monday, the CCJ ruled that the two percent corporation tax was not a forced loan, but the tax was constitutional.

The CCJ stated that the Income Tax Act provides a specialized procedure for challenging assessments, and the GSL should have used that procedure.

The CCJ also held that the 2 per cent minimum corporation tax was not a loan, because the State does not repay the taxpayer, nor does the taxpayer have any right to repayment or redemption, which were crucial elements of any loan.

Under section 10A of the Income Tax Act, the taxpayer simply gets a credit if, and when, the stated conditions are met, and the tax-

represented by Atorneys-atLaw Ronald Burch-Smith and Mark Waldron. Guyana Stores Limited is owned primarily by Tony Yassin and

Yassin, directors of Guyana Stores, owe US$2 million of the US$6 million the property was sold in December 1999.

Tony Yassin

payer may then apply that credit in reduction of a tax liability, but the taxpayer is never entitled to repayment. The Court also held in its summary that the provisions of the Corporation Tax Act were clear and unambiguous, so that Parliament must be taken to have considered the implication of taxing turnover as distinct from taxing profit, and felt satisfied there was no need to exclude loss years or safeguard the taxpaying company’s capital. The GRA was

The Guyana Revenue Authority, Camp Street

Glenn Lall, publisher of the Kaieteur News.

Meanwhile, Guyana Stores Limited still owes the Government hundreds of millions of dollars for the purchased of the building on Water Street, Georgetown.

National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited currently has several court actions against GSL for millions in outstanding monies owed to the Government. Lall and

Past due interest on the outstanding balance would amount almost to another US$2 million or even more.

The matter is sub judice, as the Government owned corporation moved to the courts to recover its monies. In the meantime, the profits of the company are collected by the two owners and shareholders have complained of never receiving any dividends since the company was privatized.

CPGs to play major role in border security I

n expressing confidence in the ability of Community Policing Groups (CPGs) to carry out their functions, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan said these groups could assist in a major way to tackle the illegal entry of foreigners, especially from neighbouring Venezuela, into Guyana.

In addressing a media conference on Monday that was called to discuss preparations to mark the 42nd anniversary of community policing in Guyana, the Minister said there was room for CPGs to play a much greater role in this level of policing in Guyana’s border regions, to assist law enforcement agencies.

Minister Ramjattan said there have been calls for members of CPGs to enhance this level of local security as he expressed confidence in their capacity to carry out this function. “There have been calls from people especially who own shops. They have indicated to me that they would like to set up some CPGs … to also enhance their security,” he ex-

CPGs Administrator, retired Senior Superintendent of Police, Dennis Pompey

plained.

The Ministry is also considering the option of having outstanding citizens given precepts that would allow them to have some policing powers, especially since there are limited Police in far-flung communities that border Venezuela.

These persons would have to come under one of the CPGs. Asked whether there is information sharing from these interior locations and special intelligence in those areas,

Ramjattan said while there might not be classic intelligence, he would encourage it.

“We want information. So, if they see strangers and they see Venezuelans coming in and doing a couple of things, we would like them to telephone us at the headquarters at the Ministry,” he added.

President David Granger had instructed the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to brief the parliamentary committee on security on the steps that were being taken to secure communities located along the border with Venezuela as a result of the unstable situation in that country, as well as the ongoing border controversy.

The Head of State also indicated that he expected that even as Government continued to work at the central and regional levels to ensure security in the border regions, civil society would be fully briefed.

The Guyana-Venezuela border controversy was recently referred to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Meanwhile, CPGs were also hailed for the work

they have done in various crime-fighting areas. Most notably, however, was their recent involvement in helping the Police crack down on carjacking. CPGs have been credited for cracking many such

cases and also assisting the Police in the arrest of several wanted persons who had set up havens in communities across the country.

The Administrator of CPGs, retired Senior Superintendent

of Police, Dennis Pompey said CPGs were making a valuable contribution to crime fighting and continued to help to make communities across the country much safer.

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10 news

tuesDAY, march 6, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt considers reopening scrap metal trade …to hold talks with stakeholders

GMD&GEA President Malek Cave

W

hen the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) was faced with figuring out what to do with scrap metal on the sugar estates, it invited tenders from persons for export of this commodity. However, the trade is currently banned, despite calls for its reopening.

In an interview with this publication, Business Minister Dominic Gaskin revealed that plans are be-

ing ironed out for a sit-down with scrap metal stakeholders. He noted that scrap metal stakeholders should be given an opportunity to ply their trade, once the metal is being acquired from legitimate sources, such as the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and other entities.

“At that meeting, we will provide some information on the reopening of the trade, depending on the discussion,” Gaskin, the person ultimately responsible for the trade, related. “I believe most of the persons who were previously involved in the trade would like there to be some reopening,” he posited.

“We would actually like to give them an opportunity to export the scrap metal that they have accumulated. We don’t see a problem with persons being allowed to export scrap metal that they have received from legitimate sources, such as the decommissioned estates; so I don’t see a problem with that.”

NICIL, in a recent notice,

It has also been stressed that buyers would have to agree to purchase the items on an “as is-where is” basis, meaning that NICIL has absolved itself from any liability, while buyers must agree to accept the equipment in whatever condition it is found, in order to conclude the sale.

The ban on the scrap

trade is currently banned.

At last month’s official launch of an association to advocate for scrap metal traders and other exporters, executives of that association heavily criticised the continued ban on scrap metal and Government’s turning a deaf ear to the plight of would-be traders. That association had been explicit

President of the Association, Malek Cave, had complained that the current administration was less willing to work with traders than the previous one had been.

Cave had made a number of recommendations regarding how the scrap metal trade could be safely reopened, including annual licensing with a regis-

Business Minister Dominic Gaskin

has invited expressions of interest from interested bidders to purchase scrap metal and equipment. Since closure of the estates, concerns have been raised about the maintenance of machinery worth millions of dollars within the factories.

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

NICIL’s Special Purpose Unit is currently divesting GuySuCo’s assets, inclusive of machinery

metal trade came about following persistent complaints about vandalism.

There were also issues regarding the management of the trade.

There have been intermissions, such as the three-month reopening of the trade last year, but the

that the status quo of ‘Paul pay for all’ cannot continue.

Dozens of former traders were present at the launch of the Guyana Metal Dealers and General Exporters Association (GMD&GEA), held at the Regency Suites hotel. Professing to have voted for the coalition,

ter of dealers. He had also urged that the policing of the sector be strengthened, and penalties for infractions be toughened. Cave also stressed that the association would not give up its advocacy and its drive to bring the authorities to the negotiating table.

Magistrate throws out rape case against former REO

A

fter stirring much controversy almost two years ago, the rape case filed against former Regional Executive Officer (REO) of Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), Carl Parker was on Monday dismissed.

The decision was made

by Magistrate Alan Wilson when he upheld a no-case submission by Parker’s Attorney, Jerome Khan, dismissing the charge. Parker was charged under Section 4 (3) of the Sexual Offences Act, Chap 8:03, with sexually assaulting a female, who was an elected official serving on the Regional

Former Region Nine REO Carl Parker

Democratic Council (RDC) at the time.

It was alleged that on June 6, 2016 at Yupukari

Village, Region Nine, Parker touched the woman in a sexual manner without her consent. The matter was reported six months later, on December 30, 2016.

Parker had publicly denied the claim. However, some 1200 residents in the Region had petitioned President David Granger for Parker’s removal, as he was accused of discriminatory practices and “unprofessional conduct”. That petition, dated April 11, 2016, detailed some 13 accusations against the former REO – most of which were of sexual harassment.

Turn to page 12

NEWS

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tuesDAY, march 6, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Preying on bank customers

Banks need to monitor staff, CCTV footage – Crime Chief …sting operation to tackle increased robberies – Ramjattan

A

decision has been made to set up a sting operation to deal with the recent spate of robberies committed on persons who have been targeted after conducting financial transactions at commercial banks.

This announcement was made by Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, who suggested that a sting operation could help to curb the issue before it becomes uncontrollable, and would help to address the situation from a collective standpoint.

The minister did not reject popular opinion suggesting suspicion of involvement of bank employees and relatives of persons who have been robbed in the past.

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

He revealed that certain banks have started conducting their own internal investigations into the phenomenon to determine the truth, and explained that most commercial banks have reported that their tellers would not be able to retain their phones while on duty. Other internal mechanisms are being looked into, he also said.

Staff, CCTV monitoring

The roll Crime Chief Paul Williams has to play requires that he address the numerous incidents of persons being robbed shortly after conducting transactions at various commercial banks.

“I’m appealing to the banks for them to carry out some amount of analy-

Crime Chief Paul Williams

sis within their daily operations. There are so many things the banks can do from an analysis that (would) really help us to see if there is any inside dealing or inside information,” Williams told the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Monday.

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

“The bank needs to carry out a review of the CCTV within the bank itself. See how many persons frequent the bank; whether they are doing transactions, or sitting idly. Follow this daily; see how many persons are being robbed. Check to see if they would’ve dealt with a specific teller, you know.

There is so much analysis that can be done in order

for us to deal with this situation,” he told DPI. Just last week, the Guyana Association of Bankers (GAB) expressed similar concerns over these escalating incidents of persons being targeted after conducting transactions with commercial banks.

The GBA, in a statement to the media, said, “We strongly condemn these incidents, and wish to assure our customers and the public at large that, as an industry, we are working with the relevant authorities and internally with all member banks with a view to arresting this trend.”

The GBA told the media that the safety of customers and staff remains paramount among its priorities.

It has also pledged to continue co-operation with law enforcement entities to address any factors that compromise this position.

“In the interest of safety, we take this opportunity to encourage customers and members of the public to, as far as possible, refrain from conducting large cash transactions, and instead utilize other secure methods of payment, such as Manager’s Cheques or direct payments.”

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

After a bank transaction two weeks ago, a 30-yearold businessman and his 35-year-old salesman were ambushed by three men – two of whom were armed -- and relieved of over $2 million in cash and other

valuables while they were in the vicinity of Drysdale Street, Charlestown, Georgetown.

Besides this incident, there have been multiple other cases in which customers of various banking institutions were traced

to their homes or business places and robbed by bandits at gunpoint.

Just last year, a bandit was killed and another was captured unhurt during an exchange of gunfire at an attempted robbery at Republic Bank (Guyana),

Water Street, Georgetown.

The bandit was shot in his chest, and succumbed to his injuries. One of the suspects was shot in both legs. He was a bank employee who is said to have been the mastermind behind the bank robbery.

12 news 50 schools participate in biennial STEAM fair tuesDAY, march 6, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Golden Grove Nursery School showcasing the uses of the coconut

By Jemima Holmes

T

he Diamond Secondary School was a hive of activity on Monday as the Region Four leg of the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) fair commenced.

This biennial event allows for students to create and showcase projects in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), but the fair was this year extended to include the Arts category.

Hundreds of students, hailing from as far as Mahaica on the East Coast of Demerara and Soesdyke on the East Bank of Demerara, attended the event accompanied by teachers, parents and well-wishers. In excess of 50 schools presented projects at the competition in hopes of coming out ‘on top’.

The opening ceremony saw a number of speakers who all touched on the importance of STEAM to

the students’ education and Guyana’s development.

Presenting the feature address was University of Guyana Lecturer Dr Elroy Charles, who explicitly spoke on the importance of STEAM to Guyana’s Green and Sustainable Development Plan. He highlighted areas such as renewable energy, biotechnology, ecology and biodiversity, noting that they can all contribute to Guyana’s Green and economic development.

In speaking on the need for energy, Dr Charles stated that our endeavours must benefit hinterland regions as well as coastal areas. “We need to develop renewable energy resources and ensure that people living in farflung areas of hinterland regions can enjoy the benefits of energy,” he said.

The UG lecturer encouraged students to continue asking questions even though they may sometimes seem small and annoying. He said, “It is that form of inquisitiveness that

students you must have as you seek to pave the way to a green and sustainable society.”

The STEAM fair was declared open by Regional Education Chairperson (Region Four) Genevieve Allen.

The compound of the Diamond Secondary School was given a splash of colour as students from more than 50 nursery, primary and secondary schools arranged and presented a total of some 122 entries. The enthusiastic students were eager to present their school’s project to anyone who would lend a listening ear.

Kacy Persaud and Sonita Mentore of Helena Primary School explained that their project focused on recycling matter that would often be left as litter. The young ladies showed how the waste materials could be transformed into craft and useable objects.

On the other hand, a little lady from Mahaica Primary showcased a colourful costume and display on the different uses of mangoes, titled ‘mango fusion’.

In the secondary department, a series of eloquent presentations were made

by Annandale Secondary, Soesdyke Secondary and Diamond Secondary. The secondary projects tended to delve deeper into areas such as soil enhancement, fossil fuels, sustainable development, and robotics.

Jaleel Thomas of Annandale Secondary explained how he and his colleagues arrived at their project.

“On the East Coast of Demerara, there has been an increase in mechanic shops and the canals are clogged with water hyacinths. We are using the water hyacinths to extract all the heavy metals from the water,” he stated.

Students in the lower secondary category are competing in Home Economics, Environmental Science, Agricultural Science, Social and Behavioural Change, and Mathematics. In the upper secondary category, students are matching skills in Environmental Science, Integrated Science, Agricultural Science, Visual

Mahaica Primary’s “Mango Fusion” project

Arts, Home Mathematics, Technology,

Economics, Industrial Information

Technology, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

And in the nursery catego-

ry, students are competing in Craft and Environmental Science, and Science and Mathematics. In the primary category, they are competing in Mathematics, Craft and Visual Arts, Environmental Science and Science.

Diamond Secondary have ventured to defend their 2016 title with the entry of 11 whopping projects.

Each category has a trophy prize attached to it.

Although many of the students are anticipating the results of the competition, they will have to wait until the event culminates later today to be awarded prizes.

Banks DIH assists WCD flood victims

I

n light of the recent high tides and breached sea defence on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD) which left many villages flooded, Banks DIH Limited on Saturday donated bottled water and biscuits to the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) to assist the victims.

Banks DIH Communications Manager Troy Peters handed over 150 cases of one-litre Aqua Mist, 150 cases of 1.5 litre Tropical Mist and 300 31-pound boxes of biscuits to CDC official Anthony Hope at the CDC headquarters in Thomas Lands.

“We responded immediately after there was a call for assistance as the CDC was forced to set up temporary shelters for residents in West Demerara in light of the flooding. We do hope that the residents will be able to get their lives back

Banks DIH Communications Manager Troy Peters (second from left) making the presentation to the CDC official

together as quickly as possible,” Peters said.

Residents of Uitvlugt, Leonora and Stewartville were seriously affected by the flooding which resulted from the high tides that disrupted sections of the sea defence structure on Friday.

CDC Administrative Manager (ag), Odetta Giddings expressed her gratitude to the company for its timely response to assist the residents of the affected communities, also noting that a clean-up exercise has begun.

Magistrate throws out...

After Parker was charged in February 2017, the trial commenced on March 6, 2017. During the trial, there were several delays.

In his no-case submission, Attorney Khan reminded the court that the VC had claimed in her evidence-in-chief that she could not leave the room

which she willingly shared with Parker during their visit to Yupukari, as she needed a key, which was under the control of the then REO, to exit the room from the inside.

The defence lawyer then recalled Detective Sergeant Seetaram’s testimony during which he told the Court that during investigations, he found that there was no need for a key to unlock the door to exit the room, as one simply needed to turn a door knob.

Khan also highlighted the fact that the Police Officer found that the lock to the room in question was never changed from the period of June 2016 to when he was directed to investigate this aspect of the matter.

In handing down his decision on Monday, Magistrate Wilson said that the charge was bad in law and rather than charging for an offence under the Act, the charge was laid using the penalty clause.

With the prosecution already closing its case and submissions made by both sides, the presiding

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Magistrate ruled that the charge now could not be amended.

When the decision was handed down, shrieks of joys erupted from Parker and his family members.

The decision comes on the heels of the Region facing yet another sexual assault scandal. Rape allegations have been levelled against the Deputy Regional Executive Officer (DREO) Sherwin Wellington by a female colleague, who alleged the incident occurred on a business trip to Karasabai on behalf of the RDC. Last week, Senior Superintendent Kevin Adonis, who is currently heading the Police’s F Division (Lethem and Interior Locations), told Guyana Times that the case file has officially been completed and the matter has been sent for legal advice.

After the allegations were made, Region Nine Chairman Brian Allicock was the first to speak out on the matter, noting that such occurrences “tarnish the image of the administration”.

Wellington has since denied the allegations.

NEWS

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tuesDAY, march 6, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Teacher endures 5-month wait for wages …as GTU pledges to continue advocacy for better teaching conditions

By Jarryl Bryan

T

eaching is often described as one of the most important but under-recognised professions, since the work teachers do helps to shape the minds of future generations.

The battle one teacher faced to be paid his dues has left a discouraging impression on his mind.

Jason (not his real name) hails from the Essequibo Coast in Region Two, but was assigned to a city school in September of 2017. He was at first eager to begin his career as a teacher, but reality quickly set in, as he had no family in Georgetown and found it difficult to get by. According to Jason, he applied for a transfer in hope of being assigned to a school closer to home, and it was here that his troubles began.

The young teacher related to this publication that from September 2017 until February 2018, he was not paid anything for his work.

“When I got the actual school, I (realised) that I couldn’t afford to live in Georgetown… So I asked for the transfer. I went to the (Ministry of Education) on Brickdam,” the teacher related.

He related that one of the perquisites for being on the payroll was having a bank account. Owing to the stringent measures necessary for acquiring an account, Jason was initially unable to meet the requirements.

“I told them that I didn’t have a bank account, and it would be (difficult) to get one because of the banking requirements. So this put me at a disadvantage; I had to try to get the requirements just to get paid.”

But even with his bank account finally set up, months went by without him being paid. It reached a point where the young teacher was forced to seek a loan from the school at which he taught.

“When I went to sign (on the payroll), they said I

GTU General Secretary Coretta McDonald

had to be on the payroll for a month at least before you get paid. So I signed about early December, and they said I couldn’t make it on the January payroll, so I had to wait until February (to be paid),” he detailed.

“I had no funds to purchase personal items and so on, so I asked the school… if by chance they could help me out. And the principal said he could loan me some money until I got my payment. And I was given about $12,000.”

He was forced to rely on family support for the months he went without pay.

Advocacy for better

When contacted, Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) General Secretary Coretta McDonald was asked what the union has planned to address processing delays within the system for teachers. She noted that while the union does not work from within the ministry, its engagements and advocacy with the relevant authorities would continue.

“That’s what we’ve been doing for the longest while; we’ve been directing those complaints to our counterparts at the Ministry of Education. So far, we’re satisfied that in quite a lot of the regions we’ve seen changes, where teachers can go and have their issues addressed in a timely manner without the long delays that they used to have before.

“Like everything else,

the (trend) is not going to catch in a lot of the places at the same time. So we still have some regions that are lagging behind,” McDonald said. “I know it’s a work in progress, but we are satisfied with what is happening right now.”

Last year, a task force was set up to examine outstanding problems with a view to their timely resolution, and to propose a new multi-year agreement between the Government and the GTU. The task force was expected to meet on a weekly basis.

The Union has accused Government of side-lining and disrespecting its members on the force, resulting in the Union threatening a countrywide strike if the Government failed to take decisive action to address the concerns of the representative body. The strike was scheduled for November 2-3, but was called off following a meeting with President David Granger and Union representatives.

During a meeting of the task force last month, it was reported in sections of the media that draft recommendations for things, including the improvement of the education system, were submitted by the GTU to the task force.

It is understood that once they pass muster at the level of the Ministry of Education, the recommendations would be sent on to cabinet.

Man knocked unconscious during Linden Mash fete

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olice in E Division (Linden-Kwakwani) are investigating the circumstances under which a Linden man was injured during the town’s Mashramani celebration at the Bayroc Community Centre Ground, Wismar, Linden on Sunday.

Reports from the Police indicate that the victim,

Melward Grant, 22, a labourer of Canvas City, Wismar, was struck to the back of the head. Grant was at the Mashramani fete with his friends and family and about 17:15h, he went to one of the bars about 100 feet away from the pavilion to make a purchase. He was attacked from behind while at the bar making his purchase

and fell unconscious. He was picked up and rushed to the Linden Hospital Complex, where he was examined by a doctor and treated for a laceration to the back of the head. He regained consciousness about 22:30h that night.

Investigations are continuing.

Guyana gets full membership in Caribbean Local Government Association

T

he intervention of the Guyana Association of Municipalities (GAM) has resulted in Guyana now returning to full-term membership status, under the Caribbean Local Government Association (CALGA).

CALGA Second Vice President Anthony Roberts on Sunday wrapped up a three-day visit to Guyana where he delivered the good news to the Communities Ministry and the GAM. The CALGA official arrived last Thursday and met with Government and the GAM, noting that Guyana was elevated from observer status under the CALGA after fulfilling the relevant requirements. Guyana’s status was downgraded a few years ago, but measures were taken by the GAM to correct the lapse. Roberts also expressed his satisfaction with the push for decentralisation and commended Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan for the positive report he received from the local municipalities, as he encouraged Guyana to keep pushing in the direction of full autonomy for local organs. He also noted that there was still minimal friction between local organs and central and regional governments over interference.

Minister Bulkan, in response, thanked CALGA for the confidence expressed and pledged Guyana’s full support to the regional organ, while committing to ensuring local government

GAM President Carwyn Holland and CALGA official Anthony Roberts

organs were fully equipped to carry out their functions effectively. GAM, which was instrumental in facilitating the visit which followed a recent CALGA strategic planning meeting in Trinidad, has recorded its second international success since being resuscitated, after earlier gaining Guyana a place `on the executive body of the Commonwealth Local Government Forum. GAM President Carwyn Holland, who is also the outgoing Mayor of Linden, thanked CALGA for recognising the importance of Guyana’s contribution regionally and lobbied for Guyana to be the next host of the CALGA ex-

ecutive meeting, slated for June 2018. Holland noted that Guyana was a founder member of the Association and it was most fitting for the country to be the host.

Roberts was also a Guest Speaker at the Corriverton Phagwah celebrations and met with the Mayor and Councillors there. Last Saturday, he held a meeting with the GAM executives and later travelled to Linden for sight-seeing and a meeting with the outgoing Mayor and Councillors. Roberts also called for Guyana’s support as the regional body seeks observer status with the Caribbean Community (Caricom).

NAREI to improve on potato cultivation …secures several private proposals

T

he National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) has received several partnership proposals from private investors as Guyana continues to see an increase in the need for potatoes to be cultivated on a large-scale basis.

This is in light of several successful trials undertaken by the institution over the past year.

The research arm of NAREI is in the process of procuring state-of-the-art potato seed storage equipment.

According to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Oudho Homenauth, adding such equipment to the list of services already being offered by the institution is necessary, as it positions itself to adequately address the need for the commodity to be grown locally.

“Already $5 million has been allocated under our

capital works programme for the procurement of the equipment and will be procured shortly...adding potatoes to the list of commodities we (NAREI) have successfully [trialled] is important, but having it done on a large-scale basis is ever more necessary,” Dr Homenauth said.

During the trial phase undertaken by the Research Institute, several successful trials were undertaken in conjunction with farmers in Mahaicony, Little Biaboo – Region Five; Laluni and Kairuni on the LindenSoesdyke Highway, and Kato, Parima, and Santa Fe in the hinterland.

However, among the notable challenges which were documented by the Institute were poor germination and the development of fungus as a result of improper storage of seed materials.

One of the spin-off effects of Guyana being able to pro-

duce potato on a large scale will be a significant reduction in its import bill, which continues to be a challenge for Guyana and the wider Caricom Region. To target this, according to Dr Homenauth, import substitution has to be increased.

“From 2011 to 2016, the food import bill has risen from US$176 million to US$261 million, representing a 48 per cent increase over the six-year period.

This is an alarming figure and is the premise on which NAREI’s diversification efforts are targeted,” Dr Homenauth stated.

In light of Guyana’s quest to expand commercial agriculture, Agriculture Minister Noel Holder has called on investors to take advantage of the opportunities.

He added that with the prospect of potatoes being grown on a large-scale basis, opportunities are ripe to engage, network, and grow.

14 news Police accused of facilitating cattle rustling in Berbice tuesDAY, march 6, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Region Six Livestock Producers Cooperative Society Ltd Chairman Roopnarine Matadial

T

he Region Six Livestock Producers Cooperative Society Ltd is accusing Police ranks attached to two stations in ‘B’ Division of facilitating cattle rustling.

Officers at the Berbice River Bridge were recently able to intercept a truck with stolen cattle being transported to be slaughtered. An alert constable noticed that the animals in the truck were carrying a fresh brand, and informed his superiors at the outpost.

According to Chairman of the Region Six Livestock Producers Cooperative Society Ltd, Roopnarine Matadial, the truck with the cattle would have been checked by officers at the Albion Police Station and the Lewis Manor Police Outpost situated along the East Coast Berbice Highway.

Matadial told this publication that cattle larceny has become a lucrative business in Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne).

According to reports, the

truck was taking six animals to an abattoir at West Coast Berbice when it was intercepted.

Matadial explained that in order to pass animals in

Mohamed Nadir Hussain

a vehicle, one would have to pay a fee of $10,000 per head of animal to obtain the pass at Albion. This is checked and verified at the Lewis Manor Outpost.

However last Friday, at Albion and East Coast Berbice, the officers apparently did not observe

Some of the rebranded cattle at the Whim Police Station Pound

that the eleven head of cattle that were in the truck had a fresh brand that corresponded with the documents accompanying them but not with the original brand.

On Friday, a canter load of cows was intercepted at the Berbice Bridge checkpoint, where it was discovered that the animals appeared to have been stolen.

Mohamed Nadir Hussain, a farmer of Wellington Park, Corentyne, Berbice, the owner of the eleven (11) head of cattle, explained that he had taken his animals to graze on Thursday afternoon, but when he returned to his animals later that evening, he had noticed four of his cattle missing.

“I look for them and I couldn’t find them, and on Friday I get a call that four of my animals deh in a truck at Berbice Bridge and Police hold it up there. They told me to travel and go down and identify the animals.

The Police take the animals

Mother, child poisoning

Husband says wife had threatened to kill self, baby before

F

ollowing reports that a teenage mother had, on Saturday, ingested a poisonous substance and had given some to her year-old infant, the husband of the woman, who is the father of the infant, is denying that the couple had had a misunderstanding prior to the incident, while the girl’s mother is accusing the baby’s father of causing what might be a murder-suicide.

Reports are that on Saturday morning, 19-year-old Roshanie Ramlakhan of Number 58 Village, Corentyne was picked up in a semi-conscious state next to a bus shed at Number 61 Village.

Her infant child standing next to her.

She claimed she had ingested a poisonous substance, and had given some to her baby to drink.

Reports are that the woman and her 23-year-

old husband had had an argument earlier in the day, and she had left the house and had taken the child with her.

Roshanie’s mother, Kaowala Thakurdyal, told this publication that her daughter confirmed that she had ingested poison, but has refused to give a reason for so doing.

Thakurdyal said relatives told her that the couple had had an argument earlier in the day.

Roshanie’s 23-year-old husband, Dinish Singh, has however denied those allegations.

“We never had no argument at the said time!

It was the day before we had a lil argument, but everything was alright. The next day me and she talk and gaff. The night when I go home, everything was good,” he explained.

His mother-in-law has said that this was not the

case, and has claimed that the carpenter reached home from work at about 02:00h on Saturday.

“Yesterday, (Sunday) he start cuss up abe! He run me husband fuh hit am! He say how awe dis make she don’t wan live with he. Is not awe; steady dem does get problem and she does come by awe!” Thakurdyal declared.

She also said that since the couple got married eighteen months ago, they have been experiencing marital problems.

However, Singh is saying that during the latter half of last year, his wife had threatened to take her own life and that of the infant’s.

While the reason for the woman’s actions cannot be confirmed, doctors have said that both mother and child are considered to be in stable condition.

to Central Police Station and I identify the four animals, and from there they took (them) to Whim Station, where they keep (them),” Hussain explained.

According to the cattle farmer, there were fresh brands on his animals, but his original brand was still visible.”

“I had my brand, C46M, on both sides of the animals,” he explained.

Another farmer, Sahadeo Etwaroo of Number 35 Village Corentyne, who owns 150 head of cattle, told this publication he had lost eight cows. He said he knew his cattle were missing only when he received a telephone call indicating that a truck had passed with the animals.

“I didn’t know my cows was missing. On the truck, two of the cows were mine.

I don’t know where is the other six still,” he said. The farmer is of the belief that those have been killed and sold.

Matadial is calling on the relevant authorities to take swift action internally against Police allegedly condoning cattle rustling.

He claimed that a butcher on the West Coast of Berbice boasts that he can get stolen animals past any Police station in Berbice, since he has the contacts.

Those claims contradict utterances made by Berbice Divisional Commander, Assistant Commissioner Lindon Alves, who has been

Sahadeo Etwaroo

supporting efforts by farmers and officers to hunt down stolen animals. Alves has also utilized the services of the Mounted Branch in the Division to track down stolen cattle with much success.

Matadial said he was told by the driver who was transporting the stolen animals on Friday that a butcher had made all of the payments to ensure the safe delivery of the cattle to his business place.

Matadial is calling on the administration to act swiftly and not allow cor-

rupt officers to adversely affect the efforts of the administration. He has said that once anyone has played a part in the cattle rustling trade, that person is guilty of cattle rustling.

“These rustlers must be charged,” he says.

According to the Criminal Law (Offences) Act Chapter 8:01, an Act to consolidate and amend the law relating to procedure with respect to indictable offences: Sections 176178 provide for the larceny of goats, pigs, horses, cattle, and the killing of animals with intent to steal carcasses thereof.

According to Section l76 of the said act, everyone who steals any goat or kid, or any boar, sow, barrow, hog or pig , shall be guilty of a felony and be liable to imprisonment of three years; while Section l77 says anyone who steals any horse, mare, gelding, colt, or filly’ or any mule, or any ass, or any mull, cow, ox, steer, heifer or calf; or any ram, ewe, sheep, or lamb, shall be guilty of a felony and liable to imprisonment for fourteen years.

Matadial is suggesting that cattle rustlers be charged under section 177 of the Criminal Law offences Act. (Andrew Carmichael)

CPGs to play major...

Persons forming these CPGs are trained mostly in conflict resolution, Trafficking In Persons, anger management, as well as how to deal with violence, suicide, and noise nuisance, among other issues.

Minister Ramjattan also expressed satisfaction with the work of the CPGs, although he was responsible for taking away equipment, including vehicles, that hampered these groups from executing their duties. The Minister did admit to this at Monday’s press conference, stating that it has been difficult to get back the vehicles they took from the CPGs and gave to Police.

Ramjattan said he be-

lieved that far more could be done and urged that more residents become involved, especially in areas where the crime rates were high.

He also addressed the need for Community Policing Officers and Policemen and women to develop better working relationships. “Some Policemen do not like scrutiny of policing groups and that is bad, especially if you have nothing to hide. Police must be more accommodating of CPGs,” he opined.

Nevertheless, Minister Ramjattan said he was doing everything possible to address issues whereby some CPG members undertake nefarious activities and leak information to the

From page 9

criminal underworld. He noted that it was a matter of concern and key attention was paid to how these groups operate; hence, the need for coordination and objectivity in the way they were organised and how they operated.

There were over 5765 CPG patrols for 2017. The CPGs also have a membership of 4304 and have assisted the Police in making over 50 arrests in serious cases. Members will be recognised for the roles they played in the discovery of illegal aircraft and airstrips in Guyana’s hinterland regions.

The anniversary of the CPGs will be observed between March 1 and April 21.

news

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tuesDAY, march 6, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Manganese plant

Forestry Commission anticipates 500 Guyanese expected to be more markets in 2018 employed when construction begins

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he Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) is hoping to strengthen its markets during the course of this year, and has already commenced discussions to regain access to the United Kingdom (UK) for the marketing of Greenheart and other products.

According to the GFC, there had, in 2017, been positive developments in this area, as a number of local exporters have been able to export Greenheart to the UK. Also, the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) between the European Union (EU) Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade (FLEGT), which should be finalised by June of this year, will create greater access and more lu-

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman examines the manganese mineral with Bosai’s Overseas Department Assistant General Manager, Steven Ma and Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Cui Jianchun (far right)

G

uyana Manganese Incorporated (GMI) has committed to employing a predominantly local workforce as it prepares to begin construction in July.

This announcement was made on Monday when Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman and Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Cui Jianchun visited the Matthews Ridge, Region One (Barima-Waini) mine site to conduct an assessment of the progress that has been made since GMI purchased the area from Reunion Manganese Inc (RMI) of Canada.

GMI, a Bosai Mineral Group company, is currently on track to develop the mines, plant and factories to begin extracting the mineral by early 2019. Steven Ma, Assistant General Manager of Bosai’s Overseas Department, briefed Minister Trotman and his team.

Ma noted that construction was set to begin in July and some 550 locals from the Region and across Guyana would be employed during this phase as well as the production phase. Currently, GMI is employing 20 locals in the engineering design

and survey phase.

GMI is investing US$100 million in the first phase of development. During the construction phase, the ore processing plant, washing plant, warehouses and factory will be established. The company is currently procuring equipment, Ma explained.

He pointed out that the company was facing logistics challenges in terms of moving the ore from the plant to market. While road and port facilities were identified, GMI, Ma said, is currently mapping and surveying these to design the best solution going forward.

Minister Trotman noted that the Government was committed to doing work on the road, but would do so in collaboration with the company, particularly as it related to maintenance. He also committed to discussing the sharing of facilities with bauxite company Rusal, as GMI resolved the logistics challenge.

The Minister stressed the importance of mining in Region One to GMI. “We’d like to see a resurgence in this region and so Government is very keen on getting it started,” he is quoted by the Department of

Public Information (DPI) as saying.

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

Chinese Ambassador Cui said he was proud of the example Bosai has set in Linden and charged GMI to have a similar integrated approach in Region One. “Through this project, try to push more to let the people benefit. I am concerned that we can create more jobs for the local community,” Ambassador Cui stated. He also encouraged the company to be a good corporate citizen.

GMI purchased four prospecting licences that cover an area of 45,729 acres, exploration results, mineral agreement, certain properties and infrastructure from RMI of Canada in November 2016.

The total manganese resource in Matthews Ridge is some 26 million tonnes. Ma said to produce the manganese concentrate, the company will have to mine some two million tonnes per year which will see the life of the operation lasting some 1213 years, if there were no other resources added.

T

wo men – a cheese thief and a protein-bar thief – were each sentenced to three months in jail by a San Fernando magistrate on Monday for the crime.

The men appeared separately for stealing from the same business place, JTA Supermarket in Carlton Centre, San Fernando, on Saturday.

Anthony Scott stole six protein bars valued at $137.94 from a shelf and Akim Samuel a block of cheese valued at $25.43 from a freezer.

Both pleaded guilty and represented themselves. Both men had previous convictions for similar offences. PC Mohess of San Fernando CID laid the charges. (T&T Newsday)

Moreover, the GFC has said it saw total log exports of US$14.6 million in 2017, compared to US$16.5 million in 2016. The highest revenue earner for the year was sawn lumber, which recorded US $16.5 million.

Products which saw increases in 2017 are: split wood, increasing from US$1.9 million in 2016 to US $3.6 million in 2017; and plywood, which increased from US$1.3 million in 2016 to US$1.4 million in 2017.

The Forestry Commission said the sector faced several challenges in 2017, among them being the lower overall global demand, lower prices for tropical timber products, and a general contracting of international markets.

China warns Taiwan it won’t tolerate separatist activities

C

hina said on Monday that it would never tolerate any separatist schemes for self-ruled Taiwan and would safeguard China’s territorial integrity with the aim of “reunification” with an island it considers its sacred territory. Premier Li Keqiang issued the warning in a speech at the opening of the annual session of China’s

Parliament, his stern words coming amid mounting Chinese anger over a US bill that seeks to raise official contacts between Washington and Taipei.

On Friday, China said Taiwan would only get burnt if it sought to rely on foreigners, adding to the warnings from State media about the risk of war. The US legislation, which only

needs President Donald Trump’s signature to become law, says it should be US policy to allow officials at all levels to travel to Taiwan to meet their counterparts, permit high-level Taiwan officials to enter the United States “under respectful conditions” and meet US officials. (Excerpt from

Reuters)

Uncertain future for ‘Dreamer’ immigrants as deadline passes

U

S President Donald Trump claimed Monday he was “ready to make a deal” protecting hundreds of thousands of immigrants brought to the country illegally as children, as lawmakers missed an initial deadline for resolving their fate.

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) programme that shields nearly 700,000 of the socalled Dreamers from deportation was supposed to expire on March 5, six months

T&T: 3 months Cop accidentally shoots himself jail for stealing in the leg cheese, protein bar A Police constable accidentally shot himself in the left leg while transporting a gun seized hours earlier at East Dry River, Port of Spain on Sunday night.

PCs Billingi, Bulien and Rodriguez were on mobile patrol at Clifton Hill around 10 pm when they saw a 30-year-old man from the area acting suspiciously.

They searched him and found a 9 mm pistol along with 13 rounds of ammuni-

crative market opportunities for local forest products to the European Union (EU) and other markets.

According to the Forest Commission, this nation’s forests offer a wide range of goods and services, in addition to timber. The commission plans to further explore this potential to develop these alternatives.

It said the bilateral partnership between Guyana and Norway provides a platform for exploring similar opportunities. Under that partnership, an estimated US$30 million to US$40 million have been earned annually. This, it said, indicates the level of opportunity that may be available from environmental services and non-timber production.

tion. They took him to the Besson Street Police station for questioning.

A short while later the three officers were returning to the Inter Agency Task Force in El Socorro with the gun when it accidentally went off, hitting PC Rodriguez.

His colleagues took him to the Port of Spain General Hospital, where he is warded in serious condition. (T&T

Newsday)

President Donald Trump

after Trump announced he was ending it.

But a US District Court judge issued a nationwide injunction that requires the government to allow recipients to renew their permits to live and work in the country, and the US Supreme Court declined to accept the administration’s request to intervene.

Both those developments have taken the pressure off lawmakers.

With Dreamers and advocates stressing that the immigrants remain in legal limbo -- weeks after the White House and Congress failed spectacularly to address their fate -- Trump insisted he was ready to negotiate a solution.

“It’s March 5th and the

Democrats are nowhere to be found on DACA. Gave them six months, they just don’t care,” Trump said on Twitter.

“Where are they? We are ready to make a deal!”

With courts unlikely to rule definitively on immigration before summer, and the case expected to head to the Supreme Court after that, Congress is not expected to act before the mid-term elections in November.

Immigration advocates have used the unmet deadline as an inflection point to pressure Congress and the White House.

“March 5 is the deadline Trump gave the Congress to act and they haven’t done anything,” Bruna Bouhid, a 26-year-old student and Dreamer from Tampa, told AFP as she and others marched from the Washington Mall to the US Capitol.

“We are here to make sure they don’t forget about us.”

Hundreds of activists and Dreamers descended on Washington to press lawmakers into action. Many in a crowd of chanting protesters blocked traffic near the Capitol, while others demonstrated inside congressional office buildings.

Some 87 arrests were made, US Capitol Police reported. (AFP)

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tuesDAY, march 6, 2018

Regional

Gonsalves wraps up official visit to Suriname

T

he Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, wrapped up a four-day official visit to Suriname on the weekend where bilateral issues were discussed with the President of Suriname, Desi Bouterse.

“It is a State visit to exchange ideas and to discuss agreements we have made within Caricom (Caribbean Community),” Bouterse told local journalists.

“There are also issues we wanted to discuss privately, of course, concerning the Caribbean. Because sometimes there are bottlenecks,” Bouterse added.

As an example, he mentioned the problems that a Surinamese producer is experiencing through obstacles by the Trinidadian authorities preventing him from exporting Surinamese duck meat to Trinidad and Tobago.

SVG Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves (CMC photo)

“As a government, we encourage and stimulate entrepreneurs to invest, but when they have produced, they cannot get their products on the markets in the Region. Therefore, as Caricom leaders we have to talk about these issues.

We have to determine these kinds of things within laws and regulations. There is still a lot of work to be done,” said Bouterse.

The President also said

talks were held on cooperation in the field of agriculture, trade and foreign investments in the Caricom Member States and other matters of mutual interest.

During the visit to Suriname, the Vincentian delegation toured several indigenous villages including the Maroon village of Klaaskreek in the district Brokopondo and the Amerindian village of Redi Doti in the district of Para.

(CMC)

Cuba to send workers to help in reconstruction of Dominica

D

ominica says it will soon sign an agreement with Cuba for 100 skilled workers, including engineers, as it also urged nationals living overseas with such skills to return and assist in the reconstruction of the hurricane-battered island.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said that five months after Hurricane Maria tore through the island, killing at least 30 people and causing widespread damage, there was still the need for skilled workers to help homeowners put a roof over the heads.

“We are finalising an agreement with the Government of Cuba where we will be bringing in 100 skilled men and women into Dominica to help us fix the homes and reconstruct our country,” he said, hoping that the agreement will be signed later on Monday.

“We are working on the transportation of these people into Dominica. So, we

Hurricane damage in Dominica (File photo)

will be having some engineers as part of the team and also highly skilled people…and also about 30 or so electricians to help with the re-wiring of homes across Dominica.

“Don’t let us fool ourselves, we do not have a hundred years to put a roof over people’s heads. As a matter of fact, we don’t even have many months to do so…and I am hoping we can get our Cuban friends here

in Dominica in the month of March to assist us in that very important project,” Skerrit said, as he presented funds to the Mahaut Village Council for a roof repair programme over the weekend.

But Skerrit also urged nationals with various skills residing overseas to assist, adding that many contractors have said to the Government that they are experiencing challenges recruiting skilled workers.

(Excerpt from CMC)

Brazil Judge sentences Antigua, other Caribbean islands urged Decal do Brasil executive to monitor water resources to over 10 years T

D

ecal do Brasil co-founder Mariano Marcondes Ferraz was found guilty on corruption charges and sentenced to over 10 years in prison on Monday for bribing a former executive at State-run oil company Petroleo Brasileiro to win contracts for Ferraz’s own firm.

Judge Sergio Moro found Ferraz guilty of paying US$868,450 to Petrobras’ ex-director of refining and supply, Paulo Roberto Costa, to renew at inflated prices contracts Decal do Brasil had with Petrobras to provide tanking and docking services at the Port of Suape in north-eastern Brazil.

The office of Ferraz’s lawyer said they had no comment. Group Decal, an Italian company that set up Decal do Brasil together with Ferraz, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Decal do Brasil first signed contracts with Petrobras in 2006, according to Prosecutors, and by 2012 had signed several other contracts worth a total of 423 million reais (US$130.29 million).

Ferraz was arrested in Brazil in late October 2016, but freed on three million reais bond about two weeks later.

(Reuters)

Gabriel Garcia Marquez: Why Google honoured him today

T

he legendary Colombian writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez is being celebrated by Google on what would have been his 91st birthday. The magical city of Macondo is brought to life in today’s Google Doodle which featured in his book “A Hundred Years of Solitude” Described as one of the most popular Spanishlanguage writers, and hailed as the best-known practitioner of magical realism, Marquez would have been 91 on March 6.

In addition to his work as a novelist, Marquez was also a poet, short-story writer, screen writer and journalist. Gabo, as he was also known, in 1982 became the first Colombian and only the fourth Latin American author to win the Nobel Prize

Gabriel Garcia Marquez

in Literature.

Marquez died at the age of 87 at his home in Mexico City. (Excerpt from al Jazeera)

he Barbados-based Caribbean Drought and Precipitation Monitoring Network (CDPMN) says while there is little concern over drought for the majority of the Caribbean until the end of the dry season in May 2018, Antigua and Barbuda and the Cayman Islands should closely monitor their water resources.

In its latest bulletin, the CDPMN said that St Maarten, Cuba and the ABC islands — Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire — should monitor the water resources “in

case of short-term drought that can impact agriculture, and small catchments and rivers.

“Water resources should also be monitored in Antigua in case of longer-term drought that can affect both reservoir and ground water resources.

There is also greater possibility for even more severe impacts in the ABC islands, particularly related to longterm drought,” it said.

In its March bulletin released Monday, the CDPMN said that normal to above-normal rainfall was

experienced across the eastern Caribbean island chain for January, while Trinidad was normal to moderately wet; Tobago and Dominica very to extremely wet and Grenada very wet.

CDPMN said that Barbados, St Kitts, and St Thomas were moderately wet, while St Lucia, Guadeloupe, Antigua and St Maarten were normal; and the French island of Martinique slight to moderately wet.

“Most of Jamaica was moderately wet with the western extreme very to ex-

tremely wet, while Grand Cayman was normal.

Conditions in Cuba ranged from normal in the west to exceptionally wet in the east. Belize was moderately wet in central areas to normal to the north and south,” the CDPMN noted.

Regarding drought situation, the CDPMN notes that the current situation shows that western parts of Puerto Rico and Southern Haiti are under long-term drought, while short-term drought is seen in north west Guyana.

(CMC)

Jamaica: Shooting in Marverly as St Andrew NW constituents vote

D

espite a reported shooting in Marverly Monday morning, voters in the St Andrew North Western constituency were steadily turning out to cast their ballots in the by-election.

People’s National Party (PNP) candidate for the seat, Keisha Hayle says she is encouraged by the voter turnout in the constituency so far.

“I am hopeful that I will get the votes, but if I don’t get the mandate tomorrow, I will continue working in the communities for change,” said Hayle.

She said she was expecting 8000 votes from the constituency.

The Electoral Office of Jamaica has reported that as at 11:00h Monday, 10 per cent of the more than 30,216 eligible voters in the constituency have voted. The polling station opened at 07:00h and was scheduled to close at 17:00h.

Hayle is contesting Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) legislator Nigel Clarke for what is said to be a JLP safe seat.

As it relates to any hiccups since

Police outside the Marverly Primary School polling station

polling started, Hayle told reporters that she has heard of one shooting incident in the constituency near the Marverly Primary School polling station.

“Once there’s a shooting incident it affects both candidates not just me,” she said.

Police have confirmed the incident and said it was unrelated to the ongoing election and involved a gunman and Police Officers. The lawmen are maintaining a strong presence in the Marvely community as tensions run high. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

tuesDAY, march 6, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

17

Around the World

Italy election: Populist Five Republicans "extremely Star and League vie for power worried" by Trump’s metal tariffs plan

T

he leaders of two anti-establishment parties have each claimed they have the right to govern Italy, after voters in Europe’s fourth-largest economy did not return a majority to any single party.

The Eurosceptic, populist Five Star Movement was the biggest single party with a third of the vote.

But the anti-immigrant League said it had been endorsed to run the country as part of a centre-right alliance.

Forming a government could take weeks of negotiation and coalition-building.

Former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi has resigned as leader of the governing centre-left Democratic

League chief Matteo Salvini and Five Star leader Luigi Di Maio both want to lead Italy

Party, which performed poorly, taking less than 20 per cent of the vote.

He said the party would not join a coalition with “anti-system forces” and would go into Opposition instead.

An alliance between

the far-right League and ex-Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s Forza Italia party is set to win the most seats in the Lower House of Parliament, but the League has emerged as the senior partner. It won 17.4 per cent

of the vote compared with Forza Italia’s 14 per cent.

Matteo Salvini, the 44-year-old leader of the League, said at a press conference that he intended to speak to other parties to gain a parliamentary majority.

Five Star leader Luigi Di Maio, 31, announced that his party was also open to coalition talks with other parties – this despite the party having stated the contrary in the run-up to the vote.

The gains for populists represent a political earthquake that will send shockwaves to the European Union in Brussels, BBC Europe editor Katya Adler says. (Excerpt from BBC News)

R

epublicans have raised concern about the US President’s plan to impose tariffs on metals, with the party’s top lawmaker calling for it to be scrapped.

US Speaker of the House Paul Ryan said he was “extremely worried” about the impact of a trade war, adding that it could undermine economic gains.

But Trump pushed back during a White House meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

“We’re not backing down,” he told reporters on Monday.

“I don’t think you’re going to have a trade war,” he said.

His comments came an

hour after Ryan released a statement urging the White House to reconsider its plan.

“We are extremely worried about the consequences of a trade war and are urging the White House to not advance with this plan,” Ryan’s spokeswoman AshLee Strong said.

“The new tax reform law has boosted the economy and we certainly don’t want to jeopardise those gains.”

Trump’s announcement last week that he would tax imported steel and aluminium has prompted worldwide reaction.

The World Trade Organisation (WTO) on Monday also called on member states to “stop the fall of the first dominoes” of a trade war. (Excerpt from BBC News)

North Korea’s Kim Jong-un meets Listeria outbreak: South South Korean envoys

The South Korean team (left) met North Korean officials, and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (not shown here) later hosted a dinner

N

orth Korean leader Kim Jongun has hosted a dinner for senior South Korean delegates – the first time officials from Seoul have met the young leader since he took office in 2011.

The South Korean President’s office confirmed the meeting shortly after the delegates’ arrival on Monday.

The 10-member team is in Pyongyang for talks partly aimed at

restarting dialogue between the North and the United States.

Relations between the Koreas have warmed following last month’s Olympics.

In an unprecedented move, the South Korean delegation includes two ministerial-level envoys – intelligence chief Suh Hoon and National Security adviser Chung Eui-yong.

North Korean state radio earlier

said the delegation was met at the airport by Ri Son-gwon, North Korea’s reunification chief, who led talks in the weeks before the Winter Olympics.

During the two-day visit, the South Korean group will focus on establishing conditions for talks aimed at getting rid of the North’s nuclear weapons as well as dialogue between the US and Pyongyang.

Chung had earlier told a press briefing he would deliver President Moon Jae-in’s “resolution to maintain the dialogue and improvement in relations between the South and the North... [and] to denuclearise the Korean peninsula”.

“I plan to hold in-depth discussions on various ways to continue talks between not only the South and the North, but also the North and the United States,” he added.

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday that the US would be prepared to meet North Korea, but reiterated that Pyongyang would first have to “denuke”.

However, North Korea – which has said it wants to talk to the US – said it was “preposterous” for the US to insist on preconditions. (Excerpt from BBC News)

AIPAC speakers Tributes paid to praise Saudi Arabia India disability and UAE leadership activist Javed Abidi

T

he chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations in the US has urged the pro-Israel lobbying group, AIPAC, to support Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the leadership of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Stephen Greenberg told the annual conference, under way in the US capital, on Monday that he visited both countries and was encouraged by the leaders of the UAE for their “tolerance” and “commitment to fight terrorism”.

He also urged the gathering to support bin Salman’s

efforts to change Saudi Arabia.

“Real change must be encouraged,” he said.

In his trademark strident tones, Naftali Bennett, Israel’s Minister for Education and Diaspora Affairs, said: “Israel is strong and stronger than all of its enemies combined.”

Describing Iran as the head of the octopus that needs to be attacked, Bennett, an extreme rightwing member of Israel’s security cabinet, said: “We also must not allow other countries from going nuclear. We should prevent Saudi Arabia from having nuclear power.” (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

T

ributes have been paid to Javed Abidi, the prominent Indian disability activist who has died, aged 53.

Abidi led a major protest in 1995 that led to the passing of a landmark disability law in the same year.

He was born with spina bifida – a condition where the spine and spinal cord do not develop properly – and was treated for several years.

India is notoriously disabled-unfriendly, in terms of infrastructure, attitudes and policy.

Abidi had been suffering from a chest infection for a few days and died on Sunday afternoon, his family said.

He also fought for the disabled to get access to offices, schools, public transport and polling booths. His activism was instrumental in ramps being constructed at buildings in many major Indian cities.

The 1995 disability act that Abidi campaigned for provides for one per cent reservation in all Government jobs for people with disability. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Africa’s neighbours ban meat exports

All types of processed meat have been removed from some supermarkets

S

everal southern African states have banned processed meat from South Africa after it said it had identified the source of a food poisoning outbreak.

The Government blamed the sausage known as polony for the listeria poisoning that has killed 180 people. It advised people not to eat any processed meat.

It ordered a recall of the product, prompting shops to clear their shelves.

Namibia, Mozambique, Malawi, Botswana and Zambia followed suit, all ordering a recall or suspending

imports.

The Mozambican Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security “asks that all owners of establishments that commercialise these products start to withdraw from the shelves due to the danger that this constitutes to health”, it said in a statement.

It took South Africa more than a year to trace the outbreak. There have been 948 cases of listeria poisoning in South Africa reported since January 2017, according to Reuters, which the United Nations calls the largest outbreak ever. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Former Russian spy critically ill in Britain after exposure to unidentified substance

F

ormer Russian spy Sergei Skripal, who was convicted by Russia of betraying agents to British intelligence, was critically ill on Monday after exposure to an unidentified substance in Britain, two sources close to the investigation told Reuters.

British police said two people, a 66-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman, had been found unconscious on a bench in a shopping centre on Sunday in

the southern English city of Salisbury after exposure to the unknown substance.

Both are critically ill in intensive care. Police declared a major incident.

Skripal, once a colonel in Russia’s GRU military intelligence service, was convicted in Russia of treason in 2006 but exchanged as part of a Cold War-style spy swap in 2010 on the tarmac of Vienna airport. Skripal is 66 years old. (Excerpt from Reuters)

18

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tuesDAY, March 6, 2018

ARCHIE

Delve into private matters to find a way to justify what is (March 21going on and the best way to April 19) handle the fallout. Knowledge will be the tool to help offset a mistake.

ARIES

Open up to a partner to deTAURUS velop a better rapport that will (April 20- encourage greater opportuniMay 20) ties both personally and professionally. Romance will improve a relationship.

dilbert

Offering help to one of your GEMINI peers will ensure that you get (May 21something in return when you June 20) need it. If you make your motives clear, you won’t be disappointed.

Personal changes should be welcome. Physical, mental (June 21- and spiritual alterations will July 22) result in more confidence and will encourage you to share your feelings and intentions.

CANCER

Peanuts

Find a practical plan and LEO get moving. Use your imagi(July 23- nation, not your credit card, Aug. 22) to come up with a viable solution that won’t incur debt.

Learn all you can about VIRGO anyone you are planning to (Aug. 23team up with before you make Sept. 22) a commitment. Whether the relationship is personal or professional, doing a background check is advisable.

Calvin and Hobbes

Use what you know or do LIBRA (Sept. 23- well in applying for a job or Oct. 23) providing a service that will bring in extra cash. An energetic, positive attitude will improve your prospects.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

TODAY’S WORD — HOMICIDE (HOMICIDE: HOM-ih-side: The killing of one person by another.)

Your generous spirit will SAGITTARIUS be welcomed by those need(Nov. 23ing help, but before you step Dec. 21) in, consider if you are being taken for granted and set some boundaries.

Average mark 13 words Time limit 30 minutes Can you find 22 or more words in HOMICIDE? The list will be published tomorrow.

YESTERDAY’S WORD — HUMMOCKS

hock huck husk mock much muck mush

musk ouch chum cusk scum shock shuck

smock sock such suck sumo

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

You’ll be sensitive, and it SCORPIO could result in tension between (Oct. 24you and a co-worker. Adjust to Nov. 22) whatever situation you face to avoid falling behind.

solution for Puzzle

Add a little finesse to CAPRICORN (Dec. 22- whatever job you are given.

Jan. 19) Use your imagination and incorporate a unique twist to an old idea. Hard work will bring you closer to a lifelong goal.

You’ll be tempted to take AQUARIUS on too much, causing you to (Jan. 20fall short. If you commit to the Feb. 19) offers or ideas that make the most sense, you will prosper.

PISCES Don’t sit still waiting (Feb. 20- for someone else to take the March 20) reins. Stand up and be counted. You have plenty to gain if you are astute and willing to take a chance on a promising venture.

tuesDAY, march 6, 2018

19

Triple Crown moving on with 2nd leg on April 1 T

he Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee (JJTRC) have decided that the inaugural Triple Crown will go on as planned with the second and third legs despite the washout last Sunday.

Speaking on behalf of the JJTRC, Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr told Guyana Times Sport that “We have decided to cancel the first leg [Sunday 4] due to the weather pattern and we don’t have any other dates to choose

from since April 1 is so close by so we don’t want to drift the entire event again.”

This means that the second leg on April 1 at the Port Mourant Turf Club and the third and final leg at the Rising Sun Turf Club will remain as scheduled.

In all there are seven events carded on race days with in excess of $20M up for grabs.

Additionally, free kites will be distributed to the first 1,000 turfites that enter the Port Mourant

Turf Club on Easter Sunday where there will be a double celebration.

The grand Triple Crown raffle that was recently rolled out is still on going with the first prize is a brand new Nissan Tida motorcar.

According to the horse racing calendar, the next scheduled event is the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club’s Post-Phagwah meet on March 18 at Bush Lot Farm.

The action will begin at Port Mourant Turf Club

Youth cricketers targeted in Player Development Programme C

ricket West Indies (CWI), through the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) hosted a player development programme at the Chetram Singh Centre of Excellence, La Bonne Intention (LBI) on Monday March 5, 2018 which was geared to empower the national under-15 squad.

The one-day seminar attracted staff of the GCB, CWI Player Development Manager, Ayana Cooper; Child Protection Officer, Orette Francois; Ministry of Education’s Unit of Allied Arts representative Nicholas Fraser a n d the 20-member national un-

A

ustralia needed just 22 balls and 20 minutes of play on the fifth day at Kingsmead to secure a 118run triumph over South Africa in the opener of their four-match series on Monday.

The visitors required a Quinton de Kock held up Australia before he was last dismissed for 53

From left to right seated in photo: Nicholas Fraser; Ayana Fraser; Orette Francois, Manager of U-15 squad Latchman Yadram; Coach Winston Smith along with the National U-15 20-member squad

der-15 squad where valuable information on Child Protection and mental skill

empowerment were shared.

During the session, Fraser and Francois pre-

sented very informative presentations on what is child abuse, neglect, physical

abuse and emotional abuse.

Players were also taught about their responsibilities

and rights as well as the laws of Guyana with reference to abuse.

Additionally, CWI Mental Skill Coach, Guyanese Shabakie Fernandes, presented a number of interactive sessions with the target group, which included essential topics of Coach Ability and attitude, readiness and goal setting as well as building confidence and composure.

The U-15 players were very receptive, and indicated that the information shared will help them to effectively execute their skills in a match setting, by assisting them to raise their production level and win matches.

118-run victory

single wicket to secure success after South Africa resumed on 293 for nine, chasing an improbable victory target of 417.

Five runs were added by the home side before Quinton de Kock was hit on the back pad and trapped leg before wicket by Josh Hazlewood (361) as he tried to launch the ball over the boundary. Mitchell Starc earlier had a chance to complete a hat-trick with the first ball of the day after being denied by bad light on Sunday but bowled down the leg side to De Kock, who was eventually out for 83 after adding two to his overnight tally.

Morne Morkel was not out on three as Starc (4-75) finished with nine wickets in the match. “It was a nice way to start, said victorious skipper Steve Smith afterwards. “The first test in a series is always important and the way we played was a real plus.”

Australia’s win has been overshadowed by a heated off-field exchange between players at the

tea interval on the fourth day, which the International Cricket Council (ICC) are investigating, as well as a charge for spinner Nathan Lyon.

CCTV footage from the players tunnel showed Australia vice-captain David Warner and home wicketkeeper De Kock involved in a fiery exchange as players climbed the stairwell to their dressing rooms during the break.

The video shows Warner being restrained by Australia batsman Usman Khawaja and spin bowler Lyon as he directs a verbal barrage at De Kock, who left the field as South Africa’s notout batsman at the same time as the Australians. (Reuters)

SCOREBOARD

Australia 1st Innings 351 South Africa 1st Innings 162 Australia 2nd Innings 227 South Africa 2nd Innings (target: 417 runs; overnight 293-9) AK Markram c †Paine b Marsh 143 D Elgar c †Paine b Starc 9 HM Amla lbw b Hazlewood 8 AB de Villiers run out (Warner/Lyon) 0 F du Plessis* b Cummins 4 TB de Bruyn c †Paine b Hazlewood 36 Q de Kock† lbw b Hazlewood 83 VD Philander c †Paine b Starc 6

KA Maharaj b Starc 0 K Rabada b Starc 0 M Morkel not out 3 Extras (b-2, lb-3, nb-1) 6 Total (All Out; 92.4 Overs) 298 Fall of wickets: 1-29 (D Elgar, 6.5 ov), 2-39 (HM Amla, 10.5 ov), 3-39 (AB de Villiers, 11.6 ov), 4-49 (F du Plessis, 16.3 ov), 5-136 (TB de Bruyn, 42.1 ov), 6-283 (AK Markram, 76.1 ov), 7-290 (VD Philander, 79.2 ov), 8-290 (KA Maharaj, 79.5 ov), 9-290 (K Rabada, 79.6 ov), 10-298 (Q de Kock, 92.4 ov) Bowling Starc 18-2-75-4 (nb-1), Hazlewood 15.4-2-61-3, Lyon 32-7-86-0, Cummins 15-3-47-1, Marsh 7-2-21-1, Smith 5-3-3-0

20

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tuesDAY, march 6, 2018

Scotiabank Junior Table Tennis Invitational

Bissu upsets Wong for U-18 title

W

ith every final Niran Bissu seems to be improving his racket-wielding ability and he reaped a tremendous reward by defeating number one seed Miguel Wong in straight sets to win the boys’ 18 and under title at the Scotiabank sponsored Junior Table Tennis Invitational tournament on Sunday.

Organised by the Titans Table Tennis club and staged at the Queen’s College Auditorium, Bissu stuck to his plans and soared to a straight set victory winning 11-7, 11-9 and 11-6.

The third-place battle was more drawn out as Jamal Nicholas held his nerve to win 11-9, 11-9, 7-11, 11-13, 12-10 against Ashish Persaud.

Bissu also won the 15 and under title which was played on a round-robin ba-

Niran Bissu collects one of his awards from Rufus James

sis; he came ahead of Isaiah Layne and Kaysan Ninvalle.

The girls’ category was won by Nevaeh Clarkston with Thuraia Thomas and Shania Barrow in sec-

ond and third respectively.

However, Thomas turned the tables on Clarkston to win the 18 and under crown in 11-9, 11-6, 9-11 and 118. In the battle for third,

Barrow got the better of Nkechi McRae, winning 116, 7-11, 6-11 and 8-11.

Kyle Edghill making a return, had to work up a sweat to get ahead of Wong but in the end won the ‘B’ Class (Open) 11-13, 11-8, 11-4, 6-11 and 11-3 while for third Terrence Rausch 9-11, 11-2, 11-7 and 11-9 was too much for Nicholas.

Bad light forced the 21 and under category to be played this weekend.

Titans’ representative Dwain Dick in giving his overview for another successful tournament hosted in two weekends expressed his delight in the growth of the young players at the club and hopes the competitions serves as ample preparation for the regional junior and cadet championships which are scheduled for April 2 to 10 in Cuba.

GFF Elite League III…

Buxton United, Victoria Kings

secure wins V

ictoria Kings and Buxton United were the latest Elite League teams to find themselves on winner’s row after defeating New Amsterdam United and Milerock United, respectively, on Sunday night at

Dindyal retains Enterprise SC presidency Aubrey Gibson

Sitting left to right are the Executive Members Vishal Persaud, Chandrapaul Tickaram, EBSC President Parmanand Dindyal, Rajesh Balram and Jai Kishun. Back (L-R): Rohan Mangal, Rameez Khan, Pradesh Balkishun and Travayne Sheoprashad

O

n Sunday last, the Enterprise Busta Sports Club held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) that resulted in Parmanand Dindyal being

re-elected as President for the second consecutive year.

Dindyal, along with his Vice President, Rajesh Balram and Secretary, Chandrapaul Tickaram were

the only Executive Members that returned. Rounding out the Executive team is Vishal Persaud who was elected as the Treasurer, and Jai Kishun, who claimed the

post of Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer. The Committee Members selected were Travayne Sheoprashad, Pradesh Balkishun, Rameez Khan and Rohan Mangal.

the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Ground at Base Camp Ayangana.

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) League which is in its third year saw Kings brush aside New Amsterdam 3 – 0 in the curtain raiser while Buxton held on to a narrow 1 – 0 win to close off the double header.

Kings made their intentions clear quite early with as Aubrey Gibson scored in the first minute against New Amsterdam to push

his goal-scoring tally to six, which heads the League.

Alden Lawrence joined the party in the 36th minute then completed a double when he scored in the 66th minute.

That victory pushed Victoria Kings to 12 points and on top of the 10-team table from five games.

Trailing are GDF, Den Amstel, Western Tigers and Fruta Conquerors.

In the feature match of the night Keavon Durant scored the decider in the 43rd minute for Buxton United as the squad recorded their second win in five matches.

Sadly for the Linden based side, Milerock, it was their third defeat in four games. The team’s only win came when they needled Buxton United last week.

Meanwhile, the Elite League will continue on Friday March 9 at the Tucville Community Ground with another double header.

Cougars will face Western Tigers from 17:30 hours then while Den Amstel and Fruta Conquerors clash in the second encounter from 19:30 hours.

Milo Schools Football 2018…

Final 16 decided

F

rom 24 teams, it is now down to the final sixteen in the sixth annual Milo Schools Football Championship as the round-robin matches came to a conclusion on Sunday at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue.

Based on the point standings, three-time defending champions Chase Academic Foundation, Annandale Secondary, Morgan’s Learning Centre, Purse Masters, Sir Leon’s Lesson, Uitvlugt Secondary, Buxton Youth Development, Buinnness School,Christia nburg Wismar Secondary , Vergenoegen Secondary, Masters Academy and Lodge Secondary would have quali-

The group fixtures came to an end on Sunday and Linden’s Christianburg Wismar Secondary are certain of a spot in the round-of-sixteen

fied as the top two teams in their groups.

The Bishops’ High, Ann’s Grove, St. Roses High and

Friendship would have also made the cut due to being

the highest third-place finishers.

Sunday’s results saw Uitvlugt hammering Cummings Lodge 11-2.

Ruben Danty (10th, 23rd and 50th) was the chief destroyer with Jonathan Leitch (19th and 20th) and Scion Prince (21st and 26th) each scoring braces.

Single strikes also came from Charles Benn (14th), Tadius Edwards (39th), Micheal McKend (55th) and Moses Best (56th). On the opposing side was Nathaniel Williams (28th) and Keno Todd (53rd).

Morgan’s learning Center needled Pure Master through Derwin George (14th) while Christianburg Secondary were also winners

when they beat Annandale 2-0 thanks to a double from Jermaine Mason in the 37th and 48th minutes.

Action in the business-end of the tournament is set to intensify in the bid to secure the first place prize of $500,000 which goes towards a school project. Second to fourth, will receive $300,000, $200,000 and $100,000 respectively which also go towards school projects.

The under-18 tournament is collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health under the theme, “there is no excuse for violence” will continue this weekend at the aforementioned venue.

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sports

BCB honours national stars

“T

he Management of the Berbice Cricket Board are very proud of you for being outstanding ambassadors of Berbice and for keeping the ancient county’s flag flying high. As long as I head the Berbice Cricket Board, every hero in Berbice Cricket would be recognised and honoured.” Those were the words of newly elected President Hilbert Foster as he gave the feature address at a Special Ceremony to honour four outstanding Berbice Cricketers.

The BCB with sponsorship from the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS and its ten cricket teams, honoured Shimron Hetmyer, Anthony Bramble, Veerasammy Permaul and Romario Shepherd.

Hetmyer was honoured for becoming the county’s 17th Test Player and for also playing One Day International and 20/20 for the West Indies.

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The awardees pose with Berbice Cricket Board officials after the ceremony

Park Cricket Club was honoured for becoming the latest Berbicians to gain selection on the West Indies ‘A’ Team. Veteran left arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul and wicket keeper Anthony Bramble both of the Albion Cricket Club were honoured for their outstanding performances for Guyana during the year Four-Day West Indies Cricket Board Tournament.

Permaul was the highest wicket taker with 50 wick-

ets which included fourfive wicket hauls. Bramble was the best wicket keeper with 45 dismissals which consists of 42 catches and 3 stumping.

Foster expressed disappointment that Hetmyer had not been honoured to date by the Berbice Cricket Board as it was since early 2017 that he made his Test Debut.

He also took the West Indies Selectors to task for failing to recognise the

successes of both Berbice Players with at least a West Indies ‘A’ Team selection. Selection to the West Indies Team should be done solely on the basis of performance, fitness and personal discipline and both players have ticked each one of the boxes, Foster stated.

The Players were reassured BCB would support them all the way and were urged to keep knocking down the door with continued outstanding perfor-

mance. Shepherd, who was represented by his Coach Julian Moore was urged to grab the opportunity in the West Indies ‘A’ Team and strive to become the next West Indies Test Player in the near future.

Each of the four players received a Special Trophy and Medal from the Berbice Cricket Board. Hetmyer’s father expressed gratitude to the Board for honouring his son and the other players. Berbice Cricket, he stated was on the move and expressed confidence that the future was bright with numerous talents coming through the system, as was evidence with the Berbice Under-15 Team.

He urged the Berbice Youth Cricketers present to develop a culture of batting long and listening to the advice of senior players. Both Bramble and Permaul also expressed gratitude to the Berbice Cricket Board and stated they felt humbled to be honoured by their county board.

Windies suffer 1-run heartbreak – White Ferns go 1-0 up

N

ew Zealand battled their own nerves, and a domineering onslaught from West Indies' Kyshona Knight, to claim a hard-earned, onerun victory in the first ODI in Lincoln.

Sophie Devine's century had given the hosts 278 to defend. But when offspinner Leigh Kasperek stepped up for the final over, there were only 10 runs in the bank. The action began with two nervy singles. Then came Tremayne Smartt's dismissal which lifted New Zealand's chanc-

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21

es.

Kyshona thrust West Indies ahead with a timely boundary. But she couldn't haul in the remaining five runs that the visitors still needed off the final two deliveries.

Until those final few moments, West Indies had been well placed, led

by Stafanie Taylor's 90 off 93 balls. She struck eight fours and a six and played a key role in two

fifty-run partnerships that ushered the score to 152 for 3 in the 35th over.

New Zealand hit back through 17-year old legspinner Amelia Kerr as she took a spectacular diving catch to dismiss the dangerous Deandra Dottin and bowled Britney Cooper in consecutive overs.

When Taylor herself fell, West Indies were 215 for 6 in the 43rd over.

Kyshona took charge of the chase subsequently as she plundered three fours and a six in her 44 off 31 balls. West Indies nudged ever closer to their target until Kerr and Kasperek conceded a combined nine runs off the 47th an 48th overs to bring the equation down to 22 off 12. A costly 11-run penultimate over from Sophie Devine, however, tipped the scales back i n the

visitors' favour but not quite enough as it turned out.

Sophie Devine scored her 4th ODI century to set up the victory

Earlier, West Indies' decision to field backfired as three solid stands worth 76, 60 and 63 took New Zealand to 199 for 3 inside 35 overs. Devine was the major contributor as her third ODI century which featured eight fours and two sixes - took New Zealand towards a comfortable position even though she was one of only two batsmen who could manage a score above 27.

West Indies' spinners Taylor (3 for 54), Afy Fletcher (3 for 55) and Hayley Matthews (2 for 68) picked up eight wickets between them. But in a game of small margins, an unbeaten tenth-wicket stand of 27 off 19 between Kasperek and Huddleston

Captain Stafanie Taylor kept Windies in the game with a counterattacking half century

ensured New Zealand had just enough on the board.

New Zealand now have a 1-0 lead in the threematch series which is part of the second cycle of the Women's ODI championship. The next match is on Thursday (Wednesday night, Guyana time) at the same venue. (ESPN Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD New Zealand Women Innings (50 overs maximum) SW Bates* c Nation b Matthews 44 SFM Devine st †Aguilleira b Fletcher 108 AE Satterthwaite c Matthews b Fletcher 27 KJ Martin† lbw b Dottin 22 ML Green c Cooper b Taylor 14 LR Down c Matthews b Taylor 11 KE Broadmore b Fletcher 0 LM Kasperek not out 19 AC Kerr c Kyshona Knight b Taylor 7 LMM Tahuhu c Kyshona Knight b Matthews 1 HR Huddleston not out 16 Extras (nb-1, w-8) 9 Total (For 9 wickets; 50 Overs) 278 Fall of wickets: 1-76 (SW Bates, 14.4 ov), 2-136 (AE Satterthwaite, 23.2 ov), 3-199 (KJ Martin, 34.4 ov), 4-211 (SFM Devine, 36.1 ov), 5-233 (ML Green, 41.5 ov), 6-234 (KE Broadmore, 42.6 ov), 7-236 (LR Down, 43.5 ov), 8-246 (AC Kerr, 45.6 ov), 9-251 (LMM Tahuhu, 46.5 ov) Bowling Connell 8-0-51-0 (w2), Smartt 5-0-21-0, Dottin 7-029-1 (w-5), Matthews 10-0-682, Fletcher 10-0-55-3 (nb-1, w-1), Taylor 10-0-54-3

West Indies Women Innings (target: 279 runs from 50 overs) HK Matthews b Huddleston 18 Kycia A Knight lbw b Kasperek 38 SR Taylor* c Kerr b Broadmore 90 CN Nation run out (Bates/ Broadmore) 29 DJS Dottin c & b Kerr 11 B Cooper c Down b Kerr 9 Kyshona Knight not out 44 MR Aguilleira† c Green b Huddleston 20 ASS Fletcher run out (†Martin/Kerr) 2 TD Smartt c Green b Kasperek 5 SS Connell not out 2 Extras (lb-2, w-7) 9 Total (For 9 wickets; 50 Overs) 277 Fall of wickets: 1-31 (HK Matthews, 7.4 ov), 2-88 (Kycia A Knight, 20.4 ov), 3-152 (CN Nation, 34.3 ov), 4-167 (DJS Dottin, 36.2 ov), 5-185 (B Cooper, 38.1 ov), 6-215 (SR Taylor, 42.2 ov), 7-248 (MR Aguilleira, 45.6 ov), 8-252 (ASS Fletcher, 46.5 ov), 9-270 (TD Smartt, 49.3 ov) Bowling Kasperek 100-51-2, Tahuhu 5-0-310, Devine 7-0-44-0 (w-6), Huddleston 9-1-40-2, Broadmore 9-0-60-1 (w-1), Kerr 10-0-49-2

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

tuesDAY, march 6, 2018

GSCL Inc/ Republic Cup 2018…

Regal complete double, Ariel win O-40 title …Latif hits swashbuckling ton

By John Ramsingh

A

ttacking right-handed batsman, Richard Latif hit a whirlwind 109 to propel Regal All Stars to a comfortable 77-run victory over Success All Stars in the Open final of the annual Republic Cup organized by the Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc (GSCL Inc).

Latif hit 11 sixes and three fours to brighten the gloomy day on Sunday at the Malteenoes Sports Club ground after Regal All Stars took first strike in the 20-overs a-side affair.

When the innings started, Latif was a spectator at the none strikers end

Captain of Regal Masters, Mahendra Hardyal (left) receives the winning trophy from President of the GSCL Inc, Ian John

cashed in with a breezy 7-ball 31 (5x6) but did not carry on as did Kumar

ter Budhu came back with the ball to claim 3/31 and was supported by Pritvinath

Mohamed Rafeek Ali (right) collects the Masters Over-40 winning trophy

when his opening partner, Sachin Singh took 19 runs off the first over sent down

by Dianand Singh. After Sachin was dismissed for 25 (6x4), Latif took over with some big shots that cleared the damp ground easily.

Sewchand Budhu also

Bishundial who was unbeaten on 49 (5x6; 1x4) when the overs expired. In the onslaught, Dyaram Ramnauth who was by far the most successful bowler picked up 2 for 12 from 4 overs.

Success All Stars were then restricted to 174-9 af-

Motielall 2/8 and Bishundial 2/13. Yoraj Premraj almost single-handedly took the game away with a fiery 17ball 51 (8x6) down the order but with the top order back in the hut, it was a difficult task. Ramnauth was not out on 34 (2x6; 2x4) in the end

while Chien Gittens made 27 (3x6; 1x4) at the beginning of the stiff chase. Latif was later adjudged the Man of the Match.

In the Masters Over-45 final, Regal Masters were pushed by Mike’s Wellman but eventually came out victors by three wickets with 12 balls to spare in the exciting grand finale of the day.

Regal Masters won the toss and invited Mike’s Wellman to bat. The men in blue were quickly reduced to 9 for 2 in the fourth over before going on to make a competitive 176 for 6 from their 20 overs. It took a courageous third wicket partnership of 89 between Lloyd Ruplall and Jagdish Persaud to repair the early damage and give Wellman a shot at the title.

Ruplall was in a pugnacious mood and hit the top score of 64 (7x6; 2x4) while Persaud was more sedate in his 35 (3x6; 3x4). When they were dismissed, Wayne Jones came and asserted himself with a brave innings of 32 not out (2x6; 2x4).

Bowling for Regal Masters, Motielall Chumandatt (215) and Saheed Mohamed (2-37) did the bulk of the damage.

The eventual champions then set about the run chase in a clinical manner with Mahesh Chunilall and Mahendra Hardyal putting on 60 runs. Chunilall who started the ball rolling made 35 (4x6; 1x4) while Hardyal who opened up after a cautious start made 41 (4x6; 3x4). Wellman’s Hardat Nandan who picked up 2 for 44 was looking threatening but Mohendra Arjune and

Saheed Mohamed counterattacked.

Arjune made 28 (2x6; 2x4) but was dismissed chasing quick runs.

However, Mohamed stuck around and eventually hit the winning boundary to finish unbeaten on 37 (3x6; 3x4) with Regal Masters 180 for 7 with two overs still in the bag.

Mohamed was named Man of the Match as Regal duly completed the double.

In the first final of the day, Ariel Masters beat Success Masters in the Over-40 category by seven wickets in a one-sided affair.

After a late start due to early morning rain, Success Masters who had first strike made a paltry 102 for 9 from their allotment of 20 overs with only Hackim Majeed making 29 (1x6; 2x4) and Baldeo Muller getting 26 not out (2x6; 2x4) due to tight bowling.

Man of the Match, Dharam Persaud was the leading bowler with 3 for 23 from four overs and was admirably supported

by Peter Persaud with 2/22 (4 overs). In the run chase, Ariel Masters romped to 103 for 3 from 10.5 overs to win with 9.1 overs still remaining. Rocky Ali marked his timely return to competitive cricket with 22 not out (2x6; 1x4) but it was Ejaz Mohammed who made a rapid 43 (4x6; 2x4) that accelerated the formality.

Raymond Karim

Lloyd Ruplall repaired the early damage with a well composed innings of 64

picked up one wicket.

The event was the GSCL Inc’s first for the year and was used to introduce the year-end extravaganza, the Prime Minister’s T20 Softball Cup 2 which will be staged from October 26 to 28.

Teams also used the day’s activities for adequate warm-up ahead of the March 16 to 18 Orlando Cup International Softball Tournament.

UG Sports to run off at Leonora

The National Track and Field facility at Leonora will once again host the University of Guyana annual Track and Field Championships

T

he University of Guyana (UG) will be staging their annual Track and Field Championships on March 14 at the Leonora Track and Field Stadium from 10:00h. While the customary field at the Turkeyen campus is still not in a position to hosts the inter-faculty feud, Leonora for the second year will be home.

Students are being reminded that registration should be completed by noon Friday (March 9) as no registration will be accommodated on the day of the championship.

Transportation will be provided and is expected to leave Turkeyen at 07:30h.

Awards will be presented to athletes who finish in the first to third positions in the individual events as well as the first to third in the relays.

As is the tradition a march past competition will be the opening event with judges awarding prizes for the largest contingent, the best banner and the most uniformed faculty.

tuesDAY, march 6, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

23

ICC/ World Cup Qualifiers 2018

Favourites Windies begin campaign against UAE T

he two-time world champions West Indies start the qualifiers today against the UAE who won their opening encounter against PNG on Sunday comfortably.

The Caribbean side maybe described as a group of players hurting big time and unhappy to be playing the International Cricket Council (ICC) Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2018 because they

Chris Gayle going hard in the nets ahead of today’s clash (Windies media photo)

believe they belong among the top sides.

The match which is being played at the Old Hararians Sports Club in Harare will see the West Indies getting their first chance to be among the 10 teams at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 in the tournament for the second tier ODI teams.

Windies were the champions in the first two editions of the World Cup, in 1975 and 1979, and made the final in 1983. But their graph has been on a downslide in more recent years. As a result, they are in the qualifying competition.

Many followers might expect them to just blow away the opposition, but the reality could be very different. Indeed, Windies were anything but dominant in their warm-up games.

In the first, against Afghanistan, a strong bowling performance led by the pacemen was followed by a dismal show with the bat as Windies, chasing 164, were bowled out for 110. Only two batsmen got starts then, Evin Lewis (36) and Marlon Samuels (34).

The batting didn’t get

much better in the second game, as UAE, led by returns of 4/16 from Imran Haider, the leg-spinner, stopped them at 115 in 33.4 overs. It’s another matter that UAE’s batting faltered too, wrapping up at 83 as Nikita Miller picked up 5/20 with his left-arm spin.

Chris Gayle, the star batsman, has so far scored 9 and 16, and apart from the knocks from Lewis and Samuels in the first outing, the top score has been 20, by Shimron Hetmyer against UAE. Those will be concerns for sure. Even more so because Windies start their campaign against the same opponents who shot them out for 115 and have since started the competition proper solidly with a 56-run win (DLS method) over Papua New Guinea.

UAE rode on a top score of 95 from Rohan Mustafa, the captain, and 50 from Ashfaq Ahmed to put up 221 before bowling out PNG for just 113 as Mohammad Naveed ran roughshod over the top order on his way to returns of 5/28, his career-best one-day international haul.

Newcomers shine at Georgetown Grand Prix T

he new batch of karters left a strong impression about the future of motor sports as they produced some sterling performances at the first round of the Georgetown Grand Prix held on Saturday.

Two groups of eager and exciting youngsters, all below the age of 15 and as young as five years old, lit up the GT Motorsports track like never before.

The usually fun-filled 60cc category, sponsored by Sun Burst Juices, was split into two groups- the Kids Cup, which catered for the more experienced youths, and the Baby Cup, which featured newcomers.

Nathan Rahaman, who ended the last season strongly, finished as champion driver, working his way to two wins and a second place finish. Jeremy Tenpow, who was crowned overall champion of the Kids Cup last year, had a night of mixed returns.

The Baby Cup, which was based on

Mikhail Persaud was champion driver of the 125cc Seniors (GT Motorsports Photo)

lap time rather than position, was a very competitive affair, with Nicholas Sawh, who could hardly contain his excitement on the podium, emerging as

From left: Nathan Rahaman, Caleb Paul, Ben Phang and Nicholas Sawh (GT Motorsports Photo)

champion driver.

The enthusiastic youth won two races, clocking fastest times of 35.772s and 35.363s The 125cc Juniors was a very competitive field, with Gianni Carpenter copping the champion driver award after chalking up a win and a third place.

However, it was Faraud Mohamed who impressed on the night, earning a podium spot in all three races Stefan Jeffrey, with two wins, lifted the champion driver title in the Easy Cup Super, with Dharmendra Dharmo winning the other race. Shan Seejatan ruled the roost in the 125cc Masters, walking away with the champion driver accolade after two wins and a second.

Mikhail Persaud continued his great driving from 2017, winning the champion driver award in the 125cc Seniors by winning two races, while Trinidad and Tobago’s Kristian Boodoosingh won the other race and also claimed a second place finish.

Key players

R o h a n Mustafa (UAE): The 29-year-old UAE captain might not have the greatest numbers, but is one of the key cogs in the team’s wheel.

He has the ability to give his team good starts, a s he did against PNG with a 136-ball 95, and is a useful off-spinner who often provides key breakthroughs and usually keeps the opposition quiet. If the big-hitting Windies batsmen get going, Mustafa and Ahmed Raza, the left-arm spinner, will be crucial for UAE’s chances.

Chris Gayle (Windies): The big man isn’t quite the unstoppable force he once was, but every once in a while, he breaks loose to show what sort of damage he can still do. He hasn’t

Windies Captain Jason Holder is determined for opening success against the UAE (Windies media photo)

taken off in Zimbabwe yet, but UAE will be wary of him for sure, knowing full well that if Gayle gets going, the game could go out of their hands very quickly. (ICC)

GCB/ Inter-county U-17 Tournament 2018…

National U-15 team face Berbice in opening round

T

he Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) will host the annual Under-17 inter-county tournament which bowls off on Wednesday March 7 at two venues.

Throughout the fourteam tournament which concludes on Sunday March 11, only the Lusignan Community Centre ground and the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground Bourda will be used.

In Round one, Demerara hosts Essequibo at Lusignan while defending champions, Berbice will face GCB Select Under-15 team at Bourda. Both matches begin at 09:30h.

See squads below; Berbice U-17: Jevon Schultz (Captain), Ricardo Ramdehol, Fawaz Gafoor, Jarron France, Marvin Prashad, Nigel Deodat, Seon Glasgow, Chanderpaul Govindan, Mohabir Seeraj, Abdul Ramsammy, Gourav Ramesh, Doorasammy Mahadeo, Saif Amoi, Quincy Auldles, Delbert Hicks (Manager) and Andre Percival (Coach).

Demerara U-17: Sachin Singh (Captain), Navindar Persaud, Garrick Persaud, Hemnauth Dindyal, Dwayne Dick, Andre Seepersaud, Andrew Samaroo, Yeudisteer Persaud, Sauraf Singh,Nyron Bissu, Marlon Bole, Joshua Reddy, Jason Holder, Trevon Charles, Ronald Sarjoo (Manager) and Orin Bailey (Coach).

Essequibo U-17: Lance

Zeynul Ramsammy

Roberts (Captain), Sheldon Charles, Ameer Singh, Wasim Mohamed, Azim Mohamed, Saeed Hakh, Badesh Parsotam, Mahesh Ramnarine, Romario Stephen, Lallchand Seeram, Manoj Basrath, Sylvian, Williams, Arvind Permaul, Jason Payne, Nazeer Mohamed (Manager) and Nandkishore Andrews (Coach).

Select Under-15: Mahendra Gopilall, Nicholas Rajpat, Mavendra Dindyal, Shamar Yearwood, Zeynul Ramsammy, Tomanni Caesar, Chanderpaul Ramraj, Romel Datterdeen, Ronaldo Souten, Jonathan Rampersaud, Jeremey Sandia, Zachary Jodah, Revoldo Phillips, Shafeik Khan, Isai Thorne, Antwone Alexander, Thaddeus Lovell, Ajay Gainda, Gladewin Henry and Safie Shazad. Latchman Yadram is the Manager and Winston Smith is the Coach.

tuesDAY, march 6, 2018

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

guyanatimesgy.com

ICC/ World Cup Qualifiers 2018

Favourites Windies begin campaign against UAE Pg 23

All eyes will be on the former champions Windies as they look for a place in the 2019 World Cup in England (ICC photo)

GSCL Inc/ Republic Cup 2018…

Saheed Mohamed hits the winning six that gave Regal the coveted double (John Ramsingh photos)

Regal complete double, Ariel win O-40 title …Latif hits swashbuckling ton Pg 22

Richard Latif on the go during his matchwinning 109 on Sunday at Malteenoes

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