Guyana Times Daily - November 7, 2015

Mexico rice deal too costly for Guyana to

– farmers could lose $$$ if prices not on par with lost Venezuela

prepare for countrywide strike on Sunday – GuySuCo given “unofficial” notice – one in custody

Gafoors donates $2M forlift simulator to Government Technical Institute

Guyanese deejay surrenders to Canadian authorities

DEA Office offering only technical help to drug interception in Guyana – US Ambassador Shopkeeper remanded on narcotics charges

Govt afraid of salary increases annulment motion

Hugo Chávez Centre aims to become self-sufficient – Minister Lawrence Expressions of Interest invited for consultancy services for new Demerara River Bridge

saturday, november 7, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Hugo Chávez Centre aims to become self-sufficient – Minister Lawrence

Preparing citizens who suffered from illicit substance abuse for their eventual return to society has been the function of the Hugo Chávez Centre for Rehabilitation and Reintegration since its commissioning. Now, another component is soon to be added to this institution’s mission; to make it self-sufficient. This will be done by introducing a number of initiatives, such as fish and poultry rearing, and a kitchen garden.

During an exclusive interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA), Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence reiterated that one of the biggest projects that is being undertaken by the institution is to ensure the production of food to meet its needs.

Minister Lawrence explained that the institu-

tion, located at Onverwagt, Region Five (MahaicaBerbice), utilised the National Tree Planting Day to launch the project. She further added that the institution has a very large land space and that the Ministry has appointed a consultant, who, along with the residents and the Region Five

Regional Administration, is assisting in preparing the land for planting legumes and vegetables.

There are also two fish ponds in the compound of the Centre, and Minister Lawrence added that the Agriculture Ministry will provide the fingerlings by the end of the week. The next project will be to install chicken coops to produce chickens and eggs.

Meanwhile, Minister Lawrence added that any person being enlisted in the Hugo Chávez Centre ought to go through an evaluation with a social worker, “because not every person recommended for the Centre should be there.” She said that the aim is to ensure that the residents are reintegrated into society and that they benefit from the ‘good life’ promised by the coalition Government.

The institution currently houses about 66 residents, some of whom are skilled and would normally go out and work in farms in the region. The Social Protection Minister added that the consultant is currently working with the Ministry to look at programmes that can be instituted to ensure that these persons are well equipped when they leave the institution.

“So how do we help them to utilise that skill in a more condensed and focused way to enhance their lives? We are looking at a programme to roll out next year for them. We will have two short courses to make things for the Christmas season, things that we can use in the Ministry so that they can be able to go out into the society rehabilitated, and again live a good life,” Minister Lawrence revealed.

GECOM to commence registration for LGE polls on Monday

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is moving into gear as it prepares to commence its Claims and Objection exercise on Monday, November 9, for the Preliminary List of Voters (PLV), as it prepares for the holding of Local Government Elections (LGE).

The exercise will be conducted in each of the nine municipalities and 62 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs). While the Claims aspect will end on Sunday, December 6, the Objections aspect will end the following Sunday.

According to GECOM, the purpose of this exercise is to produce the respective Register of Voters to be used for the conduct of LGE under the new system for the election.

The electoral body said the PLVs have been posted respectively at prominent locations in all of the constituencies, in every municipality and NDC.

“Anyone who will be 18 years old or over by February 29, 2016, and is a Guyanese citizen by birth, descent, or naturalisation or is a citizen from a Commonwealth country living in Guyana for one year or more, is eligible to register to vote at the upcoming Local Government Elections, providing he/she resides in a municipality or NDC,” GECOM said in a release.

Therefore, according to GECOM, any person who will be eligible to register during the exercise will also be able to apply for registration if his/her name is not on the relevant PLV, apply for a change of name if he/she has changed his/ her name since he/she was registered, apply for a correction if his/her information on the PLV is incorrect, or apply for a transfer if he/she is listed at an address where he/she no longer lives.

It said that if an eligible person fails to apply for a transfer, it could result in him/her not being allowed to vote in the municipality, NDC and constituency where he/she now resides.

Persons must be in possession of the following source documents as may be necessary to conduct any of the above transactions:

1. Original Birth Certificate or a valid Guyana Passport for persons applying for registration.

3. Original Naturalisation Certificate issued by the Home Affairs Ministry and original Birth Certificate/valid Passport – in the case of persons seeking to become registered by virtue of having acquired Guyanese citizenship via naturalisation.

4. Original Marriage Certificate (and original birth certificate) – in the case of a name change by marriage. Married women in possession of valid Guyana Passports with their husbands’ surname do not need to provide Marriage Certificates.

5. Original Deed Poll and original Birth Certificate – in the case of a name change by Deed Poll.

6. Original Birth Certificate/valid, Passport/ Marriage, Certificate/ Deed Poll/Naturalisation Certificate, as may be necessary to substantiate claims for corrections.

Baptismal Certificates, expired passports, photocopies of relevant documents or letters from Priests, elders, Headmasters, Village Captains/Toshaos and Justices of the Peace, and existing ID Cards will not be acceptable as source documents for registration. Persons who do not meet the above listed criteria are not eligible to vote at the upcoming LGE and therefore could be objected to if they are listed in the PLV.

Objections to the presence of the name of anyone in the PLV who do not meet the eligibility requirements to vote at the upcoming LGE could be made only by (i) accredited Scrutineers of political parties providing they have monitoring responsibilities for the Municipality/NDC/ Constituency in which the person being objected to is listed, and (ii) an elector who is listed in the same PLV as the person being objected to.

GECOM has established Claims and Objections Offices at strategic locations within all of the municipalities and NDCs. Anyone who is desirous of conducting any of the above transactions are required to visit the Claims and Objections office that is responsible for his area of residence.

All Claims and Objections offices will be open from Mondays to Fridays from 15:30h to 19:00h and on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 10:00h to 14:00h.

2. Original Birth Certificate/valid Passport and the Birth Certificate of one Parent in the case of application for registration by persons who are Guyanese by descent.

saturday, november 7, 2015 |

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Saturday, November 7 – 14:30h-16:00h and Sunday, November 8 – 14:30h-16:00h.

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

Saturday, November 7 – 14:00h-15:30h and Sunday, November 8 – 14:40h-16:10h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Weather: Thundery to heavy rain showers can be expected in the morning, while heavy rainfall is expected in the afternoon. Thundery showers are expected to return in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly between 3.57 metres and 5.36 metres per second.

High Tide: 01:23h and 13:48h reaching maximum heights of 2.25 metres and 2.34 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 07:19h and 19:45h reaching minimum heights of .92 metre and 0.87 metres respectively.

Govt mamaguying rice farmers…

Mexico rice deal too costly for Guyana to pursue

–

farmers could lose $$$ if prices not on par with lost Venezuela market

BY KRISTEN MACKLINGAM

Guyana will not be benefitting from a lucrative rice deal with Mexico should the APNU/AFC Government move to pursue this.

While it may be a new market, it will not be an ideal market for the Mexicans unless Guyana accepts extremely low prices for its rice shipments to that country.

Guyana Times understands that under the North American Free Trade (NAFT) agreement the primary rough rice shipment market for the United States of America (USA) is Mexico.

Presently the First World country exports a large bulk of its rice to Mexico annually and has been doing so for many years.

Guyana Times understands that last September, it was reported by “USA rice” online that one of the top packers in Mexico began shifting purchases back to US rice from Uruguay and other origins due to better prices, logistics and quality.

Recently, as a result of a large price spread between Uruguay and the US, this shifted the origin preference back to the US especially since the packer noted his preference to purchase from the First World country because of logistic advantages and seeking higher quality US rice.

It must be noted that the US already enjoys a significant quality, logistic and name recognition advantage in Mexico, especially against Asia.

According to this report, Mexican imports of rice are still dominated by paddy rice, but a shift has been taking place. Paddy used to be 95 per cent of imports but has been reduced to almost 75 per cent with milled rice constituting the remaining 25 per cent.

This newspaper also understands that in a recent report a few days ago by “USA rice” online the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) text confirmed that Mexico has agreed to eliminate all tariffs on rice imports from other TPP partners.

“The United States already enjoys duty-free access for rice into Mexico because of the North America Free Trade Agreement, so the largest beneficiary of this move is Vietnam. Mexico has agreed to eliminate all import duties on rice except for milled rice on the day the TPP agreement enters into force. Milled rice duties will decline from the current 20 per cent by 2 percentage points each year for 10 years and this reduction will begin after entry into force which is unlikely to occur until 2017 at the earliest,” it said.

The report went on to say that USA Rice COO Bob Cummings stated that his organisation faced an uphill battle in Mexico since it was

evident that Mexico’s government intended to liberalize rice trade with its TPP partners.

“The major threat is in milled rice and USA Rice worked closely with the Mexican Rice Council to preserve the US rice market in Mexico,” he reportedly said.

“USA rice” has deemed Mexico the number one export market for US rice restating that paddy rice dominates US exports and Mexico’s imports. However, it was also noted that the share of milled rice imports is on the rise, including from the United States, and Vietnam is likely to be a key competitor for the United States going forward.

Meanwhile, if Guyana should ink a deal with Mexico for the exportation of Guyana’s rice into that country then it would end up costing more to have it shipped from Guyana to Mexico in comparison to what the US would pay when shipping their rice to

Mexico.

In fact, the US sells its rice cheaper than that of Guyana and even if a smaller country like Guyana were to compete with rice prices against the US, it would mean that rice farmers would have to sell their rice to millers at a very low cost.

Should this happen in the case with Mexico and Guyana this would mean that not only has the APNU+AFC government caused the PetroCaribe deal with Venezuela to come to an abrupt end, but the administration would have failed to replace this lucrative market.

Currently the rice industry in Guyana continues to crumble and rice farmers are frustrated and aggravated with the losses they are suffering.

The price for an average bag of paddy is less than what it costs to produce and if they were to supply the Mexican market then they most likely will have to sell their paddy to millers at a cheaper price than it is being sold now.

Guyana Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo after attending the Open Governance Summit in Mexico City on October 27 where he met with Minister Calzada had stated that during that meeting a commitment was made by the Mexicans to buy some of Guyana’s paddy. Meanwhile, it must be reminded that statistics released by the administration revealed that Guyana’s production in the first half of 2015 was 359,960 tonnes, 15.3 per cent more than last year’s record high firsthalf production of 312,283 tonnes.

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

Road carnage

Every year in November, Guyana observes Road Safety Month. This year, Guyana is observing the month under the theme, “Be wise, stay alive, stop speeding, don’t drink and drive”.

Sadly this month began with four persons being killed within two days on the Corentyne Highway. Over the past week, 15 people have been injured in separate accidents which have been reported in the media. The first 11 persons were injured in an accident at Mahdia, followed by three others in Corentyne and a Policeman in Georgetown. This comes even as the Government calls for road users to be more cautious and express more care on the roads.

As a matter of fact, President David Granger on Wednesday announced a proposed three-point plan, which if used, can meaningfully decrease road carnage. Outlining the plan, the President spoke of the need to be more stringent with traffic laws, which are in dire need of strengthening. More so, the Head of State called for the tauter enforcement of traffic laws.

But even as these are being proposed there must be a prerequisite educational programme about cellphone use while driving and driving over the speed limit. However, for this to work, an unbendable system must be implemented for those Traffic Officers who may be tempted to take an inducement and allow these defaulters to go free. We indeed live in a society where persons obviously feel that slipping through traffic offences are an easy phenomenon, since these officers are easily persuaded.

Statistics released by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) have shown there were 76 recorded fatal accidents from January to September 30. But if we were to add the fatalities from September to now, we are assured that we will be alarmed. Meanwhile, the Police statistics also highlighted that speeding continued to be the leading cause of fatal accidents. Other causes included driving under the influence of alcohol, failure to conform to road signage, error of judgment and breach of traffic light signal. Guyana has the worst ranking in road fatalities in the Caribbean and this fact is very worrisome.

The proposal as announced by the Head of State also calls for proper engineering, particularly the structure of the roads. Since Guyana does not have major highways, but rather roadways, the President is calling for these to be safer, with additional side sidewalks and pavements. However, even if all of these are implemented, there must be more rigorous measures to deal with drunk driving and certainly a 02:00am curfew for the closing of driving spots and nightclubs will not curb this problem.

What the Government and Opposition needs to do to curb the temptation of drinking and driving, is to move to the National Assembly and pass legislation that will turn the offence of causing death by dangerous driving under the influence into an offence of manslaughter. Certainly, accidents do happen, there is no doubt, but this can be reduced if more caution and care is articulated on the roadways.

As we head to the busiest time of the year and as we bring the curtains down on 2015, in a matter of less than two months, it is hoped that Guyanese express much more appreciation for life and approach our roadways with more respect. However, more importantly it is hoped that our Parliament can bring more semblance to the roads but implementing firmer legislation to deal with offenders.

We can eradicate suicide

Dear Editor,

Our little country Guyana has become one with the fastest rate of suicide in the world today. Actually everyday somebody commits suicide. Most of the people who are committing suicide are very young teenagers and middleage folks — none whose age exceeds. Suicide has now become a global phenomenon among the educated, aristocrats, drug users, teenagers, poverty stricken communities, religious communities and even among millionaires.

Suicide can be prevented among the young and old if they are properly guided by their parents but we have a breakdown in family values where divorce and separation have become the order of the day thus pushing our young people to become unwanted, unloved and rejected – rejection is the key to suicide all because of human selfishness.

Suicide is the act of killing yourself intentionally, or is taking an action that is very destructive to your self-interests.

What cause one to commit suicide? Many people in many homes feel rejected by their wives, husbands, siblings, they are abused verbally sometimes on a daily basis thus leading them to commit suicide.

Some are depressed from long-term incurable sicknesses, some are depressed and oppressed by poverty and financial problems, and some are rejected and left alone by their husbands to fend for their kids; some have failed exams and failed in business, failed in their marriage; their friends and loved-ones have failed some thus pushing them to commit suicide.

These victims feel lonely and rejected by society and even rejected by their own selves. Suicide has grown to be a mental and psychological

phenomenon globally.

Then we have those who fall in love for the first time like Romeo and Juliet, who take their own lives for the one they love because they were prevented from marrying the one they love; then we have those who kill the one they love then take their own lives. Then we have some who dabble in witchcraft/obeah whose own demons have turned against them; and the long dismal list goes on.

Suicide is also inherited from generations of families. When I was studying literature I read books by a very great American writer, Ernest Hemingway. After reading a biography about this great author, I was flabbergasted to learn that most of the Hemingway family committed suicide including Ernest who shot himself through his mouth with a gun. Most people who committed suicide are unbelievers in God or atheists.

Suicide can also be a way of life from many false religions that teach ‘’you can die and be reborn again and again and maybe to be a King or Queen in your next birth. That is absolutely false. The Bible teaches in Hebrews: ‘’And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.’’

The scripture did not say that we will die and reborn several times. King Solomon also wrote: “For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:14

All of us will die someday but at God’s appointed time. The Psalmist David wrote: ‘’With long life I will satisfy him, And show Him my salvation.” Psalms 91:16.

This long life meant we will live over seventy years with a full purpose to achieve our dreams in life.

Our own poet Martin Carter wrote: ‘’I do not sleep to dream but dream to change the world.’’

We must have a dream to change this nation and the world. Suicide will cut short our dreams, visions and goals in life. More than 90% of the people who commit suicide are Indo-Guyanese.

Suicide can be prevented if our people are more spiritual and God conscious when they can discover that we are all children of God, and we are born with a purpose to achieve, excel, and overcome our obstacles in life by prayer and meditation to God.

The scriptures informed us as follows: ‘’For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’’ (Jeremiah 29:11)

Here we see in this scripture that God has a future and hope for us as a nation and as a people.

Jesus Said in Matthew 22:37: Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

If we can love God then we will love our life and see the worth and dignity why we are here on this earth to live a life with a great purpose and a hope to be an inspiration and blessing to our family, friends and community.

People who commit suicide have no knowledge of the after-life. They can kill their bodies but cannot kill their souls. Suicide is not only a psychological problem, it’s also a demonic problem where an evil spirit will enter into a person’s mind telling him to commit suicide.

Not very long ago a mother brought her young twelveyear son to my church alter for prayer she told me she moved into a new home and her son was having some horrible

dreams of demons and devils killing him. Then the boy told me a voice will tell him audibly to kill himself but he wouldn’t see the person but only in dreams. I prayed for him and went to pray for the house and the child was free from dreams and voices. I have counselled lots of people with suicide tendencies.

I discovered as a Pastor, academic and religious leader that very few people in our country want to come to church or want counselling when they are in problems. Most folks go to church Good Friday, Old Years Night, Christmas and Easter Sunday or when there is a funeral or wedding. Sometimes more than half the people who attend church are not members but they just go to meet friends like a social event but have no real interest in living a life of Godly principles.

Religious leaders and leaders from academic circles have a hard time to deal with people who are very selfish and self-opinionated.

Suicide is not the answer to our problems; it reduces our population and destroys our morality as a people. It’s about time our people go back to their churches, and I am calling on our religious and political leaders to work with our people on a one-to-one basis. May I ask the Minister of Education and our Parliament to introduce religious education in our schools to educate our pupils and students spiritually and morally to deal with real issues and philosophy about life.

We can eradicate suicide if we do home visits and build our people to comprehend that God has a great purpose and plan for their lives on this earth.

Yours faithfully, Rev Gideon Cecil

saturday, november 7, 2015

GuySuCo’s misinformation

Dear Editor,

It was disturbing to learn, according to a report in the November 4, 2015 edition of Stabroek News, that GuySuCo’s CEO advised that the Corporation failed to produce about 6000 tonnes sugar arising from the sugar workers three-day protest action.

The goodly gentleman, who has worked for many years in sugar, could not have been truthful as he is fully well aware that the disclosure is misleading. The threeday strike was from Sunday to Tuesday. It is a known fact that even in the best of times, turnout of harvesters on Sundays is less than 50% of a normal weekday turnout. It means that the CEO was alluding to almost 2000 tonnes sugar being produced per day, including Sunday.

Let the CEO point to any Sunday in the life of GuySuCo where 2000 tonnes sugar was produced, or let him point to anytime that 6000 tonnes were produced between Sunday and Tuesday of any week.

How could the company fail to produce the sugar given that the canes remain in the cultivation? Additionally, it is GuySuCo that boasted perpetually in the past about “solid canes in the ground” whenever they could not achieve production levels due to their own mismanagement. However, it appears that the “solid cane in the ground” principle does not apply in the case of protest action. The hullabaloo lacks any basis and cannot withstand scrutiny.

The CEO is also reported to have said that the industry lost a further $38M arising from stale canes that either were discarded or deteriorated due to the workers’ action. This like his previous assertion cannot hold water.

Can the CEO advise the public whether any canes were discarded and if so where? If there weren’t any discarded canes, he needs to provide empirical data that supports the extent of deterioration that resulted in 438 tonnes sugar being lost.

It is known that the factories process canes which have been burnt for over ten days even though the sugar recovery is not 100 per cent. Certainly canes burnt for about 3 to 4 days are still prime for sugar conversion. Is it that the CEO is being “intellectually dishonest” to use the Honourable Minster of Agriculture words?

I also noticed that the Corporation disclosed that during the strike it utilized diesel costing some $12.6M to maintain its factories. Using a price of $163 per litre for diesel, it meant that GuySuCo consumed about 77,300 litres of diesel during the strike period. The article, however, made mention 3000 litres per factory per day ie 63,000 litres over the period.

Is it that GuySuCo is purchasing diesel above market price or deliberately inflated its diesel consumption upon instruction from someone?

GuySuCo needs to explain.

Why does the top brass of the Corporation’s Management Team submit that the recent GAWU three-day strike was more effective than it was?

Such portrayal is not in the interest of the Corporation.

Clearly, the credibility of the Corporation and the genuineness of their statements are under doubt in my view. The GuySuCo, through its reported statements, has inflicted further insult to the injuries already suffered by the sugar workers.

Yours truly, Alvin

Perriera

This madness on the roads must stop

Dear Editor, I would like to express my profound frustration as a new driver on the roads of Guyana and as someone who has driven for years in developed countries. Words cannot begin to express how exasperated I am as a taxpayer when I have to commute the roads of Guyana which in my mind equates to the experience of pulling teeth.

When one starts to drive in and around Guyana you really began to get a sense of how third-world we really are and the gap separating us from the modern world. I do not wish to fault the present regime for this gross neglect but I have to ponder why did the past administration in 23 years of rule did not make road construction and better management of the transport and road system a priority — despite being a tiny population on a sprawling land of 215,000 sq km (83,000 sq miles) with more riches than we know what to do with.

I do not wish to be long winded in this letter, but what is going on on the roads and Guyana is sheer madness and wonder why any foreign investor would ever be attracted to doing business in the cities and urban areas of this country.

Editor, when law-abiding drivers take to the streets of Georgetown their stress levels and heart rates must go up, and I begin to wonder how we got to this point and what radical new steps must be taken, inclusive of scraping everything we currently have and starting over by building a new modern capital in a some remote part of the jungle.

There is nothing, absolutely nothing enjoyable

about driving in Guyana and we must realize that this too adds to many stresses the average Guyanese have to face on a daily basis.

How did it get this bad? Why are our roads so poor that even when a new one is constructed it takes mere months for uneven sections and pot-holes to develop?

Who are the contractors that built these roads, where are they? Do we have a list of their names to ensure we never do business with them again?

How can a new road in a highly trafficked and populated community be barely able to accommodate two lanes of traffic? One glaring example is the Industry road on the East Coast Demerara. You almost certainly have to get off that road to allow oncoming vehicles to go by.

Who made those decisions? Were there qualified engineers advising, are the various authorities (eg NDC, etc) able to give their valid opinion on correct road design, width, structure, etc? Are there considerations for aesthetics when designing like is done in developing countries? Was any foresight into the expected population growth and traffic of an area and the type of road needed given?

Surely, the rich and the poor, the elite and the average Joe has to traverse the same road. Are these things oblivious to our politicians in their fancy Prados? Where is the shame, where is the outcry when our roads go from bad to despicable in a country with our size and wealth. Can’t we afford to construct a few measly miles of decent roadways for citizenry?

Maybe it is more important to build billion dollar hotels in

a capital which no one wants to visit and has zero tourists appeal than it is to build a decent transport system.

Why in Guyana do we not implement a curb structure in our road design to stop the seepage of water from undermining our roads, enhance its longevity and looks, stop crumbling and help keep a balance of order and uniformity typically seen in the streets of our Caribbean neighbours?

Surely, my heart goes out to the new administration. I am hoping that with the salary increase for Ministers shoved down our throats that we begin seeing results, and with that the tireless energy needed from our dear and sage-like Ministers now expected to be given to these endeavours, maybe then can I begin to feel a bit of ease and optimism.

I must close by noting that we are about to Celebrate our 50th anniversary of the existence of the Republic of Guyana and yet today in 2015 we are yet to have anything in the semblance of a respectable, modern and vibrant city/township.

In addition to dodging pot holes, unmarked and obscenely narrow roads, abysmal lack of signage, abysmal lack of street lights in most of the country, stray animals

of all varieties, the drunkard on his bicycle (one in every village), the bombastic minibus driver who callously and suddenly stops in the middle of traffic to collect a passenger disregarding traffic behind, or the congestion caused, complete lack of courtesy and driving etiquette, Mr or Mrs King, and Mr or Mrs Singh whose public roads are for their own private use or to store construction materials thus inhibiting access of roadway. There is another more sinister demon in Guyana and that is the disgusting, dangerous, erratic and bullying attitude of fellow drivers and those that give scant regard to speed limits, the law, their lives, and those of others… but that is a whole new letter.

I would like to encourage the new administration to seriously look at revamping the road construction and transport system of this country and the time has come for Guyanese to have a highway system of their own and be able to traverse and see other parts of their country, and we can start with a proper highway route to Lethem…the possibilities are endless.

Sincerely, Average Joe

Page Foundation

When one sibling is harsh toward another

Children who touch too roughly, or hug too tightly, or hit or poke or hurt their siblings are sending clear signals that they have some upsets that need to be listened to. Even very young children can be gentle with younger ones, as long as they are feeling “filled up” with attention, and relaxed.

So any sign of harshness from one sibling to another can be taken as a sign that the child is not connected or relaxed enough to function thoughtfully. When you notice that a child has been rough, scolding him or ordering him to do things correctly won’t help. This only frightens your child more, and makes it less likely that he’ll be able to act thoughtfully.

What does help is to move in quickly and gently. Very gently but firmly stop the tense child from touching the younger child, but don’t remove him. Say, “I’ll help you be next to Sammy,” and guide his hands or his kisses so that they land softly, Move so that you can make eye contact with the older child, and invite him kindly to take a look at you.

Usually, because the child is tense with upset, he can’t look at you for long, and when he tries, the upset begins to make him want to go away. Gently stay with him and keep him close, continuing to let him feel your attention and your support.

Usually, the child will move rather quickly into a tantrum or a big cry about wanting you or not wanting you, or about wanting to touch the baby, or not wanting the baby. All those feelings are important facets of the nugget of upset he’s trying to offload. If you stay with him, without criticism, he’ll be able to cry or tantrum it through.

It’s also very common for feelings of frustration and competition for attention and for toys disturb siblings’ good intentions sooner or later. When there’s a tug-of-war over you, or over a desired thing, you can help your children by listening the feelings through.

Children can tolerate necessary

unfairness (Daddy isn’t going to give Sally the hammer because she could easily hurt herself, but Kenny can handle it) as long as the feelings of frustration or insult are heard. Feelings that are listened to all the way through are feelings that evaporate afterward.

When you listen to crying or frustration, the child lets the awful feeling out, and your attention and caring then flow in. So siblings can get back to loving each other, even when you can’t give them the same experiences, or the same amounts, or the same time, or the same toys.

Below, we’ve broken down some of the most common struggles parents encounter when raising siblings. In each section, you’ll learn some insight behind the behaviour struggles and some ideas for how to intervene or prevent it.

A guide to proactively preventing sibling rivalry

An important strategy for parents of siblings is to notice what the likely “fight times” are.

Sometimes it is car rides, sometimes it’s during beforedinner play, and sometimes it’s when you’ve left them in a room together for more than five

fight won’t erupt.

In a way, our own hopes can be as irrational as our children’s fights. When their “gas gauge” is nearing empty, it’s time to put in more attention. You are the one who can plump up their capacity for tolerance. They depend on their sense of connection with you for the well-being of their relationship with each other.

For instance, if your children traditionally get into trouble with each other right after you bring them home in the evening, try getting down on the floor to play with them right when you walk in the door, to re-establish your connection with each of them.

You may need to have carrot sticks and peanut butter as car food on the way home, to handle the immediate hunger problem, so that dinner can be cooked after playful connections have been made.

Games like, “I have 10 kisses for each of you” or “The Vigorous Snuggle” can turn into contests that bring lots of laughter and reassurance after a day of being separated. Sometimes, children will work together

ready for “trouble.”

My son, who is older, and daughter were sitting at the table. It was dinnertime, and my son almost always finds a way to get upset with his sister at dinner! I prepared myself mentally beforehand, telling myself that their fight was going to happen, and that I could intervene without getting angry.

I sat my son right next to my daughter, instead of sitting between them – which I often do to try to keep a fight from happening. We hold hands before a meal, and take a moment to give thanks. So I said, “OK, let’s hold hands.” My son immediately protested. I said, as gently as I could. “Come on, hold her hand now.” That’s all it took to get them going.

minutes. You know very well the patterns of upset they’ve developed.

We parents find ourselves upset and frustrated at our children when they fight, even when we know exactly when they always fight. We are better at keeping a level head if we give up hoping (beyond realistic hope) that a

to “keep you away,” strengthening their bond as the powerful and clever children who can evade the kisses of their bumbling but determined parent.

Here’s the story of one father who prepared himself mentally, and the good results he got from the listening he was able to do because he was

My son said, “Don’t force me!” And I said, “I’m not forcing you, but it would be good to hold your sister’s hand.” I didn’t make him do it, but I didn’t give up on the idea that he could do it. He began to cry, and ran from the table. I followed after him into the next room, and he cried, saying that how his sister always hurts him and teases him and kicks him. I kept quiet about the things I know he does to her, and didn’t argue at all, just listened to the wrongs he felt.

He cried for a long time. He didn’t come back to the table a completely loving brother, but later that night, I heard him talking to her very sweetly, saying, “Do you want me to pick you up? Want me to carry you?” Normally he doesn’t want to get physically close to her at all. And as I do more of this listening, I see that they’re starting to play together more, and he’s hugging her sometimes. It’s unbelievable, actually! I’m really excited that things are loosening up between them.

It’s a real challenge for us, because we are so tired of their fights and their attitudes toward each other. It’s hard to be kind and gentle when the fights begin. But we’re getting the payoff, bit by bit. (Handinhandparenting.org)

The ageby-age guide to raising a child who cares

– it’s never too early to teach children to see the significance of giving to people in need

(Continued

BY BETSY STEPHENS

Two to three years

Show : This is the time when children’s cognitive and language skills develop further. They can identify when people are sad, happy, and angry, and they’re able to find similarities between their own feelings and those of others. Through symbolic play they take on different roles and even start to anticipate needs. For instance, your child might act out a scene of a monster attacking a kitten that she may try to rescue. This indicates she’s not only concerned about those who need help but is also sorting out how she can help. Now can be an ideal time to talk to her about how good you feel when you help others, and to lead by example. Picture books can also bring meaning to a topic your child might not otherwise grasp. Their characters and plotlines can make an abstract concept, such as cancer, more concrete, linking it to emotion. “Helping a child grasp the idea of philanthropy isn’t about telling, telling, telling,” explains Dr Scarlett. “It’s showing, showing, showing.”

Four to six years

Engage: Somewhere between the ages of four and and the pieces come together, says Georgia Michalopoulou, PhD, Chief-of-Staff for child psychiatry and psychology at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Detroit. Children are capable of imagining what it feels like to be in someone else’s situation. “A five-yearold can relate to what it might be like for another child in the hospital, without his toys, pets, or friends,” says Dr Michalopoulou. Present situations to help your child link feelings to actions: If his friend’s cookie falls in the dirt, would it help to share his own cookie? At this age, your child still won’t likely be able to comprehend large global issues such as world hunger. He can, however, understand not having enough food to eat. Focusing on the smaller problems within the larger issues will help him decide how to make a difference. Maybe a family without food might like a box of cereal bars or a jar of peanut butter? (www. parents.com)

New born baby’s fall at GPHC…

Criminal action likely against those culpable – Health Minister

...In-depth probe launched into GPHC incident

Health officials who attended to Pholmattie Ramjattan, during her delivery at the Georgetown Public Hospital on Tuesday could face criminal charges if an ongoing investigation finds them to be culpable for the injuries her newborn baby sustained.

This is according to Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton, who said there are many questions that need to be answered in this troubling case.

“We know the baby fell, a CAT scan was done and there was damage to the baby. We are hoping that we will find out all that took place because we are not only involving the nurses, we are involving those who are in charge of the nurses, the supervision that the nurse had. We want to know if it is a norm of putting babies on the cot without the rails (Because the cot has

rails but it was not up).

He said immediately after the incident, he along with senior officials and the nurses who were involved, had an emergency meeting where an investigative team was also put together to examine the case. Minister Norton said should the investigation find anyone responsible, strict actions will be taken.

“I am telling you with a hard heart, if criminal negligence is found to be the case, it will be handed over to the Police. But so far, the investigation has not finished as yet”.

Details from the Georgetown Public Hospital state that the male newborn was delivered on November 3, at the Hospital and within an hour of his birth, he fell from the cot on which he was placed.

The Hospital in a statement on Thursday said that the newborn was examined

and tests were conducted.

According to the Hospital, the child sustained injuries and his condition was being “closely” monitored, should a situation develop.

According to a report on The Independent Guyana (TIG) online news network, the mother of the baby has been identified as 27-yearold Poulmattie Ramjattan of Unity Village, East Coast Demerara.

DEA Office offering only technical help to drug interception in Guyana – US Ambassador

DEA Office will only be giving technical assistance on drug interception in GuyanaAmbassador Holloway

The US Drug Enforcement office in Guyana would play no part in the actual Guyana Police Force’s interception of drug suspects and narcotics, but will instead be providing intelligence and other data that would help their local counterparts carry out the interception.

This was clarified today by US Ambassador Perry Holloway who addressed attendees at the signing of the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative’s (CBSI’s) “Letter of Amendment Three Point Two.” The US Ambassador explained that “when [the Drug Enforcement Agency] DEA comes here, it is coming in a technical assistance,

advisory role... They are not Policemen in Guyana. They are not going to be kicking down doors and taking people under arrest, but they will be consulting with the different entities in Guyana,” he said. He also noted that the

office does have certain information that it would get from cases in the United States and other systems that “they would be able to share with Guyana, to help them better direct their investigation, and hopefully in the end, that would lead to less narcotic activities on the streets of Guyana.”

Narcotic activities can lead to a lot of other crimes, Ambassador Holloway noted, adding that “if we can cut down on narcotic activities, we can cut down on crimes.”

The Ambassador also restated that the office should be up and running with permanent staff no later than January 2016. “If it slips, it should not slip for more than a couple of weeks, but roughly January is the date we are planning.”

The report stated that the mother went to the medical institution on Tuesday about 03:00h and delivered her baby at 07:30h. According to the report, the delivery was successful, but the mother was not allowed to touch the baby as was customary.

After a while, the woman reportedly made her way to the nursery where she noticed that her baby was

wrapped in a piece of cloth and as such, enquired why the baby was not dressed in the clothes she provided.

She was told, the report stated, that the baby had landed on a warmer and had to undergo an X-Ray to determine if he had sustained any injuries.

The X-ray, the mother said, revealed that the infant suffered a concussion. Part of the baby’s head is swollen and he is being monitored in the Intensive Care Unit of the medical facility.

As the parents sought answers from the Hospital’s administration, they were told that the baby will have to undergo surgery. Guyana Times understands that the baby is scheduled for surgery at 08:00h today.

It was further reported that Minister Norton had visited the hospital where he met with the staff that delivered the baby on

Tuesday morning and was seemingly upset.

Nevertheless, this newspaper was told that once the investigation is completed, the findings will be made know to the public. A hospital source told this publication that the baby was in stable condition and was being monitored on a regular basis. The source added that the report pertaining to the investigation is expected to be handed over to the Hospital’s administration shortly.

Meanwhile, giving an update on the investigations into maternal deaths at the Georgetown Public Hospital, Norton said that the most recent incident involving the teenage mother showed that there was some damage done to her spleen. He said he hopes that at the end of that investigation, it could be explained since the spleen is a sensitive organ.

Guyanese deejay surrenders to Canadian authorities

Popular Guyanese deejay Dwidth Ferguson, 32, attached to the Hits and Jams Entertainment company, has reportedly surrendered himself to Canadian law enforcement authorities for questioning into his alleged involvement in a multinational drug trafficking and gun running ring.

Guyana Times understands that the deejay turned himself in to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police on Wednesday in the company of an Attorney.

This comes more than three weeks after a wanted bulletin was issued for his arrest. At the time, 12 persons were also arrested, as they were believed to have been part of a drug trafficking and gun running enterprise among Guyana, Trinidad, the United States and Canada.

Several of those persons have since been charged and

released on bail.

A number of search warrants were executed as part of an operation in Toronto, Canada, back in October, leading to the seizure of 22 firearms, Cdn$146,000 in cash, four cars and when combined with the hauls from three other related investigations, a total of 123 kilograms of cocaine was unearthed.

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Chief, Superintendent Rick Barnum revealed that additional investigation by Police ranks led to other arrests in the United States and Newfoundland.

He added that the 100 or more officers tasked with conducting the investigation succeeded by “being there when (the accused) let their guard down”.

“This industry of dealing drugs and firearms is really based on greed. Sometimes these folks are so greedy and think they’re so good at their game, but we’ll be there when they’re not,” he said. The investigation, dubbed “Project Monto”, involved the OPP, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, York Regional Police, Peel Regional Police, Toronto Police, Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, and various law enforcement agencies from the United States.

saturday, november 7, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com

Police Officer on bail for fraud

APolice Officer charged with changing border entries for passengers was on Friday released on $100,000 bail by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan after he appeared before her in Court Two of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, slapped with the charge.

Yonick Smith, age 30, of Lot 457 Block 8 Mon Repos,

East Coast Demerara, pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on Sunday, May 17, at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), while being employed in the capacity of a Clerk or servant by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Immigration Department, with intent to defraud, he made a wrong entry in the border management sys-

tem. It was revealed by Police Prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones that the officer has been a serving member of the GPF for eight years; however, he was transferred to the Tactical Service Unit (TSU) after an investigation was launched. The Prosecutor did not object to bail and the matter was

adjourned to December 14.

According to reports, the defendant was stationed at CJIA, when some Cuban nationals entered Guyana. Consequent to an agreement with them, he changed the entry logs to Canada rather than Cuba, which can allow them to travel back and forth without being detected by the authorities.

Shopkeeper remanded on narcotics charges

ASouth Ruimveldt, Georgetown, shopkeeper was on Friday remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in Court

Two of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, after he appeared before her slapped with several narcotics trafficking charges.

Forty-year-old Warren Stouffle of 3 Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt, denied the allegation which read that between September 4 and November 4, at Georgetown, he trafficked narcotics; that is to say, he conspired with Shanda

Nicasie Nickels to traffic 4.160 kilograms of cocaine. He also pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that on November 4 at Aubrey Barker Road, he had in his possession six grams of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.

Police Prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones revealed to the court that these charges coincide with those of Nickels. It was related that Nickels was charged for drug trafficking and was sentenced to three years imprisonment at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court on a related charge. The Prosecutor explained

that Nickels gave a statement to the Police incriminating the defendant which indicated her willingness to testify against him. Based on information garnered from Nickels’ statements, the ranks went to the defendant’s home at Lot 3048 Aubrey Barker Road and not Lot 3 as was presented to the court by the defendant. He further related that on November 4, the ranks approached the defendant at the gate of his residence and carried a search on his person, during which the illegal substance was found in his pocket.

The defendant’s

Attorney Euclin Gomes made an application for bail, after alleging that the charges were made due to an ongoing feud between the Police and Stouffle. The Prosecutor objected to bail, citing the nature and gravity of the charge, adding that there were no special reasons put forward for bail to be granted. The objections were upheld and bail was denied. The man was remanded to prison and the matter was transferred to Court Five for November 23 where it will appear before Magistrate Fabayo Azore for report and fixture.

WCD woman remanded on drug trafficking charge

Awoman was on Friday remanded to prison by Magistrate Judy Latchman in Court Three of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts after she appeared before her charged with trafficking in narcotics.

Vanessa Moore, 43, of Lot 91 Murphy Street, Good Intent, West Coast Demerara, pleaded not

Eyew tness Missing in action…

…the Code of Conduct

If it’s one thing the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) was lambasted for by the A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) when in Opposition was their alleged “unprofessional” conduct in the performance of their governmental office. With the Muckraker embellishing and even inventing lapses of the PPP governmental apparatus, it might’ve cost the PPP the Government.

Now if you cuss out your opponents for indiscretions, then you’d better come good. So with beatific countenances and simpering smiles, APNU/AFC promised in their manifesto a “Code of Conduct” that’d guarantee they tread the straight and narrow should the people give them a crack at Government. The Code was one of the 21 promises they’d accomplish within 100 days!!

Well, the people did slip APNU/AFC into office. But it’s been six months down the line – and NO Code of Conduct!! How’re folks to judge whether these self-proclaimed paragons of virtue are following their own rules. Another promise bites the dust! Two months ago, pressed to explain what happened to the Code, Trotman – who’d just asked the Guyanese people to “trust the Government” on their 50 per cent raise – said that he was “circulating” a draft Code of Conduct for comments. He explained – as a halo floated over his head – the “Code of Conduct for Ministers and Government Officials” (CCMGO) he was sending around to “stakeholders” was SOOOO thorough, wings would soon sprout from the backs of the said officials. The CCMGO, Trotman explained, was built around 10 principles: duty, honour, integrity, dignity, loyalty, accountability, objectivity, diligence, transparency, and responsibility.

guilty to the charge which read that on Tuesday, November 3 at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), East Bank Demerara, she was found in possession of 2.94 kilograms of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.

According to the particulars of the charge presented by Police Prosecutor, Corporal Bharrat Mangru, the woman frequently travels to London and when there she resides at 78 McDonald Hills. The Prosecutor related that on the day in question, the defendant who is a Guyanese citizen was an outgoing passenger headed to Port of Spain, Trinidad as an in transit passenger, with a connecting flight destined for London. The Prosecutor revealed that a routine search was carried out on her luggage by ranks of the Police Narcotics Unit. During the said search, two bottles of rum were found, one being 12-year-old rum and the other a 15-year-old Eldorado rum.

Tests to the rum resulted in the discovery of the bottles containing the illicit substance. Under caution, the woman allegedly told the ranks that her boyfriend gave her the rum to take overseas.

Prosecutor Mangru objected to bail on the ground that special reasons must be given to the court in order for bail to be granted, and in this case, this requisite was not met. The Magistrate remanded the woman to prison and the matter was adjourned to November 11.

Now if this wasn’t a return of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table at Camelot, what was? So even though the Government was three months late at that time, folks gave them the benefit of the doubt. Some supporters might’ve even held their breath! And woe to them because Halloween’s over; Thanksgiving is nigh upon us – and still NO Code of Conduct! What happened? Pressed by reporters, Trotman conceded sheepishly that his Government hadn’t even started the promised public consultations! Trust them!!

Meantime, the entire Government has abandoned its DUTY to rice farmers to find markets; shown no HONOUR in rescinding their obscene pay raises; degutted INTEGRITY when appointing REO’s; shown no DIGNITY in ostentatious revelry while the economy crashes; abandoned LOYALTY to their Public Workers’ supporters and jettisoned ACCOUNTABILITY for openended audits.

No OBJECTIVITY was shown in firing 1972 Amerindian workers, no DILIGENCE in setting up trade desks in the foreign service; absolutely no TRANSPARENCY in the big bash splurge spending and finally, an abdication of RESPONSIBILITY of the crashing economy.

But Guyanese should still “trust” them… they’re all honourable men (and women), no?

…auditors of the State organs

Your Eyewitness’ wondering what happened to all those audits the Government launched like gang busters when they took office in May. The PPP/Civic Government, APNU/ AFC screamed, were “siphoning off” money through various schemes and scams that were draining the treasury dry. Once the audits located how and where the siphoning was taking place, the savings alone would massively increase investment –not to mention paying “significant” increases to public workers, who’d placed their “X’s” on the line for them.

So we heard about those crack auditors, Lalloo Ram and Ghoolsarran – being hired to ferret out the pilferers. But here we are, six months down the line – and the only “siphoning off” we had reported didn’t even come out of any audit. But because one PPP functionary spilled the beans!

The Minister in charge of audits has since told us to “trust” the Government on the audits. They were a) just “stock taking exercises”, b) just to satisfy donors and finally c) were “confidential”!

And here we thought governance was public business.

…democracy

When in Opposition, APNU/AFC convinced us of the importance of Parliament to the maintenance of democracy. And today, they can just postpone sittings because Nagamootoo must keep up his frequent flyers miles?

O tempora! O mores!!

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

saturday, november 7, 2015 |

TSC concerned about delay of 2015 promotions – urges GTU to withdraw injunction

With an injunction order filed against them by the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) to halt 2015 teachers’ promotions, the Teaching Services Commission (TSC) remains deeply concerned about the negative impact and repercussions these delays are having on students and teachers preparing for the various examinations; and the overall delivery of quality education.

In July, Chief Justice (Ag) Ian Chang granted an Order preventing the TSC from issuing and publishing promotions for 2015.

GTU General Secretary (GS) Coretta Mc Donald contended procedures undertaken to grant promotions are “unfair” and “biased”.

However, the TSC maintains that all its promotions are above-board.

According to a release issued by the Commission, for the school year 20152016, it has stringently followed set criteria and principles to process between four to five thousand applications. This exercise was done by all the Commissioners, representatives from the Central Ministry, and a GTU representative who is also a Commissioner.

It further stated that the Promotion Application Form used has one section for the applicant’s particulars and another section captioned “For Official Use” for the comments of the Headteacher, District Education Officer, Regional Education Officer, and the respective level Assistant Chief Education Officer. Applicants are scored based on their experience, qual-

ifications, and appraisal grades.

However, in determining their suitability, the comments of the Headteacher, District Education Officer, Regional Education Officer, and Assistant Chief Education Officer are also taken into account. They provide more insightful details in relation to the applicant’s performance. Their recommendations are therefore considered vital.

The process adopted for the application for the year 2015 is the exact process that has been applied by the Commission for many years, TSC highlighted.

During the Senior Promotion Exercise, a GTU nominee is always present and in this particular year 2015, the GTU Nominee who sat made no objection, the Commission explained.

Furthermore, upon completion of the exercise, the preliminary list of promotions was sent to all Regions and posted on the TSC website. Applicants were given two weeks to “Appeal” the decisions listed.

Applicants did so and all appeals were thoroughly dealt with by the

Commission. In this regard the Teaching Service Commission requested an additional list of teachers with specific grievances but the union refused to provide such list and demanded full re-examination of all the applications - which the Commission noted is basically pointless.

“The Teaching Service Commission views the Union’s demands for a review of all applications as an unnecessary task which seeks to questions the integrity and autonomy of a constitutional body; sworn to the impartial discharge of its mandate. In our last meeting with the GTU hosted at the Teaching Service Commission on the 29th October 2015, The Commission reiterated that Promotion 2015 be concluded as is and that any changes with the criteria for future Promotion exercises be agreed between the Teaching Service Commission and the Ministry of Education. The GTU rejected this Compromise,” the statement read.

On the other hand, the GTU had explained during previous interviews that the Union decided to file the injunction because of issues that make it unfair for teachers to elevate. She pointed out that in the instance where a REO does not recommend a promotion; then it will not happen however, no explanation would be given as to why the REO did not recommend a particular teacher for promotion. This, she argued, posed several conflicts as there could be many “unfair” reasons as to why that REO would

not recommend a particular teacher.

In another instance, she highlighted that a teacher may apply for a job having a Degree in Science but vacancy exists in Social Studies - which is the teacher’s second subject or the teacher may have been working in that field for several years but would still not be able to get a promotion due to that fact that s/he does not have a degree in Social Studies. Mc Donald contended that this is also unjust.

For these reasons, among others, the GTU filed the injunction order for the promotions to be halted until the “flawed” process is corrected.

Meanwhile, the court hearing on this matter is slated for today before Chief Justice (Ag) Ian Chang.

Minibus conductor on carnal knowledge charge gets 20 years in jail

Aminibus conduc-

tor who raped his friend’s 11-year-old sister in 2007 was on Friday sentenced to 20 years in prison by Judge Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

Previously, the jury had unanimously found the man guilty of carnal knowledge at the High Court. Anthony Braithwaite, called “Poke Toe”, 27, of Lot 29 Friendship, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was convicted of having carnal knowledge of the 11-yearold on July 26, 2007.

The case was presided over by Judge SewnarineBeharry, while the State was represented by Attorneys Stacy Goodings, Michael Shahoud and Siand Dhurjon. Braithwaite was represented by Attorney Raymond Ali.

According to the particulars of the charge, the defendant was 19 years old at the time of the incident. The court heard that on the day in question, the victim was at a neighbour’s residence in Buxton, ECD when she went to use the washroom.

She heard a knock on the door and opened it, expecting her sister, whom she had asked to bring her toilet paper, but instead it was Braithwaite. The court heard that Braithwaite then

entered the toilet and raped the child. Subsequent to the incident, the child told her family and the conductor was arrested and charged.

The Preliminary Inquiry into the matter was completed in 2010 and the defendant was committed to stand trial in the High Court by Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus. During the trial, the court heard the testimonies of the victim, who is now 19 years old; her mother; neighbours; and several Police Officers. The victim is emotionally scarred by the incident, and showed signs of this during her testimony. She testified that she had known the defendant three years prior to the incident as he was a friend of her older brother and would visit their home regularly.

The guilty verdict was handed down and the Judge adjourned the matter to consider the mitigation factors. The mitigation was in the defendant’s favour as the Judge showed leniency after considering that the defendant has two children and was on remand for over 10 months. She delivered the sentence after telling the defendant that he had violated the position of trust that he was given.

Gafoors donates $2M forlift simulator to Government Technical Institute

The Government Technical Institute (GTI) was on Friday presented with a forklift simulator valued at US$10,000 by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Gafoors, Sattaur Gafoor to contribute to the opening of the Norman McLean Simulator Room.

At the simple handing-over ceremony at the Institute, GTI’s Principal Carl Benn expressed heartfelt gratitude to Gafoors, vowing the equipment will be used in the improvement of the industrial workforce being trained at the Institution.

“The Administration and the Board of Government of GTI are privileged to have the Private Sector playing a significant role in the facilitation of training via the donation of the forklift simulator,” he stated.

He assured Gafoor that the equipment would be fully utilized and taken care of so as to improve the quality of forklift operators being sent into the field: “I need to emphasise that this forklift is in high demand with the expansion in the mining industry,”

Benn revealed that the Institution has been benefiting from a number of donations from the private sector. He explained that Banks DIH Ltd also donated a forklift, Courts a 50-

inch flatscrren television, Digital Technology a smartboard and Rubis Gas a number of safety equipment and tools.

Gafoor reiterated his support to the education of future industrial workers. He explained that his support was solicited by Norman McLean, the former Chairman of the Board of Directors, after he paid the Institute a visit.

“I was particularly surprised by the number of students I saw in the compound and the variety of courses that are being offered,” he related.

He revealed that after considering the ways he

could contribute to the development of the Institute, he settled with his contribution after McLean approached him on the issue.

He further explained that his company spends large sums of money annually for the maintenance and operation of forklifts, and as such he is in high hopes the students would use the simulator to become proficient at using the equipment. In doing so, he added, they would be contributing to the industry in the long run.

He encouraged the students to dedicate themselves to their studies as they will play a vital role in the labour force.

New Market Street House search…

Police uncover over 60 AK-47 ammunition in pit latrine

– one in custody

Dozens of 7.62x39 ammunition, commonly known as AK-47 bullets, were on Friday afternoon discovered in several boxes in a pit latrine at New Market Street, Georgetown.

At the time of the discovery, the occupant of the house who was at home was arrested and is assisting Police with their investigations.

Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum when contacted on Friday afternoon confirmed that 60 rounds of the ammunition were found in the pit. He noted that they were neatly packed in boxes. Blanhum added that based on information received, several Police ranks went to the location at about 15:00h and conducted a search on the house but came up empty handed.

Further, he stated that

the Police ranks conducted search in the yard and found nothing as well, until they approached the latrine and observed several boxes in the pit; thus prompting them to investigation. As they retrieved the boxes and opened them, the ammunition was discovered.

The male occupant of the home was questioned, cautioned and taken into custody. This discovery comes weeks after the gun amnesty period concluded. The amnesty period was intended for persons in possession of illegal guns and ammunition to surrender same to the Police. During the period, over 186 guns were handed in, along with over 1800 ammunition of various calibres.

However, none of the guns handed in were forensically linked to any major crime; thus it was reported that the amnesty programme was a failure.

Mexico rice deal too costly...

Sometime in July this year, Venezuela had issued a directive for Guyana to stop all paddy and rice shipments to the Spanish-speaking country with immediate effect. This took place months before the PetroCaribe agreement/contract was scheduled to come to an end.

It was noted that the relationship between Guyana and Venezuela became extremely tense and subsequently deteriorated after the APNU/AFC Government made a decision not to allow the Venezuelan state-owned airline Conviasa Airlines, to land in Guyana over the non-

payment of its bond.

As time progressed, the two countries drifted from the cordial relations they were sharing for a number of years to the bilateral talks breaking down. Venezuela has officially severed ties with Guyana in relation to rice importation, causing the industry in Guyana to suffer even more since the deal with that country was by far the most profitable and rewarding.

Meanwhile, according to the US Department of Agriculture Foreign Agriculture Service Export Sales Report for October 2015, the US rice exporters

have shipped 298,721 tonnes of rice to Venezuela.

During this time frame, Guyanese rice farmers were faced with major difficulties since Venezuela no longer accepted shipments of rice as was arranged in the PetroCaribe deal.

Then in October, the Spanish-speaking nation inked another PetroCaribe deal with Suriname to see the exchange for fuel and rice at “favourable” prices, thereby knocking Guyana out of the agreement it had with Venezuela for a number of years. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy.com)

President’s College graduation...

Guyana needs “second independence” to free citizens from dependency, discrimination, domination – President Granger

In his remarks to the 2015 graduating class of President’s College on Thursday, President David Granger shared the need for a second independence of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, to free citizens from dependency, discrimination, domination and abuse of their rights and freedoms.

“If you want to preserve your independence, you have to be eternally vigilant. Similarly, if you want to protect your careers, your reputation, your future; you have to be continuously educated and re-educated,” the President stated in his charge to the students.

“This College, by celebrating this rite of graduation of young adults, reaffirms the faith that the founders of this nation… placed on the value of education,” the Head of State said.

Referencing the advancing communication and technological age, President Granger called for stronger focus to be placed on Science and Technology to meet the development needs of Guyana, as well as to ensure that the country keeps up with the rest of the world. He said, “Many small countries like ours, with highly educated societies, have

been successful in providing a higher quality of life for their citizens.”

In this light, the Head of State iterated the need for a new approach to public education if Guyana is to succeed and compete in this highly technological world. This new approach, he said, must emphasise Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, (STEM). “Guyana cannot progress in this modern world without mastering modern communication technology. Global problems; such as combating the adverse effects of climate change and finding cures for epidemic diseases, cancers or viruses, all demand scientific solutions and we have to produce scientists who can

Budhan Housing

solve these problems.”

Even as he reflected on Guyana’s Independence in 1966, President Granger said that declaration merely replaced the physical images and removed the legal symbols of foreign dependency. That Independence movement, he noted, was incomplete. “It left many citizens in the new State languishing in the shadow of dependency, with its poverty, prejudices and political partisanship. There must be change,” the President said.

The graduating class was also reminded that independence and education are not free. Both, the President said, must be persistently sought after and jealously guarded.

While speaking on the new

approach, President Granger said President’s College, like other colleges in Guyana, will be assured that it will remain an institution of excellence. He stressed that no college student anywhere in Guyana should ever again be forced to fetch water to wash, or to fetch wood to cook.

“Wells should never be allowed to run dry. Classrooms and dormitories should not suffer power outages. Play fields must be used for sport, not as cow pastures. Computer and Science laboratories and technical workshops must not become junkyards. Libraries must not become museums,” the President lamented. These statements were made in light of deteriorating conditions at

Scheme in Berbice to receive water for the first time

– proposal by GWI Chief Executive receives positive response from residents

Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Dr Richard Van WestCharles at a community meeting organized by residents of Budhan Housing Scheme, New Amsterdam, East Berbice, on Thursday outlined a programme that will see residents receiving water for the first time since the housing development came into existence for over 10 years.

In a release from GWI, Dr WestCharles in the presence of Region 6 Regional Chairman David Armogan, developers of the scheme and GWI Officials, stated that he was concerned about the lack of water within the community, especially with the large amount of families with young children.

“Our mandate is to ensure that every

citizen of this country has access to safe water,” stated the GWI Chief, “therefore GWI is proposing that every resident sign a contract with the company to pay for their water service connections over an eight-month period. We understand the financial strain of the families living in the scheme so we will allow a long period for residents to pay for their service in small, affordable amounts”.

The Chief Executive explained further that since it is a private housing scheme, residents will be charged for the service connection but will be afforded the convenience of paying in small instalments.

The proposal was met with applause from the residents and Regional Chairman Armogan commended Dr

West-Charles on his initiative since prior attempts were made to provide the scheme with water service but with no success.

Everyone will be asked to sign a contract, available at the GWI location at Chesney, New Amsterdam: “If every resident signs up by the end of November, I will personally make every effort to ensure that residents of Budhan Scheme begin receiving water by Christmas”.

This announcement also received applause as the GWI Chief further urged attendees of the meeting to encourage other residents to sign up for water service connections so that the company can commence installing pipe-lines.

All new service connections will be metered.

the College over the past decade.

Meanwhile, this year’s valedictorian, Alicia Hartman, speaking on behalf of the graduating class, spoke of how honoured she and her fellow students are to have been a part of such a noble learning institution. She said it was at this institution, where she was challenged to appreciate diversity and was instilled with the values of humility and service to all.

“After the past seven years, I could firmly state that this institution is exceptional and the experience I gained here is incomparable with that of any other,” Hartman said. She added that President’s College presented her and other graduates with alternative areas of inquiry, and helped them appreciate the value of education through a unique perspective.

More importantly, Hartman said that it was during her five years at the College that she began to recognise the truth in the quote “be more concerned with your character than your reputation”, since one’s character is what a person really is, while reputation is merely what others think of you.

Also on the occasion, Lumumba Angoy, Treasurer of the President’s College Alumni Incorporated, while delivering the charge to the students, reminded them that their years at the institution was impacted by the vision of founder and former President Linden Forbes

Sampson Burnham, who envisioned that the school would mould the minds of the nation’s leaders.

“You must understand that the high price of your education has created in you high value and whenever a high price precedes high value, high returns are expected,” Angoy said.

This year, 30 students graduated, having successfully completed the Caribbean Advance Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and 92 graduated having completed the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC). The school secured 100 per cent passes at CAPE in Agricultural Science, Art and Design, Biology, Entrepreneurship, Food and Nutrition, Geography and Environmental Science.

This year’s top CSEC performers are Nurendra Gopaul who secured 10 Grade Ones; Premeshwar Ramnath who also secured 10 Grade Ones; and Venise David, who secured eight Grade Ones and three Grade Twos. Gopaul and Ramnath shared the Best Graduating students’ prize.

Notably, over the last three years, the school’s matriculation rate has significantly improved, as in 2013 the rate stood at 50.7 per cent; in 2014 it was 77.9 per cent; and in 2015, it rose to 82.11 per cent. These figures reflect the number of students who gained five passes and more, inclusive of Mathematics and English at CSEC.

Govt hopeful economy will rebound from downward spiral

While accepting that the economy is still a bit sluggish, Government is still hoping to see major improvements by the end of the year. This promise was made by Finance Minister Winston Jordan and was echoed by Minister of Governance and Patrimony Raphael Trotman on Thursday.

Last month, the Finance Ministry announced that the country’s economy had seen a 2.5 per cent dip during the first six months of 2015. Blaming the change in Government and the lead up to the General and Regional Elections as major contributors, the Finance Minister committed to seeing a positive change before the end of 2015.

Minister Trotman on Thursday told journalists that efforts are “afoot” to stimulate the economy. According to him, Government is taking a proactive stance in injecting finances into the economy.

According to the MidYear Report released by the Finance Ministry, the country’s economy declined some 2.5 per cent in the first half

of this year when compared to the same period in 2014.

The report outlined that initially, Guyana’s half year growth was estimated to be at 0.9 per cent. However, with the passage of time and the benefit of actual first half performance in a number of sectors, the country’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) recorded a growth of 0.7 per cent in the first half of 2015, with non-sugar GDP recording a growth rate of 0.8 per cent.

It detailed the factors contributing to Guyana’s low economic performance during this period as the late

presentation and passing of this year’s National Budget, which was as a result of the 10th Parliament being prorogued in November 2014 and its subsequent dissolution in February 2015, followed by the holding of the General and Regional Election in May.

The report further detailed that the delay in the budget resulted in many of the Government agencies being unable to carry out their planned programmes for the year. “Many new projects were held in abeyance while only a few projects which were ‘rolled over’ from the previous year attracted funding.

At the same time, the atmosphere of uncertainty and tensions surrounding the holding of general elections, led to investors postponing decisions in many cases,” the Mid-Year Report detailed.

Nevertheless, the Finance Ministry pointed out that with the passage of the budget, economic growth in the country is expected to surge during the second half of 2015. Moreover, given the measures outlined in

Budget 2015, it is projected that there will be a 3.4 per cent economic growth in the second half of the year.

Outlook remains positive

However, the report stated that the though the economy’s first half performance was slower than desired, this was not unexpected given the internal affairs of the country during the first six months.

Going forward, the Ministry said the outlook for the second half of the year remains positive.

According to Jordan,

there are several contributing factors to this alleged slowdown, both locally and internationally.

“Things appear to be picking up based on some amount of statistical evidence and some of anecdotal evidence. Anecdotal in the sense that in speaking to the average man in the street, the taxi driver and so on, they have been telling me that things are picking up, they are not saying business is good but, they are saying things better than a month or two before,” he said.

Republic Bank concludes 6th annual Commercial Customer Business Programme

Republic Bank on Wednesday evening concluded its sixth annual Commercial Customer Business Programme at a simple closing ceremony at its New Market Street location.

The Programme was a joint initiative between the bank and the Arthur Lok Jack Graduate School of Business, University of West Indies which saw 12 persons gaining extensive knowledge in the areas of accounting, financing and marketing.

SME Officer of Corporal and Commercial Credit Rosita Persaud explained that the Programme, first introduced in Guyana in 2010, began with a vision for the Republic Bank Group which was to provide the necessary guidance and support to entrepreneurs so as to utilise and develop their full potential: “The Republic Bank Group recognized the value of the Small and Medium Enterprise sector to the Caribbean economies and in acknowledgement and support of the critical role they play in developing and growing these economies, an

exclusive partnership was created between the Republic Bank Group of Trinidad and the Arthur Lok Jack Graduate School of Business, University of West Indies, to bring about the desired change. And so began the first forum in 2007 at our parent bank, Republic Bank Limited, Trinidad and Tobago.”

She revealed that this year’s Programme has brought the total number of Guyanese participants of the Programme up to ninety-five. She related that the participants were given an apt opportunity at expanding their skillsbase as well as establishing lasting and productive business networks among each legion.

She also explained that in the past, the Programme has resulted in the improvement of the participants’ businesses and as such, the bank remains confident that it will be just as beneficial for the current batch.

General Manager of Republic Bank, Guyana Parbatie Khan shared Persaud’s sentiments as she posited that one of the bank’s key areas of focus is the development of its

commercial customers, as well as empowering existing and potential Small and Medium Enterprises.

“One of our key areas of focus is on women entrepreneurs through our ‘Venture Out for Women Programme’, in collaboration with Empretec,” Khan stated, adding that the Programme is aimed at providing entrepreneurial training for women and thus far in excess of 600 have benefitted.

She further related that the bank has undergone numerous initiatives in order to benefit its customers such as offer Loan Guarantee Facilities ,as well as putting measures in place to ensure customers are well equipped with knowledge to assist in establishing and managing their businesses.

She commended the participants of the Programme and imposed on them the responsibility of applying all they have learnt to management of their businesses.

She vowed the bank will be continuing such ventures to benefit their customers and stakeholders, and also positively impact Guyana’s economy.

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Fallen Heroes Foundation launched

– Ramjattan announces Police insurance plans

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Thursday afternoon held the launching of the “Fallen Heroes Foundation” which is aimed at providing assistance for the welfare of the children of GPF officers who have died in the line of duty. The Foundation was established to undertake ventures aimed at raising funds so as to assist in the education and basic welfare of the families of officers who die in the line of duty.

At the simple ceremony, in the presence of a number of GPF officers, Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud explained that the initiative was formulated after he took into consideration the results of the death of an officer on his or her family. “The event of us

paying the ultimate price to protect the community we serve is a likelihood. What happens currently when

a member of the Force is killed in the line of duty is the Government pays some money to the family and

Declare suicide a national priority

Following the recent deaths of the young Indo-Guyanese couple whose bodies were discovered in the vicinity of the Kingston Seawall late Monday afternoon, and well-known activist Zenita Nicholson, the Indian Action (formerly Arrival) Committee (IAC), is repeating its calls for suicide to be declared a national priority.

The committee said these deaths once again highlight the tragic consequences of this social scourge that continues to plague our society.

IAC reflected on the death of activist Nicholson, bringing into focus that even those who appear strong and even provide guidance, are also vulnerable.

This underlines the IAC’s position on suicide, that while it is more prevalent in Indo-Guyanese communities, it is not confined therein.

The IAC proclaimed that these deaths further underpin and fortify their repeated calls for suicide to be declared a national priority. “The IAC had called on the immediate past People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Administration to heed the call and make the declaration. It made a sim-

– IAC

ilar call on the current A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) government to see merit in the request” the committee declared in a release.

The group said while they are pleased the request has been positively received by this government and there are ongoing engage-

ments for its eventual unfolding; the organization believes the declaration must have the full support of all stakeholders, including the Opposition.

The IAC is firm in its belief that a national declaration would bring a much needed sense of priority which in turn would necessitate the provision of the human, technical and financial resources that would be needed to educate and mitigate the circumstances that would propel people to end their lives.

“The continual and seemingly growing impact of suicide affects families, communities and the country as a whole. Guyana can ill afford to have such loses in its human resources. It is in this context that IAC urge for a swift declaration and calls on civil society to lend support”.

presents the Foundation’s treasurer with his contribution then the Police Force takes care of the funeral expenses. The society shows their condolences... they attend these funerals in great numbers and for most of us, life goes on. However, when we look back at what happens after, within these families... they are all horror stories. They are horror stories that are filled with displacement of siblings, hunger, and mental breakdown,” he stated.

Further, the IAC reiterated it call on all social and religious organizations to intensify their efforts to provide guidance and counselling where necessary to aid it the mitigation of this social ill.

The IAC stands ready to work with the Administration and civil society through meaningful engagements in helping to derive useful mechanisms with regard to suicide.

The IAC also offered encouragement for those who may be, for whatever reason, contemplating or would have already, unfortunately, developed suicidal tendencies, to seek assistance, despite the challenges, through family, places of worship, Non-Governmental

Organisations (NGOs), and others that provide related services or anyone or place of choice.

“The IAC takes this opportunity to extend its deepest condolences to the families and friends of Kavita Akloo and Ramesh Beharry, the young couple who apparently committed suicide last Monday at the Kingston Seawall and activist Zenita Nicholson.

At the simple launching ceremony, Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence underscored the importance of ensuring that law enforcement officers and their families are protected. This, she stated, would enable them to perform even better, given the confidence that the welfare of their families will be taken care of in the event of their death.

“I am heartened today to know that after the many years of talking about having such an organisation, that today it is a reality; and what we need to do is take one more step forward and that is to operationalise it,” Minister Lawrence stated.

“Family for life”

The Minister added that there is a large number of young officers that need to be encouraged and ensured of their position when joining the Force, and as such, “we have to ensure that we say to them that when you join this family…you join this family for life”, and that is what the Foundation would be doing.

The Police Commissioner explained that with the launching of the Foundation, the Force would be seeking to tackle these circumstances.

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, in an address to the gathering also highlighted the importance the Foundation holds in the lives of law enforce-

ment officers. “This initiative is another that will benefit further the fraternity and solidarity in this Police Force,” he stated.

Ramjattan related that the aims of the organisation, which are to ensure the welfare, and more importantly the education of the children of the fallen heroes, would make the lives of these beneficiaries much easier. He added that this initiative is not the only one geared at addressing the needs and concerns of the Force. The Minister announced that his Ministry would be working closely with the Police Commissioner to initiate an insurance scheme for Police Officers. “He has indicated another very big one, and that is to have a group insurance of Policemen where they can contribute a minimum of $100 that will take care of them, in a group insurance format, should they become either disabled or expire [deceased] in the line of duty,” Ramjattan revealed. Both Ministers personally pledged $100,000 to the Foundation, while Minister Lawrence pledged $500,000 on the behalf of her Ministry. A number of private organisations, including Assuria Insurance, also contributed to the Foundation.

APNU/AFC abusing office, lost sight of promises to supporters

he APNU/AFC

TGovernment has come under heavy criticism from the United Republican Party (URP) leader Vishnu Bandhu who, in a release to the media, has slammed the coalition Government for what he has dubbed abuse of power.

According to Bandhu, the coalition Government has lost sight of all the promises made on the campaign trail, and is now flagrantly practicing the ills that they had accused the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) of doing.

The URP leader stated that the current Administration has been handed control of the Government and is abusing the power given to them.

“The APNU-AFC government has lost sight of its pledges to resolve a litany of evils it identified during the elections campaign,” Bandhu stated, adding that, “the new rulers have become absorbed in all the very things that they condemned while in opposition.”

This he stated is unacceptable, yet the Government officials seem to believe it is their right, or a fringe benefit to them, their friends and supporters. Bandhu also lashed out at the recent move by Government to grant themselves a 50% salary increase while granting public servants a meager five per cent:

“The Government took a 50% in their salary while they were already enjoying a variety of perks such as chauffeurs and free gas, while telling the nation that the treasury is empty. Pensioners were told to live on $15,000 while the Ministers cannot live on

$750,000. Sugar workers cannot even get an increase in wages and have to go on strike while public servants received a paltry increase.”

He also condemned Government for mishandling the nation’s interest, especially in foreign relations with Venezuela which has put our country’s economic activity through much difficulty: “The rice industry is in a free fall with the rice price reeling from the loss of the critical Venezuelan market.

Mishandling of Venezuelan flights and relations has resulted in Suriname selling rice to Venezuela on favourable terms that Guyana was enjoying for years.”

Bandhu on that note issued a call on Government to address concerns of the country and concieve solutions to the issues plaguing Guyana, rather than focusing on increasing their personal benefits and earnings.

Robbery suspect wanted for Linden businesswoman’s murder apprehended

One of the three bandits apprehended at De Hoop, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, following a robbery committed on a Mahaicony business, is wanted in connection with the murder of Shevon Gordon; a businesswoman who was gunned down during a robbery at Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) in April.

Crime Chief, Wendell Blanhum told Guyana Times that initially the man had submitted an incorrect name to the Police but subsequently gave his correct name. Upon doing so, the Police searched its data base and found he was wanted for the murder of the businesswoman.

It was reported that on the night of the shooting incident, Gordon and her husband had just returned home and were in the process of entering their premises while in their vehicle, when they were confronted by the two armed men.

The men demanded a bag with cash that Gordon had in her possession but she resisted and was shot about her body. The men then took the bag and

fled the scene on foot.

The woman’s husband and son pursued the bandits and her son managed to catch up with the men and a scuffle ensued. During the altercation, the young man was shot to his left thigh. The men then made good their escape with the money. Shevon Gordon and her son were taken to the Mackenzie Hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

However, Crime Chief stated that the man might be involved in other robberies and will be placed on an identification parade shortly.

Meanwhile, giving an account of what transpired on Wednesday, the businesswoman who was attacked in the Mahaicony robbery, Lakranie Singh, told Guyana Times that on the day in question the four men passed her sitting outside of the business place.

“Three of them had on black and from the time they pass me I see they put they hands into their pockets and pull out white gloves and put it on their hands.” Singh explained that the sales clerk was held at gunpoint and taken into the super-

market and ordered to lie on the floor.

“They then went to the cashier and tell he that they want the money and everything that he had. They take everything, phone, money, phone card, Brazilian jewellery… When they finish the one at the side was asking me who is the boss and I said I don’t know where the boss was and he start to hit me in my face and we had a scuffle because he did not have a gun so I hit him back.”

Singh noted that two of the three men were carrying firearms and they took what they needed from the supermarket, along with the keys to the upper flat which was under the cashier’s counter. She further related that the men spent more than an hour ransacking the house searching for cash and jewellery.

As they were leaving, one of the men removed the DVR Player containing the Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) footage. Nevertheless, one of the men remained in the upper flat of the house and it was only after an alarm was raised that he panicked and escaped through

a back door. The men used the family’s Toyota car to flee but were soon perused by a member of the family who was on his was home and saw his car speeding down the road. Other residents were also in hot pursuit, resulting in the driver of the getaway car losing control of the vehicle, turning it turtle in the backlands of Fairfield Village. The bandits escaped on foot.

Member of the Community Policing Group were able to capture one of the men before night fall and handed him over to the Police, while the other two were spotted as they attempted to get on to the public road. They were chased but went into hiding. On the following day, the search continued during which a wet belt and other pieces of evidence were found.

As the search intensified, one of the men was seen hiding in a clump of bushes and was apprehended. They eventually decided to set the bush on fire, resulting in the third suspect revealing himself as he ran to safety. The Police are still hunting the fourth suspect.

Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan confirmed as new GPF PRO

Superintendent of Police Jairam Ramlakhan has been confirmed as the new Public Relations Officer (GPF) of the Guyana Police Force replacing long serving stalwart Ivelaw Whittaker.

Ramlakhan has been exemplary in services whilst performing duties in almost all of the Divisions in the force. His grassroot perspective has definitely earned him respect from peers, subordinates and communities at large.

Superintendent Ramlakhan has moved

through the ranks as the head of portfolios too numerous to mention with key posts such as the prestigious Public Relations and Press Officer and Traffic Chief of the Guyana Police Force.

Having enlisted in the Police Force 29 years ago, he continues to be dedicated which was highlighted when he won the Presidents Gold Medal Essay Award in 2009, and he continues to give quality service to his nation.

He is well known as someone who gets to the bottom of issues when they are reported to him, and spares no effort in ensuring justice is meted out fairly and deservedly.

Of the numerous facets of police training Superintendent Ramlakhan

Superintendent

Jairam Ramlakhan

is well versed and quite capable of assuming any position or role that may be required of him within the Guyana Police Force.

In the event his overseas training may be called into question, it is known that he has already completed training in Police Administration, International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law and is currently preparing to attend a course on Communicating Justice in Washington. It is as a result of these key courses among others that would have really moulded him into the person he is today - pleasant and approachable by all. The attributes he has developed and became acclimated to are what contributes to him being an outstanding leader with the well wishes of his comrades and family all intending to see him continue climbing the ladder of success.

ExxonMobil Investigated for Possible Climate Change Lies by New York Attorney General

An Exxon Mobil refinery in Los Angeles, California, USA. The New York Attorney General is investigating the oil and gas company

The New York Attorney General has begun an investigation of ExxonMobil to determine whether the company lied to the public about the risks of climate change or to investors about how such risks might hurt the oil business.

According to people with knowledge of the investigation, Attorney General Eric T Schneiderman issued a subpoena on Wednesday evening to ExxonMobil, demanding extensive financial records, emails and other documents.

The investigation focuses on whether statements the company made to investors about climate risks as recently as this year were consistent with the company’s own longrunning scientific research.

The people said the inquiry would include a period of at least a decade during which Exxon Mobil funded outside groups that sought to undermine climate science, even as its in-house scientists were outlining the potential consequences — and uncertainties — to company executives.

Kenneth P Cohen, Vice President for public af-

fairs at ExxonMobil, said on Thursday that the company had received the subpoena and was still deciding how to respond.

“We unequivocally reject the allegations that Exxon Mobil has suppressed climate change research,” Cohen said, adding that the company had funded mainstream climate science since the 1970s, had published dozens of scientific papers on the topic and had disclosed climate risks to investors.

Schneiderman’s decision to scrutinise the fossil fuel companies may well open a new legal front in the climate change battle.

The people with knowledge of the New York case also said on Thursday that, in a separate inquiry, Peabody Energy, the nation’s largest coal producer, had been under investigation by the attorney general for two years over whether it properly disclosed financial risks related to climate change. That investigation was not previously reported, and has not resulted in any charges or other legal action against Peabody. (Excerpt from The New York Times)

Expressions of Interest invited for consultancy services for new Demerara River Bridge

The Administration, in advancing plans to have a better infrastructural network, which will aid the timely transport of goods and services, recently advertised for Expressions of Interest, for the provision of consultancy services, for a feasibility study and design for a new Demerara River Bridge. According to the advertisement, the project framework for the new bridge will take into account the following proposed locations - a position close to the existing bridge, Houston, East Bank Demerara to Versailles, West Bank Demerara, or New Hope East Bank Demerara to Laurentia, Catherina, West Bank Demerara.

Additionally, the bridge should have a navigation-

al clearance of 100 meters wide with navigational aids, an air draft of 50 meters of vertical clearance, adequate marine collision protection at navigating channels, and an estimated length of 2,250 meters.

This opening for the Expressions of Interest forms part of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure’s plan to execute an in-depth study to incorporate preliminary designs of proposed bridge structures, approach roads, impact and desirable considerations which were not covered in a pre-feasibility study that was conducted in 2013.

Expressions of Interest are to be delivered to The Chairman, National Procurement and Tender Administration Board by Tuesday, December 1, 2015.

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Wage negotiations… Sugar workers prepare for countrywide strike on Sunday

– GuySuCo given “unofficial” notice

BY KRISTEN MACKLINGAM

The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has unofficially been notified there will most likely be another country-wide strike by sugar workers commencing Sunday.

It is expected that after the Guyana Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) General Council meeting concludes today the decision would be made to have all workers unionized under GAWU to go on strike from tomorrow (Sunday).

Presently, thousands of workers across the sugar belt are awaiting official word from GAWU as to whether or not they should down tools once again and take strike action against the sugar corporation for failing to meet with the Union to discuss wage/salary pay hikes for this year.

GAWU’s President Komal Chand told Guyana Times on Friday evening that such a decision has not yet been made by his Union as its members will be meeting at the level of General Council today to discuss and deliberate on GuySuCo not commencing negotiations for wage/salary increases for 2015.

It is during this meeting the Union will make a decision as to its next course of action; whether or not a strike will take place, when it will begin and how long the strike action will last, if the Council agrees this course of action will be pursued.

As it relates to giving a 72-hour notice to GuySuCo, if the Union will have its workers strike again under the present conditions, Chand maintains that notifying the sugar corporation is not mandatory.

“We haven’t given notice because we argue that we don’t have to give notice… if you haven’t reached a disagreement of something, not reached a deadlock, therefore you don’t have to give notice. We are charging GuySuCo for not respecting the act, the law, the Trade Union Recognition Act, it is not that we have been engaging negotiations over pay increases and we broke down, which would have required us to go to conciliation and then if we broke down there, then we would have to give a notice of intent to strike,” he explained.

Meanwhile, President of Guyana Labour Union Carvil Duncan, told this newspaper on Friday that his Union has not yet made a conscious decision as it relates to strike action and that the reason for this is “simple”.

“Once GAWU and the

National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE) go on strike, there is nothing for my workers to do, because they are at Demerara Sugar Terminal (DST) dealing specifically with the shipment of sugar. So if there is no sugar, there is nothing to ship… GuySuCo would have to pay the workers at the DST for not doing anything,” Duncan stated.

He told Guyana Times the sugar Commission of Inquiry (CoI) that GuySuCo is claiming paves the way forward for the future of the sugar industry has nothing to do with labour relations.

According to the GLU President, the report looks at the entire sugar industry and its future and that regardless of what outcome the report may bring forward workers will still have to be employed.

“You can’t pay some persons, for example the public servants got a five per cent increase, you can’t say that there is nothing for the sugar workers because they are buying from the same shops, buying the same things, and going to the same market places. Therefore their buying power ought to be equal, an increase in salary is a necessity, and what GuySuCo needs to do other than filibustering, the Chairman should say to the Directors that they should propose to give GAWU and the sugar Unions a certain amount, that it would cost so much, and then ask the government if they could finance this proposal so that the industry can move on,” Duncan explained.

Guyana Times was further told GuySuCo should take the position this would be an investment in today for the future of the sugar industry for tomorrow and refrain from making idle threats about sugar workers having a “grim” Christmas this year.

“The workers would even grind on Good Friday, once they are rewarded, they will make the effort. So the grim Christmas threat is a foolish statement com -

ing from the Chairman. He should try to resolve this thing, and not say this is a political strike and not an industrial one. It is an industrial strike because the workers have a genuine problem and if he is skilful enough he would meet with the three Unions at one time, commence negotiations and get from them what their bottom line is; how much they are looking for; what they are prepared to settle with,” he added.

In a recent statement from Office of the Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, the government is pleading with sugar workers to desist from taking any strike actions since this could cripple operations and close down the sugar industry.

However, the administration is maintaining its position that wage/salary dialogue cannot commence at this point since a 10year road map is being devised for the flailing industry and that no more money is available from the State.

As such, the government is urging that all sugar workers and their unions assist in rescuing the industry, by remaining committed to their jobs, and with the upcoming holiday season, to earn as much as possible before the current crop culminates. (kristenm@guyanatimesgy. com)

Finance Minister meets IDB mission

– discusses public health, social protection issues

Finance Minister Winston Jordan on Friday met with the Inter-American Development Bank’s (IDB) Chief of Social Protection and Health Division, Ferdinando Regalia, and a team to discuss support for health and social protection.

During the discussion, Minister Jordan said the Government is seeking to have a more structured approach to the functioning of the National Insurance Scheme and novel and effective ways of assisting the elderly, disadvantaged, disabled and other vulnerable groups.

In discussing the challenges that a project of this nature presents, the Minister told the team they should consider Guyana’s unique cultural context rather than employ a generic Caribbean approach.

He pointed to the Basic Nutrition Sprinkles programme and said while the initiative provides necessary nutrients to pregnant mothers and was timely and laudable, the implementation and project design was poor and this resulted in significant loses.

The IDB’s Regalia told the meeting that the Bank had met with the Ministers of Public Health and Social Protection to discuss ma-

Govt afraid of salary

ternal and mental health and newborn and child welfare, since it has done extensive work in those areas in the Caribbeanparticularly in Jamaica, The Bahamas and Latin America.

He highlighted the key challenges of project implementation as the lack of capacity and coordination of efforts, but added that the Bank can lend support in those areas.

On the issue of the National Insurance Sceme (NIS), Regalia said that the IDB makes provisions for budgetary support through its Labour and Pensions Unit but focuses on contributions. The IDB team will be working on a subsidies scheme.

He added that technical cooperation on a diagnostic proposal and implemen-

tation plan can begin in 2016. And this will ensure that payments are made, that the right kind of targeting is done through the use of the Census and other data and that the beneficiaries are efficiently managed through the use of management information systems.

He cautioned that the success of this, however, was hinged on overcoming the challenges of reaching the neediest in Guyana’s remote communities.

The Health Division Chief added that Guyana could benefit from the mobilisation of resources of between US$300,000 –US$350,000, in 2016 to diagnose problems and propose strategies with the possible outcome being a loan programme, which could come from the 2017/18 IDB-Guyana Country Allocation.

Minister Jordan said that the agenda put forward by Regalia was in keeping with the overall thrust of the Government’s plans to improve the delivery of services associated with mental and maternal health, the elderly and new born and child welfare. He therefore agreed with the IDB that they can partner to implement aspects of the proposed technical assistance.

increases annulment motion

– places overseas travel over parliamentary business – PPP

The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has labelled government’s move to reschedule the November 12 sitting of the National Assembly as “whimsical”, noting that it is a demonstration of the administration’s disregard for the business of the National Assembly.

Government recently announced it was requesting to have the sitting of the National Assembly scheduled for November 12, 2015,

rescheduled to a later date.

The request was made by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo to the Speaker of Parliament Dr Barton Scotland.

According to Nagamootoo, government was seeking a reschedule because of Guyana’s pending attendance of the Summit of South American-Arab Countries (ASPA) which will be held in Saudi Arabia from November 9 to 13.

According to the government, during this peri-

od, several key government functionaries, Members of Parliament and the Clerk of the Assembly will be travelling to attend important conferences and training courses.

The PPP/C however said government has clearly placed their overseas travels above the National Assembly.

“With their one seat majority and their frequent flying is this an indication that few will be the sittings of the National Assembly?

More importantly, the government’s bald faced action tonight cannot camouflage the real reason behind this rescheduling – to avoid the debate on the Opposition’s motion calling for the annulment of the September 25th Order No.16 which gave the Ministers, Members of the National Assembly and Special Offices exorbitant salary increases”, the party said through its Chief Whip Gail Teixeira.

The Party said Government Ministers collecting the increased salaries from as far back as July 1 this year, seem to have developed cold feet to debate and defend their own exorbitant salary increases in the legislature.

“Not surprising, we have just learnt that the Speaker has granted the Government’s request. Unfortunately the Guyanese citizens who have been anxiously awaiting the debate and the response of the government at the November 12 sitting will have to continue to wait for an unspecified sitting”, the PPP/C said.

Region Two teachers receive coaching on table tennis

– Essequibo Table Tennis Association reformed

By INDRAWATTIE NATRAM

Teachers from secondary schools in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) are now better equipped with the necessary knowledge on table tennis coaching after a twoday seminar was held, compliments of the National Sports Commission (NSC). The training concluded on Friday.

The seminar which began on Thursday was held in the auditorium of the Anna Regina Secondary School (ARMS). It was organised by Region Two Sport Organiser Jerome Mahase and executed by level two table tennis coach Linden Johnson from the NSC.

During the two-day seminar, the secondary school teachers were enlightened on the basics of table tennis. They were given coach-

ing manuals and most of the schools have received rackets and balls. The training was specifically done so that table tennis can be a part of the extra co-curriculum activities in schools.

According Johnson, he was very impressed with the participants and mentioned they were fast learners. He urged the teachers to be actively involved in sport and promised a follow up will be done in the near future.

Johnson also reminded participants that sport plays an important role in a child's life, and as such, should be part of the school's programme.

At the end of the twoday seminar, the Essequibo Table Tennis Association was reformed, with new members taking on responsibilities. The new executive body is made up of

President Gary Williams, Vice President Kavendra Persaud, Secretary Samanta Spellen, Treasurer Christine Beharry and committee members Romario Mohabir, Debra Daniels, Aldrin Shepherd, Hemwattie Bhawan, Jonathon Sankar, Lindy France and Nathan Persaud.

They have been charged to promote and foster table tennis in Essequibo. Sporting gear such as rackets, nets and balls along with trophies were donated by Director of Sport Christopher Jones to start open competition.

President Gary Williams pledged his commitment towards the enhancement of sport and table tennis games among schools. Williams said the Executive body will plan future competitions so that young people can be

meaningfully involved and polishing a skill in table tennis.

Teachers who attended said the training was very informative and thanked the NSC for facilitating the venture. Teachers are of the view indeed children need to be actively involved in sports. Competitions will be planned in near future involving various schools. K avendra Persaud from the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) in invited comments said sport plays a major role in schools. He said that before gear and equipment can be distributed, persons must be trained. He believes that the seminar also sensitised all participants in caring for equipment. He thanked the National Sports Commission through the national coach and the sport organiser for the initiative.

Stag 7-a side football competition launched

By AkEEM GREENE

The Stag Beer seven a side football competition for East Bank teams was launched on Friday at the company’s head quarters at Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara.

Speaking at the launch, Ansa McAl Marketing Assistant Darshnie Yusuf revealed that “we have been partnering with the East bank Association for the last 3-4 years. The partnership has been growing from strength to strength. If we know that something will grow and we can build on it, we definitely want to be a part of it”. Yusuf went unto speak about positive responses being received about the ongoing Stag Elite League Football and stressed that the company is committed to the development of football in Guyana. The tournament which will be played on a knock out format will comprise of 14 teams, two teams from each clubs on the East Bank. Organizer of the event, Franklyn Wilson expressed that the East Bank Association has currently undergone some changes and are more firm and committed to the development of the sport on the East Bank of Demerara.

Marketing Assistant Darshnie Yusuf hands over the sponsorship check to organizer along with other representatives.

In, addition, Wilson expressed that despite the teams are uniquely aligned to the various villages on the East Bank, they wish for unique team names to be chosen. First, second, third and Fourth place will receive, $100,000, $75,000 and $50,000 respectively. Most Valuable

New GPC supports GTT Round Robin Knockout tourney – tournament to start tonight

By TREISTON JOSEPH

New Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation (NEW GPC INC) has signed on as a sponsor of the Guyana Telephone Telegraph (GTT) Company GTT Round Robin Knockout tournament set to start tonight at the Nn 5 ground, Berbice, which is being organised by the Petra Organisation.

At the press conference on Friday at the Brandsville Hotel, Director of the Petra Organisation Troy Mendonca noted that while there was a different concept to the tournament, they are thankful to NEW GPC for supporting the development of the game.

Technical Director of Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Claude Bolton stressed the importance of the continued partnership with organisations such as Petra.

“We have to commend Petra on their flexibility and their ability to work within a vision, this tournament becomes a tool to prepare you (the teams) for more (GFF

Leagues/Tournaments) GFF is not only about the Elite League and while person might think about the fans, I don’t care where the fans watch football once football is being played,” Bolton noted.

Marketing Manager of NEW GPC, Jagmohan Basso wished the teams well on behalf of Guyana’s leading pharmaceutical company, while urging them to stay fresh with Limacol.

“We at NEW GPC are elated to contribute toward the football tournament, we believe strongly in investing in sport because sport can help develop the youth and the country as a whole… we stand committed to the development of sport and athletes in Guyana,” Basso stated. The eight-team tournament will commence this evening at the No 5 ground, with two games, as Winners Connection will take on Rosignol United in the first encounter, while NA United will battle Milerock in the tournament’s second game. Action begins at 19:00h.

Courts Pee Wee set for semifinal action on Saturday

By TREISTON JOSEPH

Action in the Courts Pee Wee football tournament will continue today at the Banks DIH Thirst park ground with semifinal action.

The first semifinal will feature West Ruimveldt Primary and St Angeles in game that will feature some

tween St Pius

and Enterprise Primary.

Enterprise have shown a knack for scoring goals with a total of 23 in the tournament to date.

However, a strong St Pius team is standing in their way especially from a defensive perspective. The game is expected to be fast paced especially once

of

Player, Best Goal keeper and highest goal scorer will all receive $10,000 each. Action begins Tuesday November 10 at the Grove Community Centre Ground on the East Bank Demerara. Kickoff is 13:00h. (akeemg@guyanatimesgy. com)

tough defence. While both sides can score, St Angeles leads the tournament in goals with 24 while not conceding a single goal in the tournament thus far.

Nevertheless, West Ruimveldt is a gritty team and can definitely pose some problems for St Angeles with their well conditioned players.

The second semifinal will be a match-up be-

Enterprise is able to control the speed of the game. On the other hand St Pius with their stellar defence will have to contain the explosive Enterprise squad of they are to reach the final of the tournament. There will also be six other games that will place the remainder of the final 16 teams in numerical order from 5-16. Action begins at 10:00h.

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MOBILE WIZARD 10/10 softball…

Action continues at Leonora Primary School Ground

The mobile Wizard 10/10 organized by the Guyana Softball League continues at the Leonora Primary School Ground this weekend with four tournament matches and two exhibition matches

In the first match, Speedboat SC will go against Power XI. Speedboat possesses some in form players like Greg Singh and Annand Bharat. The bowling will be in the hands of Navindra Kooblall and Ganesh Narine and they will want to stamp their authority early. On the other hand Power XI has some exciting players who will be looking to show Speedboat how it is done. They possess players like Jaipaul Singh who took an amazing 6-1 in their first match

In the next encounter, Omesh XI will take on an Ocean XI team fresh from their walloping of a Linden All Stars Combine XI will now look to carry on in this vein. Their opening pair of Vickram Kisson and Aftab Bacchus are two destructive batsmen and will look to get their team off to a good start. The bowling will be in the hands Omesh Parbo and Marky Jabbar. The Ocean View XI will have the experienced Avinash Shradanandan in their batting lineup and for the bowling, Tameshwar Persaud has shown that he can bowl out any team as he has shown in his first match.

As for Wolf Warriors, they will be doing battle with a talented Young Guns team. Wolf Warriors will look to impress their fans on the west Demerara as they

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haven’t played a tournament of note in the area for a long time. They have all the experience and will be hoping it all comes together in this game.

Settle XI will then play Super Street XI. Settle XI won their first round match in style and will be looking for a repeat. They dominated that match and will be looking to do the same here. Super Street XI on the other hand, has the knack to surprise the big teams. They were on the verge of winning last week but got over confident and threw it away at the last moment.

In the exhibitions game, Bonasika Challengers will take on Crossbreed XI. Siblings George and Titus Gill will be the men batting upfront for Bonasika Challengers while brothers Seudat and Mahadeo Ramdat will handle the bowling. Crossbreed XI have been dominant in the tournament and a lot are expected from all the players as they play as very tight unit with all the players complimenting each other in both bowling and batting as has been seen so far.

Another exhibition match for the younger ones will be

Cornelia Ida Primary versus Meter-Mer-Zorg (MMZ). Cornelia Ida fresh from their victory over Leonora Last week will be hoping for a repeat and little Shazad Zaman the architect will be the weapon to be unleashed against MMZ Primary. MMZ Primary will be hoping to notch a win against Cornelia Ida as they have been practicing a lot.

Meanwhile the one ball bowl off will be introduced to the spectators along with the other incentive based games like hit the wicket, bowl out etc. Prizes will be given for the games and includes one Oakley shades compliments of Imran Hack, Mobile Wizard T- Shirts, and One thousand dollars in credit compliments of Miss Love Trading. One bottle of Champagne will be given to the player of the day compliments of V&P supermarket of Leonora.

The teams from East Bank who are still trying to register can contact Shafeek Mohamed on tel number 657-2300/265-4729 all other teams can contact the following persons Halim Khan – 612-8367; Miss Selena Azeez – 268-2458/6460568; Ammiel Azeez – 6290844; Leonard Harprashad – 646-0568;Ravendra Ramgobin- 276-1381; Asif Azeez – 657-22220; Mobile Wizard (Parika) – 260-4967. The tournament which has some 42 teams and is being sponsored by Mobile Wizards of Parika, Trophy Stall of Bourda Market, Wolf’s Furniture Store; V&P Supermarket of Leonora; Miss Love Trading of West Demerara. (akeemg@guyanatimesgy.com)

Sanasie lauds Albion Cricket Club for continuing to produce national stars …urges team to do us proud

Speaking to the Guyana Jaguars team prior to the start of the WICB Professional Cricket League (PCL) 4-Day 2015/16 match between Guyana and Windward Islands at the Guyana National Stadium on Friday, Secretary of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Anand Sanasie, lauded Albion Cricket Club for continuing to produce national stars.

The Secretary’s compliment was a result of the 20 year old left-arm orthodox spinner, Gudakesh Motie, making his senior regional debut in the match. Motie is a product of Albion Cricket Club and has been drafted into the team to replace his fellow Berbician, Veerasammy Permaul, who is out with an ankle injury.

A simple ceremony was held to hand over to him his baggy cap to identify him as a senior national player. He was congratulated by his teammates; GCB President,

Drubahadur, and GCB Secretary, Anand Sanasie; along with GCB staff.

“I want to thank the Albion Cricket Club for producing yet another national player who impresses all with his bowling. This Club through its extensive developmental plan, continues to produce high quality players for Guyana and we are grateful. I am sure the management body is jubilant about young Motie’s elevation”, posited Sanasie.

He added, “To Motie, congratulations, and I hope you value the meaning of receiving this baggy cap. Go out there and hold your own, do your best and make yourself and all of us proud. To the captain and the team, we came out from the last season as champions and we can do it again. We know it would not be easy but we are confident. You have been working very hard; this is the time where you show the results of your hard work.

Do us proud over the next five months.”

The first three rounds of this Tournament featuring Guyana will be played at the Guyana National Stadium. Guyana Jaguars will battle Windward Island Volcanoes over the next four days before taking on Leeward Islands Hurricanes in the second round (Nov 13-16), and Barbados Pride in the third round (Nov 20-23).

(GCB Release)

Inter-Ministry/Corporation futsal concludes group stage

By TreisTon Joseph

The Banks Beer InterMinistry/Corporation futsal tournament concluded its group stage on Thursday evening with eight thrilling games at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

It was a night of goal scoring action in the tournament as a number of teams put the hammer down on the offensive side of the floor.

The Guyana Fire Service destroyed Courts Guyana Inc 5-0 with Shameer Nazir leading the way for the Fire Service with a hat-trick in the eighth, ninth and 17th minutes.

New Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation racked up five goals as to top the media who scored three goals.

Leading the way for New GPC was Travis Martin with a double in thefourth and 14th minutes.

The Mayor and City Council topped the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company 5-3 as Anthony Sancho was the top goal scorer for the city council with a double in the seventh and 20th minutes.

Banks DIH was also in action topping the Ministry of Sport 5-2. Devon Forde and Andre Trotz scored doubles to lead Banks DIH to victory.

In other results; the Ministry of Health defeated the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission 5-2, Hopkinson’s Mininig topped Lands and Survey 5-1, Digicel and the Ministry of Presidency played to a four all draw and the Bounty Farm and the Barber’s Association finished 3-3. Action in the tournament will continue on Monday.

Pacesetters top Colts in GABA League

The Trinity Grid Holding (TGH) Pacesetters pulled of a closed 7977 win when the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) League continued on Wednesday evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The Pacesetters held on for a close win in the final mo-

ments of the game as they were able to grab a much needed win against the number two ranked team in the League.

Travis Burnett was his usual slice and dice self, penetrating the defence of the Colts at will to score a team high 23 points.

Stephon Gillis was a

Ramnarine Appiah Memorial T20 cricket

marksman from the threepoint and ended with 17 points while Randy Richardson patrolled the paint for 12 points in the win.

Dave Causway led all scorers with a game high 25 points in the loss while Shane Webster played well in the post for 16 points. Shelroy Thomas had 14 points while Kurt English had 12 points. Meanwhile in under-23 action, University of Guyana defeated Pepsi Sonics 61-41. Selvaughn Mosley and Jabar Joseph had 12 points apiece in the win for UG while scoring came from Joshua Lee with 13 points for the Sonics. Action in the tournament will continue over the weekend.

Wins for Kendalls Union Big Team, Rose Hall CC

Kristoff Bahadur

scored a robust 91 to lead Rose Hall Community Centre to a massive seven-wicket win over Goed Bananen Land in the Ramnarine Appiah Memorial T20 cricket competition for second division teams in the East Canje/ Lower East Coast, Berbice area. Below are the summarised scores of the matches played last Sunday. At the Goed Bananen Land ground, in game one, Hamid X1 won the toss and inserted Kendalls Union Big Team, who scored a challenging 181- 4 off their allotted 20 overs. Daniel Baker

top scored with 47. He received support from the consistent Navendra Mangra 42, Ravin Seecharran 27, Dasrat Debidin 26 and Tony

Garnett 21. In reply, Hamid X1 were bowled out for 145 off 17.5 overs. A Gajnabi top scored with 38 and got support from S. Khan with 35.

Samuel Baker took 4-11 and his brother Daniel Baker 4-15 for Kendalls Union. In the second match at the same venue, Goed Bananen Land won the toss and took first strike, scoring a challenging 142 all out in 17.4 overs. Roberto Britton top scored with 36. He got support from Imran Hussain with 29 and Pooran Jugisteer 26. Skipper Ameer Rahaman took 2-8 off 3.4 overs and Adrian Haralsingh 2-10. In reply, Rose Hall CC raced to 144-3 in only 13.2 overs. All rounder Kristoff Bahadur scored a rapid 91 (9x4 and 7x6). He got support from Haralsingh who scored 21 not out. Hussain returned with the ball to take 2-31 off 4 overs. Matches for this weekend:

At the Goed Bananen Land - Kendalls Union B will play Canje Pathfinders in game one, while Canefield Sports Club opposes Betsy Ground. At Cumberland: Young Warriors and Seawell clash in game one, while Young Warriors play No 7 in the other game.

Beach Soccer introduced in East Bank Football Association

In an effort to spread the sport of Beach Soccer, the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) in conjunction with the Guyana Beach Soccer Association (GBSA) and the Kuru Kururu Warriors Football Club (KKWFC) on Sunday last held a series of introductory matches under lights.

The venue was the Kuru Kururu Youth Choice facility, Linden Soesdyke Highway. In the matches played, Young Warriors defeated Energetic Gunners 4-0. Rocking the nets was Rudy Grant with a double, Jonathan Sparman and Nicholas Holder netted one each.

In game 2, Young Warriors lost a close battle against the Veterans, 4-5. Leading the Veterans was Cordell Johnson with a helmet trick, Joseph Walker converting the other. For Young Warriors, N. Holder, Etan Sparman, Michael Hooper and Marko Cudjoe were the players on target.

The final game of the evening saw the Veterans again posting another close 4-3 win against Danger Boyz in extra time, Ryan Scott sealing the deal for the Vets. Cordell Johnson was again on target, this time he netted a double.

More matches he said would allow for greater awareness of the sport and will bring out the community to support young talent.

Roberts also expressed gratitude to the EBFA and GBSA for its support. The said venue has been identified by the GBSA to host matches in the inaugural Beach Soccer league that will kick off next month.

Commenting on the activity, Kuru Kururu Warriors Vice President and Guyana Football Coaches Association Executive Member, Dale Roberts said that the players responded to the game positively and they are looking forward to have the game played more often at the venue.

World Junior Badminton in Peru

Average performance from Guyana’s 3-member team

GMen Singles: Narayan Ramdhani defeated Alonso Medel: 21-13, 12-21, 21-19.

Men Doubles: Narayan Ramdhani and Ronald Chang Yuen lost to Digeo Castillo and Alonso Medel: 21-12, 21-15

Mix Doubles: Priyanna Ramdhani and Ronald Chang Yuen defeated Matias Gompetz and Loreto Ponyigo: 21-14, 11-21, 21-19.

Guyana versus Singapore (0-3) –November-4

Mix Doubles: Narayan and Priyanna Ramdhani lost to Jin Lei Chuang and Chun Yi Deline Quek: 21-15, 21-9.

Guyana versus Indonesia (0-3) –November -5

Mix Doubles: Ronald Chang Yuen and Priyanna Ramdhani lost to Mychelle Crhystine Bandaso and Yantoni Edy Saputra: 21-11, 21-9

Men Singles: Narayan Ramdhani lost to Panji Ahmad Maulan: 21-9, 21-9

Men Doubles: Narayan Ramdhani and Ronald Chang Yuen lost to Andika Ramadiansyah and Rinov Rivaldy: 21-15, 21-9

Guyana versus Peru (0-3) – November-5

Men Singles: Ronald Chang Yuen Lost to Zin Rei Ryan Ng: 21-4, 21-3.

Men Singles: Narayan Ramdhani lost to Daniel La Torre: 21-18, 21-15.

A total of 40 counties took part, and the young Guyanese team, although they did not come out on top of the group, they were able to win some matches against the world top Badminton players.

Countries and matches played are as follows: Guyana versus Chile (2-3) – November 4

uyana participated in the first stage of the team events at the World Juniors Badminton Championships currently playing in Lima, Peru. The three-member team consisting of Sun Burst Champion Narayan Ramdhani and Copa Airlines Champions Priyanna Ramdhani and Ronald Chang Yuen played in Group C1 in a round against Chile, Singapore, Indonesia and Peru.

Chandrika maiden...

They omitted opener Shemron Hetymer and fast bowler Keon Joseph from the playing XI.

The openers Assad Fudadin and Chandrika motoring along as the righthander Chandrika found the pitch and attacking to his liking, getting off the mark with a cover drive boundary.

He followed up with consecutive boundaries off Kyle Mayers, but the defending champions lost the left-handed, Fudadin in the sixth over, the opener playing on to Mayers for four, at 27-1.

Following that, Chandrika and skipper Leon Johnson, who survived a perilously close leg before wicket shout up-front, took the total to 75.

Both batsmen had looked comfortable in the middle played themselves in, before Johnson indulging himself with four boundaries on either side of the wicket, including a six off off-spinner Shane Shillingford, who eventually finished the day with figures of 3-87.

But the left-hander, who played four Tests, hit a gusty 29, before losing his wicket, edging to first slip to give Shillingford his first wicket.

Chandrika made good progress up until the break in tandem with Vishual Singh. The right-hander was growing in confidence to raise his half-century off 87 balls, with seven boundaries. At lunch the Guyanese were 120-2, with Chandrika on 52 and Singh on 23.

After the break,

from back page

Chandrika was fortunate, thought. He edged a length delivery on the off stump from Mervin Matthew, who bowled a better length and achieving some deviation, operating with some sprit, but Keddy Lesporis spilled the offering at second slip.

Chandrika with one Test under his belt immediately went into the defensive, tackling the initial overs from Matthew and Shillingford without taking any risk.

However, the pair batted with assurance, and added 104 for the third wicket, before Shillingford provided the vital breakthrough, when he trapped Singh, leg before wicket for 48.

Chandrika was accompanied by Chanderpaul, West Indies most Test capped player, and together batted through the remainder of the session, with the right-hander, nine runs away from the milestone.

After the interval, Chandrika reached the landmark from 217 balls, 262 minutes, with 15 elegant boundaries.

The pair continues to put the Jaguars on course for a healthy firstinnings total. However, on 34, Chanderpaul was trapped leg before wicket to Shillingford to end the 80-run fourth wicket partnership.

Chandrika found a valuable ally in Reifer until the close. Play continues today at 09:30h, and admission to the venue is free. (rajivb@ guyanatimesgy.com)

Men Doubles: Narayan Ramdhani and Ronald Chang Yuen lost to Jain Liang Lee and Guang Liang Jason Wong: 21-9, 21-14.

Ladies Singles: Priyanna Ramdhani lost to Fernansa Saponara Rivva: 21-19, 2115.

Men Doubles: Narayan

Ramdhani and Ronald Chang Yuen lost to Bruno Barrueto Deza and Jose Guevara Llatas: 21-14, 2118.

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Opener Rajendra Chandrika put the Windward Islands Volcanoes bowlers to the sword with a masterful unbeaten maiden First-class century as Guyana Jaguars dominated the opening day of their first round West Indies Cricket Board (WICB)

Professional Cricket League (PCL) Four-day game at the National Stadium, Providence on Friday.

Scattered spectators watched the hosts finished the day on 287-4 with Test opener, Chandrika, who was 140 not out, and Raymond Reifer on 11, set to resume their 28-run partnership on the second day.

The 26-year-old was dropped on 53, but other than that his innings was a study of patience and timing. He struck 21 fours off 310 balls in 360 minutes at the crease. Guyana won the toss and opted to bat on a wicket expected to produce runs in sunny conditions.