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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 3122

Sunday, February 12, 2017

PRICE

Parking meter burden

$120 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Contract’s ‘terror clause’ protects Smart City Solutions

Deputy Deeds Registrar wins case against P10 AG

Page 3

…different approach by City Council could have avoided troubles – President

UG student killed after crashing into fence Page 7

Hitmen confess to killing Berbice woman Page 2

…lead Police to couple who hired them

Parking meter burden

Strong legal grounds exist for quashing of contract – Attorney P9

13-year-old drowns at Kingston P2 foreshore

Unlicensed teen shot

by Police P14 …wanted for questioning in recent robbery

Hype, colour, engergy! The various schools tramped through the streets of Georgetown during the annual Children’s Mashramani Costume Parade on Saturday. In photo, an Indigenous community float depicts Guyana’s flora and fauna along the parade route (Dexter Ceres photo)

VAT on education, health care will not develop Guyana – GCCI ...says consumers at mercy of increases Page 7

Govt promises further VAT P17 reduction next year

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news

SUnDAY, FEBRuary 12, 2017 | guyanatimesGY.com

Hitmen confess to killing Berbice woman … lead Police to couple who hired them

M

embers of the Major Crime Unit (MCU) of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) have again come in for high praise after acquiring

a confession from two men who were paid to execute Lilawatie Muhammed, a domestic worker, in her Tain Settlement, Berbice home on Wednesday last.

This was confirmed

by Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, who said that a tattoo artist and a Jamaican are in Police custody, along with the couple who con-

tracted them to carry out the job.

He noted that the Police are now hunting for the wife of a businessman, who is the alleged mastermind behind

the execution of the mother of four. The Police are also looking for a taxi driver, who transported the hitmen to and from the scene.

Blanhum told Guyana Times that the tattoo artist was arrested on Friday after the Police received several leads. After his arrested and interrogation, the couple who contacted him to commit the execution was also arrested, as well as the Jamaican.

He explained that from all indications, the now dead woman was having an affair with a businessman in the area and his wife later learnt about the relationship. In retaliation, she contacted the couple – a man and wife – and asked them to hire someone competent enough to kill the woman, claiming that Muhammed was causing marital problems in her home.

The wife, Guyana Times understands, paid a substantial amount of money to the couple in order to get the job done.

In turn, the couple contacted the tattoo artist and offered an undisclosed sum of money to him. After taking up the job, he contacted the Jamaican and the execution was planned.

On the night of the shooting incident, the two men hired a Toyota 212 motor car and travelled to the woman’s house at about 23:00h as her children were asleep.

Dead: Lilawatie Muhammed

As they arrived at Mohamed’s house, they kicked down the main access door, went into the house and started to demand money, making it look as if it were a robbery.

The Jamaica then discharged two rounds hitting Mohamed to the head. As she fell to the ground, the men ensured that the woman was dead before boarding the motor car driven by a man of mixed race and left the scene.

Guyana Times was told that one-day after the killing, one of the hitmen went to a popular furniture store in New Amsterdam, Berbice, where he paid his overdue instalment.

This publication could not confirm how much money was paid to each of the men.

Meanwhile, the Crime Chief noted that efforts to arrest the mastermind and the taxi driver have intensified.

13-year-old drowns at Kingston foreshore

T

he parents and siblings of a 13-year-old boy are now in mourning after the lad drown on Saturday afternoon at the Kingston, Georgetown foreshore.

Dead is Nicholas Sukulall of Lot 22 Ogle front, East Coast Demerara (ECD) and who attended the Plaisance Secondary School.

The young man reportedly went into the water with a friend after a game of cricket at the seawall but subsequently drown.

Guyana Times understands that the teenager and his friends were all playing cricket when their skin became muddied.

As such, Sukulall and another went into the water opposite the bandstand to rinse their skin but both began to struggle as the current was suspected to be very strong.

The struggle between the two continued but Sukulall lost the battle and went under the water; however his friend managed to climb ashore. An alarm was raised by the other teenager and Sukulall’s sister and others began to search the water for him.

His father was called to the scene and relayed to this publication what he discovered. According to him, he was a short distance away from the seawall when

he received a call which informed him that his son was involved in an incident.

“I went but I was not properly informed so I thought that he was involved in a fight or something like that,” the distraught man explained.

He added that when he arrived at the scene, he was met by his daughter who told him that her brother went into the water a while ago but failed to come ashore.

“So all of we went to look for him and then a big wave came and we spot his body so we pulled him out of the water.”

Guyana Times was informed that a doctor as well as a member of the Red Cross Society was on the scene and both performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) until the ambulance arrived.

However, he was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

At the hospital, family members were seen consoling each other after receiving the news of the teen’s demise.

The boy’s mother resides overseas.

This publication was also informed that the other friends of the teenager were all taken to the Brickdam Police Station for questioning.

NEWS

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Sunday, February 12 – 05:25h-06:55h and Monday, February 13 – 06:15h-07:45h.

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

WEATHER TODAY Light rain showers with sunny intervals can be expected throughout the day, with clear skies in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees and 27 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-easterly to East North-easterly between 3.57 metres and 4.91 metres per second.

High Tide: 05:26h and 17:41h reaching maximum heights of 2.68 metres and 2.76 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 11:16h and 23:37h reaching minimum heights of 0.52 metre and 0.48 metre respectively.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2017

LOTTERY NUMBERS 14

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FREE TICKET

DAILY MILLIONS 02 06 07 15

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LUCKY 3 1 2 5

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Afternoon Draw

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DRAW DE LINE

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Parking meter burden

Contract’s ‘terror clause’ protects Smart City Solutions

Sunday, February 12 – 06:00h-11:00h for maintenance works and Monday, February 13 – 05:00h-06:30h.

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

…different approach by City Council could have avoided troubles – President

A

s the controversy surrounding the paid parking system continues to mount, Government has now come out saying it is not satisfied with the deal between the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) and Smart City Solutions Incorporated (SCSI).

This pronouncement was made by President David Granger on the weekly televised programme – ‘The Public Interest’ – which aired on Friday evening. The declaration came on the heels of City Council returning to the discussion table; firstly, to iron out issues and concerns of civil society and secondly, to have renewed arrangements with SCS, the company contracted to implement the paid parking system in the country.

“Let me say that the Government of Guyana is not satisfied with the general provisions of the Parking Meter Project. The Government engaged with the municipality to have another look at the project and engage with civil society and the business community with a view of arriving at an outcome which is acceptable to both sides,” the

Government is likely to intervene, given the rejection and huge outcry by citizens on parking meters.

Closely guarded contract

President David Granger

believes that the rates are high and that there should have been certain parking exemptions from the inception, issues which he said have largely contributed to the troubles the project is facing.

At the same time, he sought to address the concerns of businesses who are claiming that since the operation of the paid parking system in the city they have been experiencing a dip in their business activities. The President outlined that while he understands the predicament of the businesses, the City Council needs to generate revenues.

“Nobody likes paying taxes but how will the city run…One of the leading protesters… has actually wrote the City Council for waivers of taxes which are due. You are saying there must be no Parking Meter Project and on the other hand, you want waivers… Pay your taxes and let the city run properly and we won’t have to resort to these measures” – President President said to reporters during the programme.

There has been widespread public outcry against the Parking Meter Project over the past months with a movement staging protest actions against the “draconian” costs and penalties of the project. This cry for help from Central Government prompted a meeting between the President and M&CC last week. Following that meeting, it was announced on Friday that the clamping of vehicles and institution of fines will be placed on hold pending talks to revise the parking fees as well as discussions with civil society.

According to the Head of State during the televised programme, his Administration

“Nobody likes paying taxes but how will the city run…

One of the leading protesters, I would even say an instigator, has actually wrote the City Council for waivers of taxes which are due. You are saying there must be no Parking Meter Project and on the other hand, you want waivers… Pay your taxes and let the city run properly and we won’t have to resort to these measures,” he stated.

However, Government had initially maintained that it was not going to intervene into the matter as it was giving the M&CC its independence to run the city.

Governance Minister Raphael Trotman at a recent post-Cabinet press conference had said “No,” when asked if

Since the signing of the contract, the document has been closely guarded with Council members only allowed viewing. After concerns were raised, Cabinet directed that the contract was reviewed by the Finance Ministry and the Attorney General Chambers during which it was found that most of the terms are overwhelmingly in favour of Smart City Solutions and contains a ‘terror clause’.

It was reported that the review highlighted that if the City unilaterally terminates the agreement, it would be bound to “pay the concessionaire a lump sum payment equivalent to the total direct and indirect, hard and soft cost cumulative gross investment of the concessionaire in the project”.

Asked whether M&CC erred in handpicking the Mexican-based company as oppose to following proper procedures and going to tender, President Granger posited that he has not “double guess” the nature of the contract but thought these controversies could have been avoided had there been more consultations with stakeholders by the City Council before venture into the agreement.

“We do feel that the contract is burdensome and we feel that there was simply was enough communications with the other partners and civil society. We feel that was injurious to the character of the final contract. I believe if a procedure had been followed in which there was wider ad-

vertising, there could have been a different outcome but as I said, we have not double guessed the work of the Council and it’s a matter for the Council to decide. I don’t think that any law was broken but at the same time I fell that the approach of the City Council could have been different,” Granger pointed out.

Impose solution

Nevertheless, the Head of State noted that despite its dissatisfaction with the deal, Government is not going to impose a solution on the municipality and instead, will await the outcome of talks between the City Hall and civil society.

Against this backdrop, Granger sought to reiterate that he is not against a paid parking system in Georgetown since the city is in dire need of revenues to meet its daily needs.

“Government regards the parking meters as a legitimate means of getting taxes to run the city’s affairs. We use the roads, we see the canals, we enjoy certain facilities and these things have to be paid for,” he noted.

The Guyanese leader added that having a consensual Parking Meter Project would have served to address the traffic congestion in the city.

“It’s the national capital and it is felt that by the use of parking meters in certain areas, the congestion would be reduced so Government is not against the notion of a Parking Meter Project but… we felt that there needs to be more consultation and more communication and the arrival at a more consensual solution,” Granger asserted.

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Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 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

Solar power!

Editorial

Guyanese Diaspora?

T

he University of Guyana (UG) announced that it will host its inaugural “Diaspora Engagement Conference” from July 23-28, 2017, under the theme ‘Dreaming Diaspora Engagement, Doing Diaspora Engagement’.

More specifically, it claims the Conference would provide the platform to develop a diaspora engagement strategy that would inform the work of the first “Caribbean Diaspora Engagement Centre” which will be launched during the conference.

But in that statement, there are several ambiguities that need to be clarified. While the conference claims to be an “inaugural” one, it followed several engagements initiated by the new Vice Chancellor (VC) Ivelaw Griffith that also invoked the ‘diaspora’ theme. One of these was a “Renaissance Weekend” last September in New York City, to which the VC flew up with a large delegation of 13 from UG to represent the “UG Renaissance” in order to “friend and fund raise”.

It would appear the idea of a “diaspora engagement” was already in the air since in the UG Magazine “Renaissance”, following the inaugural one, it was reported: ”One of the bold objectives of this Renaissance project was to facilitate tangible Diaspora Support Engagement in four critical academic areas: Technology (Architecture, Civil Engineering, and Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering), Health Sciences (Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Optometry, Medical Technology), Natural Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics), and Law.” On the team’s return, the VC dubbed the trip to the diaspora a “success”, especially as it related to the above mentioned assistance and what it foreshadowed: “The Renaissance weekend in New York has set the stage for considerable financial, human capital and technical assistance to our university by providing structure to Guyanese and other nationals in the diaspora to support critical areas of need.”

However, when the financial details were revealed, it turned out that while $2,019,950 was secured through contributions from the diaspora, $4,366,024 was spent on the expenses of the team. There were cries of protests from some staff, especially against the background of an increase in student fees and the presentation of UG’s largest budget ever – $5.2 billion for financial year 2017, of which $3.0 billion was earmarked for recurrent expenditure, versus $2.2 billion for capital works.

The main reason for mentioning the previous expensive engagement to stimulate engagement with the diaspora is that the present “inaugural” Conference seems to have completely ignored the achievements mentioned above from the September 2016 engagement, since they relate to the core raison d’etre of UG. The attention of the VC appears to have expanded without consolidating the initial claimed gains: “the Conference will contribute to the development of diaspora policy and a framework to effectively attract direct diaspora investment and engage the diaspora in nation building.” If the “success” of the first foray into “diaspora engagement” is anything to go by, one must be concerned about this expanded initiative with three components – an academic symposium, a business forum and community engagement.

This concern is heightened by the further ambiguity about exactly which “diaspora” the organisers have in mind, since the announcement speaks of establishing a “Caribbean Diaspora Engagement Centre”. The word “diaspora” means “to scatter about” and refers to people who leave their homeland and maintain some sort of identification with that homeland when they migrate, voluntarily or as in the paradigmatic Jewish instance, involuntarily to other lands.

The question that arises is whether UG and its VC are targeting the “Caribbean diaspora” or the “Guyanese diaspora”. If it is the former, is it the entire Caribbean diaspora as represented, say, by the nations of Caricom, or only the Anglophone Caribbean. And even if it is the latter, is it realistic to expect Jamaicans or Bajans to become part of a group intended to spur “engagement” in, for instance, the “community engagement” component of the Conference.

This, the release claimed will, “focus on building relationships with key stakeholders, such as diaspora community leaders, governments and hometown associations.”

If we are not clear about our destination how will we ever get there?

The streets of Georgetown were filled with colour, glamour and excitement as spectators converged to witness the annual Children’s Mashramani Costume Parade on Saturday. In photo, energetic students jamming to the sweet sound of soca music display costumes depicting solar energy (Dexter Ceres photo)

Deception of City Hall is appalling Dear Editor, The deception of City Hall is appalling! On one hand, through the recent announcement of their estimates of revenue and expenditure for 2017, they projected a measly sum of just over $200,000,000 per year from the 20 per cent cut to which they are entitled from the fated parking meter initiative, if it were to thrive and be utilised fully on a daily basis by residents and shoppers in Georgetown.

This cannot even fund two months of the Municipality’s

payroll. In other words, the citizens should not look forward to too much benefits, even if the parking initiative is a smashing success.

On the other hand, however, the Town Clerk is raising the hopes of everyone for significant benefits from these paltry proceeds, such as installing a modern city transportation system for the young and elderly, for the construction of new sidewalks, green spaces and cycling lanes, in keeping with the international concept of a smarter city.

Now the youngest child knows that the above listed projects would take billions of dollars; so then, how many decades would it take at $240 million a year, (that is if everybody uses the spaces from 7am to 7pm each day) to complete these pipe dreams.

To make the situation even more laughable, they are even promising Municipal workers a hefty raise of pay from the same proceeds of this parking meter project, this is of course to bribe them in order to get

buy. How cruel.

When will the madness at City Hall end? Now they have just capriciously exempted the area contiguous to the Bank of Guyana, so what about the other banks?

Will they be exempted too?

Do they have a municipal court to deal with persons who have been dilatory in their parking or will Smart City Solutions and the City Council be the judge, jury and executioner?

Sincerely, Modi Sankar

NSC web of deceit and hypocrisy Dear Editor, The GABF received on Friday, February 3, 2017 a cheque for $3.5 million, being part of the funds due from the National Sports Commission (NSC) for works done by GABF at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH); prior to the Caribbean Basketball Confederation U16 Championships, hosted in Guyana from July 2-16, 2016.

The geniuses and masterminds that run the NSC have somehow made $3.5 million equivalent $7.8 million.

It would be an insult to

the intelligence of the leadership of the NSC, if they actually believe their stated intent not to repay the balance due of $4.5 million.

NSC must understand that the debt will fully paid, and time is of essence.

Some members of the NSC are sunshine sport patriots, who have put title and benefits above service and seem empowered to conduct themselves in ways that are not fit and proper. They make grand claims to spending the taxpayers’ monies as if it is their personal sacrifice!

The same logic that spurred them to pay $3.5

million linked to GABF part payment towards the new basketball goals should apply with equal force to the capital type expenditures made by the GABF to prepare CASH for the Championships re: Carpeting of VIP Area and three rooms; Wall partitions; Door for VIP Washroom, Two Urinals with fittings; construction works on: First Responders Room, Kitchen, Walkway, Balcony Rooms; Repairs to Washroom and replacement of Sinks at the National Gymnasium, among other capital expenditures.

The shameful conduct by

the NSC, evidenced by the monies due to GABF not being repaid after six months is insensible and indefensible. These are monies that the NSC committed verbally to repaying.

While the NSC pay “lip service” to sport development and having a youth development policy, their inaction betrays their verbal pronouncements.

The vainglorious nature of some members of the NSC, does not bode well for Youth and Sports Development in Guyana.

Sincerely, Nigel Hinds

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

We must move pass IK Cush’s mentalities of our politics Dear Editor, Like IK Cush, I stand behind what is said, but unlike IK Cush, it will be something worth standing up for.

Even though he did not mention race, he is referring to it, but IK Cush does not represent the views of young or progressive Guyanese, instead he represents the “Racist AntiRacist” who, like the Ruel Johnsons of the world, be-

lieves that everyone else is to be blamed for black peoples suffering, other than black people themselves.

The only race that has been deliberately oppressed and who have not been able to represent their interest at the highest level of Guyanese politics are our Amerindian brothers and sisters. And to be fair, it is only under the PPP that we saw tangible representation of this group.

Are parking meters a higher priority than municipal markets?

Dear Editor, Something does not seem to make sense about the Georgetown City Constabulary. For years we have heard them cry out that they are extremely short of staff, and that they are constrained in carrying out their duties as a result of this, and that they are unable to attract new recruits, etc.

However, just like that, all of a sudden, they are quite comfortably able to reassign 50 Constables armed to the teeth, far more than one-third of their staff strength if we are to be guided by the numbers they put out, to be the enforcers of this parking meter project.

Maybe these are the “house slaves” Ifa Cush is talking about, trying to control the motorists who they see as the field slaves.

Do they consider this Parking Meter Project to be of higher priority than the municipal markets where shoppers and vendors conduct business each day? Do they consider it a higher priority than their municipal locations where large sums of monies are collected? Do they consider it a higher priority than the enforcement of the City’s Bylaws? Or do they consider it a higher priority than stopping persons from being mugged on the streets?

I believe the City Constabulary needs to create a list of its priorities and then number them, as I doubt whether there has been a surge in recruitment leading to full staff strength. They are there to protect and to serve, not to be henchmen to contractors and enforcers of special interests.

People are molested and robbed in and around our markets on a daily basis and there is hardly ever a Constable in sight, yet when the many booting exercises are being done, they are right there menac-

ing and even arresting motorists as though they are criminals.

So will they use this as an excuse to once again re-engage without bidding, the private guard service that is affiliated to a serving Councillor from their Municipality?

Sincerely, Anu Bihari

Amerindians suffered under the PNC, because they were deemed inferior to the then “black superiority”, like the IK Cush of “those PNC days”.

My black brothers ruled this country for 28 years, the same years Cush is referring to as “those days”, where everyone put their shoulders to the wheel to pave their own destinies.

But he conveniently forgot that during that time, the people were deprived of democratic representation, something that he dislikes even now, because he is not mentally capable of existing in a truly democratic society with freedom of speech.

During this “great period” Cush is referring to, ‘white mouth’ was a staple in people’s vocabulary and hunger was recognised along with rationed food lines, while living in fear of speaking out. In those days, Walter Rodney was assassinated by the PNC for being a viable threat to a PNC-led dictatorship.

Guyana could not pay its

foreign debt and owed more than it could produce.

If I am dared to ask IK Cush some purely insensitive and pragmatic questions; where is the foundation from “those days” that should have been laid for the people today, so that we would not be in a state of economic vulnerability?

Why did the PNC not protect the black community by empowering us to protect our economic future?

Why after 28 years of controlling all the resources of Guyana, the people were not left in a position to withstand the shock of economic levelling during the PPP years? And I am not saying the PPP years were perfect, but it was progressive.

Every other race or cultural group in Guyana had withstood the pressure of those 28 years and built themselves so that they would not be oppressed, while the black leaders under the PNC lived lavishly by exploiting their own people and everyone else.

Now you and others stand again with power in your

hands and are doing the same things you did under the PNC. Overtaxing the people, taxing education, overpriced parking meters, depriving market vendors of their income, and I can go on and on.

The future of Guyana will not be like those 28 years, it will not allow greedy and hateful people to deprive our freedom to express ourselves and we will protect our rights this time.

The future politicians will work together, even if we do not agree or are on the same side. We will not take part in gang politics, race politics and disastrous group thinking. The future politicians will look for common grounds that drive Guyana forward and not divide us and this starts with protest like the Movement against parking meters.

It must be OK to disagree without making enemies out of it.

Guyana is currently under too much economic strain to have parking meters in its capital and everyone agrees with that

fact. We agree because even the average Guyanese owns a car, even if they can just get by with it and that is why the parking meters is the straw that’s breaking the peoples back.

So as IK Cush stands there with his backward and toxic mouth, you must remember that it is not “those days” that made it possible for the average Guyanese to own cars today.

Those who ‘voted like a boss’ will now feel what it’s like to live in those days IK Cush is referring to. I will continue to play my role in showing what voting like a boss should be like in a future Guyana we will all love and live for.

Sometimes we forget that there is enough resources in Guyana for all to live well, only if we can manage it properly.

Sincerely, Malcolm Watkins Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Dip SCMè (ITC)

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Foundation

For Valentine’s Day:

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mistakes i keep making in romance...

BY GRETCHEN RUBIN

I

T

Anu Dev

he Eskimos had 52 names for snow because it was important to them: there ought to be as many for love. Margaret Atwood As a Canadian, Atwood would herself know more than a thing or two about snow: as a novelist and poet, she’s obviously thought much about love to have posed the question above. And yes… she did pose a question since every proposition (eg, “there ought to be as many words for love”) is an answer to a question!

To a great extent the movies have defined our notions of “romantic” lobe. Among my favourite is the “oldie” Casablanca, with the inimitable Rick and Ilsa. The theme there is love as “sacrifice” and this still rings true for me. Remember when Rick insists that Ilsa leave him forever, he gently places his hand under her chin and raises it so their eyes meet, and he says, “Here’s looking at you, kid.” Still gets me!

So what is our post-modern take on Valentine - which has become our trope for “love”? I’ve noticed that there are approximately four types of reactions to Valentine’s Day on social media: (1) lovey-dovey declarations of love from those in relationships, (2) single-and-proud statuses, (3) statuses declaring that food is their one true love, and (4) people who just go about their day like it was any other day.

But February the 14th doesn’t hold exclusive rights as the only date to show someone you care. It's just a date chosen in honour of St Valentine and became associated with romantic love in the 14th century. It could've been any other date or better yet, it doesn't just have to be one date. Why can't people show their love for the important people in their lives every day? Or rather, why don't they? The persons you love should be important enough to you that you would have no problem with show them that you love them every day - whether you want to show your love by just saying 'I love you', or by showering them with gifts, it's your prerogative.

Be spontaneous, show your love every day in all of the little ways that count much, much more than an elaborate show on Valentine's Day. And love itself comes in so many, many forms - you could love your mom, your dad, brother, friends, boyfriend, girlfriend and all of the other people in your life. Let the people you care about always know and feel that you care about them. Sure people aren't perfect, and someone is sure to step on your toes over time. But you don't need to hold a grudge or put them in the doghouse - remember that you love them.

And I'm not saying you need to go around loving everyone because no matter how many pink sunglasses we wear, we can't fool ourselves that the world is as rosy as we would like it to be. There are always people who we will find decidedly unlovable, and that's OK. You don't need to love everyone and show everyone that you love them - that might be spreading yourself too thin (not to mention you’re also losing the plot of love being special and important).

You at least ought to show the important people in your life, the ones you care deeply about, that you love them because, hey, if you love them that much, that shouldn't be much of a problem - right?

But OK, even though you should be showing your love every day, it IS a nice gesture to go that extra mile on Valentine's Day. Chocolates anyone?

n general, I’m a fan of using milestone days to prompt me to think about changes I might undertake to make myself happier, healthier, more productive, or more creative.

Certain days, such as January 1 or my birthday, remind me to reflect on my life and my hopes for the future.

Recently, Inauguration Day prompted me to think about the highest ideals of the United States, and how I can live up to them, in my own life.

And Valentine’s Day is a great reminder to think about my romance! My husband Jamie is the love of my life, but sometimes I don’t treat him with courtesy or interest.

I have to remind myself – don’t be nicer to a stranger on the street than I am to my own husband. (In fact, research shows that married people often show more consideration to others than they do to each other.)

For instance, I make these relationship mistakes over and over, even though I know I shouldn’t. In the scheme of things, they’re fairly minor (which I’m quick to point out), but they are annoying. And in marriage, it’s good not to be annoying, whenever you can avoid it; marriage is a long, long road.

7 mistakes that i keep making in romance

* Even though I know it’s rude, I will often read my emails while I talk to my husband on the phone. * I leave my clothes in a heap in a corner of our bedroom, even though I know it gets on his nerves. * I give him a smart-alecky answer when he absent-mindedly asks me the same question more than once, even when it’s just some little thing I could easily answer. * I leave empty diet soda cans scattered around the apartment. * Months ago, for his birthday, he asked if we could get the carpets cleaned as his present, and I told him I’d organise that as my gift, and I haven’t done it. * I haven’t made a doctor’s appointment for myself, even though he really wants me to get a check-up. * I “snap” at him and speak sharply when I get anxious about something – when I fear that we’re running late, when I’m worried about whether we’re following the right parenting strategy, when I’m concerned about some work issue.

But it’s true that with time and effort, I’ve learned to do a better job in some ways. As I write about in Better Than Before, my book about habit change, what we do most days matters more than what we do once in a while. I’ve managed to cultivate these good habits:

5 things i do right

* I give him a warm, attentive “hello” and “good-bye” every time he comes home or leaves the apartment. * I spend a few minutes clearing clutter in the early morning, right before I walk our dog Barnaby, so the apartment looks at least superficially tidy when he emerges in the morning. * I text him funny or interesting updates during the day – pictures of something I see on the street, or Barnaby asleep in my office, or “Five years ago today” “One year ago” photos of our family (I do this so he doesn’t assume that every text or call from me involves an annoying logistical question). * I’ve learned that as a Questioner (as opposed to an Upholder, Obliger, or Rebel), he doesn’t like being questioned, so I refrain from asking many questions that I’d like to have answered: “Where are we going for dinner?” “What time do we need to leave?” * I make the bed on the days when he doesn’t make the bed. I love having the bed made, and so does he. Ancient philosophers and contemporary scientists agree: a key to happiness is strong relationships, and if we’re in a romantic relationship, it has a big influence on our happiness.

How about you – what romance mistakes do you repeat, and what good habits have you cultivated? (www.psychologytoday.com)

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sunDAY, february 12, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

VAT on education, healthcare will not develop Guyana – GCCI

UG student killed after – says consumers at the mercy of increases crashing into fence W

The car at the scene

A

former student of Queen’s College and the University of Guyana was on Saturday morning killed after he reportedly lost control of his motorcar and crashed into a fence at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

Dead is 20-year-old Ryan Reynolds of Ogle, East Coast Demerara; the son of Justice Brassington Reynolds.

Reports are the young man was heading home when he reportedly lost control of his motorcar bearing registration number PJJ 2706, and slammed into a fence, toppling several times before ending up in a nearby trench.

Guyana Times understands that the young man was ejected from the vehi-

Dead: Ryan Reynolds

cle while it was toppling, resulting in him receiving severe head injuries. He was picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

When contacted, the dead man’s mother told this publication that the family is in mourning and wished not to comment on the accident. However, Guyana Times was told that after the young man did not return home, his parents attempted to contact him but their calls went unanswered. It was not until the Police contacted them informing them about the accident that they became aware that their son was dead. It is unclear where the young man was coming from when he met his demise.

The Police have launched an investigation into the fatal accident. Messages of condolences to his parents have been flooding the young man’s facebook page.

ith the implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) on services in the public utilities, education and health sectors, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) believes this will be detrimental to citizens and development in Guyana.

During a recent interview with Guyana Times, GCCI President Vishnu Doerga had welcomed the overall reduction in VAT from 16 per cent to 14 per cent. However, he decried the addition of VAT on basic services.

“The overall reduction in the rates is welcome.

However, the imposition of VAT on very basic services like education and healthcare, we do not believe are in the best interests of the development of Guyana,” the businessman said.

Asked about Business Minister Dominic Gaskin’s recent pronouncements that VAT would not drive away investors, Doerga noted that it was true that companies had the option to pass off the expenses to consumers.

“So while investors have a way of making sure that they can reclaim VAT, consumers do not. So it’s not the investors who will be hurt in the first instance, it’s the consumers of this country,” Doerga observed.

He noted that consumers “will then consume less, meaning that the private sector (will earn less), and that further affects the revenue (due to) less taxes being paid by the private sector, which is the longer term effect.”

GCCI President Vishnu Doerga

Director of the privately owned School of the Nations, Dr Brian O’Toole, is also one of the latest in a line of critics of the VAT on education fees. He recently expressed that this was not a move the Government should want to make in 2017, as the imposition of extra charges on school leavers and other disadvantaged youths might bring their valiant efforts to get an education to a halt.

Management of School of the Nations and its sixth form students have since launched a petition against the tax on their education, with the aim of showing just how unpopular the tax measures are.

Government had reduced VAT from 16 per cent to 14 per cent. It had also increased the VAT threshold from $10 million to $15 million. This means that it is not mandatory for certain businesses with an annual income lower than $15 million to register for VAT. In an unprecedented

move, however, the 14 per cent VAT was applied to those whose electricity consumption exceeded $10,000 per month. The extra charges were also slapped on those whose water consumption exceeded $1500 per month.

Except for the ones relating to exports and manufacturing, all items which were previously zero-rated were removed.

When he made his presentation last year, Finance Minister Winston Jordan had projected a rise in VAT collection of 1.7 per cent, amounting to $36 billion.

The main Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP), however, has long denounced the Government’s method of taxing its way to wealth generation. Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee in Parliament, Irfaan Ali, has maintained that the expanded areas of taxation will increase the burden on Guyanese and local businesses.

Ali had observed that in relation to pharmaceutical and medical supplies, the cost of accessing private medical services will increase dramatically. But that’s not all.

He had expressed that private medical staff, such as nurses, medics, laboratory technicians and others may face the risk of losing their jobs, since patients will now be forced to seek medical service from public hospitals, due to prohibitive costs.

All announced changes to VAT took effect from February 1, 2017.

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SunDAY, february 12, 2017 | guyanatimesGY.com

“Whistle” held for Rio, Warlock murders A n East La Penitence, Georgetown man, popularly known as “Whistle”, who was freed on a 2013 murder charge, is presently being grilled for the murders of Ryan Sergeant, who was shot and killed at the Rio Night Club in September 2016 and that of Andrew Fraser who was gunned down in Warlock in January.

Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum told Guyana Times that the suspect was arrested on Thursday and remains in custody. He confirmed that the man was implicated in the murders of the teenager at Rio and that of Fraser in Warlock.

The suspect was reportedly arrested after he discharged several rounds in a

To clamp…

A

Intaz Roopnarine

Ryan Sergeant

Andrew Fraser

residential area. Last year, he was acquitted for the murder of Intaz Roopnarine, who was shot dead at the back of the Cool Square Hotel in Marigold Street, West Ruimveldt.

The businessman, also called “Bobby”, of 169 Mandela Avenue, was shot to his head and relieved of several pieces of expensive jewellery at the time. However, in September last, “Whistle” was wanted for the murder of Ryan “Harry” Sergeant, 19, of Lot 2530 Layon Street, North Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

The teenager was shot once to the jaw during an

exchange of gunfire, which started in the night club and ended outside. In that incident, another young man, Jeffrey Ferrel, was also injured. Meanwhile, with respect to the Warlock murder, the victim, Andrew Fraser, 30, of Lot 565 East La Penitence, Georgetown, was shot at least seven times by two men who exited a motorcar and opened fire.

…or not to clamp

nother day, another twist in the desperate rearguard action to save the parking meter contract that was foisted on the commuters to Georgetown by a bunch of grifters. You know… those folks who swindle you through hustle, deception or fraud. Originally, fellas who ran those sideshows at circuses that targeted the hicks in the boons, they’ve also been dubbed as fraudsters, con artists, cheaters, confidence men, scammers, hustlers, swindlers, etc. But “grifter” invokes the essential small time hustle of the desperate con man at the end of his line. Think Ifa Cush and Royston King!

We’re now informed by a representative of CENTRAL GOVERNMENT that the clamping of vehicles that haven’t coughed up Smart City’s meter fees has been suspended!

So, what about the “respect for the autonomy” of local government that had paralysed Central Government all these months? Shouldn’t the Mayoress made the announcement when she insisted parking meter fees must still be paid?

Is the Mayoress only concerned about revenue flows into Smart City’s coffers? But at a more mundane level away from the vertiginous level of the vertical separation of powers between central and local governments - if the Mayoress had made both announcements, she’d have realised how ridiculous her plea for payment of parking fees sounded when penalties were already lifted! Will folks - who were already pi55ed that they had to pay a New York rate for a third world parking spot - pay because they’re honour-bound? Sheesh! Where’s the Mayoress’ honour?

The grifters have also signalled they’ll slash the parking fees and the Mayoress has condescended to meet with businesses and the MAPM protestors. But this is all a pappy show, designed to deflect from the real issue, isn’t it? And that issue is the contract signed by the Gang of Four at City Hall and the grifters of Smart City Solutions originally fronted by Ifa Kamau Cush.

Has everyone forgotten the fictitious contract claimed

by Royston King with Cush and the precious Town Council on behalf of his company National Parking Solution?

What about the fictitious US addresses provided by Cush for NPS? What about him being a director of Smart City, which was formed a year AFTER it “bought out” NPS? What about Cush’s strong arming Phillips and his company Astrolobe, which had a real signed a contract for parking meters Georgetown - signed by Royston King?

All of these facts about these grifters were in the public domain - including this space - over the last year. Why is it that Central Government turned a blind eye towards them - even now?

The answer is in the contract which MUST be revealed!

No retreat!! No surrender!!

…on Cush’s mouth?

In the art of the hustle, the practiced con man has to know when to keep his mouth shut so he doesn’t let the prospective “mark” glimpse his real conniving persona.

The grifter, on the other hand, remains a small timer, because his ego remains fragile and he can be easily riled.

And we arrive at Ifa Cush’s outburst at the comments on social media by some protesters insisting that the details of the meter contract be revealed.

“You’re not progressives. You are freeloaders; you lack the intestinal fortitude to control your own destiny. You all possess the mentality of slaves, indentured servants, incapable of generating wealth and building capacity.”

Imagine that!! Mouth open and story jump out! From a man who - ironies of ironies - doesn’t have the “intestinal fortitude” to keep his mouth shut! He had to be disowned by the real owners of Smart Solutions, for whom he’d been “steppin’ and fetchin’” and selling us down the river.

They didn’t even know his name was “Kamau” and not “Kaman”!! Ouch!!!

…legal pretentions

It was going to be a showdown in politics, with the legal guns of the Government and the Opposition facing off at twenty paces.

But all Basil Williams, SC, could do was shoot blanks!

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

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SunDAY, february 12, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Parking meter burden

Strong legal grounds exist for quashing of contract – lobby group ...says no to reduction in prices

M

ovement Against Parking Meters (MAPM), the recently-formed lobby group planning a legal challenge against the controversial parking meters implemented in the city, firmly believes that they have the law on their side.

It expressed this view during an interview on the Television Guyana (TVG) programme, the Factor, on Friday. According to MAPM member and legal counsel Pauline Chase, these grounds can be divided into two categories.

Chase observed that the first category was the contract, which was signed before the new City Council was sworn in last year; and the City’s By-laws, which were recently signed

by Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan, just days after he received it.

“The first issue is the contract, whether it’s a legal document or not. We have not seen the document. But there are serious issues regarding legality of the contract,” Chase stated.

“First, the Council has not seen the contract that has been signed (in its entirety). Chapter 28:01, Section 230 (of the Municipal and District Council Act) gives the Council the authority to enter into contracts for the execution of its duties. And it’s exactly as it says, the Council.”

She queried the logic in the presumption that if the contract was signed by just the Town Clerk and/or the Mayor, then the Council had entered into a legally binding contract. The Attorneyat-Law made it clear that that, in itself, can render the contract illegal.

“If you did not have the legal capacity to enter into a contract, you cannot bind.

Secondly, (there is) the issue of tendering. The Municipal and District Council’s Act Chapter 28:01, Section 231 provides that for any contract over and above $250,000 must be tendered.”

“We heard quite an alarming statement from the Town Clerk (Royston King) on a TV programme, that there was no tendering or need to tender. We would disagree with the Town Clerk, because the Act says

view of the contract is so damning. They speak to the

The MAPM panel. From left: Host Neaz Subhan, MAPM Representative Don Singh, Deputy Mayor Sherod Duncan, Attorney-at-Law Pauline Chase and City Councillor Bishram Kuppen

you need to tender.”

Chase said that besides the statutes, common sense and good business practice would dictate that a project of that magnitude would need to be tendered.

“No one builds a fence without getting more than one estimate. No one buys any goods without shopping around. So how do we know that we got the best deal if there was no tendering?”

Section 234 of the Municipal and District Council’s Act Chapter 28:01 speaks of contracts exceeding the value of $250,000 being entered into without publication of tenders or invitations. This provision, the Act states, is only for emergencies and must be taken with the authorisation of the Council.

No reductions

Meanwhile, consultations are underway to bro-

ker a reduction in the rates for using parking meters.

This followed a pronouncement by Government after President David Granger met with Georgetown Mayor Patricia Chase-Green and Town Clerk Royston King.

When asked if it would stop lobbying if there is a reduction in the fees, MAPM was adamant that it would not. According to Don Singh, a representative of the group, MAPM was not opposed to the city earning. He made it clear that the group recognised the need for the M&CC to make money, but he pointed to the shady manner in which the project was implemented and the arbitrary power SCSI has to determine fees.

“We’re saying stop; let’s have a look at it. We have not seen the contract. But the Ministry of Finance re-

fact that SCSI can change fees arbitrarily. So whilst we are on the topic of the President seeking a reduction in fees, they can drop it to $10 tomorrow and raise it back again to $10,000. There are no caps.”

Outgoing Deputy Mayor Sherod Duncan was also present on the panel. He said that the Council has never gotten the chance to debate on the contract, nor was it even asked if it want-

ed parking meters. Noting that under these conditions, a contract could not have been approved by the Council, he challenged proponents of the project to prove otherwise.

“If that was done, bring the minutes. Chapter 28:01 which governs the City Council says that the minutes of our meetings are our legal documents for any issue spoken of at the Council level. So if this contract was approved by the Council, bring those minutes and let us see it.”

Joining the panel was People’s Progressive Party (PPP) representative on the City Council, Bishram Kuppen. He noted that the Council was handed a

contract that was already signed.

“This is a major issue and you can’t bring it to a new Council and tell us that this is the issue here and we’re going to have a discussion and hand us a little brochure. But there were things even in that brochure that raised alarms right away.”

During the first of two recent protests in front of City Hall, the Town Clerk had been asked about the legality of the contract and the rates and penalties prescribed in the By-laws.

King had been adamant that there was no need to tender at the national level. He had also expressed the belief that the penalties were just.

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guyanatimesgy.com

News

Deputy Deeds Registrar wins case against AG

H

igh Court Judge, Justice Brassington Reynolds, ruled that the appointment of Zanna Frank as the Deputy Deeds Registrar is lawful and constitutional – a ruling which flies in the face of the Attorney General Basil Williams who prevented her from performing her duties.

Justice Reynolds handed down his decision in the legal challenge which was filed by Frank against the Attorney General and the Deeds and Commercial Registry Authority.

He ordered that the Deeds and Commercial Authority permit Frank to discharge the functions of her office and to pay her all the salaries which were unlawfully withheld.

Frank, an Attorney-atLaw, was appointed early last year as Deputy

Deputy Deeds Registrar Zanna Frank

Registrar by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), exercising powers conferred upon it via Article 119 of the Constitution.

But this appointment did not sit well with the Attorney General, who claimed that Frank did not meet the criteria for

the position and was being used as a pawn. Williams appointed someone else as acting Deputy Registrar.

Williams indicated that “For the JSC’s appointment, they require three years’ experience in your private practice as a lawyer, or in any one of the registries. Ms Frank has none. She’s not a lawyer of three years, she is not even a lawyer of two years, but what I’m saying is that I’m sorry for her because she’s being used as a pawn.”

According to reports, when the Registrar of Deeds proceeded on annual leave at the end of July, the Attorney General appointed someone else to act as Registrar.

Allegations are that the Registry employees were instructed that this person must perform the functions of the Registrar of Deeds in her absence and not the

Free riders S

Attorney General Basil Williams

appointee of the JSC. Reports were also that Frank was eventually prevented from preforming the functions of her office and her salary was withheld.

At wits end, Frank moved to the High Court to seek justice.

atiricus was grinning so widely, his pals feared he might just dislocate his jaw. His editor has wanted some human interest pieces from the protests against the parking meters in Georgetown, and Satiricus was regaling the fellas with his findings. As usual, the debriefing was being conducted at their usual spot at the back of the Back Street Bar, where in his expansive mood, Satiricus was “standing” for the beer. His report was punctuated regularly with exclamations of “HE was there too?”

“I hope you fellas will stop giving me stick, now you see City Hall backing down on the parking fees!” Satiricus finally concluded.

“Wha’ mek abee gat fug gi’e you credit fuh da?” inquired Bungi, as he signalled for another round.

“Well, you all always criticising my leaders Nagga man and Rum Jhaat,” said Satiricus with a smirk. “And look how they solved the problem!”

“Solved the problem?!” Hari almost shrieked. “What the arse did they do? They weren’t even at the protest!”

“They didn’t HAVE to be at the protest,” said Satiricus.

“They already did what they had to do!”

“Look Sato! Na play abna-babna wid abee,” Bungi said firmly, even though he knew he was threatening his uninterrupted supply of free beer, “how Nagga Man and Rum Jhaat stap de protes’?”

“Same thing I said: you never give them credit,” said Satiricus. “Didn’t you read the moment KFC said they don’t support the meters, the Government and City Hall buckled.”

“What??!!” Hari, did shriek this time. “Yuh run mad, Sato,” said Bungi soberly.

“Your KFC leaders only trying to make up with their youths who voted them out,” said Hari. “You think the Pee-an-See care what they say?”

“Budday, Nagga Man and Rum Jhaat just like dat man, Kamoudi who bring in de meter,” concluded Bungi.

“Nobady na respec’ dem!”

“How can you compare my leaders to that racist!?” demanded Satiricus indignantly.

“The man can’t possibly be a racist,” declared Hari.

“He cuss both slaves and indentureds!”

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SunDAY, february 12, 2017 | guyanatimesGY.com

WPO condemns fatal attack on Berbice mother T

he Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO) has condemned the brazen attack on Lilawatie Muhammed, a mother of four who was shot and killed during a home invasion at Tain Settlement in Port Mourant, Berbice.

“What is so tragic about this dastardly act was that the three murderers showed no mercy to her when they snuffed out her life right in front of her children.

Every time the issue of crime is raised in Guyana, the Minister of Public Security claims that brutal crimes in Guyana are on the decline,” the Organisation stated.

The WPO, the women’s arm of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), called on the Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan and the Government to provide answers on how they will make the women and children in this country feel safe.

“Crimes of this nature only remind Guyanese that their lives are not safe.

It reminds Guyanese that while the Government is busy increasing taxes and destroying peoples’ economic livelihood, the criminals are busy killing people and making them feel unsafe,” the Organisation noted.

Additionally, the WPO commended the Divisional Commander Ian Amsterdam, for his swift response and urges speedy action to bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice.

Muhammed is said to have been involved in a relationship with a wealthy businessman who lives in the community and investigations have revealed that the man is also married.

Following the shooting on Tuesday night, Police arrested one man who, according to information, shared a relationship with the businessman’s wife, who is

Dead: Lilawatie Muhammed

currently overseas.

Amsterdam said the Police followed the leads from text messages on a cellphone.

In 2016, Muhammed’s home at Belvedere was destroyed by fire in what is believed to be an act of arson. The suspects in that act are all overseas.

It has been rumoured that the businessman purchased the house at Tain Settlement where Muhammed and two of her children were living.

“We are looking at some other areas which include the house that was burnt, some people that she worked with… We are now getting the information and targeting the persons that it points to for questioning,” Amsterdam told reporters on Thursday.

Meanwhile, an autopsy conducted on Thursday on the woman’s body revealed that she died of shock and haemorrhaging due to gunshot wounds to the head.

As the investigation continues, Police are hoping to question the businessman.

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SunDAY, february 12, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

President urges New Thriving proprietors to embrace Agro-processing … as New Thriving opens new branch

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s the New Thriving Chinese Restaurant opened its latest branch, President David Granger has encouraged the owners to adopt agro-processing ventures as the business expands its operations.

The Head of State made these comments on Friday evening as the restaurant launched its Providence, East Bank Demerara branch, amid much pomp and ceremony showcasing key aspects of the Chinese

culture.

The proprietors were told that opportunities exist for the restaurant to capitalise on investment in the manufacturing of agricultural materials, which can be utilised at the restaurant. President Granger stressed that in this vein, New Thriving can add its contribution to Guyana’s “green economy”.

The President also highlighted the many achievements and rich cultural practices that Chinese have

brought to Guyana over the last 160 years.

The opening saw invitees being greeted to the tantalising sounds of drums and cymbals, while dancers in dragon costumes intricately moved as the rhythms penetrated. First Lady Sandra Granger was given the honour of cutting the ribbon in the presence of the President, Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Cui Jianchun, Mrs Cui Jianchun, Prime Minister

First Lady Sandra Granger cutting the ribbon in the presence of President David Granger, Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Cui Jianchun, Mrs Cui Jianchun, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and his wife Sita Nagamootoo

Moses Nagamootoo and his wife Sita Nagamootoo and New Thriving’s representatives, Mr Xiao and Ms Ping.

Qiyuan Zhang, who spoke on behalf of the restaurant, expressed grat-

called the humble beginnings of New Thriving on Regent Street, Georgetown.

He pointed out that the business was able to regroup and recapture its customers after a fire gutted the opera-

Guyana’s Government continues to encourage Chinese business operations in Guyana, expressing hope that the newest branch can provide its intended services to the public.

A number of prominent officials were present at the dinner, including Government Ministers, Parliamentary Opposition Members, fellow business proprietors and former President Donald Ramotar.

Those present were treated to a buffet-style dinner and were serenaded with dance, song and a brief runway show by local fashion designer, Sonia Noel.

The new facility, which sits atop the Massy Supermarket, can accommodate about 1000 persons standing at a cocktail

The New Thriving Chinese Restaurant opened its newest Branch at Providence, East Bank Demerara

itude to patrons for supporting the business over the years. Businessman, Dr Yesu Persaud, in offering congratulatory remarks, re-

tions several years ago.

Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador Cui Jianchun told the gathering that he was indeed happy that

event and about 600 individuals seated at dinner.

The New Thriving Chinese Restaurant commenced operations in 1993.

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SunDAY, february 12, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Park the meters!

O

ur once bustling city centre has become a ghost town thanks to the Mayor and City Council (M&CC). Had they done any surveys to find out whose cars were parked on the city streets, they would have discovered that many of them belonged to the employees of the banks, insurance companies, offices and shops in Georgetown’s downtown area.

Georgetown grew up from a colonial port that was convenient for its location at the mouth of the Demerara River – and long before there was any vehicular traffic - to being a busy capital city. How much planning was done along the way to accommodate projected growth appears Ryhaan Shah minimal and building codes in recent years seem to have become meaningless.

The parking meters, if you listen to the Mayor and the Councillors who support this travesty, would magically create order out of the chaos that has been indulged for decades.

There is the distinct feeling that the Municipality counted up all those lovely vehicles parked on the city streets and rubbed their hands with glee at the millions they were going to rake in from a parking meter contract that seems addled in corruption. They thought they had the people cornered.

Well, the people have pushed back.

Some are now being dropped off at work or at shops.

Some are parking on streets not metered and some are walking. (We might have a fitter nation out of all this.) Some have parked their vehicles at home and are using bicycles and motorbikes to get around the city.

The protest is about the secret SCS contract itself, the outrageous parking fees, and about the arrogant manner in which the programme was foisted on the public.

City employees used the streets to park because most businesses do not have space to provide in-house parking.

Their employees simply cannot now afford to pay upwards of $30,000 each month to park their vehicle. Even if reduced by half, this would still be burdensome.

In other countries where parking meters are used in certain downtown areas, most businesses provide free parking spaces for their employees. Banks, shops and supermarkets are also required by planning regulations to provide free parking for their customers.

This maintains order on the roadways, since many vehicles are parked away from any main thoroughfare. But the naked aggression used to break a bridge to a designated, off-road parking area for Teleperformance employees shows that the M&CC are not really interested in bringing order to the city’s streets.

If that was the case, they would encourage and support every business entity willing to find ways to provide similar employee parking. However, M&CC’s Teleperformance performance revealed that the main, or sole objective of their parking meter scheme is to rake in money. And for whom?

The Town Clerk, in his public pleas to the citizenry, assures us that the monies are needed to improve the Municipality’s services. He fails to acknowledge a basic human trait: people will not be fooled all the time.

The citizens of Georgetown are not only fed up of the M&CC’s inability to provide any proper services to keep the environment clean, tidy and healthy, but they are unconvinced that monies collected by the Municipality are being used prudently and in the city’s best interests.

Garbage collectors are never paid on time; drains and gutters continue to be clogged; canals are silted up and overgrown with bush; alleyways are left uncleaned; and the M&CC still fails to understand the simple concept of maintenance.

The Municipality always claims bankruptcy and the citizens are in the dark as to why. The M&CC would help their case tremendously if they welcomed a forensic audit of the Municipality’s accounts which would include a close look at the SCS parking meter contract and a list of those who have defaulted over the years on paying their rates and taxes.

Areas of weakness in their fiscal management could be identified and corrected, and the city’s business community might even partner with the Municipality to maintain vital services if the M&CC shows that they are genuinely cashstrapped.

However, the Municipality’s resistance to every request and effort to have an audit conducted - a resistance supported by the otherwise audit-happy PNC-led Government - only heightens suspicions that the citizenry’s monies are being misspent, misused and, perhaps, even personally pocketed.

For the M&CC to expect Georgetown citizens to simply trust them with millions, when they refuse to account for the millions that have been collected over the years is simply disingenuous. It’s time to park the meters and have a forensic audit of the Municipality’s books.

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

14 news

SunDAY, february 12, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Unlicensed teen shot by Police Younge’s Take …wanted for questioning in recent robbery

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n 18-year-old was shot by Police who went in pursuit of him after he rode away from them, when Police spotted him riding a motorcycle without a helmet.

Orlando Griffith, also called Alex Griffith, of Northern Squatting Area, Georgetown, was later discovered to be an unlicensed rider.

Reports are that the teen, who was shot by Police when he was 15, was seen riding a motorcycle along Freeman Street, Georgetown without a helmet and a Police Officer

gave chase.

Guyana Times was informed that the Police Officer recognised the teen who was wanted for questioning in a recent robbery.

While in pursuit, the Policeman fell off his motorcycle. However, when he got up, he took out his gun and fired two shots in the direction of the teen.

One of the bullets missed but the other hit the teen to his leg and he subsequently fell.

He was picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC).

Alex Griffith

It was there that Police realised that he was not the holder of a licence.

In 2014, Griffith was said to have witnessed a robbery and was taken into custody for questioning.

However, while in custody he was shot by a Cadet Officer. At the time, several social activists had protested over the matter. The Cadet Officer was charged.

However on January of 2015, Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, who was presiding over the matter at the time, dismissed the case because of the lack of evidence.

Taxation and poverty

T

he David Granger administration continues to implement economic policies and initiatives, which, if not rejected by the populace, could see the levels of poverty increasing significantly, as the middle class diminishes.

These policies are so badly designed and contentious, that even specialist economists within the Finance Ministry are having difficulty implementing them and understanding how in the short and long-term they could actually benefit the poor.

This has led to confusion within the Ministry, as some senior officials there are claiming that the Senior Minister Winston Jordan is not acting on their advice, but appears to be following some outdated economic philosophy, which is underpinned by the political grounds of the People’s National Congress.

That Minister and his Junior Michael Younge Colleague, Jaipaul Sharma, are not only doing a horrendous job, but are seemingly enjoying it, despite the public’s criticisms, warnings and justified scepticism displayed by key stakeholders in the financial and business sectors, as well as the citizenry.

These Ministers can no longer afford to take credit for the hard work, projects and deals made by their predecessors before they left Office. Even if they don’t want to admit it, they are still implementing and gaining benefits from the proposals that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) left them.

Surely, they are skilled enough to come up with more modern and futuristic ways of creating economic wealth that would in turn be evenly disturbed to the public. Taxation cannot be the only economic principle they understand.

They must have the ability to come up with policy initiatives to attract domestic and foreign direct investment that could lead to higher levels of job creation for the locals, and an even higher standard of living for the poor and vulnerable.

Also, it is imperative that these Ministers stop increasing taxes on basic Government services and import, as well as export commodities. So far, all of the taxes that they have hiked by considerable amounts affect the working class and the poor. They are placing additional hardships on single mothers and rural families because they have neither the disposable income, nor savings to pay these unsociable increases.

Already, there is VAT on water, electricity and a host of items which the Government foolishly moved from being zero-rated to the exempt list. Property taxes have gone up and the Government has introduced a host of higher taxes which are affecting agro and manufacturing-based businesses. Small businesses are not getting the push they deserve because they are still waiting on the Government to lead the way by negotiating deals with the private sector that could lead to spill-off effects. Taxes on travel have also been increased prematurely, which in turn is affecting domestic travel.

Taxes on State land that have been leased and rented have also been increased. There is a tax on private education and the removal of several concessionary agreements between Government and investors.

Notwithstanding the fact that the Government will yield higher revenues, there will also be a poorer population given the misplaced priorities of the Government. The picture is even clearer when one looks at the millions of dollars spent from the public coffers on Commission of Inquiries, whose recommendations tell us exactly what we knew before they commenced working.

That is where our taxes are being squandered. Our taxes are funding the luxurious vehicles and jacked-up salaries for the Ministers, as well as the other conveniences which they enjoy. Our taxes are used to host all sorts of activities at home and abroad, which have a high political undertone and stench. Our taxes are being misused to fund so called social cohesion activities which are really campaigning events for the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance For Change (AFC) across the country.

Despite garnering higher revenue year after year, crime remains high and our roads remain in a state of disrepair.

Our public education system is still unfunded and performing poorly, whilst the University of Guyana is in the same place where the PPP left it. Inflation is bound to increase and the country’s per capita growth will not show any remarkable increase. The sugar industry is on its last breath and the rice industry is limping along. The middle class is on its death bed, as these repressive measures of the Government are forcing our country back into poverty.

The truth is the taxation policy of the Government will not see an increase in public expenditure that would result in direct benefits for the poor and ordinary Guyanese. Corruption is widespread and public appears to be taking form.

A new course must be charted which is defined by lower levels of taxation on the poor and working class, as well as increased ventures that create wealth for the working class.

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SunDAY, february 12, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Dr Norton, SASOD to lead antidiscrimination law reform

S

ocial Cohesion Minister, Dr George Norton has committed to working with the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD), in reforming the Prevention of Discrimination Act 1997, to protect members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

A SASOD delegation met with the new Social Cohesion Minister at his Ministry of the Presidency Office to discuss their partnership in working to foster cohesiveness in society.

SASOD’s Managing Director Joel Simpson, Social Change Coordinator Jairo Rodrigues and Advocacy and Communications Officer Schemel Patrick, attended the meeting to discuss the Ministry’s public education work, which is pivotal in the prevention of violence and discrimination and is at the heart of SASOD’s work with sexual and gender minorities.

In outlining SASOD’s approach to social cohesion, Simpson discussed a combination approach which gives a “sandwich effect” to achieve social cohesion.

Simpson described the top-down approach, which includes law and policy reform, especially constitutional reform to protect minority groups from discrimination.

He stated that constitutional reform is paramount to sanction discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

He then described the bot-

tom-up approach, which engages communities and educates citizens to curtail their prejudices. “SASOD believes that both approaches need to be taken together to achieve social cohesion in Guyana,” Simpson stated.

the issue of Guyana’s voting record at the recent 71st Plenary Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York in an attempt to rescind the creation of the UN mandate of Independent Expert on violence and dis-

From left: SASOD Social Change Coordinator Jairo Rodrigues; Technical Officer in the Department of Social Cohesion Pamela Nauth; Social Cohesion Minister, Dr George Norton; SASOD Managing Director Joel Simpson and SASOD Advocacy and Communication Officer Schemel Patrick

Patrick elaborated on the need for constitutional and law reform, noting that sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) are not expressed grounds for discrimination in the Guyana Constitution. She also noted that with the absence of specific prohibitions against discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and health status within the Prevention of Discrimination Act 1997, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) persons, as well as people living with HIV and other stigmatised illnesses, are subject to discrimination with impunity in the labour sector.

Simpson also raised

crimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

The Social Cohesion Ministry is currently engaged in delivering “Diversity and Inclusion” training education programmes to various communities across the country as part of their public education mandate.

Minister Norton expressed his delight to meet with the delegation and commitment to working with SASOD in achieving mutual objectives. He requested that SASOD prepare a Draft Amendment Bill to the Prevention of Discrimination Act 1997 for his Ministry to consider.

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SunDAY, february 12, 2017 | guyanatimesGY.com

Juice contract

AG to advise Govt on compensation for Topco – Harmon A ttorney General Basil Williams is expected to advise Government on the recommendation to compensate a local juice company, which was wronged in the Education Ministry’s awarding of a contract.

Tropical Orchard Products Company (Topco), a subsidiary of Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), recently won its appeal to the Bid Protest Committee over the Government’s decision to award its supply contract to another company – from Suriname.

The Bid Protest Committee, which was established to facilitate appeals for the review of contracts, ruled that the Education Ministry did not follow the proper criteria in awarding its contract and that the local juice company therefore needs to be compensated.

But Government is yet

Topco recently won its appeal to the Bid Protest Committee over the Government’s decision to award its supply contract to another company – from Suriname

to make a decision based on the ruling made by the Bid Protest Committee.

According to Minister of State Joseph Harmon, the Attorney General is charged with advising the Government on all legal matters.

Education Minister Dr Rupert Roopnaraine, had in-

dicated that his Ministry is still reviewing the report compiled by the Committee.

Topco was a long-time supplier of juices to the Guyana Government for its national school feeding programme.

That is until the Education Ministry, the procuring entity, deemed its bid for a con-

tinuation of the contract unsuitable, based on past performance.

According to the Committee, which is based at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), the Education Ministry failed to make known that past performance was a criterion for selection beforehand.

The evaluation committee also observed that the Ministry used an “unlawful procedure to assess the bid of (Topco)”.

The evaluation committee has a specific remit from which it should not deviate.

Firstly, it must only use the evaluation criteria that are in the tender documents to evaluate the bidders. Secondly, using these criteria, it determines the lowest evaluated tender.

“Thirdly, it conveys its recommendation to the procuring entity in a timely manner.

No scope is given to the evaluation committee to use any criteria, other than what is set out in the tender.”

The Bid Protest Committee went on to rule that pursu-

ant to Section 53 (5) of the Procurement Act, the procuring entity is ordered to compensate the Complainant for the cost of the preparation of its bid.

The bidding was done by restricted tendering. The other six bidders were Caribbean International Distribution Inc, Guyana Beverage Inc, Banks DIH, Topco, ANSA McAL Trading Ltd and Continental Foods Inc. Topco’s bid, $506.6 million, was the lowest one of all. Citing issues with performance, such as expiration dates being breached and spoilage, the Ministry wrote Topco a letter to inform the company that it had been unsuccessful.

Despite Topco responding and asking for its bid to be reviewed in accordance with the criteria set out in the bid documents, Government did not reply. This stance continued until Topco complained to the Bid Protest Committee.

After Topco lost its bid last year, Government awarded the contract to supply boxed juices locally to Caribbean International Distribution

Minister of State Joseph Harmon

Inc (CIDI), a subsidiary of Rudisa Beverages Company of Suriname. It is a decision that was criticised as Topco was a local company providing employment to many, as it sources its raw materials for juice from local farmers.

This bid protest committee will complement the work of the Public Procurement Commission to further Government’s commitment to transparency in the public procurement process.

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SunDAY, february 12, 2017 | guyanatimesGY.com

Govt promises further $77M contract approved for living quarters at Mazaruni Prison VAT reduction next C year

I

n what was explained to be a phased reduction of the Value Added Tax (VAT) regime, the coalition Government says 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 added 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.

Following the presentation of the 2017 Budget in November last year, Government had come under widespread criticisms from vari-

the two per cent VAT reduction in Budget 2017, it quickly snatched it away with the new tax charges on these consumer services.

During his budget presentation in December, Finance Minister Winston Jordan had stated that the revised VAT rate was based on recommendations of the Tax Reform Committee, which was set up by the Head of State, and the Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Centre

(CARTAC) ous sections of society over the new tax measures. study.

However, in its analMuch to the satisfaction and anticipation of Guyanese, ysis of the Government’s Government announced a Financial Plan, eminent two per cent reduction in accounting firm Ram and VAT, but before this could McRae found that the rehave been digested, it made duction of VAT from 16 per the swift announcement of cent to 14 per cent differs the extension of VAT pay- from those of CARTAC and ments on water and electric- the TRC in very significant ity bills that exceed $1500 ways. CARTAC recommendand $10,000 per month, re- ed two rates – 16 per cent spectively. Another area and 8 per cent. The TRC recthat VAT charges were im- ommended 14 per cent and plemented on was the edu- seven per cent.

Meanwhile, as it relates cation sector, with private educational institutions to the application of VAT on now being made to pay the electricity and water, the accounting firm found that at 14 per cent tax.

According to President the proposed rate of VAT, Granger, while Government “this is likely to cause a subis keen to further lower the stantial increase in the VAT VAT rate from the recent- borne by affected taxpayly reduced 14 per cent, he ers.”

On the matter of the cannot say what the new revised figures would be. elimination of all zero-ratMoreover, he explained that ed items, except those perGovernment will also be re- taining to exports and manducing the number of items ufacturing inputs, Ram and that attract VAT charges. McRae found that the conseAgain, he did not go into de- quences of these proposals tail about whether the taxa- are severe: “We have taktion on these services would en an actual spending of a taxpayer and calculated the be reduced.

“We will reduce the VAT under the current and amount of items and reduce proposed regimes… VAT inthe rates at which those creases by 155 per cent and items are taxed, but I don’t total expenditure by 7.3 per want to make a prediction cent.” According to the analnow because the govern- ysis supplied by Ram and ment’s spending is based on McRae; “All taxpayers will its earnings,” the President have different spending patterns, but we believe that stated.

This move to reduce the they will face increases in 16 per cent VAT was done their spending… It is not by the coalition to fulfil one without significance that of its 2015 campaign and while the economy is projected to grow by 3.5 per cent, manifesto promises.

But stakeholders have VAT collections are expected since expressed that while to raise by an average of 25 Contact sundayarrow@gmail.com per cent on imports, as well the current Administration gave the hopes of relief with as domestic supplies.”

abinet has approved the sum of $77 million for the construction of six living quarters at the Mazaruni Prison, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

Minister of State Joseph Harmon, on Friday, announced that the contract was allocated in two lots, with one lot attracting $41,127,930 and the other lot attracting $35,820,000. They have been awarded to N&A Construction and to AAV Raghubeer General Construction respectively.

Harmon underscored that the living quarters at the prison are currently in a deplorable state, which were not conducive for the prison officers employed there.

“The living quarters were in a deplorable state and needed attention… as soon as they were off-duty, they were going home and it cost them about $10,000 ev-

The Mazaruni Prison, Region Seven ery time they had to travel and if you look at the salary of a prison officer, we needed to do something to ensure the conditions which they lived and worked were improved,” he explained.

The Minister stressed that the Government wants to create a condition where the prison officers enjoy a certain level of comfort, so that in return, they can execute their duties effectively.

Government had injected over $350

million into expansion works at the Mazaruni Prison located in Region Seven, to accommodate more inmates as part of efforts to address the overcrowding at the Camp Street, Georgetown, facility.

This budgeted sum was forecasted to cater for the expansion of offices, inmate living facilities, staff and family living facilities, training facilities, as well as the construction of a school, daycare centre, and places of worship.

18 news

SunDAY, february 12, 2017 | guyanatimesGY.com

Children’s costume parade lights up Georgetown

A

fter a one-year hiatus, the Education M i n i s t r y ’ s Children’s Mashramani Costume Parade was held on Saturday and showcases creativity at its best with a kaleidoscope of colours.

Over 50 schools and organisations from the 10 administrative regions in Guyana took to the streets of Georgetown to display their costumes, as well as their incredible dance moves.

Hundreds of spectators cascaded the streets of Georgetown in support of the event which featured

schools along the East Coast of Demerara, and floats from various regions across the country.

Onlookers were left in amazement at the spectacle that was before them, as the children all gyrated to popular soca vibes, topped with those from several Guyanese artistes, including Jumo Primo’s “Stir de pot”, which did not fail to hype up the crowd, despite the blazing heat, prancing their way into the National Park.

The procession descended under favourable sunshine at 10:00h from Parade Ground, proceeding

along Middle Street, then turning at Camp Street into Lamaha, and finally heading into the National Park, Georgetown.

The energetic children in flamboyant costumes incorporated this year’s Mashramani Theme “Celebrate with Liberty, Dignity and Greater Unity”, depicting colours of the National flag.

Screams and shouts of amusement came from the onlookers who graced the city streets in anticipation, eager to see the next float that would pass their way.

The paraders did not

fail to impress with exceptional performances from the Bishops’ High School, The department of Education Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and

costumes, while St John’s College and St Barnabas Special School flaunted red and white costumes in sync with the Valentines spirit.

TakutuU p p e r Essequibo) made their presence known with radiant floats, while spectators stood in awe at

the Police A Division (Georgetown/East Coast Demerara) groups, who were well organised in their dance choreography

North Georgetown Secondary School’s presentation added heat to the atmosphere with the “solar invasion” theme, while

Region Seven’s (CuyuniMazaruni) multicoloured costume and float.

The hinterland scholarship students were also

among others.

Thomas Moore Primary School sported an aca-

Lodge Secondary School depicted a Green Guyana.

The remote districts

among the standout all decked in their traditional attire.It was an exciting

demic theme; “math time is fun time”, gracing the streets in gold and blue

of Regions One (BarimaWaini), Eight (PotaroSiparuni) and Nine (Upper

morning for all those who was part of the affair.

sunDAY, february 12, 2017

Petra/Milo U-18 Schools Football…

BHS stutter thanks to Masters Academy

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GFF Youth Development teams optimally prepared for ATCs

GFF’s Technical Director, Ian Greenwood conducting a classroom session at the National Resource Centre on Thursday

− Masters Academy hand BHS a stuttering start Part of the action on Saturday at the Ministry of Education Ground

T

he Bishops’ High School hopes of having a positive start in this year’s Petra Organised Milo under-18 Schools Football Championships received a set back as they went down to Masters Academy 3-1 on Saturday at the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta after James Walcott scored a brace.

The Carmichael Street unit took the early lead when the talented Darin Chan breached the opposition’s defence in the 5th minute but the Masters responded when James Walcott found the equaliser in the 12th minute. The action packed first half ended 1-1 and a tantalizing second 35 minutes was anticipated.

Three minutes into the second half Walcott etched his name on the score sheet again; teammate Teon Vankenic then laid the final nail in the coffin in the 59th.

Meanwhile, North Ruimveldt and St. Joseph High played to a 1-1 draw with Jerren Shepherd netting in the 61st for St. Joseph’s while Omar Sinclair equalized in the 66th.

The other match brought an anti-climax to proceedings as St. Rose’s won via walkover from Houston Secondary and likewise defending champions Chase Academy won identical fashion against Freeburg Secondary.

Action will continue today at the same venue from 11:00h when Lodge Secondary clash with St. Mary’s Secondary followed by Kingston Secondary and East Ruimveldt from 12:30hrs.

Tucville Secondary will then play St, John’s College from 14:00h then

the headline match in Morgan Learning Centre and Charlestown Secondary from 15:30h.

The placement of teams into group sees Group A comprising of: BHS, St Roses High, St. Winefred Secondary and Huston Secondary; Group B: North Ruimveldt Secondary, C h a s e

Academy, St. Joseph High and Freeburg Secondary; Group C: Lodge Secondary, St. Marry’s High, East Ruimveldt Secondary and Group D: Tucville Secondary, Morgan’s Learning Centre, St. John’s Secondary and Charlestown Secondary.

Group E contains Richard Ishmael Secondary, Christ Church Secondary, Brickdam Secondary and Cummings Lodge Secondary; Group F: South Ruimveldt Secondary, Sir Leon’s Lesson, Queenstown Secondary and Carmel Secondary; Group G: North Georgetown, Central High, School of the Nations and Dolphin Secondary and Group H: Mae’s Secondary, St. George’s Secondary, Tutorial High and Queen’s College.

Much is at stake for the top teams with trophies and cash payouts of $500,000 for the winner, $300,000 for first runner up and $200,000 and $100,000 for third and fourth placed teams respectively which will go towards various school projects.

T

he nine Technical Development Officers (TDOs) and 14 Youth Development Coaches (YDCs) who will coordinate the new GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centres (ATC) put the final touches to their preparations on Friday, training with GFF Technical Director Ian Greenwood and his expanded, new team in Georgetown.

This event was held at the National Resource Centre from the afternoon of Thursday February 10, 2017 and consisted of classroom and practical sessions.

“This stepping stone is going to be really fantastic for a lot of footballers,” said Ryan Alcides, the new TDO for the Rupununi region. “Football is going to the next level and I’m excited to partake in this programme. The impact is really going to help a lot of kids.”

“It’s going to have a real impact on the development of football,” said Georgetown Football Association’s (GFA) TDO Sampson Gilbert. “For years, we’ve been looking for a programme like this to move football in Guyana forward.”

The ATC, a nationwide programme and the first of its kind in Guyana, rolled out yesterday with the East Bank Demerara Football Association (EBFA) hosting an academy session from 09.30h with young players from across the region.

There will be 13 GFF-Scotiabank ATCs across the country in the first wave of the programme, designed to boost participation in football and to give the most talented boys and girls from the nine GFF Regional Member Associations (RMAs) the best chance to reach their full potential.

The programme is part of the GFF’s mission to reform and develop football, with the aim of putting Guyana at the top of football nations in the Caribbean. The GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centres will provide weekly training from grassroots sessions for 5-11 year olds to professional coaching for older boys and girls aimed at preparing them for the demands of international youth football.

“The country will benefit a great deal,” said Akilah Castello, a former women’s national player who will be tasked with scouting and developing new talent in the Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA) region. “It’s the first time in Guyana we have seen football taken so seriously and seen women involved in this way. We will have more women playing, and that will encourage others to join. It will inspire others to come along and play.”

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guyanatimesGY.com

sundAY, february 12, 2017

2nd T20 World Cup Cricket Tournament for the Blind

India to defend title against unbeaten Pakistan today A fter convincing wins at the semifinals, defending champions India and unbeaten Pakistan will clash in today’s final at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore to bring the curtains down on the second edition of the T20 World Cup Cricket Tournament for the Blind.

In semifinal one, Sri Lanka hardly put up a fight and went down to defending champions, India by 10 wickets.

India openers, Prakash with a brilliant century and Ajay Reddy with a well calculated half century raced home with seven overs to spare. Prakash, a B3 player hit 23 fours from 52 balls in compiling 115 while Reddy a B2 player made 51 (30 balls; 8x4).

When Sri Lanka batted, opener and most consistent batsman Suranga Sampath made 49 and Chandana Deshapriya 42 but it was Sunil (2-21)

All to play for today at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore as the curtains come down on a wonderful tournament

and Ranbir Panwar (2-29) who bowled their full quota of four overs each to stifle the visitors.

In semifinal two, Pakistan also made light work of England with a mammoth 147-run victory. Batting first, Pakistan who played the entire preliminary round unbeaten made a whopping 309/1 with openers Israr Hassan and Badar Munir putting on 255 runs for the first wicket in 16.4 overs. B3 player, Hassan was unbeaten on 143 from 69 balls with 25 fours and a six when the overs ran out while B2 player Munir retired on 103 which was made from 43 balls with 18 fours.

In reply, B1 bowler Muhammad Zafar took 2-17 to keep the English batsmen in check. Opener Mathew Page made 41 while number seven batsman Luke Sugg chipped in with 34 not out as England ended on 162/7.

India are the defending champions but will have their work cut out for a title repeat when they run in to their red hot neighbours, Pakistan. The tournament started on January 31 with 10 teams including the West Indies who finished in seventh position after accumulating nine points from three wins.

CWI Regional Super50

Scorpions warm up for semi-finals with win J

Damion Jacobs acts cool after dismissing Nikhil Dutta for a first ball duck

SCOREBOARD ICC Americas innings (Maximum 50 overs) K Leverock c wkpr DC Thomas b Leveridge 14 H Tariq b Jacobs 32 N Kumar b Brown 1 S Wijeyeratne lbw b Jacobs 19 A Dodson c Campbell b Jacobs 12 T Allen c Powell b Jacobs 0 N Dutta lbw b Jacobs 0 SB Zafar c Powell b Jacobs 6 J Singh c Jacobs b D Sewell 0 M Ali Khan not out 5 Extras (w-13, nb-3) 16 Total (All out, 31 overs) 133 FOW-1-20, 2-23, 3-89, 4-91, 5-113, 6-113, 7-113, 8-122, 9-123, 10-133 Bowling- Leveridge 5-0-171 (w-3, nb-2), Brown 5-1-271 (w-7, nb-1), Powell 3-019-0 (w-1), Jacobs 10-1-34-6 (w-1), Sewell 3-0-11-1 Jamaica Scorpions innings

(Target 134 from 50 overs) C Walton c Wijeyeratne b Sin gh 15 S Taylor b Khan 1 P Palmer c wkpr Tariq b Khan 17 A McCarthy c wkpr Tariq b Zafar 47 D Thomas+ c Leverock b Zafar 43 J Campbell not out 9 R Powell not out 0 Extras (w-2) 2 Total (For 5 wickets, 23.4 overs) 134 Did not bat-D Jacobs, D Sewell, G Brown, R Leveridge FOW-1-12, 2-16, 3-48, 4-114, 5-133 Bowling-Singh 5-0-26-1 (w2), Khan 6-1-39-2, Zafar 7-0-29-2, Dutta 5-0-40-0 Result: Scorpions won by 5 wickets Points; Scorpions 5, ICC Americas 0 Player of the match Damion Jacobs (Jamaica Scorpions)

amaica Scorpions warmed up for the Super50 semifinals with a convincing five wicket victory over ICC Americas in their final group B game yesterday in Barbados.

After bowling out ICC Americas for a paltry 133, the Scorpions wasted no time in getting to 134/5 from 23.4 overs.

In ICC innings, it was the leg spin of Damion Jacobs with 6-34 that did the damage as only Hamza Tariq with 32 and former Guyanese youth player Alex Amsterdam 28 showing any batting pedigree.

When the Scorpions batted, Andre McCarthy made 47 and Devon Thomas 43

to hasten the result.

Saad Bin Zafar and Muhammad Ali Khan picked up two wickets each.

Jamaica Scorpions and Barbados Pride are the two team to qualify for the semifinals from Group B. Meanwhile in Group A, Leeward Islands Hurricanes with 28 points and Trinidad and Tobago Red Force with 26 points will play each other in the final group match today to see who will top the group.

Both teams are assured of semifinal positions but will want to continue winning to keep the momentum.

The Guyana Jaguars returned home on Friday.

ICC Americas’ top scorer Hamza Tariq was bowled by Scorpions’ best bowler Damion Jacobs (not in photo)

Cyclists take on 75 miles of road today

The hills along the Linden/Soesdyke Highway are part of today’s terrain

T

he cycling season 2017 is picking up steam following its opening event in January, now cyclists from across the country will converge for another grueling race today.

The top wheelsmen will compete in the Horace Burrowes led Guyana Cycling Federation’s first activity of the year, a 75 mile road race pedaling off from the usual starting point, in front of the National Sports Commission from 07:30h. The riders will proceed along the familiar route along Mandela Avenue onto the East Bank of Demerara Public Road before reaching the Linden/Soesdyke Highway where they will make the Coca Cola sign the half way mark as they turn back to follow the same route and finish at the point of origin.

The Guyana Cycling Federation will be looking

for a more impactful year after the governing body came under heavy scrutiny from various cycling enthusiasts, nevertheless the action is expected to be as competitive as the previous years with riders such as last year’s best rider, Team Evolution’s Orville Hinds as well as his team mates, Michael Anthony, Team Cocos Hamza Eastman and Stephano “Sunny” Husbands will be in the mix alongside Linden Bauxite Flyers Shaquel Agard.

The juniors’ category will see the We Stand United duo, Andrew Hicks and Raphael Leung looking to maintain their dominance as well as Team Cocos Junior Niles in the Veterans division.

Prizes would be awarded to the top five cyclists overall while the first three juniors and veterans would also be rewarded.

Former GFF President to now heads UWS Cycling Club

P

resident of the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Franklin Wilson has taken on the challenge of being at the helm of the United We Stand Cycling Club (UWSCC) which is based at 49 Old Road Craig, East Bank Demerara.

Also elected on the executive are the experienced Joseph Britton as First Vice President with the Second and Third Vice president’s positions taken by Michael Bradford and Englebert Leung. Returning as Secretary is Maria Leung with Renita Perrier as Treasurer.

Serving as Assistant Secretary / Treasurer is Debbie Jeffrey. The club will shortly be naming its Club Captain and Coach, respectively.

Wilson, who is a former Guyana Football Federation President, thanked the members of the club for resting such confidence in him after being approached to serve in that capacity noting that the club felt that he had something to offer with re-

Franklin Wilson gards to taking them to a higher level.

He promised to do his best towards charting a solid developmental path for the club and the young riders and stated that staying in school with a view towards achieving academically, would be encouraged.

Newly elected President of UWSCC, one of the youngest clubs affiliated to the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF), Wilson noted that he would be reaching out to other clubs with a view of working together for the benefit of the sport and athletes, in Guyana.

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sports

21

Regal teams eager to

dominate

Florida Cup tournament

Nirmala Sukhram (left) hands over sponsorship to Videsh Persaud at Prem’s Electrical Store on Friday

W

ith consistent local performances that resulted in many championships and credible showings on the international scene, Regal Masters and All-Star teams will once again take on the Florida Cup 2017 which is billed for February 24-26 at Brian Picollo Park, Fort Lauderdale.

Vice-skipper Mahendra Hardyal of the veteran side said he is brimming with high confidence and expects positive results by the completion of another softball extravaganza in North America.

“I think we [are] in a confident mood to do well in USA later this month; our guys are working very hard in terms of preparations and that has given us the impetus to believe that a championship would be materializing,” Hardyal related.

Regal, both the Open and Masters competed in their debut season in 2015 with an excellent impression and in 2016 did well to make it to the semifinals. This year they are aiming to go a step further and win the championships, according to the all-rounder.

“We have been doing well in the local and overseas tournaments and I know my boys (Open and Masters) will continue to do good in a different competition,” Hardyal declared.

Adding to their prolific reputation, Regal swept the New York Independence Cup last August winning both the Open and Masters trophies and Hardyal feels that would also serve as a catalyst to their already established enthusiasm.

Again, Regal will be expecting match-winning performances from the likes of the flamboyant Richard Latiff, Safraz Esau, Patrick Rooplall, Gavin Singh, Martin Dutchin, Fazal Rafeek in the Open Category while Hardyal will be counting on his ageing boys like Eon Abel, Eric Thomas, Mahase Chunilall, Rudolph Baker, captain Troy Kippins, Laurie Singh, Fazleem Mohamed, Raymond Harper, Mahendra Arjune among others.

Since the inauguration of the tournament approximately 13 years ago, Guyanese teams have been making steady and admirable impacts. Their (Regals) participation and success were simultaneously sweet alluding to the fact Guyana celebrated its 50th Independence Anniversary in 2016 and again the Honorary Consul of Guyana would have a celebration as part of the tournament, according to a report.

Hardyal mentioned that the players would want to maximize on the opportunity to showcase their talent on this huge softball occasion. He added they have intensified their preparations under the watchful eyes of the experienced coach Clive Grimmond at the Guyana National Industrial Corporation venue in Georgetown.

He stated that they don’t want to change any strategies and would use the same winning formula.

“Our senior guys have said they are anxious to add another trophy to their collection and confident of winning the tournament; however, we would not take any team for granted but we want to fire on all cylinders,” Hardyal commented.

Apart from Regal sides, Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) will be participating again.

The association is set to field two teams as well with defending champions Floodlights and GFSCA Legends set to make the three-day event again.

Teams from Canada, the hosts city and New York are expected to be on show as well. The finals for both categories will be played at Central Broward Regional Park and Stadium, Ford Lauderhill with the victorious All-Stars side pocketing US$3,000 and the Masters taking home US$2,000 as the monetary prizes to go with the usually spectacular trophies.

Meanwhile, Prem’s Electrical Store of Alexander street Georgetown have come on board as a sponsor of the Regal teams to make the trip possible. Manager, Nirmala Sukhram made the presentation at the store recently to up and coming Regal All Star player, Videsh Persaud.

(Contribution by Ravi Madholall)

22

Guinness Greatest of the Street West Dem/East Bank Zone…

Showstoppers shoot 5 past All-Stars D

guyanatimesgy.com

sundAY, february 12, 2017

efending champions Showstoppers continues to send strong signals of a title repeat when they hammered five goals into Good Intent All-Stars as the Guinness Greatest of the Street West Demerara/East Bank Zone continued on Friday evening at the Pouderoyen tarmac.

The resounding victory for the champions was orchestrated by braces by Dexroy Adams and Kayode King. Adams scored in the 5th and 12th while King netted in the 17th and 22nd; Marvin Josiah was the other scorer in the 15th.

Similarly, John Waldron’s hat-trick lead Hustlers to 5-0 drubbing of Patentia Street Ballers. Waldron breached the defence in the 3rd, 16th and 18th while Deon Charter added to the woes on the 7th and 24th.

In Patentia’s second match they suffered yet another defeat but this time at the hands of Agricola. Onacy Bernard scored in the 8th for East Bank unit while Sheldon Gorrick found the equalizer in the 16th. The spot kicks found favour for Agricola with them 2-0.

Newcomers ESPN won 3-2 on penalty kicks after playing one-all draw against Harmony Ballers; Nicquan Nestor scored for ESPN in the 15th while Nickosie Holder scored in the 10th.

West Side Ballers also continued on their winning streak as they defeated Brother United 2-0 via goals from Gideon Payne (14th) and Andre Hector (24th).

Money Team won 1-0 on penalty kicks after they had a goalless draw with Jetty Gunners.

Anthony Sancho (5th) and Donovan Francis (19th) eased Hustlers to a 2-0 over Golden Warriors while a double by Lexroy Manfield (6th) and (19th) saw Tajoe’s Admiral United winning by an identical score line against De Kinderen.

Goal Getters won 3-2 on sudden death penalty kicks after their match with Young Ballers ended goalless.

The championships continue Thursday at the same venue while the grand finals are slated for Saturday.

The top teams are competing for a first place prize of $450,000 with second place to fourth, receiving $150,000, $100,000 and $50,000 respectively.

4 more teams battle in KPL fundraiser today T

he softball war continues today with more action in the KPL Fundraiser at the Everest Cricket Club, Camp and Carifesta Avenue. From 09:30h, four teams will battle for the Dave’s Pharmacy trophy beginning with semifinals.

On Pitch One, Better Hope All-Stars take on Farm XI while on Pitch Two, Pigeon XI battle Super Star Xi with the winners going on to play in the final from 13:30h.

The matches are part of the ongoing fund raising drive for Samuel Kingston who requires eye surgery in Trinidad and Tobago

Samuel Kingston

this month end. Kingston who also plays the lovely game was hit in his eye at the Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) ground last November and will go under the knife at a cost of US$5,000.

After surgery Kingston is required to spend 14 to 16 days recovering and receiving treatment before being allowed to travel and as such requires additional funds.

Dave’s Pharmacy of Albert Street Alberttown is a long standing fiend of softball cricket and has once again thrown his support for Samuel Kingston.

Hamid Foundation U-23 basketball continues tonight −Kwakwani face Royals, Raiders meet Pistons

D

ay two of the Linden Amateur Basketball Foundation (LABA)/ Hamid Foundation Under 23 basketball championship will see Kwakwani and Christianburg Pistons making their debuts tonight at this level in separate encounters.

At the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court at 18.30h the first game of the double header pits Kwakwani against the number two ranked Victory Valley Royals, in this eight team championship. In the second game Christianburg Pistons will face the fourth ranked Retrieve Raiders in an evening of high expectations.

T h e teams are group in two with group A having top ranked half Mile Bulls, fourth ranked retrieve Raiders, Pistons and Bock 22 Flames while in group B are second seed Royals, third ranked Amelia's ward jets, Christianburg Pistons Bankers Trust Falcons.

The championship will continue next Friday where two more matches are set for the MSC hard court with game one bringing together Bulls and Pistons and game two is between Jets and Royals.

guyanatimesgy.com

sundAY, february 12, 2017

23

Petra/Limacol Round-robin Knock-out Football…

Police oust Riddim Squad – Round-robin wraps up with double-header at MSC tonight

G

uyana Police Force FC ensured their safe passage to the quarter-finals of the 2nd annual Petra Organised Limacol round-robin knock-out football tournament after they defeated Riddim Squad 2-1 on Friday evening at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC), Bourda.

With the lawmen only needing a draw to qualify for the next round, Quincy Holder and Dwayne Jacobs stepped up to the task of

Quincy Holder (left) and Dwayne Jacobs

Current Points Standings Group-A Team

GP

W

L

D

GF GA

GD

Pts

Winners Connection

2

1

0

1

3

1

+2

4

Milerock

3

1

1

0

3

4

-1

4

Grove Hi-Tech

2

1

1

0

2

2

0

3

Northern Rangers

3

0

1

2

2

3

-1

1

Team

GP

W

L

D

GF GA

GD

Pts

Western Tigers

3

3

0

0

6

3

+3

9

Eagles

2

1

1

0

2

2

0

3

Uitvlugt

3

1

2

0

6

6

0

3

NA United

3

0

2

0

2

5

-3

0

Team

GP

W

L

D

GF GA

GD

Pts

Den Amstel

2

2

0

0

3

0

+3

6

Santos

3

1

1

1

4

2

+2

4

Ann’s Grove

2

1

0

1

3

2

+1

4

Pouderoyen

3

0

3

0

1

7

-6

0

Team

GP

W

L

D

GF GA

GD

Pts

Guyana Police Force

3

2

0

1

5

3

+2

7

Mahaica

2

1

0

1

5

3

+2

4

Camptown

2

0

1

1

1

2

-1

1

Riddim Squad

3

0

2

1

3

6

-3

1

Group-B

Group-C

Group-D

providing a trilling finish.

In the 45th minute, Holder had a one-one with the keeper, which he easily sent to bed; the Mochabased unit had a chance to equalize just before the blow of the half-time whistle but that attempt was deemed off-side.

The second half certainly was even more invigorating with Riddim Squad chasing a victory to remain in the tournament and Dorville Stewart changed the complexity of the match when he scored in the 60th after maneuvering his way through the mid-field then slotting to the low left of the keeper.

It then took an injury time goal (90+2) by the experienced Dwayne Jacobs, as he tapped-in a deflection from a Holder strike.

In the earlier match, Santos hammered three goals into a listless Pouderoyen to give their side a chance of progressing in the tournament.

Keith Canines in the 35th, Okinie Fraser (40th) and Robby McEloccon in the 52nd were the marksmen.

Bourda hosts Saints Premier League QF today

A

n exciting day of tape ball cricket is expected today in the quarterfinals of the fourth edition of Saints Premier League 10/10 tournament at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) Ground, Bourda.

Leading the list of quarterfinalist is three time champions United All-rounders, commonly known as Liahona Pacesetters from Goed Fortuin West Bank Demerara.

The reigning champs will clash with Vikings from New Road Vreed-en-Hoop in their quarterfinal bout and that match is expected to highlight the day’s proceedings In the other matches East Coast teams Spartas and Mosiah will play each other, Georgetown Rising Stars and Durban Park Warriors are set to face each other while Diamond Scorchers and Long Road Rangers will do battle.

The semifinals and final are schedule for Sunday February 19 at a venue yet to be named.

However, the organisers are seeking to utilize the historical Bourda ground for the final.

The tournament started with 12 teams and the finalist as well as top performers will receive trophies.

The city side will now have to hope Ann’s Grove United lose their top-ofthe table clash with Den Amstel last evening to qualify.

The tournament will move to the McKenzie Sports Club Ground (MSC) tonight with three home sides taking to the field.

In the first match, Eagles United will face New Amsterdam from 18:30h followed by the headline clash of Milerock and Winners Connection from 20:30h.

As incentive for teams to top their respective groups, the winner of each group will receive $100,000 while the remaining teams will pocket $50,000, $30,000

Santos marksmen (L-R) Okinie Fraser, Robby McEloccon and Keith Caines and $20,000 apiece in order of placing.

Winner of the event will pocket $500,000 and a trophy while the second, third and fourth placed teams will receive $300,000, $200,000 and $100,000 respectively and the corre-

sponding accolade.

Banks DIH Limited under the GT Beer Brand, Trophy Stall and Star Party Rentals are the other companies that have thrown their support behind the championship.

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

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

Petra/Limacol Round-robin Knock-out Football…

Police oust Riddim Squad

Pg 23

− Round-robin wraps up with double-header at MSC tonight Police Force FC Quincy Holder certainly had Riddim Squad’s defence on their toes the entire evening at the GFC Ground

GFF Youth Development teams optimally prepared for ATCs

Pg 19

TDO Lyndon France makes a point to the Youth Development Coaches at the National Resource Centre

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