Guyanatimes 13 october 2017

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

Issue No. 3360

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Friday, October 13, 2017

PRICE

No reduction in VAT - tax chief

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

2 nabbed P11 at city hotel with unlicensed gun, ammo

Page 3

...as Private Sector cries: “What we don’t want is an overtaxed sector”

Marcus Bisram to be extradited to Guyana – US court orders Govt tears down houses in Sophia squatting area Page 5

Moblissa double murder

State accepts accused’s manslaughter plea P14 ...says killed stepsister, her son after being accused of rape

Page 10

Firing Deputy Solicitor General “unconstitutional” – fmr PSC Chairman P9 …says justice was not carried out

Police shoot bandit after Parika supermarket robbery P2 The Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) Anti-Squatting Task Force demolished several homes and businesses that were on Government reserve lands in A Field, Sophia, Greater Georgetown

Business Summit 2017

“Good life” nothing but a slogan – Ram

…urges Private Sector to have more Page 11 “spine” on Govt excuses

Businessman shot dead at Kitty hotel Page 5

‘Special company’ to find jobs for sacked GuySuCo workers – Minister Sharma P7

2 news Police shoot bandit after Parika supermarket robbery friDAY, october 13, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

‌accomplice also in custody

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olice in the D Division (West Bank Demerara-East Bank Essequibo) are investigating a robbery which left one teenager shot after the

young man and his accomplice stormed a Parika, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) Chinese supermarket on Wednesday evening in an attempt to raid the business

establishment.

This is according to Divisional Commander Leslie James, who told Guyana Times that at about 20:00h, two teenagers en-

tered the Golden World Supermarket located at Lot 302 Parika Highway, EBE, just as the proprietor was in the process of closing up her entity. It was then that

they processed to carry out the act.

The businesswoman who was identified as Li Lou, reported to Police that just moments later, one of the

The two perpetrators who were taken into custody

young men whipped out a gun and pointed it at her, while instructing his accomplice to empty the cash register. After securing an undisclosed sum of cash and a quantity of cellphone cards, the duo then fled the scene.

Without hesitation, Luo ran over to the Parika Police Station, which is located in close proximity to her establishment, and related what transpired. Police responded promptly, resulting in them pursuing the suspects into the vicinity of Bushy Park, and after failing to heed warnings, one of the young men was shot and taken into custody.

During interrogation at the Parika outpost, the injured bandit, who is said to be a 17-year-old Zeelugt resident, revealed the names of two other accomplices. This led to a continued search within the same area, during which the ranks were able to zoom in on and arrest another 17-year-old perpetrator who was found hiding in a ditch and covered in mud.

The injured Zeelugt bandit was taken for medical attention while remaining under Police guard, whereas his accomplice is still in custody, assisting with investigations.

Meanwhile, the Commander told this publication that the weapon used in the attack was retrieved but is believed to be a toy. As such, a ballistics test is being conducted.

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BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, October 13 – 12:00h-13:30h and Saturday, October 14 – 13:30h-15:00h.

No reduction in VAT – tax chief ...as Private Sector cries: “What we don’t want is an overtaxed sector”

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: October 13 – 11:10h-12:40h and Saturday, October 14 – 12:35h-14:05h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Thundery to heavy rain showers with sunny intervals can be during the better part of the day, while sunny weather can be expected in the late afternoon hours. Clear skies can be expected in the evening, with temperatures expected to range between 25 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East South-easterly to South South-easterly and Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 10:54h and 23:22h reaching maximum heights of 2.17 metres and 2.22 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 04:11h and 16:49h reaching minimum heights of 0.92 metre and 1.11 metres respectively.

wednesDAY, October 11, 2017

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2017

DAILY MILLIONS 05 08 09 16

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

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Members of the taxation panel at "Guyana Business Summit 2017" during the fiery discussion

he Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has not been privy to any planned reduction in the rate of Value Added Tax when the Budget for 2018 is presented in six weeks’ time.

The bombshell was dropped on Thursday, the final day of ‘Business Summit 2017’, when GRA Commissioner-General Godfrey Statia formed part of a fiery discussion panel on ‘Taxation in Guyana’ and was joined by vocal social activist and Chartered Accountant Christopher Ram, the Inter-American Development Bank’s (IDB’s) Mark Wenner, Opposition Member of Parliament Anil Nandlall, and Private Sector Representative Deodat Indar.

Statia is in fact advocating a reduction in the personal income taxes paid by workers—a measure that can in fact alleviate the inherent loss of disposable income, a result of previous increases in other taxes paid.

The panel discussion followed a presentation by People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Chief Whip Gail Teixeira, who had lamented the more than $10 billion taken out of the pockets of the average Guyanese as a result of the 2017 Budget taxation measures.

The CommissionerGeneral, during his time in the spotlight and under interrogation from participants of the Guyana

Business Summit 2017, was quick to point out that he was in no way a policy representative of the Government, but was at the summit as a technocrat.

During his exchange on the panel discussion, he also criticized its content, saying he had attend the forum under the impression that “it would have been an intellectual discourse on how we go about” solving the problems that exist within the system.

According to the Commissioner-General, two-thirds of the way into the allotted time for ‘taxation,’ the discussions were yet to centre on the ‘meat of the matter.’

Lambasting the forum, the Commissioner General said the administration and its related agency must first be apprised of the tax-related woes that impede the Private Sector in order to be able to formulate a plan to address them. He reminded those in attendance at the Marriott Hotel that “there is no quick fix.”

Turning his attention to the ever-controversial application of the Value Added Tax (VAT), the Commissioner General told participants, inclusive of business leaders and elected representatives, “As far as I have been told, there has not been any further consideration in reduction of VAT.” Statia’s comments were not contradicted by Minister within the Finance Ministry,

Jaipaul Sharma, and came a short time after Teixeira had told the Business Forum of an Opposition proposal for the rate to be reduced to 12 per cent— initially promised by the Coalition Administration.

Responding to the various aspersions cast as a result of the imposition of a range of new tax measures in the 2016 and 2017 budgets -- which has led to the annual erosion of some $10 billion in disposable income -- Statia said he would have preferred to see a reduction in the income taxes paid.

The CommissionerGeneral told those in attendance that the benefits the administration was looking to see passed on with its reapplication of VAT on a range of commodities did not filter down to the ordinary man.

“I would have preferred a decrease in personal taxation, and let the increased disposable income cover that (shortfalls)… There is a mixture of things to be done,” Statia cautioned, as ideas were bandied on

which of the several taxes charged should be reduced.

IDB Representative on the panel, Dave Wenner, had used his time to lament that Guyana is listed—tied with Haiti—as having the highest business taxes.

Fiery discussion

The fiery discussion panel came subsequent to a presentation to the Business Summit by PPP General Secretary Gail Teixeira—on behalf of Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo—who updated the Summit on some 124 proposals that the political Opposition has submitted to Parliament for inclusion in the 2018 Budget.

The proposals by the political Opposition indicated to the Business Summit that the Opposition was looking to have Government, through its parliamentary motion, ‘restore the purchasing power of the people by removing the imposition of VAT on zero-rated items, new fees and licences imposed in the 2016 and 2017 Budgets. turn to page 9

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friDAY, october 13, 2017

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

Women and violence

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or the year 2017, we have reported and read countless stories of some form of gender-based violence; with women especially being at the receiving end of the beatings; in some cases, even ending up dead. Even though the Government and other stakeholders have been engaged in various efforts to bring the situation under control, it seems as if the killings are far from over.

Only recently, a young Policewoman was chopped to death by her alleged lover in Berbice. It was reported that the 39-year-old Sergeant was killed in her home following a dispute with the man, who eventually committed suicide.

Earlier this year, there was the brutal murder of 37-year-old Lindener Shenika London. She was stabbed multiple times by her husband at her home at Amelia’s Ward, Mackenzie, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

In another recent case, a 26-year-old teacher, Tishaun Bess, was found dead in a house at La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara. Her lifeless body was found hanging from the ceiling of her apartment days after she went missing. Relatives claimed that the relationship shared by the woman and her partner was an abusive one.

Additionally, Dhanwantie Ram, 29, a Parika, East Bank Essequibo resident, was found strangled on a sofa, with a bed sheet wrapped around her neck. The woman’s husband of 12 years was arrested for the crime.

It was reported that owing to the abuse, the woman was forced to leave her marital home with her three children a few days before she was killed.

These, of course, are just a few of the latest in a slew of cases that have taken the country by storm. The victims’ stories have been heartbreaking, as many of them were killed after years of abuse and perhaps with very little help from those who should have provided the much-needed support mechanisms. The bottom line is that something must be done urgently to arrest the situation, as it is clear that what currently obtains has not been very effective.

We believe that there is an urgent need for all stakeholders, led by the Government, to commence a national discourse on the issue once more. The aim should be to reassess and modify current strategies taking into account the lessons learnt from past experiences. While protection orders have been effective to an extent, quite often the abusers do not abide by them; hence, the need to undertake an urgent review of mechanisms currently in place to protect women from being killed.

Violence against women and children has tremendous costs to communities and nations, and can remain with women and children for a lifetime.

If not dealt with effectively, it can also pass from one generation to another. Numerous recommendations were made to the previous and current Administrations, yet nothing much has been forthcoming. It is, therefore, time for policymakers and other stakeholders to revisit the issue and come up with practical solutions to tackle the scourge in a holistic manner with greater focus on the root of the problem.

Over the years, the United Nations has been pushing countries towards implementing proactive measures to combat domestic violence. These measures have included criminalising gender-based violence, massive public awareness campaigns and providing training to equip both men and women to act as first responders and to support victims of the scourge at the community level.

Additionally, this newspaper had stated before that one of the greatest challenges Guyana faced in countering domestic violence was in changing the attitudes of service providers – such as Police, Magistrates, social workers, and healthcare providers. Everyone needs to be proactive in their response to the scourge.

Disneyland is seen as wildfires rage in Anaheim, California (@Kennya.Boulter/Via Reuters)

Creating a conundrum for efficacy of NDCs (Part 2)

Dear Editor, The Grove/Diamond area is another massive housing scheme built by the PPP/C Administration, where each constituency boundary has to be clearly defined and reflect the necessary balance for size and population in the LAA. Previous approaches placed the boundaries separating some constituencies as the centre of a particular treet, which can have significant local government councillor implication if not properly defined, since the best choice person can be residing on the other side. These issues must be resolve with inclusive consultations long in advance of any election.

As for the La Parfaite Harmonie massive new housing scheme, the Local Government Election in

2016 was indeed a farce in this area, because of unsettled boundary issues.

The resulting ‘tie’ vote that took place in that Local Authority Area was due to related comedies of errors by the Guyana Elections Commission.

The Malgre Tout/Meer Zorgen NDC is now responsible for garbage collection in the new massive Parafaite/ Harmonie Scheme, although its boundaries are not contiguous to the NDC area where the latter is situated.

(This issue will be fully dealt with later).

The boundaries that the GECOM put in place took away a substantial amount of solid area from the Canal No.1 Polder NDC. Thus the voting pattern was changed.

However, the ‘not fit and proper’ GECOM staff bun-

gled with the list of names, resulting in the removal of a key PPP/C candidate’s name from the list. It must be noted, however, that the PPP/C won the Chairman’s position at the NDC, and they are trying to get things done.

The Local Authority areas desperately need their autonomy. The elected leaders must be given the opportunity to function in the interest of the people who elected them. With valuable support from the community, particularly with the support of village elders and corporate citizens, the people, when fully connected at the grassroots level, will be able to make tremendous development in their environment.

The appointment of the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission is

pivotal for the proper running of the GECOM office.

There is serious work to get done, and most of all, it is clear that the new chairman of GECOM will have to clean up a lot of mess at the Secretariat.

Holding of the next Local Government Elections will bring out the best from all Guyanese, as the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils are preparing for the re-election of their chairpersons and vice-chairpersons. The hard working and reputable councillors, who have been doing their best for their communities under the created pressures, must do their best to nominate and vote for the best candidate.

Sincerely, Neil Kumar

Reorganisation necessary for meaningful progress in moving economy forward Dear Editor, I just looked (Wednesday afternoon) at a session of the IDB/Private Sector Commission business development summit in Guyana via live stream. A panel which included Vice President Carl Greenidge and former PM Hinds was quite interesting.

VP Greenidge’s responses to questions were particularly well informed, and demonstrated his facility with a number of issues/sectors, including market access, branding, labour availability, diversification of key sectors to include value add-

ed, air transport, and more.

But what struck me as being very positive beyond his knowledge and facility with the issues was his tone -- a very encouraging, business-friendly and honest analysis.

Now I think it is time for a Ministry of Economic Planning, which would include responsibility for trade and industry. This Ministry can be named the Ministry of Foreign Relations, Economic Planning and Business Development. This Ministry should go to Vice President Greenidge, and dissolve the current Ministry of

Business. This would be a super ministry of sorts, but Minister Jaipaul Sharma or Minister Ferguson can be reassigned as a Minister in this new Ministry to assist Greenidge.

Minister Gaskin could be assigned the Tourism and Civil Aviation portfolio.

This kind of reorganization is necessary if meaningful progress is to be made on moving Guyana’s economy forward, with Government leadership that would inspire the private sector to move beyond retail trade and re-engage in manufacturing, agriculture and

agro-processing, and other areas of productive activity based on market trends.

I am of the view that, given Vice President Greenidge’s international experience and exposure, and hopefully his knowledge of the need for high levels of professionalism and performance, his being given the responsibilities to which I refer above will go a long way towards engendering a level of innovation and creativity which our economy needs at this time.

Yours truly, Wesley Kirton

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Marcus Bisram to be extradited to Guyana – US court orders

Alleged mastermind: Marcus Bisram

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New York Judge has ruled that murder accused Marcus Bisram be extradited to Guyana.

The decision, handed down on Thursday

by Judge Peggy Kuo, marks the turning of a page in Bisram’s dogged efforts to stay clear of Guyana’s legal system.

It is understood, according to the particulars of the order, that the judge backed the extradition on the basis of the applicability of Guyana’s treaty with the United States.

She also found that the Government of Guyana substantiated its request for Bisram with adequate documents.

Pending his extradition, Bisram, has been incarcerated in a New York holding facility until the resolution of technical facets with the process. Efforts to make contact with Bisram’s local Attorney-at-Law, Sanjeev Datadin, were futile.

Bisram, 27, was charged in absentia last year for the murder of 26-year-old Faiyaz Narinedatt, a carpenter.

Narinedatt was murdered on November 1, 2016 at Number 70 Village, Corentyne, Berbice.

Bisram was the sixth person charged with the murder of the carpen-

Dead: 26-year-old Faiyaz Narinedatt

ter. He was charged along with his 39-year-old bodyguard, Orlando Dickie of Stevedore Housing Scheme, Georgetown.

Four other persons were initially charged for the carpenter’s murder. They were 39-year-old Radesh Motie, an excavator operator of Lot 124 Number

Not a whimper from Guyana Local Government Officers Union

Dear Editor, Something has to be seriously wrong with the labour union that represents the ‘fixed’ or permanent employees of the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown, and that union to which I refer is the Guyana Local Government Officers Union.

Quite recently, we saw the other union, the Guyana Labour Union, which represents the additional category of municipal employees better known as ‘unfixed’ workers, undertaking a demarche on City Hall, and under the astute leadership of Mr Carvil Duncan, they let the council’s administrators know exactly how they felt about the atrocities being committed against their members who are workers.

But for some strange reason, the Guyana Local Government Officers Union seems to have become dumb,

deaf, toothless, and completely uncaring to the hardships its membership faces each day.

Could you imagine the workers are faced, month after month after month for the past two years, with receiving their salaries late, which causes them to have to pay additional interest on loans acquired, having their electricity and water supply cut off each month due to late payments, having the hire purchase people chase after them for their monthly installments. And not a whimper is heard from this union.

The union is aware that its membership is forced to inhumanely slaughter animals at the abattoir; made to work without proper tools, without the required protective gear, and in workspaces and offices that are derelict, unsafe, and are an eyesore, but the union says not a word.

Inevitably, the Council

will have to downsize its gargantuan staff structure, but what will be interesting to note is who will get the pink slips.

Will the Council’s workers ever be properly represented against the atrocities being committed against them by their employers? And will the rights of workers be protected and collectively bargained on behalf of? Let us wait and see.

Best regards, Deodarie Putulall

74 Village; 49-yearold Harripaul Parsram of Lot 164 Number 71 Village; 18-year-old Deodatt Dutt of Lot 98 Number 71 Village; and 37-year-old Nirone Yacoob, a hire car driver of Lot 65 Number 67 Village.

Two of the accused had reportedly confessed to investigators that they were ordered by the overseas-based Guyanese businessman to kill Narinedatt, after which they dumped his body on the Number 70 Public Road to make his death seem the result of a hit-and-run accident.

They claimed Narinedatt had choked and slapped the businessman after he (Bisram) had made sexual advances towards him.

Additionally, the businessman’s mother and sister were charged and remanded to prison after they offered bribes to Police ranks to “duck the case”.

Shinella Indarally, 45,

Judge Peggy Kuo

and Mary Anne Lionel, 25, both of Lot 171 Section B, No 71 Village, Corentyne, were charged for deliberately attempting to obstruct the course of justice.

It was reported that they offered a police corporal $4 million to release the four men who were detained for the murder, and to also cease efforts to apprehend

Bisram.

A few hours after the body was discovered, it is alleged, the mastermind had gone to the Springlands Police Station and allegedly offered to pay the two officers. A constable and a corporal were arrested and placed under close arrest.

The Guyana Police Force had issued a wanted bulletin for the mastermind –giving his address as Lot 115, Section ‘A’ Number 70 Village, Corentyne, Berbice and somewhere in the United States. However, the businessman had already fled the country and returned to the US. This prompted local law enforcement to contact its overseas counterparts, and Interpol subsequently issued a wanted bulletin for Bisram. The Interpol red notice urged persons in the United States to contact the nearest Police Station, or 911, once the wanted man is sighted.

Businessman shot dead at Kitty hotel T he proprietor of a popular Durban Street, Georgetown restaurant was on Thursday afternoon fatally shot during the course of an alleged robbery outside a hotel in Kitty, Georgetown.

Dead is 64-year-old Godfrey Scipio, called “Saga”.

Guyana Times was told that “Saga” was swiftly rushed to a private city hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

According to information received, Scipio was leaving the hotel where his car was parked when he was accosted by a lone gunman on a motorcycle. While details surrounding the shooting remain sketchy, this publication was told that Scipio was shot at least once about the

Godfrey Scipio

body. This newspaper understands that the dead man’s son arrived in Guyana earlier on Thursday to visit his parents.

When Guyana Times arrived at the private city hospital, undertakers were taking Scipio’s body to the

mortuary. It was at this point that relatives positively identified their loved one which spurred sporadic outbursts of screams, with nephews and nieces shouting and questioning “why” he was killed. Speaking to this publication, a relative expressed confusion over what occurred, saying that they were trying to gather information on the shooting. This is not the first time that Scipio was shot. In April 2011, he was injured during a shootout at Cummings Lodge, Greater Georgetown when four armed men had discharged rounds.

Up to press time, information regarding the circumstances surrounding his killing was still being gathered as Police investigators hunted the possible suspects.

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Foundation

– do this instead, and they’ll be happier and more successful and don’t be soft We should tell them: Treat yourself well

By Emma M Seppälä, PhD

The point is not that we should never challenge them or that we should deprive them of opportunities for learning. The point is not to overschedule and overcommit them to the point where they don’t have opportunities to learn independent play, to be with themselves and daydream, to learn to be happy just being rather than always doing.

4. We tell our children: Play to your strengths We should tell them: Make mistakes and learn to fail

Parents tend to identify their children by their strengths and the activities that come naturally to them. They say their child is “a Maths persons”, a “people person,” or “an artist”.

But research by Stanford University’s Carol Dweck shows that this mindset actually boxes your child into a persona and makes them less likely to want to try new things they may not be good at. When a kid receives praise

primarily for being athletic, for example, they’re less likely to want to leave their comfort zone and try out for drama club. This can make them more anxious and depressed when faced with failure or challenges. Why? Because they believe that, if they encounter obstacles in a given area, that makes them “not good at” the activity.

But our brains are wired to learn new things. And it can only be a good thing to learn from our mistakes while we’re young. So instead of identifying your child’s strengths, teach them that they actually can learn anything – as long as they try.

Research by Dweck, author of Mindset, shows that children will be more optimistic and even enthusiastic in the face of challenges, knowing that they just need to give it another go to improve. And they will be less likely to feel down about themselves and their talents.

5. We tell our children: Know your weaknesses,

We also tend to think that criticism is important for self-improvement. But while self-awareness is important, parents often inadvertently teach their children to be too self-critical. If a parent tells a child that she should try to be more outgoing, for example, the child may internalise that as a criticism of her naturally introverted personality.

But research on self-criticism shows that it is basically self-sabotage. It keeps you focused on what’s wrong with you, thereby decreasing your confidence. It makes you afraid of failure, which hurts your performance, makes you give up more easily, and leads to poor decision-making. And self-criticism makes you more likely to be anxious and depressed when faced with a challenge.

Instead, parents should encourage children to develop attitudes of self-compassion – ? treating yourself as you would a friend in times of failure or pain. This doesn’t mean that your children should be self-indulgent or let themselves off the hook when they mess up. It simply means that they learn not to beat themselves up. A shy child with self-compassion, for example, will tell herself that it’s okay to feel shy sometimes and that her personality simply isn’t as outgoing as others –? and that she can set small, manageable goals to come out of her shell.

This mindset will allow her to excel in the face of challenge, develop new social skills, and learn from mistakes.

6. We tell our children: It’s a dog-eat-dog world?, so

look out for Number One

We should tell them: Show compassion to others Research shows that from childhood onward, our social connections are our most important predictor of health, happiness, and even longevity. Having positive relationships with other people is essential for well-being, which in turn influences our intellectual abilities and ultimate success.

Moreover, likability is one of the strongest predictors of

success – ?regardless of one’s actual skills. Adam Grant’s book Give & Take reports that if you express compassion to those around you and create supportive relationships instead of remaining focused on yourself, you will actually be more successful in the long term —?as long as you don’t let people take advantage of you.

Children are naturally compassionate and kind. But as psychologist Jean Twenge writes in her book Generation

By Megan Devine

Continued from Wednesday

If holding your child accountable routinely devolves into your teen saying “But I didn’t hear you!” you could have a brief discussion about paying attention and how she might listen differently next time. Remember, if you keep your cool and stay focused, everything is teachable.

To be sure your message is coming through loud and clear, remember these tips: Keep your eyes on the prize. What’s your goal?

What is the one piece of information you want to relay to your child? State your information clearly and don’t allow your child to drag you off course.

Don’t take it personally. When your child ignores you, yells at you or pretends not to hear, remember that he’s trying to feel more powerful in this situation.

Remind yourself that a power struggle or screaming match will only make things worse.

Even if you’re annoyed, keep calm and state the facts. If he tries to pull you in, turn around and leave. You don’t have to attend every fight you’re invited to.

Don’t debate your rules. If your teen lobs a zinger at you in order to start an argument, keep the conversation focused on your expectations, not on your teen’s ideas about fairness. The truth is, if you argue about your rules with your teen, it leads him to believe the rules are changeable. Instead, stick with the facts: “I know you disagree with the rules, and you’d rather not listen to me. The truth is, you don’t have to like the rules –you just have to find a way to follow them.”

Remember, keep your cool, stay focused on the issue at hand and don’t let your child knock you off topic. Believe me, your teen knows that eye rolling, muttering under his breath and having a bad attitude irritate you. He’s doing it on purpose. The more you insist that he demonstrates “active listening” (in other words, paying attention politely and acknowledging your request), the more he will fight to ignore you. Don’t go there.

Repeat this mantra: “Power struggles are never a good use of my time.”

Parenting in the age of texting

I’m personally not a fan of parenting-by-text. I know, I know: some people swear by it. Some parents even have whole conversations with their teens about rules and expectations via text.

You might even feel like, if it weren’t for texts, you’d never

Part 2

Me, young people are also becoming increasingly self-involved. So it’s important to encourage their natural instincts to care about other people’s feelings and to put themselves in other people’s shoes.

It’s true that it’s a tough world. But it would be a lot less tough if we emphasised cutthroat competition less and put a higher premium on learning to get along. (Excerpt from

psychologytoday.com)

have any contact with your child at all.

While it’s true that text messages can be a good way to keep in touch with your teen, I would encourage you to have more important conversations in person. Do the big work of presenting rules, consequences, and expected behaviour when you and your teen are in the same room. Try to stick with the phone for quick reminders and encouragement. For example, this text: “I know you want the car in the morning, so remember to get yourself home by 9,” is a better use of texting than a whole long argument about why your daughter needs to be home, threatening to take away the car, or trying to get her to engage in dialogue with you about other things.

There’s just too much room for misinterpretation, claims of “not getting that text,” and all sorts of other things that get in the way of clear, direct communication. Bottom line? Use text messages as reminders of your expectations, not as a way to discuss your expectations.

What you can control: your own response

When your child moves beyond the silent treatment and yells or fights with you, it’s even more important to control your own responses. Remember, all through The Total Transformation Program, James Lehman says, “There’s no excuse for abuse.” There’s no reason to keep engaging with your teen if they’re being verbally abusive. An effective way to deal with this situation is to say: “Don’t talk to me like that; I don’t like it. The rules don’t change just because you yell at me about them.” (Excerpt from

empoweringparents.com)

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friDAY, october 13, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

‘Special company’ to find jobs for sacked GuySuCo workers – Minister Sharma

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he Special Purpose Unit (SPU) that has been established to diversify and privatise the assets of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) will also be responsible for finding employment for workers deemed ‘redundant’, who will have to be let go.

The disclosure was made

by Minister within the Finance Ministry, Jaipaul Sharma, during an interactive discussion on ‘Economic Development’ during Guyana Business Summit 2017, venued at the Guyana Marriott Hotel.

Minister Sharma was not the Government representative on panel discussion, but was present in the conference room when the matter was raised regarding Government’s plans for the thousands of workers to be laid off as a result of the administration’s decision to close an additional three sugar estates.

One participant questioned what Government’s plans were for the transition of these workers into gainful employment once again.

The Government’s representative to the panel, Dr Neilson Modeste, in attempting a response to the question, said the administration, in view of the anticipated closure, should have some sort of “alternative programme” to transition the workers to gainful employment.

This response did not sit well with the Opposition representative on the panel, Bishop Juan Edghill, who interjected and pointed out

Junior Finance Minister Jaipaul Sharma

that the Wales factory has already been closed, leaving some 1,700 workers directly without jobs.

The Member of Parliament (MP) was adamant that Government is still to pronounce on the adjustment programme to assist the affected workers.

As such, the Junior Finance Minister, who was seated in the front row, was called upon, and he indicated that it was the special purpose company attached to the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) which will be tasked with finding jobs for the persons.

The total loss of jobs was bandied as high as 10,000, but according to Minister Sharma, the full tally of persons who would become redundant as a result of the additional closures should be no more than 1,500. He, however, did not outline

what Government will do to assist those 1500 persons to be gainfully employed.

The Junior Finance Minister drew reference to the fact that some $130 million were voted in the National Assembly for the special purpose company when substantive Minister Winston Jordan had presented a financial paper.

Minister Sharma told the Private Sector Commission’s Summit that it is expected that the factories next on the chopping block could be closed as early as the end of this year, and that the Special Purpose Unit will prepare ‘package programs’ for the displaced workers.

The state of the sugar industry was among the more prominent issues of concern that were debated.

Chief Whip of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Gail Teixeira, who delivered a presentation on behalf of Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, had also earlier queried the fate of the thousands to be affected by the imminent lay-offs.

Teixeira, in her presentation, was especially critical of the Head of State, President David Granger, saying his address to the opening of the Business Summit reminded her of the story of ‘The King and his new clothes.’

According to the Opposition Chief Whip, the Business Summit was organised to ventilate serious challenges facing the private sector and country at large, but attendees were none the wiser to plans of the administration, since the presen-

tations have been devoid of substance.

She was adamant that Government must make clear its vision and policies, since it appears that Government is not even

quite clear on its role.

She pointed to statements from Government official that the administration was not responsible for the creation of jobs, and that the rice and agricultural sec-

tor at large was a private sector problem.

The parliamentarian reminded that the business summit was being held in the context of the existing economic realities.

8 NEWS

friDAY, october 13, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

IN THE COURTS

Man admits killing cousinThe girl in-law at Santa Mission child…

S H

anta Mission, Kamuni Creek native Trudy Samuels, called ‘Jad’ and ‘Jadi’, has admitted to the fatal stabbing of his cousin-in-law, Joseph Jaundoo, called ‘Teddy’, who was killed on the eve of Mashramani 2016.

He appeared before Justice Brassington Reynolds at the High Court in Georgetown on Thursday, and pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter. The State accepted his plea, and the judge ordered a probation report on the accused, who will return to court on October 26 for sen-

Trudy Samuels will know his fate on October 26

tencing.

The Prosecution’s contention was that the murder stemmed from an alcohol-fuelled altercation which began at a ‘wake house’ in Santa Mission, but continued at Jaundoo’s home after Samuels had pursued him to commit the act.

Recounting the events of February 22, 2016, Nikita Jandoo, wife of the late Joseph Jaundoo, said she had managed to stop, at the wake house, the initial altercation which her husband Joseph had with Samuels, who is her cousin.

She recalled that her cousin was armed with a knife when he ran up the step at her home and started hitting her husband.

She said she had again managed to part them, and the accused fell off the stairs. This, however, was too late, as he had already used the weapon to stab Jaundoo, a father of five, several times.

Samuels was represented by Defence Counsel Satyesh Kissoon, while the Prosecution’s case was presented by State Counsel Shawnette Austin, in association with Lisa Cave.

Father of 11 slapped with narco-trafficking charge

S

hawn Small, 48, a father of 11, was on Thursday arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on a charge of being in possession of eight grams of cannabis at Stabroek Market Square, Georgetown on October 11.

The Prosecution is contending that the narcotics were found among supplies delivered to Small at his stall.

Represented by Attorneyat-law Clyde Ford, Small denied the charge, and Ford detailed that his client re-

sides in Kitty, Georgetown and is a stall owner at the Stabroek Market.

The lawyer informed the court that his client was unpacking his merchandise, which had just arrived by delivery, when Police arrived on the scene and began their

search.

The lawyer requested reasonable bail for his client, and Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore did not object to bail.

This was granted in the sum of $15,000.

Small’s case will be called again on November 1.

Drunken brawl lands North West man in court B enedict Daniels of the North-West District of Region One (BarimaWaini) found himself before Chief Magistrate Ann

McLennan on a charge of unlawful wounding committed against the person of Leon Samuels during a drunken brawl at an “Amerindian

Heritage Wash-down” event in Wauna Village.

Prosecutor Arvin Moore told the court that Benedict Daniels and Leon Samuels

were imbibing alcohol when a fight broke out, during which Daniels bashed Samuels with a beer bottle to the head.

Daniels readily admitted to the offence, and disclosed that Samuels had been a constant nuisance to him prior to the incident. He alleged that Samuels had approached him at least three times before, and had threatened him serious harm.

On the day of the incident, Daniels said, he was intoxicated when Samuels and a company of friends approached and began following him around. He was reportedly hit from behind with a beer bottle to the head, and he retaliated by bashing the complainant with a bottle he had in his hand.

Samuels sported a bandage to the head as evidence that he also had suffered injuries.

Upon hearing his explanation, the magistrate entered a not guilty plea on behalf of the accused, and placed him on $15,000 bail, considering the mitigating factors of his case.

The matter has been transferred before the Mabaruma magistrate for hearing on November 21.

Daniels has, meanwhile, been placed on a bond to keep the peace pending trial.

…at risk

opefully, none of us in Guyana has to be reminded about the neglect girl children face in the world - even in the 21st century. It’s been five years since the UN had to declare “A day of the Girl Child”, to remind us of the barriers placed in the path of girls which prevent them from fulfilling their potential.

And what’s that potential? At a minimum, it would be whatever the men in their society can achieve. So the test of where we stand on this subject is very simple: just ask whether girls are doing as well as boys. Right off the bat I can hear you, dear reader, murmur that, in Guyana, girls are actually OUTPERFORMING boys in school!

And that’s come about by just simply insisting that ALL children have to attend school and, as such, thereby treating girls the SAME as boys! But if the truth be told, those girls’ performances are even more extraordinary when you remember that, overall, the girl child still has more chores to do around the house than her brothers!

However, Guyana can still take a bow.

Another barrier in the way of girls was the tendency of most “traditional” societies to marry them off at a very tender age. A big part of what constitutes “modernity” was to have achieved this change without too much struggle. Here, in Guyana, the threshold age legally is 16; but in India, which is considered a “traditional society”, the Supreme Court has just made the minimum age that a girl can engage in sex 18! This means that, even if the boy marries the girl, they can’t have sex until eighteen.

Guyana?

While there will obviously be enforcement issues, the point is action is being taken on this most sensitive subject. In the past, because of the desire to protect “paternity” to ensure estate succession, girls were married young to ensure they were virgins. But, fortunately, there are other avenues to address that concern nowadays. DNA tests??

One type of oppression inflicted on girl children from the dawn of time -- and which actually appears to be growing -- is sexual violence. The world and Guyana need to get serious about this. While it’s clear there are a lot of paedophiles out there -- and boys are also affected -- the authorities have not been doing as much, or moved as swiftly as they ought to.

For instance, how long have we been hearing about chemical castration as the most appropriate punishment for these monsters? Has anyone been so neutered as yet? A “sex offender” register was touted after that horrendous sex-murder on that boy child in Berbice.

When will this be actually put into place?

…just can’t win

Well, the other foot has dropped on the Prithima Kissoon travesty. Here’s a young woman, not too long ago a girl child, who made it all the way to be the Deputy Solicitor General of Guyana. But because she followed the orders of the AG in making a submission on a case involving Bharrat Jagdeo – which made the AG look stupid – he takes it out on the young woman!

Harassment, abuse, intimidation and preventing her from performing her duties became the order of the day.

So she’d turned to the Public Service Commission (PSC) to seek justice – because that’s what the law of the land decrees. But without even reviewing her submission or calling in the AG, the commission members dismissed her – mere hours before their term of office expired.

This is not just a violation of the young attorney’s due process rights, which are guaranteed by the Constitution; it’s a rape of that Constitution, and by extension all Guyana. When will we say, “Enough!!”??

…and power

On the propriety of Trotman marrying his assistant, His Minister colleague, Gaskin, said we must “divorce” that!! Freudian slip??

But from the girl child perspective, doesn’t he have concerns about unequal power and undue influence?

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

News

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friDAY, october 13, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Firing Deputy Solicitor General “unconstitutional” – fmr PSC Chairman …says justice was not carried out

a formal complaint to the PSC against the Attorney General.

She was, in March 2017, informed by the PSC that she should proceed on administrative leave with immediate effect, pending the outcome of investigations into several court matters that she had conduct of.

The AG had launched a probe into cases which Deputy Solicitor General Former PSC Chairman Carvil Duncan

Attorney General Basil Williams

Former Deputy Solicitor General Prithima Kissoon

ays after it had been revealed that the Public Service Commission (PSC), as one of its final acts, had fired Deputy Solicitor General Prithima Kissoon, a former Chairman of the PSC is describing the act as unconstitutional.

According to former Chairman Carvil Duncan, a case can be made for an appeal against the commission’s decision, based upon the fact that a full Commission did not meet to make the decision.

“Justice was not carried out. Because the commission ought to realise that they are an independent commission and not subject to any threat or political direction. At that time when she was terminated, the commission per se did not meet,” Duncan said, in an interview with this publication.

Duncan said that PSC Commissioner Patrick Yarde and another commissioner had proceeded with the decision. He noted that, at the time, both he and another commissioner were nowhere in the picture.

Duncan and Yarde, along with fellow commissioners Vidyawattie Looknauth, Patricia West and Mohammed Akeel, were appointed to the PSC in 2014. However, Duncan was suspended from his post

by President David Granger last year, and Trade Unionist Yarde was subsequently appointed in May of this year.

“So there were only four commission members, and the quorum is three. So anytime two members are absent, any decision made is not a valid decision. It’s unconstitutional, and therefore the results of the decision are unconstitutional. So it’s enough grounds for appeal,” Duncan explained.

Earlier this week, the now former Deputy Solicitor General, in a public statement, said that with a mere six hours remaining before its life expired, the PSC had terminated her services. She said this was done purportedly on the recommendation of ‘an illegal’ Commission of Inquiry set up by the Public Service Commission. And according to the Attorney-atLaw, a new PSC will convene

and a previous complaint by her against Attorney General Basil Williams will never be addressed.

According to Kissoon, “My good name has been filched, my character assassinated, my career that I worked so hard to build in the public service for the past 10 years lies shattered at my feet; but my integrity and ethics are rock solid.”

She said this unlawful Commission of Inquiry was hurriedly constituted with indecent haste on August 18, 2017, and issued a summons on August 21, 2017, for Kissoon to appear before the purported CoI on August 23, 2017, and the PSC came out with the verdict of dismissal on August 31.

Kissoon was sent on leave earlier this year with the permission of the PSC, but had later found that the Permanent Secretary of the Legal Affairs Ministry had objected to her leaving the country while on leave, and a decision was taken to withhold her salary.

The debacle came to the public fore in January last, when Kissoon lodged

D

No reduction in...

The PPP, she said, is looking to have Government immediately remove all forms of taxes and duties on fuel for the agriculture industry; on inputs for the agriculture industry, including machinery, equipment and spares; in addition to removing the burdensome GRA administrative measures put in place.

The interactive panel discussion also saw heated exchanges between panelists and participants.

Local entrepreneur Captain Gerry Gouveia, present for both days of the historic confab, was against insinuations that the private sector was somehow operating in a predatory manner, like vultures, and wanted to pay less taxes in order to use the larger profits for their own purposes.

Captain Gouveia, in defending the private sector, said he took offence to the insinuations and that which suggested that the private sector didn’t in fact want to pay “its fair share.”

Gouveia was adamant: “What we don’t want is an

overtaxed sector.”

In February of this year, Government had said it will be moving to further reduce the current 14 per cent taxation come next year.

"The general approach of the Government is to progressively reduce value add-

from page 3

ed tax. This year, as you know, we had some challenges and rising of the revenues had to be done, (but) I'm very confident in the next budget, we will a reduction in that tax," President Granger told reporters during 'The Public Interest' programme.

Kissoon was involved, following a ruling handed down by the Court of Appeal, dismissing a State-sponsored appeal against a High Court decision that quashed a private criminal charge against Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo.

The Appeal Court ruled that the appeal was null after Kissoon had conceded to a claim by Jagdeo’s lawyer that the Attorney General was not

a proper party to the proceedings. Williams had reportedly since blamed Kissoon for the outcome of the case.

However, although he has blamed Kissoon for the case, Solicitor General Sita Ramlall, in a letter to the Editor, had pointed out that Williams had insisted to Kissoon and herself that he be named as the plaintiff in the appeal when he was not a party.

Mabaruma lime ends in attempted murder charge

A

planned ‘hangout’ at the Kumaka Waterfront in Mabaruma, Region One went awry and resulted in Jermaine McDonald being slapped with an attempted murder charge following a fight.

McDonald was on Thursday arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on an allegation that on October 8, at Kumaka Waterfront in Mabaruma, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Mario

Gomes with intent to murder him.

The court heard that McDonald is a father of two, with a fixed place of abode in Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Prosecutor Arvin Moore detailed that Mc Donald battered Gomes with a beer bottle, rendering him unconscious and causing him to be hospitalised at the Mabaruma Regional Hospital, from whence he was transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he remains in a critical con-

dition.

However, defence counsel for the accused indicated that the complainant was hit with a wood, and not a bottle. Counsel contended that McDonald was the one who had suffered injuries from the impact of a blow delivered by Gomes with a bottle.

McDonald was refused bail in light of the seriousness and gravity of the offence and the critical condition of the VC. The case will continue before the Mabaruma magistrate on November 21.

10 news

friDAY, october 13, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Govt tears down houses in Sophia squatting area

A dazed Robert Chesney, contemplating his next move

S

ome seven families are now homeless and several others contemplating their next move as the Central Housing and Planning Authority’s (CH&PA) Anti-Squatting Task Force commenced operations in Sophia on Thursday morning.

The Task Force members were accompanied by demolition workers, representatives from the Guyana Water Inc (GWI) and the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), as well as ranks of the Guyana Police Force. The Task Force saw to the demolition of several homes and businesses that were on Government reserve lands in A Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

The exercise commenced sometime around 08:00h and when Guyana Times arrived on the scene, several homes and businesses were already torn down.

One woman’s snackette located on Dennis Street at the head of A Field, was flattened. She said the move was an “unreasonable” and “devastating” one, since she is a

single mother with six children to provide for and her only source of income was snatched away from her.

The CH&PA said it had issued notices to persons squatting in the community, informing them that they needed to remove their structures from the Government reserve. However, many of the persons claimed that they were not given such notices.

In fact, many of them were not around when their homes were being demolished.

A young man related to this newspaper that he was at work when he received a call from a neighbour informing him that his house was being demolished. “When I reach, everything was flat,” he said, adding he is not aware that any notice was given to his parents to relocate.

Meanwhile, his neighbour, Robert Chesney, indicated to Guyana Times that he moved into his house about two years ago – before the ‘No Squatting’ sign was erected by Government – and had gone into the Ministry to get regularisation papers.

“When I come out, the people from the area tell me that people from Housing (Ministry) break it. I had a cellphone in the house and it missing so I go down at the back to them. When I tell the man I get a paper from Housing, he said the people from Housing stupidy, that they ain’t supposed to give me any paper,” he said.

A frustrated Chesney, who works at the Sophia Exhibition Centre, went on to cry out that “I aint get nowhere else to go, where I gon

An emotional Fitzroy Blair showing a document that was given to him during Thursday’s exercise to relocate by Monday

go… I want to ask David Granger what’s the next move.”

Nevertheless, as the Task Force-led team moved along A Field to carry out their exercise, they were met with high hostility by residents who became aware of what was transpiring and piled onto the roadway.

Many of them condemned the tactic used by the Task

Force in their bid to regularise housing in the community, while others opined that despite sympathising with those displaced, it was a move that needed to be done and had to start somewhere.

At one house, 56-year-old Fitzroy Blair had a confrontation with the team as he stood up to demolishers and ranks of the Police Force. After several minutes of standoff, the demolition workers began tearing down the back of Blair’s home, which he shared with his wife, son, daughterin-law and granddaughter.

However, this was quickly halted as the man managed to acquire some additional time to relocate. Blair further stated that he had applied for land over two years now but has not heard from the Ministry since.

It was explained to this publication by Task Force Member, Clayton Hinds, who is also Chairman of the Liliendaal Neighbourhood Democratic Council, that there are three categories of squatters and Thursday’s exercise targeted a specific group.

“Since the Government came into power, there has

This family formed a human barricade to prevent the Task Force from gaining access to their home

been an increase in squatting structures on the reserves. So those new structures, some of them have been given notices and those are the ones they are removing,” he noted.

According to Hinds, other squatters will also be expecting to receive similar notices for their relocation. This is being done even as CH&PA continues to work with those squatters who have already gone into to Ministry to get regularised housing.

Nevertheless, as the team moved further along A Field, they were met with increased hostility by squatters on the reserve. In fact, at one house,

the family removed planks from the bridge, preventing the Task Force and their accompanying members from access to the house.

Moreover, they formed a human barricade on the remaining half of the bridge, lining up several toddlers and a pregnant woman. Having confronted this, the team ended their efforts in A Field and moved onto B Field Sophia.

However, there, they were met with more heightened hostility by residents and were forced to abandon plans to continue their anti-squatting exercise.

Queenstown dentist robbed at gunpoint

A

31-year-old dentist of Anira Street, Queenstown, Georgetown was in the wee hours of Wednesday held at gunpoint and robbed as he was about to enter his yard.

Police investigations revealed that at about 02:30h, the victim was walking

into his yard when the two armed men attacked him from behind. One of them held him at gunpoint and ordered him onto the ground, while the unarmed suspect conducted a search on his person.

He was subsequently relieved of his mobile phone,

cash and other valuables.

During the ordeal, the gunman discharged a round into the air after which they made good their escape on foot towards the seawall.

No arrests have been made as Police continue their investigations.

news

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friDAY, october 13, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

life” nothing but S RAIGHT “Good a slogan – Ram Business Summit 2017

…urges Private Sector to have more “spine” on Govt excuses

T

The role of the Private Sector in fragile Guyana

oday’s discussion focuses on some pertinent issues with the backdrop of the just concluded Guyana Business Summit 2017.

It is an indisputable fact that the private sector is the engine that can contribute to creating the new jobs, expand aggregate demand; and, by extension, become the principal driver of economic growth. It is also a fact that the private sector can make or break a government. Thus, any sensible government ought to have a vision around empowering the private sector as an agent of growth, rather than using the organs of the state to deny investing opportunities to the private sector. After all, the private sector is essential to delivering a stable revenue stream to the Treasury.

But the main function that private sector serves for the society is that it can rise to the task of lifting some burdens from the government’s shoulders, and lend legitimacy to the state as a facilitator for good action. Thus when one reflects on the evidence at hand in Guyana, one can find numerous Government actions that are aimed directly at squeezing the now dwindling private sector. Simultaneously, this Granger regime seems to be using the organs of state as special purpose vehicles to expand the public sector and crowd out the private sector. This is an utterly backward strategy, and requires urgent re-engineering.

Since Mr Granger moved into State House, he supervised the expansion of the force strength in the Army, consuming hundreds of millions of scarce dollars. But, as President, he has done little to offer policy support to the private sector. One very easy policy action points to the fact that Guyana is not a member of the progressive tax community in Caricom; I speak of the club of countries that offer their manufacturing sector a corporation tax rate of 25% (namely Antigua, Barbados, Dominica and Trinidad). If Mr. Granger wants the manufacturing sector to be more innovative, then he has to do his job to make sure that the business environment is competitive, and the evidence clearly points that it is not in Guyana.

But what is terribly concerning is the concerted and deliberate attempt to use state vehicles like SARA to witch-hunt the private sector. One only has to be reminded of a special political operation that was commissioned in January 2017 to conduct an inventory of high-rise buildings to ascertain ownership. In response to such adventurism in policymaking, the nation saw its most rapid acceleration of capital flight since the 1980s -- so much so that it was estimated that some US$26 million left the shores of Guyana legally in the first half of 2017 alone, and if this trend continues, some US$53 million will be gone by Christmas.

So irrespective of the Russians, Chinese, Brazilians and whoever else Mr. Granger thinks invest in Guyana, the fact remains there is a net outflow of capital, and it will not stop until he causes his government to embrace the local and foreign private sectors as partners in development, to connect people and transform economic sectors.

Rather than chastising the private sector for lacking innovation, what Mr. Granger should have been telling the business community is how much he would have been reducing the corporation tax in the 2018 National Budget. He left nothing on the table at that Business Summit, except for some idle words.

But idle words do not build a nation; progressive actions do.

Going Forward

This Granger Administration must, at a minimum, consider the following policy actions in the 2018 Budget: 1) Expand opportunities for more local procurement, using the competitive tendering process.

2) Offer a fixed training grant of $10,000 to every newly hired worker, to acquire pertinent skills needed in the workplace, like Microsoft EXCEL, computer studies, learning to drive a motor vehicle, conflict management, report writing, customer service, and so on.

3) Grant a tax refund to any employer who hires more than 10 new staff in a year, and extend these opportunities to SMEs (measured by turnover) for hiring 5 new staff.

4) Establish the long-awaited State Development Bank, which is in the APNU/AFC manifesto.

5) Reduce the corporation tax rate for non-commercial activities to 25%.

It is imperative that the Government step in and prevent further asset destruction from happening in the private sector.

But that requires a macroeconomic strategy, something I am yet to see in action from Minister Jordan. Maybe it was a blessing in disguise that Mr Jordan skipped the Business Summit, because such ludicrous statements as no new taxes in the 2018 Budget would not have gone down well after the backdrop of the heavy burden that was imposed in the 2017 Budget.

Please share your thoughts at sasesin1@yahoo.com.

C

hartered Accountant Christopher Ram held no punches as the twoday Business Summit drew to a close at the Georgetown Marriott Hotel, and called for the private sector to show some spine when it comes to holding Government’s feet to the fire and asking tough questions of the administration.

The vocal social activist was extremely critical of the APNU/AFC coalition (A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change) Administration, calling the “good life” nothing but a slogan.

Ram appeared as part of the panel discussion on taxation in Guyana, and used the occasion to not only lament the existence of “over concentration of taxation”, but the “runaway spending of Government.”

The eminent chartered account, in his scathing upbraiding of policy makers and business leaders alike, called on the private sector to show some spine and to not skirt around the critical issues.

The Chartered Accountant told the business summit there can be no serious consideration of the taxation system in Guyana without also addressing its relationship to Government spending.

“We have had runaway public expenditure in this country,” said Ram. Singling out the increased ministerial and other portfolios and Government agencies, Ram was livid that public administration is the most bloated it has even been in the nation’s history.

Ram said this is the largest Administration with the fewest technocrats and with the highest cost on the budget.

“Let’s not avoid the real issues...we have to look at the expenditure side of it,” according to Ram. The straight-talking accountant was adamant “something is wrong with public expenditure management, and that is where the private sector needs to start this discussion.”

He suggested there was manipulation or irresponsible spending when he questioned how, at the end of June, a mere 28 per cent of a Ministry’s budget is expended; yet, by December, this jumps to 90 per cent.

Ram quipped: “Are these incapable managers suddenly experts?”

He told the Business Summit, “We are fooling ourselves if we talk about taxation” but ignore Government spending.

Ram used the occasion to also take aim at Finance Minister Winston Jordan, who has been seeking to peddle the notion that taxes have not been raised.

“I feel insulted as a

member of the Tax Reform Committee,” Ram said.

He pointed, too, to the numerous increases, and even called some of the new fees “disguised taxation.”

Ram, also a practising Attorney-at-Law, told those in attendance that things have reached a stage where revenues are no longer being used only for the provision of public services, but the ad-

ministration was in fact now running Government as a business for profit.

“To say we are not introducing any new taxes, I find that mind-boggling,” Ram lashed out at the Minister, saying his position would imply that there is currently an ideal tax system in place. to

Drawing remarks

by

reference Country

Representative of the InterAmerican Development Bank, the social activist reminded that Guyana has one of the worse cases of income and wealth inequality.

Taking a jab at the GRA, Ram reminded that it was only in 2015 last that an Annual Report was tabled for that key revenue collecting agency; that report, he emphasised, was dated 2010.

2 nabbed at city hotel with unlicensed gun, ammo

T

wo men were taken into Police custody following a raid at a city hotel on Thursday, during which a .38 special revolver and six matching rounds were unearthed.

Based on reports received, Police, acting on information, swooped down on the hotel and conducted searches on the two men.

Apart from the gun and ammunition, a handcuff and six mobile phones were also found in their possession. They are assisting police with investigations.

On Wednesday, during a press briefing, acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine disclosed that the Guyana Police Force has recorded a 33 per cent increase in robbery with violence but at the same time a nine

The gun and ammo among other items which were found by the Police

per cent decrease in serious crimes.

He also noted that murders have decreased by 13 per cent, while there has been a 15 per cent decrease

in robbery under arms, a six per cent decrease in robbery under arms with the use of other instruments, and an 8.5 per cent decrease in rape.

12

friday, october 13, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

M

iss India Guyana, 25-year-old Canada-based Guyanese Sangeeta Bahadur was on Sunday last crowned second runner-up at the Miss India Worldwide Pageant, when it was held in New Jersey.

Copping the international title was Miss India USA, Madu Valli and taking the first runner-up spot was Miss India France, Stephanie Madavane.

Initially, 27 beauties from around the world were slated to participate in the pageant but due to unforeseen circumstances, including VISA issues and the hurricanes that devastated several Caribbean islands, only 17 delegates took part. The 17 delegates were the cream of the crop and would have competed with dignity and perseverance.

However, at the finishing line, it was Valli, Madavane and Bahadur who wowed the judges with their beauty, charm and intelligence. In the 2016 pageant, Guyana’s delegate at the international

pageant, Brittany Singh, was placed in the top 10.

This year, however, Bahadur was also awarded the prize for Miss Congeniality. Miss India USA won the prize for best talent with her melodious voice.

Franchise holder of the pageant, Uma Devi Bux, who travelled to the USA with the Guyanese beauty told Guyana Times Entertainment she was extremely pleased with the performance of the local

representative at the international pageant this year.

She noted that she kept her fingers crossed and hoped for Guyana to be placed in the top five but with a lot of emotion, Bux was delighted that Bahadur placed in the top three.

The franchise holder contended that it was a very competitive pageant since all the contestants were gorgeous, intelligent and very talented.

However, she explained that the 2017 format for international pageant was very different from previous years, especially with the newly introduced

mandates which definitely took the national directors by surprise. “I can profoundly say we did not fall short in anyway. We were fully equipped to make a positive impact, which we did. Given the feedback w e

received from patrons a n d supporters at the event, one may even say Guyana unofficially won the title,� she noted.

Meanwhile, Bahadur announced her retirement from pageantry but will continue her reign as Miss India Guyana until the new queen is crowned in 2018. Although she resides in Canada, she intends to visit Guyana and more importantly to continue her charity outreaches.

She also hopes to teach dance across rural areas of Guyana. The quest for Miss India Guyana will commence in the new year.

T

he winners of the Mr and Miss African Root Pageant on last Saturday evening received their prizes at a simple ceremony at the Museum of Africa Heritage.

T h e pageant w a s held on

September 11 and 12 at Queens College, which saw several energetic males and females vying for the titles.

At the end of the two-night affair, Stephan Johnson and Keisha Brazh were crowned

Mr and Miss African Roots, in the adult category while Richard Layne and Tonia Harris were the crowned King and Queen in the junior category.

However, apart from the crowned queens and Kings,

the organising co m m i tte e headed by its Director, Kelton Jennings awarded several others who participated in the pageant.

These include the dancers and sponsors who made the pageant a success.

The main sponsor was Kares Engineering. The company donated $1.4 million towards the planning and execution of the pageant.

Other sponsors include Digicel, Museum of African Heritage, ACDA, Cool Wrap and others.

guyanatimesgy.com

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friday, october 13, 2017

our well rounded women are set to compete for the title of Miss Cultured Guyana (MCG) Pageant, which will be held at the Umana Yana on Saturday, October 21.

The Miss Cultured Guyana Pageant came into existence in March

2016, under the stewardship of Lloyd N De Arts Production. During the months of planning, the pageant developed its diverse meaning and was subsequently launched.

This inaugural MCG Pageant saw seven beautiful, talented and

cultured young women competing for the coveted title.

These young women were exposed to various cultural activities such as an educational training programme designed to revive their knowledge about our local culture

Delegate # 1

Delegate # 2

Name: Jenel Bennett Age: 23 Hobbies: Modelling and listening to music Her inspiration to join pageantry: She has always had a passion for modelling

Name: Faith Harding Age: 22 Hobbies: Poetry and singing, dancing and reading

Her inspiration to join pageantry: She believes it promotes self-awareness and confidence

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ormer Miss Guyana Global, Poonam Singh, has collaborated with Guyanese reggae star, Natural Black for “Touch Meh”, which will soon be released on all major radio and television stations.

“Touch Meh” was written by the former beauty queen and Natural Black, in the key of F Major at the tempo of 110 beats per minute. The song is an Indian dance pop, considered to be a temporary departure from Singh’s usual soulful/ pop music style.

“Touch Meh” was produced by Darrell Pugsley (DP Records). Natural Black is one of Singh’s favourite artistes from Guyana, hence right after their first meeting at the studio, without hesitation, she decided to do a collaboration with the internationally known artiste on the same day.

In other words, “Touch Meh” was written and recorded in a few hours.

The collaboration was an easy one, since both singers meshed perfectly. “‘Touch Meh’ is simply a fun song, the type of music you can jam with and really just chill out to,” Singh stated.

Making reference to one of Natural’s famous songs – “Nice”, Natural said “‘Touch Meh’ is nice, it Nice, It Nice”.

The two artistes are looking forward to doing more collaborations together and making music in their home country, Guyana, more fun and relaxing.

and training sessions on cultured topics.

Additionally, as part of the preliminaries, delegates executed various challenges to harness a true cultural experience.

On the night of the pageant,

Delegate # 3 Name: Akita Joseph Age: 18 H o b b i e s : Sketching designs and visiting the theatre Platform: The place of the Indigenous culture within a multicultural setting Her inspiration to join pageantry: She hopes that the experience gained, will assist her to excel in other pageants because she loves being a model.

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the delegates will compete in introduction, talent, presentation on an Indigenous cultured personality, catwalk challenge, creative cultural cocktail wear, creative cultural creek wear, professional wear, intelligence and creative cultural evening wear.

Delegate # 4 Name: Romichelle Brumell Age: 20 Hobbies: Singing, playing hockey, painting, writing and being a volunteer Platform: To promote the importance of a comprehensive Indigenous curriculum to erase cultural erasure.

Her inspiration to join pageantry: She believes in the way pageantry transforms a woman to become more confident while celebrating her beauty, femininity and intelligence

s Courts Guyana Inc prepares to host its annual Christmas Tree Lightup, which normally takes the form of a grand concert, the company is looking for fresher and newer talents to ring in the occasion.

The Christmas Tree Light-up has become a tradition for many families that flock the various stores to ring in the festive season.

It is evident that the largest concert is held in front of Courts Guyana, Main Street, Georgetown store and is attended by members of Government and other dignitaries.

Over the past years, the furniture giant usually shortlists some of the best local singers and other acts for the concert and would receive numerous requests from other upcoming artistes who would also like to perform at the Courts Light Up in order to gain recognition.

It is behind this backdrop that the company is committed to bringing newer and fresher talent to the stage, and as such, it will embark on a song competition via social media.

It is the hope that the winners will become the next ‘big thing’ in Guyana through the exposure they will receive. The winner of the competition will receive $200,000 cash and the opportunity to be on tour with Courts across Guyana as it spreads Christmas cheer.

Those desirous of participating in the competition are required to upload their best Eddy Grant cover to their Facebook page with the hash tags #CourtsLightUp and #CourtsCastingCall.

The five persons with the most votes will be summoned to sing live before the Courts judges where the winner(s) will be selected.

More information about the competition’s rules is available on the Courts Facebook page. Closing date for entries is Tuesday, October 17.

The previous winners were Jevonah Chester, Ronnel Gonsalves and Melissa Vandeyar.

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friDAY, october 13, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Son of former registrar admitted to local Bar

Moblissa double murder

State accepts accused’s F manslaughter plea ...says killed stepsister, her son after being accused of rape

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early four years after the brutal murder of a mother and son, Orin Rodrigues of Moblissa, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) pleaded guilty to manslaughter when he appeared before Justice Brassington Reynolds at the High Court in Georgetown.

On Thursday, Rodrigues admitted that on November 30, 2013, at Moblissa, he was responsible for the deaths of his stepsister, Molly James, then 30, and her 15-year-old son, Aaron James, who were both fatally stabbed.

According to the particulars of the matter, on November 29, 2013, a relative was washing clothes at the Moblissa residence when Rodrigues had gone up and placed a knife to her neck and had sexual intercourse with her, without her consent. After the ordeal, the young woman told James what occurred and the family made a report to the Police. However, this angered Rodrigues, who had

Orin Rodrigues who killed his stepsister and her son admitted to his crime

reportedly confessed that he also engaged in intercourse with the child, one day prior.

It was contended that the killer made open promises to kill his stepsister and “her pickney” with a knife. The accused accepted that on November 30 just after midnight, he went to the family’s dwelling place where James and her son were asleep and stabbed them to death, after which he made good his escape.

He was found on December 1, 2013 about two and half miles away from where the incident took place.

In his caution statement to Police, the self-confessed double killer said that he did in fact kill the mother and child on account of the report which was made to Police about him raping the teenager. During preliminary proceedings at the Magistrate’s Court, the accused made claims that Police beat him, held his hand and forced him to sign a statement, but the lower court upheld the statement and maintained that it was freely given.

During High Court proceedings on Thursday, Justice Reynolds ordered a probation report be submitted, which will be taken into consideration when Rodrigues is being sentenced on October 26. The case was led by Prosecutor Shawnette Austin while the self-confessed double killer was represented by defence counsel Maxwell McKay.

ulfilling the dream of his late father, former Registrar of the Supreme Court, Rashid Mohamed, Rizwan Mohamed on Thursday ascended to the Bar, where he pledged to be ethical in his pursuit of justice as a practitioner in the legal arena.

The 34-year-old took his oath in a packed courtroom, surrounded by scores of family members, colleagues and well-wishers.

Mohamed was presented to the gathering as a promising addition to the justice system during his petition, which was filed by renowned legal practitioner Robin Stoby in the presence of presiding Justice Naresh Harnanan.

The newly-admitted lawyer was described as a grounded individual of noble background, who had a passion for hard work and was keen to reach.

Mohamed kicked off his academic career at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, where he initially was in pursuit of a career in information technology.

However, being the son of an ex-registrar, the former student of Brickdam Secondary and Queen’s

Attorney-at-Law Rizwan Mohamed joined by presiding Justice Naresh Harnanan as well as his mother

College respectively was eventually drawn to the field of law.

While speaking to Guyana Times, the young lawyer expressed delight in being the newest addition to the legal fraternity.

In doing so, he stated that “growing up, my dad would’ve advised me, he wanted me to study law, but I was more interested in the IT-related field.

But from working with the lawyers at the Attorney General’s Chambers, and being around father, I figured that I needed to make a change and that is when I decided to do law,” the

newly-inducted Attorneyat-Law related.

After completing his LLB, the young man went on to pursue his Legal Education Certificate (LEC) at the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad.

Acknowledging that the completion of his LEC was only the beginning of his career, the young lawyer outlined his mission as he goes forward to serve the country in the capacity of a practitioner of law.

Attorney-at-Law Mohamed is already attached to the Khan’s Chamber, a law firm which specialises in civil matters.

news

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friDAY, OCTOber 13, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

CJIA expansion closure

Fly Jamaica cancels flights ed through the Eugene F Correia International Airport at Ogle, East Coast Demerara.

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The list of flights cancelled during the CJIA disrupted period

ust days after the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) announced a temporary disruption in nightly operations at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Fly Jamaica Airways has indicated the cancellation of a number of flights, which were booked during this period.

According to the GCAA, in order to facilitate the expansion works currently underway at the CJIA and to maintain the December 2017 deadline for the project, the Airport will be closed intermittently.

The main port of entry to Guyana will be placed on shutdown during the evenings of October 13 to November 3, 2017 to allow for construction works.

As a result, the Jamaican carrier has opted to cancel the majority of its flights slated for this period while leaving only one which is being shifted to depart at an earlier time.

Fly Jamaica, in a public release, indicated that

in order to limit schedule changes and maintain on-time departures of subsequent flights, flight OJ262 – originally scheduled to depart Georgetown at 13:30h on Saturday, October 14 – has been rescheduled for an earlier departure and will now take off from the CJIA at a p proximately

18:00h local time today, Friday, October 13.

As such, passengers booked on this flight are asked to arrive for checkin at the CJIA between 14:30h (2pm) and 17:00h (5pm) on Friday, October 13 to cater for standard op-

erating procedures.

Additionally, the carrier pointed out that early departures from Guyana, and the rerouting of some flights, may be necessary during the period of closure at the CJIA. This is to ensure arrivals at their North American destinations remain within the designated time slots.

Meanwhile, the airline has informed customers that several other flights to and from Kingston and Georgetown are cancelled, and passengers who are already booked will be re-accommodated on the next available flight. These cancellations will only take effect for trips in and out of Guyana during the disruption at the CJIA. On that note, Fly Jamaica highlighted that reservation agents would be calling passengers booked on these flights to advise them of their new departure date and time.

In a similar light, Caribbean Airlines recently announced that its scheduled flights during this time will be relocat-

GTT slashes handset prices in “Pinktober” special A s GTT continues to observe its “Pinktober” campaign, the telecommunications giant will slash selected Alcatel handsets by 50 per cent up to October 20.

The company will introduce its “Pinktober” Alcatel special, which comes with some great deals.

For “Pinktober”, GTT is slashing the price on the Alcatel Idol and the Alcatel Go Play by an unbelievable 50 per cent when customers activate a mobile monthly bundle for just $3499.

With its 13MP rear and 8MP front cameras; this piece sports a trendy touchscreen that delivers excellence on its 5.2-inch display with full high definition. “If persons are into creating awesome photo

memories, this is the perfect phone to have. The pictures are of superb quality,” GTT noted.

The Alcatel Go Play is always ready for action. This mobile phone is waterproof, shockproof and dustproof, and comes with an 8MP rear and a 5MP front camera.

It also sports cool battery fea-

tures with 500 hours of standby time, 8.3 hours talk time and 40 hours of non-stop music playback.

During the promotion, the Alcatel Idol is available for $34,399 while the Alcatel Go Play is sold at $28,999.

In addition to the offers on handsets, GTT is urging its customers to be part of the inaugural “Pinktober”

5K/10K walk/run on October 21.

Register for $2000 and customers will get a free T-shirt to participate in the walk/run, 300MB data, and one ticket to the Travis Green Gospel, Chronixx Reggae or QQ Dancehall Concerts. The sum of $500 will go directly to the Guyana Cancer Foundation.

The promotion is done as the telecommunications company observes Breast Cancer Awareness and celebrates the lives of warriors who have fought and overcome the disease, and those still fighting valiantly for themselves and others.

GTT is pleased to partner with the Guyana Cancer Foundation in its amazing mission to raise awareness about this dreaded disease, to give back, and to show strong support for efforts aimed at early detection – a true way of taking the life out of cancer.

However, operations for all carriers are expected to return to normalcy after the completion of the nec-

essary construction, which is aimed at wrapping up the CJIA expansion project by the end of this year.

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guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, october 13, 2017

News

Constitutional reform

Fmr and present AFC Chairmen disagree on schedule

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ontending that the process towards arriving at a new

Constitution could take some time, former Chairman of the Alliance For Change

(AFC), Nigel Hughes, is of the firm view that the David Granger-led Administration

will not achieve constitutional reform by 2020, as the process requires compre-

Former AFC Chairman Nigel Hughes

AFC Chairman Khemraj Ramjattan

hensive consultation, and the will to start the process so that it does not become a backburner issue.

Hughes made this comment during a panel discussion on Governance and Legal Architecture at the just concluded Guyana Business Summit. The attorney said constitutional reform has been a discussion for many years, and was also a campaign promise made by the AFC. He said given the fact that the Government waited until 2017 to start the process, it could be delayed.

“Does this process have any chance whatsoever of meeting that target? The reality is I don’t personally believe that it will be done, especially when you will have to cover the entire country, covering all ten regions. Is this a realistic goal that this will be achieved prior to elections in 2020?” he questioned Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, who was also a member of the panel.

The Minister responded in the affirmative, stating that Government could work to fast-track several aspects of the work already being done to achieve constitutional reform.

On the other hand, representing the parliamentary Opposition on that panel was former Presidential Advisor Gail Teixeira, who said that in order for constitutional reform to take place, some human rights aspects have to be strengthened. She also was keen to point out that constitutional reform takes time, and it must be inclusive.

“It has to go to the bottom house, schools, and people in their own way will say what they want (to) see changed,” she said, explaining that people must be familiar with the concept.

She told the gathering, “Sometimes there is a major mix-up between constitutional reform and legal reform, and that might pose a

challenge in the entire process.”

Besides this, the Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) noted there have been many starts and pauses when it comes to constitutional reform. However, she explained that some changes have already been made to the Constitution, particularly as it relates to Recall Legislation and the Oversight Committee on Security (disciplined forces).

The former advisor described the process as magnum opus. “As a politician, I have no clue and I feel shortchanged, because we should have a sense of what Government wants.”

Draft legislation on the Constitutional Reform Bill was tabled in the National Assembly in July, paving the way for the establishment of a Constitutional Reform Consultative Commission to guide this long overdue process. In August last year, Government had established a Constitutional Reform Steering Committee (CRSC), headed by Attorney Nigel Hughes, who had compiled and submitted a report to Prime Minister Nagamootoo in April last year.

Constitutional reform was a hot topic during the 2015 General and Regional Elections’ campaign, with the APNU/ AFC (A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change) Coalition promising to undertake the task.

As part of the reform process, Government had touted major changes to the governance structure, including separate elections to elect a President and National Assembly members; the capping of presidential powers; and changes to the composition of service commissions, among other things.

The Constitutional Reform Steering Committee that was established will be responsible for effecting the changes to the Constitution when Government finalises its decision on the reforms.

friDAY, october 13, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

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Around the World

Israel to join US in Ozone layer recovery could be delayed by 30 years quitting Unesco

A 2016 Unesco resolution criticised Israel’s activities at holy places in Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank

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srael has said it will join the United States in pulling out of the UN’s cultural organisation Unesco, after US officials cited “anti-Israel bias”.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the US decision as “brave and moral”, a statement said.

The agency is known for designating world heritage sites such as Syria’s Palmyra and the US Grand Canyon.

Unesco head Irina Bokova earlier called the US withdrawal a matter of “profound regret”.

The US withdrawal will become effective at the end of December 2018 – until then, the US will remain a full member. The US will establish an observer mission at the Paris-based organisation to replace its representation, the State Department said.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu tweeted he

Harvey Weinstein: US and UK Police launch investigations

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olice in the United States and United Kingdom have launched investigations into sexual assault allegations against the film producer Harvey Weinstein.

The New York Police Department is looking into an allegation dating from 2004 and is reviewing whether there are any additional complaints. London’s Met Police has received an allegation of sexual assault in the London area in the 1980s.

Weinstein has “unequivocally denied” any allegations of non-consensual sex.

The New York Police Department said it was “looking to speak” to an individual who had made an allegation dating from 2004.

Assistant Commissioner

J Peter Donald said: “Based on information referenced in published news reports, the NYPD is conducting a review to determine if there are any additional complaints relating to the Harvey Weinstein matter.

“No filed complaints have been identified as of this time.” The Force also appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

The Metropolitan Police, meanwhile, said it had been passed the allegation of sexual assault by Merseyside Police.

A Merseyside Police statement said it “can confirm a report was received at 8:40h on Wednesday (11 October 2017) of an alleged sexual assault in the London area in the 1980s”. (Excerpt from BBC News)

had instructed his Foreign Ministry to “prepare Israel’s withdrawal... in parallel with the United States”.

Unesco is an easy target for US President Donald Trump – it is a multilateral body with educational and developmental goals like promoting sex education, literacy and equality for women.

The US withdrawal will be seen by many as a manifestation of Trump’s “America First” approach and his across-the-board hostility to multilateral organisations; the irony being that Unesco is part of the international architecture that the US helped to establish in the wake of World War Two. But it is the organisation’s perceived anti-Israel bias that is the fundamental issue here. It has condemned Israel in the past for its activities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

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Researchers reported in 2015 that there was clear evidence of healing in the ozone hole

However, concern has been growing over the past few years about a number of chemicals, dubbed “very short-lived substances”.

Dichloromethane is one of these chemicals, and is used as an industrial solvent and a paint remover. Levels in the atmosphere have increased by 60 per cent over the past decade.

Another compound highlighted in this new report is dichloroethane. It’s used in the manufacture of polyvinyl

chloride or PVC, a light plastic widely used in construction, agriculture and elsewhere.

For a long time, scientists believed that both these compounds would decay before getting up as far as the ozone layer.

However, air samples analysed in this new study suggest this view may be mistaken and these destructive elements are getting there quicker and doing more damage than thought. (Excerpt from BBC

News)

Trump puts Puerto Rico on notice over hurricane aid

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S President Donald Trump has griped about emergency relief efforts in hurricane-ravaged Puerto Rico, saying federal aid cannot continue "forever".

In tweets, he accused Puerto Rico of a "total lack of accountability", adding that "electric and all infrastructure was disaster before hurricanes".

The island, whose 3.4 million residents are US citizens, is 90 per cent without power, some three weeks after Hurricane Maria.

On Thursday, Congress approved a US$36.5 billion disaster relief bill.

The cross-party bill, which still requires Senate approval, provides emergency storm relief for Puerto Rico, Florida, Texas and the US Virgin Islands, as well as wildfire-ravaged California.

In Thursday's morning

Cuba could stop attacks on Trump signs executive order to US diplomats – White House he White House curred in August. weaken Obamacare said Thursday Those affected have S President Donald Trump has signed an executive order allowing the sale of health insurance plans that are exempt from some Obamacare regulations.

The order directs federal agencies to consider easing rules allowing small businesses and some individuals to buy cheaper plans with fewer benefits.

Consumers could also buy shortterm policies that would skirt protections in place for pre-existing conditions.

The order comes after Congress has repeatedly failed to repeal the law.

Trump said the White House was “starting the process” of repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare, in announcing the executive order at a news conference on Thursday. (Excerpt from BBC News)

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ising global emissions of some chlorine-containing chemicals could slow the progress made in healing the ozone layer.

A study found the substances, widely used for paint stripping and in the manufacture of PVC, are increasing much faster than previously thought.

Mainly produced in China, these compounds are not currently regulated.

Experts say their continued use could set back the closing of the ozone hole by up to 30 years.

Scientists reported last year that they had detected the first clear evidence that the thinning of the protective ozone layer was diminishing.

The Montreal Protocol, which was signed 30 years ago, was the key to this progress. It has progressively helped Governments phase out the chlorofluorocarbons and the hydrochlorofluorocarbons that were causing the problem.

that Cuba had not done enough to prevent a series of mystery attacks on US diplomats, but stopped short of accusing Havana of carrying them out.

"We believe that the Cuban Government could stop the attacks on our diplomats," said White House Chief of Staff John Kelly.

The mysterious attacks, which US officials initially suggested could have been carried out with some sort of covert acoustic device, have affected at least 22 US Embassy staff in Havana.

The last instance oc-

exhibited physical symptoms including ear complaints, hearing loss, dizziness, headache, fatigue, cognitive issues, and difficulty sleeping.

In response, the US has withdrawn more than half the personnel from the US Embassy in Cuba and ordered the expulsion of 15 Cuban diplomats in the United States.

US relations with Havana were only fully restored in 2015 – after a half-century Cold War breakdown – and have deteriorated since President Donald Trump took office in January. (Excerpt from AFP)

tweets, the US President noted it was up to "Congress to decide how much to spend".

But he added: "We cannot keep FEMA, the Military &

the First Responders, who have been amazing (under the most difficult circumstances) in P.R. forever!"

The Mayor of the Puerto

Rican capital, San Juan said Trump's tweets highlight his "desperation" and the "inadequacy" of the hurricane response. (Excerpt from BBC News)

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guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, october 13, 2017

ARCHIE

Make plans or arrangements to do something that is (March 21fun, entertaining or that will April 19) encourage you to make better life choices. A marked improvement in your health will help you excel.

ARIES

Situations will escalate TAURUS if you fall short of what’s ex(April 20- pected of you. Don’t let work May 20) or domestic responsibilities clash. Refuse to share secrets or personal information with a colleague.

dilbert

Handle your financial and GEMINI (May 21- business affairs carefully.

June 20) Overspending or making unrealistic promises will leave you in a sticky situation.

Offer creative solutions, but don’t donate your cash.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

Your kindness will lead to trouble if you trust a smoothtalking individual. Put your time, effort and cash into personal gains, home improvement and romancing someone you love.

You’ll face emotional controversy at home or when dealing with institutions, government agencies or authority figures. Stick to the rules and regulations to avoid being put in a precarious position.

Don’t be tempted to take VIRGO part in something just be(Aug. 23cause you want to impress Sept. 22) someone or be near him or her. Take a pass, but be there to help when things fall apart.

Don’t overanalyze. Live LIBRA (Sept. 23- in the moment and deal with Oct. 23) matters as they arise. Don’t make life more complicated than it is. Keep life simple and your goals reasonable.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

An unrealistic promise will SCORPIO put you in a compromising po(Oct. 24sition. Schedule your plans Nov. 22) carefully and use common sense when making decisions that could influence your reputation or ability to advance.

Simplify matters by living SAGITTARIUS within your means and only (Nov. 23- taking on what you know you Dec. 21) can handle. Underestimating the work and cost involved in a project will leave you in a bad position.

solution for LAST PUBLISHED Puzzle

You or someone you are CAPRICORN dealing with will overre(Dec. 22- act. Protect important relaJan. 19) tionships and do your best to keep the peace. A physical challenge will do you good and ease stress.

Put your passwords, credAQUARIUS it cards and anything else (Jan. 20- that matters in a safe place.

Feb. 19) Someone will take advantage of you if you are too gullible or open about your personal business.

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

Money and emotions won’t PISCES (Feb. 20- mix. A deal is only as good March 20) as the work you are willing to put in to make it succeed.

Take positive action.

friDAY, OCTOber 13, 2017

Ireland confirm Pakistan as first Test opponents

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reland's first Test match will be against Pakistan in May 2018 after the two countries came to an

agreement during the ICC meetings in Auckland this week.

Ireland, along with

Afghanistan, were elevated to Test status earlier this year.

"We are excited to wel-

come Pakistan to Ireland for our inaugural Test match next year," CEO Warren Deutrom said. "It has been

our wish to make our Test debut in front of our own fans within 12 months of becoming a Test nation, and against a big team, so I'm delighted."

Pakistan's trip to Ireland will come before their twoTest tour of England which begins in late May. The date and location for the Ireland match will be confirmed in the coming months.

"There is a lot of work to do from now to ensure that it will be an occasion to remember but we, and I'm sure our players and fans, can't wait to rise to it," Deutrom said.

"We would like to thank the Pakistan Cricket Board most sincerely for agreeing to be our first opponent in Test cricket, the Pakistan team has been a regular visitor to our shores in recent years, and their agreement to be our opponent on this important occasion for Irish cricket is further evidence of

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their terrific support."

Bangladesh were the previous team to join the Test ranks when they played their first match against India in November 2000.

"Test cricket is the pinnacle of our sport and I know how much this game will mean to not only the players but all involved with Irish cricket. It'll be another step on what has been an incredible journey for our sport in a relatively short passage of time," William Porterfield, the Ireland captain, said.

"It's sure to be an incredible and emotional experience for all involved. I know how much this will mean to all the players and just how much we all will forward to our dream of being Test cricketers realised. I'm certain there will be an incredible atmosphere from both sets of fans who will be keen to witness a piece of history." (Cricinfo)

NBA champions Warriors "the perfect storm" – Miller

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he Golden State Warriors have the perfect storm of talent and are comparable to Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls, says Reggie Miller.

Reggie Miller described defending NBA champions the Golden State Warriors as having "the perfect storm" of talent as they bid to claim a third title in four seasons.

The Warriors are the undisputed favourites to retain the Larry O'Brien Trophy, with Golden State boasting two-time MVP Stephen

Curry, 2014 MVP and reigning finals MVP Kevin Durant, 2017 Defensive Player of the Year Draymond Green and Klay Thompson on their roster.

Curry, Thompson and Green are all tied to longterm deals, with Durant taking less money to keep the team together, allowing the Warriors to re-sign important pieces such as Andre Iguodala, Shaun Livingston and Javale McGee. And five-time All-Star Miller said of Golden State

on a conference call: "The Warriors — it's almost like a perfect storm.

"You have everything encompassed in your players, as well as your coaching staff, you've won two out of three championships, you've got two of the top 10 players in Steph and KD and you've probably got four of the top 20 players including Draymond and Klay, it's the perfect storm. "They are all young … and they play the right way. There's no ballhog, there's no sticking, it's

a beautiful game to watch; there's back cuts, there's proper screening, there's fast breaks, there's threes, and they play great defense.

Great defense. I feel like I'm gushing over them. I wish there was another team that was like that."

As a player Miller lost five times in the Eastern Conference Finals with the Indiana Pacers, suffering defeat to Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls in 1998.

And he sees similarities between the Warriors and

Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant have become a dynamic duo

that Bulls team in terms of their popularity, pointing to the reaction the Warriors received during their recent preseason games in China.

"They arrived [in China] at three, four o'clock in the morning and there was one, two thousand people waiting

for them at the airport and at their hotel," Miller added.

"It reminds me a lot of like when Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls used to travel. It was like the Beatles were coming, and the Warriors have that effect." (Sportsmax)

Stokes to offer "full explanation" when legal process allows B

Ben Stokes

en Stokes has promised a "full explanation" of what went on in Bristol on the night of his arrest for alleged Actual Bodily Harm last month, after acknowledging - via his agent - that his actions have had a negative impact on his team-mates ahead of this winter's Ashes, as well as the ECB and the wider sport of cricket.

Stokes, who was last week withdrawn from England's

Ashes squad pending further investigation into the events outside Mbargo nightclub on the morning of September 25, yesterday parted company with his bat sponsor, New Balance, a contract that is believed to be worth 200,000 a year.

He also issued an apology to the British celebrity Katie Price, after being filmed appearing to mock her disabled son Harvey, an incident that generated further negative headlines on the back of the Bristol incident, in which he was shown allegedly throwing punches at two men in a street brawl.

However, Stokes's agent, the former England batsman Neil Fairbrother, has insisted that the player retains the full support of his management company, ISM, and added that the full details of what went on that night would be made public at an appropriate time, after the investigation by Avon and Somerset Police has been concluded.

"Ben explained to me the full circumstances of what happened in Bristol and I told him that he has my total support and backing," said Fairbrother in a statement. "I am aware that he has fully cooperated with the police inquiry and voluntarily provided a detailed statement on the same day as the incident. He will continue to assist the police in any way he can.

"Ben will also make public his full explanation and evidence when the time is right. On legal advice, that is not possible whilst the investigation continues and no charges have been brought forward. Ben does not wish to prejudice the process.

"He is also concerned about the impact the widespread publicity has on everyone involved including the ECB, his team mates and the game of cricket itself which he loves.

"We will not be making any further comment relating to this at this time." ( Cricinfo)

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friDAY, october 13, 2017

players and officials will be stay hydrated thanks to Banks.

“We extend a warm welcome to the visiting teams and officials, and look forward to a successful tournament with the expectation that the local men’s and women’s team will emerge victorious,” the former national hockey player remarked.

Also present at the handing over ceremony were Brand managers Clive

Guyana Hockey Board Vice President Alan Newark (third from right) receives the sponsorship cheque from Banks DIH Communications Manager Troy Peters. Looking on are Errol Nelson, Clive Pellew, Clayton McKenzie and Mortimer Stewart

B

anks DIH limited is the official beverage sponsor of the Pan American Indoor Hockey Championships which open on Monday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, Homestretch Avenue Georgetown.

The Guyana Hockey Board and the local beverage company formalized ar-

rangements and announced the partnership during a presentation ceremony on Wednesday at Thirst Park.

Vice President of the GHB Alan Newark received the sponsorship cheque from Banks DIH Limited Communications Manager Troy Peters in Sales Conference Room.

Rain Forest Water,

PowerAde and Malta Supreme are the official beverages of the tournament which will attract most of the top playing hockey nations from North America, South America, Central America and the Caribbean.

Newark expressed gratitude to Banks DIH Limited for sponsoring the prestigious tournament, the first

I

Bakewell Sales Supervisor Roy Van Tholl makes his company’s contribution to an Upper Demerara/ Kwakwani Sports Committee representative Thursday at their Beterverwagting, ECD headquarters

Championship will start today with a cycle road race, which will peddle off from 6:00 hours, from Nut Farm at Dalgin on the Linden Highway and end outside the Police outpost at Amelia’s Ward.

Both Primary and Secondary School athletes will compete in the field events today, while on Tuesday October 17, the primary school students will take to the track.

On Thursday October 19, Secondary School athletes will be on show as they go

T

Zumba Queen Noshavyah King

get massive boost from Bakewell

cherished by the organisation since it helps to not only recognise the top performers and schools, but also encourage those to others to give their best.

Bakewell, Small mentioned, should feel proud of their contribution to the athletes of the Upper Demerara/Kwakwani area, since the Championships will also help to select the athletes who will represent the district at the up-coming National Schools Championship.

The Inter Schools

Fitness Expo III set for November 11 & 12

of its kind being hosted by the Board.

“Banks DIH has always being a partner of the Board and we appreciate the Company playing a major in providing beverages and other support the tournament,” he added.

Peters congratulated the Board for hosting the tournament and stated that the

Region 10 Inter-School Championships n recognition of their late beloved Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Naeem Nasir, Bakewell RT Thursday sponsored the Upper Demerara/Kwakwani (Region 10) Inter-Schools Championships, which will run off today at the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground.

Rajin Ganga, the company’s CEO said sports was important to the late Nasir whom he said prided himself in helping Guyana’s sportsmen and women, and, as such, the championships will see Bakewell being the sole sponsor; covering all the medals and trophies.

“This is a part of our one week of sponsorship of sports events around Guyana because Mr Nasir was a big sports fan and Linden happens to be one of his special places as well. So we’re happy to be a part of this championships and I wish all the athletes well” Ganga said at a simple presentation of the prize at the Company’s East Coast Demerara (ECD) Beterverwagting Headquarters.

Carmen Small, Chairman of the Upper Demerara/Kwakwani Sports Committee, said Bakewell’s sponsorship is

Pellew (Water Beverage), Clayton McKenzie (NonAlcoholic malts), Errol Nelson (PowerAde) and Outdoor Events manager Mortimer Stewart.

The tournament will open on Monday and will feature men’s and women’s national teams from Argentina, Barbados, Canada, Mexico, Trinidad and Tobago, United States of America, Uruguay and host Guyana.

through the various heats and the finals for those track events will be held on Friday October 20.

Mackenzie Primary and Mackenzie High School (MHS) are the defending champions of the Upper Demerara/Kwakwani InterSchool Sports.

Upper Demerara/Kwakwani (District 10) is the most successful district in the history of the National Schools Championship, having amassed 15 titles; one more their closest rival North Georgetown (District 11).

he Guyana Fitness Games third anniversary GTM Health and Fitness Expo is set for November 11 and 12, 2017 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. The family-friendly event is geared to bring together hundreds of fitness enthusiasts from all around the country under one roof.

Attendees will have a chance to, discover what’s available in health and wellness products and services, have access to free fitness classes, free health screening, witness live fitness competitions, and much more.

The Expo welcomes fitness and health enthusiasts, families, and anyone simply trying to make a first step towards getting healthy.

Events and activities at the Health & Fitness Expo will include: Free Fitness Classes, Cancer Awareness Glow Walk, Zumba Glow Party, Fitness Challenges, Basketball Slam Dunk and 3 Point Shooting contests, a Strongman competition, Children’s Activities; among many other exciting events and exhibitions.

In addition to booths and exhibits covering both health and fitness, competitions and fitness workouts, the expo provides attendees with new tips to implement a healthier lifestyle. Attendees come from a broad spectrum of ethnic, social, and economic backgrounds with an interest in learning, experiencing, trying, signing-up and buying health-related products and

services.

There will be three free fitness sessions available to the public with some of the best instructors in the business. You have the option of participation in one or all of the free 30min classes and come away feeling energized after a great workout.

Our popular Cancer Awareness Glow (night) walk, is a fun way to get in some cardio as well as give back. As part of the proceeds from the Night walk are donated to the Cancer Society.

The Zumba Queen Noshavyah King, will be there with her highly anticipated, Zumba dance fitness workout, choreographed to some of the best Soca, Latin and Reggae hit singles. Her high energy Zumba dance moves will help you tone and tighten your body without the use of weights or equipment. ?

Expo attendees will be there to cheer for all participants of the various competitions including the first ever Strongman competition to be held in Guyana, where some of the strongest men in Guyana will attempt to pull a heavy duty construction vehicle in addition to doing other super strength events.

Tickets for the GTM Health & Fitness Expo are $500 per day, and $1000 for the Glow Walk and Zumba party. Children 10 and under are free. For more information on ticketing, and exhibiting or sponsorship opportunities, please call 672-9402.

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sports

Florida-Guyana Hope bringing their game & relief F

or the third year running Florida-Guyana Hope, a non for profit organization based in Florida USA will collaborate with Regal Stationery and Computer Centre for a series of charity events throughout Guyana and a feature cricket match at Crabwood Creek.

The group which comprises of Guyanese that are now living in Florida, got together to accumulate resources to assist members of the Guyanese society who may need a helping hand.

Since the majority of the Florida-Guyana Hope membership originally hailed from Corriverton a lot of the relief efforts are centered in that area.

On Sunday, the kind-heated gentlemen will match their skills against a Corriverton United Select team in an exhibition softball cricket match for bragging rights and fun at the Crabwood Creek Sports

Lots of attention were on Florida-Guyana Hope during the Florida Softball Cup in February

Some members of the Florida-Guyana Hope organization include President Mohamed Yassin, Vice President Rajroop

ganized Florida Cup and despite not winning the tournament they won many hearts.

However, they have their

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21

All packed and ready: Buddy Rampersaud (left); President Mohammed Yassin (centre) and Guru Shivram about to send off the shipment of wheel chairs and walking aids from Florida to Guyana

Complex from 12 noon.

Following the game, a grand donation of 40 wheel chairs and 20 walking aids will be made.

In addition to the donation, the visitors will be spreading cheer to at least four Children’s Home around the county including West Demerara, East Coast Demerara and in Georgetown.

Ramkellawan (Bowie), Treasurer Raj Bharat, Secretary Guru Shivram and officers Anthony Dhannie and Buddy Rampersaud some of whom will be part of the activities over the next few days.

Other than charity work, the versatile Guyanese are very active on the field. In February this year, they played in the South Florida Softball Cricket League or-

fair share of troubles too.

While preparations were on going for the annual trip to Guyana, some members were severely affected when hurricane Irma hit Florida and caused widespread damages. Yet, they decided to continue with the planned visit to help those in need.

For the cricket match on Sunday, Florida-Guyana Hope members will be

joined by friends including Mahendra Hardyal of Regal Stationery, Steve Narain of Steve’s Jewellery, Atif Khan of M and J Khan Grocery and Guyana Times Sport Editor, John Ramsingh with the aim of making their side a more balanced one.

Teams for Sunday’s cricket match are; Corriverton United James Hart (captain), Vibert Dan (Vice-captain), Anthony Seeraj, Michael Dan, Lawrence Mentis, Raymond Lowenfield, Hassan Mohamed, Mirza Ally, Patrick Mentis, Zafrul

Khan, Vishal Persaud, Fabian Seerraj, Akash Lutchman and Orin George.

Vishnu Hardyal is the Manager.

Florida-Guyana Hope; Anthony Dhannie (captain), Mahendra Hardyal (vice-captain), Raj Bharat, Jai Sahadeo, Pancho Samsundar, Butchu Kowlessar, Atif Khan, Rajin Ramkarran, Steve Narain, John Ramsingh.

The Manager is Mohammed Yassin and Buddy Rampersaud is the Assistant Manager.

Local golf resumes with Medal Play Tournament

Chesney CC to host 3-team T20 tournament T

he Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) through Chesney Cricket Club will be sponsoring a T20 competition on October 22, 2017 at the Chesney Cricket Club Ground starting at 09:30h.

According to a press release from the BCB, the Competition will be a oneday affair and contested by Mount Sinai Cricket Club, Whim Cricket Club and Chesney Cricket Club. The competition will seek to stir the interest of young and upcoming cricketers in the ancient county, and will encourage the member clubs to adopt a vibrant and positive attitude to the game.

Cash incentives and tro-

phies will be presented to the winning team, runner up, most valuable player, best bowler and best batsman for their performances in this competition.

The release further stated that President of the Berbice Cricket Board, Dhieranidranauth Somwaru in his brief remarks, stated that he is optimistic that tackling cricket at the grass root level is of utmost importance.

He insists that the second division clubs do all in their power to encourage its members to train hard, and focus on developing their skills in order to maximise their performances. He said that this competition, will be

one of many that his administration plans to conduct among leading second division teams in Berbice.

Kildonan Cricket Club, Police Sports Club and Fort Canje Hospital Club will be engaged in the second competition slated for mid November 2017.

Meanwhile, the Mount Sinai Cricket Club has announced its squad for the competition; Martin Singh (Captain), Wahab Edoo, Ryan Mohamad, Campton Lindie, Raymond Mohamad, Ryan Victor, Michael West, Wasim Yassim, John Gansaw, Mootoo Sammy, Devon Persaud, Feroze Kassim, Michael Layne and Delroy Mickle.

Parmanand Persaud is set to return to Lusignan GC after competing in Suriname

A

fter a break in the local golf season, an invitation is extended to all golfers to resume swinging on Saturday October 14 at Lusignan.

Call time is 12:30h and with the greens at the Lusignan Golf Club in immaculate shape a high level of competitive action is anticipated.

For the Medal Play Club

Tournament, lots of prizes are up for grabs including cash incentives for the first, second and third Best Net, Nearest to Pin and Best Gross, and of course the fame of being the Champion.

The latest break in the golf season was necessary to facilitate Guyanese golfers in the Suriname Invitational which took place last weekend.

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GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friDAY, october 13, 2017

ABCA Independence Tri20 Tournament 2017…

Permaul, Rutherford send Guyana to final

A

Veerasammy Permaul

Man-of-the match spell of bowling from Veerasammy Permaul coupled with Sherfane Rutherford’s fifty, helped Guyana dispose of Jamaica by 4 wickets, thus earning a spot in the finals of the 2nd Annual ABCA Independence Tri 20 series.

The left-arm spinner picked up 3-8 from his quota of four overs which suffocated the Jamaican side who could only muster a

paltry 105 in 20 overs with opener Steven Taylor stroking 33-ball 35 in a resilient effort for his team with support from Fabian Allen who managed 18.

The Guyanese lost their previous fixture between the two teams and extracted sweet revenge that seal their berth in Saturday’s final at the same venue.

Apart from Permaul’s match-winning returns, the other Guyanese bowl-

ers made inroads during their respective spells with Ricardo Adams claiming 2-7 while their all-rounders; Keemo Paul, Romario Shepherd, Sherfane Rutherford and Ramaal Lewis picked up a wicket each.

Chasing a middling total, Rutherford smoked 56 while in-form opener Robin Bacchus hit 23 which helped the Guyanese to 1066 in 19 overs, securing their

Sherfane Rutherford third win of the tournament which now places them in the finals against the win-

Steven Taylor ner of the Jamaica/Antigua clash set for Thursday evening.

Bartica Inter-School Athletics Championships in full swing

Gabriel donates generously to Dominica

C

ricket West Indies selector, Lockhart Sebastien has lauded fast bowler Shannon Gabriel for his generosity. Sebastien is from Dominica which has been ravaged by the recent spate of hurricanes that hit the Caribbean.

“I want to make a special mention to Shannon Gabriel.

I met him last week and he said to me ‘Sebo’ I need to give you some things to take home because things are rough. I told him no problem,” said the 61-year-old.

He continued, “On Sunday he came to the Brian Lara Stadium and he opened his vehicle and I asked him which box should I take. He looked and me and said everything. In it were two brand new generators and maybe US$1000 of stuff and I said to myself people look at cricketers and say they are greedy. This is a guy with a kind heart…I didn’t ask him for anything and he brought all this stuff and you have to congratulate people like that. I was stunned by his contribution and Gus (Logie) made a contribution as well.”

Sebastien expressed his thanks to the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board, Queen’s Park Cricket Club and Sports Company of Trinidad and Tobago for organising the Hurricane Relief Charity T20 match to raise funds for those impacted by the recent hurricanes.

The former Windward Islands cricketer stated that all assistance is welcomed because Dominica and other affected islands are in a terrible state.

“Some people will not be able to survive this and it would take a long long time to recover. If you visited Dominica before the hurricane and return now you would wonder if it is the same place. Dominica was a country that had so many trees. It looks like some army men came and decided that they wanted to bomb the place. All our agriculture is gone and I fear we will be living very unhealthy in Dominica because our supermarkets were destroyed and we don’t know what we will eat. A guy told me rice and cornbeef is a big meal in Dominica now.

It is a tough time for us,” said Shannon Gabriel Sebastien.

B

artica is hosting its Inter-Schools Field Competition which featuring more than 1000 athletes from eight Primary and two Secondary schools as well as one private school.

The event which is a prelude to fielding competitors to the National Athletics championships saw the athletes compete in various field events which would be followed by Track events today.

The Inter-Schools competition began on Tuesday with the students hoping to represent the Cuyuni/ Mazaruni Region 7 in seven aquatics categories in ad-

dition to heats for the track and field.

Nationally, Bartica is known for being outstanding in aquatics as well as in the various teachers' competitions.

Athletes representing region seven are drawn from as far as Waramadong in the Upper Mazaruni to Itaballi in the mid-Mazaruni region to Karrau in the lower Mazaruni, the rivering communities and central Bartica.

Already, 14 student-athletes have earned the chance to represent the region in aquatics with Fayon Wong being the 50 meter freestyle

and backstroke under 12 champion.

Ryan Williams dominated in the under 12 male categories while in the under 14 category Josh Allen emerged the star. Sushanna Williams and Kieanna Clementson are the swimmers to beat from the 'Red Earth' (Gateway to the Interior) region.

Diana Thomas and Randy Bowen are the swimmers to watch in the under 16 female and male categories while the stars of the under 18 categories are Kevin Edwards, Kenicia Moses, Moriah Richards and Fazeena George.

The most outstanding in the cycling category is Nickson Williams.

No strangers to competing at the nationals are Fayan Wong, Josh Allen, and Kevin Edwards. They competed in the championships in 2016. Ryan Williams competed in 2015.

Having the titles of the first and second best swimmer in 2015 and 2016 at the National championships, Kevin Edwards aged 17 is issuing a warning that this year he will be taking the National Aquatics Champion Boy title.

Stage set for Inter-Media Domino Competition A

ll media houses are hereby reminded to report the Everest Cricket Club pavilion this evening for the long awaited return of the inter-media domino competition.

There are two categories for competition; the Mixed Team tournament which will feature teams of six male and female media workers while the Domino Queen competition will bring the best female domino players across the media spectrum together.

Prizes compliments of Trophy Stall will be awarded to the top three teams in the mixed category and best three female players in the Domino Queen competition.

Organizers Esan Griffith and Sean Embrak extend heartfelt gratitude to the management of Trophy Stall, Professional Key Shop and Everest Cricket Club for their patronage in making the event a success.

Guyana Chronicle are the defending champions in the Mixed Category.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Times/ Evening News have named a strong team which includes; Paul Vanvield, Richard Jagdeo, Akeem Greene, John Ramsingh, Clifton Ross, Dexter Ceres, Tusika Martin and Vahnu Manikchand.

Double six time is 18:00h

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, october 13, 2017

23

Pan-Am Indoor Hockey Championships 2017…

– Head Coach not taking any team for granted

By Akeem Greene

U

ruguay women are the first team arrived in Guyana for the Pan American Indoor Hockey Championships and have already set their sights on a maiden title when the action gets cracking on Monday October 16.

The team got their first sessions on Wednesday evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) – the venue for the eventand Head Coach Nicolas Tixe explained that they will be focusing on getting acclimatised as quickly as possible.

“In Uruguay we are getting out from winter so we are not used to so much hot as there is here. I think we won’t have problem with it. We will acclimatise ourselves quickly. We will have to see how the temperatures goes when there is a lot of people inside the venue when we are playing,” Tixe told

Practising tactical drills was the focus of the team on Wednesday evening

Guyana Times Sport.

The temperature is not the only adapting facet to meet the Spanish speaking unit, since the surface is not what they have become accustomed to playing on.

“For us it is a new surface, we

have just finished our first training, it was very good, it moved quickly which contributed to good flow. We have a few days to get used to the surface.”

There will be seven other nations contesting the Women’s com-

petition, namely Guyana, Canada, Argentina, Barbados, Mexico, Trinidad & Tobago and the USA. Among them all, the Uruguay unit is hoping to walk away with top honours and make a return to the Indoor Hockey World Cup

which will be held February 2018, in Berlin, Germany.

“All the teams come here with the expectation of trying to win the tournament and qualify for the world cup. It will be a hard tournament because they are very good teams, such as Canada, USA, Argentina and they are new ones like Guyana and Barbados that we don’t know much about but we expected a good battle,” said the coach 2010 runners-up (lost to Argentina).

Argentina and Canada both have enjoyed the winner’s podium twice, while Trinidad won the inaugural Women’s Indoor Pan American Cup back in 2002.

The coach explained the squad composes an excellent mixture of experienced and young players, with players including Co-captain Rossana Paselle expected to be the lethal weapon having competed in two Pan-American and one World Cup.

West Indies A v Sri Lanka A

GCB/Jaguars 3-Day League, Round 7…

Ambris (106); Singh (81) Surujnarine, Baldeo put Georgetown to the sword shine on rain-affected day

O

– 3 matches bowl off today

Kandasammy Surujnarine

H

alf-centuries from Kandasammy Surujnarine and Balchand Baldeo left Upper Corentyne in a strong position over Georgetown heading into day two in round seven of the GCB/Jaguars 3-Day Franchise League played at Port Mourant Ground, Berbice.

Both openers continued their sublime form this season, with Surujnarine following up his last round ton with a solid 54 inclusive of seven fours and a six while Baldeo was unbeaten on 73 with nine fours and a six when play ended on the opening day.

At stumps, the Berbice franchise are trailing by 116 runs and are strongly placed on 131-1 from 27.4 overs after losing Surujnarine to spinner Steven Sankar (116).

Earlier, it was national off-spinner Eon Hooper who grabbed another 5-fer (5-58) and leggy Shawn Perreira (2-65) which helped to re-

Balchand Baldeo

Eon Hooper

Raymond Perez

Shemroy Barrington

strict Georgetown to their reasonable first innings total of 274 in 71.1 overs.

A gusty knock of 45 from 42 balls by number 10 batsman Travis Mohammed was Georgetown’s top score while other contributions came from opener; Shemroy Barrington (39), Raymond Perez (41), Kellon Carmichael (39) along with 28 apiece form skipper Paul Wintz and off-spinner

Gajanan Suknanan.

Day two’s action will continue today while the other three matches in round seven will all begin at 09:30h.

East Coast Demerara and Upper Demerara/East Bank play at Everest Cricket Club, West Berbice take on Lower Corentyne at Bush Lot while Essequibo will look to remain on top of the points table when they come up against West Demerara.

n a day which was a busy for the grounds men, middle –order batsmen Sunil Ambris and Vishaul Singh made hay while the sun shine. They laid the foundation for a challenging West Indies ‘A’ first innings total against Sri Lanka ‘A’ in their first “Test” at the Trewalany Multiplex in Florence Hall, Jamaica on Thursday.

When the rain-affected day two ended forty minutes after lunch, the home side were well placed at 364 for 8 with Ambris leading the way with a fluent 106– his fourth First- Class tonwhile Singh made a compact and supportive 81.

Resuming the day on 236 for 4, the duo added 136 runs for the fifth wicket when the left-handed Singh fell after battling through 219 deliveries from which he reached the ropes on four occasions.

With the entrance of usual attacking Rahkeem Cornwal who played quite uncharacteristically just striking five fours in his innings, Ambris eased to his

century. The right- hander punished the bowlers, caressing twelve fours in his 156 ball innings which spanned closed to four hours at the crease.

Jamaican leg-spinner Damion Jacobs was the last to be dismissed by left-arm spinner Malinda

Pushpakumara who ended the day with three wickets.

Seamers Sheldon Cottrell (02*) and Keon Joseph (01*) will resume at the middle today.

Caption: Vishaul Singh scored a gritty 81 on a day hammperd by the elements

(© CWI Media)

SCOREBOARD West Indies “A” (1st Innings) M Hodge st S Weerakkody b M Pushpakumara 13 J Campbell st S Weerakkody b S Jayasuirya 56 S Brooks* run out (S Weerakkody) 19 V Singh lbw b A Fernando 81 J Hamilton+ lbw b M Pushpakumara 6 S Ambris c A Fernando b C Karu naratne 106 R Cornwall c S Jayasuriya b C Ka runaratne 36 D Jacobs st S Weerakkody b M Pushpakumara 15 S Cottrell not out 2 K Joseph not out 1 Extras: (10b 3lb 8w 8nb) 29 Total: 364 for 8 (120 overs) DnB: Reynard Leveridge

FoW: Hodge 1-44 44 (12.4 overs), Brooks 2-76 32 (20.5 overs), Campbell 3-127 (38.1 overs), Hamilton 4-145 (50.1 overs), Singh 5-281 (89.4 overs), Ambris 6-332 (103.2 overs), Cornwall 7-354 (111.6 overs), Jacobs 8-363 (116.6 overs) Bowling: A Fernando 16-337-1, L Kumaraa 16-1-63-0-3, M Pushpakumara 36-6-1043, C Karunaratne 21-1-61-2, S Jayasuriya 17- 3-43-1, D De Silva 6-1-9-0-0, W Hasaranga 3-0-15-0, D Shanaka 5-2-19-0 Sri Lanka “A” XI: Ron Chandraguptha, Sundun Weerakkody+, Dhananjaya De Silva*, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka, Wanidu Hasaranga, Shehan Jayasuriya, Chamika Karunaratne, Malinda Pushpakumara, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando

Rain interrupts WIFBSC's final ranges shoot

R

ain ruined day four of the West Indies Full Bore Shooting Council’s (WIFBSC) 150th shoot, forcing the remaining ranges to be shot on Saturday.

At the end of Wednesday’s action, Irishman Alexander Gill had already been determined X class individual champ and national Captain Mahendra Persaud being named Caribbean best shooter after both marks-

men dominated the first few days of the competition.

The top 44 shooters were then resumed action on Thursday to determine the final 20 who would contest at the 900 and 1000 yard ranges. unfortunately after the first three ranges were shot and the marksmen were having lunch, the rain arrived and ended the action.

Following Saturday’s team shoot for the long and

short bore titles, the last two ranges will be shot.

Meanwhile the shooters will use Friday to tour the majestic Kaieture and Orinduk Falls while President of the West Indies Fullbore Shooting Council, Maj. (ret'd) John Nelson of Jamaica, had a meeting with Team Captains Thursday afternoon to cover all the pertinent matters for the WIFBSC Team shoots this weekend.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Pan-Am Indoor Hockey Championships 2017…

Quick acclimatisation top on Uruguay’s list Pg 23

– Head Coach not taking any team for granted Uruguay ladies get their first practice session at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall

West Indies A v Sri Lanka A Pg 23

The grounds men were kept busy at Trewalany Multiplex

Ambris (106); Singh (81) shine on rainaffected day Sunil Ambris’s 106 was the highlight of an otherwise dull day (© CWI Media)

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