September, Thursday 21, 2017

P2

St Ignatius advances to 2nd leg of JOF Debating Competition Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Thursday, September 21, 2017

Issue No. 3338

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Govt, Exxon exploring use of natural gas for electricity

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Berbice teenager missing

P10

... alleged child molester in custody

Page 3

New Demerara River bridge

Bridge not viable without billions in annual subsidy

Two 9-yearold boys P14 accuse teen of sexual molestation – in Berbice Pensioner killed in Herstelling accident

P9

– minibus driver fails breathalyser test, to appear in court today

...astronomical increases in tolls will barely cover operational costs – consultants

Page 2

An artist’s impression of what the new 'curved' bridge across the Demerara River will look like

Sugar workers paid after 2 weeks

GTM records $16M decline in after-tax profit for 2016

Page 12

– compared to previous year

Granger tells world’s elite of Venezuela’s growing militaristic threats Page 7

At Meten-Meer-Zorg

Man killed in hit-and-run accident P9

…driver arrested

Man jailed for vandalising Minister’s house P8

Page 14

Hurricane Maria P16 blamed for 2 deaths in Guadeloupe

2 news

thursDAY, september 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

New Demerara River bridge

Bridge not viable without billions in annual subsidy ...astronomical increases in tolls will barely cover operational costs – consultants

An artist’s impression of what the new ‘curved’ bridge across the Demerara River will look like

By Gary Eleazar

T

he Guyana Government is forging ahead with its plans to construct a new Demerara River bridge currently pegged at US$170 million, minus additional costs such as the mandatory accompanying road networks, but given the cost of the entire project, it is not feasible without the input of billions of dollars annually from Government.

This warning is encapsulated in the feasibility study which was commissioned by the coalition Administration at a cost of in excess of GY$150 million.

According to the Dutch consultants LievenseCSO, “The project is financially not viable without support from the Government.”

The findings have since

indicated that the revenues from toll make up for the operation expenditures but cannot support the debt service and that the toll rates can be increased but there is a limit to that since “a too large increase would make the toll unaffordable for many of the people who have to use the bridge.”

While the consultants did indicate that there seems to be strong appetite and sufficient liquidity in the financial markets of Guyana and the region to fund the project, since loans or bonds and preferred cumulative shares issues provide for the required funds, “this so-called Project Financing Structure requires a Government supported Special Purpose Company (SPC).

It was pointed out that a Private Public Partnership (PPP) structure like BOOT

(Build, Own, Operate and Transfer) whereby an investor signs a concession agreement with the Government to build and operate the bridge and in which the concessionaire has to arrange the financing “can only be successful if the Government provides (contribution) support…and certain guarantees.”

The required debt service, according to the consultants, weighs heavily on the financials of the project and is high in comparison with the operational expenditures.

Debt service includes interest and repayments of loans or bonds and generally the loans/bonds are medium-term and require yearly repayment and together with the interest, the yearly cash needed for debt service is considerable, “as a result of the high debt service, it was concluded that the project is not financially viable without a contribution from Government to support the cash shortfall.”

The consultants in their report acknowledged that the Government expressed the wish to maximise funding from the non-government sector in order to limit the Government’s contribution to the funding of the project as much as possible.

The consultants have since determined that this “means that the Project has to be structured in a Public Private Partnership (PPP), i.e. a Built, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) type of arrangement or a Project Finance structure whereby the commercial banks and (institutional) investors are involved, or an intermediate structures like DBFM (Design, Built, Finance and Maintain).”

According to the Consultants, for the new bridge a SPC is assumed, in that it holds the assets and operates and maintains the bridge.

In case of a project finance structure, the Government will be the sole owner/shareholder of the SPC, as envisioned by the consultants.

In such a scenario, the Public Infrastructure Ministry and the Finance Ministry will be the two governing bodies and the SPC will be a legal entity with limited liability under the laws of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

According to the consultants, the investment is budgeted at approximately US$150 million of which approximately 20 per cent will be denominated in Guyana

An artist’s impression of the proposed flyover

dollars.

“The national Guyanese portion has been maximised as much as possible to allow maximum application of the liquidity and appetite available in Guyana and to optimise the natural hedge (revenues in G$ versus operational expenditure and debt service in G$).”

The report has also taken into account the limits for increasing the toll rates are set by affordability, social responsibility, willingness to pay and what is politically acceptable as well as the fact there are no alternatives for crossing the Demerara River safely except for the ferryboats.

According to the consultants, it was concluded that none of the projected toll increases are not nearly enough to cover for the Debt Service as well, even with

the highest increase of toll rates of 200 per cent on top of the existing toll rate.

As a result, the Government will have to arrange a contribution (subvention) on an annual basis to cover the gap between the revenues and the cost.

The consultants noted that the main reasons for the need for significant Government contribution are the short period of the financing in combination with the high interest rates.

Meanwhile, as it relates to taxes and dividends, the contracted consultants have determined that it is assumed the project is exempted from paying Import and VAT taxes and that dividends are only paid out if the project makes a profit, that is, positive Net Profit After Tax (NPAT).

St Ignatius advances to 2nd leg of JOF Debating Competition

S

t Ignatius Secondary School of Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) advanced to the second leg of the JOF Haynes Debating Competition after surpassing their opponents Zeeburg Secondary of Region Three (West Demerara-Essequibo Islands). The debate kicked off at the Leonora Technical and Vocational Training Centre in Region Three.

The teams debated the topic, “The Convention on the Rights of a Child is solely responsible for the delinquent behaviours of many children in our society”. St Ignatius Secondary, the proposition team, defeated Zeeburg Secondary 280 to 268 points.

Lead speaker of St Ignatius, Avy Thony, who played an integral role in her team’s victory, said group members rehearsed intensely and deserved the win. The 16-year-old

enjoys participating in debates and this is her eighth competition.

“It helps me to express myself in an emotional way, in a way where people can understand the aspects of different topics. It is really about my career: I would like to become a lawyer and public speaking would help by debating,” Thony explained.

Sixteen-year-old Capreace Walks of Zeeburg Secondary, who snagged the prize for best speaker, also plans to become a lawyer. The teenager spent several days rehearsing for the debate and though her school was not victorious, she is delighted with her award.

Walks, who is no stranger to the debating stage, shared some essential advice for others who may wish to participate in debates. “You have to have a love for public speaking in my view. Because though some peo-

Capreace Walks, of Zeeburg Secondary, displaying her trophies for Best Speaker

ple may want to do it, when they go up on stage, they might feel intimidated by the crowd. So if you practice in front of your mirror constantly, you will obviously find a love for debating.”

According to the Department of Public Information, the debate was evenly matched until the rebuttal stage where both teams lost some momentum. June-Ann Gonsalves, Acting Chief Education Officer for secondary schools, said there was need for improvement in this area.

“The rebuttal is what changed the debate to some extent, so we realised that at this point in time that our children will need to be prepared in how to do the rebuttals in general.

How they should tackle it and how they should try using their own presentations in the rebuttals to counter what the opposition or the opposing team would have presented.”

Chief Judge of the debating competition, Shandrina Welcome-Lee applauded the students for their performances. However, she noted that they have to learn to think on their feet and think logically. “In some cases, students did not perform that well, but they were brave and we could see that they spent a lot of time preparing, they did research and they worked hard and their arguments were good,” she posited.

Welcome-Lee, who is also the Headteacher at the Brickdam Secondary School, said that more needed to be done in schools to assist students with public speaking.

She is encouraging English teachers to include debating exercises in their lesson plans, as they will boost the confidence of their students.

The JOF Debating Competition continues among secondary schools from across the country.

news

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thursDAY, september 21, 2017 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

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

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, September 21 – 17:00h-18:30h and Friday, September 22 – 05:20h-06:50h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Sunny conditions followed by heavy rain showers can be expected during the day, with sunny weather returning in the later afternoon. Clear skies can be expected in the evening, with temperatures expected to range between 25 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Ranging from East South-easterly and Easterly between 3.12 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 05:01h and 17:15h reaching a maximum height of 2.75 metres at each scheduled high tide.

Low Tide: 10:52h and 23:09h reaching minimum heights of 0.48 metre and 0.43 metre respectively.

WEDNESDAY, September 20, 2017

LOTTERY NUMBERS H

07

11

14

15

18

26

20 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

DAILY MILLIONS 13 17 21 25

26

LUCKY 3 3 4 7

6

Afternoon Draw

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7

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

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14 19 21

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

Govt, Exxon exploring use of natural gas for electricity E

xxonMobil and the Guyana Government on Wednesday wrapped up another round of high-level technical talks aimed at looking at the feasibility of using natural gas transported from its wells in the Atlantic to shore, in order to be used to supplement the nation’s electricity demands.

The first in what is being heralded as a series of continued discussions on commercial and power generation issues began on Tuesday last when officers of the Government of Guyana and technical members of ExxonMobil met in Georgetown.

That meeting follows one held a day earlier by Head of State David Granger and ExxonMobil’s President, Stephen Greenlee, on the sidelines of the 72nd Regular Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Greenlee in early 2017 had revealed that the company was excited by the results of a production test of the Liza2 well, which confirmed the presence of high-quality oil from the same high-porosity sandstone reservoirs that were discovered in the Liza-1 oil well completed years before in Guyana.

The technical working group which met on Tuesday and Wednesday featured technical persons from the Ministries of Public Infrastructure, Natural Resources, Finance, and Business; the Guyana Energy Agency; and the Guyana Power and Light Inc, along with ExxonMobil’s power generation specialists and analysts.

According to a public missive issued by the Public Infrastructure Ministry, the working group will focus on natural gas and the surrounding commercial and economic issues as it relates to offshore transportation for onshore power generation.

“Compared to Guyana’s current use of liquid fuels for electricity generation, natural gas is cleaner and its use for energy production could reduce the country’s fuel bill, and in turn, reduce the cost of electricity,” a release from the Ministry stated.

It was further pointed out that the working group will continue dialogue on local and international power generation experiences, including domestic infrastructural requirements and considerations for the potential of natural gas into gas-fired power generation.

The agenda was said to also include an overview of commercial power generation structures and approaches to power investment. It is expected that capacity building for local and key technical Government officials will be the major output of the twoday session.

“This is particularly important in light of the recent consultations held by the Ministry of Natural Resources on local content policy and its focus on maximising benefits and value re-

ExxonMobil President Stephen Greenlee

tention from Guyana’s petroleum resources through local content and capacity development,” according to the Public Infrastructure Ministry’s statement.

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson in that missive explained that “the first of such sessions, the Government of Guyana looks forward to furthering its understanding of the technical and key dynamics of proposed projects in an effort to diversify the energy mix in Guyana.”

Minister Patterson further emphasised that the sessions will not serve as an occasion for negotiations or review of contractual obligations between Guyana and ExxonMobil.

Rather, he said, “It is intended to continue dialogue with an intended wrap-up summary, including presentations updating key Ministries on the joint discussions having taken place over the twoday session.”

ExxonMobil first discovered major reservoirs in nearby Guyana in 2015. After their initial huge discovery

of the Liza oil field two years ago, ExxonMobil had later announced that they discovered more oil in the Payara reservoir off the coast of Guyana,

it at ExxonMobil headquarter.

During that meeting, members of the delegation were updated about ongoing and planned exploratory ac-

increasing the total discovery to about 500 million barrels.

In late April, a team comprising of Ministers Raphael Trotman, David Patterson, Dominic Gaskin, Winston Jordan and Joseph Harmon, engaged in extensive discussions with high-level ExxonMobil officials and executives over the two-day vis-

tivities following the significant discovery in the Liza 1 well, and engaged in interactive sessions that covered important topics such as an exploration update, development of the well for production, capacity building to ensure Guyanese involvement and ownership of development of the industry.

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guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, September 21, 2017

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

Annai Benab

Building bridges

D

etails of the $146 million Feasibility Study by the Dutch firm of LievenseCSO for the new Demerara River bridge (DRB) have finally been released by the Public Infrastructure Minister (MPI), after a series of leaks that titillated and exasperated the populace over the past month. The titillation was mostly over the news that a financier of the Government’s last political campaign serendipitously owned the land on the western bank of the Demerara River where the DRB will terminate. It is not known when the land was acquired.

The exasperation was precipitated by the revelation that unlike what the pre-feasibility study, done in 2013 by a local team assembled by the previous PPP administration, had recommended – a fixed, highlevel four-lane concrete structure – the proposed new structure would be a low-level, three-lane structure that would still have to be retracted to allow passage to ocean-going ships. Since one of the biggest bugbears of commuters across the present structure is that their lives are governed by its “openings and closings”, the Government gave very short shrift to this objection. The commuters are supposed to be happy they will now be able to park on the bridge rather than on the roadways.

The river view would presumably still their frustrations.

Moving on to more substantive matters, we have finally been offered a tentative cost of the retracting structure – US$150 million, excluding financing costs which would have to be guestimates at this time. If these are in the same ball park as presently exists, the latter would add another US$20 million in pre-financing costs alone. We are informed that the high-level bridge would have cost another 20 per cent or US$30 million, bringing that project to around the US$200 million figure that the pre-feasibility study had suggested, for a mere $5 million. It is our contention that in the larger picture, there should be wider consultations and discussions before the low-level retractable bridge becomes a fait accompli. After all, the fixed cost, massive governmental spending to cover the ambitious plans for clover leaf entrances and exits and some 11 km of access roads will remain the same.

The elephant in the room, of course, is the financing for the project. The feasibility study concludes that on its own, the bridge is not feasible, since at the very best, it will take a 250 per cent increase in the present tollrates to simply take care of operational expenses. The Government will have to inject US$39 million within the first five years to keep the venture financially afloat. It is to be noted that this just about the TOTAL cost of the Berbice River Bridge which was constructed on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) model, which precipitated a tsunami of criticism about the investors and financiers from the Government when they were in Opposition.

It is of more than passing interest that the feasibility study had also recommended the Government consider the BOOT model for the DRB, in line with what the World Bank and all other International Financial Institutions (IFI’s) have been promoting for the last few decades. The most obvious benefit of going this route, of course, is that the Government does not add to its debt portfolio which is growing alarmingly like Topsy and which will eat up an even more alarming percentage of governmental revenues.

But if it chooses the BOOT model, the Government will finally have to grapple with the realities of financing a mega-project that involves the Private Sector, and possibly understand the financial wizardry that former President Jagdeo had to perform to bring Berbice River Bridge to fruition. For instance, the private companies that agreed to purchase the common shares still have not received a single cent in dividends after 10 years, even as they are regularly castigated by the Government and its media backers for the sin of being patriotic.

It is our hope that the public look beyond the fancy computer-generated images of the proposed DRB and seriously examine the feasibility study.

The Annai Benab, located in the heart of the Central Rupununi community, is the largest Indigenous ‘meeting place’ in Guyana. This remarkable model of Indigenous craftsmanship and native architecture stands 70 feet tall and 90 feet wide, larger than the Umana Yana in Georgetown, which is only 55 feet high

Ramjattan consumed with Jagdeo’s success Dear Editor, I am very much unsurprised at the recent desperate tirades by Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, as he made another futile attempt to personally attack the good name and character of the General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) and Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo.

While it is cognisant that any response to Ramjattan would dignify his utterances, it would be remiss if I didn’t point out that such reckless, spurious and juvenile outbursts have become characteristic of him and demonstrative of his indisputable monumental ego as he battles for relevance within the coalition Administration. To say the least, it is unbecoming of someone entrusted with the reputable office of a Vice President of our country, bringing its reputation into dispute with such rancour.

Nationally embarrassed after being sidelined with his responsibilities as the nation’s Security Minister drastically gutted and having lost the Leadership of the Alliance For Change (AFC), he resorts to shamelessly exploiting every media-related opportunity to clutch at any semblance of relevance. With every such unbridled immature rant, it appears that he continues to fail in his frantic efforts to be accepted into the hierarchy of the Administration.

I wish to inform Ramjattan that if he were to spend less time being consumed with Jagdeo, who was the nation’s sixth Executive President, and focus on his tax-funded ministerial portfolio so that the continual

escalating crime wave can be effectively combatted, it would not only best serve his interest, but that of all Guyanese who are living in fear on a daily basis as the situation spirals out of control. If it’s any solace, he should take comfort that his responsibilities have been drastically slashed removing any excuse of him being overwhelmed.

That should be his priority rather than lashing out when he cannot provide meaningful answers when questioned. Having failed abysmally in the execution of his national security duties as evident by the Camp Street Prison riots in which 17 lives were unfortunately lost, the decimation by fire of the facility a year later, the escape of dangerous criminals; some of whom are still on the run and the daily assault on innocent Guyanese by criminal elements, Ramjattan’s capabilities to hold such office are woefully deficient and his presence in that position continues to be of a disservice to the nation.

I would like to remind him that Cheddi Jagan recognised the brilliance and leadership quality of Jagdeo at a very young age and drafted him into the Executive Committee of the Party.

When the PPP/C won the 1992 National and Regional Elections, Jagdeo was made the Junior Finance Minister and then promoted to Senior Finance Minister. Ramjattan was never trusted by Cheddi and Janet Jagan because of his lust for power. One should never forget during the PPP/C Government from 1992-1997, Ramjattan mounted banners on the Corentyne demanding

that he becomes the Home Affairs Minister or the Legal Affairs Minister.

Unlike Ramjattan, Jagdeo, who, through vision and prudent leadership, led the transformation of Guyana through unprecedented infrastructural and technological development.

During those prosperous times, the lives of Guyanese were positively transformed, many successive years of tangible economic growth were recorded and numerous visionary transformational projects to further improve the lives of our people were embarked upon.

Today, Ramjattan continues to reap the benefits of Jagdeo’s selfless dedication and vision. Ramjattan would therefore be best advised that instead of holding an obvious grudge over Jagdeo’s successes which were for the betterment of Guyana and the Guyanese people, he should try to reverse the failures he continues to engineer while executing the important responsibilities he has been entrusted. In his vile and bitter excursions to attack Jagdeo’s credibility, it appears that Ramjattan is exhibiting symptoms of convenient amnesia with regard to his own.

While space will constrain the extensive list, Ramjattan would recall that he was the Attorney for one of the bidders of the proposed beneficial Specialty Hospital while being a Member of Parliament and who opposed the project simply on the basis that the company he represented was not awarded the contract.

Not satisfied with such glaring conflict of interest, Ramjattan publicly boasted after the 2015 elections

that financiers of his party must be rewarded. Having received a posh new office, he boisterously defended the benefactor when millions in Government contracts were awarded even though a related lack of capacity to execute was strenuously pointed out.

With a track record of such unethical behaviour, Ramjattan is completely devoid of any semblance of credibility to so accuse anyone. Jagdeo’s contribution to the development of Guyana remains unquestionable and has been lauded by many international organisations evident from the “Champions of the Earth” Award and many more.

Having been in the “belly of the beast” as Ramjattan so eloquently boasted, he would know that it was a belly fortified with commitment to genuinely and positively transform the country and lives of its people.

That has been accomplished with all the evidence staring Ramjattan in his face. From his own utterances, it appears that Ramjattan could not and cannot appreciate and handle success, hence his continuous wallowing in failure.

Bharrat Jagdeo remains the most popular political leader in our country and the most internationally recognised. He has made the most positive contribution to this country and is indisputably, the most successful President of our country. He is the most respected Guyanese politician in and out of our country.

His achievements are there for everyone to see.

Zamal Hussain Vryheid, West Canje, Berbice

guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, September 21, 2017

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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

PPP/C Member of Parliament's response to KN (Part 2)

Dear Editor, The political landscape in Guyana is a vicious one, and it is very easy to peddle lies and misinformation and slander ones character for political gains.

The A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/ AFC) has a strategy to retain power in 2020. It is ruthless, and relies on the unscrupulous tactics the People’s National Congress had been using effectively for years against the People’s Progressive Party (PPP). Tactics that have resonated well with their political base. The APNU/AFC re-election campaign strategy is now known. The strategy has been leaked by the Basil Williams emails and focused on three main areas: 1. They will “keep propagandising on the issue of having inherited an empty Treasury” from the PPP in 2015.

2. They will “continue to restate that the economy was surviving on drug money”, and 3. They will “continue to prod favourable media houses and social me-

dia operatives so that they further fuel the perception that the PPP is racist.”

It is now apparent from the content of (a KN editorial) that someone is using that newspaper to help the governing APNU/AFC achieve this objective.

With all the scandals; lack of performance and broken promises, the APNU/AFC is getting more desperate now. They can no longer play the “anti-corruption” card because they are now corrupt. They can no longer play the “economic development” card because the economy is struggling and there are no investors lining up to come to Guyana. Neither can they play the “increase social welfare” card because with the lack of jobs, increased taxes and 14 per cent VAT on water and electricity, more poverty and criminals are being created. All the good campaign rhetoric has been destroyed in their first two years in Government.

So now, as people start drifting from them, they pull out the only option left available, the race card. And they will use whatever means necessary, with the aid of “favourable media houses”, Commission of Inquires, Eric Phillips

and others to get that message out, even though they have no credibility on improving race relations. After all, this is the same Government who fired every Permanent Secretary (PS) of Indian descent after taking office, and only sent home one PS that was Afro-Guyanese. And this had nothing to do with the politics, qualifications or competence of those fired, for they were all highly trained and competent civil servants. But rather, their ethnicity.

While there is no doubt that the bulk of the PPP supporters comes from Indo-Guyanese, I have heard the Party General Secretary mentioned repeatedly at the PPP Congress and at meetings through Guyana, that the PPP is a multi-racial party and has welcomed Afro-Guyanese to be part of this culture.

As I have said before, the Granger Administration’s greatest fear is having to compete against a highly motivated PPP/C in 2020, with Bharrat Jagdeo as its Presidential Candidate.

So, for this KN editorial to suggest that the PPP “is no longer a vibrant

political party and has no centralised message”, tells me that the writer has not been reading the news, the letter columns, nor attending the weekly press conferences at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition. For this “editor” is either deliberately propagating misinformation, or maliciously trying to plant the seed of doubt in the minds of our supporters by insinuating that there is confusion and rivalry within the Party structure. The editorial writer wrote, “Although they will not speak publicly about it, many of its supporters have never really trusted their present leader or have truly respected his intellect, but would not speak publicly about it. They wanted an infusion of transformative and visionary leadership but this will not happen with its current leader at the helm.”

I am stunned that this piece of garbage was allowed to be published and defame the column that is associated with my friend, Editor-in-Chief, Adam Harris. This is not his style, he did not write this. But I will say this emphatically: There is no division within the rank and file of the People’s

Progressive Party. Those rice farmers who were fooled by the $9000 a bag for paddy, and the sugar workers conned into believing they would get a 25 per cent increase, have already returned home. The members of the People’s Progressive Party stand firmly and united behind our Leader and General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo. There is no other politician in Guyana today that is more loved, admired, respected and knowledgeable like Jagdeo, and there is no other that is more feared too, just ask the leaders of the governing APNU and AFC. Unlike the Granger Administration that governs by trial and error, the PPP has an abundance of visionary leaders with the proven track record to run this Government from day one.

Those that were once anxious to see the backs of the PPP are anxiously awaiting their return to Government.

The good news is 2020 is just around the corner.

Harry Gill PPP/C Member of Parliament

Nuclear logic and logistics Dear Editor, If Nuclear Deterrence is a cardinal principle, why should it be a cardinal principle only for a few? Why should North Korea denuclearise when others are not doing so? When the others are testing and enhancing their nuclear capacity?

When the US has militarised the Northern Pacific, with its self-declared Pivot to China?

With its nuclear-armed submarines and 400 bases around this region? Why should the UK, the US, France, Russia, India, Pakistan, China, Israel own 15,000 nuclear warheads, plus Inter Continental Ballistic Missiles and submarine nuclear payloads, and North Korea not have one, five, 10?

What nation has North Korea invaded? Has it invaded Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, North East Asia? Does it own a global military arms complex which profits from continual genocide? Does it sell weapons of mass destruction to vulnerable regions of the planet?

Has it dropped Daisy Cutters (15,000 pounds) and Mother of all Bombs (18,000 pounds) on hapless nations? Has it committed reckless, mad, irresponsible, psychotic actions in the Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Libya, Syria, Yemen, Somalia?

Has North Korea ever tried to destabilise Russia, China, India, the United States, Western Europe? Tried to intervene in their electoral processes? Assassinated their national sovereign leaders? Plotted and executed civil wars? Armed terrorists?

Pulled off coups far and wide?

Sent its warships into the

North Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, the Arabian Peninsula? Does it possess thousands of military bases throughout the planet? Has it hatched global surveillance states, financial empires, global corporate kingdoms? Has it built an economic system intent on destroying the planet? Is it a fan of consumerism, materialism, over-production and over-consumption? Does North Korea spend billions of dollars in gospel empires, war, genocide on CNN, BBC, FOX, MSNBC and Voice of America?

Has North Korea killed a few million Indigenous people in North, Central and South America? Did it enact slavery laws? Did it cause two World Wars in the 20th Century?

Did it slaughter six to eight million Jews? Did it carpet bomb London or Dresden? Did it bomb the soul of Chechnya to smithereens? Did it plot to assassinate Che Guevara or Patrice Lumumba? Does it collude with Wall Street, London, to financialise assets and planetary commons? Did it bring the Middle East, Libya, Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq, Yemen, North Africa to powdery walls of death and destruction?

Orphaned millions of children, widowed millions of women?

As the United States pivots further and further into the North Pacific, threatening China, Russia, North Korea, surrounding these nations with bases, nukes, destroyers; as Governments come under increasing threats from their populations, in the face of income shortfalls; as the global economy declines, too many goods chasing too few markets; as conventional arm sales escalate globally; North Korea

sees war as a logical outcome. The United States and Western Europe would sooner smash up the global economy, substitute war for trade, than forebear competition from the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) nations.

In the face of such global threats of war, North Korea has decided to build the ultimate deterrent. No magic here, just common logic. It is the US which napalmed and carpet-bombed North Korea in the early 1950’s, not the reverse. The premise of ‘the international community’ is that it should not possess its own deterrent, nuclear missiles.

Why not? If nuclear weapons are a deterrent, then North Korea should have them more than any other: it has historically been invaded by both Eastern and Western foes; it

has been globally demonised; it is philosophically anti-imperialistic; it is non-aligned; it aspires to economic self-determinism (juche).

Must only large wealthy imperialist nations own nuclear weapons? Must they own all for themselves? And small, poor nations shalt have nought? Must the principle of Nuclear Deterrent apply only to large nations? How many Moslems, Christians, Hindus, Africans, Sikhs, Apaches, Chinese, Buddhists and Australian ‘Aborigines’ have the North Koreans killed? Can North Korea rely on the UN for fairness, which beats its brows in despair, or launches after-the-fact sermons and platitudes, or practices learnt silence in the face of Western atrocities?

Serfs of imperialism, in-

cluding ‘Third World’ governments and citizens everywhere, the mainstream media in the Caribbean, blithely accept the current bullying of North Korea. Who is left to stand up for the poor, hapless and small nations of the planet? If China, Russia, the UN, India, allow the US to bomb North Korea, how could small fiefs feel safe amongst the Medieval

duchies and kingdoms? And if President Trump’s logic is that the US will “have no choice but to totally destroy” North Korea if attacked (UN Speech, September 19, 2017) why should this logic not be used by any nation which the US itself attacks?

Regards, Wayne Kublalsingh

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thursday, September 21, 2017

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H

urricanes can be pretty scary events – for grown-ups and kids alike. From a developmental standpoint, we know that children learn how to respond to situations based on the behaviours and attitudes of those around them. Here are some tips to help them – and you – be ready this hurricane season.

Talk about hurricanes Children might be confused about what a hurricane is, so use simple age-appropriate descriptions of what they might expect if one is coming your way. For a younger child, you might say, "A hurricane is a tropical storm with very strong winds and lots of rain, lightning and thunder."

It's also important to stress to kids that grown-ups will do their best to keep them safe.

Foundation

items, nonelectronic games or toys in case of power outages.

Try to keep as normal a routine as possible. Familiar routines can help children feel calm and safe.

Encourage children to talk about their feelings or thoughts about what’s happening. Though some children might not prefer to talk right away — and that can be OK, too. Spend time together and let them know that you’re there when they’re ready.

During the storm Have your child select a few comfort

enced a traumatic event. If you see any of these signs, make sure you talk to your doctor and know that there are licensed and trained counsellors that can help.

How families can help All too often, the news is filled with upsetting reports of the devastating effects of tornadoes, hurricanes, typhoons, floods, tsunamis, and other forces of nature.

In their aftermath, many people want to know how to aid those who've been displaced or injured. Here are some ways that families can help.

Make a donation When there's a disaster, many worthy local, national, and international organisations will be looking for donations. Before giving, do some homework to be sure the organization is legitimate and learn how they will use your donation.

Here are some charitable organisations that help people affected by crises and natural disasters: * Doctors Without Borders * Save the Children * International Rescue Committee * Mercy Corps * Partners in Health It's OK if your family doesn't have a lot to give. Every donation, regardless of size, helps to rebuild when communities are hit by natural disasters.

Try to remain calm yourself Children are sponges and can easily sense the emotions of those around them. When a parent seems overly upset or worried, this may unintentionally amplify a child’s own fears or worries.

Let your children be involved in pre-storm preparations Busy bodies can help minds be less busy. Participation in age-appropriate helping roles can also increase a child’s sense of control over the situation. * Have a family Disaster Emergency Kit. Children can help collect canned goods and get flash lights ready. * Have your children help bring in outdoor items. * Discuss your family’s disaster plan together. Will you need to evacuate – and what would that look like? Which grownups will do what? This will help your children have an idea of what to expect.

guyanatimesgy.com

After the storm * Monitor media exposure. There can be "too much coverage" leading up to and especially after a hurricane has hit. These images might be too much for young eyes and sensitive hearts. * Let children help with clean-up. * Pay attention to signs of stress, including nightmares, regressive behaviour/acting younger than their age and extra clinginess. These are common symptoms for children who’ve experi-

Lend a hand While monetary donations are always appreciated, they're not the only way that families can get involved. Here are other ways that you and your children can help out: Donate clothes, food, or other items. Check with your local Red Cross chapter, community centre (like the YMCA), or place of worship to find out whether you can drop off donations or if there's another way your family can con-

tribute. You might suggest donating your time to help sort through donations and/or delivering goods to families affected by the disaster.

Organise a fundraiser. Perhaps you could help your place of worship or local school organise a fundraiser to collect money or supplies for disaster victims. For a donation drive, ask the organisation you'd like to donate to whether it needs the items you plan to send. Sometimes, charities get too many donations and have to spend money storing or handling the excess items.

Organise a community event. Talk to your place of worship, child's school, or community centre about organising a walk, run, bake

sale, or other activity to raise money.

If your family can't help out right now, consider contributing in the coming weeks or months. With the degree of damage in disaster-struck areas, the need for donations and funds will be ongoing and your family's help will be appreciated just as much in the future.

Why it matters Volunteering your time, money, or efforts not only helps the community, but also sets a good example for your children. And helping others, especially as a family, is one of the most rewarding experiences parents and children can share. (Kidshealth)

Disaster relief: What your family can do to help

By Molly Hewitt

W

hen your children see people in obvious need of help, they may ask, "Is there anything I can do?"

The answer is, yes. When I was a child, I remember the news being flooded with pictures of starving African children, and my brothers and I would make an annual donation of 10 dollars to CARE, an organisation that fights global poverty. Last Christmas my father gave his four grandkids money they could use to each buy a toy to donate to Toys for Tots. It helped them think about how other kids live, and they took great care in choosing their gifts.

Earthquakes, tsunamis, tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, volcanoes, and war are big media stories and children see the victims and refugees, often children, on the nightly news or in the morning paper. Sometimes the disaster is in your state, sometimes halfway around the world, but help is always needed.

Your family's first reaction to the news stories may be to gather up clothes and extra canned goods, but first check with the relevant agencies before starting your drive. Often there are too many supplies and not enough money to get them there. The major relief agencies are usually the first to jump to action, and they will publicise what is needed.

Once you know what is

needed, what can children do?

Clothes Find out what the weather is like for the people you are trying to help. If it's winter, last summer's outgrown shorts are not going to be as helpful as a sweater you don't wear anymore. Start a clothing drive at your school, church, or scout troop. And have a plan to get the goods to the drop-off site or picked up on time for delivery.

Food Your local supermarket may have a canned goods drive going on; check with them. If not, start your own.

As with clothing, be sure to let people know what can be used and what would just be added weight.

Money Often, money is what is most needed. A charity drive, bake sale, or car wash can be a good way to raise money. Make sure a parent or another adult is involved, so you can figure out the best way to handle the money.

Most agencies need checks made out to them. A big jar to collect coins works great, as long as you take it to the bank to be counted (most have automatic counting machines which save hours of stacking and rolling coins), and then deposit the money into the adult's account so she can write the cheque. (familyeducation.com)

news

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thursDay, September 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Granger tells world’s elite of Venezuela’s growing militaristic threats

...says further delays to a border resolution threaten regional peace

G

uyana continues to be imperilled by the ever militaristic threats from Venezuela which has laid claim to more than two thirds of Guyana’s territories, a situation that threatens the very existence of peace in the Caribbean region once protracted.

This was the clarion call of Head of State David Granger, who in his third appearance at the United Nation’s General Assembly in New York, appealed to world leaders dedicating a third of his presentation to the escalating conflict over Venezuela’s claim to the Essequibo.

Addressing the more than 180 world leaders in attendance, President Granger reminded the Assembly of his warnings in September last, and reminded that Venezuela’s claim to Guyana’s territory, “has not diminished or been diverted...Guyana remains imperilled.”

The Guyanese Head of State in bringing the border conflict to the world stage, acknowledged that the disturbing developments within Venezuela have attract-

ed the world’s attention and roused the concerns of many over the privations of its people.

He cautioned world leaders however, that while the Caribbean people wish for the Caribbean to be a zone of peace, “the Venezuelan claim to Guyana’s territorial integrity, however, would be a threat to that zone.”

Reminding that Venezuela is more than four times the size of Guyana, with a claim of more than two-thirds of Guyana’s territory, including its maritime space, the President said “we depend on our territorial and maritime resources for development and for the release of our people from poverty.”

According to Granger, “Guyana warns the world, through this Assembly, that peace will be at stake in our Region if justice does not become ascendant, not only within Venezuela, but also in respect to its border controversy with Guyana.”

Four UN Secretary Generals have been apprised of Venezuela’s claims, and Granger said the choice has become one between just and peaceful settlement

in accordance with international law, and a Venezuelan posture of attrition that is increasingly more blustering and militaristic.

“In this matter, protraction is the enemy of resolution and the ally of sustained conflict,” he cautioned.

The Guyanese Head of State did acknowledge that “fortunately, as they indicated publicly, former Secretary General Ban Kimoon and current Secretary General António Guterres have decided that, under the 1966 Geneva Agreement, if by the end of the year 2017 significant progress has not been made toward arriving at a full agreement for the settlement of the controversy, the International Court of Justice will be the next means of peaceful settlement, unless Guyana and Venezuela jointly request otherwise.”

Guyana, he said, has continued working assiduously with the Secretary General’s personal representative. “Guyana looks to the international community to ensure that Venezuela is not allowed to thwart the processes of judicial settle-

President David Granger addressing the 72nd Regular Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York

ment which is the clear and agreed path to peace and justice.”

Foreign policy

The President did use his time at the UN Dias to also give Guyana’s position on international affairs.

In what can be perceived as a direct appeal to the Donald Trump Administration, the Guyanese President reiterated Guyana’s longstand-

ing position that all embargoes against its Caribbean sister country Cuba, be lifted by the United States of America.

“We demand the withdrawal of the injurious economic embargo against the Caribbean island of Cuba...

The embargo frustrates that State’s right to development,” according to Granger.

Speaking to another of Guyana’s long standing foreign policy positions,

President Granger also reiterated the country’s demand for a two State solution to the decades’ old Israeli/ Palestinian conflict.

“We affirm the right of the Palestinian people to a homeland and to a dignified existence,” President Granger said as he reminded world leaders that, “striving for peace must aim at resolving long-standing inter-state conflicts and in this regard, Guyana supports the call for the reform of the Security Council to give even greater voice to developing countries.

He told world leaders, striving for peace has been the principal purpose and preoccupation of this organisation throughout its existence and in fact “must be humanity’s ceaseless quest.”

Acclaiming the United Nations as the paramount global instrument of peace, Head of State Granger emphasised on the world leaders present that “nothing is more important in this General Debate than that all delegates should respect the relevant theme – Focusing on people: Striving for peace and a decent life for all on a sustainable planet.”

8 NEWS

thursday, September 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

IN THE COURTS Man jailed for vandalising Minister’s house

A

seemingly mentally disturbed man who admitted to unlawfully and maliciously damaging Minister of State, Joseph Harmon’s property was sentenced to six months in jail by Magistrate Fabayo Azore when he appeared before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Wednesday morning.

Samuel Greene, 30, of

Guyhoc Park, Georgetown, was reportedly asked to keep watch over the property on September 15, 2017, when he was seen by persons with a metal bar bashing in the windows of the house.

Police authorities were notified, leading to the defendant’s arrest.

The unrepresented man agreed with the particulars

of the charge and facts presented by Police Prosecutor Simone Payne.

Greene seemed to be in a dazed state when the Magistrate asked if he was “okay” and was heard replying “sometimes I does run off”.

Nonetheless, the defendant indicated that he accepted his actions and understood the penalty attached to the offence at

hand. Upon considering mitigating factors such as the defendant’s ready confession and the fact that he did not waste the court’s time, while also bearing in mind the extensive damage caused to the Virtual Complainant’s property, Magistrate Azore handed down a penalty of six months behind bars.

Damages are approximated at $995,000.

Trinidadian remanded on narcotics trafficking charge

A

Trinidad-based Guyanese may not be able to return to the twin island republic in the foreseeable future as planned as he found himself arraigned before the court of Magistrate Fabayo Azore on Wednesday morning, following an allegation of trafficking in narcotics.

When he appeared before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, Terry Miles pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on September 18, 2017, he was in possession of 270 grams of cannabis for trafficking purposes.

Police Prosecutor Simone Payne objected to bail on the grounds of the

seriousness and prevalence of the offence, coupled with the penalty at-

tached for breach of the prohibition act.

The 39-year-old unrepresented man was cut short when he attempted to explain his version of events.

However, the court understands that he recently returned to Guyana and was temporarily residing at Rosignol, West Bank Berbice during his time in the country.

Miles indicated that he was currently unemployed and was expecting to return to Trinidad during the next month.

Bail was refused and the case adjourned to October 4, 2017. Miles remains on remand until then.

Central Electronics employees charged for fraud – accused of embezzling $450,000

Y

vonnen Rocharran, 22, of Kaneville, East Bank Demerara and Davieka Ramkarran, 20, of Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara were hauled before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Wednesday and slapped (both separately and jointly) with multiple counts of embezzlement.

Magistrate Fabayo Azore presided over the matter and read the string of charges to the defendants, both of whom maintained their innocence.

The first joint charge stated that between December 13, 2016 and June 8, 2017, both of the defendants fraudulently embezzled $450,000 taken into possession by them or on account of Central Electronics (their employer).

Rocharran was further slapped with two separate charges alleging that she embezzled some $106,000 and $191,000 in cash on May 26, 2017 and June 7, 2017, respectively.

The above charges were laid indictably.

Eight subsequent joint charges stated that the accused persons embezzled a total of $130,000 on dates given to fall between November 2016 and June 2017.

Bail was set in separate sums with respect to each charge; with Rocharran being placed on $230,000 and Ramkarran, $150,000, in total. The pair will return to court on September 26, 2017 for summary matters while the charges laid indictably will continue on October 11, 2017.

Nature…

F

…in a foul mood

rom the earliest accounts that have come down to us, man has tried to explain the forces – like earthquakes and hurricanes – that suddenly wreak havoc with the lives they’ve painfully and tediously tried to eke out for themselves. The Greeks believed it was the work of the Gods taking vengeance for one or another misdeed we may have committed.

But in the millennia since, we’ve attempted to explain those phenomena using the scientific method – which isn’t so difficult to comprehend. We observe a phenomenon; we try to come up with an explanation (a “hypothesis”); we test that hypothesis via experiments and if the results are as our hypothesis predicted, we figure there’s some merit to our explanation. And can begin to act on them.

The problem is when it comes to the changing weather patterns, we have no way of actually conducting controlled experiments. After all, we know for instance in general, warm air rising from the warm ocean waters, with the spin of the earth will tend to rotate. A continued supply of warm water and air will feed the swirling, rotating winds, which will also suck up air and move from being tropical storms to full blown hurricanes.

But are we getting more hot water and air because of increased carbon dioxide and methane we’ve emitted into the atmosphere since the industrial revolution starting in the mid-18th century? Well we do know that increased carbon dioxide levels do increase the capacity of air to retain heat. But can we conclusively PROVE this experimentally? Not with the earth! And this is where the “Climate Change deniers” come in.

They insist the earth always had alternating periods of warming and cooling without the “help” of man. Think of all the “Ice Ages” we know occurred – the latest one where the Bering Straits between Asia and American froze over and our Indigenous Peoples decided to amble over! So, the deniers say, to heck with asking countries like the US to cut back on producing carbon dioxide through burning fossil fuels. It’s not about the fossil fuels – but that might mean a drop in their standard of living.

So what do we do as we observe these massive hurricanes that are hitting our Caribbean islands like never before. Do we dismiss them because “there’s nothing we can do” – pretty much like the Greek saying it’s the work of the Gods? Until the advent of Trump at the helm of the US, there was a growing consensus that the least we can do is reduce carbon dioxide emission. Can’t hurt, can it?

But Trump insists on provoking the Gods!!

…and steak

When your Eyewitness read about it in the papers, the first thought that flashed into his head was: “Only in Guyana!” He’s talking about the latest cause of unrest in our prisons: the prisoners who’s been housed in Lusignan after their torching of the Camp Street jail – demanding steak for breakfast!! Can you believe this?

Being cramped for space, your Eyewitness can understand. He’s sympathetic about not getting meals on time. But demanding steak? Naaah!! Jeez, Even your Eyewitness can’t pull off a stunt like that on his Missus.

And he brings home the bacon!! What the heck’s going on? And then, like an epiphany, it all became clear.

Lusignan!!

Remember that cow those prisoners were allowed to slaughter and BBQ when the poor creature wandered into the yard they were kept in for a while? Obviously, they enjoyed that feast so much, they’ve become addicted to the taste of steak!

OK, Ramjattan, you fretted about the prisoners’ conditions.

Let them eat steak!!

…and disaster preparedness

Clearly, the Town Clerk’s been looking at the Big Screen TV he’s installed in his expansive office. He wants a disaster preparedness plan prepared in case one hits our not-so-fair City.

Ooops! Too late! He and his Gang of Four were already selected to run City Hall!!

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

News

9

thursDAY, september 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Pensioner killed in Herstelling accident – minibus driver fails breathalyser test, to appear in court today

By Shemuel Fanfair

D

espite intensified efforts

by Police to curb drunk driving on the nation’s roadways, another person was killed as a result of the scourge.

Sixty-six-year-old pedal cyclist, Basil Rambarran of Farm Squatting Area, East Bank Demerara (EBD) was on Tuesday afternoon killed at Herstelling, EBD after he was struck down by minibus BLL 4739 driven by a 44-year-old Soesdyke, Back Road resident.

The driver was subsequent-

ly arrested after he failed a breathalyser test where he was found to be over the legal limit of alcohol consumption. Police stated that the minibus driver was heading towards Timerhi when the cyclist reportedly crossed the road in the path of the oncoming minibus, which resulted in a collision. As a result, the elderly man fell onto the roadway and sustained severe injuries to his body. The father of two was employed with the founder of WRHM Channel 7, Senior Counsel Rex McKay as a caretaker and handyman Rambarran’s stepson, Edmond Singh is grieving the loss of the caretaker

The body of Basil Rambarran at the Lyken Funeral Home on Tuesday

for over 30 years.

Guyana Times was told that when the accident occurred at 16:45h Tuesday, Rambarran was heading home from work.

Relatives and friends recalled that the 66-year-old man was a quiet and friendly person who always checked in on his neighbours.

“Every morning I will see he

At Meten-Meer-Zorg

Man killed in hit-and-run accident …driver arrested

T

he lifeless body of 61-year-old Mohamed Yussuff Ashraff of Lot 155 Meten-Meer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara (WCD) was on Wednesday morning discovered lying in a ditch in front of a popular pharmacy in the village.

Based on information received, the discovery was made at around 06:30h and the Police were summoned to the area.

Upon inspecting the deceased, the body sustained injuries consistent with that of a vehicular accident.

However, Police ranks later collected CCTV footage from a nearby building and were able to track down the vehicle that was involved in the accident.

Based on information, the Police have since arrested a 26-year-old resident of Seafield, Leonora, WCD, who told inves-

tigators that at about 04:00h this morning, he was proceeding along the Meten-Meer-Zorg Public Road when he partially veered off the roadway, hitting an object in the process.

He admitted that he failed to stop but was not aware that it was a man he had struck down.

The driver remains in custody and is assisting with the investigation. No trace of alcohol was found in his blood after a breathalyser test was administered.

Ashraff’s body was taken to the Ezekiel Funeral Home at Best Village, where it awaits a post-mortem examination. The driver remains in custody and is assisting with the investigation. As recent as Sunday, 19-year-old Trishan Sahai, also called “Star” of Number 57

Village, Corentyne, was killed in a hit-and-run accident.

It was reported that the labourer and his 28-year-old friend, Mooneshwar Jairam, also called “Bodo”, were crossing the roadway when they were stuck by an unknown vehicle.

The now dead teenager was flung several feet from the point of impact while his friend landed on top of a parked motor car, breaking the windshield and rear view mirror in the process.

Following the accident, the speeding car fled the scene.

Both men were taken to the Skeldon Hospital where Sahai was pronounced dead, while Jairam was transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital where his condition remains serious.

and he will tell me ‘morning’,” his neighbour ‘Sunita’ told this publication. Another neighbour described Rambarran as having been a “good person”.

His step-son, Edmond Singh is trying to come to grips with the loss. He said that he was especially close to the deceased as he would normally take care of him.

When this newspaper arrived at the dead man’s residence on Wednesday afternoon, Singh and other relatives were preparing the yard for the wake. “Me step-father was good to [me], never show us a bad face. He comes and gaff and laugh with everybody on the road and he never disrespected anybody; he don’t drink. He [goes] on he bicycle and go he way straight and come he way straight,” the grieving man told Guyana Times.

The point of impact on the Herstelling, EBD Public Road where the pedal cyclist was struck

Singh further related that his step-father had assisted in the upbringing of his [Rambarran’s] grandchildren. The dead man’s immediate family members were present at a post-mortem examination (PME) conducted on Wednesday which revealed that the caretaker died from

“multiple injuries”.

The driver of the minibus is expected to make his first court appearance at the Providence Magistrate’s Court sometime today. Rambarran leaves to mourn his common-law wife, Agnes Singh, his two daughters, numerous grandchildren, other relatives and friends.

10

guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, September 21, 2017

News

New Demerara bridge is sugar’s death knell ...as analyst exposes millions in hidden costs to be borne by taxpayers

E

conomic Advisor to the Opposition Leader, Dr Peter Ramsaroop believes the new Demerara River crossing is nothing more than the President looking to leave in place a legacy – in the face of his acceptance of his fate as a one-term Head of State – and it will be the final nail in the coffin of the sugar industry of Guyana.

This was posited this past week during an interview with Guyana Times by Ramsaroop, who contends that Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson – in his defence of what will be undoubtedly Guyana’s single largest project – “has either all but exposed this fallacy or is himself clueless as to what is really going on around him”.

The financial analyst told this publication this could be gleaned when taking even a cursory look at the feasibility report for the construction of a new Demerara River crossing which was done by the coalition Government – a report that cost in excess

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson

of $150 million.

According to Ramsaroop, the report outlines three possible toll increases from year one of operation, ranging between 100 per cent and 300 per cent.

“This increase alone on an already struggling population is nothing short of unconscionable,” he said.

Hidden costs

Ramsaroop has since surmised, however, “the problems do not end with mere toll increases, since, in all of the financial models

that have been presented to this administration by their consultants, it repeatedly dismisses them as not viable given the US$170 million price tag for the bridge alone...Each of the models proposed require an untold amount of Government support.”

The financial analyst said, “These people are smart in a way, because the report speaks to a construction cost of US$150 million with additional financing such as interest during construction and in all of the designs there are mass expanses of road networks that are not optional.”

He is of the firm belief that the true costs of this project have not even been laid out in the report, since there is no reference to the actual cost of the accompanying elevated road network and ancillary structures.

Only recently, the Administration inked a contract for the upgrades of the East Coast and West Coast Demerara Public Roads.

Ramsaroop reminded that each of those projects was for in excess of US$40 million.

“This means that already the bridge project exceeds either the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan Airport or the Skeldon Sugar Factory...together those projects cost US$280 million.”

He surmised, “Already by just including the cost of the road, we can see that this new bridge is going to cost almost the same as Guyana’s two largest projects combined....”

According to Ramsaroop, those speaking in defence of the project are not saying that none of the financial models are viable and that the tolls increased by 300 per cent for vehicular traffic and 700 per cent for river traffic…..the tolls are not

even enough to cover the operations of the bridge.”

The financial analyst noted that in the report, in each of the models chosen by the consultants, they have stressed the need for Government input either in the form of guarantees on debt payments, equity investments, zero per cent interest loans and regular subsidies as a means of support.

He pointed to the report where in one proposal Government was asked for as much as US$140 million in subsidy in the first decade of the bridge’s operation.

According to Ramsaroop, “this act has to be some sort of political heresy since tax-

Economic Advisor Peter Ramsaroop

payers are being asked to essentially foot the bill for a project that can’t even pay for itself...Not only will it become a burden on the down-

trodden man, even those dependent on a minibus for their daily commute, but with the State having to pour billions into the construction, maintenance, debt servicing and all that comes with it, there is little left for other sectors.”

One such sector for which the new Demerara River crossing will spell certain death is the sugar industry.

Ramsaroop drew reference to the fact Cabinet met on Tuesday last while President David Granger was out of the country at the United Nations General Assembly.

Turn to page 12

Berbice teenager missing

– alleged child molester in custody

By Andrew Carmichael

T

wo persons are now in custody after a missing child’s report was filed at the Sisters Village Police Station on the East Bank of Berbice.

Among the suspects is a man who villagers say has a past of sexually molesting young boys.

The missing teenager has been identified as Leonard Archibald. Reports are the 13-year-old, who attends Overwinning Secondary School, was last seen on Sunday night.

Reports are that the missing boy was last seen riding a bicycle along the main access road on the East Bank of Berbice, wearing only a pair of trousers.

He had left home to accompany his three sisters from a birthday party in the neighbouring village.

Orin Archibald, the now missing teen’s brother, told <<<Guyana Times>>> that

Missing: Leonard Archibald

his brother accompanied their three sisters to a birthday party one village away and was waiting to accompany them back home. Persons had also seen him in the vicinity of the party until shortly after dark.

The teen’s mother, Abigail Archibald, explains that her son left their Lot 51 Brothers Village home to collect the girls and they claimed that he did pick them up from the party. “He pick them up after the party then take off with his bicycle and leff dem on the road.

He tell dem that he riding up, so when they meet home they ask me fo he… he brother dem went an look fo he but dem ent find he,” she explained.

A missing persons report was then made at the Sisters Police Station.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Deputy Superintendent of Police Gary Mc Allister told the media that several persons have been questioned but two have been detained.

A brother of the missing boy, Orin, related that the main suspect whose only name was given as Edwards, is known in the village as a child molester.

Villagers say there are reports that he would tie up young boys and molest them.

They claim that recently he broke a boys’ jaw.

However, despite these allegations, the villagers say none of the alleged incidents have been reported to the Police.

The family is calling for the teen’s safe return.

thursday, September 21, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

11

News

GAPSO wants a more “regularised” private security sector – as Minister Scott defends night shift comments

By Vahnu Manikchand

T

he Guyana Association of Private Security Organisations (GAPSO) has launched the inaugural National Security Officers Appreciation Day, where its President, Christopher Thompson, called for a more regularised private security sector.

The Appreciation Day was held at the Herdmanston Lodge in Georgetown on Wednesday, and underscored the importance of recognising the work, sacrifices and contributions of security personnel. Speaking at the launch, Thompson pushed for the labels of “guards” and “watchmen” to be gotten rid of.

He noted that being referred to as ‘security officers’ will go a long way in boosting the morale and upward mobility of those working in the private security sector.

On that note, he went on to underscore the need for the private security sector to be regularised.

Thompson posited that there are many untold stories, both good and bad, within the private security sector and the Association is committed to reducing the “bad” within the industry.

He went on to say that this Appreciation Day event will see over 10,000 security officers being recognised.

“Given their significant numbers, the work they do and the fact that they are an inevitability that will not dwindle away and die but from all indication, will increase and be a permanent feature in our industrialised landscape, then we should find some way of showing them their worth and importance to the society and most importantly to the companies which employ them,” Thompson stated.

Echoing similar sentiments, veteran Trade Unionist Lincoln Lewis, in his remarks, underscored the need for stakeholders to collaborate and consult on issues affecting the private security sector.

Labour Minister Keith Scott (second left) and GAPSO President Christopher Thompson (third left) along with other officials from the private security sector at Wednesday’s launch

are involved in the conceptualising of programmes, the development of programmes that impact their well-beings and we ought to all respect that,” Lewis posited.

Minister Scott, and the coalition Government by extension, had come under heavy criticism over the statement. However, Government had subsequently distanced itself from the issue, with Minister of State Joseph Harmon saying there is no such policy before Cabinet.

A section of the gathering at the launch of National Security Officers Appreciation Day at Herdmanston Lodge

“It is GAPSO’s hope that regulated and standardised training with the input of the Public Security Sector will lead to better performance output from these officers; improved performance output to match the country’s development; and eventually, arriving at a stage where private security officers will have to be registered and licensed in different or varying grades before they are permitted to be employed in the private security industry. Of course, licences can be renewed, upgraded and downgraded based on medical checks, training courses, age and several other factors. This is a road we wish our officers to travel to improve themselves and the industry as a whole, and amply justify that they are truly security officers; not guards or watchmen,” the GAPSO President stated.

“This Association cannot only be active at the time of saying ‘thank you’ but needs to be active at the time of conceptualising and developing programmes to the benefit of its members and their contributions,” Lewis stated.

In this vain, the trade unionist pointed to statistics which shows that the majority of security officers are female. On this note, he referred to comments recently made by Minister within the Social Protection Ministry, Keith Scott, suggesting plans to prevent female security officers who are single mothers from working the night shift.

“Women have fought for equal rights, women have not fought for sympathy.

They have fought for their intellectual capabilities to be respected and be respected in a manner where they

Moreover, Minister Scott told reporters on the sidelines of Tuesday’s Appreciation Day ceremony that his statement was dissected and blown out of proportion.

“It was a question of interpretation that they were reacting to; for example, when we spoke about the conditions of security guards, are you saying that that condition doesn’t exist – no you’re not saying that. But what was happening was some newspapers and some companies perhaps sought to highlight or to use soundbytes, where it extracted what suited them and they blow out of proportion the exact thing that was said,” explained the Minister.

He went on to add that, “What is wrong with someone asking that females be giving attention, being bet-

ter paid. It’s not only that, we talked about hours, we

talked about other conditions of service that not

only affects women. We also spoke about the elder that they must be examined by a medical personnel at least every six months and if they’re physically fit, they can work. We never said that women must not work, the Constitution gives them the right to work,” Scott outlined.

Nevertheless, Minister Scott in his speech urged security firms to continue recognising outstanding work by their employees, who were also called upon to execute their duties in an exemplar manner that would be recognised.

12 news

thursDAY, september 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Sugar workers paid Guyana turns to Jamaica to protect food exports after 2 weeks

T

I

n light of high-level meetings regarding the financial state of the sugar industry, workers were finally paid but only after information surfaced that several categories of employees had not been paid for their services for about two weeks.

At Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting, the Guyana Sugar Corporation’s (GuySuCo) request for urgent monies was granted which paved the way for workers across the estates to receive their salaries. Guyana Times was told that workers at Uitvlugt and at Wales received their weekly salaries

by Wednesday afternoon.

The disb u r s e ments for workers at Wales followed a nearly three-hour meeting at that entity on Wednesday morning where workers, in some tense moments, had demanded to know why they weren’t paid up to that point. Many workers had earlier contended that their dwindling finances were affecting their ability to feed and send their children to school and to meet other financial needs. This publication was made aware that the lack of finances during the period also hit the village economy.

It was only Wednesday that Guyana Times reported that the industry’s “cash-

The Wales Sugar Estate

strapped” status was directly impacting workers. This newspaper had also reported that workers across the industry were turning up at the various estates only to be told that there was no money available to pay them.

Workers still attached at the downsized Wales Sugar Estate had been called to a meeting on Monday, where they were informed of the industry’s financial state. When workers inquired as to when they will be receiving payments, officials at Wales were, at that time, reportedly reluctant to commit to a date but said that as soon as finances are available, the sugar workers would be paid.

On Monday, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo along with GuySuCo’s Chairman of the Board of Directors, Clive Thomas and Chief Executive Officer, Errol Hanoman, met to discuss “urgent cash flow relative to wages, salaries and other payments at

GuySuCo.” GuySuCo had revealed that at the high-level meeting, it was agreed on the steps to be taken to ensure the employees are paid for services provided to the Corporation for the past week. GuySuCo had disclosed that the Chairman and the CEO were “given assurances that the matter is being given the utmost consideration by the Government and the Corporation.”

At present, the Guyana Sugar Corporation employs close to 17,000 people but it has been estimated that its planned downsizing could directly affect the livelihoods of some 10,000 sugar workers and thousands more via their family members and communities that depend on the sugar industry. Government has long contended that the necessary measures to re-organise sugar must be implemented for it to be sustained and the Wales Estate was the first entity to be closed under the policy decision which was met with much criticism and protests.

he Guyanese Government has sought to protect its exports to the United States by turning to Jamaica for assistance in preparing processed food exporters to meet the requirements of the US Food Safety Modernisation Act (FSMA).

Signed into law by former US President Barack Obama in January 2011, the FSMA aims to ensure that the US food supply is safe by shifting the focus from responding to contamination to preventing it.

As a result, Caribbean suppliers to the US market who fail to meet the requirements of the law could have their exports rejected.

In order to prepare to meet the requirements, the Government Analyst-Food and Drug Department (GAFDD) contracted Jamaican food technology firm, Technological Solutions Limited (TSL), to undertake an intervention and training programme, according to a

Government Analyst-Food and Drug Department Director Marlan Cole

release.

That included an introduction to food safety and certification systems, training of food and public health inspectors and guidance with attaining ISO 17025 accreditation for food and drug laboratories.

The training programme also covered packaging and labelling requirements for Canada, the United States of America, Europe and the

United Kingdom, as well as details of the FSMA, the release said.

Training of Guyanese food industry analysts was not confined to work in their own country. A number of analysts were in Jamaica for training at TSL’s testing laboratory in selected analyses to prepare them for work at Guyana’s food and drug department.

GA-FDD Director Marlan Cole was quoted as saying: “We took the initiative to ensure that trade between Guyana and the US... continues unabated. The GA-FDD’s laboratory must be capable of lending support to the industry and the department’s inspectorate.”

According to TSL Managing Director, Dr Andre Gordon, “one of the important things that any country can do is to make sure that the system in place for its food industry stays relevant with what is happening in the rest of the world.” (Jamaica Gleaner)

Police arrest suspect in Mocha robberies

H

ours after a group of persons were robbed in the vicinity of Second Bridge, Mocha, East Bank Demerara, ranks of the Guyana Police Force on Tuesday arrested the suspect.

According to the Force’s Public Relations Officer, Jairam Ramlakhan, the arrest was made sometime around 11:00h. The sus-

pect is in custody assisting with investigations into the armed street robbery committed on a group of six persons, inclusive of three females during the early hours of Tuesday.

The suspect, 27-yearold Dillion Joel Dublin, of Lot 96 Nelson Street, Mocha, was positively identified by the victims on Wednesday. As

New Demerara bridge...

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, “the man that had championed himself as a defender of sugar workers no doubt would have had to support the key item on the agenda, a multi-billion subsidy for the Guyana Sugar Corporation in order to meet employment cost.”

“In other words, pay people their salaries,” Ramsaroop stressed.

“How on earth is this country going to be able to afford to pour money into Granger’s legacy project and at the same time be able to make the investments and cash transfers necessary in order to save the jobs of thousands of Guyanese?”

According to Ramsaroop, “there is nobody that does not see the need and importance for a new bridge, but at what cost...can we really afford to give over to the State more than US$300 million over the next 10 years just to say we built a bridge, a bridge that cannot even make enough money to carry out its own operations?”

Red flags

He told this publication the new crossing over the

Demerara River is undoubtedly needed, but “if Burnham could have bridged that river decades ago at a cheaper cost, his protégé certainly can find not only a cheaper way to get it done, but a way that saves the sugar industry and the thousands of jobs that depend on that industry”.

The red flags are there, he said, and used as an example the projected increase in tolls from US$5.4 million in the first year of operation to more than $8.4 million a decade later.

This projection is based on a five per cent increase projected for road traffic.

According to Ramsaroop, what the report seems to have forgotten is that the majority of physical land space that is the most accelerated in terms of development lies on the eastern bank of the Demerara River.

“This, together with the planned East Bank bypass road, would mean even if the projected increase in vehicles were to be realised, they are not going to be using the bridge...besides people will avoid that bridge

such, the Police have instituted six counts of robbery under arms charges against Dublin and he will be arraigned before a Magistrate soon.

He is also being questioned in relation to the robbery and shooting of a cashier and supervisor which occurred at Plantation Providence at about 02:00h on Tuesday.

From page 10

like a plague because of the high tolls.”

According to Ramsaroop, “Patto (David Patterson) must be sailing if he still believes that this project is not dangerous to the country when that very report says revenues from toll make up for the operation expenditures but cannot support the debt service.”

Dr Ramsaroop said it was clear the Alliance For Change (AFC) had lost any bit of clout it ever held in Granger’s coalition as was evident in Patterson’s ill-informed outbursts.

“The report itself says the toll rates can be increased, but there is a limit to that since a too-large increase would make the toll unaffordable for many of the people who have to use the bridge....How can you defend such a project knowing fully well that the Government support the consultants are asking for is in fact the assistance currently going to thousands and thousands of Guyanese in poor rural communities, poor Guyanese that depend on the continued survival of the Guyana Sugar Corporation.”

13 Lewis decries cont’d impasse Cause of death on BCGI/RUSAL issue of woman struck E at Ogle revealed news

thursDAY, september 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

ight years after some 57 workers were dismissed and suspended by the Russianbased Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI), there is yet to be closure of the issue and the coalition Government is being called upon to take a more stringent approach towards the matter, even as atrocities against Guyanese workers continue.

Representative of the Guyana Bauxite and General Workers Union (GB&GWU), Lincoln Lewis, reiterated the disrespect that BCGI, a subsidiary of RUSAL, continues to show not only to Guyanese and the Government, but the country’s laws as well.

“RUSAL cannot continue in this country to challenge the sovereignty of Guyana by not respecting it and I believe that Minister Scott and the Cabinet of this country has a responsibility to ensure that they respect it,” he stated.

On this note, the trade unionist called on Government, as the custodian of the laws, to either take

Trade unionist Lincoln Lewis

stringent actions against the company or terminate its operations here.

“The ball is in the Government’s court. The Government had decided in one specific case that it will wave taxes and overtime pay for workers employed at RUSAL and RUSAL has refused to sign the document.

The Government has signed, the Union has signed and they have refused to sign so the workers are not benefiting from it. It should have been effective since October

1, 2016. We cannot continue to live like this, if RUSAL has the temerity to stand up to tell the Government they’re not signing it for the workers to get what is agreed upon, then sometime is wrong. Who runs this country; RUSAL or us,” the veteran trade unionist argued.

Meanwhile, commenting on the issue, Minister Keith Scott has stated that the Government has been relentlessly working to ensure that the matter is resolved between the two parties.

“In terms of us performing our duties, there could be no fault; we’ve done that all the time. We can’t break the hands of the company or the hands of the Union, but what we can do is insist that the companies, whether local or foreign, respect and adhere to the laws of Guyana. In the areas where we find that there is any transgression, we are relentless in bringing the companies to book and we shall continue to do so,” he posited.

Following a meeting

this week with representatives from GB&GWU, Minister Scott said his officer is currently making arrangements to visit the operations of these companies, especially in light of reports of breaches of the occupation and safety health laws.

Among the issues the union representatives complained bitterly to the Minister about during the meeting was the use of defective vehicles to transport staff to the worksites on a daily basis.

In fact, Minister Scott was told that one of the faulty vehicles caused an accident last Thursday in which several persons were injured.

Nevertheless, the Minister said during the upcoming visit to the companies, he will be looking into these issues.

Over the years, workers at BCGI and RUSAL have been crying out against the treatment meted out by management of the company as they advocate for better pay and union representation.

Wedding house brawl at Wales

Suspect in head chopping incident to make court appearance

D

Division (West Bank Demerara-East Bank Essequibo) Commander, Leslie James, confirmed on Wednesday that ranks in his division are investigating the details surrounding an altercation between two men which led to one chopping the other in the head.

Guyana Times was recently told that the two men, along with others, were imbibing at a wedding house on a sideline dam in the Wales, West Bank Demerara area over the weekend.

The two men were seen arguing at first but the altercation became more intense and the aggressor obtained at sharp instrument and reportedly dealt the victim at least one chop to the head.

The man was hospitalised and was subsequently discharged.

This publication was told that the aggressor is currently in the lockups at the Wales Police Station and could be arraigned through the court today. This newspaper was also

The Wales Police Station

the chops is known for exhibiting violent behaviour and was in the past wanted for chopping off Sister’s Village resident Jamie Narine’s arm some years ago during a separate altercation.

Reports from persons in

Part of Jamie Narine’s arm was completely severed during an altercation with the reportedly violent aggressor some years ago

informed that the victim, reportedly called “Spragga”, appeared at the Wales Police Station on Wednesday where he provided statements to investigative ranks.

Guyana Times understands that the man who dealt

the area suggest the man had evaded West Demerara Police and was residing in Berbice. It was disclosed that he returned to Demerara and was roaming free in the area for the last several months. Investigations are continuing.

A

s the family of 20-year-old sales girl Anastacia Kerr continues to deal with the sudden loss of the young woman, her cause of death was determined by a State Pathologist on Wednesday. Kerr, a former Lot 5 Hope Estate, East Coast Demerara (ECD) resident was struck and killed by a drunken Police Lance Corporal at the Ogle Public Road, ECD on Sunday last.

Relatives witnessed her post-mortem examination (PME) which confirmed that she died as a result of multiple injuries. Reports were that the young woman was struck at about 19:30h by the rank who is reportedly attached to the Tactical Service Unit (TSU) of the Guyana Police Force. This newspaper reported that the Policeman was proceeding along the roadway in motorcar PSS 3984, when the now dead woman allegedly ran across the road and into the path of the vehicle. As a result, the left side of the car collided with her.

Kerr was picked up by the rank and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital in an unconscious state, where she subsequently succumbed to her injuries while receiving medical attention. Preliminary investigations had revealed that the 39-year-old Police rank was reportedly in the speed limit; however, a breathaly-

Deceased sales girl, Anastacia Kerr

ser test had revealed that he was above the legal limit of alcohol consumption.

Over the last few months, there have been increasing reports of junior Police ranks being involved in fatal accidents.

In August, Eno David, 22, of Matthew’s Ridge, North West District was killed by a Policeman at Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara who was transporting an injured colleague – who himself was involved in a separate accident. Both of the cars were the private vehicles of the junior ranks.

Also in that month, 58-year-old Pulmattie Ramotar, of Success, ECD, passed away two days after being struck by an allegedly speeding Police Officer on the Success, ECD Public Road.

14 news

thursDAY, september 21, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

GTM records $16M decline Two 9-year-old boys accuse teen in after-tax profit for 2016 of sexual molestation – compared to previous year

GTM’s Board Chairman, RL Singh

By Lakhram Bhagirat

T

he Guyana and Trinidad Mutual Fire Insurance Company Limited (GTM) recorded an after-tax profit of $66 million for the year 2016, compared to $82 million in 2015.

This decrease, according to Chairman of the Board of Directors, RL Singh is a direct result of a reduction in gross premiums as well as an increase in reinsurance cost.

In presenting the Chairman’s report at the Company’s 137th Annual General Meeting, Singh noted that it has been a difficult year for GTM, adding that the decline in insurance premiums was caused by a number of factors inclusive of fierce competition and a decision not to renew a number of policies due to non-compliance and adverse claims.

“The increase in reinsurance costs was as a result of your Company’s reinsurers having to pay a number of large fire claims at the end of 2015 and the first half of 2016 emanating from Guyana. As a result, net premiums totalled $1.95 billion or $196.26 million less than the previous year,” Singh told shareholders at the AGM on Wednesday.

He noted that the ‘yes vote’ on Brexit caused the Company to sustain severe currency exchange loss since the Pound Sterling was devalued. However, he noted although the Company saw a decline in its premium income, it remains the largest non-life insurance company in Guyana.

The Chairman said that the Eastern Caribbean States continue to experience limited economic growth coupled with high levels of unemployment, ultimately resulting in business being affected. He added that the Company’s investment was limited to deposits, Government-backed bonds, treasury bills and mortgages to sales and administrative staff.

“During the year 2016, your Company wrote new business amounting to $41 billion with annualised premiums of $158 million. At the end of the year, the total business in force amounted to $374 billion in sums insured with annualised premium income of $1.74 billion,” he told shareholders.

Singh revealed that for the year 2016, motor insurance premiums increased by $25 million (two per cent) on account of lower premium rates.

– in Berbice

“We are in agreement that 2016 has been a very difficult year not just for the GTM Fire Insurance Company but for most insurance companies across the Region in terms of premium growth. The Board and management have already put in train steps to improve production, manage claims costs and contain expenditures,” he explained.

He further stated that they have already taken steps to review and strengthen the company’s underwriting and its management policies and procedures. Singh told shareholders that the Company would continue to seek out new niche markets while improving its business retention strategies.

He informed that the Company was now utilising a new accounting software, Microsoft Dynamics GP, to improve its cost management. Singh stated that the Company’s assets totalled $6.7 billion, an increase of $50 million when compared to 2015.

“I am pleased to announce that your Company will be making a declaration of a cash profit return of 50 per cent of premiums on profit policies…we are pleased to declare a final dividend of 4.7 per cent for the period to Ordinary Scrip, Preferent Script and First Preferred Stock Holders,” the Chairman informed.

GTM would be constructing a new office in Le Choc, St Lucia, which is expected to be completed by the end of April 2018.

Meanwhile, a number of staff members were recognised for their contributions and achievements at the AGM.

P

olice are investigating allegations that a Berbice teenager, who is a school dropout, has sexually molested two boys who are both nine years old.

The incident is alleged to have been committed in the Upper Corentyne area.

Guyana Times understands that the boys were forced to perform oral sex on the school dropout, whose age was given as 13.

It is alleged that the sus-

pect is a school dropout who would wander the streets and lure students smaller than him to a secluded area and force them to perform sexual acts on him.

Reports are that the two nine-year-olds were questioned about the issue and provided some information to an adult who contacted the parents.

Both of the boys were taken to be medically examined and this publica-

Decriminalise attempted suicide – GPHC Board Chair

Persons at SASOD’s vigil

C

hair of the Board of Directors of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Kesaundra Alves told persons at the Society Against Sexual Orientation and Discrimination (SASOD) candlelight vigil last Saturday that there was a need for the decriminalisation of attempted suicide in Guyana.

The vigil was held on the eve of World Suicide Prevention Day, under the theme, “Take A Minute, Change A Life.”

“Survivors are crying out

GPHC Chairperson Kesaundra Alves

loudly for help and will only reach out for support if they feel safe and protected by

UG, Theatre Guild receive donation of 375 chairs – taken from Arthur Chung Conference Centre

Public Telecommunications Minister Cathy Hughes hands over the chairs to Dr Ivelaw Griffith, Vice Chancellor and Principal of the University of Guyana

P

u b l i c Telecommunications Minister Cathy Hughes on Wednesday donated a number of chairs to the University of Guyana and the Theatre Guild.

The chairs were taken from the Arthur Chung

Conference Centre (ACCC), which is currently being renovated.

Minister Hughes said that with the ongoing rehabilitation of the ACCC, the Ministry decided to donate the chairs that would no longer be needed at the Centre.

“We decided that we would donate those chairs to two organisations.”

The Minister explained that a committee working closely with the administration of the Conference Centre to monitor the progress of the repairs, initiated the idea of donating the chairs to the University and the Theatre Guild.

Minister Hughes further added that the work on the Conference Centre “is going very well and we are down to reopen by May of 2018”.

According to the Department of Public Information, 275 of the chairs will be used to upgrade the student’s lounge at UG. Some will be installed in classrooms that will allow for stationary chairs and the rest will be placed in the Centre for Communications Studies.

Vice Chancellor and Principal of the University of Guyana, Dr Ivelaw Griffith

tion was informed that the medical examiner found that there was no sexual penetration. However, based on the detailed description that both of the boys gave as to what transpired, the Police were called in and have begun to investigate.

Reports are that the 13-year-old works as a labourer in the vicinity of a market on the Corentyne.

(Andrew Carmichael)

Public Telecommunications Minister Cathy Hughes hands over chairs to Board Members of the Theatre Guild

received the chairs while Deputy Vice Chancellor of Philanthropy, Alumni and Civic Engagement, Dr Paloma Mohamed, thanked Minister Hughes for the donation. They both noted that the areas designated for the installation of the chairs were in need of an upgrade and the contribution was a timely one.

Professor Griffith also

thanked Director of Business, Dereck Cummings; Director of the Conference Centre, Nandkumar and staff of the University.

Additionally, 100 chairs were donated to the Theatre Guild. Board Member of the Guild, Malcolm De Freitas observed that the chairs would improve the facility’s capacity to host events and give the playhouse a new ambience.

the laws,” Alves said, while drawing attention to the seriousness of depression and mental illness.

The need for protection and security by-laws and entities to be put in place to assist those battling with depression was evident in the ‘suicide note’ left behind by former Board Secretary of SASOD and human rights and LGBT activist, the late Zenita Temall Nicholson.

Founder and Managing Director of SASOD, Joel Simpson read the saddening letter of turmoil and futile efforts to reach out for help, at the vigil.

In keeping with the theme, members of the gathering took some time to voice their understanding and experiences of suicide.

The evening ended with the lighting of candles, a minute of silence for all the lives lost to suicide and a pledge to aid in the prevention of suicide.

With Guyana having the second highest suicide rate per capita in the world, organisations like SASOD seek to assist in the complete elimination of the fatal scourge. In solidifying steps forward, SASOD saw the commencement of work by its first on-site counsellor, who would be available every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for counselling sessions.

Through sensitisation and practical observances like this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day vigil, SASOD hopes to facilitate a more serious discussion that would initiate more strategic mechanisms by both governmental and civic stakeholders to address the inequalities, which are at the root of the suicide epidemic in Guyana.

thursDAY, september 21, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

15

The irrepressible Sharon Williams of DaCosta’s Indigenous Craft

B

oatloads of charm.

That is the indelible impression one is left with upon meeting Sharon Williams, a maker of indigenous craft.

Pointing to each item she had displayed for sale, Williams, who hails from Moruca, Region One (Barima-Waini), carefully

described it, detailing all of the natural materials used to produce the striking creations.

DaCosta’s Indigenous Craft, the business she co-owns with her cousin Shawnette DaCosta, specialises in “authentic native accessories, head-dresses, outfits, dream catchers,

pots, jewellery boxes, etc”. It also sells cassava bread, Pomeroon cassareep, cassava starch, and honey.

Their creative genius was evident in the wide array of products on show – ranging from colourful straw dresses to bejewelled coconut jewellery boxes – and

their unique colour, shape, finish or material.

Williams revealed that the items on display in her booth during the Amerindian cultural exhibition at Sophia Exhibition Site took weeks to complete, but she was not satisfied with the level of production, candidly disclosing that she had a late start.

But then an irrepressible smile pops out and she says the response has been good.

One patron after a few questions about the materials used buys an impeccably woven matapee.

It reminds him of the ones his grandmother used to make, he says, and he has been searching for one like it for months.

In their interaction, Williams’s easy and relaxed yet confident manner shone through – illustrating her impressive customer service and marketing skills.

In a later interview, her cousin said: “It’s really good [to own your own business].

But the craft business, we do not get the support we deserve.

Guyanese really don’t like buying craft…they should support.”

Williams, who concurred as to the joys and difficulties inherent in the craft business earlier, is clearly not deterred as she confidently expounded on the plans she has for the exhibition next year.

Contact: 660-6569, 6719894

Leveraging Psychology & Neuroscience In Business & Marketing

Scarcity & loss aversion

Market statistics

By Rosh Khan, MD

Cambio Rates

Gold Prices – Guyana Gold Board

Bank of Guyana Cur

Buying

Calculated at 94% purity, September 20, 2017

Selling

GBP

$278.61

$282.14

CAN

$168.15

$170.1

USD

$205.98

$208.44

EURO

$ 247.16

$250.31

USD

$1311.30

Gross

$255,781

Net

$237,877

Indicators as on September 20, 2017 Indicators

US$ per barrel

Crude Oil

$55.14

Price

USD

Rough Rice

$280.94/ton

London Sugar

$365.00/ton

Live Spot Gold

-0.62 Change %

+0.08 0.00 USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1296.00

$1297.00

Low/High

$1295.50

$1316.90

Change

Business Concept – Audit

Change %

-4.50

-0.35%

Accounting: Systematic examination and verification of a firm's books of account, transaction records, other relevant documents, and physical inspection of inventory by qualified accountants (called auditors). See also external audit and internal audit.

2. Quality control: Periodic (usually every six months) onsite-verification (by a certification authority) to ascertain whether or not a documented quality system is being effectively implemented. (Business Dictionary)

H

ave you ever noticed that things in limited quantities seem more appealing? Like Apple’s or Nike’s release of new products? Perhaps you’ve experienced this in your own life – the desire to “want what you can’t have”.

Statistics show that people tend to purchase quickly when they are informed that a product is in limited supply or if a special offer expires soon. That’s the concept of ‘scarcity’ at play and according to world-renowned consumer psychologist, Dr Robert Cialdini, scarcity increases the perceived value of the item or service you’re offering.

Let’s talk a step back and analyse the two main objectives of human behaviour – to avoid pain and to experience pleasure. These two reasons influence most, if not all, of our decisions.

Studies show that people are more likely to purchase if they know they’ll miss the opportunity (ie, avoiding pain) than only benefiting (ie, gain-

ing pleasure). In other words, it’s seen as better to not lose $5 than to find $5. This is referred to as loss aversion.

Many companies leverage this by advertising items in limited quantities or offering discounts for a limited amount of time. When done effectively, scarcity marketing can re-engage your customer base and can even create a new passionate following – thereby making way for other products to also sell fast.

However, there is a caveat. It must be ethical. Many companies use “75% OFF” to gain attention, but then inflate their original pricing so the savings actually work out to the normal retail cost. Other companies falsely state that they are almost out of stock in an effort to sell more. This is not a business practice that should be encouraged and is the wrong approach to scarcity marketing.

Instead, companies should be truthful. The discounts should be real. Plus, in the day and age of social media, buyers can easily post

via social media – leading to a potential PR nightmare.

Even the service industry can use scarcity ethically. If a service-oriented company can only handle a certain number of clients per month, then this information can be utilised in marketing.

Prospects will be aware that there is a finite number of clients that can be onboarded.

Should there be a desire to work with you, the prospects may need to quickly secure their spot.

In addition to using it ethically, your product must also be desirable to the market. No amount of scarcity marketing will sell unwanted products and services.

Instead, aim to build a loyal customer base that can’t wait for your new release.

Scarcity marketing is a powerful strategy if used effectively.

Dr Rosh Khan is an international business and marketing consultant and the CEO of FranklinCovey Guyana, the Masterclass Institute, and SocialRank Media – Guyana’s leading digital marketing agency.

16

guyanatimesgy.com

thursDAY, september 21, 2017

Regional

Mexico earthquake: Children killed CTO responds to Dominica’s plight at collapsed primary school

T

A

t least 21 children and five adults died at a primary school which collapsed in Mexico City during Tuesday’s quake, the government says. The shallow, 7.1 magnitude quake killed at least 225 people in total and caused major damage across states in the centre of the country.

Desperate searches for survivors under the rubble are continuing.

Dozens of buildings collapsed, including several churches where worshippers were killed. Families with young children could be seen sleeping outside their homes in the street in the capital overnight.

The tremor struck shortly after many people had taken part in an earthquake drill, exactly 32 years after another quake killed thousands in the capital.

Mexico is prone to earthquakes and earlier this month an 8.1 magnitude tremor in the south left at least 90 people dead.

Though it struck a similar region, Tuesday’s earthquake does not appear to be connected with the quake on September 7, which was at least 30 times more energetic, the BBC’s Jonathan Amos writes.

Hundreds of rescue workers were sent to the school

Enrique Rébsamen primary school collapsed in Mexico City’s southern Coapa district. Confirming the death toll, Education Minister Aurelio Nuño? said 11 people had been rescued while two children and an adult were missing. Local media had reported a higher death toll earlier. More than 500 members of the army and navy, along with 200 police officers and volunteers, have been working at the site, Mexican

newspaper Milenio says.

“Some voices have been heard,” Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto said after visiting the rescue operation.

“In the time I have been here, I have seen how at times they have asked for total silence, solidarity to listen for the voices.”

At least 209 schools were affected by the quake, 15 of which have suffered severe damage. (Excerpt from BBC News)

he Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) has already begun to assist with sourcing and raising funds, relief suppliers and shelter for those in Dominica left reeling from the devastation wrought by Category Five Hurricane Maria.

“We will also help to manage the vital communications process. We are attempting to assess the most urgent needs and to tackle those first. We have activated our Hurricane Relief Fund to help our people and countries rebuild after the hurricanes,” the CTO outlined in a press release.

Pointing out that it was trying to get details on the extent of the damage, the organisation stated that it was “heartbroken” over the hurt the system has inflicted on Dominica.

While the hurricane was impacting the island, its

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit posted that the initial reports were of widespread devastation and that the island had lost all of what money could buy and replace.

“So, far the winds have swept away the roofs of almost every person I have spoken to or otherwise made contact with. The roof to my own official residence was among the first to go and this apparently triggered an avalanche of torn away roofs in the city and the countryside. Come tomorrow morning we will hit the road, as soon as the all clear is given, in search of the injured and those trapped in the rubble.

Meanwhile, the government of Trinidad and Tobago announced it would offer assistance to Dominica. (Excerpt from Barbados Advocate)

Hurricane Maria: Hurricane Maria blamed for 2 deaths in Guadeloupe Whole of Puerto M Rico without power enacing Hurricane Maria is being blamed for two deaths on the French overseas territory of Guadeloupe, after devastating neighbouring Dominica.

According to the officials, one of the victims was killed yesterday morning by a falling tree, after not heeding orders to stay indoors. The

Rescue workers help people in Guayama, Puerto Rico

H

urricane Maria has knocked out power to the entire island of Puerto Rico, home to 3.5m people, emergency officials have said. Abner Gómez, head of the disaster management agency, said the hurricane had damaged “everything in its path”.

None of the customers of Puerto Rico’s Electric Power Authority had any electricity, he said.

Maria weakened to a category three storm with winds of 115 mph (185km/h) as it moved across the island. “The information we received is not encouraging,” Gómez told a briefing, urging people to stay in their homes.

Earlier, Puerto Rico’s governor asked President Donald Trump to declare the island a disaster area after the storm unleashed heavy flooding and life-threatening winds.

Governor Ricardo Rossello said major damage was inevitable, although 500 shelters had been established to protect people.

The devastating storm has already left seven people dead on the island of Dominica, which was badly affected on Monday.

Aerial footage shows flat-

tened houses and the death toll on Dominica is likely to rise, with details remaining scant as communication links are down.

Images shared on social media show roofs being stripped away as winds as strong as 140 mph (225 km/h) whipped trees and power lines in Puerto Rico’s capital city, San Juan.

Maria made landfall in Yabucoa in the east of Puerto Rico early on Wednesday, according to the US National Hurricane Centre (NHC).

The US territory is facing US$73 billion (£53 billion) in public debt and the damage left by Maria could exacerbate its financial crisis. Declaring a disaster would mean the island could receive more federal assistance in its recovery.

Puerto Rico has experienced just one category five storm since 1851 – the Okeechobee Hurricane in 1928.

Maria is the second storm of this strength to hit the Caribbean this hurricane season – the first being category five Irma earlier in September. Maria began moving roughly along the same track as Irma. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Associated Press reported a second death today.

Two other people are reported missing after their boat sank off Desirade, the easternmost island in the French territory’s archipelago. Heavy flooding has also been reported across the island.

Guadeloupe’s Préfecture office has reported that

Pointe-a-Pitre and coastal areas around the capital, Basse-Terre, have been left under water; most of the island’s roads are impassable because of downed trees and flooding; and while the majority of the buildings remain structurally sound, numerous roofs were ripped off.

It added that 80,000, or

40 per cent, of the homes on the island were without power on Tuesday.

The airport was scheduled to reopen to commercial flights on Wednesday.

Maria passed about 100 to 150 kilometres from the island’s coast, causing “strong winds and rain” but no major extra damage, Gardin said. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Reports of death and destruction emerge from Dominica

S

even people have so far been confirmed dead as a result of Hurricane Maria’s direct hit on Dominica on Monday night. But there are fears that death toll could rise as officials get into communities that have not yet been reached.

Much of the island’s housing stock were either damaged or destroyed by Maria’s 160 mile-per-hour winds, according to Hartley Henry, principal advisor to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit.

“The country is in a daze – no electricity, no running water as a result of uprooted pipes in most communities and definitely [no] landline or cellphone services on island, and that will be for

Some of the damage done in Dominica

quite a while,” Henry wrote in a message after speaking to Prime Minister Skerrit this morning via satellite phone.

“In summary, the island has been devastated. The housing stock significantly

damaged or destroyed. All available public buildings are being used as shelters, with very limited roofing materials evident. The country needs the support and continued help and prayers of all.”

The first aerial footage from the island, put together from a Regional Security System (RSS) aerial reconnaissance flight, shows flattened buildings, fallen trees and strewn debris from the Category 5 hurricane.

The main general hospital took a beating. Patient care has been compromised.

Many buildings serving as shelters lost roofs, which means that a very urgent need now is tarpaulins and other roofing materials.

Little contact has been made with the outer communities, but persons who walked 10 and 15 miles towards the city of Roseau from various outer districts report total destruction of homes, some roadways and crops. (Excerpt from

Caribbean360)

3 people held in Brazil on suspicion of British kayaker’s murder

T

hree people have been arrested over the murder of a British woman who went missing in Brazil while kayaking alone from the source of the Amazon to the Atlantic.

Emma Kelty, a 43-yearold primary school headteacher, was last heard from when she triggered a distress signal last Wednesday

while in a notoriously dangerous area.

In a statement, Police in the state capital Manaus said they had arrested one 17-year-old male on Monday in Codajás, 150 miles (240km) away, and a second 17-year-old on Tuesday in Lauro Sodré, where Kelty was killed. That Amazon community lies two hours

from the town of Coari, where police arrested the third man, who has been named as Erinei Ferreira da Silva. They are also seeking four other suspects.

The first arrested teenager told Police Kelty was camped on Boieiro Island, which faces Lauro Sodré, when two people approached her. Five others then arrived

and the group stole her belongings. She was shot twice with a sawn-off, 20 calibre shotgun and her body thrown in the river.

According to the teenager, the group then tried to sell her two mobile phones, a tablet computer and a GoPro camera in local communities. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

thursDAY, september 21, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

Around the World

Dozens of States sign treaty banning nuclear weapons

I

n a new attempt towards the total elimination of nuclear weapons, the United Nations has introduced a new treaty banning the use, development, testing or storing of nuclear weapons under any circumstances.

The agreement was signed on Wednesday in New York by more than 50 UN member states, but several nuclear powers, including the US, UK and France, boycotted the signing ceremony.

"There remain some 15,000 nuclear weapons in existence. We cannot allow these doomsday weapons to endanger our world and our children’s future," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Wednesday.

Officially known as the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, the agreement was adopted in

17

Representatives of UN member States attend the signing ceremony for the treaty

July 2017 at a UN conference in New York.

A total of 122 countries had voted in favour of adopting the treaty, while The Netherlands was the only country that voted against it - Singapore abstained.

Yet, the move was seen as only symbolic, since all the nuclear-armed states and several other countries did not take part in the July vote.

"This initiative clearly

disregards the realities of the international security environment. Accession to the ban treaty is incompatible with the policy of nuclear deterrence, which has been essential to keeping the peace in Europe and North Asia for over 70 years," the US, UK and France said in a joint statement in July, adding that they do not plan to ever become party to the treaty. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

As Brexit clock ticks down, EU eyes new offer from May

E

uropean capitals expect British Prime Minister Theresa May to try to break a deadlock in Brexit talks over the coming days by signaling a readiness to pay the EU to stay in the single market for a time after it leaves the bloc.

Senior officials dealing with Brexit in Brussels, Berlin and other capitals said they had not received any concrete overtures from May ahead of a speech in Florence, Italy, on Friday, at which she is expected to flesh out her vision of Britain’s future relationship with the European Union.

And they played down a report in the Financial Times that her EU adviser, Oliver Robbins, had informed German Chancellor Angela Merkel and other leaders that May could make an offer of 20 billion euros to cover a post-Brexit transition period.

British Prime Minister Theresa May addresses the 72nd United Nations General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York, US, September 20, 2017

“We have not been informed in advance about any concrete negotiation offers from the British government,” a German government spokesman said.

But the officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said they had received signals from London that May would try to break a months-long

impasse that has raised fears on either side of the Channel that Britain could exit the bloc in 2019 without a deal on its future EU ties.

These officials said they expected May to signal soon that she would like to keep Britain in the single market for two to three years and was prepared to pay for the access.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Spanish Police raid Catalan Govt to halt banned referendum Australian school discriminated S against turban-wearing boy

A

n Australian school discriminated against a five-year-old Sikh boy when it prevented his

non-Christian head coverings for boys. But the boy's father, Sagardeep Singh Arora, argued that not let-

Sidhak Singh was initially not allowed to wear his patka, or child's turban, to school

enrolment because he wore a turban, a tribunal has found.

The uniform policy of Melton Christian School in Melbourne prohibits

ting him wear the patka, a child's turban, was indirect discrimination.

The tribunal ruled in Arora's favour on Tuesday.

Having uncut hair, or

kesh, is a Sikh belief and wearing a patka is an essential practice of the religion.

But the Christian school chose not to make an exception for the boy, Sidhak, after an enrolment meeting with the family last year.

Arora told the BBC that he had been stunned by the rejection.

"In such an advanced country like Australia, it was just shocking," he said.

"You have Sikh people wearing turbans in the Police Force and Army in Australia, but my son can't go to school."

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal said Sidhak had been disadvantaged because he wasn't able to attend the school which was close to home and where his cousins were also students.

In its defence, the school had relied on an exemption in the state's discrimination laws that allows schools to enforce reasonable dress codes for students following consultation with the community. (Excerpt from BBC News)

panish Police raided Catalan Government offices and arrested officials on Wednesday to halt a banned referendum on independence, an action the regional President said meant Madrid had effectively taken over his Administration.

Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the regional government offices in the center of Barcelona’s tourist district, waving the redand-yellow Catalan flag and chanting “Occupying forces out” and “Where is Europe?”.

“The Spanish state has by all rights intervened in Catalonia’s government and has established emergency rule,” Catalan President Carles Puigdemont said in a televised address. “We condemn and reject the anti-democratic and totalitarian actions of the Spanish state,” he said, adding Catalans should turn out in force to vote in the October 1 referendum on a split from Spain that Madrid has declared illegal. State police arrested Catalonia’s junior economy minister Josep

Maria Jove on Wednesday in their first raid of government offices in the region, Catalan government sources said. The raid targeted several regional government departments.

A dozen high-ranking local officials were arrested, La Vanguardia newspaper said.

Police confirmed they were carrying out raids connected with the banned referendum, but did not give details. The Catalan government sources could not confirm the other arrests. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Kenya's Supreme Court criticises IEBC electoral commission

K

enya's Supreme Court has blamed the country's electoral commission (IEBC) for its decision to annul the re-election of President Uhuru Kenyatta.

The judges said the 8 August poll was "neither transparent or verifiable".

Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu said the IEBC did not verify the presidential results before they were announced. Mr Kenyatta got 54 per cent of the vote against Opposition Leader Raila Odinga's 44 per

cent, according to the IEBC's results.

Odinga went to court alleging that he had been cheated of victory and that the IEBC had not followed the law in the conduct of the election. The Supreme Court took the unprecedented step of annulling the election on September 1, 2017, but it has only now explained why it took that decision.

It was the first time in Africa that a court had agreed with an Opposition demand to cancel a presidential elec-

tion over rigging allegations.

While the judgement was being read out, Police fired tear gas outside the Supreme Court to disperse Opposition supporters who had gathered to support Odinga.

At one point a swarm of bees attacked some of them.

The judges had ordered the re-run to be held in 60 days. Four judges voted to annul the election while two dissented. Another judge took ill during the hearing of the petition and did not take part in the case. (Excerpt from BBC

News)

Iran's Hassan Rouhani hits back at Trump in UNGA speech

I

ran's President Hassan Rouhani says Tehran will not be the first country to violate a 2015 nuclear deal, hitting back at US President Donald Trump who has hinted he might pull out of the pact.

Addressing the UN General Assembly (UNGA) on Wednesday, Rouhani said his country would respond "decisively and resolutely" if the agreement – signed between Iran and world powers under which Tehran agreed to curb

its nuclear programme in return for relief from economic sanctions – is violated by any party.

"By violating its international commitments the new US administration only destroys its own credibility," he said, reiterating Iran's assurance that Tehran is not planning to develop nuclear weapons.

He also criticised Trump for the speech he made at the UNGA on Tuesday, in which the US president claimed Iran was ex-

Hassan Rouhani called President Donald Trump's remarks an "ignorant rhetoric'

porting violence and destabilising the Middle East and bashed the nuclear deal as an "embarrassment" to the US. Rouhani called Trump's remarks an "ignorant, absurd and hateful rhetoric filled with ridiculously baseless allegations".

Trump said on Wednesday that he had made his decision on whether his country will remain in the nuclear pact, but declined to reveal it. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

thursDAY, september 21, 2017

ARCHIE

ARIES

An

opportunity

may

(March 21- not be as good as it sounds.

April 19) Research the ups and downs

of whatever situation you face before you agree to jump in. Impulsive action will end in regret.

Don’t let the actions of TAURUS others sway your opinion.

(April 20- If someone is enthusiastic May 20) about a deal, look past the excitement and see whether there is any substance behind what’s being offered.

dilbert

An opportunity to make GEMINI (May 21- a work-related change is enJune 20) couraged. Revamp your resume and discuss your options with someone who is already working in a vocation that interests you.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

A steady, levelheaded approach to life and dealing with others will help you bypass discord. Refuse to let your emotions spin out of control and lead to impulsive actions.

Avoid excessive behavior.

Take care of your responsibilities before moving on to enjoyable pastimes if you want to avoid complaints or criticism.

A change may tempt you, but make sure you can afford it before getting started.

Walk away from a finanVIRGO cial deal that leaves you feel(Aug. 23ing uncertain.

Bank on what Sept. 22) you know to be legitimate, and don’t budge if someone puts pressure on you.

A disagreement should be LIBRA (Sept. 23- handled carefully. A fair soluOct. 23) tion may not be enough. Offer an incentive that you know will be too difficult to refuse.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

TODAY’S WORD — COUPLET (COUPLET: KUP-let: A two-line unit of rhyming verse having the same meter.)

Confusion will set in while SAGITTARIUS you are traveling or trying to (Nov. 23- obtain information. Ask quesDec. 21) tions that will help you better understand the changes going on around you. Personal change is highlighted.

Average mark 21 words Time limit 35 minutes

Emotional matters will esCAPRICORN calate if someone is pressur(Dec. 22- ing you or if you try to force Jan. 19) your will on others. You are best off handling matters and doing things on your own.

Can you find 33 or more words in COUPLET? The list will be published tomorrow.

YESTERDAY’S WORD — HOMOGRAPH

harm harp hoar hoop hora oompah

opah moor mora morph gram graph

groom ramp roam romp room pogrom

pooh poor pram proa prom promo

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

Copyright 2015, Distributed by Universal Uclick for UFS

Someone will take advanSCORPIO tage of your vulnerability if you (Oct. 24share your emotional concerns.

Nov. 22) Keep your personal thoughts and affairs secret. Concentrate on getting ahead, not on helping someone else advance.

solution for LAST PUBLISHED Puzzle A change will do you good.

AQUARIUS An unexpected opportunity (Jan. 20- will boost your enthusiasm Feb. 19) and encourage you to get involved in a joint venture.

Financial gains look promising.

Personal improvements PISCES (Feb. 20- can be made. Physical as well March 20) as professional changes will boost your morale, giving you an extra appeal. Partnerships are encouraged, and romance is highlighted.

thursDAY, september 21, 2017

Messi scores helmet trick, Barca beat Eibar 6-1

Lionel Messi has scored 12 goals in all competitions so far this season

L

ionel Messi scored four goals as La Liga leaders Barcelona maintained their 100% start to the season with a big win against Eibar.

Messi converted a penalty to give the hosts the lead before Paulinho headed in a second.

Denis Suarez then struck from a rebound but Sergi Enrich made it 3-1 with a near-post finish.

Messi scored twice within a minute before exchanging passes with Aleix Vidal for a late fourth.

The win means Barcelona are top with 15 points, five clear of second-placed Sevilla but having played a game more.

Messi is once again enjoying an impressive run of form in front goal.

The Argentina forward has scored nine goals in his past four La Liga

appearances with his four on Tuesday moving him to a total of 301 at the Nou Camp in 13 years.

Meanwhile, former West Ham striker Simone Zaza scored a hattrick inside nine minutes as Valencia beat Malaga 5-0.

After Santi Mina opened the scoring, Italy international Zaza scored between the 54th and 63rd minutes to put Valencia in control.

Substitute Rodrigo then finished from Goncalo Guedes' clever backheel to complete the win.

Valencia move up to third in La Liga, six points behind Barcelona. (BBC Sport)

Pakistan’s Khalid Latif

SLAPPED with 5-YEAR BAN

P

akistan batsman Khalid Latif has been banned by the PCB from all forms of cricket for five years for his role in the spot-fixing scandal that marred the 2017 Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Latif, playing for Islamabad United, was charged with six major breaches of the PCB’s anti-corruption code and was found guilty of all six on Wednesday. He was also fined 1 million Pakistan Rupees (USD 9489 approximately).

Latif’s lawyer Badar Alam, who has raised several objections throughout the proceedings of his client, did not show up to hear the verdict being announced.

Alam had refused to turn up for several hearings during proceedings as well, and had registered a case against the formation of the tribunal set up to adjudicate on Latif’s case. Both parties have a right to appeal the judgment within 14 days of receiving the detailed decision, which

Suspended Pakistani cricketer Khalid Latif (left) with his lawyer Badar Alam

has not been released yet.

While PCB’s lawyer Taffazul Rizvi said the PCB would wait and see whether to lodge an appeal, the discontent of Alam suggests an appeal on his client’s part would be likely - where that appeal is lodged and whether it is outside the PCB’s remit is also not yet known.

Unlike Sharjeel Khan, who was banned for 5 years

on August 30 for spot-fixing charges emanating from the same match at the PSL, none of Latif’s sentence is suspended, meaning the 31year old cannot return to cricket till at least 2022. It is the harshest punishment meted out so far to a player involved in the PSL spotfixing saga. Mohammad Irfan and Mohammad Nawaz were also banned, for the relatively

lesser indiscretions of failure to report corrupt approaches.

Both have since returned to domestic cricket.

A veteran on the domestic circuit – Latif made his debut 17 years ago when he was still 14 – he has never quite been able to make the grade at international level. He was a rising star on the U-19 circuit, captaining the Pakistan side to a World Cup win in 2004.

He was called up to the ODI side in 2008, but played just five games over two years. He hasn’t been able to find much more consistency in T20Is, playing 13 over an eight-year period, the last against the West Indies in a home series in 2016. This ban, should it not be reduced or overturned in the event of an appeal, would almost certainly spell the end of Latif’s international days, and given his age - Latif will be 36 when the ban ends - make even returning to the domestic circuit a daunting challenge. (ESPN Cricinfo)

19

Sampson

SACKED

as England women’s manager

M

Mark Sampson

ark Sampson has been sacked as England women’s manager following evidence of “inappropriate and unacceptable” behaviour with female players in a previous role.

The Football Association says that last week it was made aware of the full details of safeguarding allegations made against Sampson in 2014 relating to his time as Bristol Academy manager. But a 2015 FA assessment found Sampson did not pose a risk.

Sampson was also cleared this year of wrongdoing following discrimination allegations made by England players, including Chelsea and England striker Eniola Aluko.

The 34-year-old Welshman became England head coach in December 2013 after leaving topflight side Bristol Academy, now renamed Bristol City Women.

The FA statement said: “The full report of that [2014] investigation was only brought to the attention of the current FA leadership last week.

“It is our judgement that it revealed clear evidence of inappropriate and unacceptable behaviour by a coach.

It is on this basis that we have acted quickly to agree

a termination of Mark’s contract.”

A spokesman for Bristol Academy said: “In 2014 the club was made aware of the FA’s investigation into allegations surrounding Mark Sampson.

“Bristol Academy Women co-operated fully with that investigation, which found that Mark Sampson did not pose a safeguarding risk working in the game. The club has had no further contact from the FA on this subject in the intervening years.”

Minister for Sport Tracey Crouch said: “This situation is a mess and raises very serious questions about whether the historic processes that the FA had in place around the recruitment of coaches were appropriate, for something like this to have been missed.

“The FA are right to have taken action but reassurance is needed to make sure this does not happen again at any level of coaching.”

Sampson’s England side beat Russia 6-0 in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday and he led the Lionesses to successive semi-finals at major tournaments.

Last year Sampson signed a new contract to remain in charge until 2019.

He has had his contract paid up in full by the FA. (BBC Sport)

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

thursDAY, september 21, 2017

BRATHWAITE

President’s College blessed

given GREEN

with football gear from GFF

LIGHT

to bowl

T

he bowling action of West Indies opener Kraigg Brathwaite has been cleared by the International Cricket Council, following an independent assessment at the Loughborough testing centre in England on August 31.

The ICC confirmed in its release that the elbow extension in all the deliveries of Brathwaite, who bowls part-time offspin, was well inside the 15-degree permissible limit under the governing body’s regulations.

Brathwaite was reported for a suspect action at the end of West Indies’ first Test against England at Edgbaston last month. Brathwaite has taken 12 wickets in his 40-Test career, but is more important to the West Indies side for his role at the top of the order. Brathwaite has 2598 runs at an average of 36.59, including six centuries and a best of 212. (ESPN Cricinfo)

GFF’s Development Officer Bryan Joseph presents equipment to President’s College Physical Education Teacher Wilson Cameron

T

he Guyana Football Federation (GFF) presented football equipment to President’s College which are geared towards the development of a football programme within the school.

This presentation was made on Wednesday, 20th September at the school to the Physical Education Teacher Willon Cameron by Bryan Joseph, GFF’s Youth Development Officer (YDO).

The presentation consisted seven footballs, 16 bibs and 20 flat markers and was made to the project facilitated by the school’s Alumni.

In presenting the items, Joseph expressed delight for the partnership with the President’s College Alumni: “The Technical Department of the GFF is very happy to partner with President’s

College Alumni. We’re excited because a school has actually come forward and asked for support. Our system is set up in such a way that we have the expertise to provide support to schools and organizations so we’re happy that the alumni has come forward.”

Cameron said the school was eager for the partnership: “This is a very excellent project which, by extension, will assist the country’s football programme overall. So to have the Federation onboard really gives me great excitement to know that we have the support coming all the way from the top and I guarantee you that President’s College Football Club will take another step to a higher level with all the support we have.”

Jafar Gibbons, member of the Alumni with responsibility for sport, said the alumni is focusing on sport development in the school in a systematic way.

In wrapping up Joseph said that the GFF is interested in building capacity for long-term football development: “We hope this donation will start a partnership between President’s College and the GFF. There is much more that we have to offer; we have coaching expertise, we have the equipment, we have programmes and those are available to the school.

Obviously, we’ll like to see more schools coming forward and making requests to partner with the GFF. There’s a heavy focus at the Federation on youth development and what better

Proteas bowling crisis

place to have that development than in schools. We’ve heard for years about the education system not focusing on co-curricular activities, which include sport and this setup by the President’s College Alumni is a step in the right direction and, like I said earlier, I hope that more schools will actually tap into the resources that are available at the Football Federation,” Joseph added.

The alumni, which is headed by Damien Sears, is scheduled to begin the project on Sunday September 24 at the Golden Grove Community Cenbtre Ground from 09:30h. The alumni have earmarked three coaches who will provide the technical guidance to the students – Gordon Braithwaite, Trevor Burnett and Sheron Abrams.

MS Dhoni

nominated for Padma Bhushan

bothers new coach N ewly appointed South Africa coach Ottis Gibson has pointed to the country’s issues in the bowling department as one of his immediate concerns.

Ahead of his first series in charge against Bangladesh Gibson was greeted by the news that bowler Chris Morris will miss the series through injury. The latest casualty added to the unavailability of Dale Steyn, and Vernon Philander and Lungi Ngidi.

Gibson, the former England bowling

coach, pointed to the issue as one if immediate concern despite the team being favorites to get past Bangladesh.

“The most crucial for me is four quality fast bowlers being injured.

That’s a problem straight away,” Gibson told members of the media in a press conference on Tuesday.

“To win Test matches you need to take 20 wickets and having your best four fast bowlers fit and ready gives you a chance to do that.”

The former West Indies allrounder also expressed an

Newly appointed South Africa Coach Ottis Gibson

unwillingness to take the Asian team lightly.

“I don t want to get into any thinking that Bangladesh is an easy series.”

Gibson pointed to the fact that as England’s bowling coach he had been on the receiving end when Bangladesh beat England during a shared series last year.

“They’re going to be tough,” said Gibson. “That is why I said, let us get everyone playing. We haven t played a lot of cricket since the Tests in England in August and we need to make sure we’re up to speed.

The first match in the two-match Test series bowls off on September 28 at Senwes Park, Potchefstroom. (Sportsmax)

Experienced fast bowlers Dale Steyn (left) and Vernon Philander are sidelined through injuries

T

MS Dhoni, also called “Captain Cool” is regarded as one of India’s most successful captains

he BCCI has nominated MS Dhoni for the Padma Bhushan, the country’s third-highest civilian award, PTI has reported.

“Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been nominated by the BCCI for the Padma Bhushan award,” said BCCI’s acting president CK Khanna. “It was a unanimous decision by the members. He has been one of the greatest names in contemporary cricket and the most appropriate choice of the Indian cricket board.”

Dhoni could become the 11th cricketer to receive the award, after Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul

Dravid, Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar, Chandu Borde, Lala Amarnath, Prof DB Deodhar, Col CK Nayudu, Raja Bhalindra Singh and Maharajah of Vizianagram (Vizzy).

Dhoni has been one of India’s most successful captains, having led them to victory in the 2007 World T20, the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy. He has 10,949 runs from 380 matches in ODIs and T20Is, and 4876 runs from 90 Test matches. He also became the first wicketkeeper to affect 100 ODI stumpings, during the series against Sri Lanka this month. (ESPN Cricinfo)

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sports

Associations will be responsible for athletes after ‘Nationals’

By Michelangelo Jacobus

A

fter the 56th National Schools’ Cycling, Swimming and Track and Field Championships last year, a list of 37 track and field athletes were chosen by then commissioner on the National Sports Commission (NSC) board, Edison Jefford and submitted to the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG).

The purpose of that list was to ensure that those selected were included in national camps and trials for championships at home and abroad.

Among those athletes were Compton Caesar, Daniel Williams and Kenisha Phillips just to name a few. Since then, the trio has gone on to reap significant success locally and on the international stage with Caesar copping 100 metre Gold at CARIFTA games and the South American U-20 Championships which was held in Guyana earlier this year.

Williams has also claimed success and international acclaim winning 400 metre silver at the World Youth Championships in Nairobi, Kenya while Phillips has performed admirably as well.

Guyana Times Sport

Daniel Williams won Guyana’s second-ever World Youth Championships’ silver medal

spoke with Director of Sport Christopher Jones on Tuesday, who gave all assurance that the trend of outstanding student/athlete selection is set to continue at this year’s Championship (also called ‘Nationals’) however, the list will be adjusted to

accommodate athletes from swimming and cycling.

Those athletes that will be identified this year will again be submitted to their ‘parent associations’ with the aim of being included in national camps and trials for upcoming championships.

World Rugby to subsidise airfare for Olympic Qualifier – GRFU inviting U-19 players to register

21

Director of Sport, Christopher Jones

However, this time around Jones warned; “the National Sports Commission will be scrutinizing the respective associations’ selection ahead of championships/meets and if any of those selected athletes are excluded, the association responsible for those specific athletes will have to provide a very feasible reason for their exclusion before funds are granted or approved for the association.

It will be used as a sort of check and balance by the Commission.”

In June of this year, this publication had a sit down with Jones who had revealed the NSC’s plan for implementing a nationwide plan for the development of young sportsmen and women throughout the 15 districts of the country where coaches and organizers residing in those particular districts would work in a cluster system.

That plan which is set to be established in 2018 was submitted to the Minister of Education Nicolette Henry who was at the time responsible for the Department of Youth, Culture and Sport; however that department has now been reassigned to Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton.

Director Jones contended that while detailed surveys that are vital to the developmental plan have been done nationwide, he will now have to meet with Minister Norton to address the policy.

The development of sport in the hinterland regions is among Minister Norton’s first area of focus and the NSC’s plan will no doubt be of interest since it not only addresses mainstream sport disciplines but also seeks to implement disciplines that can be facilitated in some of those regions’ geographical layout.

Notably, archery and kayaking are two disciplines that are earmarked by the commission for implementation.

It remains to be seen if this plan will be successfully injected into Guyana’s sport stream and maintained but if it succeeds then the future of sport in the country is in good hands.

Kudos must be given to the NSC for their initiative of ensuring athletes at the school level are now being given a chance to develop and represent their nation and as has been exemplified by Daniel Williams and Compton Caesar, Guyana can only stand to benefit from their development and success.

CONFIDENT DARTS TEAM

depart for Brazilian test

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The eyes of the Rugby Union are now fixed on the future of the sport

R

uby Americas North (RAN) and World Rugby have taken the decision of assisting Caribbean Teams with 50% of their airfare to participate in the qualifying sevens tournament set for April 2018 in Las Vegas USA for a place in the finals of the Youth Olympic Games in Argentina in November 2018.

In a release on Wednesday, the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) were quoted as saying, “GRFU is therefore inviting the players whom are born during the period of January 2000 to December 2001 to register with the union with a view to being selected to the National Team.”

With the age group being 17 to 18 years of age, the union is hopes to attract more students to the exciting sport and more so encourage them to engage Rugby which is an option in the

Physical Education and Sport syllabus (Effective for examinations from May, June 2014).

Guyana’s Green Machine has been a dominant force in the sevens version of the sport with most or all of its players coming from the Under 19 school programmes. It’s Under 19s in March this year defeating a Stage Cayennaise Mixed Team 21-19 in French Guiana.

Since the debut of Rugby Sevens to the Olympics in Rio last year, greater emphasis has been placed on marketing the seven aside version of the Rugby as an Olympic sport with the International Olympic Committee’s decision to retain all 28 sports that featured at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games programme.

A

From lef: David Dharamraj, Dr Terrance Joseph, Lallchand Rambharose, Luiz Miguel Ramierz-Merlano, Victorine Chandro, Sudesh Fitzgerald and GDA President Sheik Yassen

five-member team comprising national champion Sudesh Fitzgerald, Luiz Miguel RamierzMerlano, Lallchand Rambharose, Terrence Joseph and Victorine Chandro departed Guyana on Wednesday for neighbouring Brazil where they will compete in the Professional Darts Corporation World Championship Qualifier for Central Caribbean and South America.

The players are aiming for places in the William Hill World Darts Championship set for December in London.

President of the Guyana Darts Association, Sheik Yassen wished the team well on their journey and urged them to perform to their best given the stakes on offer.

Fitzgerald won the Caribbean and South American Masters in 2008 which qualified him to represent Guyana at the

PDC World Darts Championship, held in London in 2009.

He felt that as a team, they stand a good chance of producing a strong showing and possibly winning the tournament.

In 2008, he reached the semi-finals in the World Darts Federation Americas Cup singles. The former Caribbean champion explained that they were conducted intense training sessions at the Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) and moved to different venues as a way of learning to perform at an optimum given that they are unaware of what to expect in Brazil.

The team will also have the presence of David Dharamraj, who is a strong supporter of the sport. The three-day tournament will be held at the Girasol Plaza Hotel and begins on September 22.

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GUYANATIMESgy.COM

thursDAY, september 21, 2017

Singh aiming for another splendid series against Sri Lanka “A”

…Test experience is an asset

By Akeem Greene

“M

y personal goal is to get back to scoring heavy runs. I would love to equal

Jaguars at the Everest Cricket Club.

The left-handed batsman is currently preparing for another stint with the West Indies ‘A’ team in a home se-

staggering 64.80 after the tour.

His aggregate was the highest for both teams and it certainly laid the platform for his elevation to the

After a quiet series against Pakistan Singh knows the importance of having an impressive outing against the visiting Sri Lanka "A"

or better my record against Sri Lanka where I scored over 300 runs,” Vishaul Singh stated in an interview with Guyana Times Sport on Wednesday after a training session with the Guyana

ries against Sri Lanka “A”.

When the two sides last met in October 2016, the pintsixed Singh weighed in with 324 runs in the three-match series including a high score of 161. His average was a

senior West Indies team for the Test series at home against Pakistan in April this year.

However, in the Test series, the compact lefthander only mustered 63

runs from the three matches. Admitting, by his standards, it was a disappointing debut series statistically but he was still adamant that it was a valuable learning experience.

“For me it was a fantastic experience being around the coaching staff and the players. Unfortunately for me it was not successful but I came back with a lot of knowledge. I know I had a lot of things to work on which I have been doing so far and I [am] hoping to put that in place in the series against Sri Lanka.”

Though diminutive in size, Singh has appetite for big runs as was testimony during the 2015/2016 Regional when he racked up the runs, finishing third on the batting charts with 712 runs at an average of 50.85. over the period, he struck three centuries with a high score of 150.

Those stats and his form on the tour to Sri Lanka laid the platform for him receiving his maroon cap but it also highlighted some possible technical flaws given that several of his dismals were identical against a world-class Pakistani bowling attack.

“Looking back I didn’t think there was a lot of technical issues. With respect to falling over that might be a bit of technical issue but

I don’t think that was prevalent in the series.

There was a lot more talk about getting out,” the 28 year-old contended.

T h e

Georgetown Cricket Club player added, “Looking back, that was not my game. that is not my technique, that is not how I play but there are worse things that came out from that tour that I have been working on.”

West Indies senior team has come under tremendous criticism over the years due to their underperformance.

The critiques have bashed from players to coaches but for Singh, his love for the sport keeps him focused on his goal ahead.

Fitness is another crucial area that the Alexander Village-born player plans to improve especially given the

intended heavy workload.

“I am ready, trying to get my body back to full fitness. I’m try to get there every day to cope with all the cricket that is coming for Guyana and West Indies.”

Furthermore, the Windies “A” team vice-captain expressed confidence that his troops will be able to change the 2-1 series result in their favour on this tour.

The two sides will clash in three unofficial Test matches from October 11 to 29 with all the games scheduled for Jamaica at the Trelawny Multiplex and Sabina Park. There will also be three one day matches between November 1-5, also in Jamaica.

The Windies “A” Team squad for the first two ‘fourday Tests’ reads: Shamarh Brooks (Captain), Vishaul Singh (Vice-Captain), Sunil Ambris, John Campbell, Yannic Cariah, Rahkeem Cornwall, Sheldon Cottrell, Jahmar Hamilton, Montcin Hodge, Damion Jacobs, Keon Joseph, Reynard Leveridge and Oshane Thomas.

Region Six Secondary School Volleyball Championship

Central Corentyne advance to finals

C

Winning Central Corentyne males pose with their spoils

entral Corentyne continued their dominance in the ongoing Region Six Secondary school interzone volleyball tournament played

throughout Berbice.

After dominating both the boys and girls category in the opening stages of the tourney, Central Corentyne boys team

The victorious Central Corentyne females

then disposed of Black Bush Secondary, winning in straight sets - 25-7 and 25-8.

Meanwhile, in the girls’ category, the Corentyne young ladies defeated

Manchester Secondary 30-16 in their single set played.

With the initial stages over, attention will now turn to the aforementioned

four teams who have qualified for the finals which will be held at the Port Mourant’s outdoor court at a date to be announced soon.

guyanatimesgy.com

thursDAY, september 21, 2017

23

England vs West Indies Royal London ODI Series…

Marlon Samuels was criticised for having too many dot balls in the first ODI

D

looking to level series

espite W e s t Indies' well-documented woes in recent years, it's still pretty shocking to consider that one of the most storied teams in the sport - the winners of the first two World Cups in 1975 and 1979 - are now in serious danger of missing out on qualification for the 2019 event.

Defeat at Old Trafford confirmed that they can no longer overhaul Sri Lanka as the eighth automatic pick. For today’s second ODI, the Caribbean side will have to forget about world cup chances and focus on the task at hand – levelling the series.

In the opening

match, it was a listless display from West Indies - notwithstanding some lusty early blows from the returning Chris Gayle, who marked his first ODI appearance since the 2015 World Cup with 37 from 27 balls.

Worryingly, the energy of their victory in the one-off T20 in Durham had dissipated entirely by the end of the contest, which might well have been wrapped up with more than 11.1 overs to spare had Ben Stokes not been reining himself in to ensure that Jonny Bairstow had time to rack up his maiden ODI century.

Marlon Samuels, another of West Indies' returning grandees, was especially culpable in sucking all momentum from the middle of their innings - his 17 from 46 balls contained no boundaries and a wasteful 31 dot balls, stats that sum up the fundamental difference between the approaches of the two sides. Joe Root, to name just the most obvious contrast, failed to score from just 17 balls in a similar-length innings, including his first three sighters, en route to 54 from 53 balls.

England's performance wasn't entirely without fault. They were at times spectacular in the field, but a bad miss from Root at slip off Gayle might have been more fiercely punished on another day. And, for all that he enjoyed a fine day with the ball, to follow up his six-wicket heroics in the Lord's Test, Stokes suffered a Kolkata redux moment at the death, when a more zealous umpire

might have expelled him from the attack for two beamers in a final over that went for 15 runs.

West Indies started the series needing a whitewash to secure their World Cup qualification. On the evidence of one match, the one-way traffic is more likely to head in the other direction.

Today’s venue, Trent Bridge has been one of the grandstand venues for 50-over cricket in recent times, with Nottinghamshire habitually racking up totals in excess of 400.

But, all eyes on Thursday are likely to be on the heavens, with a dismal autumnal deluge pencilled in from about 12pm to 7pm.

A rain-reduced wallop in the early evening, perhaps? West Indies might not complain if that's the case. The shorter the game, the more their power-hitters come into play.

No real need for England to make any changes to a winning line-up, although the temptation to blood Tom Curran must be growing. David Willey's left-arm attack is valued for its variety but he remains slightly anonymous once the initial new-ball swing has worn off.

No specific shortcomings in West Indies' side, just a collective malfunction to correct.

After picking two spinners for the more receptive surface at Old Trafford, there may be a temptation to trade one of them, probably Devendra Bishoo, for an extra quick. Alzarri Joseph and Miguel Cummins are on standby.

Eoin Morgan

England squad; Eion Morgan (captain), Alex Hales, Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, David Willey, Jos Buttler (wk), Moeen Ali, Adil Rashid, Tom Curran, Jake Ball and Liam Plunkett West Indies squad; Jason Holder (Captain), Jason Mohammed (Vice Captain), Sunil Ambris, Devendra Bishoo, Miguel Cummins, Chris Gayle, Kyle Hope, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Ashley Nurse, Rovman Powell, Marlon Samuels, Jerome Taylor and Kesrick Williams. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Crandon working to strengthen winning unit A

Guyana Jaguars Head Coach Esuan Crandon speaking about the upcoming R4D season

head of next month’s Cricket West Indies Regional 4-Day tournament, Guyana Jaguars Head Coach Esuan Crandon said the three-time defending champs are not relying on their track record; rather they’re looking to further improve as a playing unit.

Guyana Times Sport caught up with the exGuyana pacer turned coach on Wednesday at the Everest Ground where the latter along with assistant coaches Rayon Griffith and Clive Grimmond were conducting a number of exercises with senior members of the team and some of the academy players.

Following the conclusion of what seemed like a rigorous morning of training consisting of series of ground-fielding drills, slip catching among other routine exercises, Crandon during an interview admitted that he was pretty impressed with the attitude and drive shown by the players.

“Preparations have been going on for a while, since last season we had a month off and we started our preparation soon after and we have been training ever since. The thing I loved was the attitude from the guys because they were willing and eager to work hard with whatever we set out to do, we went through it professionally and they did it with purpose and good intent so I’m satisfied with but there’s always room to improve,” said Crandon.

Despite the reigning champs going through grueling periods of encampment over the past four seasons, the coach believed that they were on the right path as they are continuously looking to practice the fundamentals of the sport.

“We’re trying to instill in them the basics and have them practice it daily because we always have room for improvement and we’re in a good mind set so it’s just about

Some of the players going through their slip catching drills with Coach Crandon on Wednesday at Everest

us keeping up the work as time progresses”, explained the Coach.

With a wealth of experience in the camp, Guyana are well poised to successfully defend their title come this season and will rely heavily on their senior crop of players such as; skipper Leon Johnson, Vishaul Singh, Raymon Reifer, Veerasammy Permaul, Rajendra Chandrika and others who have all represented the West Indies at one level or the other.

However, Crandon pointed out that while his senior guys are the ones who the onus is usually left with, he wants to continue to blood his team with younger players who deserve a chance and could equally support their more experienced teammates if selected.

“It’s always good to give the young guys an opportunity and most of them did well in the recent U19 and they were rewarded with academy

contracts. We also have the 3-Day League which has given us the opportunity to see a wider base of players and a few we haven’t seen in a while,” he noted.

Crandon concluded his interview by highlighting the importance of attitude and drive as crucial areas for success. “It’s always important for players to show the right attitude because the achievements of the past few years have gone so we have

to look to keep playing better cricket now.”

He continued, “We’re always looking to bring in young guys to learn from the senior guys, because guys like Shiv (Chanderpaul), Johnson, Vishaul and Permaul are senior guys who have been doing the bulk of work over the years while the younger guys are chipping in, we don’t want to push the youngsters in without anyone to learn from”. He ended.

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

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

England vs West Indies Royal London ODI Series…

looking to level series Pg 22

West Indies who had little to celebrate at Old Trafford must bring their ‘A-Game’ today at Trent Bridge

E

ducation Minister Nicolette Henry on Wednesday, September 20, 2017 was handed a commemorative cricket bat from the Team Operations Manager of the Guyana Amazon Warriors, Omar Khan. It bears the signatures of all the players who represented the Amazon Warriors during the Caribbean Premier League 2017 tournament.

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