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Issue No. 2825

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Wednesday, April 13, 2016

AFC’s chairmanship had become difficult – Nigel Hughes speaks out Page 17

DDL gets $3.8B tax write-off from GRA Page 3

Several injured as Route 42 bus topples Page 9

- to pay $1.5B in settlement

PPP/C protests Bulkan’s “unlawful” selection of Mayor, NDC heads Page 7

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Policeman lost tooth P8 during attempt to arrest suspect – court told Tobacco P2 legislation to be tabled soon – Dr Cummings

No immediate plans for defence P2 vessel purchase – President

Caribbean P14 Airlines announces US$5 increase on 2nd checked bag Despite the heavy downpours, scores of supporters of the Opposition on Tuesday staged a peaceful picketing exercise outside the Ministry of the Presidency over the “unlawful” appointment of Government Councillors to head six Local Authority Areas where there was a tie after Local Government Elections

International review of local audits

AFC’s calls are “nonsensical”

Page 9

– Ramon Gaskin

Special investigative unit in the pipeline – ACP Ramnarine Page 5

DNA results ready for murdered British teen – 3 murder accused granted bail

Page 17

Enmore teen missing P12 – last seen at school gate

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wednesDAY, APRIL 13, 2016 | guyana-times.com

No immediate plans for defence vessel purchase – President W

hile Government has not ruled out purchasing a vessel for defence purposes, it has made it clear that there were no immediate plans to make such an acquisition.

This pronouncement was made by President David Granger on Monday.

In light of the recent visit of the British naval vessel HMS Mersey to Port Georgetown, the Head of State was asked whether Government was moving to acquire the vessel. Granger denied any such plans.

“There is no plan, there is no intention, there has been no prospect, and there has been no consideration. I heard it mentioned, but we have not entered into any negotiations. The acquisition of a vessel is a technical matter and I wouldn’t move without advice,” he declared.

However, the President

President David Granger engaging officials of British naval vessel HMS Mersey

noted that while there was no such move at present, it was something that Government would not rule out. He added that there were certain factors that needed to be taken into consideration such as identifying the country’s defence needs in order to determine

whether such a vessel satisfied them.

“Right now we are looking at fishery protection; we are looking at the protection of the petroleum exploration platforms in our EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone), and we are looking at a vessel which has the speed

and also has the firepower to chase away intruders,” Granger stated.

On this note, the Guyanese Head of State pointed out that the British vessel was one that basically provided relief during disasters, and hence would not be suitable for Guyana’s

needs.

“You got to define your needs first before you start looking for the vessel or else you would end up with a lemon,” he remarked.

The President further revealed to reporters that Government has already identified the country’s needs in terms of a defence vessel, but has not allocated any monies in this financial year to make such an acquisition.

Two weeks ago, the HMS Mersey arrived at Port Georgetown as the United Kingdom sought to strengthen cooperation with the Caribbean in order to boost regional security. During a tour of the vessel, President Granger said Guyana was keen on interdicting narcotics entering and leaving Guyana, an area the Royal Navy has particular interest in in the Caribbean.

“We cannot (fight narcotics trade) on our own; we cannot protect our borders on our own; we cannot prevent traffickers from bringing narcotics, particularly cocaine, into our country on our own. We depend on countries with technology, particularly the United States and also the United Kingdom,” he stated.

According to the President, Guyana is a known transit point in the global drug trade as narcotics are brought here to be shipped off to other markets around the world. As such, it was important to forge relations with the UK and the US since the most lucrative narcotics markets are in Europe and North America.

“In that regard, we felt the Royal Navy might help us to stop this narco-trafficking,” the President had remarked.

Tobacco legislation to be tabled soon - Dr Cummings

M

inister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr Karen Cummings has outlined that Government planned to pass legislation altering the use of tobacco in the country.

According to Dr Cummings, Government will be embarking on a number of initiatives with the aim of promoting a healthier Guyana and improving the productivity of its people.

She said during the recently-held Unicomer health fair and expo that the tabling of the tobacco legislation was high on Government’s agenda.

Last year, the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) made calls for Guyana to pass tobacco control legislation, citing it as a top priority.

According to PAHO, each year, tobacco kills six million people: 5.4 million active smokers and 600,000 non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke. It is the single legal consumer product that kills up to half of

its users when used exactly as intended by the manufacturer, costing the global economy an estimated US$200 billion each year.

The Health Organisation had posited that the legislation was intended to protect present and future generations from the “devastating harms” of tobacco use, exposure to tobacco smoke and specifically to prevent tobacco use among youths. The legislation would also seek to ensure that the public is protected from the commercial and other vested interests of the tobacco industry, while preventing the illicit trade in tobacco products. turn to page 8

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wednesDAY, APRIL 13, 2016 | guyana-times.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, April 13 – 09:30h-11:00h and Thursday, April 14 – 10:30h-12:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, April 13 – 08:25h- 09:55h and Thursday, April 14 – 09:35h-11:05h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

DDL gets $3.8B tax write-off from GRA – to pay $1.5B in settlement

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery to light rain showers can be expected in the morning, while heavy to light rain showers can be expected in the afternoon. Thundery showers are expected to return in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.47 metres per second.

High Tide: 08:47h and 21:32h reaching maximum heights of 2.37 metres and 2.20 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 02:19h and 14:56h reaching minimum heights of 0.93 metre and 0.86 metre respectively.

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Saturday, April 9, 2016

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FREE TICKET

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016

Daily Millions

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

emerara Distillers Limited (DDL) has announced that an amicable settlement has been reached with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to resolve a long standing dispute over Consumption Tax that began in 2002.

This settlement follows an extended legal battle between DDL and the GRA arising out of the Consumption Tax assessment levied against DDL by then Commissioner General Khurshid Sattaur in January, 2009, in the sum of $5,392,020,753 (five billion, three hundred and ninety-two million, twenty thousand, seven hundred and fifty-three dollars).

This assessment was challenged in the High Court

by DDL. DDL and the GRA were able to recommence negotiations for a resolution of the methodology for a calculation of Consumption Tax (and its successor, Excise Tax), and have now been able to arrive at consensus

methodology adopted by the latter for the assessment of Consumption Tax. In February 2005, the High Court found in favour of DDL. The GRA subsequently appealed that decision and on July 31, 2008, the Guyana Court of Appeal unanimously dismissed the GRA’s Appeal.

Following the dismissal of the appeal, the GRA commenced a new assessment in August 2008 and,

amount of G$5.392 billion.

On DDL’s application in 2009, the High Court issued an Order Nisi pending the hearing of the matter.

DDL Chairman Komal Samaroo said “DDL was always committed to a resolution of the matter with the GRA despite the many failed attempts at settlement.” The Chairman added that “DDL was pleased with the enlightened ap-

notwithstanding attempts by the parties at resolving the matter on January 16, 2009, the GRA issued a new claim in the crippling

proach adopted by the GRA in December 2015 which recently culminated in the settlement of the matter between the parties.”

DDL Chairman Komal Samaroo

to fully and finally settle all claims by the GRA and liability by DDL for both Consumption and Excise tax up to March 9, 2016 in the sum of $1,500,000,000 (one billion, five hundred million dollars). This sum is payable over 12 months.

DDL, in good faith, very recently effected payment of $100,000,000 (one hundred million) in compliance with the settlement terms.

In 2002, DDL had raised a legal challenge against the GRA on the

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wednesDAY, APRIL 13, 2016

Views General Editor: Michael Younge News Hotliine: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707

Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Why no audit of City Council?

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evere pressure has been mounting from various sections of society for the A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government to launch a forensic probe into the operations of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC). At least one top official from the newly-installed Council, Deputy Mayor Sherod Duncan, has already expressed his desire to see a forensic audit carried out into the operations of the body saying that it was necessary for such a move.

Over the past few months, there have been several letter writers, commentators and politicians calling for the Government to carry out the audit in the interest of ensuring transparency and accountability in relation to the operations of the Council. However, so far the Government has not budged; in fact, the President and his Communities Minister have largely remained silent on the issue.

The Administration cannot simply dismiss these concerns or provide excuses as to why a forensic audit cannot be carried out. Not only is this unacceptable but it raises questions as to whether the Government is really serious about addressing corruption on all fronts. It could be recalled that while on the campaign trail, APNU/AFC made several promises to ensure there were transparency and accountability at every level of governance.

Further, many are of the view that given the Government’s keen interest in carrying out forensic audits into several State agencies regarding their operation, more particularly during the tenure of the previous Administration, and considering the many public calls for transparency and accountability in every sector, the Georgetown City Council should by all means be included in the audits.

Not so long ago, in collaboration with the M&CC, the APNU/AFC Government had embarked on a massive citywide cleanup campaign in Georgetown and its environs. While these efforts produced fairly good results regarding the general appearance of the city and its environs, the political Opposition and other stakeholders have raised questions in relation to the contracts awarded to carry out the works, as the perception is that friends and party supporters were the main beneficiaries.

To date, the relevant officials have not been very forthcoming regarding questions from the media in relation to the sums expended and the beneficiaries of the contracts.

Also, the mere fact that millions of taxpayers’ dollars are regularly used to bail out the city from its financial woes is another reason for the Administration to act in the public’s interest. The Government certainly cannot keep pumping tax dollars into the operations of City Hall without putting the necessary safeguards in place to ensure that public monies are accounted for.

We had stated before that there is much to be explained by past officials who were tasked with managing the affairs of the Council. For example, it is believed that millions of dollars in taxes for certain individuals were written off by the previous Council. There are also claims being made of breaches of the environmental and city bylaws resulting in serious drainage, sewerage and parking problems; the failure of the City Treasurer to collect millions of dollars in outstanding taxes; and the feckless overstaffing among other issues.

One letter writer has stated that the need for a forensic audit has never been greater and must be the first order of business of the new Council with the findings being made public, which will undoubtedly identify many instances in which that entity has violated the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act of Guyana. The audit must, first of all, seek to examine the tax collecting system to determine if the allegations of dishonesty, deficiency, and discrepancies have any merit.

The citizens of Georgetown are anxious to know the truth about the financial operations, alleged mismanagement and excesses that may have taken place at City Hall during the previous leadership.

The Government must act in the interest of the citizens and move on with the forensic audit. Failure to do so would give substance to the many criticisms being levelled against the Government that it is very selective in the manner in which it addresses issues of transparency and accountability.

Britain's Prince William and his wife, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, float flowers at the Banganga Water Tank in Mumbai, India on Sunday (Reuters)

Add up the new taxes: VAT might as well be raised to 18%

Dear Editor, On both sides of the aisle we heard the promises of the coalition. Lots have been said over the last year on failed promises. I do not believe there were any surprises when we woke up in 2016 and realised we had become a nation where the Government, with zero new initiatives on how to make money, reverted to asking the citizens to pay up more so they can spend on areas that contribute little to the growth of our economy.

We all realised how low it has reached, when a donkey cart owner has to pay more to earn a decent living. It has become evident that among the reasons for this dire state of affairs are the lack of projects, lack of policy initiatives, lack of confidence from the investment community – so the financial burden falls on the ordinary citizen – from gun licences to 140 other taxes – they all just went up.

Do any polling in Guyana at this point, and I will wager that a large majority of our population will conclude that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) had a much better handle on the economy.

Risk-taking and new initiatives had been evident for decades. Since taking office, none of the large projects that would have seen our nation

jump the curve to the next level has continued. I guarantee by now, we would have started the bridge to Suriname, paving of the road to Brazil, and driving alternative energy so the manufacturing sector can finally have a chance to demonstrate our competitiveness.

None has happened. No new initiatives – name one, oh yes, building out Durban Park in order to bring their own supporters and claim nationalism and patriotism for the 50th anniversary. I have always been a nationalist, flying the flag, wearing the flag on lapel, contributing to the development of our nation and much more, but what I have seen and what we will see over the next few months is not nationalism but simply someone who wants to walk past a military guard and one sided supporters in order to feel larger than life, a good example is the lavish presidential motorcade.

I remember seeing former President Jagdeo many times around town with basic security. Today, an entire block or building is shut down if the President is visiting the area.

We might as well be living in North Korea.

This is the single more important factor for a nation to move forward. The PPP had it at an all-time high, this has been squashed. Look around

you, the housing market is down, businesses are struggling to meet basic profits needs, individuals are complaining about more taxes, pensioners now paying more and the list goes on.

The PPP/C did what most Governments needed to do to radically improve their economy. Without risks, some projects may never be realised. What is it that this Administration does not understand? They have to stop allowing ‘one man’ consultants who could not survive in the US or other progressive countries to come back and advise them. They are coming in hordes looking ‘fo wuk’. Just hang around Pegasus or ride in few taxis and you will hear the stories.

I spoke to many this week who were supporters of the so called “Change” and the overwhelming conclusions is that the Administration has no clue on running the business of the country. They are good though at military parades, pomp and ceremony but out of their depth where it really matters – managing the economy.

The PPP/C continues to demonstrate how their previous initiatives and transformation projects must be implemented in order for our nation’s economy to have a

chance to succeed. The supposedly better life we are having now is a throwback to the 80s.

Someone asked me if I am celebrating our independence, mindful as to how the current Government has alienated and divided the nation. My answer was no. I will raise my own flag, I will respect our institution and our nation and what we as a people have overcome and accomplished.

That will be my commitment to our 50th; not wasting precious tax payers’ money building Durban park, when for a little of the funds expended, we could have upgraded our National Park and added a few more stands. Stop with the increases in taxes. Sad to say, if we combined all of the new taxes, VAT is now at about 18 per cent, we are lead to ask where is the promise to cut?

The PPP must and needs to regain power in 2020, but in the meantime, their contributions to providing solutions continue in Parliament.

They are not a “critical only” Opposition but on every issue, has provided concrete solutions which, if implemented, could result in significant benefits to all of Guyana.

Sincerely, Dr Peter R Ramsaroop, MBA

Questionable appointments by Minister of Communities Dear Editor, The A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government appointed a number of questionable persons to be Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) chairpersons and deputy chairpersons in Region Five.

A government that campaigned on corruption and democracy has lost its voice on corruption. After the recently-held Local Government Elections, two NDCs in Region Five were tied in terms of seats won.

The Minister of Communities in his undemocratic style appointed two questionable persons as chairperson and deputy chairperson.

The chairperson that was appointed at Bel Air/

Woodlands NDC by the Minister of Communities was a former overseer of the said NDC. There was a high level of dishonesty during that period the person served as overseer of the said NDC. There were two receipt books at the NDC: One was the NDC book and the other one was the former overseer’s personal receipt book. Rates and taxes collected from residents used to be written in the former overseer’s personal receipt book. Many residents who paid their taxes during that period, their information could not have been entered in the assignment register of the NDC. The then Ministry of Local Government and the Auditor General carried out an audit of the NDC, and the former

overseer was found culpable.

The former overseer was dismissed by the then Ministry of Local Government.

The matter was taken to the courts. Presently, the financial statement of Bel Air/ Woodlands NDC can be balanced, because of corrupted translations carried out by the former overseer.

It is a shame of the APNU/ AFC Government to appoint that said individual to that NDC. The second undemocratic appointment made by the Minister of Communities was to appoint a former employee of the Guyana Post Office.

This person was appointed as deputy chairperson of the Woodlands/Farm NDC. This person was dismissed

by the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) for fraud at the Mahaicony Post Office: it was discovered a few years ago that millions in pension monies went missing at the Mahaicony Post Office.

As soon as the APNU/ AFC Government took office, the person was employed as a cook at the Mahaicony Hospital and now appointed deputy chairperson of Woodlands/Farm NDC by the Minister of Communities.

This kind of behaviour of the Government is making society lose confidence in the decisions that are being made. I want to urge the Minster of Communities to rethink these decisions.

Regards, Concerned resident

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wednesDAY, APRIL 13, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

4-vehicle smash-up Sparman dodges question on causes traffic jam Fire Advisory Board status – no serious injuries CoI into deadly prison riot

Officer in Charge of Operations Compton Sparman continued his testimony at Tuesday’s CoI

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he Fire Service’s implementation of measures outlined in the Fire Prevention Act was scrutinised at Tuesday’s hearing of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the death of 17 prisoners at the Camp Street Prison. In the cross-examination, Attorney Christopher Ram sought to determine whether the Fire Service indeed observed all of the Standard Operating Procedures.

Ram grilled the Officer in Charge of Operations, Compton Sparman, over the

Fire Service’s operations on the day of the deadly prison fire and questioned him over what he knows about the Fire Prevention Act, Chapter 22:01; more particularly, Section 3 of that Act, which stipulates that a Fire Advisory Board be established. Sparman however avoided the questions regarding the body’s status.

“That decision would be made with the Chief Fire Officer, I know for sure a board supposed to be in place but whether it is functioning or not, it is not within my remit to make such a statement,” the Officer in Charge of Operations stated.

The attorney then asked the witness if he was aware that the Chief Fire Officer or any inspector could enter the premises for inspection purposes where there is a danger of an outbreak of fire.

“I am perfectly aware,” responded Sparman. He related that he has general knowledge of the inside of the prison based on prior inspections but could not state when the last inspection of the Georgetown prison was done.

In Monday’s testimony, Sparman told Commissioners that firemen could not rescue the burning inmates since the Prison Service was giving the orders. On Tuesday, the Fire Officer suggested that “certainly” the high prison population increased the potential for loss of life as was the case of the March 3 fire.

In re-examination by Attorney representing the Joint Services, Eusi Anderson, Sparman reiterated that fire fighters used some caution in their approach to the deadly blaze as they could have been trapped due to the “raucous behaviour” of the inmates and the layout of the Georgetown prison.

Throughout this week, witnesses from the Joint Services will continue to give their testimonies.

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The vehicles involved in the collision

ragedy was averted on Tuesday when four vehicles collided on Mandela Avenue, near the East Bank carriageway.

Reports are that at about 14:30h, the driver of motor pickup PNN 6834 was attempting to overtake a vehicle on the right lane in an apparent effort to jump the traffic light when he collided with Ralph Pollard, the driver of a Toyota Tundra, bearing registration plate GMM 5184.

The impact caused the Tundra to collide with two other vehicles – a white

Primo motorcar bearing registration plates PPP 7774 and a Corona Grand Extra motorcar bearing registration plates PEE 2232. The pickup skidded into a nearby utility pole, bringing it to a halt.

Fortunately no one was injured in the collision.

When Guyana Times arrived on the scene, Police were speaking with the drivers of the pickup and the Tundra, both of whom gave different versions of what transpired.

Speaking with this newspaper, Pollard said he was

struck when the driver of the pickup attempted to jump the traffic light.

“I was in the lane and I was about to drive off when I felt impact. This man was speeding and he struck my vehicle,” the worried man explained.

The driver of the pickup told Police that both himself and Pollard were attempting to change lanes at the same time when the two vehicles collided.

All four vehicles involved in the smash-up were badly damaged. The police are investigating the accident.

Special investigative unit in the pipeline – ACP Ramnarine

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he Guyana Police Force (GPF) is currently in the planning phase of a special investigative unit.

The unit is to consist of trained and skilled investigators that will be solely entrusted with the responsibility of investigating issues that have to do with juvenile offences, domestic violence, sexual offences and the trafficking of persons.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) David Ramnarine explained to Guyana Times at the launch of a travelling exhibition to create awareness of child abuse, that the GPF has a critical and important role to play in addressing major concerns regarding “the most important human resource, the children, who are ‘the wave of the future’”.

The Police Force some

been benefiting and will continue to benefit from specialised training.

There was a unit at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters, Eve Leary, that help responsibility of dealing with child sexual abuse

Assistant Commissioner of Police David Ramnarine

years ago started the process of creating the unit but this was not realised. Ramnarine stated that the process that has now restarted will see the realisation of such.

“We will continue at all costs, the process of ensuring that children in Guyana are given the necessary treatment, are given the necessary responses and are giv-

en the necessary attention in terms of what is available in the justice system,” ACP Ramnarine said.

The Assistant Commissioner of Police explained that the investigators will receive special training, noting that there is a wide cross section of members of the Force, through the rank and file, who have

related issues.

However, there will now be a unit in each of the seven geographical divisions of the Force. “Not only at the headquarters but at the sub divisional levels, a special unit that will address the key issues that have to do

with child abuse, etc,” said Ramnarine.

According to the APC, “the Guyana Police Force hopes to bring about the education and edification that is vital to ensuring that our children live happier and healthier lives.”

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Foundation

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nvolving the whole family is the best way to promote better eating habits and healthy activities for your children.

A whole-family approach simply means that everyone – parents and children alike – works together as a team to achieve good health and well-being. As with any team, there’s a leader or coach — and that’s you!

Part One: How to get the facts straight

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Lead by example

Adult family members are important role models for healthy eating and exercise. Talk about why you eat fruit as a snack, take an exercise class, or go for walks.

Start ‘em young

Don’t wait until your child is at an unhealthy weight to institute good eating and activity habits. It’s much easier to maintain a healthy weight than to lose pounds later.

Be active together

Make it usual for the family to be active, not sedentary. Being active as a family allows children to expend energy in a positive way, and adults get the

health benefits, too.

Cook together

It may not be possible to do it every day, but invite children into the process of preparing food. Little children can learn maths skills by measuring and they’ll begin to understand the chem-

istry of cooking. They’ll also gain an understanding of healthy ingredients.

Older children will enjoy having the authority to choose and prepare foods they like and will be more likely to eat what they’ve made. It might even inspire them to make healthy choices on their own.

Eat together

Eating a meal as a family sends the right messages about nutrition. Children will see their parents eating healthy food and may want to try new foods. They’ll also see mealtime as a time for socialising and sharing.

Parents get a chance to offer nutritious food, note their

children’ likes and dislikes, and talk about daily triumphs and troubles.

Family Goals Chart

If you’re trying to build healthier family habits, a goal chart is a good way to keep score. A chart, posted on the refrigerator or other highly visible spot, can remind family members to pay attention to eating and exercise habits.

Choose family goals, such as exercising every day and eating fruits and vegetables. Keep track of and praise those who meet their goals. And when the whole family achieves the goals, do something fun together to celebrate. (kidshealth)

here’s a lot of advice out there about helping families eat better, exercise more, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. So much advice, in fact, that sometimes the real message gets lost in all the hype.

Fortunately, Nemours Health and Prevention Services (NHPS), a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting children’s health, has made it easy for you to get the facts straight. Delawarebased NHPS, like kidshealth, is part of Nemours, one of the nation’s largest health systems devoted to improving the health of children. Its formula – called 5-2-1-Almost None – helps parents and children remember the basics of a healthy lifestyle.

What’s involved?

5: eating 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily 2: limiting screen time to no more than 2 hours a day 1: getting 1 or more hours of physical activity every day almost none: drinking almost no sugary beverages The guidelines in the 5-2-1-Almost None formula have been shown to help people prevent obesity, maintain a healthy weight, and improve their overall wellbeing.

Read on to learn how you can incorporate some of these guidelines into your family’s lifestyle.

Lots of fruits and vegetables

We were all told as children to “Eat your veggies!” And

now we’re telling our children the same. And why not? Most fruits and vegetables are full of nutrients and naturally low in calories and fat, making them a healthy choice. They’re also full of water and fibre, which makes them filling.

5-2-1-Almost None recommends 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily. According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), a serving size equals ½ cup of chopped fruit or vegetables or a full cup of leafy vegetables, like spinach.

Here are some ways to get more servings in your children’ diet: Have fruits and vegetables in children’ view on the counter or in the fridge; pre-cut them to make it easier to grab and go.

Ask children to help choose different vegetables and fruits for mealtime.

Get children involved in washing, chopping, and cooking fruits and vegetables.

They’ll love to eat what they prepare.

Offer fruit or vegetable options at every meal.

Be creative: Add fruits and vegetables to pancakes, cereal, oatmeal, scrambled eggs, pasta, and sandwiches.

Offer new fruits and vegetables and old favourites together. It can take several tries before children accept a new food, so if they don’t like it the first time, try it again soon.

Limit screen time

Screen time includes television, tablet, or smart phone; video games; and recreational computer use.

While some screen time can be an excellent way to educate and entertain children, too much is associated with an increased risk of becoming overweight.

5-2-1-Almost None recommends no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day. For children less than 2 years of age, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends no screen time at all.

Next time your older children complain “there’s nothing to do” but watch TV, offer these alternatives: Ask children to help make dinner, work in the garden, play outside, or just turn on some music and have fun together.

Go to the playground or take a walk around the neighbourhood. Do it together as a family – it’s a great opportunity for conversation and physical activity.

Encourage reading, playing, and crafts. Have books, magazines, board games, puzzles, and balls readily available.

Give your children a screen time allowance. Help them choose only the shows they really want to watch.

Turn off the TV and have dinner together. Ask every person to share the best and worst parts of the day with each other. (kidshealth)

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wednesDAY, APRIL 13, 2016 | guyana-times.com

PPP/C protests Bulkan’s “unlawful” selection of Mayor, NDC heads

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s pressure mounts on the Government to allow Guyana’s democracy to flourish, scores of supporters of the Opposition on Tuesday staged a peaceful picketing exercise outside the Ministry of the Presidency over the appointment of Government Councillors to head at least six Local Authority Areas where there was a tie after local polls.

The A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC)and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) received six seats each on the Mabaruma Town Council, Region One (BarimaWaini), while a similar situation obtained in five Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs).

However, Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan applied Section 13 (4) of the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01 and selected a Mayor for Mabaruma and Chairpersons of the five NDCs – a decision the PPP/C successfully challenged in the High Court last week.

Justice Diana Insanally subsequently quashed the appointment of a Mayor for Mabaruma as well as the appointments of chairmen of the five NDCs. The Government has since indicated that it would challenge Justice Insanally’s decision and was confident of coming out successful, as it maintained Bulkan acted legally.

But, in denouncing Bulkan’s “undemocratic” actions, PPP/C supporters from across the country, including WoodlandsFarm, Mahaicony, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice); Woodlands-Bel Air, Region Five and Industry-

Senior Party members leading the picketing exercise

Plaisance, Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).

The placard-bearing protesters braved the rains as they reiterated their position that “democracy was greater than the Government” and “democracy will prevail”.

Speaking to Guyana

had suggested a workable solution of rotation of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor position in Mabaruma and a similar system for tied NDCs, Bulkan went ahead and appointed APNU/AFC councillors to the positions, totally ignoring the PPP/C’s suggestion.

listen to their concerns and let good sense prevail.

He pointed out that the LGE were the basis for governance at the community level and his Party and supporters feel very aggrieved by the decisions made by Minister Bulkan.

On Thursday last, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo told a news conference that Bulkan disregarded the laws for the sake of convenience.

“This here is an illegal action on the part of the Government,” Jagdeo declared.

He told reporters that his Party sought to reach a compromise with the APNU/AFC and offered for there to be a rotation of the Mayorship and Deputy Mayorship in Mabaruma and similar arrangements for the five affected NDCs.

PPP/C supporters protest outside the Ministry of the Presidency

Times, PPP Executive Secretary and Member of Parliament (MP) Zulfikar Mustapha explained that the protesters were out to register their rejection of Bulkan’s action.

“This gathering is here to protest against the arbitrary decision made to appoint Chairpersons and Mayors in tied municipalities,” Mustapha stated.

He said while the PPP/C

Nigel Dharmalall, another PPP/C MP who was on the picket line said, Bulkan’s decision was “creating a cloud of controversy in the Local Government Elections (LGE)”.

The parliamentarian stressed on the level of disrespect shown by the Government to the very principles of harmony and unity that it preached. He is calling on the President to

Jagdeo said he personally spoke with the Government’s Chief Whip Amna Ally on the matter at the weekend where she said after consultations with President David Granger, a decision had been taken to

accept the suggestion of the PPP/C. He said there were even discussions on the process and procedure and talks about a formal agreement on the rotation.

However, Jagdeo said the Government has on its position and moved to

flout the laws and unilaterally appoint APNU/AFC Councillors to the top posts, even in areas where the PPP won a plurality of votes.

This action, Jagdeo said, is undemocratic and is thwarting the will of the majority of the people in those NDCs.

8 news

wednesDAY, APRIL 13, 2016 | guyana-times.com

IN THE COURTS Sign artist slapped with robbery charge

A

n East Coast Demerara (ECD) sign artist was on Tuesday arraigned on a robbery under arms charge when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Jevon Gillis, 20, of Lot 18 Goedverwagting, ECD, appeared before Magistrate Annette Singh. It is alleged that on April 2 while being armed with a hand gun,

Gillis robbed Diane Payne of a 48-inch television set valued $300,000, a Samsung tablet worth $50,000 and two Alcatel cellphones valued $18,000 among other items, a total value of $591,000.

Police Prosecutor Aduni Inniss told the Court that the investigating officer recovered both the television set and the Samsung tablet.

Despite the efforts of Gillis’

lawyer Paul Fung-A-Fat to get his client bail, he was remanded to prison. The case will continue on May 3, 2016.

Meanwhile, in a related case, Javed Nurse, 36, a gold miner of Lot 34 House Street, Charlestown, was granted $50,000 bail when he appeared before Magistrate Singh.

It is alleged that between April 2 and 7, 2016,

he received from Gillis in Georgetown a 48-inch television set and a Samsung tablet valued at $350,000 knowing same was feloniously stolen and obtained.

Nurse pleaded not guilty to the charge and his Attorney, Paul Fung-A-Fat made an application for bail. Police Prosecutor Aduni Inniss had no objections to bail. The case will continue on May 3.

Policeman lost tooth during attempt to arrest suspect – court told

A

man who hit a policeman causing him to lose a tooth appeared before Magistrate Dylan Bess on an assault charge at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

It is alleged that on December 22, 2015, at Camp Street, Georgetown, Shaquille Wilburg assaulted Stefan Sobers with intent to cause actual bodily harm.

Wilburg, 19, pleaded guilty with explanation to the

offence. In his explanation to the court, he stated that on the day in question, he went to visit a friend at Camp Street, when Sobers, a Police Officer, stopped him to enquire where he was going.

According to the prosecution’s case, Wilburg failed to answer the officer, who was in his uniform at the said time, and an altercation ensued.

As a result of the altercation, the Virtual Complainant (VC) lost a tooth.

The defendant, who seemed remorseful, professed, during his explanation to the Court, that it was not his intention to harm the VC in any way as he was just reacting to the situation in the spur of the moment.

The VC when given an opportunity to speak sternly indicated to the Magistrate that he would like the defendant to pay all expenses for the replacement of his tooth, a demand to which the defendant

readily agreed.

Before Magistrate Bess made a decision on the case, he asked Wilburg if he had anything else to say to the VC. “Yes, I am sorry for what happen to you and I didn’t mean for all of that to happen,” he replied.

Wilburg was then ordered to pay all expenses for the replacement of Sobers’ tooth and fined $20,000, with a default sentence of six months in prison.

Gold miner remanded on drug charge

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gold miner on Monday appeared before Magistrate Annette Singh to answer to the charge of trafficking in narcotics.

Akeem Lashley, 20, of Lot 83 Duke Street, Kingston, Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on April 9, 2016,

he had in his possession 18 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking. Defence Attorney Paul Fung-A-Fat requested bail for his client, but

Tobacco legislation to be...

The Minister believes that having the legislation passed will effectively reduce the illnesses associated with usage of the substance.

“Having the legislation passed does not mean that the drug will be banned, but rather laws associated with the usage will be altered so that the drug is not readily available for purchase in an instant,” the Minister said.

She highlighted that once the bill was passed in Parliament, the particulars relating to the purchase of tobacco would be reviewed, including the alteration of the age requirement for persons

to purchase the drug.

Ideally, no one should engage in smoking tobacco, but since that is difficult to achieve, the Minister said the Government will institute new laws that would make it more difficult for persons to get access to and use the drug.

Additionally, she stated, smoking indirectly leaves a burden on the health administration of the country and that should be considered when persons decide to use the drug.

As tobacco is one of the drugs that have a lasting effect on users, Cummings said that health practitioners were the ones who were left with

the prosecution objected.

The prosecution’s objection was upheld and Lashley was remanded to prison. The case will continue on May 3.

from page 2

the responsibility of having to nurse persons back to life. As such, the passing of the legislation will prove effective in improving the lives of the country’s population as well as reducing the strain on the Government and medical personnel.

The Minister disclosed that there were a number of other strategies which the Government was contemplating to address the health situation as well as to promote safe lifestyles and practices.

To achieve these goals, the Government will be partnering with a number of stakeholders along

with faith-based organisations, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and other relevant bodies to adopt these positive health practices in Guyana.

Dr Cummings said that the Government was planning on adopting policies that promote healthy eating which would significantly reduce the risk factors of related weight and cardiovascular diseases.

“These strategic initiatives can be expected to be seen in the near future as the health of the population remains at the top of the [Public Health] Ministry’s concerns,” the Minister said.

Eyew tness Splitsville...

R

...in the Coalition?

eading the tea leaves strewn around by the AFC, it’s hard not to conclude the marriage of Tain 2015 between APNU and AFC’s on the rocks.

That’s a crying shame ‘cause so many folks had such high hopes from the moment the engagement was announced on Valentine’s Day 2015. It was such a modern marriage! Learning from the experience of their predecessors (the PNC and UF in the 1960s) when the UF was kicked out from the marriage bed without any alimony, APNU and AFC took pains to have their lawyers work out a pre-nup.

They called it the Cummingsburg Accord. Well.

There certainly isn’t very much “accord” between the two parties right now – that’s for sure! Much is made about Minister of State in the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon having “too much power” – as charged by Nagamootoo. Now that’s a laugh...a big laugh. In politics – as in marriages – when it comes to matters of the bedroom, size (of power or whatever) doesn’t really matter – it’s what you do with it.

Imagine Nagamootoo’s PRIME Minister of the country – with constitutionally defined powers – and he says Harmon has more powers than him! He should be ashamed of himself! What was he doing for the past nine months? This Eyewitness will tell you what – playing with himself, that’s what! Wanker!! Flying off to the States on “private trips”....flying off to Canada to squeeze the flesh of campaign contributors – and give them “Diaspora Advisor” appointments...flying off to Mexico and promising paddy contracts that have never appeared. You could fill in the rest...Dear Readers.

And while he was off gallivanting and speechifying and showing what a “big man” he was – others like Harmon stepped up to the crease. If “nature abhors a vacuum” then politics abhors a vacuum in the exercise of power even worse. There, the rule is “use it or lose it”. Nagamootoo, Dear Readers, has lost it...and he ain’t getting it back for all the gold in Cathay. By now Prezzie knows Nagamootoo’s all bark and no bite. And for a man with a military background, to have someone at your back you can’t count on when the going gets tough, that’s ground for a summary execution.

And that’s what’s in store for Nagamootoo. But this Eyewitness has a question for the Prime Minister. If, as he says, he “co-chairs the Cabinet”, why hadn’t he pointed out those instances where Harmon exceeded his remit? He won’t, because he can’t.

Because he never sat next to Prezzie at Cabinet meetings...neither on the right nor left hand!

...in a family

There’s no more bitter struggle or fight than one between “family”. And Glen “Mook” Lall and Brian Tiwari are family. So the “vendetta” Tiwari claims that’s being waged against him by the Mook isn’t just a “tiff” that’ll blow over – after which they’ll soon kiss and make up. All kinds of nasty accusations have been made about TIWARI’s business operations by Mook’s Muckraker...and these went on for years. More than anything else, these reports convinced ordinary folks that Tiwari was raping the Treasury courtesy of the PPP. Now the Mook’s been slandering Tiwari and other businessmen who don’t suck up to him for years...but have the temerity to be successful. Envy and jealousy are such terrible masters! Now that Tiwari’s been forced to speak out...can we hope that some other businessmen who’ve been cowed into silence will find their voice?

Don’t hold your breath!

...in ideology?

Tiwari’s statement accused the Muckraker and Chronic not only of “gutter journalism”....but they’ve “taken the posture of the purveyors of fascist propaganda”.

“Purveyors of fascist propaganda?” Like of the macho, Trump-like figure the Mook affects?

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

news

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wednesDAY, APRIL 13, 2016 | guyana-times.com

International review of local audits

AFC’s calls are “nonsensical” – Ramon Gaskin

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s the apparent fall out continues to deepen between the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change AFC), independent analyst and economist Ramon Gaskin has dismissed as “nonsensical”, a call by the AFC for there to be an international review of the forensic audits into several State agencies, conducted by local auditors.

The AFC in a statement, following a leadership retreat on Sunday, said it was of the view that the series of audit reports into “apparent irregularities in various Government agencies should be supplemented by a review by experienced independent international forensic auditors and thereafter submitted to high quality external profession-

al independent legal advice with a view to proceeding to prosecution where warranted.”

However, Gaskin during an interview with Guyana Times on Monday said such a review was unnecessary.

“An international audit of an audit done by professional accountants is extremely silly; it’s nonsensical in the professional world. You can have an audit of an institution, but you can’t have an audit of an auditor. There is no need to bring in foreign auditors to audit the auditors, nobody does that,” Gaskin said.

The economist and political commentators believes that the AFC’s calls for ‘an audit of an audit’ are grounded in its uneasiness with a number of things.

“It is part of their unhap-

Economist Ramon Gaskin

piness with a lot of things.

I think they are unhappy with a lot of things and this is one new thing they are bringing up... that they are not happy with the results of the audit, that they

need an international auditor. But they should tell you which one of the audits done here by local people they are not happy with,” he reasoned.

Gaskin mentioned that Nigel Hinds Financial Services was one of the auditors and Nigel Hinds only last week defended Minister of State Joseph Harmon, who is embroiled in a campaign that is being waged against him by the Kaieteur News and several other anti-Harmon elements.

The economist further questioned why the AFC members who sit at Cabinet did not object to the appointment of the local auditors when the Government initiated the audits last year.

“When all of these auditors were appointed and

Several injured as Route 42 minibus topples

O

ver a dozen persons were injured on Tuesday morning after the driver of the Route 42 minibus in which they were travelling lost control, causing the vehicle to topple several times.

The accident occurred sometime around 09:30h on the Sarah Johanna Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD). According to reports reaching Guyana Times, the minibus was heading to Georgetown at a fast rate when it reportedly suffered a blowout.

This caused the bus to topple several times before finally coming to a halt on the other side of the road.

While there was no fatality, this newspaper was told that the accident caused most of the passengers to sustain bruises while three persons were seriously injured.

The injured passengers were rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, EBD. Several persons remained

Public spirited persons carrying one of the injured passengers while another sat on the ground, as persons gathered at the scene

at the medical facility seeking medical attention while a few were transferred to Georgetown to be further treated.

Guyana Times was told that among the passengers in the bus at the time of the accident were six students of Friendship Secondary School. A staff member from the school related that the students went to school af-

ter the incident; some limping and others in pain and informed the administration about the accident.

“The Police then came to the school and advice us to bring the students here at Diamond to get checked out,” the official said.

At the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, this publication spoke with a few of the students who were in

the minibus at the time of the accident. One student, Jennifer Lilly, recounted that as the bus was proceeding in the northern direction along the East Bank Road, it began to pick up speed. She noted that upon reaching a turn in proximity to Sarah Johanna, the bus went over a “bump”. turn to page 10

the matter went to Cabinet presumably, because a lot of money was paid to Goolsarran, Nigel Hinds and all of them, at that stage they should have indicated that they didn’t want these local accounting firms to do it,” he stated.

Many are of the view that the audits were done in a haphazard manner where on many occasions, the managers and heads of some of the audited agencies were not allowed to respond to claims made by the auditors, or in cases where they responded, their comments were excluded.

From the onset, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had issued calls for the audits to be conducted by independent international firms.

He had said that while his Party – the People’s Progressive Party/Civic – was willing to support any audit, it was only going to support such exercise if they were done by an international firm.

“We in the PPP will support any forensic audit, but for a forensic audit to be fair and to do its work to find corruption, you have to have the skills to do that and I submit that these two persons (Christopher Ram and Anand Goolsaran), they are political operatives.

They do not have the skills to practise forensic audits…

We are in favour of hiring a reputable international company, in a transparent process to do this, to do forensic audits of all of our accounts,” Jagdeo had said.

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guyanatimesgy.com

wednesDAY, april 13, 2016

News

Suspected Zika cases in Linden

LHC still awaiting results 1 month later

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month has passed and still the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) has not received the results of samples sent for testing, suspected to be the Zika virus in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Head of the region’s Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Health Committee, Dr Gregory Harris, last month disclosed that there were a few suspected cases of the virus in Linden. Dr Harris, who is attached to the LHC, revealed that a few patients who exhibited possible signs of the virus were attended to by health professionals at the medical institution, noting that the samples were sent for testing.

He said that two of those cases might test positive, since those patients had shown a full range of symptoms, including the rash, red eyes (conjunctivitis) and muscle and joint pain. Dr Harris had also promised to make

the information of the results available to the public once it becomes available. When contacted on Sunday, however, he indicated that he is still awaiting the results.

The Health Committee Chairman’s suspicions came at a time when there were mounted calls for fogging to commence in the region, in an effort to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. As promised by Regional Health Officer Pansy Armstrong, fogging has commenced in sections of Linden. Prior to the fogging exercises, she had also indicated that chemicals, such as larvacide were distributed across the region, to assist residents in dealing with the infestation of mosquito.

Earlier in the year, there were eight confirmed cases of the Zika Virus in Guyana and hundreds of suspected cases.

The first case was detected in an East Bank Demerara (EBD) woman who had trav-

elled to Berbice, while the second case was confirmed in a teenage boy residing at Eccles, EBD. Later on, the virus was detected in two Cuban doctors who reside in Guyana and another woman – all of whom live along the EBD corridor.

There is also a case where a US citizen was infected with the Virus after travelling from Guyana but there was no confirmation if the visitor contracted the disease here.

In Guyana, if patients exhibit symptoms similar to those of the Zika Virus, they are first tested for other related infections such as malaria, dengue or chikungunya.

If those test results are negative, the blood samples would then be sent overseas for testing for the Zika Virus. In most cases, the test results have come back negative.

Effects of Zika

French researchers recently discovered that in ad-

dition to causing severe birth defects, the Zika Virus can result in a rare neurological ailment in adults and is linked to paralysis-causing myelitis (inflammation in the spinal cord).

Myelitis can affect limb movement and cause paralysis by interrupting communication between the spinal cord and the rest of the body.

French experts reported that a 15-yearold girl diagnosed on the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe with acute myelitis in January had high levels of Zika in her cerebrospinal fluid, blood and urine.

“The presence of Zika virus in the cerebrospinal fluid of our patient with acute myelitis suggests that this virus might be neurotropic” – something that attacks the nervous system,” the researchers noted.

Also, there have been less than a handful of reported cases of sexual transmission.

Rum sucker S

atiricus’ joy knew no bounds. For years his favourite politician Nagga Man was forced to hang his head down in shame of being a “rum drinker”. In fact, of late folks called him a “rum sucker”. Satiricus had to admit Nagga Man had a thing for rum – Bush Rum. Couldn’t help it – it was his village of Whimsey’s biggest product. Nagga Man was inducted into rum drinking even as he was wearing short pants at Whimsey Primary and was called Nagga Boy. His classmate – the young dimple-kneed GrainJa – tried a shot of the Bush Rum once, but spat it out in disgust. Nagga Boy and his friends had a good guffaw at the callow GrainJa’s expense. Young GrainJa was forced to leave the village, since Nagga Boy and his cohorts wouldn’t let him forget he wasn’t a real “Whimsey Boy”.

As he grew up, Nagga Man always wondered what the fuss was about some snot-nosed Trini singing, “Rum Till I Die!” Satiricus wasn’t surprised.

“Heck!” he muttered to himself, “Most of Nagga Boy comrades DID drink rum till they croaked – long before it became a hit.”

Nagga Man kept up his Whimsey culture as he moved all over Guyana, and that was how he became known as a “rum sucker”. But Satiricus always had faith and knew that the day would come when Nagga Man would be recognised as a true Guyanese hero.

And that day had come! Here it was – on the front page of every newspaper in the country – was Nagga Man with a shot of rum from a bottle that cost $500,000! That shot alone must’ve cost $25,000! And guess who was at his side with his shot of the rum? None other than GrainJa who was now called Prezzie!! When it was time to drink the shot of rum, after all the twirling and sniffing, Prezzie balked as he remembered his humiliation at Whimsey Primary.

But Nagga Man saved the day! He quickly offered to drink Prezzie’s rum and saved the distraught man from losing his dignity.

This was what Nagga Man had been training for since he was a lad in Whimsey? And he didn’t even like the taste of the $500,000 rum.

It tasted nothing like the Bush Rum Nagga Man grew to love ever since he was Nagga Boy. Now people wouldn’t sneer at him for being a rum sucker.

This was his destiny.

Several injured as...

from page 9

It was at this point the bus suffered a blowout causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

“The bus swerve to the right like it was turning back (heading to Timehri) and the tyre start wobbling. Then the bus pitched over on the eastern side of the road and started to flip over like about four to five times, and ended up over the other side in a gutter,” the young women detailed.

She further recalled persons in the minibus screaming, noting that she had to kick out a portion of the back of the bus who get out. The young lady could not say whether anyone was seriously injured but recalled seeing persons crying out in pain.

“I see a man lying next to me, his foot like it break

or something because they had to carry he to another bus. And it had a lady lying down, screaming. She had a little bit of blood but I don’t know what injury she had,” the student stated.

Another one of her colleagues, Steven (only name given), related to this newspaper that after the bus started to topple, “I thought I died but then it stopped and I open my eyes and see I was ok”. He noted that the bus was overloaded.

Fortunately, none of the students was seriously injured; however, they did complain about being hard hit about their bodies.

Meanwhile, the driver of the minibus has since been taken into Police custody and is assisting with the investigations.

news

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WEDNESDAY, april 13, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Ministerial Code of Conduct

Govt awaits public submissions

– only 1 response submitted – PM

T

he office of the Integrity Commission is again inviting members of the public to submit comments on the draft Code of Conduct for all Ministers of Government, Members of the National Assembly and public office holders.

Speaking with the media on Monday, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo said even with an extension granted for submissions to be made, Government has so far only received one submission and that was from the Guyana Bar Association.

“The Code of Conduct would go through an exercise of an advertisement for further submission. We have received only one submission in terms of contribution and that is from the Guyana Bar Association. Though Government had put out an article that it is opened for submissions, we have not received any submissions as yet,” Nagamootoo told Journalists on Monday.

The call for the swift enforcement of the Ministerial Code of Conduct became more pronounced, following the public debate about the appointment of businessman and Contractor Brian “BK” Tiwari as an adviser on business development to Minister of State Joseph Harmon.

According to Nagamootoo, the time frame will also be set for submissions. He said Government was also seeking to solicit best practices from other Caribbean countries.

“I have already asked for copies of integrity legislation from Trinidad and we are looking how to merge the Code of Conduct with the integrity legislation… integrity legislation would demand requirement of someone who holds public office and the Code of Conduct is setting either a higher or lower standard,” he assured.

As it is now, Nagamootoo said, “We will have to wait, I believe not later than six

weeks for the submissions to be made.”

Contraction

At the beginning of March, Government had said that it was extending the countrywide consultation on the subject, opening opportunities for civil society to give its extensive input on the way forward. However, the Prime Minister is contradicting what Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman, who in his capacity as Governance Minister on November 5, 2016 had said.

Trotman at a post-Cabinet media briefing had disclosed that the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) sent their feedback and that Government is in the process of reviewing those suggestions.

“We are trying to see how we can incorporate those comments,” Trotman said.

Red Thread on January 5, also offered its input into the Code of Conduct. Executive Member of Red Thread, Karen De Souza had said that the Code of Conduct should have included the dismissal of persons if faced with enough evidence.

According to the Ministry of the Presidency, the purpose of the Code of Conduct is to assist Ministers and Members of Parliament (MPs) and public office holders in the discharge of their obligations to their constituents and the public at large.

It provides guidance on the values – the moral qualities – that should govern the conduct of Ministers and MPs in discharging their parliamentary and public duties. It is also meant to reinforce public confidence in the way in which Ministers and public office holders perform those duties.

Ministers, by virtue of the oath or affirmation of allegiance taken when they are elected, have a duty to be faithful and bear true al-

legiance to the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, according to law.

Public office holders are duty-bound by this Code in all aspects of their public life.

This Code does not seek to regulate the conduct of public office holders in their private and personal lives.

Public office holders have a duty to uphold the law, including the general law against discrimination and sexual harassment, and to act with propriety on all occasions in accordance with the public trust and confidence placed in them.

Public office holders have a general duty to act in the interests of the nation as a whole and owe a special duty of care to their constituents, and citizens.

The Code of Conduct says that the acceptance of gifts and other forms of rewards worth more than $10,000

by Ministers, MPs and other public office holders in their official capacity shall be reported to the Integrity Commission.

Ministers, MPs and public office holders should consider declining such gratuities if the acceptance of same could be perceived to have an effect on their objectivity and lead to complaints of bias or impropriety.

The Code of Conduct lays out that Ministers, MPs and public office holders should also avoid using their official position or transmitting any information made available to them in the course of their duties to benefit themselves, their relations or any other individuals with whom they are associated. They should avoid compromising themselves or their office and any action which may lead to an actual or perceived conflict of interest. Failure to avoid or declare any conflict of interest may give rise to criticism of favouritism, abuse of authority or even allegations of corruption.

12 news

wednesDay, APRIL 13, 2016 | guyana-times.com

No Cabinet decision PNC Central Committee to on Harmon discuss matter today Lawrence’s comment on alleged child molester candidate

A

s calls continue to mount for the removal of Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence over her support of Local Government Elections (LGE) candidate Winston Harding, the Central Executive Committee of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) is expected to discuss the matter today.

This is according to leader of the Party, President David Granger. The Head of State had previously noted that he would seek an explanation from the Minister about the process used to select Harding as the party’s candidate for Constituency 13 (East and

West Ruimveldt) at the recent local government polls.

On Monday, the President reported to media operatives that Lawrence has submitted her explanation which was forwarded to the PNCR’s Central Executive Committee and would be coming up for discussion at today’s meeting.

“She has written me and that report was forward to the Central Executive Committee of the party, which will examine it on Wednesday night,” he stated.

After his selection as a LGE candidate, it was revealed that Harding had faced several charges of child sexual molestation over the

years but was never convicted. However, the Social Protection Minister came under fire after she was reported in the local media as saying that the matter was family related and should not have been handled the way it was.

“This is a family issue that has been going on and on and on and on for whatever reason, I can’t tell you because if I had a brother, even if there was an accusation, this is not how I would go about helping him,” she had stated.

The Minister’s comment sparked much outrage among rights activists and members of several Non-Government Organisations (NGOs), with

them frequently picketing the Ministry of the Presidency.

On Tuesday, another such exercise was held where the NGO representatives reiterated their calls for the Head of State to take appropriate action against Minister Lawrence. This time, the Guyanese Organisation of Indigenous Peoples (GOIP) joined Red Thread in picketing the President’s Office.

Despite the imbroglio, Harding, on an A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) ticket, was successful in his bid to become a City Councillor at the March 18 LGE.

Enmore teen missing – last seen at school gate

A

n Enmore, East Coast Demerara family has been worried since Monday when 15-year-old Vilma Anant went missing.

Guyana Times understands that Anant, commonly known as “Kamini”, is a Fourth Form (Grade 10) student of Apex Academy.

The teenager reportedly left for school on Monday morning but upon arriving at the gate, she turned around and left – and has not been seen or heard from since.

Speaking with this news-

paper, Anant’s uncle, Vijay Sukhdeo, explained that “Kamini” had been living with them since she was little. He said the teenager’s parents had resided in Mahaica Creek, but separated years ago so he and his wife took in “Kamini”.

“She come live with us from since nursery to now and we never had any problems like this before,” the worried man related.

Sukhdeo recalled that on Monday morning “Kamini” sat down to have break-

fast with the family and all seemed to be well with her.

She then left for school. He noted some time after they got a call from the school asking about her.

“Because it’s a private school, they would call home whenever a student does not show up. So the teacher called home and asked about her and I told her that she left to go to school, but the teacher said she wasn’t there,” the man noted.

He added that later in the day when the school bus re-

Missing: Vilma “Kamini” Anant

turned to drop off students, they enquired from the driver and he confirmed that he dropped the teenager off in the morning.

Sukhdeo went on to relate that he visited the school on Tuesday and was shown footage from Monday morning. “Mr Ali showed me the video and we see her going up to the school gate and then she turn around and left,” the man said.

The cameras did not extend to the road, so it cannot be said where the young lady could have gone from the school’s Atlantic Gardens, ECD location. According to her uncle, there was no one with his niece at the time nor did anything seem to be amiss with her.

Furthermore, the man said that on Monday after the young woman failed to return home, the family contacted all her relatives and friends, but no one had seen or heard from her.

A worried Sukhdeo explained to this newspaper that his niece was a quiet individual and had never caused such a problem.

“I don’t know what happen … I really can’t say why she would disappear like that, we never had any problems with her… this is the first time something like this happen,” he said.

The family is pleading with the teenager to return home as soon as possible, and is also requesting members of the public with information on the whereabouts of 15-year-old Vilma “Kamini” Anant to contact them on 616-6345 or the nearest Police Station.

N

o decision has been taken as it relates to trimming some of the duties and responsibilities of Minister of State Joseph Harmon after hours of discussion at Cabinet on Tuesday.

The Alliance For Change (AFC), the small partner in the coalition Government, has called for Harmon to be stripped of some of the portfolios he holds in light of recent controversy involving the Minister.

A Cabinet source told Guyana Times late Tuesday night that the matter came up for discussion, and Minister Harmon was given the opportunity to defend himself before the Cabinet, but no decision has been taken.

“Well, I can tell you that Mr Harmon has the chance to sort of defend himself before Cabinet… That’s what happen (Tuesday), I really can’t go into details, but what I know is that Cabinet will now have to examine and analyse the various submissions before any decisions can be taken,” the Cabinet Member stated.

Asked whether it was indicated how soon a decision could be taken, the source said: “I won’t be able to say.”

On Sunday last, Harmon broke his silence after three weeks of sensationalised articles published by the Kaieteur News in an apparent smear campaign against him. He noted that he was not concerned by the current “organised campaign to damage his reputation” as it would not affect the way in which he performed his duties.

In what appears to be a move aimed at tarnishing Harmon’s political career, Kaieteur News has been publishing a series of articles about the Minister’s decision to appoint businessman Brian Tiwari as his personal Adviser on Business Development and instructions he gave to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to halt a seizure of several vehicles from Chinese logging company BaiShanLin. The articles were skilfully designed in a manner to portray the Minister as corrupt.

President David Granger had described claims of corruption against Harmon and his Government as “outrageous”, and stated that it was difficult for him to accept a blanket criticism of the entire Administration because of one incident.

Following a retreat on Sunday, the AFC released a

statement in which it called for Harmon’s powers to be trimmed. The AFC had explained that the concentration of the powers of the office of the Cabinet Secretary, the Minister of State in the Ministry of the Presidency and the effective Head of the Presidential Secretariat in a single person was a matter of concern and the powers should be separated.

The statement continued that the “current difficulties which the Government has encountered in the continuing revelations arising out of the appointment of the Advisor on Business Development, and the issues surrounding this, have their roots in the concentration of the powers... The responsibilities of each of the above portfolios are substantial and of critical importance to the smooth operations of the Government and would benefit from separate appointments.”

However, the Head of State on Monday told reporters that he did not believe Harmon’s duties and responsibilities were at all too burdensome.

“I don’t think that they are so burdensome that he cannot take all three responsibilities. I am standing by the duties which were assigned to him last May and this is what we have been working with for the last 11 months and this is what was explained to the Cabinet retreat in January,” the President said.

Moreover, he posited that he was surprised that the AFC now seemed to find fault in the distribution of duties and responsibilities among Cabinet members.

“We had a retreat of the Cabinet earlier this year and we put out a very clear statement on the responsibilities of all 14 Ministers and the Ministry of the Presidency.

So there is a book and it is stated, and nobody made any objections to the duties which were assigned to the Minister of State then and it would be surprising that after two months, people feel that the duties are being misused or they need to be trimmed,” he explained.

Minister Harmon has been one of the most proactive and competent ministers within the APNU/AFC Administration and has been a target of Kaieteur News’ vendetta because of his association with Tiwari, the cousin of Glenn Lall, Publisher of that newspaper.

Lindener on $20,000 bail for assault

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Lindener was granted $20,000 bail by Magistrate Clive Nurse on Tuesday on a charge of assault.

Ornoghue Simon, 41, was charged with unlawfully as-

saulting Donneka Archibald at Richmond Hill, Mackenzie, Linden on April 9.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge and will make his next court appearance on May 18.

News

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wednesDay, APRIL 13, 2016 | guyana-times.com

Endangered Jaguar caught and relocated

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fficials from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) last week captured a male Jaguar in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and sent the endangered animal to Region Four.

According to a release from the EPA, on Tuesday, the Agency received reports about the capture of a male Jaguar in a trap set by residents

of Lake Capoey, Essequibo, Region Two. Following this, an Officer from the EPA and a Representative of the Ministry of Natural Resources promptly visited the area to verify the news and the safety of the feline.

Arrangements were made by the EPA with the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) as well as the Guyana Livestock Development Authority

(GLDA), to relocate the Jaguar to the Hyde Park Animal Sanctuary at Land of Canaan on the East Bank of Demerara to protect the animal.

According to the EPA, the main reason for the increasing number of Jaguars trespassing in villages and attacking livestock in Region Two is food. The long dry spell in this area is causing the large cat’s normal

Occupational Health and Safety Month

Book exhibition launched

Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence addressing the gathering at the book exhibition

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s a preview of Occupational Health and Safety Day, which will be celebrated internationally on April 28, the University of Guyana launched a book exhibition as part of its observances of Occupational Health and Safety Month.

An array of books, journals and posters pertaining to the issue of occupational health and safety were on display and participants were told to appraise themselves on such a “crucial issue”. Speaking at the event, Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence related that workers should advocate for proper use of gear and equipment to provide safety on the job.

“In this era of globalisation, information is power and we want to have a workforce that is knowledgeable in every aspect of the job, particularly as it pertains to safety and protection,” she

noted.

“Empowerment is best achieved when we have the commitment and participation of all stakeholders in the process,” Minister Lawrence further observed.

The Social Protection minister posited that the entire month of April will include a series of events and activities with the hope of “educating and heightening awareness of occupational health and safety in the workplace.”

“It is crucial that all our workers perform and execute their tasks in a safe and healthy environment, hence our theme for this month’s celebration ‘Workplace Stress: A collective Challenge’. Inherent in this theme is the call for all stakeholders – management as well as workers, to embrace this issue collaboratively in an effort to minimise the stress that is evident in the working en-

vironment,” Lawrence observed.

She also noted that each employee must be valued, respected and satisfied for them to make a valuable contribution to the company or institution in which he/ she is employed.

Additionally Minister Lawrence said that workers must be able to execute their functions “without fear of being hurt, threatened or victimised”.

The event included representatives of Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation; Ministers of the Government; Members of the Opposition; representatives from the Social Protection Ministry, through its Labour Department; librarians of the University of Guyana; Guyana Trades Union officials, and representatives and employees of various workers’ unions.

The Jaguar is the largest cat of the Americas weighing up to 100 kilograms (220 pounds)

prey to move closer to water sources, making the search for food harder for Guyana’s national animal. This forces the animal to intrude into communities and prey upon the domestic animals found there. Other reasons for the encroachment of these animals into communities are old age and injuries.

In light of the increased instances of jaguar encroachment, residents have opted to trap Jaguars to reduce the toll on their livestock. However, the EPA has advised that there were

measures that could be taken to prevent Jaguars, which are legally protected in Guyana under the Wildlife Management and Conservation Regulations (WMCR), from entering the communities.

The method that has proven to be most effective is to ‘’keep domesticated animals in well-constructed pens or corrals at night and to use motion-triggered light or loud sounds near the livestock, as the surprise effect would cause the feline to retreat and contin-

ue their search for food elsewhere’’.

The release highlighted that the Jaguar was the largest cat of the Americas weighing up to 100 kilograms (220 pounds) and played an important role in maintaining a healthy environment by helping to control the population of smaller animals lower down the food chain.

Since their large bodies require lots of food, they tend to prey on forest dwellers such as peccaries (bush hogs); deer; tapir (bush cow); turtles and armadillos, etc, to maintain their body mass.

There are still a few thousand Jaguars left in Guyana and these are protected.

Jaguars are shy by nature, and even people who walk the forests frequently do not see them because these predators tend to be elusive, hiding from sight and avoiding interaction.

Residents are encouraged to report any incidents with Jaguars to the EPA Wildlife Unit on 2255467/225-6048 ext: 226.

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wednesDay, april 13, 2016

News

Closure of Wales Sugar Estate

Series of protest actions planned W

ith the move to close the Wales Sugar Estate seeming even more eminent, sugar workers attached to the estate are unwavering in their defiance against the move.

Guyana Times has learnt that in the coming days and weeks, a series of measures will be undertaken to protest the decision to close the entity. These revelations have come on the heels of the recent vigil that was held outside the estate on Thursday last, where workers noted that the decision to close the estate must be reversed.

Another vigil is planned for next Tuesday while further information reaching this publication posited the likelihood of protest actions being taken to the capital city of Georgetown. Additionally, various religious groups in the area are said to be organising events to show their support for workers, their families and fellow community members.

At the vigil on Thursday last, one young man, Christopher Rattam, told this newspaper that he finished school last year and attained nine CXC subjects. He also explained that he is currently without employment and depends on his father for upkeep, noting that the lives of his entire family will be in jeopardy if the estate is closed.

At a strike at the estate on February 4, Joanna

valuables in their home.

Former Toevlugt-Patentia Neighbourhood Democratic Council Chairman, Roy Bennett had noted the need for more streetlights as reports of crime in the area had increased.

GuySuCo confirmed the closure of one of the country’s oldest estates in January after Guyana Times revealed that the decision was made.

Since then, a series of strike actions have continued against the decision to close the estate.

The scene of last Thursday’s vigil

Bailey, a seller and mother of four from Patentia, West Bank Demerara, had called on the Government to look into her plight and that of the younger generation.

“I work two bucket for many years at the GuySuCo [Wales] estate… I have a child who is in secondary school [who has] to write the CXC, SBA, assignment, lesson… and I would like the Government to look down on single parents – concern of the cry and the heart for the tomorrow young people [who] have no hope,” Bailey had expressed.

Vishnu Mohan, another worker said he is mostly worried for his children and is against receiving severance pay. Mohan posited “When you a tek severance and yo money done, wah you ah do?

Wah yo pickeney dem ah do?”

He had also emphasised

that this closure means he would have great difficulty in sending his children to school.

At another strike, estate worker Joshua Fernandes, a father of seven, had related to Guyana Times that four of his seven children are still in school and he is worried about his family’s future.

“Me want them reverse this decision, me ain’t want no transfer. A lot of people depend on [Guyana Sugar Corporation] GuySuCo… I think here would be a ghost town if the estate close down.

I think they should build a big prison in Wales Police [Station] compound because here would turn a very bad place.”

Some weeks after in March, a Wales estate official and his family were reportedly held at gunpoint and robbed of their

World Bank to help improve local business environment

Staff of the Business Ministry, Permanent Secretary Rajdai Jagarnauth (third from left), and the World Bank team

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he Business Ministry has invited a team from the World Bank to provide advice on improving the local business environment. The World Bank’s ‘Ease of doing business index’ ranks economies from one to 189, with first place being the best. A high ease of doing business ranking means the regulatory environment is more conducive to the starting and operating of a local firm. The index averages the country’s percentile rankings on 10 topics covered.

The World Bank team is visiting Guyana from April 11–14 and will have several meetings with both Government agencies and the Private Sector. Their focus is on the 10 pillars of the annual ‘Doing Business Report’.

These include trade transactions, access to electricity, credit, land and construction permits,

starting a business, paying taxes, enforcing contracts, and resolving insolvency.

The Business Ministry, A Government Information Agency report stated, hopes to consolidate previous reform efforts, current activities and new ideas.

Such improvements can include legislation, administrative procedures, and Information Technology systems, licensing and sharing of information.

In the World Bank Doing Business Index, Guyana is ranked 167th (out of 189 countries) for access to credit. This makes Guyana one of the most difficult places in the world to get credit, and this has contributed to a final position at 137 out of 189 countries overall in the Index.

The rankings are determined by sorting the average distance to frontier scores on 10 topics, each

consisting of several indicators, giving equal weight to each topic. The distance to frontier score aids in assessing the level of regulatory performance and how it improves over time. An economy’s distance to frontier is reflected on a scale from zero to 100, where zero represents the lowest performance and 100, the frontier. For example, a score of 75 in doing business (DB) 2015 means an economy was 25 percentage points away from the frontier constructed from the best performances across all economies and across time.

A score of 80 in DB 2016 would indicate the economy is improving. In this way, the distance to frontier measure complements the annual ease of doing business ranking, which matches economies with one another at a point in time.

Caribbean Airlines announces US$5 increase on 2nd checked bag

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aribbean Airlines has announced that it has increased its rate for passengers who are desirous of checking a second bag.

The airline said on Tuesday that the new rate of US$30 takes effect on May 1. According to the Trinidad based company, the first checked piece of luggage will continue to fly free, with the maximum weight allowed for each bag remaining 50 pounds.

However, the old baggage rate of US$25 will be honoured on all tickets that were purchased up to March 31, 2016.

“Customers who travel with carry-on baggage are still entitled to one free carry-on piece not exceeding 22lbs and one personal item which could be in the form of a laptop, briefcase, purse or small bag,” the airline said in a release.

Business class pas-

sengers will remain exempted from the baggage fees. They are allowed three complimentary checked bags at 50 lbs each. Customers enrolled in Caribbean Miles & 7th Heaven Rewards Loyalty programmes who have earned silver, gold or executive gold status and passengers purchasing flexible economy fares have also been exempted from the new fees.

wednesDAY, april 13, 2016

guyana-times.com

15

Around the world

Brazil’s Dilma Rousseff Venezuela’s Supreme Court accuses VP Temer of overturns amnesty bill being part of ‘coup’ V

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razilian President Dilma Rousseff has denounced a “coup” plot against her, suggesting that Vice President Michel Temer is one of the “conspirators”.

The President – who is facing impeachment in the national Congress – hinted that he was one of the ringleaders of a plot to overthrow her.

She said an audio message released on Monday

by Temer, who she did not name, was evidence of the conspiracy.

The message by Temer called for a government of national unity.

Correspondents say that it implied that Rousseff’s impeachment had already happened. Temer says the

President Rousseff is fending off impeachment proceedings in Congress

message was released by accident.

In it he appears to be rehearsing an inaugural speech hours before an im-

portant vote by a congressional committee to decide whether impeachment proceedings against President Rousseff should continue.

“They now are conspiring openly, in the light of day, to destabilise a legitimately elected President,” Rousseff said.

In an apparent reference to Vice President Temer and Lower House Speaker Eduardo Cunha she referred to “the chief and... the vice chief” of the plot.

The President said that one was guilty of “unimaginable abuses” in the impeachment process, while the other was “rubbing his hands in glee while carrying out a farcical leak of an inaugural speech”. (Excerpt from BBC

News)

Hawking backs interstellar travel project S cientist Stephen Hawking is backing a project to send tiny spacecraft to another star system within a generation.

They would travel trillions of miles, far further than any previous craft.

A US$100 million research programme to develop the computer chip-sized “starships” was launched by

the billionaire Yuri Milner, supported by Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg.

Interstellar travel has long been a dream for many, but significant technological hurdles remain.

But Professor Hawking told BBC News that fantasy could be realised sooner than we might think.

“If we are to survive as a

Boko Haram crisis: Huge rise in child suicide bombers

species we must ultimately spread out to the stars,” he said.

“Astronomers believe that there is a reasonable chance of an Earth-like planet orbiting one of the stars [in] the Alpha Centauri system. But we will know more in the next two decades from ground based and space based telescopes. (Excerpt from BBC

News)

enezuela’s Supreme Court has overturned an amnesty for jailed Opposition Leaders approved by the Oppositioncontrolled Parliament.

About 70 activists opposed to President Nicolàs Maduro’s socialist Government had been due for release under the law approved last month.

But the court declared

the amnesty law unconstitutional.

President Maduro had condemned the law as an attempt to destabilise his leadership of the country.

The Supreme Court has consistently backed the Venezuelan Government since the Opposition triumphed in congressional elections in December.

In a statement, the

court said the amnesty law was unconstitutional because it covered offences “that are acts of organised crime, which are not related to crimes of a political nature”.

The Opposition won parliamentary elections largely on a promise to work towards the release of dozens of what it considers political prisoners. (Excerpt from BBC News)

William and Kate on state visit to India

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he Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have visited a charity working with street children in India on the third day of their South Asia tour.

Prince William and Catherine saw how the Salaam Baalak Trust provides support for working children in Delhi.

Later, during a meeting with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Duke discussed pressures on the steel industry, Prince William’s spokesman said.

The royals are on a seven-day tour of India and neighbouring Bhutan.

The Duke’s discussion with Modi comes during a crisis facing the UK’s steel industry, which has been blamed on the “dumping” of Chinese steel, relatively high energy prices and the extra cost of climate change policies.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Duke and Duchess visited a centre for vulnerable young people in Delhi

India’s Tata Steel has begun the formal process of selling its loss-making UK business and UK MPs are to hold an emergency threehour debate on the crisis.

The Duke and Duchess met PM Modi at New Delhi’s Hyderabad House, a former royal residence of maharajas that has hosted Heads of

State from across the globe.

Other issues that were discussed during the meeting included the strength of the UK-India relationship in areas including defence and security, opportunities for young people, conservation and the UK/India Year of Culture in 2017. (Excerpt from

BBC News)

IMF warns UK over EU exit moves

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he United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union could cause “severe regional and global damage”, the International Monetary Fund has warned in its latest outlook.

A so-called “Brexit” would disrupt established

trading relationships and cause “major challenges” for both the UK and the rest of Europe, it said.

The IMF said the referendum had already created uncertainty for investors and a vote to exit would only heighten this.

Vote Leave said the

IMF had been “consistently wrong” in past forecasts.

The IMF, one of the main pillars of the global economic order with a mandate to oversee the international monetary and financial system, also cut its UK growth forecast.

If the June 23 referendum

in the UK were to produce a vote in favour of leaving the EU, the IMF would expect negotiations on post-exit arrangements to be protracted, which it warned “could weigh heavily on confidence and investment, all the while increasing financial market volatility”. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Taiwanese “forced onto plane to China” by Police in Kenya This 15-year-old was abducted and forced to be a militant’s wife until freed by Cameroon’s army

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oko Haram’s use of child bombers has increased over the last year with one in five suicide attacks now done by children, the UN’s child agency says.

Girls, who are often drugged, were behind threequarters of such attacks committed by the militant Islamist group in Cameroon, Nigeria and Chad.

It is an 11-fold increase with four attacks in 2014 compared to 44 the next year, including January 2016.

The change in tactics re-

flects the loss of territory in Nigeria by the group.

The seven-year insurgency, which has mainly affected north-eastern Nigeria as well as its neighbours around Lake Chad, has left some 17,000 people dead.

UNICEF says up to 1.3 million children have been forced from their homes across four countries: Cameroon, Chad, Nigeria and Niger.

The girls who are used

by Boko Haram for bombings are often drugged and then explosives are strapped to their bodies. (Excerpt from BBC News)

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he authorities in Taiwan have accused Kenya of using guns and tear gas to force 37 Taiwanese on to a plane bound for mainland China.

Eight other Taiwanese were deported to mainland China on Monday, prompting Taiwan to accuse Beijing of “extrajudicial abduction”.

China has praised Kenya for supporting its “one-China policy”.

Beijing views Taiwan – self-ruling since 1950 – as a renegade region that must be reunited with the mainland.

China does not recognise Taiwan as an independent nation

It insists that other countries cannot recognise both China and

Taiwan, with the result that Taiwan has formal diplomatic ties with only

a few countries.

Taiwan does not have formal diplomatic relations with Kenya.

Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry said Kenyan police had forced 22 Taiwanese citizens, arrested on suspicion of fraud, to board a plane bound for China on Tuesday, despite protests from John Chen, Taiwan’s representative to South Africa.

Another 15 Taiwanese, who had been acquitted in the case, were also coerced into boarding the plane, it said. (Excerpt from BBC

News)

16 NEWS

wednesDAY, april 13, 2016 | guyana-times.com

Illegal pesticides seized from China Trading E ighty-three cartons of unregistered pesticides were confiscated by Inspection and Enforcement Officers of the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB) from China Trading, as the officers conducted routine inspection activities.

The PTCCB in a media release stated that its sei-

registered by them and “in keeping with the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Regulations 2004 (No 8 of 2004) all pesticides imported, sold and used in Guyana must be registered by the Board.”

The body further said that “the registration process helps to ensure that products imported do not contain chemicals that are banned or

children, since the chemical content is unknown and may be highly toxic, the PTCCB said.

The PTCCB is cautioning the general public to avoid purchasing and using illegal

ed in the confiscation of 444kg of illegal agricultural and household pesticides from numerous businesses countrywide and that “enforcement activities are continuing and illegal pesticides will contin-

may be severely hazardous, and determines the level of toxicity.”

“Green Leaf Powder” – the name that the product is commonly known by, comprises mainly of Green Leaf Ants Bait, Green Leaf Cockroach Bait and Green Leaf Fly Bait.

These products may be dangerous to the environment and human health, especially

pesticides especially in their homes, offices, restaurants, hotels etc.

The entity said also that street vending of pesticides is “illegal and as such, pesticides should not be purchased from the ‘man in street’ but from a licensed vending shop.”

The PTCCB in its release said that their enforcement activities have so far result-

ue to be confiscated as part of the PTCCB’s zero tolerance campaign against illegal pesticides.”

The Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board recently seized over $4 million worth of illegal agriculture and household pesticides and products during a two-month exercise conducted across the country.

The seized illegal pesticides

zure the 83 cartons of unregistered pesticides from China Trading is in keeping with the PTCCB’s mandate to “eliminate the importation, sale and use of illegal pesticides while reducing the availability of these unwanted products.”

According to the PTCCB, the products seized during these operations were not

Ebini Agriculture Station access road to be rehabilitated

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he Agriculture Ministry’s National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) is currently tendering for the rehabilitation of the access road to the

Ebini Agriculture Station.

The repairs, along with the construction of three timber bridges and the installation of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipe

culverts, will cost an estimated $42.8 million, according to the Government Information Agency (GINA).

“These projects are in keeping with Government’s

NAREI CEO, Dr Oudho Homenauth

programme for agricultural diversification, and will not only create greater easier access to the site, but also boost production and commercial activities in the area,” GINA said in its release.

“A Brazilian firm, New Frontier Agriculture Incorporated (NFAI) will be commencing a large-scale commercial production of soybean in Ebini, shortly. [National Agriculture Research & Extension Institute] NAREI has begun preparatory works to facilitate this investment,” GINA noted.

NAREI Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Oudho Homenauth stated: “Our focus at Ebini would be the development of a nursery, which will happen I suspect before the middle of the year… we have to go through the process of advertising and so on. We will also be expanding our orchard; that will be further increased by at least 10 acres.”

It was noted that this investment is expected to “significantly reduce” the amount of foreign currency expended on soybean (used in the production of animal feed) since it will be available locally. Guyana imports approximately 30,000 tonnes of animal feed per year.

Ramsammy’s Ruminations The Bar Association is wrong – we need legislation for the rights of LGBT citizens

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was disappointed when Christopher Ram, on behalf of the Guyana Bar Association, insisted that Guyana does not need any new legislation to guarantee the rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) persons. I am not a lawyer and I have no Dr Leslie Ramsammy desire to pick a fight with the lawyers. I simply want to urge Mr Ram and his colleagues to review their position.

The former Chief Justice, in one of his decisions involving a young transgender person, alluded to the fact that based on international treaties and conventions, the rights of homosexuals must be respected and fulfilled – homosexuality is a crime in Guyana. He asserted that the courts were obligated to treat homosexuality as a crime, even if it is unconstitutional. I surmised that the Honourable Chief Justice was saying that while the courts interpret and enforce the law, it is the Parliament that makes the law. In his view, the Parliament must correct the injustice by legislating to resolve the conflict that exists between the Constitution which recognises the rights of all citizens, but through a Constitution “savings clause” preserves the injustice of punitive laws directed against homosexual persons. The Supreme Court of India took a similar position.

The Parliament needs to legislate a constitutional amendment to remove the preservation power of the “savings clause” in the Constitution and to broaden the fundamental rights in the Constitution. When we failed to enact the original constitutional revision in 2000 that would have recognised the fundamental rights of people regardless of sexual orientation, we provided explicit rejection of the rights for the LGBT population. While nothing in our Constitution explicitly took away rights from LGBT persons, nothing in the Constitution protect people based on their sexual orientation. Legislation is needed to remove any ambiguity and to specifically recognise the fundamental rights of people who are equal to every other citizen. Religious people, the disabled, people of various ethnicities and race, etc, are protected, why not persons whose sexual orientation have been ignored?

Unfortunately, the only way to repeal the punitive laws against buggery and homosexuality is by legislating and this we must do now. The time has come for Guyana and Caricom countries to repeal those laws that stigmatise, discriminate and criminalise LGBT. Guyana is today one of about five countries in the world that in accordance with the law can sentence a person in the LGBT community to death for simply engaging in same-sex relations in the privacy of their homes.

How then can the Bar Association pronounce that we need no new legislation to guarantee LGBT persons their rights?

Indeed, 11 countries of Caricom are among just over 70 countries around the world that by law can sentence persons to jail for more than 10 years for just being a part of the LGBT community. Thousands of Caricom citizens are among millions of people around the world who continue to live in places that outlaw same-sex relationships and prosecute people for being gay. In five countries and in parts of two others, homosexuality is still punishable with the death penalty, while a further 70 imprison citizens because of their sexual orientation.

In the 9th and 10th Parliaments, Guyana placed the issue of decriminalisation on the table. In many ways, we were forced to do so by the United Nations Human Rights Commission.

Guyana under its human rights review was mandated to change our laws in a number of areas, including repealing the anti-gay laws and death penalty and banning beatings in schools. Incidentally, several other countries were similarly mandated by the UN Human Rights Commission. The 11th Parliament must not delay any further – we must act now.

Acting to guarantee fundamental human rights is not putting Government and the churches at odds. Our countries are deeply ingrained with the unshakable links between Governments and our faiths, our religious links. While Governments must fully respect the right of the churches to propagate their understanding of the morality, or immorality, of homosexuality, Governments cannot shirk their duty to ensure that all citizens, without exception, enjoy the full protection of the law. Our Constitutions uphold our rights to religious freedoms, but also affirm fundamental rights and the dignity of the individual human being, declaring that all persons are equal before the law and entitled to non-discrimination; to freedom from interference with their privacy; and to freedom from unlawful attacks on their honour and reputation.

Send comments to doc_ram@hotmail.com

news

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wednesDay, april 13, 2016 | guyanatimesGY.com

Fort Ordnance School to be used as emergency shelter

Canadian High Commissioner Pierre Giroux with Fort Ordnance Primary School Headteacher; CDC Director General, Colonel (Ret’d) Chabilall Ramsarup, and parents of some of the students

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n an effort to provide safe refuge for residents in cases of major emergency, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has collaborated with the Canadian Government to retrofit and equip the Fort Ordnance Primary School to be used as an emergency shelter.

The project titled “Enhancement of Emergency Shelter Capacity to Mitigate Flood Risk in Ordnance Fortland” will be funded with the $15 million that was awarded by the Canadian Government.

Fort Ordnance located in Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), is frequently flooded by torrential rainfall and high tides. The village, home to over 700 persons who are mostly self-employed, suffers significant losses in goods.

Children are particularly affected as most of the school’s compound is flooded during

the rainy season, preventing classes.

It is hoped that upon completion of the project through the support of the Canada Caribbean Disaster Risk Management Fund, the compound of the Fort Ordnance Primary School will be raised, the current sanitary block will be expanded to include additional toilets and baths, additional gutters and drains will be installed, the walkway will be expanded to accommodate vehicles and the bridge leading to the school will be reinforced.

Equipment including a refrigerator, microwaves, stoves, sinks and counters will be installed at the school to be utilised when the shelter is activated.

The project will also support the development of a protocol for the activation and management of the shelter and the training of a shelter management committee.

The Canada Caribbean

Disaster Risk Management Fund is part of Canada’s C$600 million Caribbean Regional Programme.

The Fund is designed to support Non-Governmental Organisations, community groups and Government agencies within Caricom in carrying out small-scale community projects to reduce the risks from the many natural hazards affecting the Region such as floods, droughts, storms, and hurricanes.

In addition to the Civil Defence Commission, the Government of Canada, through the Fund, is also currently supporting the Wowetta Women’s Group and the Kanuku Mountains Community Representative Group to increase the resilience of North and Central Rupununi against droughts – particularly through the establishment of two modern cassava processing and farine storage facilities.

DNA results ready for murdered British teen

– 3 murder accused granted bail

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lose to two months after several samples from the decomposed body of murdered British teen Dominic Bernard were sent to neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago for DNA testing, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum said the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has been informed that they are now ready for pick-up.

The Head of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) further related to Guyana Times on Tuesday that arrangements were currently being made to have the officer who took the samples for testing uplift the results. “We are hoping to get it (report) within the next few days,” Blanhum stated.

In February, samples taken from the body believed to be that of the missing British teenager were sent to the twin-island republic to confirm the identity of the body, which was found in a shallow grave at Alness Village, Corentyne, Berbice, the previous month.

The 18-year-old Bernard came to Guyana late last year to spend some time with his Godbrother Aaron Hing of Kildonan village, Corentyne.

However, he mysteriously vanished and his body was

British teen Dominic Bernard

found three months later, a few villages from where he was expected to spend his time.

After the teen had been reported missing by his father in January, local Police launched an investigation which led to the arrest of Hing and his friend, Staymon George. The duo subsequently confessed to beating and burying the young man.

They reportedly took some £2000 and the teen’s camera and video making equipment, some of which they allegedly sold while they disposed of others.

They later admitted that they had collected the teen from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport on October 14, 2015 and on

their way to Berbice, they stopped along Sheriff Street where they ate and drank a few beers.

As investigations continued, the Police arrested Jameel Sinclair who subsequently took law enforcement officials to an area behind Nurney Village and pointed out where he buried the teen’s camera and its components. Sinclair admitted that he was promised payment to hide the teen’s belongings on the night he was fatally beaten.

Shortly after, the Guyana Police Force charged Hing, 22; George, 23; Krystal Thomas, 20; Sinfinee Henry, 39, and Sinclair, 20, for the murder. They were remanded to prison on the indictable charge.

However, on Tuesday, Thomas, Henry and Sinclair were granted bail by the High Court after an application was filed on their behalf. The petition was heard and granted by Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Demerara High Court. Bail was granted in the sum of $300,000 each on the condition that they report to the Whim Police Station every two weeks, beginning this Friday if bail is paid.

AFC’s chairmanship had become difficult – Nigel Hughes speaks out

O

utgoing Chairman of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Nigel Hughes on Tuesday said he chose to give up his position in the party because it had become “difficult and untenable” for him.

Hours after announcing that he had resigned from the chairmanship of the smaller party in the coalition Government, Hughes took to social media, explaining that the post which he has held for close to four years now, had become difficult.

His Facebook post read “My continuing to act as Chairman of the party became difficult and untenable.

It has been a privilege and honour to have served in the capacity as Chairman of the party. Better Must Come.”

That Facebook post was the only explanation given by the Attorney for his move.

Hughes made the decision

Former AFC Chairman Nigel Hughes

to resign his post during a Statutory Committee meeting on Monday. While the statement published by the party immediately after did not give any specifics, it did indicate that the party’s leader and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan was expected to meet with Hughes, in the hopes that he (Hughes)

would reconsider his decision.

AFC insiders say the Attorney-at-Law quitted over a strongly-worded statement issued following an executive council meeting on Sunday, which called for a trimming of the powers of Minister of State Joseph Harmon.

That meeting was attended by neither Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman nor Ramjattan.

Another statement by the AFC followed, distancing both Ministers from the call by Hughes.

Hughes has been with the AFC since July 2011 and was elected Chairman on August 4, 2012.

Hughes’ wife, Cathy Hughes, currently serves as Minister of Public Telecommunications with responsibility for tourism within the A Partnership for National Unity/AFC coalition Government.

18

guyana-timesgy.com

WEDNESday, April 13, 2016

ARCHIE

Keep the peace. Don’t infringe on someone’s territo(March 21- ry at work or at home. Being April 19) open and up-front will help you avoid a dispute. Focus on self-awareness and personal improvements.

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dilbert

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CANCER

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(June 21July 22)

Delve into a project you feel passionate about pursuing. With a little thought and effort, you can make your life and surroundings more convenient and accommodating.

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Make a heartfelt attempt LIBRA (Sept. 23- to let someone know how you Oct. 23) feel. Finding out where you stand will enable you to make important decisions. Let the response you receive guide you.

SUDOKU TODAY’S WORD – CHAMPION

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You can learn a lot from PISCES (Feb. 20- observing how others handle March 20) confrontation. A practical, intelligent approach to anyone opposing your ideas will sway him or her to your way of thinking.

wednesDAY, aPRIL 13, 2016

19

Man City reach semi-finals West Indies U-19 World Champions sign as De Bruyne kills off PSG up for CPL franchises M — Moody expects emerging local talent to make “significant inroads” this season

S

anchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini's ambition of leaving them as kings of Europe moved a step closer on Tuesday when his side reached the Champions League semi-finals for the first time after a tense 1-0 win over Paris St Germain.

City sealed a 3-2 aggregate victory with a superb curling shot from Kevin de Bruyne with 14 minutes remaining of the quarter-final, second-leg.

It was the Belgium international's second goal of the tie after he netted City's opener in the 2-2 first leg draw in Paris last week.

Pellegrini, who is leav-

seasons, but now we have proved we deserve to be one of the best four teams in Europe."

RELATED COVERAGE

› The buck stops with me, says angry PSG coach Blanc The quarter-final has proved a stumbling block for PSG, who went out of the competition at that stage for the fourth successive season, leaving coach Laurent Blanc to rue what might have been.

"Our failure was both in last week's game and this week's," he said.

"We were not clinical enough over the two legs, we were not efficient

control and played some flowing passing football.

Blanc, without the suspended David Luiz and Blaise Matuidi, opted to start with a three-man back line of Thiago Silva, Marquinhos and Serge Aurier but switched to a 4-42 formation after Thiago Motta went off injured a minute before halftime.

Yet despite dominating possession, with Adrien Rabiot and Angel Di Maria linking well, PSG did not mount a serious attempt on goal, apart from a dipping free kick from Zlatan Ibrahimovic after 17 minutes which City keeper Joe Hart did well to tip away.

Anderson Phillip

ix stars from the victorious West Indies Under-19 squad will feature in the 2016 HERO Caribbean Premier League (CPL) after the franchises completed their player rosters for the forthcoming campaign.

Three players have been retained by their home teams; West Indies Under-19 captain Shimron Hetmyer (Guyana Amazon Warriors), fast bowler Alzarri Joseph (St Kitts & Nevis Patriots) and Gidron Pope (Zouks).

They have been joined by Anderson Phillip (Trinbago Knight Riders), Shemar Springer (Barbados Tridents) and Oshane Thomas (Jamaica Tallawahs).

As per CPL regulations, each franchise is invited to select one player from their

home country for the fourth edition of CPL, which will take place between from 29 June until 7 August 2016.

CPL International Director of Cricket Tom Moody said: “Firstly, on behalf of the CPL, I would like to pay tribute to the West Indies Under-19 squad for a superb campaign in Bangladesh which culminated in a thrilling victory over India earlier this year.

“It was hugely exciting to see so many promising players expressing themselves with an attacking mind-set and it certainly bodes well for the future of the game across the Caribbean. The CPL is committed to encouraging future generations of players and followers to the game and I have no doubt that West Indies cricket will reap the benefit this season and for many years to come.

“In making their selections, the six franchises analysed and scrutinised in great depth the available talent on display and conducted internal camps to assess the players up close.

It wasn’t a straightforward process, which is testament to the performances of the players.

“For those selected, this is another important step on their pathways and we wish each of them well in their preparations over the coming weeks and months ahead.”

Barbados Tridents: Shemar Springer, Guyana Amazon Warriors: Shimron Hetmyer, Jamaica Tallawahs: Oshane Thomas, St Kitts & Nevis Patriots: Alzarri Joseph, Trinbago Knight Riders: Anderson Phillip and Zouks: Gidron Pope. (CPL Release)

Manchester City scores to claim victory (Reuters photo)

ing at the end of the season to make way for Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola, last reached the semi-finals 10 years ago with Villarreal and now hopes to go one better by lifting the European Cup in Milan on May 28.

"This is a great achievement for the club, we played as a big, mature team and we deserved it," the 62-yearold Chilean told reporters.

"We were very unlucky to be drawn against Barcelona in the last 16 in the last two

enough and have paid the price by failing to qualify.

Manchester City were not spectacular but they deserved to win."

City should have taken the lead at the Etihad Stadium in the first half when PSG keeper Kevin Trapp brought down Sergio Aguero to concede a penalty, but the normally lethal Argentine fired his spotkick wide.

After a bright, attacking opening from City, PSG took

City came more into the match as their fullbacks Bacary Sagna and Gael Clichy became more adventurous and their slicker attacking approach play should have paid dividends when Aguero won the penalty.

The closest PSG came to a goal in the second half was when Ibrahimovic bundled the ball into the net in the closing minutes but was narrowly ruled offside. (Reuters Sport)

Kobe will “play more than he has all season” in final game –Scott

K

obe Bryant - a fivetime NBA championship winner - will retire following tonight’s game against the Utah Jazz.

Those tuning in to the Los Angeles Lakers' season finale hoping for max Kobe Bryant will not go unsatisfied.

Lakers coach Byron Scott is in the business of giving the people what they want.

So, when asked the burning question regarding Bryant's playing time in his final game at home against the Utah Jazz on

Wednesday, Scott said he plans to milk the 37-yearold for every last minute of his career before the fivetime NBA champion can ride off into retirement.

"He'll play more than he has all season long," Scott declared after Bryant played just 19 minutes in Tuesday's 112-79 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

"We were down 30 points.

I wasn't going to put him in for a minute. At the six-minute mark, or something like that, of the third quarter, he was coming toward the side-

Kobe Bryant

line and I asked him how he felt. He was kind of like, 'I'm all right.' I said, 'Well, let's just end this right now and just get you ready for Wednesday.' There was no argument whatsoever. He just knew that at that particular time, he was done."

Bryant maxed out at 37 minutes this season in a November game against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Scott already has gone on record about his desire to let the Lakers star run wild, "I almost just want to play him 48 minutes," he said Friday

— but that seems a tad unrealistic.

Bryant averaged just 27 minutes per game this season, and at some point there is only so much the old man can handle, as evidenced by his sideline Michelin Man impressions.

"No, stop that," Bryant scoffed at Scott's 48 minutes remark. "Unless you're playing on '2K.' That's about it."

A healthy estimation probably falls somewhere in the middle, just enough to give everyone their fill. (Digicel Sportsmax)

20

guyana-times.com

wednesDAY, APRIL 13, 2016

RCB flex batting muscle to crush Sunrisers By the numbers:

T

he sleeping giant that was IPL 2016 sprung to life in a high-scoring clash. Royal Challengers Bangalore blasted the first 200-plus score of the tournament in an emphatic 45run win over Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. In doing so, they also bucked the season's early trend of chasing teams prevailing.

AB de Villiers (82) and Virat Kohli (75) provided a visual treat courtesy a fine cocktail of fineness and brute force in a 157-run secondwicket stand, before Shane Watson announced himself by muscling three successive sixes in an over from Karn Sharma. The final flourish was lent by Sarfaraz Khan, who in his typically unorthodox fashion, paddled and reverse-paddled his way to an unbeaten 10-ball 35 as

T20 World Cup was the best ever

W

Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers punch gloves during their blistering partnership (BCCI photo)

Royal Challengers finished with 227 for 4.

Deflated and dejected, Sunrisers went for broke, wiping out 83 for the loss of Shikhar Dhawan in eight overs. David Warner, who

SCOREBOARD Royal Challengers Bangalore CH Gayle b Kumar 1 4 0 0 25.00 V Kohli* b Kumar 75 51 7 3 147.05 AB de Villiers c Morgan b Mustafizur Rahman 82 42 7 6 195.23 SR Watson c †Ojha b Mustafizur Rahman 19 8 0 3 237.50 SN Khan not out 35 10 5 2 350.00 KM Jadhav† not out 8 6 1 0 133.33 Extras: (lb 2, w 4, nb 1) 7 Total: (4 wickets; 20 overs) 227 (11.35 runs per over) Did not bat: STR Binny, Parvez Rasool, HV Patel, AF Milne, YS Chahal Fall of wickets: 1-6, 2-163, 3-183, 4-183 Bowling: A Nehra 2.1-0-21-0, B Kumar 4-0-55-2, Mustafizur Rahman 4-0-26-2, MC Henriques 4-0-41-0, KV Sharma 4-0-570, A Ashish Reddy 1.5-0-25-0.

Sunrisers Hyderabad innings DA Warner* c Milne b Watson 58 S Dhawan b Parvez Rasool 8 MC Henriques c Parvez Rasool b Milne 19 NV Ojha† c de Villiers b Chahal 0 DJ Hooda c de Villiers b Chahal 6 EJG Morgan not out 22 A Ashish Reddy b Watson 32 KV Sharma not out 26 Extras: (b 1, lb 1, w 9) 11 Total: (6 wickets; 20 overs) 182 Did not bat: A Nehra, B Kumar, Mustafizur Rahman Fall of wickets: 1-35, 2-86, 3-88, 4-93, 5-101, 6-147 Bowling : AF Milne 4-0-43-1, SR Watson 4-0-30-2, Parvez Rasool 4-0-31-1, HV Patel 4-033-0, YS Chahal 4-0-43-2.

returned to open after a brief flirtation in the middle order with Australia in the World T20, showed why he is one of the most feared white-ball strikers. He muscled three sixes and five fours in a 21ball half-century before falling into the short-ball trap laid by Watson.

The pressure of the required rate eventually got to Sunrisers and the chase went cold as the team lost Warner, Naman Ojha, Henriques and Deepak Hooda in the space of 17 deliveries, meaning they could only muster 182 for 6.

Parvez Rasool was the pick of Royal Challengers' bowlers, returning 1 for 31 in a crafty spell of offspin bowling, even as Watson and Yuzvendra Chahal, the legspiner, chipped away with two wickets.

Chris Gayle's dismissal for 1 in the second over of the match to Bhuvneshwar Kumar, when the ball brushed the thigh pad and deflected onto the leg stump, was a rare moment to cheer

for a listless Sunrisers bowling attack that was further depleted when Ashish Nehra, their pace spearhead, hobbled off the field after just 2.1 overs. That resulted in a batting feast for two men in a murderous mood as Royal Challengers blasted 139 off the last 10 overs.

The only semblance of respect from Kohli and de Villiers came early on when Mustafizur Rahman, making his IPL debut, troubled them with his cutters. Once the job of seeing off his initial burst - a two-over spell - was done, they let loose.

Sarfaraz's unbeaten 44-run stand off just 15 deliveries with Kedar Jadhav ensured Royal Challengers had momentum firmly by their side at the break.

Shikhar Dhawan's early wicket to Rasool was a setback for Sunrisers, but Warner's muscle kept his team in the hunt as Kohli rang in the changes in a bid to pull things back.

Adam Milne's second spell, in which he had Moises Henriques mistime a pull to midwicket, opened the game up. Once Royal Challengers had one foot in the door, it was a simple matter of forcing it open, which they did quite easily. In the end, even Ashish Reddy's big hitting was merely a footnote for Sunrisers in what was a forgettable outing. (Cricinfo)

hen Carlos Braithwaite swatted four consecutive sixes off Ben Stokes to give the West Indies their second World Twenty20 title on April 3, it may have been seen by more people than in any other of the competition's finals.

Every game had good crowds and the social media interactions suggested that the tournament may have been the best yet.

Tweets with #World T20 were viewed 5.75 billion times around the world, four times the amount in the 50over World Cup a year ago. It is estimated that there were 750 million views for online

TV. Many more also watched online.

Data produced by the Broadcasters Audience Research Board in the UK revealed that viewing numbers in Britain were significantly higher than those for previous tournaments. In 2014, just 255,000 watched the final between India and Sri Lanka.

The figures for the final of this year’s tournament are not yet available but 949,000 watched England's semi-final. This is up almost 50 per cent from the numbers who watched England’s last World T20 semi-final in 2010.

Meanwhile, 603,000

videos featuring match footage of the tournament, compared to 250 million during the 2015 World Cup, a considerably longer event.

The success of the Indian team, who were eliminated in the semi-finals by eventual winners the West Indies, also helped boost viewership and sales as the most advertising inventory for the final had already been sold before India were eliminated.

According to Broadcast Audience Research Council India, more than 80 million Indians watched the semifinal with West Indies, and India's matches against Australia and Pakistan on

watched India play Australia in the group phase, 378,000 watched South Africa lose to the West Indies, while 269,000 saw Afghanistan beat the West Indies. These numbers compare impressively with the 402,000 who watched India beat Pakistan in the 2007 final.

There was even better viewership during the early stages of the competition as 182,000 saw Scotland's match with Afghanistan on a Tuesday afternoon, a greater number than watched either semi-final or England's humbling by Netherlands in 2014. (Digicel Sportsmax)

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21 GOA supports national junior Table Tennis team T sports

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he Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) supported the national junior Table Tennis team that will be participating in the 2016 Caribbean Junior and Cadet Championships

KA Juman Yassin

in the Dominican Republic.

Members of the GOA that included President, KA Juman Yassin, Secretary General Hector Edwards and Garfiled Wiltshire, Honorary Treasure handed over a cheque for an undisclosed sum of money to the committee of the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) on Monday at the

the simple handing over ceremony.

The 2016 Caribbean Junior and Cadet championships began on April 12 and will last until April 18.

The championships

Godfrey Munroe

will be used as the qualifier for the Inaugural ITTF Pan American Junior Table Tennis Championships scheduled for Vancouver, Canada in June 2016, where the top four teams from the Caribbean will join four teams from Central America, six teams from South America along with USA and Canada.

Real seal another epic comeback with Ronaldo’s treble

C

ristiano Ronaldo's fifth Champions League hat-trick inspired Real Madrid to a 3-0 comeback victory over VfL Wolfsburg on Tuesday that clinched a place in the semifinals for a sixth successive season.

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National Gymnasium after the final training session for the squad.

Yassin said he was happy to support Guyana’s junior table tennis talents since he sees them as the future prospects to represent Guyana at the Olympic Games.

In his address to the players he opined the importance of merging academia with sports and ask of the players to give of their best in representing the Golden Arrow head.

Former Junior Table tennis champion and Caribbean squash Champion Wiltshire and former cycling champion Edwards also offered words of encouragement to the players.

The GTTA President, Godfrey Munroe thanked the executive committee of the GOA for their intervention which was seen as critical in making the teams’ participation at the event a reality.

“We feel the team selected has a very realistic chance of qualifying for the Pan American Championships to represent the Caribbean Region and has high chances medal /prospect at these Caribbean Championships,” were the words of Munroe at

champions, 2-0 down from the first leg, off to a perfect start by tapping in Daniel Carvajal's cross after 16 minutes and heading a second goal less than a minute later from Toni Kroos' corner.

Ronaldo capped a 3-2 win on aggregate when he curled in a free kick after 77 minutes, his 16th goal in this season's competition taking him within touching distance of his record of 17 in 2013-14.

He also equalled Barcelona rival Lionel Messi's record of five Champions League trebles as he took his goal tally in all competitions this season to 46.

"It's a day for celebration," said Real coach Zinedine Zidane. "We won with character, fight and effort and I'm very proud of the players.

"The sensation is of a job well done because it wasn't easy. It was a special night...I'm very happy with the players because they did a phenomenal job."

Opposite number Dieter Hecking kept the same lineup that served him so well at the Wolfsburg Arena.

GREAT FIGHTBACKS

Cristiano Ronaldo

Real have a reputation for staging great fightbacks

in Europe but they had not overturned a first-leg deficit in the Champions League since 2002 when Zidane, as a player, helped them beat Bayern Munich 2-0 at the Bernabeu after a 2-1 reverse.

The home team's intent was clear when defender Sergio Ramos headed the ball against the crossbar early on and they soon started turning the tie back in their favour.

Carvajal vindicated Zidane's decision when he beat Julian Draxler to the ball in midfield before setting up Ronaldo's opening goal.

Wolfsburg tried to recover and they missed a couple of chances to get on the scoresheet.

The 31-year-old Ronaldo, top scorer this season in La Liga and the Champions League, had different ideas though and he sent the Bernabeu crowd wild with delight by scoring twice more.

"People can criticise me but I just keep on going and the numbers are there for all to see," said Ronaldo.

"I am very happy and with a month left of the season I can get even better. It was not the best but one of my best European nights."

(Reuters Sport)

22

GUYANA-TIMES.COM

wednesDAY, APRIL 13, 2016

“Golden rewards” for Guyanese cricketing stars

By Akeem Greene

T

he Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) hosted a Dinner to honour the victorious Guyana Jaguars players, West Indies U-19 world champs and female World T20 champs on

rings and chains made of gold.

Speaking at the event, honorary secretary of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Anand Sanasie praised the work of all the players while noting that they should be proud of their

structure locally is improving.

The GCB Secretary said, “when I saw the report that came out of the tournament, concerning the under-19s and them touted as it regards aspects of leadership, I felt proud being a

The Guyana Jaguars pose with their rings (Marceano Narine)

The Under-19 players along with the Windies women received awards (Marceano Narine photo)

Monday at the Savannah Suite of the Guyana Pegasus Hotel in which the players were given championship

achievements; he also alluded to the fact that these results show that our cricket

Guyanese”.

The Leon Johnson led Guyana Jaguars won back-

to-back titles in the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Professional Cricket League (PCL) 4-day tournament, and more impressively playing 17 matches unbeaten in the tournament, received a Champion ship ring made of gold which has an emerald and the engraving of the two successful seasons.

The West Indies Under-19 trio of Captain Shimron Hetmyer, ViceCaptain Keemo Paul and Wicketkeeper/batsman Tevin Imlach, all received similar rings while the duo of West Indies Female World T20 Champions, Treymane

Over 100 graded at ASK-Guyana exercise

N

inth Dan Shuseki Shihan Frank WoonA-Tai, Founder of the International Karate Daigaku, on Sunday graded over 100 karatekas of Association do Shotakan KarateGuyana (ASKGuyana) at the YMCA building, Thomas Lands.

He was assisted by Sixth

Among the top movers were Hazrat Ali of Albion, who is a now a Fifth Dan; Fourth Dan Roger Peroune (YMCA); Second Dan KellyAnn Fortune, Minaskhi Pooran, Nicole Hohenkirk and Tabita Goolsarran, all of YMCA; and First Dan Jonathon Ramsuchit (New Amsterdam), Shakeem

Deokinandan, Romell Ograsein, Vinod Deonarine, Arya Ramessar, Rapheal Ograsein, Navindra Deonarine, Maria Baksh, Joel Dazzell, Stephon Fraser, Joel Kellman and Shine Haynes; (8 Kyu to 6 Kyu) Mustapha Ally, Aolione Griffith, Christopher Ramkissoon,

Chelcia Benjamin, Rameez Ramlill and Ashab Bacchus were promoted to 2 Kyu to 1 Kyu, 10 students were promoted to white/yellow belt; 15 were elevated to yellow; 29 to orange; nine to green; six to blue; seven to purple; 10 to brown (3 Kyu); 13 to brown (2 Kyu); four to brown (1 Kyu); and 13 to

Smartt and Shemaine Campbell received gold chains.

Attorney-at-law James Bond, representing the Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, echoed the words that “sport is the only thing that shows true cohesiveness and we must try to ensure that cricket continues to be a beacon of hope for Guyana”.

The Jaguars players to receive championship rings were: Leon Johnson: Shivnarine Chanderpaul; Vishaul Singh; Christopher Barnwell ; Raymon Reifer; Anthony Bramble;

Veerasammy Permaul Devendra Bishoo; Ronsford Beaton; Paul Wintz; Steven Jacobs; Robin Bacchus; Tagenarine Chanderpaul; Gudakesh Motie; Keon Joseph; Shimron Hetmyer, and Assad Fudadin.

Coach Esuan Crandon and Manager/ Assistant Coach Rayon Griffith also received championship rings.

Both Johnson and Smartt thanked the GCB for their recognizing their success and hoped that that gifts would continue to be given once there is the requisite success.

FIFA reaches deal with Greece to avoid international ban

F

IFA has reached a deal with the Greek government and Hellenic Football Federation (EPO) to restart the national cup competition and avoid an international ban, world

FIFA spokesman Kostakis Koutsokoumnis told reporters that Kontonis had agreed the EPO would ask for the Greek Cup to restart on Friday and that a deal would be done on how

FIFA logo outside its main office in Switzerland

Ninth Dan Shuseki Shihan Frank Woon-A-Tai (centre, front row) with the students at the YMCA building

Dan Sensei Amir Khouri and recently promoted Fourth Dan Sensei Roger Peroune.

ASK- Guyana Dojos from Linden, New Amsterdam, Albion, Blairmont, Land of Canaan, West Bank Demerara and Georgetown were graded by Shuseki Shihan, Woon-A-Tai.

Walcott (YMCA), Chelcia Benjamin (Land of Canaan), Rebecca Wesley (Land of Canaan), Ashab Bacchus (Albion), Rameez Ramlill (YMCA) and Oneika Ramsuchit (New Amsterdam).

Among the outstanding Kyu grade promotions were (10 Kyu to 8 Kyu) Pratush

Michael Webster and Kristine Ramkissoon; (7 Kyu to 5 Kyu) Amy Koosial And Shamariel Barker; (5 Kyu To 3 Kyu) Mortimer Giddings and Javed Baksh; and (4 Kyu to 2 Kyu) Daqon Garnett, Sean Wesley, Abdoul Diallo and Asaad Abdool.

While Rebecca Wesley,

Dan (Black Belt).

Clinton Moriah (New Amsterdam), Hazrat Ali (Albion and Blairmont), Laurence Lowe (Georgetown), Amir Khouri and Roger Peroune (YMCA) and Parmeshwar Persaud (Land of Canaan) were the instructors.

football's ruling body said on Tuesday.

The country risked suspension from international football if the government's decision to scrap the Greek Cup because of crowd violence was not reversed, and they were handed an April 15 deadline.

There was a pitch invasion that led to the abandonment of the semi-final first leg between PAOK Salonika and Olympiakos Piraeus on March 2, with fans hurling flares and missiles before being dispersed by riot police.

An agreement was reached ahead of the deadline after a FIFA delegation met Greek Deputy Minister for Sport Stavros Kontonis and EPO officials in Athens for talks.

the remaining games would be run to avoid security problems.

Koutsokoumnis, who is also president of the Cyprus Football Association, said: "The matches may be held outside Athens and/or without spectators, or perhaps with only schoolchildren in the stands.

"This is something which will be decided between Mr Kontonis and the EPO." A suspension would have risked Greece's hopes of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup as they could have been barred from taking part in the qualifiers that kick-off in September.

Greece, who won the European Championship in 2004, failed to qualify for Euro 2016 in France. (Reuters

Sport)

guyana-times.com

wednesday, APRIL 13, 2016

23

Pele’s poor performance Stag/EBFA Senior League… caused by internal KK Warriors trounce Grove; issues – Coach Soesdyke edge Mocha

P

ele Football Club who sits sixth on the Stag Elite League points table is finding it hard to please their fan base with their current poor performance in the second leg of the league.

Finishing second place in the first leg of the League, fans had the expectation of the club being in the upper echelon of the league.

Coach of the Pele Football Club, Justin Bentick, has classified, his team’s performance as being a “mental issue” since his players are not comfortable with their current situation.

Bentick who is on leave due to internal reasons for the last couple of months disclosed the team was having internal issues that were settled but not to the players satisfaction. He added his team is currently confused.

Bentick is expected to resume work shortly. Cecil Jacques who is currently coaching Pele’s team when contacted refused to comment on the issue.

Star player Gregory “Jackie Chan” Richardson who would have led his team to countless victories is currently playing poorly in the second leg which has translated to field of play as evident by their lack of wins.

This has prompted the suspicion that Pele is a one man show with Bentick defending “Jackie Chan”, “It is a mental issue that caused the corruption that we are trying to get resolved as soon as possible”.

Bentick highlighted his team discomfort is mainly associated with changes that involved governing the club.

This football club has

been experiencing internal issues since the beginning of the year that was published by this newspaper earlier in this year.

Nevertheless, Bentick is aiming for his team to be victorious in their remaining games that could place them in the top four to still capture the title along with the prize. The football team is currently working on restoring their pride and pleasing their fans again according to Bentick.

Pele is expected to have an encounter with the Guyana Defense Force (GDf) Football Club on April 15.

GDF is currently seven points ahead of Pele on the leagues table. Pele will be looking to have five out of six victories to have any chance of finishing fourth in the tournament.

K

uru Kururu Warriors recorded the biggest upset of the Stag/ EBFA Senior League to date when they handed defending champions Grove Hi Tech their first loss of the season whilst notching up their second win via a 2-0 score line in the feature match on Sunday last at the Grove Playfield.

Sunday’s opening match saw Soesdyke Falcons also recording their second win in four matches when they overcame Mocha Champs

Scott tormented the Grove defence for the entire 90 minutes with his first goal scored in the sixth minute when he beat goalkeeper Rondell Alleyne at the near post, the ball squeezing into the back of the nets in the little space provided at the right post.

The goal brought jubilation from the KK Warriors players, reserves and coach, Dale Roberts. But while they were sitting pretty ahead, the Warriors never lost sight of the task at hand and kept

ery effort was dampened by the energized Warriors as they romped to a big win but more importantly, three points.

Despite losing however, Grove still holds down the number one spot in the points table on goal difference ahead of Herstelling Raiders.

Soesdyke Falcons, led by goals from veteran Troy Johnson in the 25th minute, Captain Marvin Joseph in the 41st minute and another seasoned campaigner Collis

GT Beer 4-a-side KO football…

Tournament kicks off Thursday at Aracari Resort

T

he buzz is electric as popular football teams from the West Demerara District prepare for fiery battle in the GT Beer 4-a-side knockout football tournament, starting on Thursday night at the Aracari Resort at Plantation Versailles, West Bank Demerara.

The event will commence at 19:00h on Thursday, and will run concurrently on April 17 and 21, before concluding on April 23.

Starting Thursday night Sparta Boss will take on Parfaite Harmony A, with Water Street battling against Reggae Boyz.

DC Warriors will come up against Fix Time United, while Agricola will battle for supremacy against Boom Bang.

Team Admiral will compete with Parfaite Harmony B, with Traders tackling Jetty A and Team

Soesdyke Falcons goalscorers! From right: Collis Messiah, Troy Johnson and Marvin Joseph

Showstoppers engaging Bagotsville. Brothers United will take on Jetty B, whilst Comfort Ballers will surge up against Patentia Street Ballers.

Stewartville Gunners have vowed to demolish Team Speedboat, with

Samaroo Dam coming up against Vergenoegen.

The sponsors making this venture possible are GT Beer, Twisterz Digital Audio entity, Tina’s Variety Supermarket and the Aracari Resort.

3-2.

KK Warriors, also competing in the inaugural Beach Soccer League, wasted little time in establishing that they were out to grind the defending champions as they were playing minus three of their starters who were all suspended due to red card violations.

Ryan Scott, who has been displaying good form in both the 11-a-side and beach soccer leagues, was once again the man who would craft what can be described as huge win for the Linden/ Soesdyke Highway based side.

the pressure on the defending champions.

Grove did get behind the Warriors defence on a few occasions but lacked the potency upfront as they were constantly nullified.

The Warriors would double the advantage on 30 minutes when Scott fired in his and his side’s second of the match.

Poor defending yet again allowed the nippy and nagging Scott to get behind the defending champs back line as he tapped in the squared ball comfortably. Grove tried their best to pull themselves back into the match but ev-

Messiah in the 58th minute staved off a spirited late surge by Mocha Champs to win 3-2.

Both of Mocha’s goals were scored by Andel Anthony in the 57th and 67th minute, respectively.

Another potentially exciting double header is fixed for this Sunday when Grove will have the chance to restore some lost pride when they oppose Diamond United.

KK Warriors and Herstelling Raiders will set the afternoon’s play off at 13:30h in the first game and this will be a keen battle.

wednesDAY, APRIL 13, 2016

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

West Indies U-19 World Champions sign up for CPL franchises

— Moody expects emerging local talent to make “significant inroads” this season Pg 19

Shimron Hetmyer

Alzarri Joseph

Gidron Pope

Stag/EBFA Senior League…

KK Warriors trounce Grove; Soesdyke edge Mocha Pg 23

Ryan Scott of Kuru Kururu Warriors chests the ball in his bid to maintain control against Grove’s Nickolai Matthews on Sunday last

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