Guyana Times Daily - December 12, 2015

Racial incitement suit against Jagdeo quashed

saturday, december 12, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, december 12, 2015 |

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Saturday, December 12 – 05:30h-07:00h and Sunday, December 13 – 05:30h-07:00h.

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, December 12 – 16:55h-18:25h and Sunday, December 13 – 05:25h-06:55h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Sugar strike looms

– as 2015 API conciliation talks end in deadlock

BY KRISTEN MACKLINGAM

Another sugar strike looms as conciliatory proceedings between the Guyana Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) and Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) failed to reach a settlement on the Annual Production Incentive (API) with a ‘deadlock’ being declared.

Guyana Times understands that the second conciliatory meeting between the two parties commenced and concluded on Friday under the aegis of the Labour Ministry but ended without a settlement being reached in spite of the government’s efforts.

At this point in time it is unclear how sugar workers throughout the country will respond since no decision has been made thus far to their entitlements to this year’s API.

However, should they become incensed again about GuySuCo’s adamant position on the matter, there is a high possibility that workers at factories still grinding will down tools once more in disgust and frustration.

Meanwhile, GAWU is maintaining that the sugar entity remains unconcerned and “contemptuous” to the cause of its workers.

According to a media statement from the union on Friday, GuySuCo had not flinched from its stance of granting a day’s pay for every 85,000 tonnes of sugar.

GAWU posited that the sugar corporation’s claims of not being in a position to amend its offer as a result of its present financial situation are not “sincere”.

“The union in seeking to resolve the dispute submitted that some API payments could be paid during the course of the First Crop next year, noting that the Corporation will be receiving revenue from sugar sales during the period. GuySuCo paid no heed to this proposal and continues to be unconcerned and contemptuous to the cause of the sugar workers. GAWU noted that the Corporation’s offer which is about 2.6 days’ pay for the year’s production defies its contention that it lacks the

ability to pay,” the statement said.

Guyana Times understands the workers’ union is of the opinion that a settlement on Friday was possible with “just about” two additional days’ pay.

It must be noted that during this conciliatory meeting GAWU reminded that quite recently the workers’ took strike action which lasted for six days.

This was as a result of the thousands of workers becoming upset and disagreeing with GuySuCo’s position as they deemed the sugar entity to be “unfair”.

The weeklong strike had caused the corporation to lose millions of dollars which could have positively assisted in the resolution of the dispute, GAWU said.

However, when it became evident that there would be no amicable agreement on Friday, the Chief Labour, Occupational Safety and

Health Officer Charles Ogle in concluding his intervention towards having a settlement on the dispute, informed the meeting that he would provide a briefing to his Ministers Volda Lawrence and Simona Broomes, the union’s press release said.

“They would then have the opportunity to advice on the way forward, including to engage the parties with respect to finding a settlement.

The union before the meeting concluded, observed that this year for nearly three decades will be the first time sugar workers would not have been able to obtain a wage increase and obtaining a compensatory and acceptable API payment. Indeed, the workers would encounter a bleak and grim pe-

riod during the end of year holidays, including the commencement of the New Year,” GAWU contended.

In late November, thousands of sugar workers of GuySuCo from four of five operating estates and factories went on strike following the Corporation’s reluctance to come up with an acceptable ratio for the workers’ API. At that time, GAWU had reported that workers who took strike action were protesting what they deemed the ‘unreasonable’ offer made by the sugar company with respect to their API.

GAWU had proposed fiveand-a-half days API while GuySuCo offered two-and-ahalf days. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy.com)

Editor(ag): Michael Younge

Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Mining sector needs more policing

Mining accidents in Guyana have claimed the lives of at least 26 persons so far for 2015. It is unfortunate that in a modern era of growing advanced technology in all areas of functionality, our mining sector is lagging behind with improvements that will minimise deaths in the industry.

Statistics revealed that from 2012 to 2015, 62 miners, particularly young men, lost their lives on the job.

The spike in deaths in this industry prompted a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the situation as was ordered by President David Granger. Appallingly, that CoI’s findings highlighted that for a 15-month period, there were 28 deaths in the sector as a result of pit cave-ins. The CoI report went on to say that in most civilised societies, this would be considered scandalous and unacceptable.

Scandalous and unacceptable indeed, as these accidents were reported to have been caused by neglect of safe mining practices. The report recommended that the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) institute the proper framework in order to decrease the number of future accidents. Coming on the heels of the CoI, another miner on Thursday lost his life after a wall of the pit in which he was working collapsed and buried him alive.

The area where the miner died was targeted for inspection after a mining pit collapsed and killed 10 miners in May at Mowasi, Potaro, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni). Following that accident, operators/operations were briefed on safety issues and were encouraged to adopt a safety culture and regulatory compliance. It is obvious that these were either not followed or were never adopted, as this accident comes less than two months after Minister with responsibility for natural resources, Raphael Trotman, had mandated that the GGMC conduct more regular sweeps in all the mining districts, to ensure compliance with the mining and safety guidelines.

The Minister had also said that initiatives must be immediately implemented to include the sensitisation of miners and stakeholders, with respect to mining deep deposits while taking the soil type, ground water level and other geotechnical parameters into consideration. This, it was hoped, would aid in raising awareness and educating stakeholders on the proper procedures to be followed to avoid incidents that could lead to fatal accidents.

Recently, the CoI into mining deaths revealed that the GGMC did not focus capacity or strategy to ensure compliance with the established regulations.

This certainly means that although the GGMC is asking that miners be cautious and aware of the typical hazards in mining and to follow mining and safety regulations, there certainly needs to be a drastic change in the culture involving education and sensitisation at all levels, including miners, operators, property owners and regulators.

To request that workers simply be more proactive with respect to safety initiatives in not enough. The time has come for more legislative guidance from the GGMC. The time has come also, as was suggested in the CoI report, and it is necessary that everyone involved in the mining industry be certified and actively engaged in basic health and safety training on an annual basis. It is time also that those managers of active mining operations must have clear and certified Occupational Health and Safety (OSH) qualifications and be deemed competent, as required under the mining regulations. As such, the void between the safety regulations and the GGMC guides to health and safety needs to be filled. Additionally, the outdated pending draft regulations in the current mining situations locally need to be revised as was also recommended by the CoI.

Considering the number of miners who died in their pursuit of gold, there is indeed need for Employers Liability Insurance to be in place as was recommended by the CoI, in order to provide a mechanism for compensation for family and dependants, with clearly defined guidelines for implementation.

Alexander is attempting to distract public’s focus

Dear Editor, GECOM Commissioner Alexander in a reply to my recent letter pointing out that the withdrawal of the application to the courts to have the application filed, on CEO Lowenfield’s behalf, to strike out the Ganga Persaud Elections Petition, would have been a better course of action by GECOM so as to allow for a full hearing and determination in the courts, suggests my “rethink” of my “conflict of interest” in the matter as a GECOM Commissioner.

Mr Alexander’s response has, in the main, been predictable in his patently obvious attempts to distract the public’s focus from the pivotal issues raised by the Motion at GECOM.

I wish to point out that at no time during the formal ta-

bling and debate on the Motion, inclusive of a week’s “cogitation” by Chairman Surujbally, was the question of the arising of a conflict of interest noted or discussed. Least of all by Commissioner Alexander! It should be of some interest as to why Mr Alexander is now raising this issue, post facto, when he had the fullest opportunity to enter it into the debate if he considered it material and fatal at the time.

Surely, it could not have been that Mr Alexander was assuredly and supremely confident in an expectation of the direction Chairman Surujbally’s casting vote in the obvious presence of a division at the meetings! One can only conclude that any issue of conflict was not considered material, or relevant, then, and it remains so now.

However, Mr Editor, the issues raised by Mr Alexander are moot when one considers the two larger and over arching grave matters implicit out of the discussions of the failed Benn Motion, to which Mr Alexander ascribes an “ulterior” motive. I repeat these for emphasis.

Firstly, do the electorate, stakeholders, and the public at large have any right to the fullest, or any elucidation and determination by a court process of the Ganga Persaud Elections Petition?

And, secondly, would it not be of immense benefit to GECOM, and for our evolving electoral democracy, if a full, and dispassionate, court review helps to, significantly, improve public perceptions of its systems, conduct and practices with respect to its mandate?

REOs nightmare

Dear Editor,

The Regional Executive Officer (REO) of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Veerasammy Ramayya, is right on course with his display of lack of competence and complete baggage of arrogance in fulfilling his basic job functions.

As the Chief Accounting Officer, he continues to embarrass himself and the Government when he allegedly accused staff of the Works Department of Region Six of stealing fuel without submitting an iota of evidence to support his spurious and wild allegations.

For the past few days he has successfully shutdown the Works Department, forcing at least 11 operators to sit idly in the compound at Whim, Corentyne doing absolutely nothing but their pay cheque is intact. This is what the

Alliance For Change loves to talk about – taxpayers monies going down the drain! This REO was given a 100 per cent salary increase to guarantee incompetence.

This REO had done the same thing at Skeldon Hospital when he allegedly refused to pay the supplier for fuel, thus forcing the ambulance service to shut down due to the lack of fuel. This matter was raised at an Regional Democratic Council’s (RDC) statutory meeting which again saw the absence of this REO. It was also alleged that a patient died on his way to the New Amsterdam Hospital simply because he could not have been transported by an ambulance in a timelier manner. This same REO was vociferous in his criticism of the Administration of health care under the previous Government!

The same situation occurred when he again allegedly stop the fuelling of pumps to assist the farmers at Black Bush Polder. Fortunately the rains came and saved the day.

The REO of Region Six needs to understand that if he feels fuel theft is taking place, then as the Chief Accounting Officer, he needs to put an accounting system in place with the pre-requisite checks and balances to ensure that such theft is captured and the perpetrators are brought to justice once the system provides the required evidences. However, this REO lacks the required accounting and auditing qualifications and experience for this job. But since he cannot be replaced because of his political qualification and experience, then the coalition should hire a qualified accountant to advise him.

The Public Health

If there is an “ulterior motive” I may have, revolving on these two issues, I hope Mr Alexander states them publicly as enquiring minds ought to know what he avows he knows. I, however, will not dare, at this time, to ascribe to Mr Alexander any “ulterior motive” but simply to note his rush to deflect an understanding of the Motion and stridently defending an attempt at preventing a full hearing of the Elections Petition.

In closing, it is not my interest to engage in “last lick” in the media but to await the determination of the matter in the courts and, especially, in the court of informed public opinion.

Yours sincerely, Robeson Benn, Commissioner GECOM

Minister had defended another political appointee’s lack of qualification by saying that a high qualification is not needed to do ‘simple things’. Will the Minister of Communities conclude likewise?

In conclusion, Mr Ramayya has no respect for the RDC and since his appointment he has never attended a single statutory meeting as the Clerk of the Council to apprise himself of what is actually taking place in the region. This will greatly accentuate his incompetence and ignorance of the many issues affecting Region Six. How long will the region suffer? I do feel that another NoConfidence Motion is in order!

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf RDC Councillor, Region Six

Ramson should adopt a solution-oriented approach

Dear Editor,

I refer to the letter published in your December 9 edition by Charles Ramson titled ‘Government wrong about Sovereign Wealth Fund’. The author suggested that a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) is not what is needed in Guyana without giving ‘justifiable’ reasons why.

He has completely discounted the reality of the disease (which has crippled many economies), suggest-

ing that it is “over referenced and universally false”.

From the letter, it is pellucidly evident that he lacks pedestrian knowledge of the Dutch Disease phenomenon and the role of a SWF. As a legislator, one ought to be knowledgeable before pronouncing on matters of national interest.

There is no paucity of Dutch Disease literature; therefore his ignorance is highly unacceptable. It is of-

ten asked why resource rich nations continue to do more poorly than nations without resources. Simply put, the answer is improper management of the resources and its proceeds. We have an unborn oil sector with lots of unveiled potential. In fact, it can be Guyana’s passport to prosperity, once used prudently. Further, we have the perfect opportunity to get it right, and secure wealth for this and future generations.

The A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change Government must be commended for wanting to establish a Sovereign Wealth Fund.

Of all the measures that are taken to make a nation immune to the Dutch Disease, establishment of a SWF should be top priority. It should be noted that a SWF has many purposes and is not limited to investment and budgetary stabili-

West Indies should recall Chanderpaul

Dear Editor, West Indies, on tour in Australia for a three-test series, is without its most prolific run scorer Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who has been left out of the team because of underperformance. Yet, almost all the others on tour have performed worse than Chanderpaul in recent matches. The team lost its two warm-up games performing badly and the test performance is not expected to be any better. If Chanderpaul were with the team, he would have strengthened the middle order and be a psychological boost to the youngsters to stand up and bat rather than cave in meekly. In addition, his presence would have put fear in opponents troubling them to make various errors to benefit WIndies players bowling and batting. Chanderpaul should be immediately recalled to the team to give it a chance down under.

In a news report in the Australian media, Cricket Australia has lamented the weak team touring Australia and absence of star player Chanderpaul on the squad for the three test matches. The name Shivnarine Chanderpal, popularly called Tiger or Chanders, has re-

verberated in ears of cricket lovers for over 20 years.

The current team on tour is one of the weakest to tour Down Under with no player having any reputation to trouble the Aussies or stand up strongly to their pace attack. Only Chanderpaul has the reputation to stand up to Australia; he has consistently done it time and again during several tours Down Under as well as in the West Indies.

But this is not to be as Clive Lloyd and West Indies management has decided to prematurely end Chander’s career. He wanted one more chance to end his career and pleaded for it. But Lloyd and his selectors said no; they don’t want Chanderpaul to break Brian Lara’s record as the highest run getter. It can’t be that he is not in the squad because of poor performance; no one else in the team has performed. He has a greater reputation than the entire team combined.

Attendance at the warm-up game against the Australia President’s eleven was very low and the match ended early with WIndies defeated by 10 wickets. Attendance will not improve by much in the tests without a star attraction to bring in

the spectators.

Virtually no cricket analyst gives the WIndies any hope of winning during the tour and the team has started on a losing note. WIndies has not won a series in Australia since 1992. The WIndies have been completely written off even before a ball has been bowled. It is felt that if Chanderpaul were on the team, he would have provided strength to the middle order and psychological support to the team.

Chanderpaul is a revenue earner for West Indies and world cricket. He brings money to the game (with sponsorship, ads, viewership, attendance, etc) to WIndies and to Australia and broadcasters in general. The fact that he is so close to breaking Brian Lara’s record means spectators would come to the matches or watch him bat on TV – good for travel business, hotels, etc. In addition, people would have tuned in to see if Chanders breaks the record. But Lloyd and his bunch of incompetent prejudicial selectors are not concerned about revenues via attendance or sponsorship. They just want to deny Chanders the glory of breaking the world record.

West Indies fortunes are declining. The board is virtually bankrupt. It needs money. The team and the world need the Chanders brand to romp up revenues. His contribution to West Indies cricket isn’t over in terms of revenues; sports clubs vie for his presence in Dubai and England. He has earned the right to say goodbye to international tours in a decent way. Chanders should be recalled for a farewell tour of Australia to allow him to say goodbye to fans and cricket colleagues.

Yours faithfully,

sation, as the author wants the public to believe.

Additionally, it should be made clear that the SWF will benefit Guyanese of today, directly and indirectly, while simultaneously taking future generations into consideration.

The establishment of SWF seeks to prevent overheating of the economy and exchange rate appreciation, while expanding the national revenue base to benefit multiple generations of citizens. Saving abroad serves to reduce the excess supply of foreign currency that will be in the economy in the form of domestic currency. This measure is necessary to control excess demand, which is likely to manifest and deteriorate the expenditure structure of the economy, that is, consumption expenditure, which is likely to place upward pressure on the prices of commodities in the services sector.

SWFs adopt an intertemporal approach, and not careless and extravagant spending as if there is no tomorrow. The “Permanent Income Approach” criterion is normally utilised to guide fiscal policy. The approach recommends that fiscal spending of resource revenue be limited to a calculat-

ed constant real amount, and the rest be saved abroad. When the resource has been depleted, the Government can then withdraw from its accumulated savings to continue spending the same constant real amount.

Revenues are then reinvested in physical capital and, to a greater extent, human capital. Resources are channelled into infrastructural development, education, and research and development in a sustainable fashion. A comprehensive and sustainable scholarship scheme should be implemented to aid in the development of the human capital. This act can be seen as investing the revenue from today’s natural resources into the development of tomorrow’s human capital.

Mr Ramson should adopt a solution-oriented approach. It would be wise for him to divorce himself from the narrow politics at this point and aid, in whatever way he can, in getting Guyana onto the right path to sustainable development, even if it’s simply by constraining himself from misinforming the public.

Yours faithfully,

Elton Bollers

Page Foundation

BY DEBBIE PINCUS

Most couples have experienced this situation at one time or another – you think you should discipline your child a certain way, and your spouse wants to handle it differently. You each become entrenched in your position, and that’s when the fighting starts.

At some point, most couples will argue over how to discipline their children. After all, you and your spouse are different people who will naturally approach parenting differently at times – or maybe more often than you’d like. Understand that some disagreement is to be expected. Marriages, after all, are unions between people from different family backgrounds and beliefs, which can easily lead to parental tensions.

Let’s stop here for a minute and make an important distinction between having different beliefs and communication styles versus not being able to agree on what decisions to make regarding your children. Since we are not the same people, we will each have our own style of relating to our children. You might be very talkative and like to chat while your spouse might be quieter and more reserved around your child. Both styles are okay. It’s the differences around parental decisions regarding a child that can be problematic.

punished harshly for lying while your spouse feels that lying isn’t a big deal. As a result, you react differently and aren’t on the same page when it comes to consequences. Here’s the truth: Children can sense when their parents aren’t in

it a rule that if one parent disciplines the children, the other parent must back them up, even if they do not agree. If you don’t do this, it will show your child that his parents are not a unified team and undermine your

child will feel the lack of unity between you, which can create a feeling of instability for him. This will also give children an opening; they will sometimes use it to provoke a fight. This gets your child off the hook and turns parent against parent. Disagreements between parents can cause minor flareups or a serious all-out war in your household. Following these 10 simple guidelines can help you to avoid battles when it comes to raising your children.

For example, let’s say you believe your child should be

1. Provide back-up. Make

see that he can get around any parenting decision you make. (Note: this does not apply to parents who neglect or abuse their children. If you feel that something your spouse is doing is detrimental to your children in some physical or emotional way, then you need to put your foot down and say, “I can’t go along with this.” Then take the necessary steps to make sure your child is safe.)

2. Arrive in the same place. Find a way to arrive in the same place on how to proceed with your child. Be aware that your fights over how to raise

your children are disturbing to your children. Children don’t like to see their parents not getting along, and these battles can have long-term effects. Understand also that every time you argue with your mate over parenting, the focus shifts away from your child. Rather than teaching your child how to behave and problem solve, the focus instead becomes parent against parent. Back one another up in the moment, even if you don’t fully agree. Later, when things are calm, (and you’re out of earshot of your child), you can discuss better ways of handling the situation with your spouse, and then present a unified

3. Who feels most strongly about the issue at ? If you and your spouse really are on different pages on something and neither person can get to the other side of the issue, then the parent who feels more passionately about it might make the call. Let’s say, for example, that you’re okay with your 12-yearold going to a sleep over at a good friend’s house, but your spouse is still fearful of allowing your child to have that kind of independence. You might say, “I feel so strongly about this. I’d really like you to support me on this, even if you don’t see it the same way.” Or, “Can I ask you to go along with me on this one, even if you don’t agree?” Or, “I can’t say for certain that this is the best decision, but my gut is telling me to give it a try. Can you support me on this?” (www. empoweringparents.com)

Like a hapless hiker suddenly standing between a mother bear and her cubs, you may find yourself being attacked (seemingly) without provocation by your partner over some random parenting task, like changing a diaper or reading a bedtime story. It can be subtle, like the passiveaggressive, “What I would do is…” Or it can be more direct, like the “You’re doing it all wrong.” From there, it’s a downward spiral of constant monitoring, undermining your authority, and generally making you feel worthless.

This is what couples counselling pros like Laura Silverstein of Main Line Counselling Partners call “gate keeping.” And, while two minutes of therapy is rarely enough to accomplish much, gate keeping isn’t that complicated, even though it’s awfully common. Here are Silverstein’s tips on getting past the gatekeeper (also known as your spouse).

Create space to talk things over Never mind that Oxford’s word of 2015 is “emoji” –face to face communication is the only way to stop the cycle of criticism. “Face-toface” doesn’t mean “When you’re wrestling a three-yearold out of pajamas in the morning,” or “When your wife is showering, and you’re on the toilet” (not that that ever happens). “When you talk about it on the fly, it’s more likely to be accusatory,” says Silverstein. “When you’re both consciously deciding to talk

about it, it goes much better.”

Don’t be so defensive

Nobody likes to be told they’re doing it wrong, so when you’re doing a great job washing your child’s hair and your partner think you’re water boarding them, it’s natural to get a little defensive. So take a break and cool off before reengaging, so the conversation can be explanatory instead of accusatory. Silverstein says she’d counsel your partner “to be saying it in a request manner: ‘This is why I’m uncomfortable with this tiny little thing,’ and not a global, ‘You’re irresponsible’ or ‘You don’t do anything right.’”

Assuming Silverstein isn’t at home to tell your partner this, ask them yourself: “Why are you uncomfortable with what I was just doing?” And if Silverstein is at home to tell your partner, why are you reading this?

“Remind yourself, ‘My partner doesn’t think I’m an idiot, it’s their child as well as mine, and they just want what’s best.”

Hear what they’re saying, say it back

“People want to feel like they’re listened to and taken seriously,” says Silverstein. “Respond in a non-defensive manner, and validate what the other person is saying. You’re not required to say yes to what anybody asks you. But you are required to think about it. Try it on for size and [see it] you can meet their request with generosity.”

Note: Saying, “You’re right honey, I should never wash the kid’s hair again” is not meeting their request with generosity.

What’s the worst that can happen?

If your partner honestly thinks that your child will be hurt in your care, then you have bigger issues than can be solved in two minutes. Assuming that’s not really the case, ask them what they think could go wrong with the way you’re doing whatever it is you’re doing that precipitated this fight – just do it in a sincere way and not a sarcastic one. Because you’re never sarcastic. (That was sarcasm.)

Set up some parameters

Parenting isn’t done by committee, it’s done through trust. Once you both agree that they’re not calling Child Services on you, make the conversation about what common rules can be put in place so that you’re both on the same page about as many day-to-day decisions (about naps, food, screen time, how many beers are appropriate on a Saturday, etc) as possible, so neither of you have to make too many decisions on the fly. Because decisions on the fly are frequently bad decisions.

(Yahoo! News)

2016 LGE…

US to initiate young political leaders programme

With Local Government Elections (LGE) set to commence early next year, the United States Embassy here said it is set to commence its young political leaders programme by January 2016.

US Ambassador Perry Holloway on Thursday told Guyana Times that the programme which begins some two months before the scheduled date for LGEs will primarily deal with voters’ education and encouraging persons to go out to vote.

“We wouldn’t be starting till January and it’s primarily voters’ education and getting people to go out and vote. It has nothing to do with any political party, just encouraging young people to go out and vote, saying young people, here is your opportunity to make a difference, have a say”, Holloway told Guyana Times in an invited comment.

Other parts of the programme include youth at risk, improving their situation and providing information on job security.

The US Government earlier this year, announced a new aid programme valued at some US$750,000 that will be used to fund the young political leader programme.

The new programme will replace the controversial LEAD project, which was implemented under the Donald Ramotar Administration some two years ago, and which came to an end earlier this year.

Last year, Chief-of-Party of the LEAD Project Glen Bradbury held a number of consultations, including

town hall meetings across Guyana. There, Guyanese were said to be a part of the advancement of democracy; the objective of the International Republican Institute (IRI) which was at the forefront of the LEAD project.

The IRI has also been instrumental in offering assistance to the National Council of Youth, carrying out numerous training sessions with youth groups across the country. The other aspects of the LEAD project included women and gender groups, local government and the National Assembly.

The US embassy had reported late last year that the USAID and IRI had held dialogue with a wide crosssection of stakeholders to implement the programme’s activities in key areas.

Other parts of the programme include youth at risk, improving their situation, and providing information on job security.

Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt told this publication recently that his Government remains committed to working with the new Government to find ways of supporting democracy and governance.

He had indicated that discussions on the parameters of possible future programming were at the time on stream. The LEAD project had as its main focus, supporting stakeholders’ efforts to promote effective and responsive democratic institutions and the strengthening of political and consensus-building processes and skills through programmed components.

Region 6 health care facing tumultuous times

Concerns continue to mount over the delivery of health care in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

After raising several issues on the operation of the New Amsterdam Hospital, Head of Region Six Health Committee Haseef Yusuf has again raised more concerns, this time with the National Psychiatric Hospital, at Fort Canje, Berbice.

Yusuf told Guyana Times the committee, on November 19 last, made a “fact finding” visit to the hospital where he said members were appalled by the “unbearable and inhumane conditions under which both patients and employees struggled to exist”.

According to him, Dr Norton, when he visited the hospital on June 3 was confronted with the same conditions, however, the situation remains the same.

According to the Health Committee head, the issues range from poor storage of supplies in the stores to the inoperable canteen which was completed some four

years ago. Other issues include the presence of asbestos in close proximity to the kitchen; an unprotected gas tank close to the kitchen; delay in processing purchase orders; an acute shortage of basic items in the kitchen; leaking roof in wards, nonworking fans; among other things.

He noted too that nurses and staff pointed to their meagre take-home salary which stands at some $43,000 along with a risk allowance of $450 per month. In addition, he said the nurses reported that they receive just around $15,000 per year

as uniform allowance.

“These people face serious risks from mentally ill patients in addition to poor security system, yet they are paid just a pittance while Dr Norton and his colleagues are getting 50-100 per cent salary increases with trained security personnel”, Yusuf complained.

He described the conditions as ‘disgraceful’.

Efforts to contact Dr Norton for a comment were unsuccessful, However, in an earlier interview with Guyana Times and addressing issues at the New Amsterdam Hospital, he

said he had instructed that measures be put in place to deal with the mounting issues. These instructions were given to the Director of Health Services of the Region Jevaughn Stephens. Stephens has already come under criticisms for what was described as his inefficiency to perform, particularly because he is not qualified for the post he holds.

Asked about this, Norton said while the position requires that the ideal candidate possess at least a Masters Degree in Public Health, many persons in the various regions filling this post do not have such qualifications.

He however told this publication that Stephens is able to handle the job. He said apart from the issues in the Neonatal department, Stephens was also instructed to address some other infrastructural issues of the hospital. He was sure to point out that one does not need a master’s degree to address these “simple things”.

saturday, december 12, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

“Expensive cuff” lands friends in court

Afight landed two friends before the court on Friday after a single punch saw one of them undergoing reconstructive surgery.

The men – 23-year-old Lawrence Barnes of Lot 13 Haley Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown and the Virtual Complainant (VC) Shivaraj Parmanand appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in Court One of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where Barnes was charged with malicious wounding.

The accused was not required to answer to the indictable charge which read that on Friday, December 4, at Durban and Henry Streets, Georgetown, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded the Virtual Complainant with the intent to maim, disfigure, disable or

to cause him grievous bodily harm. The Administration of Justice Act was applied and Barnes pleaded guilty with explanation.

According to the facts presented by Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones, the two parties are known to each other as they have been friends for a number of years. He related that on the day in question, at about 19:00h, both individuals were imbibing alcohol at the same location when a heated argument ensued between the two over a bottle that was thrown in the VC’s direction.

The accused dealt the VC two punches to his face causing injuries. The VC was required to undergo emergency surgery to his right eye. He also suffered a fractured bone. A report was made and Barnes was arrested and charged.

The accused agreed to the facts, adding that he was provoked. He related that on the occasion, he was present at the scene where the VC was drinking with his friends. He stated that the VC went to urinate next to a lantern post which was located next to a garbage heap.

He said that he saw an empty bottle which he threw into the heap, much to the annoyance of the VC who assumed he was attempting to throw it at him. He told the court that Parmanand then rushed up to him and started pointing his fingers in his face and left a short while later. He said the VC then returned with a friend and proceeded to surround him.

He claimed that he felt threatened and dealt the VC a punch to his face, which

resulted in the VC’s companion attacking him. He said he dealt a second blow to the VC and then escaped in fear for his life.

He told the Magistrate that he regrets the unfortunate incident and would be compensating the VC for his medical bills, which is in a sum of $240,000.

The VC agreed that the accused was telling the truth in his version of the story. The Magistrate reprimanded both of the men, reminding the accused that although it was one punch, “it was an expensive punch”.

She ordered the accused to compensate the VC with $50,000 on or before December 18 or risk an alternative of four weeks in prison. She also advised that they make a written agreement for the outstanding compensation.

Golden Grove resident remanded for armed robbery

Aman was on Friday remanded to prison after he appeared before Magistrate Ann McLennan in Court One charged with armed robbery and possession of narcotics.

Trevor Daly, 24, father of one of 118 Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, de -

nied the allegation which read that on December 7, at Croal Street, Georgetown, while in the company of others and armed with a knife, he robbed Damien Bailey of $80,000 cash, a Galaxy S3 cellular phone, phone cards, a wallet and two gold rings, all to a value of $248,000.

He also denied the allegation which read that on December 9 at Croal Street, he was found in possession of 10 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking. The details surrounding the charges were not revealed in Court.

Bail was objected to and the Magistrate remanded

Payback

…on REO’s

The PPP had been outsmarted by Hamilton Green. And though trick’d been done once, it was like the gift that keeps on giving. In a three-way split in the Georgetown elections for Mayor (does anyone still remember back then!), a power sharing arrangement was worked out. And this was back in 1994 when Mandela was opening his heart (and government) to his enemies of yesterday.

So PNC got first dibs in year one, Green – who’d been kicked out from the PNC and had formed his GGG party – got the next nod. And the PPP rubbed their hands in glee, thinking how they’d work flat-out for the burghers of Georgetown so they’d switch sides –at the exit general elections. Hope beats eternal!!

Anyhow, they held their breaths for a year - until Green snickered “Fooled ya, suckers!!” And remained as Mayor for the next two decades. But the PPP was burning something fierce- smoke were coming out their noses - and ears! Under the rules of the game they could however appoint the Town Clerk – who, they pointed out was like the REO in the Local Government system – and most pertinently, controlled the purse strings.

the man to prison.

He will appear in Court 10 for the robbery charge and Court 11 for the possession of narcotics charge on January 6, 2016.

Kitty man before court for unlawful wounding

Avendor was on Friday brought before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged for wounding.

Yusuf Mohammed, 47, vendor of 41 William Street, Kitty, Georgetown, was not required to plead to the indictable charge which read that on December 5 at Georgetown he unlawfully and maliciously wounded the Randy Singh. The Administration of Justice Act (AJA) was applied and the accused entered a not guilty plea.

The Court heard that on the day in question the two men were imbibing alcohol when an argument arose. This led to a physical altercation, during which Mohammed dealt Singh several lashes and a slap which lead to lacerations to Singh’s right ear and side of his forehead.

The Magistrate placed Mohammed on $50,000 bail, which was reduced to $20,000 after several pleas.

He was ordered to return to Court on January 12, 2016. He was also ordered not to go within 50 feet of the VC for the duration of the Court matter.

And so for a couple of years (seemed like a century to the PNC and Green, who’d mended fences by then) the PPP appointed one tough cookie - Carol Sooba as the Town Clerk to exact revenge. Well, let’s not even mention how she bitchslapped Green, Green and King! Sooba treated them soooooo-bad!! But they do say, payback’s a bitch, don’t they. As soon as the elections were won by APNU/AFC, out went Sooba like a tureen of sour soup.

But APNU/AFC didn’t stop there. Even though they’d argued as to how “anti-national” and “low down” the PPP wer when they pulled their Sooba stunt - they merrily went on not only to place a hack into City Hall’s Town Clerkship –they appointed “quasi political”’ (to quote the Minister of the Presidency) as REO’s in all the Regions. So in the seven regions the PPP won – war of attrition’s being waged between the PPP Reg Chairmen and the APNU/ AFC REO’s. They make the Sooba-King bouts look like kids playing “pattacake pattacake!” The most egregious stunts are committed in Reg 6 where the Nagamootoo appointed (“buyback”?) Ramayah’s throwing his weight around like the proverbial 600 pound gorilla.

And like that creature, Ramaya doesn’t care who gets hurt when hundreds of millions aren’t spent on the folks of Reg 6.

After being humiliated by Charanrass for the MP position, he just wants to show “he is maan”!

…on the judiciary

Now your Eyewitness kinda understands why APNU/AFC did what they did on the REO appointments – they couldn’t afford to have the PPP look good, with local government elections around the corner. All’s fair in love and war, no? But to begin messing with the judiciary? C’mon now!

After criticising the PPP for years for not having a substantive Chief Justice and a Chancellor of the Judiciary – a situation they created by exercising their veto power –they’ve just gone and done the same thing by appointing an “Acting Chief Justice” to replace the departing “Chief Justice”! How cynical can you get?

But in a climate when their backs are against the ropes with all the self-inflicted body blows they’ve landed – they didn’t have the guts to play some real hardball politics. They’ve could’ve attempted to appoint a Substantive Chancellor and force the PPP’s hand to veto it and get “bad name”.

As it is they’ve just managed to land another blow to their own solar plexus

…on de Chronic

The NEW Chronicle ran a half page story about one of their crime reporters being stared down (“confronted”) by some “burly women”. Breaking not just “new” but “virgin” territory here guys!

Hope Nagamootoo (he still has this portfolio, doesn’t he?) gives this monument to manhood a medal!

State forensic audits:

Goolsarran's "audit" lacks credibility and integrity – NICIL

The forensic audit report into the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) lacks credibility and integrity, and the recommendations against the holding company is shrouded with biasness and prejudice.

Guyana Times was able to obtain a report which contained NICIL's response to the forensic audit which was conducted by former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran on behalf of the Government.

In the report, NICIL is contending that the findings and recommendations in the document are compromised and jeopardised as a result of the prejudicial impacts stemming from Goolsarran being sole-sourced as the forensic auditor of the state entity.

The audit report has recommended criminal and/or disciplinary actions against all those responsible for violations, including failure to properly account for state resources under their control.

But NICIL in refuting the findings stated the audit report does not point to any instance of a constitutional breach

But NICIL made the point that Goolsarran, in the report, recognised that from 1991 to 2001, it transferred $3.415 billion to the Consolidated Fund. Between 2002 and 2012, over $12 billion was paid as dividends from NICIL to the Consolidated Fund.

Added to that, NICIL contends that Goolsarran’s position as former Auditor General and now as NICIL’s auditor gives him access to information and knowledge about the entity that would

have been based on pre2002 matters and circumstances thereby introducing potential risks for bias and prejudice in the forensic process where there is a conflict with his predispositions and the status quo.

NICIL highlighted that this potential risk for bias and prejudice is demonstrated by Goolsarran’s emphasis on pre-2002 events in his executive summary and his minimal and “sometimes dismissive” reference throughout the report to the audits of the current Auditor General Deodat Sharma.

A second point raised by NICIL is the fact that Goolsarran’s appointment violates the spirit of the “Eligibility Clause” of Cabinet’s Terms of Reference, in relation to previous audit services provided by the FA on the subject of the forensic audit. “This contention is even more relevant due to the fact that the forensic auditor conducted his audit for a period beyond that verbally communicated to NICIL on 8 June 2015 at a meeting at the Ministry of Finance,” NICIL posited, noting that the period is from 2012 to 2015.

NICIL claims there is no

official letter of appointment naming the identity of the forensic auditor but merely a verbal identification.

NICIL highlights also that its contention of potential risk and prejudice is further supported by the forensic auditor’s two-part publication called “Accountability Watch” where Goolsarran, in his personal capacity, opined on several matters involving NICIL and made recommendations in his concluding remarks about what course of action he believes government should take regarding NICIL. These very conclusions were repeated in the recommendations of the report, NICIL posited.

Meanwhile, NICIL opined that the forensic auditor failed to satisfy the main objective of the forensic audit by failing to identify which substantive law, accounting principle or government policy was broken, violated, breached or ignored.

Additionally, NICIL stated that the report fails to distinguish clearly, which matters are legal matters and which matters are policy matters.

Moreover, it noted that in almost every case, there is no support to show where the law has been breached or the many cases of previous audits that do not reach this conclusion.

That aside, government is yet to act on the recommendations made in the audit report into NICIL. Almost immediately after assumption to office, the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) administration hurriedly and haphazardly launched a series of forensic audits into several

saturday, december 12, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyanese man busted with cocaine in rum cakes

AGuyanese national was on Tuesday last arrested upon entering the JFK International Airport with cocaine in rum cakes.

state agencies with the aim of unearthing corrupt practices by the previous administration with the sole intention of “sending them to jail”.

The most recent report from government is that Finance Minister Winston Jordan is yet to read the report and that the recommendations from the report needed “cabinet’s blessings” before any further steps can be taken.

Romel Samuels was selected for examination on December 8 by US Customs and Border Protection officers after he stepped off a JetBlue flight originating in Guyana, according to a complaint filed in Brooklyn Federal Court.

Samuels, 30, was carrying a duty-free bag containing two rum cakes which apparently aroused the officers’ suspicion.

It was reported that after one of the cake was cut, officers discovered a

white pasty substance thus prompting a test to be conducted which tested positive for cocaine. A total of 1.5 kilos of cocaine was recovered in the two cakes with a street value of about US$70,000. Samuels crumbled at that point and admitted that someone had given him the two rum cakes during a stopover in Trinidad and Tobago and asked him to bring the bag to New York. He reportedly told officers that he assumed there was something illegal inside the cakes but did not think it was drugs, according to the complaint. Samuels was ordered held without bail on Wednesday.

Reform necessary for PPP/C to win future elections

– Jagdeo admits Party members became complacent, lazy

By KRISTEN MACKLINGAM

Scores of residents in the Success and Industry Villages, East Coast Demerara (ECD) turned up to have dialogue with Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday night at PPP/C community meetings where he lashed out at members of his Party, citing they had become “complacent” and “lazy”.

He stated that coupled with this was the fact that many Party individuals also became arrogant and as a result lost touch with the Party’s “bases”.

These failures are what led the PPP/C to be in the position it is at the moment.

According to the Opposition Leader, the Party needs to be rebuilt, restructured and reformed to allow major changes which will ensure the PPP/C regains the power it has lost through whatever reasons.

He posited that the PPP/C needs more women and youth involved at all levels and the reconstructed Party will ensure “there is no room for arrogance”.

It was also noted that the older members – stalwarts –who have been functioning in senior capacities of the

Party will also “come back” as mentors to the young and new members.

Meanwhile, he explained that the second reason the PPP/C lost the recent elections was because many of its supporters had believed the “promises” made by the APNU/AFC during the campaigning season.

“They used Ramjattan and Nagamootoo as the Trojan horses to carry the message to our base because they couldn’t use APNU. They had to use people who were in our party. People who people might still listen to,” he noted.

He reminded that the coalition government when it was in opposition had trumpeted that sugar workers and rice farmers should have and could have been paid much more than what the PPP/C was giving them.

They promised that if given the opportunity to succeed to office by winning the Elections the coalition would ensure sugar workers receive 20 per cent increase in their salaries/wages and rice farmers benefit from $9000 per bag of their produce.

However, to date, the APNU/AFC government has failed to honour such prom-

ises to the populace, promises that resulted in the coalition receiving more support, and the PPP/C’s support base being reduced.

“Thirdly, what caused our support to dwindle was we have an entire generation under 30 (years) that doesn’t know the PNC... only know the PPP/C in power... They never had a frame of reference to compare... The whole message of change was a very strong one and they thought that change could only mean better but now they see it is not,” Jagdeo further explained.

Lastly, he acknowledged that the “corruption message” and the “incessant”

messages of corruption being peddled by Kaieteur News and Stabroek News on a daily basis while the PPP/C was in government played a critical role in the Party’s support base not remaining strong or even expanding.

However, the APNU/ AFC government has been

in power over six months to date and the populace can “see for themselves” that the change many had voted for was not for the better.

“I think that the people who left us, that many of them are coming back to us. This government, the president has already made it clear with regards to the

rice industry that this is a private industry; destroying it from the first week they were in office… The sugar workers did not get their 20 per cent increase, the pensioners did not get what they expected, and the Value Added Tax (VAT) remains,” Jagdeo added. (kristenm@ guyanatimesgy.com)

ASL launches Engineering School

Air Services Limited (ASL) on Thursday introduced its first batch of engineering trainees, as the air service provider announced the launch of its Aeronautical Engineering School.

Six employees of domestic air carrier were selected earlier this year to be the first batch of engineering students of the Aeronautical engineering school at the ASL hanger at Ogle International Airport (OAI). They include Jerick Austin, Surrendra Udiaram, Abdul Khan and Sherwin King.

The students, who began training and studies since last year, began the official round of the programme in October, when the school received its certification from the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

As part of their training, which has already closed for the year, the students on Thursday flew from the OIA to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), to meet with engineers of Caribbean Airlines (CAL), where they were given practical experiences into the operations of major aircraft.

ASL’s manager Annette Arjune-Martins spoke to the media at CJIA, explaining that the training is well rounded with both theoretical and practical instructions, noting that students are even allowed the scope to move on to becoming engineering pilots.

According to ASL, in keeping with its corporate social responsibility, Caribbean Airlines facilitated the large pressurized aircraft familiarization training programme.

The air service provider said since 2003, it has been actively engaged in the development of its maintenance and engineering personnel through a wide array of training initiatives.

It said students joining the new programme will have an opportunity to obtain the required basic theoretical knowledge while building professional capacity and hands-on experience on the most diverse fleet of fixed and rotor wing aircraft.

Since 2008, according to ASL, CAL has been collaborating with the local aviation sector by lending support to train young aspiring Aircraft Maintenance Engineers via its Internship (Work study) Programme.

This programme, it said, has seen the development of many young Guyanese looking to establish a career in the industry. Out of this synergy, students of the local engineering school have moved unto other related aviation agencies across the globe while others are being utilised by Caribbean Airlines and the local aviation industry.

The air service provider said the young trainees under its wing have so far been able to hone their skills by acclimatising themselves

with the rigors of Line Maintenance in Guyana and the intricacies of BaseMaintenance which will be done in neighbouring Trinidad. They will be able to also obtain their Trinidadian and Guyanese Maintenance Engineer’s Licence along with a wide array of systems knowledge on large pressurized airplanes such as the B737800, B767-300, and ATR 72600; none of which exists on the Guyana aircraft registry.

Speaking on the collaboration with CAL, ASL said the international air service carrier invested a considerable amount of resources into developing a self-sufficient Guyanese Maintenance and Engineering Team.

“Continuing on the road of fulfilling our corporate social responsibility, CAL is now collaborating with the recently approved Air Services Limited Aeronautical Engineering School to facilitate a “Large Pressurized Aircraft Familiarization Training Programme” which consists of the following components: Ramp Safety awareness around a large aircraft; Airframe and Engine systems found on large airplanes”.

It said the essence of the programme is to enhance understanding and assimilation of the structural makeup and systems that are commonly found on such an aircraft.

LGE 2016

Hinterland void of voter education activities – PPP/C MPs

As Guyana prepares to host Local Government Elections in just over three months under a new hybrid electoral system, the opposition People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) says there are virtually no Voter Education activities in many hinterland communities, including Lethem and Mabaruma which were recently declared towns.

Speaking at a media conference on Thursday, Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira revealed that there is very little Voter Education in some hinterland areas, singling out Region Nine.

“In Region Nine you are only dealing with one municipality, that’s Lethem… voter education...Zero, and there are a lot of Gecom people walking round the place in Lethem, in some cases, they are supposed to have started voter education but the actual information getting to people to get them to come is being poorly done… the voter education in abysmally and shamefully bad by Gecom and it is a new system and therefore people are going to be uncertain as what to do, as well as even the political parties that have to have scrutineers, have polling agents, etc,” Teixeira said.

Meanwhile Collin Croal, PPP/C Member of Parliament (MP) said a similar situation obtains in Region One, particularly the newly established town of Mabaruma.

“We at the party level would have done some meetings there… I would have done all the meetings there and the response is that the people are confused; they don’t really understand the change of the hybrid system. It is a change in the electoral voting system and it requires lots and lots of public education and while on the coastland you have different media - television, radio, newspaper, in the hinterland you will require a different strategy… but nil public education,” Croal said.

However Deputy Chief Elections Officer Vishnu

Single-parent mom asked to return core house to Govt

NPersaud in response said Gecom officials are on the ground and meetings are being arranged for all these communities.

Persaud had previously told Guyana Times that the Civic and Voter Education projects commenced way before the Claims and Objections exercise and officials of Gecom are in all 72 Local Authority areas; however the public has not been very responsive.

Persaud underscored the importance of these meetings in educating citizens on a number of aspects of the upcoming elections.

“We are also sending the entire schedule to the political parties to see if they can enthuse their constituents to come out to these meetings. In fact, we are requesting that the parties try to motivate their constituents to come out at these meetings,” he added.

No consultations

Meanwhile, the PPP/C MPs have also accused Gecom and the Ministry of Communities of failing to properly consult Amerindian communities in the extension of boundaries.

“I have in my possession a letter from the Toshao of Nappi Village (Region Nine) to Minister Sydney Allicock (Indigenous People’s Affairs Ministry), advising that there was no consultation to do with the boundaries of the municipality of Lethem, which is going right up, it embraces lands west of Nappi Village, titled lands and overlap on the proposed extension which they asked for and this was sent since July 2015, so there was no consultation whatsoever with the villages for the boundaries of the municipality now go right up,” Teixeira said.

She also revealed that the village of St Ignatius is encircled now and as such will not be able to have any extensions in future.

Meanwhile Croal said a similar case obtains in Mabaruma where the Neighbourhood Democratic Council was converted to a municipality, highlighted that prior to this there was no consultation with the communities affected.

“It’s something new for the people and the consultative process was nil. What you had was the respective officers from the Ministry of Communities along with Gecom, they were on the ground because the wanted to predetermine the new boundaries and they would have gone to the respective communities, but what you didn’t have was the opinion of the persons who are going to be affected by this change,” Croal said.

irmala Ganesh, a single-parent mother who occupies a core house at 1688 Plantation Bell West, West Bank Demerara, was on Thursday 3 December given a letter by the Central Housing & Planning Authority (CHPA) requesting her to hand over documents thereby rescinding her ownership of the property, back to the government.

The letter states that Ganesh breached her contract.

According to the letter, she was supposed to as per agreement occupy the house no later than one month after the keys were handed over. However, she failed to comply with this agreement, refusing to occupy the free building constructed within the agreed timeframe and despite repeated communication, both verbal and written, regarding her non-occupancy she is still residing at 380 Stanleytown, Canal

No 2 Polder, West Bank Demerara the address from which she qualified to obtain the core house.

The letter goes on to state that as per breach of her obligation to occupy the said property within the stipulated period, the CHPA will take steps to rescind the Agreement.

She was required to seek a refund of monies paid for the land and equity contribution by submitting all origi-

nals documents no later than 5 January, 2016 and to sign an Originating Summons to cancel Certificate of Title to the land before the High Court. This will ensure the property is transferred back to government.

Ganesh is taking legal action to contest this claim stating she did not breach her contract.

Her lawyer Hannifah Jordon issued a letter to the CHPA refuting the authority’s claims made against Ganesh.

This letter states that Ganesh is currently occupying the house which means she did not breach her contract and a request was made for her to be given the Certificate of Title to the house.

In an interview with Guyana Times Ganesh stated she along with her daughter has been living at the house since it was giving to her in December of 2013.

She added that because

she works every day and comes home late at night, she is not able to occupy the house 24/7 but that she definitely lives there.

“I have been living at the house since December of 2013. But earlier in July of this year, Ms. Bennett, who works at the Central Housing & Planning Authority, called me in and said that she received reports that I was not living in the house. I told her that was false and that I was living in the house. I further explained to her that I work with the Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO) and due to my work that it is impossible for me to be at home all day” she stated.

She further explained that in the area, there are around 30 core houses and that no one else received such a letter. She mentioned that there is one other house that was occupied but is not, anymore.

saturday, december 12, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyanese man wins US$750,000 lawsuit

Aformer Yankee Stadium employee, who was wrongfully charged for smuggling cocaine into the United States via the JFK Airport after his luggage was tampered with, won a US$750,000 jury verdict against Delta Airlines on Thursday in Brooklyn Federal Court.

Roger Levans was arrested at JFK on 10 December 2010, after Customs Agents found three bricks of the drug in his luggage after he arrived from Guyana.

However, the feds dropped the rap three months later after discovering that his suitcases had been breached in-transit.

Levans claimed the lock on the piece of luggage that contained the prohibited substance had been broken and replaced with a ribbon.

But Levans lost his job at Yankee Stadium before his exoneration and suffered massive humiliation among friends and family, according to his lawsuit.

He slapped Delta Airlines with a civil case in 2012, claiming they were negligent in failing to secure his luggage en route to JFK.

Levans had a “stellar” record as a security guard at the famed venue and was

Roger Levans

“entrusted to guard the executive portion of the stadium” before getting sacked, according to his suit.

The otherwise banal case drew headlines at the time because Levans told agents his luggage contained “cooked rabbit” and other food items before they found the drugs.

Levans testified at trial that the wrongful bust has permanently polluted his Google search results.

Delta attorneys argued that the airline could in no way be held responsible for the presence of the cocaine and urged jurors to find the carrier not guilty. But after only two hours of deliberation, Levans got an early Christmas gift with the US$750,000 award.

Psychiatric Hospital to undergo minor repairs in 2016

The National Psychiatric Hospital is expected to undergo minor repairs in 2016 but the much needed major rehabilitation works will not commence anytime soon, says Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton.

The psychiatric facility is currently in an appalling condition and has reportedly been in that state for a number of years.

According to the Region Six Health Committee Chairman Haseef Yusuf, the condition of the institution is inhumane and both patients and employees continue to struggle.

Contacted for a comment on the matter, the Public Health Minister disclosed that he has been lobbying at every available opportunity for funds to upgrade the institution. He noted that the $14 million funds from the Indian line of credit which was diverted

from the Specialty Hospital Project would be inadequate to address all the woes of the Hospital.

Dr Norton said he envisions the facility to reach international standards where patients can actually be rehabilitated and not just placed there to be forgotten. His vision includes the need for better security, enhanced facilities and amenities, improved systems, better qual-

ity treatment, among others. But he noted that this will require money and ultimately time. The resources, he noted, are not available at this moment.

The Health Committee Chairman had pointed out that the hospital is equipped with supplies of poor and sub-standard quality; an inoperable canteen; an acute shortage of basic items in the kitchen; leaky roofs; no fans are in the ward; shortage of beds; dysfunctional washrooms; and a deplorable laundry facility, including shortage of clothe-lines. Additionally, there are issues such as having a huge unfenced gas tank next to the kitchen, the lengthy delays in processing purchase orders, the constant flooding of the compounds, among others.

The Minister recognised the problems and sympathised with the major discomfort endured by the staff

Single-parent mom...

“Coming into the area, there is only one other core house that I recently saw with a sign stating that it is the property of CHPA so I don’t know if it is related to the same issue that I am having” she said.

Ganesh is appealing to the CHPA under the Ministry of Housing to allow her to live peacefully in her home because she has been living there for two years now with her daugh-

ter. She is also requesting that CHPA give her the Certificate of Title to her house.

In a telephone interview with Guyana Times Acting Director of Community Development of Central Housing and Planning Authority Donell BessBascom stated that during the 2nd Low Income Settlement Programme (LISP), Nirmala Ganesh applied to be a recipient of one of the core houses.

The rules were read out to her, in which it was stated that in applying for the house, if successful she will be required to occupy the house within one month of completion. BessBascom stated that Ganesh failed to do so, occupying the house in December of 2013 rather than July 2013 when she was supposed to.

This according to BessBascom is an indication that Ganesh did not need the home

and patients.

However, he noted that the major rehabilitation works can only be completed once Government solicits enough funding.

Nonetheless, he noted that minor repairs, inclusive of fixing the leaking roofs, will be addressed as early as next year.

The Minister had visited the institution shortly after assumption to office. He met with the staff there, where complaints of frequent interruptions to their water and electricity supply, along with the telephone service were made.

Since then, the Minister has promised to address the situation.

Meanwhile, Guyana Times understand that the nurses and staff of the institution are entitled to a takehome salary of only $43,000 along with a risk allowance of $450 per month; and $15,000 as uniform allowance per year.

and as such, the CHPA chose to allocate the house to someone who really needs it. She also stated that monthly monitoring are carried out in the area and reports show that every time these monitorings were done Ganesh’s home was stated as unoccupied.

She added that along with Ganesh, many others are not occupying the houses and as such strict action is being taken.

National Youth Policy:

Govt still to finalise, approve document for implementation

The draft National Youth Policy (NYP) is still with Education Ministry, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport for review more than five months after it was completed.

When asked about the current state of the NYP, Presidential Adviser on Youth Empowerment Aubrey Norton said the document has been forward to the responsible minister.

Meanwhile Norton, while he could not provide a specific date, said implementation of the policy will begin in 2016.

When contacted, Junior Education Minister with responsibilities for Culture, Youth and Sport Nicolette Henry, told Guyana Times to contact her office and schedule an appointment for any queries.

The National Youth Policy 2015 is said to be a comprehensive policy document that states the vision of the government for the youths of the country, and also how this vision would be realised by government. The policy caters for the needs of youths in the age group of 15-35, which constitutes over 50 per cent of the population.

It also identifies the vision and the five key ob-

Women’s issues highlighted at men’s forum

Fifty-three men from Linden benefitted from a men’s forum, which dealt with educating, empowering and equipping participants with the necessary skills needed to deal with stressful situations without the use of violence.

The forum conducted by the Adolescent Department within the Public Health Ministry was hosted in collaboration with the Linden Care Foundation, Regional Aids Committee and Department of Culture within the Education Ministry.

The event, which took place at the Egbert Benjamin Conference Hall, Linden on Monday was hosted in observance of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

Speaking at the forum, Regional Chairman Renis Morian focused on violence against women in the security sector in Region Ten. He said about 75 per cent of security personnel in the community are women, many of whom work at thinly populated locations with limited lights and poor facilities: “Three weeks ago a man raped a young security guard. Added to the violence the employer gave her only a week off after which she was expected to be back on the job with no compensation or medical support.”

He added that such violence against women is prevalent not only in Region

10 but across Guyana and is very much unacceptable.

“There is no regulatory body in Region 10 that monitors what happens to women in the security sector. The question I’m asking here now is that young girl that got raped, who should she talk to? There is no one. Where could she find the support she needs to be effectively reintegrated back into society after such a trauma as she is left to deal with the psychological and physical scars that remain,” he explained.

Vice Chairman of the Linden Fund USA, Keith Semple, who also engaged the attendees, noted he is pleased to be associated with the initiative. He said educating men on their responsibility in making sure they have a positive impact on family structure in Linden and Guyana is very important:

“It all starts with loving and respecting the female members of your household, neighbours, school, churches, etc. Preparing a to-do-list every day for the things you need to do in your home can only impact positively on the members of your family.”

Welfare Officer Gregory Azore spoke of the legal consequences of abuse, effects and alternatives to violence. Regional Member of Parliament Jermaine Figuera in his address to the audience stated: “The reality of gender based violence is real within our communities and the Guyanese society as a whole.”

He added that it is a very serious issue which requires the involvement of all stakeholders. He said the victims of gender based violence, be it men or women, the young or the elderly must be provided with the needed help and assistance to curb this plague within the fabric of our society:

“I believe education and more serious penalty will be a huge step in combating this unwanted reality within our society. The conver-

sation on this issue must be at all levels of development, especially within the homes, schools, religious groups, and parliament.”

jectives that are further subdivided into several priority areas for youth development. It further suggests policy imperatives that should be implemented in each of these identified priority areas.

The NYP seeks to

achieve a nation where all the young people are safe and healthy, have equal access to opportunities, can participate in public life, and are empowered to meaningfully contribute to Guyana’s sustainable, national development.

In their Manifesto for

the 11 May 2015 General and Regional Elections, the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition, had pledged to prioritise youth development. Among the promises was the timely convening of a National Youth Conference to push the Terms of Reference and programme of action for the long-awaited National Youth Policy and National Youth Policy Action Plan. This conference, convened in early June, brought together youths from across the nation, in a working session that discussed a draft profile of the ideal Guyanese youth, in addition to the NYP document. The conference was critical in arriving at the final document that was sent to Education Minister Rupert Roopnaraine.

saturday, december 12, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Racial incitement suit against Jagdeo quashed

... Magistrate had no jurisdiction to hear case, no evidence to support offence – High Court

High Court Judge, Justice Navindra Singh has ruled that Magistrate Charlyn Artiga has no jurisdiction to hear the private criminal charge brought against Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo for racial incitement.

The ruling was handed down on Friday.

In June Jagdeo, through his attorney, filed a Writ/ Order of Certiorari and Prohibition, asking the court to find that Magistrate Artiga does not have the jurisdiction to hear the private criminal charge brought against him.

Back in May, political activist and social commentator Christopher Ram filed a private criminal charge against the former President at the Whim Magistrate’s Court, Corentyne, claiming that he broke the laws when he uttered certain statements, which the Attorney/ Accountant said can “result in racial or ethnic violence or hatred among the people”.

Filed under Section 139D 1A of the Representation of the People Act, the charge stated that on March 8, 2015 at Babu Jaan, Port Mourant, Jagdeo said: “The Opposition consistently shouts about racism of the

PPP, but they practise racism. The Opposition beats drums at six in the morning and say let us throw the coolie people out.”

The former President was at the time on the campaign trail for his party, the then ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

In June, Jagdeo moved to the High Court to challenge the instituting of what he deems to be an unlawful and politically inspired charge against him following the delivery of his historic and frank speech at a memorial service to honour People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Founder and

late President Dr Cheddi Jagan.

In the legal document, the lawyers for the former President maintain that Magistrate Artiga’s decision to charge Jagdeo with racial incitement was “irrational, unreasonable, erroneous in law and null and void”. They believe too that the Magistrate has no jurisdiction to inquire into the charge because it is legally defective and invalid and any attempt for her to so do, would amount to an abuse of court.

A similar application was made Inlimine before Magistrate Artiga but she overruled the submissions and proceeded with hearing the matter. Initially, the High Court proceeding was heard by Justice William Ramlall, who granted two preliminary orders prohibiting the Magistrate from making further movements in prosecuting Jagdeo.

The judge was supposed to deliver a final ruling on the matter but he took ill and the case was reassigned to Justice Singh. In handing down his ruling on Friday, Justice Singh firstly found that the Magistrate could not determine on her own where she has the juris-

Govt forced to amend recently passed non-compliant AML Bill

– AG to table amendments on Thursday

Six months after passing the contentious AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Bill, Government will be returning to the drawing board, this time to table amendments to that Bill.

The announcement was made through the Order Paper for the next sitting of the National Assembly scheduled for Thursday, December 17, which states that the Attorney General (AG) and Legal Affairs Minister will present the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2015.

It describes the Bill as one that will provide for the establishment of a law reform commission for reforming the law and matters connected therewith.

Despite fierce objection by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Government in June of this year passed the highly controversial bill. The PPP had continuously argued that the proposed AML/CFT Amendment Bill contained some provisions that have been rejected by the CFATF, as well as the FATF and Government ran the risk of passing into a law a bill that may not be compliant with international requirements.

The contention raised by the Opposition was nothing strange as that was among the reasons for the unending gridlock the Parliament had found itself during the 10th Parliament. The A

Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government, the then Opposition, had refused to support the passage of the Bill as presented by the then PPP/C Government.

The blockage was based on a number of issues, but particularly the inability of the Government and Opposition to agree on the amendments. The Government’s version of the AML/CFT Bill did not sit right with the then Opposition.

The Bill, as put forward by the then Government, had garnered little or no support from the then APNU and AFC Opposition, and they used their one-seat majority to block its passage. The political impasse surrounding the passage of the AML/CFT Bill saw Guyana being blacklisted by CFATF and barely averting official blacklisting by FATF.

The months following the passage of the Bill, Government through Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams argued and maintained that the Bill was in its right form. However, just over a week ago, he finallyconceded that Guyana is not fully compliant with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)/ Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF).

According to the Attorney General, there are still a number of recommendations the country still needed to fulfil before this could become a reality.

Guyana is currently on the

diction to hear the matter hence he made “absolute” the preliminary ruling by Justice Ramlall.

Justice Singh went on to examine the legality of the charge, that is, whether it is fundamentally defective in that it does not disclose an offence and therefore incapable of yielding a valid and legal conviction.

The judge explained that the particulars sworn to by Ram did not disclose sufficient facts for a criminal offence to be prosecuted in the Magistrate Court. He stated in his decision: “The Applicant (Jagdeo) in making the statements, for those statements to constitute an offence as charged in the information, must be shown to be calling for, support-

ing or encouraging the hatred of one group by another on race or ethnicity. The Court does not find that the Particulars of Offence have disclosed such facts.”

Furthermore, Justice Singh examined the facts before the court in detail, pointing out that the information proffered by Ram did not constitute an offence: “It is clear that the Particulars of Offence does not disclose an offence. Based on the foregoing analysis, even if what is alleged in the Particulars of Offence is proved there can be no resulting conviction since no criminal offence is disclosed.”

The High Court judge informed the court that he even considered the possibility of amending the charge and have it reinstituted but noted that the information would still not be sufficient to warrant a prosecution.

On this ground, the judge found that the Magistrate Court could not have had jurisdiction since there was no legal case to be heard.

During the proceedings, Jagdeo was represented by Attorney Murseline Bacchus, who expressed satisfaction with the decision following the ruling. He said it was a ruling that he was expecting.

“I’m not disappointed, the judge gave a rul-

ing which I think cannot be successfully challenged,” he opined.

However, Attorney General Basil Williams, who was absent during the ruling but was represented by Deputy Solicitor General Prathima Kissoon along with State Counsel Judy Stuart, was of a different opinion. He told reporters Ram can file another charge if he wants to.

“If there was no offence, it means then that there was no charge, in effect, and therefore Mr Jagdeo was never in jeopardy. Once he was never in jeopardy so that he could raise the concept of autrefois acquit. It means that if Mr Ram wants, he can refile a new charge,” Williams argued.

Man unconscious after Bladen Hall accident

FATF light grey list (those that have developed an action plan) and on the CFATF enhanced follow-up list, Williams stated.

He explained that Guyana will remain on these lists until it deals with the outstanding recommendations.

However, he quickly pointed out that it appears it is an ongoing process: “Its unending… this is a regime to ensure that the international financial system is not affected by terrorist financing and money laundering and that appears to be ongoing.

According to Williams, Guyana is in the third round of evaluation where it is being assessed on its ability to meet the relevant requirements. Based on the country’s performance, it will then move into the fourth round of evaluation, where it is being assessed on its effectiveness and implementation of the said recommendations. But Williams was unable to say how many rounds of evaluation there are, which led to his conclusion that the process is never-ending.

“I asked the same question (about the number of rounds) and that’s why I could tell you it’s unending,” he stated.

Furthermore, in explaining why Guyana is not fully compliant with CFATF/ FATF, Williams highlighted that several recommendations might have several components, therefore if a country satisfies nine of the 10 components; it would still be rendered “not fully compliant”.

Aman is presently hospitalised at the Georgetown Public Hospital nursing injuries to his head and neck after being struck by a speeding minibus on Friday afternoon.

Injured is Udai Prakash Manieram, 54, of Lot 27 Bladen Hall, Strathspey Public Road, East Coast of Demerara.

According to reports reaching Guyana Times, Manieram was heading home after work and was attempting to cross the Blanden Hall Public Road when the minibus which was overtaking another vehicle struck him.

Reshma Manieram, daughter of the victim told

this newspaper that she received a call at about 16:15h informing her that her father was involved in an ac-

cident and that he was being rushed to the hospital.

She added that when she, along with other family members reached at the hospital, she was told by doctors that her father was in critical condition. She said that he needed respiratory help in order to breathe.

The distraught daughter related that her father is scheduled to undergo a CAT scan to determine the magnitude of his injuries.

Up to press time, Manieram had not regained consciousness. This newspaper was told that the driver of the minibus is in Police custody at the Vigilance Police Station.

An investigation into the incident has been launched.

Hidden object discovered, probe launched

The discovery of a hidden wireless device in the Guyana Water Incorporation’s (GWI) ICT network led to the conclusion that the company’s network was deliberately compromised.

An investigation was immediately launched into the situation.

According to a release from the company, its ICT Department received an unusually high amount of complaints from internal users of GWI’s Network at the Corporate Complex, Vlissengen Road and

Church Street, Bel-Air Park, Georgetown on Friday.

These complaints varied from reduced connectivity to the complete loss of network connection. Following a scan conducted by the ICT Department, the foreign object was discovered. Up to press time, efforts were being made to locate the source of the signal.

GWI Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Richard Van West-Charles noted that the placement of the device in the company’s ICT Network was a deliberate attempt of sabotage by unknown per-

sons who wish to undermine the integrity of GWI’s internal network.

He explained too that he consistently experienced difficulties connecting to GWI’s network from his secretariat since the commencement of his tenure. He added that “I can assure that once the culpable party is identified, full disciplinary action will be enforced. We cannot allow these attacks within such a vital utility. We will contact the Guyana Police Force should there be a recurrence.”

Around the world

St Vincent PM sworn in after Opposition protests

St Vincent’s Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves was sworn in on Thursday night, five hours later than scheduled as the National Democratic Party (NDP) refused to concede a one-seat defeat to the Unity

Labour Party (ULP) in Wednesday’s general elections and supporters blocked the road to Governor General Sir Frederick Ballantyne’s residence.

Riot Police had to be called out as the NDP demonstrators tried to pre-

vent Gonsalves from taking the oath of office for a fourth consecutive time.

Declaring there had been fraud and irregularities during the vote, and insisting that Gonsalves should not be sworn in before a recount in the Central Leeward constituency and other disputed constituencies had been completed, the NDP insisted it would not accept the results which gave it seven of the 15 seats in Parliament and the ULP the other eight – the result as in the 2010 elections.

The NDP supporters and Police scuffled and there was even a face to face confrontation involving Sir Louis Straker, who won the Central Leeward seat by 314 votes, and ULP leader Arnhim Eustace, as tensions ran high.

The protestors’ refusal to clear the street prevented Gonsalves from taking the oath at the scheduled 14:00h.

However, by 19:00h, the swearingin ceremony at which Sir Louis also took the oath of office as deputy Prime Minister and Judith Jones-Morgan was sworn in as Attorney General, got underway. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Taliban attack hits Spanish embassy in Kabul

The Taliban mounted a car bomb attack on a guest house near the Spanish embassy in Kabul on Friday, wounding at least seven people and further dimming any hopes of peace talks with moderate elements of the Islamist insurgent movement.

Gunfire was reported immediately following the explosion, which the Taliban said was targeted at a guest house attached to the embassy near a heavily protected area of the capital close to many foreign embassies and Government buildings.

A spokesman for the Spanish Foreign Ministry initially said there had been an explosion in the embassy, which is outside a fortified “green zone” housing

other embassies and UN buildings.

However, Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy said the attack was not directed at the embassy itself

but at the guest house. A Taliban spokesman said the attack had targeted “an invader’s guest house”.

One Spanish Policeman was injured but all oth-

er embassy staff were safe and unhurt, he told reporters in Madrid. Security forces with armoured vehicles were deployed around the scene, with at least three insurgents involved in the attack, according to one Police official.

Deputy Interior Minister Ayoub Salangi said two of the attackers had been killed by snipers and a third was wounded. Security forces were proceeding with caution because they were not sure exactly how many attackers might still be inside.

At least seven people were brought to a hospital operated by the aid group Emergency, 700 meters (yards) from the Spanish embassy, according to a tweet from the organisation. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Shinzo Abe: Japan PM in India, bullet train deal on cards

Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is on a two-day visit to India, where he is expected to announce a deal for India’s first bullet train.

On Thursday, India approved the US$14.7 billion deal for Japan to build the high-speed train line. The highly-anticipated multibillion-dollar deal is being seen as one of the biggest foreign investments in India’s ageing infrastructure.

China is also bidding to build high-speed bullet train lines in India. Abe was scheduled to meet business and Government leaders and visit Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s

Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told the AFP news agency that the visit would strengthen cooperation in a “wide range of fields”.

Abe and Modi had agreed at a 2014 summit in Tokyo to accelerate talks on a nuclear energy pact.

They also agreed to strengthen security ties and Modi welcomed Japan’s easing of restrictions on exports of defence equipment and technology.

The two leaders enjoy a close friendship and Modi chose Japan as the destination for his first bilateral visit outside South Asia after he was elected prime minister in May 2014. (Excerpt from BBC News)

ILO report says unemployment increased in Latin America and Caribbean

The rate of unemployment in Latin America and the Caribbean increased for the first time in five years to 6.7 per cent, causing at least 1.7 million people to be out of work, according to the latest publication of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

The 2015 Labour Overview of Latin America and the Caribbean warned of a “turnaround” in the employment indicators, with a deterioration in the employment situation of women

“The cumulative effects of the economic downturn that began three or four years ago and deepened during 2015, can be described as a crisis in slow motion,” said ILO Regional Director, Jose Manuel Salazar.

“This situation is worrying and poses numerous pol-

icy challenges for the countries in the region,” he said as he released the report here.

Because of slow growth forecasts for the region remain in the coming years, the ILO estimated that in 2016 the average unemployment rate for Latin America and the Caribbean could increase further to 6.9 per cent.

Salazar said that in 2015, similar to the economic slowdown, the reduced employment generation has been seen at different rates across the countries in the Region.

In some countries the unemployment rate has even reduced. But at the regional level there are countries such as Brazil, which significantly contribute to an increase in the average rate. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Putin vows to ‘immediately destroy’ any target threatening

Russia in Syria

Vladimir Putin has vowed Russia’s military will “immediately destroy” any target threatening them in Syria, representing a strong warning to Turkey following its shooting down of a Russian warplane at the Syrian border.

Speaking at a meeting with senior commanders in Moscow, Putin said the military should respond with full force to any “further provocations”, adding that additional aircraft and air defence weapons have been sent to the Russian base near Latakia.

“I order you to act in the toughest way,” the Russian President said. “Any targets threatening the Russian groups of forces or our land infrastructure should be immediately destroyed.” In continuing violence, Islamic State claimed responsibili-

ty for a triple suicide truck bombing that killed 50 to 60 Kurds in Tell Tamer in the Hasaka area of northern Syria, while the UN said it was sending its senior relief official, Stephen O’Brien, to Damascus to examine the deteriorating humanitarian situation.

The downing of the Russian bomber by a Turkish fighter jet on November 24, the first time a NATO member shot down a Russian plane in more than half a century, has badly strained relations between Moscow and Ankara.

Turkey said it downed the plane after it violated its airspace for 17 seconds despite repeated warnings. Russia has insisted the plane remained in Syrian airspace. Putin denounced the Turkish action as a “treacherous stab in the back”. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

saturday, december 12, 2015| guyanatimesgy.com

19 Officer Cadets promoted to Ensigns

Nineteen Officer Cadets, currently undergoing training on the Standard Officers Course (SOC) #48 were promoted to the rank of Ensigns on Wednesday, at an Ensigncy Parade held on the Drill Square, Base Camp Stephenson, Timehri, East Bank Demerara.

The Ensigns were decorated with their new badges of rank by Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Brigadier General Mark Phillips. In attendance at this significant event were the parents, relatives, officers, soldiers and special invitees who all congratulated the Ensigns as their new badges of rank were conferred.

The SOC #48 commenced on March 27, with a total of 45 Officer Cadets; one of whom was selected for overseas training at the US Military Academy, West Point and another 25 either withdrew or failed to achieve the required standards to continue the training.

The 19 Officer Cadets who have endured the rigours of the training regimen to date, include 16 Officer Cadets from the Guyana Defence Force, two of whom are female; two Officer Cadets from the Belize Defence Force and one female Officer Cadet from the St Kitts and Nevis Defence Force.

In his address to the

Ensigns, Brigadier General Mark Phillips congratulated the GDF’s newest leaders. He told them it is incumbent upon them to discover very early, how ethics and values will aid them in carrying out their purpose in life. “It is important that at the beginning of your military career that you read, re-read and live the values and standards of the Guyana Defence Force… It is important because regardless of how competent you are, how good a leader you will be, your success in the accomplishment of your missions and tasks will, from the start to the end of your career depend on your character – therein lies the importance of the core values of duty, discipline, identity, integrity and loy-

alty and of course the core standards of responsibility, respect for the law, respect for others, correct conduct and appropriate social behaviour,” Brigadier General Phillips urged. He further pointed out the importance of leadership and the intellectual demands of an cfficer. He urged the officers to use their minds for service on the borders and admonished that they will be expected to use their competence to foster discipline in their sub units to develop soldiers of character. “You, therefore, have an important role to play, to create and sustain your sub unit with the skill, trust and confidence needed to be successful in all types of military operations,” he

stated.

The Ensigns are slated to complete training within six weeks, and as integral part of their training, critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making are important skills they must master very early in their military career.

“As, Ensigns about to commence the final stage in your preparation for officership , it is important

for me to inform you, to impress upon you that an officer must be, above all else, a leader, a person whom men and women will follow into danger and discomfort in order to accomplish missions and tasks. Leadership, therefore, demands a dedicated responsibility towards the men and women you will command,” the Chief-ofStaff implored. Upon successful com-

pletion of their final phase of training, the Ensigns will be promoted to Second Lieutenant. The Standard Officers Course is designed to transform, in one year, a civilian, into an officer who can lead men and women in peacetime and combat.

The Standard Officers Course covers a number of subject areas which includes an intense programme of military skills and tactics, vigorous physical fitness and team activities, which are assigned to provide stamina and group spirit, leadership and command methods, management techniques, military law and national policy.

The Course also provides a solid foundation for subsequent professional development of all Officer Cadets entering the GDF. Many senior officers of the Joint Services have also received this training. This course is also highly recognised by militaries in the Caribbean and associate nations who have sent and continue to send their ranks to undergo training.

UGSSA Executives meet President Granger

President David Granger on Friday met with executives of the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA), and the University of Guyana Workers Union (UGWU) to listen to the growing number of issues at Guyana’s premier tertiary institution, University of Guyana.

According to President of UGSSA, Dr Mellissa Ifill, the two unions’ engagement with the President is not the first as it began some four years ago.

“It started way back in 2011 when he was Leader of the Opposition. We had approached him on issues of concern with the University, regarding governance, remunerations, salaries and other basic conditions at the University that staff members have to endure,” Ifill said.

While not divulging much on the discus -

sion, Dr Ifill said her team was encouraged by the President’s commitment to the University and its staff.

“We are to submit a number of proposals to him and we will do so immediately. We expect, coming out of the submission of these proposals, that we would have some good fruit; we are encouraged,” she said.

UGWU President Bruce Haynes also expressed confidence that fruitful results would soon come as a result of the Friday meeting.

The UGSSA and UGWU have for years been in a prolonged struggle with the University Administration and the Council.

Dr Ifill had claimed that there has never been any true attempt by either side to address the issues affecting the University’s workforce.

Due to the continuous gridlock, Dr Ifill

and the UGSSA are now calling for the realignment of the Council and the Administration. According to her, only then better management will prevail.

She said too the bodies must be 100 per cent autonomous and nonpartisan to ensure challenges facing the University’s workforce and the student population are dealt with objectively.

The two unions were successful in their attempt earlier this year, to organise a massive strike action, refusing to attend class sessions or carry out basic office duties.

The UGSSA and UGWU had called for a 60 per cent increase in salary, better working conditions and improved quality of service, among other things. However, classes resumed some weeks after, without these demands being reached.

Former Presidents’ benefits case deferred

Assuria Insurance opens doors at Giftland Mall

– AG to file response

The lawsuit filed by former Presidents Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar against the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government for capping their presidential benefits and breaching the Constitution of Guyana, was deferred when it was called up on Friday before acting Chief Justice Ian Chang.

Last month, the two former Presidents filed separate Notices of Motion for the non-payment of monies and other benefits that were cut as a result of the passage of the Former Presidents (Benefits and Other facilities) Act. While, the legal documents did not state any specific figures, they are seeking several declarations and orders as it relates to the monies being paid over.

The matter was called up before Justice Change on Friday, during which Deputy Solicitor General Prithima Kissoon indicated to the court that Attorney General Basil Williams wanted to make some points In limine (before the case is heard).

However, Justice Chang informed the court that he would not want to get into the matter since he would be leaving soon and would prefer for the case to be heard from inception by his successor. The acting Chief Justice is slated to go on his pre-retirement leave from February 23, 2016.

Nevertheless, Kissoon requested leave to be granted for the AG to file his affidavit in answer to the two motions filed by the former Presidents. Justice Chang granted the leave and the case was adjourned until January 29.

The former Presidents (Benefits and Other facilities) Act of 2015 was passed on July 9 in the absence of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic parliamentarians, who had refused to take

up their seats, and was assented to shortly after by President David Granger.

The new law saw allowances allocated for water, telephone and electricity being capped by almost $300,000, that is, to $75,000. It also outlined that all benefits and facilities granted are subject to taxation.

However, in the legal actions filed by Jagdeo and Ramotar, it was pointed out that the new law is unconstitutional and cannot be applied to them as former Presidents since they were in office before it was enacted. As such, both Jagdeo and Ramotar are asking to court to grant an order declaring same.

The court document says the former Presidents are seeking “An order declaring that the former Presidents (Benefits and Other Facilities) Act (No3 of 2015) does not retrospectively affect the benefits of the Applicant(s) as former Presidents under the Former Presidents (Benefits and Other Facilities) Act of 2009 who had demitted office before coming onto operation of the said Act of 2015”.

Secondly, the Notices of Motion is asking the court to declare that the Former Presidents (Benefits and other Facilities) Act 2009 provisionally vested in the applicant property rights when they assumed the

Office of the President (Jagdeo in August 1999 and Ramotar December 2011) in which benefits became absolute when they demitted the Office of the President (Jagdeo in December 2011 and Ramotar in May 2015) before the coming into operation of the Former Presidents (Benefits and Other Facilities) Act No. 3 of 2015.

Another declaration is being requested to say that the two former Presidents are entitled to receive the benefits conferred to them as former Presidents under the Former Presidents (Benefits and Other Facilities) Act 2009 within a reasonable time after they demitted their respective offices.

Furthermore, Jagdeo and Ramotar asked the court to grant an order compelling the Finance Minister, and/or the Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), his servants and/or agent on behalf of the state of Guyana to forthwith provide the applicants the financial benefits conferred by the Former Presidents (Benefits and Other Facilities) Act of 2009.

While the Former Presidents (Benefits and Other facilities) Act 2015 does not affect the $1.4 million monthly pension that former Presidents are entitled to receive, it, however, limits household staff to three persons; security personnel to two; and clerical or technical staff to three; all of whom must not be engaged in any political work.

Additionally, the new legislation restricts former Presidents to two vehicles which are to be owned and maintained by the State.

The APNU/AFC Administration scaled back the benefits package for former Presidents, which they called “vulgar”. Government said that capping the benefits was a step in the right direction as it was cutting unnecessary expenditure.

Trans Guyana Airways take Santa to Kamarang

Hundreds of children came out to greet jolly ole’ Saint Nick (Santa Claus) and receive their presents, as Trans Guyana Airways on Friday made their annual trip to the Amerindian community of Kamarang, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), to bring Christmas cheer to the community.

The boys and girls from both the nursery and primary schools in the community were happy and eager to meet Captain Conner Allen, who was decked from head to toe in his Santa attire.

Though a few of the

younger children were fearful of the jolly stranger, many of them were ecstatic to be in his presence as it meant that the time for presents and great food was near.

Over the past three years, Captain Allen has been Santa Claus for the Region Seven community, and explains that he finds much joy in this special task.

The captain stated also that the joy on the faces of the children is what inspires the company to continue this task every year.

The Trans Guyana group presented each child in the

community with a bag of treats and presents, wishing them good tidings for the holidays.

Headmistress of the Karamang Nursery School

Ann Crammer expressed many thanks to the management and staff of the Trans Guyana Airways for taking time out of their schedules, to bring cheer to the children of the village every year. She added that there are times when many children cannot be afforded a present for the holidays and she is very appreciative for the work of the Trans Guyana family.

Assuria Insurance on Friday evening opened their third branch located on the first floor of the Giftland Mall, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, reiterating their promise of superior customer service.

Speaking at the event was General Manager Yogendra Arjune who expressed optimism for the new location.

“We’ve now opened our third branch office at the Giftland Mall which is a very unique location that’s very convenient for customers with great security. What is very unique about this office is that we’ll be opened seven days a week from 12 midday (12:00h) to eight (20:00h) in the evening weekdays, and Saturdays and Sundays from 14:00h to 18:00h,” he announced.

He emphasised the company’s goal of making their service efficient and accessible, saying: “We’re making insurance much more easy and convenient. That should be the last thing you’re worried about when thinking of insurance and that is what Assuria is aiming to do. All of our other services that we have in Williamsburg, in Vreed-en-Hoop and in Church Street will be available at this location”.

He encouraged persons to join Assuria for the best in insurance services and a safe and convenient atmosphere.

Assuria Insurance Company in Guyana sells motor insurance with free and transferable coverage while driving in Suriname, fire and allied perils with compensation for temporary housing up to six months, all

types of bonds, whether it be bid, mobilisation advance or performance, burglary, machinery all risk, consequential loss, indemnity liability, group medical, life and pension, international medical and travel insurance, individual life and pension plans, offering additional benefits and services to customers.

Assuria is the largest insurance company in Suriname and has been providing creative and innovative insurance and risk management solutions to the country since 1889, when the first Dutch insurance company established its first subsidiary in Suriname.

The company opened its first branch in Guyana in April 2012 and has since been providing excellent and quality insurance coverage to Guyanese.

SUDOKU

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

(May 21June 20)

Gains are apparent if you take an aggressive position and a proactive approach. It’s up to you to bring about the changes you desire. Stop talking and start doing.

Someone from your past will enlighten you. Think back to the experiences you shared in order to make a wise decision that will lead to unusual gains. Celebrate with someone you love.

Don’t be upset by what others do. Take control of your life and do what works best for you. Sometimes, going it alone brings the best results. Believe in yourself.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (June 21July 22)

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

PISCES

(Feb. 20March 20)

Take a step forward and make a point to let others know what you intend to do. Once your position is clear, you will be able to follow through on your plans without hesitation.

Consider what you can do to bring joy to loved ones or those you wish to help. An offering that is thoughtful yet practical is the best way to do this.

Be careful how you handle a delicate situation. The less you say and the more you do, the better off you will be. Be progressive, not aggressive, if you want to avoid a showdown.

A great idea will help you improve your financial situation. A plan to update or enhance your appearance will give you greater confidence and incentive to go after your goals.

Listen to advice being given to you. Do less, spend little and listen and be more observant. Slow down and take a deep breath. Time is on your side.

Express your feelings and focus on what and who is important in your life. Share your ideas and plans for the future. Make a commitment to honor your promises. Control your emotions and keep your mind fixated on your goals. Once you get your work out of the way, you will feel free to enjoy some playtime.

Don’t let confusion set in. Look at the big picture and start the process of getting things done. Your diligence will be a key factor in bringing about necessary changes.

Work toward personal goals. Whether you’re beginning a new self-improvement project or developing a talent or skill that will help you advance, success will be yours.

Guyana, Jamaica engage in battle of spin attacks

– Guyana bundled out for 189, Jamaica reeling at 63-4

The Guyana Jaguars hit back at the Jamaican Scorpions in the fifth round of the WICB Professional Cricket League 4-day competition that commenced on Monday at Sabina Park, Jamaica.

Jaguars batting first were bundled out for 189 from 71 overs, as Vishaul Singh top scored with 45.

Discarded West Indies left-arm spinner Nikita Miller took 6-46 from 26 overs and was supported by off-spinner John Campbell with 3-45.

Guyana who lost their first wicket of Tagnarine Chanderpaul , who was brought in for Shimron Hetemyer on 38 never found their footing in their innings.

At lunch the Guyanese were 80-4 as Vishaul Singh found it hard to forge a substantial partnership as the team lost their

last six wickets for 109 runs.

Jamaica in response got off to a dreadful start as they lost their first wicket of opener John Campbell with the third ball of their innings due to some good bowling by left arm seamer Raymond Reifer.

As a partnership was building the scorpions lost Paul Palmer at 40-2 due to the bowling of Christopher Barnwell.

Ace spinner Veerasammy Peramul then took two quick wickets to leave the Jamaica 63-4 from 24 overs. Permaul has figures which read 2-1 from 5 overs thus far.

Guyana will start day two looking to wrap up the Jamaican innings as quickly as possible and bat again to formulate a sizeable lead as they hunt their fifth successive victory in the competition this year

Bravo fights after record Voges-Marsh stand

First, there is Don Bradman and Bill Ponsford. Then comes Adam Voges and Shaun Marsh. Such is the list of all-time Test record partnerships for Australia after Voges and Marsh put on 449 against an insipid West Indies in Hobart. It was the highest fourthwicket stand in Test history, and the sixth-biggest of the near 70,000 Test partnerships that have ever been compiled. By only two runs did the 451run Bradman-Ponsford stand against England at The Oval in 1934 survive in first place among Australian partnerships. Those are the facts, but here is the truth: it would have been criminally misleading for Voges and Marsh to have moved into top spot. In terms of size it was Australia’s secondgreatest partnership, in terms of quality it was not even close. That is no slight on Voges and Marsh but on the class of the bowling. In Adelaide last month their fourth-innings stand was 400 runs lighter, but arguably more meaningful as they held off the swing of Trent Boult and Doug Bracewell to set up victory. Jerome Taylor, Kemar Roach, Jason Holderthey have all delivered at Test level before. Here they went through the motions. And to paraphrase Dorothy Parker on Katharine Hepburn, it was

the gamut of motions from A to B. Amble in with little intent, bowl with no apparent plan, walk back to the mark, repeat. Too many half-volleys, too many on the pads, too many boundary balls. Too many fielders back, too many easy singles. Too many runs, too few efforts to stop them. For most of Australia’s innings this Test had the intensity of a tour game. By stumps little had changed as the West Indies batting order largely collapsed, but at least there was one significant positive for them. Darren Bravo was on the verge of a century. Bravo had moved to 94 and had enjoyed solid support from Kemar Roach, who was on 31, and their partnership

had moved along to 91 and was frustrating Steven Smith and his men.

West Indies were still 177 runs away from preventing the follow-on, but it was something. They had, after all, been 6 for 116 when Roach joined Bravo. Nathan Lyon spun out the middle order, Josh Hazlewood and Peter Siddle claimed wickets, but Bravo stood firm. More than that, he played with class, and his innings was all the more impressive for the frequent short rain delays that might have affected his focus.

He was exquisite through cover and midoff, 15 of his 17 boundaries coming through the off side, and he looked a

class above his batting colleagues, who had all struggled greatly. Bravo had one moment of luck on 78 when he edged Hazlewood between Voges and Smith in the slips, but otherwise his only mistake was in not convincing his partner Holder to ask for a review when Marais Erasmus gave him lbw to a Peter Siddle ball that was sailing well over the bails.

That Bravo and Roach had started to show some fight was encouraging for West Indies, for the innings had started miserably. It took Australia four sessions to lose four wickets in their innings; it took West Indies less than one. Hazlewood made the first breakthrough when he had Kraigg Brathwaite trapped lbw for a watchful 2 from 26 deliveries, and then it was all about Lyon.

Rajendra Chandrika had struggled against the spin and when he drove at Lyon on 25 he was taken by a juggling Smith at first slip. A better catch came when Marlon Samuels, on 9, drove on the up and Lyon hurled himself into the air to his left and completed a brilliant return take. It was something of a statement from the man who had become the first Australian offspinner to play 50 Tests.

Five balls later Lyon had a third, when Jermaine Blackwood played defensively with hard hands and saw his inside edge bob up

off his leg to be taken by Joe Burns at bat-pad. Four wickets had arrived before tea and soon after the break, Denesh Ramdin followed when he played back to Hazlewood and failed to get the bat down to a ball that stayed a touch low, and he was bowled for 8.

When Holder fell it was 6 for 116, a pitiful reply to Australia’s 4 for 583 declared.

It seemed as though

nothing could stop Marsh and Voges as they moved Australia’s total along at nearly a run a ball in the first session. Lacklustre as West Indies were, Voges and Marsh still had to concentrate and avoid mistakes, and they did so perfectly. It could also not be forgotten that Australia’s situation had been shaky when they came together on day one. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

Australia 1st innings

JA Burns b Gabriel 33

DA Warner c †Ramdin

b Warrican 64

SPD Smith* c Blackwood

b Warrican 10

AC Voges not out 269

SE Marsh c Bravo b Warrican 182

MR Marsh not out 1

Extras (b 4, lb 3, w 3, nb 14) 24

Total (4 wickets dec; 114 overs) 583

Did not bat: PM Nevill†, PM Siddle, JL Pattinson, JR Hazlewood, NM Lyon

Fall of wickets: 1-75, 2-104, 3-121, 4-570.

Bowling: JE Taylor 17-0-1080, KAJ Roach 16-1-99-0, ST Gabriel 10-1-59-1, JO Holder 24-3-75-0, JA Warrican 281-158-3, KC Brathwaite 130-52-0, J Blackwood 6-0-250. West Indies 1st innings

KC Brathwaite lbw b Hazlewood 2

R Chandrika c Smith b Lyon 25

DM Bravo not out 94

MN Samuels c & b Lyon 9

J Blackwood c Burns b Lyon 0

D Ramdin† b Hazlewood 8

JO Holder* lbw b Siddle 15 KAJ Roach not out 31

Extras (b 7, lb 10, w 1, nb 5) 23

Total (6 wickets; 65 overs) 207

To bat: JE Taylor, JA Warrican,

Linden football to be rejuvenated

BY AKEEM GREENE

In the upcoming weeks, the mining town of Linden will be graced with more football activity.

President of the Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA), Sharma Solomon in an exclusive interview with Guyana Times Sport spoke of some of the developments that will be rolled out soon.

Solomon said that there will be a “GT beer year end tournament commencing on the December 13, with a march past and opening ceremony. Coming off the GTT/Limacol finals, Linden is happy for year end football”.

The President also disclosed that the start of the Under-17 league, which will be played simultaneously to the GT Beer year end tournament, will also start on December 13.

In addition, he underscored the importance of having football being played in the communities as it is integral for the development of youths in Linden.

“Youth football is the pillar of our football, and the Under-17 tournament will act as a grass root programme in our communities and schools. Our junior programme is being played in sync with the senior team competition”, the President disclosed.

Three of the final four teams in the recent GTT/Limacol KO competition were from Linden; with the Linden side Milerock going on to win.

Solomon was appreciative of the performances of the teams from the

Mining Town and owed the success to good preparation.

“We had a good relationship with the Normalisation Committee where they gave us one million dollars to have a league started; having that league being played, gave our players the right preparation heading into the GTT competition”.

Quizzed about why football was lagging in Linden for a while now, Solomon bemoaned the administrative issues that surrounded the federation but assured the agenda is back on track.

“Though football was not being played, it was owed to the fact that the executives were suspended. When we got back re-elected, I believe the clubs

got back to the previous plans and the interest was revitalised,” Solomon said.

He further added that “after elections on October 1, the objectives were; return football to the ball field, bring people and our fans back to the game, and I believe those two objectives were met.”

Going forward, the President has highlighted areas where there is need for the game to be developed.

“I think we have room for improvement, it starts with administration, building capacity and in building capacity to strengthen the management of football, and also allow for clubs to follow suit in strengthening their ability to develop. This development should take place in accordance to our four year development plan”.

Assessing the coral relation between football and it being a positive learning for youths to be chartered in the right direction, Solomon said “in 2011, [we] held a programme call, ‘Man-Up: Be a Champion for Change’, football is on many levels the tool that used for social change, I believe football provides that opportunity. It provides for administrators to be very serious about the development works for the enhancement of youths and the community”.

The notion posited by some football enthusiast is that Linden is prime location for football due to the large fan base the Mining Town attracts. (akeemg@guyanatimesgy.com)

Giftland Mall delivers on promises to National School Champions

The champion athletes from each age category of the recently concluded National School Championships will be able to receive packages comprising school supplies after the company presented the packages to the organisers of the championships on Friday.

According to a press release, Giftland has been a long-term sponsor of the Ministry of Education and Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) National Schools’ Championships, and plans to continue its support of student-athletes to en-

sure that they become wellrounded individuals and ambassadors.

Marketing Assistant at Giftland Mall, Candacy Baveghems highlighted that the company is mandated to give back to Guyana.

“Our President, Mr (Roy) Beepat always says that Giftland is about giving back to Guyana, especially youth because they are the future,” Baveghems said.

She added that Giftland “is very pleased to be associated with Nationals” as General Secretary of the Union, Coretta McDonald

received the packages in the presence of other members of the Management Committee for the National Schools’ Championships.

The press release noted, McDonald thanked Giftland for their contribution toward the development of both athletics and academics, stating that it is such support that is required to move sport forward. According to the GTU General Secretary, Giftland’s support raises the profile of the Games.

Giftland will be partnering with the School Championships in an extensive deal that will feature

Mobile Wizards 10/10 cricket

Fireworks expected at Ruby Ground as games go under lights

The Mobile Wizard 10/10 softball cricket tournament, organised by Guyana Softball League (GSL) will be played under floodlights tonight at Ruby Ground, West Coast Demerara.

The atmosphere will be one for families as the organisers have made an extra effort to ensure the entire West Demerara has a part to play in this event.

The games to be played are as follows:

Parika Defenders vs Savage Masters

Parika Defenders are at home and will be looking to exploit this as the opposition are a competitive side and have shown the fierce rivalry between these two teams are short of nothing. Defenders

any team.

Viper XI vs Power XI

Both teams have lost a few and have match winners and big hitters in their team and on their day can upset anyone. The teams are evenly matched and will look to put some points on the table and get back to winning ways. The match will be a nail biter and the strongest will survive in a do or die situation.

Hill Foot Strikers vs West Coast XI

Hill foot Strikers are the Linden 10/10 champions and are out to prove themselves outside of Linden. They are a tight unit who are capable of taking any team the distance. The West Coast line up will feature players that

have in their line-up Asif Ahamad, who has been a thorn in many bowlers’ sides as his destructive batting has led his team to many victories. Savage Masters have the ability to win but the finishing touch is what is lacking. Players of the calibre of Nadir Baskh and Fallim Mohamed have the experience to take it all the way.

Omesh XI vs Leonora Youths

have been doing exceedingly well in this tournament and will hope to gel quickly in order to come out on top.

Wolf’s Warriors vs Speedboat SC XI

among other aspects, apparel for all the age-group champions and enrolment into its ambassador programme.

The programme will ensure that athletes become well-rounded individuals. It will provide for the holistic development of student-athletes with similar clauses to scholarship. Student-athletes will be able to benefit from funding for school programmes and athletics participation, and training in fields crucial to their development like public speaking.

Omesh XI is filled with talented players and dominated the first two matches they have played but have faltered lately. The return of Vickram Kissoon and Aftab Bacchus will boost their line-up as they try to stay in contention of quarter final berths.

Cross Breed Warriors vs Settle XI

Cross Breed Warriors have been making a name for themselves on the West Coast. They have a good bowling unit that will be tested by the Settle XI batting, since they have shown that they can take on any bowling attack with their experienced batters. The skipper of Settle XI has said he is ready for any team, as the confidence and momentum they have at the moment will gain them victory against

Both teams possess match winners and will rely on those members to perform on this night. The bowling of Speedboat and the mood of the warrior’s batsmen will change the game, as this is 10/10 and any team can take this one away. This game will decide who are the potential leaders after this round and can also see one team being emotionally drained in this tournament.

The games are part of the GSL’s effort to ensure the interest in softball cricket remains high on the West side. Slingerz and the one man band will be in attendance. Granny Ivelaw will also entertain the crowd and it is expected that the spectators that claim to be good at the softball game will come forward to challenge Granny Ivelaw at the One Ball “Manto”. The tournament is also sponsored by Wolf’s Furniture store, Trophy Stall, Rohan Furniture Establishment, Miss Love Trading and V&P supermarket.

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2015 - HC - DEM - CIV - P- 1049. IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE. DECLARATION OF TITLE: ALEXIA KIPPINS of Bendorff, East Bank Essequibo, Guyana, has presented a Petition for a Declaration of Title by prescription of the property described in the schedule attached hereto. Any person (s) intending to oppose the said petition must within one (1) month after the date of the first publication of this notice file in the Registry of the High Court in the City of Georgetown, Notice of his/her Opposition and an affidavit or affidavits in support thereof and serve a copy of this Notice and any affidavit/affidavits upon the said Petitioner. The said petition is accompanied by a plan of the said property which may be inspected at the Registry during office hours. Sgd. S.J. Poonai, Attorney-at-Law for Petitioner. Dated this 5th day of November, 2015.

S C H E D U L E: Sublot lettered ‘b’ being a portion of Block lettered “KI” being portion of Plantation Bendorff, situate on the East Bank of the Essequibo River, in the County of Essequibo and in the Republic of Guyana, the said Sublot lettered ‘b’ containing an area of 5.5145 (five decimal five one four five) acres being shown, laid down and defined on a Plan by J. Ramnauth, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 8th day of March, 2005 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 14th day of April, 2005, as Plan No. 37331. MEMORANDUM: The Petitioner address for service is at the Chambers of his Attorneys-at-Law, Mr. R.N. Poonai and/or Mr. S. J. Poonai of Lot 153, Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Guyana.

2015 - HC - DEM - CIV - PNo. 777. IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE DECLARATION OF TITLE. Bessasar Punit and Deochan Bessasar both of Lot E Little Abary, East Coast Demerara have presented this petition for a Declaration of Title by prescription of the property described in the schedule attached hereto. Any person (s) intending to oppose the said petition must within one (1) month after the date of the first publication of this notice file in the Registry of the High Court in the City of Georgetown, Notice of his/ her Opposition and an affidavit or affidavits in support thereof an serve a copy of this Notice and any affidavit/ affidavits upon the said Petitioners. The said petition is accompanied by a plan of the said property which may be inspected at the Registry during office hours. Sgd. R. N. Poonai, Attorneyat-law for Petitioners. Dated this 26th day of August, 2015. S C H E D U L E: Sublot lettered ‘BP’ of Lot lettered E, part of the eastern half of Abary, in the East Mahaicony Local Government District, situate on the east sea coast in the County of Demerara, Republic of Guyana, the said lot being show on a plan by H. O. Durham, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated 17th April, 1924 and deposited in the Deeds Registry at Georgetown on the 20th August, 1924 the said sublot lettered “BP” containing an area of 0.153 (nought decimal one five three) of an acre subject to a right of way measuring 18.58’ (eighteen decimal five eight) feet in width and running along the western boundary of lot D and leading to the public road the said sublot and right of way being shown on a plan by Khamraj Persaud, Sworn Land Surveyor dated the 13th day of August, 2014 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 28th day of August, 2014 as Plan No. 59582. MEMORANDUM: The Petitioners’ address for service is at the Chambers of their Attorneys-at-Law, Mr. R.N. Poonai and/or S. J. Poonai of 153 Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown.

2015 - HC - DEM - CIV - P-888. IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE. DECLARATION OF TITLE. JASSODRA KHAN of Lot 131 Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, has presented her Petition for a Declaration of Title by prescription of the property described in the schedule attached hereto. Any person (s) intending to oppose the said petition must within one (1) month after the date of the first publication of this notice file in the Registry of the High Court in the City of Georgetown, Notice of his/her Opposition and an affidavit or affidavits in support thereof and serve a copy of this Notice and any affidavit/affidavits upon the said Petitioner. The said petition is accompanied by a plan of the said property which may be inspected at the Registry

during office hours. Sgd. R.N. Poonai, Attorney-at-Law for Petitioner. Dated this 28th day of September, 2015. S C H E D U L E: Block lettered ‘X’ comprising of Lots lettered ‘P’ and ‘Q’ all being portions of Plantation Mon Repos West, within the Mon Repos/ La Reconnaissance Neighbourhood Democratic Council situate on the east coast of Demerara, in the County of Demerara and in the Republic of Guyana, the said Block lettered ‘X’ containing an area of 0.2033 (nought decimal two nought three three) of an acre as shown, laid down and defined on a Plan by R.K.V. Persaud, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 6th day of June, 2014 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 12th day of June, 2014, as Plan No. 58984. MEMORANDUM: The Petitioner address for service is at the Chambers of his Attorneys-at-Law, Mr. R.N. Poonai and/or Mr. S. J. Poonai of Lot 153, Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Guyana.

2015 - HC - E/BO - CIV - P- 62 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE. DECLARATION OF TITLE. MILTON DOOKIE of Lot 10 Hydronie, East Bank Essequibo, has presented a Petition for a Declaration of Title by prescription of the property described in the schedule attached hereto. Any person (s) intending to oppose the said petition must within one (1) month after the date of the first publication of this notice file in the Registry of the High Court in the City of Georgetown, Notice of his/ her Opposition and an affidavit or affidavits in support thereof and serve a copy of this Notice and any affidavit/affidavits upon the said Petitioner. The said petition is accompanied by a plan of the said property which may be inspected at the Registry during office hours. Sgd. R.N. Poonai, Attorneyat-Law for Petitioners. Dated this day of October, 2015. S C H E D U L E: Cultivation Lot lettered “e” being a part of the West Half of Plantation Hydronie, within the Hydronie/Good Hope Neighbourhood Democratic Council, situate on the East Bank of the Essequibo River, County of Essequibo, Republic of Guyana, the said Hydronie is being shown and defined on a diagram by Sworn Land Surveyor, Ernest Ethelbert Wight, dated 28th October, 1876 and deposited in the Deeds Registry on the 12th day of January, 1877 and the said Cultivation lot lettered “e” containing an area of 3.111 (three decimal one one one) acres, being shown, laid down and defined on a Plan by O. Singh, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 28th day of September, 2015 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 8th day of October, 2015, as Plan No. 62651. MEMORANDUM: The Petitioners address for service is at the Chambers of their Attorneys-at-Law, Mr. R.N. Poonai and/or Mr. S. J. Poonai of Lot 153, Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Guyana.

2015 - HC - DEM - CIV - P-944. IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE. DECLARATION OF TITLE. NAEEM MOHAMED of Lot 7 & 8 Sarah Johanna, East Bank Demerara, has presented his Petition for a Declaration of Title by prescription of the property described in the schedule attached hereto. Any person (s) intending to oppose the said petition must within one (1) month after the date of the first publication of this notice file in the Registry of the High Court in the City of Georgetown, Notice of his/her Opposition and an affidavit or affidavits in support thereof and serve a copy of this Notice and any affidavit/affidavits upon the said Petitioner. The said petition is accompanied by a plan of the said property which may be inspected at the Registry during office hours. Sgd. R.N. Poonai, Attorneyat-Law for Petitioner. Dated this 20th day of October, 2015. S C H E D U L E:

Block lettered ‘NM’, comprising portion of Block lettered ‘R’, Lots numbered 7 (seven) and 8 (eight) Plantation Sarah Johanna, within the Craig/Caledonia Neighbourhood Democratic Council, situate on the east bank of Demerara, in the County of Demerara, in the Republic of Guyana, the said Lots numbered 7 (seven) and 8 (eight) being laid down and defined on a Plan by H. Rainsford, Sworn Land Surveyor dated July, 1846 and the said Block lettered ‘NM’ containing an area of 1.00 (one decimal nought nought) acre, as shown on Plan by M.S. Azam, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 21st day of September, 2015 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 25th day of September, 2015 as Plan No. 62595. MEMORANDUM: The Petitioner address for service is at the Chambers of his Attorneys-at-Law, Mr.

R.N. Poonai and/or Mr. S. J. Poonai of Lot 153, Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Guyana.

2015 - HC - DEM - CIV - P- 805. IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE. DECLARATION OF TITLE. OLASEE PERSAUD of Lot 3 De Hoop, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, has presented her Petition for a Declaration of Title by prescription of the property described in the schedule attached hereto. Any person (s) intending to oppose the said petition must within one (1) month after the date of the first publication of this notice file in the Registry of the High Court in the City of Georgetown, Notice of his/ her Opposition and an affidavit or affidavits in support thereof and serve a copy of this Notice and any affidavit/affidavits upon the said Petitioner. The said petition is accompanied by a plan of the said property which may be inspected at the Registry during office hours.Sgd. R.N. Poonai, Attorneyat-Law for Petitioner. Dated this 31st day of August, 2015. S C H E D U L E: Firstly: Tract lettered “OP” comprising of Lots numbered 3 (three), 4 (four), 5 (five), 6 (six) and 7 (seven) inclusive part of Plantation Vygeval and Lots numbered 3A (three A), 4A (four A), 5A (five A), 6A (six A) and 7A (seven A) inclusive all being portions of Plantation Wilhelmina and Gorchum, Plantation Vevay, within the West Mahaicony Neighbourhood Democratic Council, all situate on the Right Bank of the Mahaica River, East Coast Demerara, in the County of Demerara and in the Republic of Guyana, the said Lots numbered 3 (three), 4 (four), 5 (five), 6 (six), 7 (seven), 3A (three A), 4A (four A), 5A (five A), 6A (six A) and 7A (seven A) are shown on a Plan by E.S.E. Parker, and the said Tract containing 17.70 (seventeen decimal seven nought) acres as shown, laid down and defined on a Plan by Dw. Ramkarran, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 10th day of April, 2015 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 8th day of May, 2015, as Plan No. 61562. Secondly: Sublot lettered “OP” being part of a piece of land called “C” and being portion of the east half of Lot numbered 11 (eleven), Plantation Vevay, within the West Mahaicony Neighbourhood Democratic Council, all situate on the Right Bank of the Mahaica River, East Coast Demerara, in the County of Demerara and in the Republic of Guyana, the said Sublot containing 0.4007 (nought decimal four nought nought seven) of an acre as shown, laid down and defined on a Plan by Dw. Ramkarran, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 10th day of April, 2015 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 8th day of May, 2015, as Plan No. 61562. MEMORANDUM: The Petitioner address for service is at the Chambers of his Attorneys-at-Law, Mr. R.N. Poonai and/or Mr. S. J. Poonai of Lot 153, Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Guyana.

2015 - HC - DEM - CIV - P - No. 838 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE. DECLARATION OF TITLE. Udit Narine also known as Odit Naraine and Varoundai Naraine both Belmonte, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, have presented this petition for a Declaration of Title by prescription of the property described in the schedule attached hereto. Any person (s) intending to oppose the said petition must within one (1) month after the date of the first publication of this notice file in the Registry of the High Court in the City of Georgetown, Notice of his/her Opposition and an affidavit or affidavits in support thereof an serve a copy of this Notice and any affidavit/affidavits upon the said Petitioners. The said petition is accompanied by a plan of the said property which may be inspected at the Registry during office hours. Sgd. S. J. Poonai, Attorney-at-law for Petitioners. Dated this 11th day of September, 2015. S C H E D U L E: Cultivation lots numbered 10 (ten) and 11 (eleven) of Section “A” North Vereeniging, situate on the Left Bank of the Mahaica River, County of Demerara, in the Republic of Guyana the said cultivation lots numbered 10 (ten) and 11 (eleven) containing an area of 1.08 (one decimal nought eight) and 1.08 (one decimal nought eight) acres respectively as shown and defined on a Plan by DW. Ramkarran, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 17th day of August, 2015 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Department on the 27th day of August, 2015 as Plan No. 62367. MEMORANDUM: The Petitioners’ address for service is at the Chambers of their Attorneys-at-Law, Mr. R.N. Poonai and/or S. J. Poonai of 153 Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown.

2015 - HC - DEM - CIV - P- 810. IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE. DECLARATION OF TITLE. YASMIN BIBI HOOSAIN of Little Biabu, Mahaica River, East Coast Demerara, Guyana, has presented a Petition for a Declaration of Title by prescription of the property described in the schedule attached hereto. Any person (s) intending to oppose the said petition must within one (1) month after the date of the first publication of this notice file in the Registry of the High Court in the City of Georgetown, Notice of his/her Opposition and an affidavit or affidavits in support thereof and serve a copy of this Notice and any affidavit/affidavits upon the said Petitioner. The said petition is accompanied by a plan of the said property which may be inspected at the Registry during office hours. Sgd. R.N. Poonai, Attorney-at-Law for Petitioner. Dated this 2nd day of September, 2015. S C H E D U L E: Firstly: Tract lettered ‘H1’ also called Tract lettered ‘A’ being part of the Southern Portion, Grant No. 3413 situate at a place known as Little Biabu, situate on the right bank of the Mahaica River, in the County of Demerara and in the Republic of Guyana, the said Tract lettered ‘H1’ containing an area of 0.817 (nought decimal eight one seven) of an acre, as shown, laid down and defined on a Plan by L.L. Rutherford, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 11th day of February, 2015 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 18th day of February, 2015, as Plan No. 60864. Secondly: Tract lettered ‘H2’ also called Tract lettered ‘B’ being part of the Southern Portion, Grant No. 3413 situate at a place known as Little Biabu, situate on the right bank of the Mahaica River, in the County of Demerara and in the Republic of Guyana, the said Tract lettered ‘H2’ containing an area of 5.034 (five decimal nought three four) acres, as shown, laid down and defined on a Plan by L.L. Rutherford, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 11th day of February, 2015 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 18th day of February, 2015, as Plan No. 60864. MEMORANDUM: The Petitioners address for service is at the Chambers of their Attorneys-at-Law, Mr. R.N. Poonai and/or Mr. S. J. Poonai of Lot 153, Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Guyana.

2015 - HC - DEM - CIV - P-811. IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE DECLARATION OF TITLE. YASMIN BIBI HOOSAIN of Little Biabu, Mahaica River, East Coast Demerara, Guyana, has presented a Petition for a Declaration of Title by prescription of the property described in the schedule attached hereto. Any person (s) intending to oppose the said petition must within one (1) month after the date of the first publication of this notice file in the Registry of the High Court in the City of Georgetown, Notice of his/ her Opposition and an affidavit or affidavits in support thereof and serve a copy of this Notice and any affidavit/ affidavits upon the said Petitioner. The said petition is accompanied by a plan of the said property which may be inspected at the Registry during office hours. Sgd. R.N. Poonai, Attorney-atLaw for Petitioner. Dated this 2nd day of September, 2015. S C H E D U L E: Firstly: Tract lettered ‘AH’ being part of the Northern Portion, Grant No. 3413 situate at a place known as Little Biabu, situate on the right bank of the Mahaica River, in the County of Demerara and in the Republic of Guyana, the said Tract lettered ‘AH’ containing an area of 1.649 (one decimal six four nine) acre, as shown, laid down and defined on a Plan by L.L. Rutherford, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 25th day of March, 2015 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 8th day of April, 2015, as Plan No. 61272. Secondly: Tract lettered ‘YH’ being part of the Northern Portion, Grant No. 3413 situate at a place known as Little Biabu, situate on the right bank of the Mahaica River, in the County of Demerara and in the Republic of Guyana, the said Tract lettered ‘AH’ containing an area of 11.044 (eleven decimal nought four four) acres, as shown, laid down and defined on a Plan by L.L. Rutherford, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 25th day of March, 2015 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission on the 8th day of April, 2015, as Plan No. 61272.MEMORANDUM: The Petitioners address for service is at the Chambers of their Attorneys-at-Law, Mr. R.N. Poonai and/or Mr. S. J. Poonai of Lot 153, Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Guyana starts preparation ahead of CFU Futsal tournament

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) held its first day of try-outs for the national futsal squad on Thursday at the National Gymnasium.

Under the guidance of Technical Director Claude Bolton and former National

Stag XVI

Coach Denzil Thompson, the team will prepare for the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) tournament slated for January 22-26, in Cuba.

Some of the top futsal players who were shortlisted by the GFF, converged at the National Gymnasium

where they will be evaluated by the GFF’s technical team.

The trial, which will conclude today, will see successful participants being asked to join a mini camp in the first part of January where the final selection

will be made.

Guyana will be placed in Group A with Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda and Haiti, while in Group B, host Cuba will be joined by St Maarten, Costa Rica and Guadeloupe.

The top two teams from the CFU tournament will advance to the CONCACAF Futsal Championship. The 2016 CONCACAF Futsal Championship will be held in Costa Rica in May.

Same as previous editions, the tournament acts as the CONCACAF qualifiers for the FIFA Futsal World Cup. The top four teams of the tournament will qualify for the 2016 FIFA Futsal World Cup in Colombia as the CONCACAF representatives.

Guyana last participated at the CFU Futsal Tournament in 2008, finishing fourth behind winners and host Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti (2nd place) and Suriname (3rd place).

knock out tournament launched – $1.5M first place prize up for grabs

BY AKEEM GREENE

The Stag XVI Football Tournament was launched on Friday at the ANSA McAL headquarters, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara.

Present at the launching ceremony was ANSA McAL Public Relations Officer

Darshanie Yusuf, President of East Bank Football Association Franklin Wilson, Stag Brand Coordinator Linden Henry, along with representatives of the West Demerara Football Association and East Demerara Football Association.

Yusuf reflected on last year’s success, stating that they are proud of the inaugural tournament. However, this year, they moved to a different area, as they aim to take the tournament around the country.

Yusuf underscored the magnitude of the sponsorship the company has given, stating “this is a substantial

sponsorship; in fact it might be the biggest sponsorship after the Stag Elite League, a league which has been terrific for us”.

She further stated that “our intention is to make sure football is played in this country whether on the ground level or the elite league on a substantial level where we can be proud of our players”.

The PRO added that the tournament will be exciting and patrons can expect a fantastic year end tournament.

Wilson in his comments said that the Berbice team is not involved as they looked to invite other associations.

However, the Berbice teams were invited to play another tournament in Georgetown Football Association (GFA).

Most importantly, Wilson stated that the invitational tournament will not be allowing any guest player as advised by Guyana Football Federation Technical

Director Claude Bolton, as the new FIFA and CONCAF regulations provide for a specific timeline for player transfers which is in August and January.

The EBFA President also indicated that the sponsors will also be providing transportation for teams to and from point of board and to the grounds and back; in addition to having refreshments for players and officials.

Wilson added that there could be the possibility of having elite teams take part, either in the opening game or the final, as a form of crowd attraction, since elite teams are not allowed to participate in the tournament itself.

Secretary of the East Demerara Football Association Gidel Austin said that he is happy to have football back in the East Demerara district after the impasse that surrounded football brought a halt to the game for a while.

GTT rugby tens’ set for thrilling finale today

BY TREISTON JOSEPH

Four of Guyana’s top rugby teams will line up for the grand finale of the GTT and the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) tens’ championship today at the National Park, in Georgetown.

At a press conference held on Friday at GTT headquarters on Hadfield Street, GTT’s Public Relation Officer Nadia De Abreu highlighted her pleasure with the tournament thus far.

“At some point during the New Year, we are looking forward to our youth programme but we must congratulate GRFU on the tens’ tournament and the teams on their participation,” De Abreu mentioned.

The final two playoff games will be played today, with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) leading the way on 11 points, while defending champions Pepsi Hornets are on nine points. The Yamaha Caribs and the University of Guyana (UG) Wolves are on five points apiece.

Meanwhile, defending champions Hornets are hoping to come out on top and Captain Delroy Gordon of the squad stressed the Hornets will defeat Caribs to give themselves a chance of retaining the title.

“There is no way Caribs

will beat us and we will ensure of that to give ourselves a chance to win,” Gordon quipped.

Nevertheless, debut Captain of the GDF men, Patrick King highlighted that GDF will remain as the ‘top dogs’ of the tournament.

“We are going there to take the championship away from Hornets, we will give 100 per cent. We have beaten the Hornets in this tournament and would do it again if we have to,” King stated.

However, UG Wolves have a chance of vaulting to second place if they should defeat GDF, and Captain of the squad Godfrey Brooms reminded those present of UG’s existence.

“We have a say in this and we have shown that we are at the top of the food chain in seven’s and 15’s and we are going out there tomorrow to show what we can do, especially against GDF,” Brooms highlighted. Caribs and Hornets will face off in the first play-off from 15:00h, while GDF and UG Wolves will battle in the second play-off. The team that finishes with the most points will win the tournament and with GDF on 11 points they are guaranteed a top two finish when action kicks off. There will also be age group rugby beginning from 10:00h.

Sparta Boss, Channel 9 Warriors

set for colossal final clash

BY TREISTON JOSEPH

NFirst place winners will receive $1.5 million, second place $500,000, third $300,000, and fourth $200,000. The first game will be played at the Leonora Stadium on December 16, where the Beavers will take on Herstelling Raiders from 18:00h then Uitvlugt will do battle with BV Triumph from 20:00h.

The teams participating in the tournament are Agricola, Den Amstel, Kuru Kuru Warriors, Mahaica, Ann’s Grove, Eagles, Beavers, Herstelling Raiders, Uitvlugt, BV Triumph, Victoria Kings, Stewartville, Golden Grove, Soesdyke Falcons, Pouderoyen and defending Champions Grove Hi Tech.

The first game will be played on December 1. The final is slated for January 1, 2016 at Leonora Track and Field Facility, where the organisers are planning to spice up the event by adding to the entertainment spectrum.

ew champions will be crowned this evening when the final of the Georgetown Guinness Greatest of the Streets futsal tournament is held at the National Park tarmac, in Georgetown. The tournament will feature Jamaican recording artiste Konshens.

Sparta Boss and Channel 9 Warriors will have a colossal clash in the final of the tournament that is expected to be one of the best editions of the Georgetown championship to date.

The Co-Director of the Petra Organisation, who is responsible for the organisation of the tournament, shared his thoughts on the final. “It will be the biggest finals ever, based on the response. We have two teams that can play – Sparta Boss with the never die attitude and the young Channel 9 Warriors, who are very exuberant – and I think the fans are in for a great treat tomorrow night,” Mendonca stated.

With the game being one of the more tactical of championships thus far and Channel 9 Warriors in their debut reaching the final of the tournament against a veteran side that are the current national champions,

Troy Mendonca

Mendonca also weighed in on each team.

“Well great tactical awareness has been shown from Channel 9 Warriors as well as Sparta Boss who when their backs are against the wall they change things up a bit, both offensively and defensively and it only augurs well for the competition,” Mendonca highlighted. Meanwhile, with Jamaican recording artiste Konshens expected to make an appearance, Mendonca noted that it is all a part of giving back to the fans and that it will only up the level of competition and the atmosphere as well.

The night’s action will start with a few exhibition games from 19:30h, while the Jamaican recording artiste is expected to perform before the final of the event. Admission is free.

Female volleyballers given rude baptism in Uruguay

late teens.

Guyana’s female volleyballers were given a rude baptism on their trip to Uruguay, where they competed in the South American Beach Confederation tournament recently.

The pairs of Subrina Munroe and Odile Broomes, and Iambie Cave and Daniella Collier lost all their games in straight sets, failing to score beyond eight points throughout the competition, which employed the 21 points format.

In giving a candid assessment of the team’s performance, Coach Ian Wills said it has become glaringly clear that local volleyball

LABA/Malta Supreme Christmas basketball tournament

posure of our weakness, the female national teams that wrapped up their campaign in the South American Beach Confederation Tournament on Sunday gone were easily brushed aside by seasoned beach volleyball teams from Paraguay, Bolivia, Colombia

To shed some light on the vast difference in the level of preparedness between Guyana and other South American nations, Wills explained, “In a discussion with players from Bolivia,

Wills revealed that the thick, loose sand on what he described as “proper beach courts” proved a challenge to the Guyanese girls.

“However, because of their better fitness level, the team of Subrina Munroe – Guyanese and West Indies cricketer – and Odile Broomes, they found it a bit easier to adjust to the resistance of the sand and managed to play some competitive points. Days two and three were no better resultwise, as the score lines were practically the same, but after their initial exposure and getting over their nerves, both teams showed flashing glimpses of competitiveness.”

Wills also believes that local coaches need the opportunity to advance their knowledge of coaching beach volleyball and proper volleyball techniques as a whole, as he is of the opinion that despite the fact that Guyana produces players especially in the Men’s game that can compete internationally, their downfall comes because their technical foundation is not solid enough.

With this is mind, Wills is hopeful the GVF will soon launch a properly structured programme through engagement of the national coach Levi Nedd and other senior local coaches geared

needs some sort of restructuring and a properly documented and well thought out plan to improve the quality and standard of the game in Guyana.

“[This must happen before we even] begin to set sights on competing in the high classed South American Confederation in which we find ourselves. This fact becomes clearer every time we compete in any international tournament, be it male, female or youth,” Wills ob-

the weakest team in this group apart from Guyana, they pointed out that after realising their deficiency in the beach aspect of the game, their federation made a conscious effort to focus and expose their players to beach volleyball some 30 years ago. Guyana, on the other hand, is now talking about constructing proper courts and playing facilities for beach volleyball.”

Apart from highlighting what is needed in Guyana,

Wills is of the strong view that a beach academy needs to be created where the Guyana Volleyball Federation (GVF) must start focusing on players as young as nine and 10 years old, the age he believes is perfect to start teaching players proper volleyball techniques.

This, he said, will allow them enough time to develop in the game so they can start being competitive internationally in their mid to

towards a long-term development plan for local volleyball.

From Group A where Guyana was placed, Uruguay, Columbia and Paraguay have qualified for the next round where they will compete with the top three qualifiers from Group B, all vying for the one remaining spot left available to the South American Confederation. Brazil has already qualified as the host country.

Colts fight back not enough to top Ravens

After pulling even with less than a minute to play, a crucial turnover caused the Colts to go down to the Dynas Ravens 87-85 on Wednesday evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall when the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) League Championships continued.

Colts point man Dave Causway made a bad pass with the score even, with 15 seconds left in the game.

Ravens’ Ryan Stephney wisely ran the clock down and made a swift pass into the big man Jermaine Slater who made no mistake with the clutch lay-up

Jermaine Slater

that dropped with less than a second to go in the game.

Tyrone Hamid would top score in the win for the Ravens with 23 points while Stephney ended with 22 points and Ryan Gulled 13 points. Dominic Vincent also contributed 10 points and Slater finished with eight points – two of the most the most important of the game.

Shelroy Thomas dropped a game high 25 points while Causway supported with 21 points in the nail biting loss.

Meanwhile, in the opening Under-23 matchup, Plaisance Guardians downed Pepsi Sonics 81-61.

Bulls top Jets in comeback win – Royals cruise past Flames

The Half Mile Bulls recovered after losing steam in the second and third quarters of play to come away with a 54-50 thrilling win over the Amelia’s Ward Jets, while the Victory Valley Royals chalked up another win by hammering past Bankers Trust Falcons 89-44, when the Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) Christmas basketball championship, sponsored by Banks DIH through their Malta Supreme Brand, continued at the Mackenzie Sports Club, Linden hard court on Wednesday night.

The Bulls, led by national players Terron Welch, with a game high 20 points, and Michael Turner with 15 points, piloted the Bulls home after starting the third quarter trailing by six points.

Parrish Cadogan dropped 14 points for the Amelia’s Ward Jets while national player Orin Rose contributed 10 points in the loss.

The other game saw the Victory Valley Royals taking full control of their clash with Bankers Trust Falcons with scores of 27-7, 49-21 and 68-30 before romping

Smalta

home with an 89-44 win.

In this win for the Royals, national player Harold Adams got a tournament high 34 points; while Marlon Pollydore with 14, Akeem powers 11 and Nevin Glen with 10 supported well.

Thornton Wilson and Lawrence Simon were the best scorers for the losing Falcons with 15 and 14 points respectively.

The championships will continue on Saturday with a double header with the first game at 19:00h between Jets and Flames and the next game 21:00h when the Raiders face the Royals.

pee wee girls to culminate today

BY TREISTON JOSEPH

The final of the

Smalta/ Public Health Ministry Pee

Wee girls football tournament, organised by the Petra Organisation, will culminate today at the Guyana National Service (GNS) ground on Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown.

The final will feature a grudge match between St Stephens Primary and Stella Maris Primary in a rematch of last year’s final that is likely to fuel determination by both squads to play their best in order to come out victorious.

In one corner, there is defending champions Stella Maris Primary and in the other corner, a St Stephens squad that has been on fire throughout the tournament.

Co-Director of the Petra Organisation, Troy Mendonca who is responsible for organising the event, shared his thoughts on the final. “The final is a repeat of last year’s final and from all indication, St Stephens seems as though they way to avenge their loss from last year, for some reason these young girls are so excited and I think people should come and give them the support tomorrow (today),” Mendonca stated. With fans probably witnessing little of the tournament thus far, Mendonca highlighted characteristics of both squads.

“It’s a very excited bunch of young ladies, they just go after it, they go at each other, they have no respect for one another in terms of play… you can expect two teams tomorrow that are going to put their heart out there and fight for it,” Mendonca shared. There will be six matches before the final that will rank the remainder of the teams from 3rd to 14th from 10:00h, while the final is expected to start from 13:00h.