Guyana times 9/20/2015

North

West

residents demand equality

and justice – want transportation costs reduced as for Berbicians

Coroner Departments to investigate – Granger

Top Cop to work with Essequibo residents to curb spike in crime

Essequibo businesses complain about stagnant economy Essequibo businessman looses $$$

Commissioner Singh warns defaulters in the forestry industry

SunDAY, September 20, 2015 | guYAnAtimeSgY.com

North West residents demand equality and justice

– want transportation costs reduced as for Berbicians

Onerous transportation fees are also imposed upon the residents of the North/ West district, Region One (Barima Waini) and given the inordinate attention being paid to the people of Berbice and their transportation woes, those Region One residents finally decided it was time to speak up about their exploitive situation and are calling on the David Granger-led

Administration to dispense fair, equal and just treatment to everyone in Guyana.

This position was supported by Regional Chairman Brentol Ashley, who suggested that Government intervene in a similar way and provide a heavily subsidised state-operated river taxi service to the residents of that area just as they did for the residents of Berbice.

Currently, residents of Port Kaituma have

to pay a total of $17,800 to get to Georgetown if they utilise the North/ West-Charity-SupenaamParika-Georgetown route (from Port KaitumaCharity $15,000; from Charity-Supenaam $1000; from Supenaam-Parika $1300 and from Parika0 Georgetown $500). A return trip would therefore cost one person $35,600. Residents from Moruka, which is closer to Charity, have to pay $6300 to get to Georgetown ($12,600 return) since the cost from Moruka to Charity is $3500.

However, the alternatives are the ferry system which takes residents directly from Port Kaituma to Georgetown at a cost of $2000. But this mode takes about 34 hours whereas the other route takes just about 5 hours. The other alternative is via aeroplane which costs about $15,000 per person from Port Kaituma to Ogle.

Residents contended that these fees are far higher than what the Berbicians are paying therefore; they cannot understand the preferential treatment being given to that region. They believe they should be facilitated to be connected with the rest of their fellow Guyanese.

In light of their cries, the Regional Chairman in an invited comment, stated that indeed the fees are extremely expensive, especially for the vulnerable people of the area, like the elderly.

He explained however that the only mode of transportation that the government has control over is the ferry service. Nonetheless,

he said Government could intervene to regulate the private river taxi services so the operators can stop exploiting residents or they could introduce subsidies to the operators just as they for the people of Berbice.

But instead of taking that route, government is seeking to introduce new ferries to ply the Port Kaituma- Georgetown route. The residents say that even if and when this occurs there will still be burdened with the high costs of transportation.

NEW Ferries

In fact, a significant changeup appears to be underway for the ferry fleet system of the Transport and Harbour Department (T&HD) with Government announcing the possible arrival of new vessels from India and the T&HD announcing several changes to the allocations of existing vessels.

State Minister Joseph Harmon, during his weekly post-Cabinet press brief-

ing on Friday, announced that government is already engaging the Government of Indian to construct two vessels specifically for the Mabaruma/Port KaitumaGeorgetown route.

In fact, in January 2015, then Public Works Minister Robeson Benn had announced that these discussions were ongoing with the Indian Government. Currently, the Lady Northcote is allocated to ply that route however; she is presently under emergency repairs which will last for approximately three weeks. Cabinet already approved $69 million for the project which was awarded to EC Vieira Investment Limited.

According to T&HD Chief Mechanical Engineer Dwayne Griffith, the vessel requires major repairs to the hull, the main deck, passenger deck and the lavatory. It must be noted that the Lady Northcote has been down for approximately three months.

Sunday Editor: 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

Integrity Commission and Asset Declaration

Following calls for former President Bharrat Jagdeo to declare his assets and his riposte that he would do so if Governmental officials, including Members of Parliament (MP's) would follow suit, the Government has announced that they will proceed with the resuscitation of the Integrity Commission. This Commission, widely viewed as a sine qua non of a functioning democracy to address the worldly temptations to those holding public office, has had a chequered history in our country.

Facing trenchant criticisms of runaway and endemic corruption during the People's National Congress long rule, in 1991, then President Desmond Hoyte introduced and enacted legislation for an Integrity Commission. However, its remit and functioning was so anaemic that no one was even cited by October 1992 when the PNC was voted out of office.

Returning integrity to the public sphere was one of the commitments of the People's Progressive Party's (PPP's) platform and even though the Integrity Commission continued under the Chairmanship of Bishop Randolph George, widespread discussions were initiated to constitute a more effective Commissions guided by a more stringent regime. By 1997, a very comprehensive Integrity Commission Act was passed.

The PNC, however, objected to Bishop George continuing as Chairman. Relying on the stipulation in the new Act that the Chairman and members of the Commission must be appointed upon "consultations" with the Opposition Leader they attempted to deny legitimacy to the body by refusing to engage in such consultations. This intransigence has continued into the present as the successors to MrHoyte, stuck to his line.

The definition under the 1997 Act was very expansive on who qualified as a "public official" and included not just members of the Government and Opposition but a wide range of individuals including Mayors and Judicial officials. In the face of the PNC's intransigence the Commission and their refusal to have their officials, such as MP's, comply with the most pertinent declaration of assets, the PPP MP's and several of the smaller parties such as ROAR and the AFC did make annual filings.

By 2005, then Opposition Leader Robert Corbin moved to the courts for a declaration that the Integrity Commission, as constituted, was "unconstitutional" but there has not been a ruling handed down. The PNC did instruct its MP's to prepare their declarations but not to submit them to the Commission. In 2006, Bishop George withdrew in the face of the PNC's unrelenting hostility to his role, but the PPP Government continued to accept him as the Chairman and the body continued to insist that officials filed their statement of assets.

In 2009, then acting President Sam Hinds invited and met Opposition Leader Robert Corbin for "consultations" on a new Commission. The latter would not agree to Dr James Rose as Chairman but agreed on the other three members - drawn from the Christian, Hindi and Muslim leadership. However, once again, the PNC attempted to apply a veto to the functioning of the Commission by withholding agreement on the Chair. The PPP contended that according to the rules in the Integrity Commission Legislation, which states that in the absence of a chairman the other three members can appoint a temporary Chairman, a valid quorum of the Commission that could make binding decisions was constituted.

What is of great interest is that since the Act has declared that both domestic and foreign assets must be declared and the PPP has been doing this from the onset, the Opposition and now the Government has lost a golden opportunity to examine those filings since they did not recognise the Commission. There are grave penalties, including incarceration for discrepancies in filings and actual assets. Against the foregoing background it would be interesting to see whether the PPP will demand that the filings the PNC asked its members to hold in abeyance until a "valid" body is constituted, will be submitted, before they agree to the new Chairman and members.

The era of knapsack racism

Dear Editor, Reports emerging from parents about a showdown at Williamsburg Secondary School, located on the West Coast of Demerara, have indicated that education takes a backseat when it comes to the colour of your knapsack.

The Head reportedly summoned 70+ students to her office to receive an official write-up in the Misdemeanour Book, to be sent home for the remainder of the school day and then told not to return to school without a black bag. When contacted for comment the Head of the School had this to say:

“Ahm….Ah doan know why peepull cyan see dis point. If ya wear ah bag dat is not duh colour it is supposed tuh be, well then ahmm…yu ain’t tekking your education serious.”

When questioned as to why the black bag is preferred to that of another colour, the Head said that over the years students have been allowed the privilege to wear bags of any colour and as a consequence performance levels of the school has dropped. As an example, she referred to the passes at CSEC for science related classes. She explained

that students wearing blue and pink bags were somewhat likely to fail and students with black bags had a 50% chance of “maybe kind of not really passing”.

She further claimed that rumours of a family member that sells black knapsacks in the village for a high price “ent all duh true them does sell all kinda bag, but if yall wan black bags dem can get”. A parent who happened to be at the school during the incident wanted to say how happy she was that she could now take back the textbooks she bought, for a refund, and buy a black knapsack so her child can get an education. It was also of mild concern that these students had their names entered in the book of misdemeanours and these events would have to be revisited when (if?) they graduate and seek jobs. One can only imagine how prejudiced employers will be against these rain bowedknapsack hippies.

The Head then responded with “ah cyan say” to the following questions by parents:

1. Is it true that under the code of conduct set forth by the Ministry of Education all schools need to be

held to this silly, and quite frankly embarrassingly insensitive, rule?

2. What if some of these children you sent home never return with a black knapsack because they don’t want to be racist and wish to enjoy the freedom of choice of colour?

3. Are you serious right now?

4. What prompted you to focus on the real issue of the colour of a child’s knapsack as opposed to the academic performance of your school?

5. Is it true that the knapsack is merely a tool and not part of an official school uniform?

6. Are you related to Kim Jong Un? And if you say no, then why are you trying to fix imaginary problems instead of doing real work?

7. Really, bro? Really?

Of course these kinds of situations force citizens to take a stand and it is clear where the Williamsburg Secondary will be standing, so for the many readers out there I’m compelled to ask will you encourage this kind of prejudice? How many pink knapsacks and blue knap-

sacks that have already been born must we sacrifice to appease an unjust system? What about their children, the purple knapsacks? Must we pile these knapsacks in a corner to never fulfil their true purpose in life?

One of the students had this to say:

“I have a dream, that brown knapsacks, and black knapsacks, and the few scattered white knapsacks, and all the pinks and yellows and blues, which reside in this land of many waters, can one day carry the books of my fellow students without such blatant prejudice.”

At the scene, one of the parents overheard talk of an underground rebellion that involved painting all these coloured knapsacks to make them black. Yes folks, instead of spending their time doing trivial things like studying and learning, the dear Head would rather have these children sacrifice their education until they conform to the rules of her administration.

To paraphrase George Orwell, “All knapsacks are created equal but some are more equal than others.

Sincerely, Rufus McCurry

Our best days are ahead of us

Dear Editor,

Our best days are ahead of us. The changing of Government, accompanied by the level of activism and involvement that brought about this change, bear testimony to this. Guyanese, whether living at home or abroad, want better for themselves and country. This desire for betterment is often seen in criticisms of things that appear contrary to aspirations. Such criticisms bode well for this country’s body politics because they come from a healthy desire of what we are capable of being and achieving.

As heated conversations take place in the communities among citizens and on social media, a common trend is noted in few threads. One, the people want the Government to succeed and do better. Two, the people, having lived through the years of bad governance, and are leery of this ever happening again as well as any sign that indicates the possibility of such, voices of condemnation will be heard. Three, whether persons are living in Guyana or abroad, the positives they see happening in other countries are what they want to happen here. And four, the people want a responsive and caring Government.

Some recent happenings are bringing this clearly home. With much admiration, awe and identity Guy-anese celebrated the athletic prowess and successes of our CARICOM brothers and sisters in Jamaica in the just con-

cluded World Athletics Championships. As this created conversations about the Jamai-can Government investment in its people and once glory days when Guyana too shined on the inter-national sporting arena, many are asking, ‘Why not us,’ or are clamouring to unleash Guyanese’s po-tentials.

Trinidad and Tobago recently came out of an election and while the People’s Partnership has lost the confidence of the people and the PNM has been returned to office, Guyanese expressed their admi-ration for the quality of the electoral process, swift announcement of results and swearing in of the diverse new Cabinet.

When Caricom was formed, those considered More Developed Countries (MDCs) were Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Jamaica. Guyana can still retains its place among this group, doing the right

thing.

In the USA where African-Americans are carrying out activism under the banner that ‘Black Lives Mat-ter’ in reaction to indiscriminate police racial profiling, this is used as lesson that race matters and re-mains of political significance and only the law can end racism. Guyanese, at home and abroad, joining the conversation and in support of their fellow man are too drawing nexus and feel the same must happen here if we are to make real our motto One People, One Nation, One Destiny.

And as conversations continue on our admirations for the positives in other societies, which are influ-enced by the desire to improve our lives, I am convinced that our best days are ahead of us, as words will lead to actions and bring about desired results. Yes, we can.

Sharma Solomon

Did Mayor Green use the misfortune of Crum-Ewing to advance his political agenda?

Dear Editor,

With the untimely and unfortunate death of political activist Courtney CrumEwing during the election campaign period several months ago , the nation can recall City Mayor Hamilton Green announcing his intention to take urgent steps to memorialise the name of the man who became well-known for his solo protests outside the office of the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs.

In fact in addressing a large gathering at the Burnham Basketball Court, Parade Ground where Crum-

Ewing’s body was taken for a public viewing, Mayor Green said that Carmichael Street between Middle, Main and New Market Streets would be named the Crum-Ewing block because “his memory and his work must not die”.

Listening to the Mayor then who declared that with the authority vested in him given by citizens, that he would be renaming that square where Courtney stopped, the Courtney Crum-Ewing block so that when, as he put it “the Most Honourable Distinguished and all-powerful Former Attorney General, goes to his

office he will be going through Courtney’s Block”makes me wonder now whether he has lost interest in the project, seeing that there is a new Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs occupying that office.

I think it is sad when our politicians use the misfortune of others to advance their narrow political agendas. Clearly that promise and declaration was just a cheap empty campaign gimmick and now it back to business as usual.

Sincerely,

Nadine Jerrick

Benefit of the doubt on APNU/AFC

Dear Editor,

While I disagree with the APNU/AFC Government on using Regional Executive Officers (REO) in subverting the Democratic process it is no different from the PPP/C in Government using Interim Management Committees (IMC) to do the same thing.

Since the PPP/C refused to hold Local Government Elections (LGE) which is a Democratic right of citizens to participate in governance at a local level the benefit of the doubt would be given to the four months old David Granger Administration at this moment in time.

Yours faithfully, Sean Ori

Note

Editor's

It is not the PPP that "didn't hold Local Govt elections". Instead, the PPP/C and APNU did not agree to the legislation and every year jointly deferred elections.

Page Foundation

Anu Dev

September 8th was International Literacy Day! It’s always such a thrill when there is an effort to get more people to read. Reading has always played an enormous role in my life. I think it’s because growing up there were always books around because both of my parents love to read. Some of my favourite memories growing up are of my Dad reading to my brother and me before bed. Not too long ago, we stumbled upon an electronic version of one of our favourite books from the earliest days, ‘The Monster at the End of the Book”. Much reminiscing about Grover - and the buildup of tension - was done that day!

There really isn’t anything quite like getting caught up in a really good book. Some books really manage to pull you into their narrative and you begin to feel like you actually know the characters. And then there’s that acute sense

of longing when you’re done the book and your journey with those characters has come to an end.

Reading compels you to use your imagination to engage the world the writer has conjured. And your apprehension through the written word makes that world yours as much as hers. It’s actually a mystery to me as to why persons deny themselves the opportunity to get lost in this act of co-creation that, (in the words of Rafiki, the resident philosopher from The Lion King), makes us “look beyond what you see”.

The ability to read isn’t the main hurdle in Guyana- we supposedly have a literacy rate of over 99% -an extraordi narily high figure. It is the DESIRE to read that’s the problem and one which won’t be over come unless the act of reading becomes enjoy able.

But that won’t hap pen if reading is something you’re forced to do for English B or if you believe that “The Chrysalids” - which I did for my CSEC - is as good as it’s going to get. There are some really amazing books out there: books that make you

cry, smile or even ac tually laugh. The examiners of CSEC are heading in the right direction with their new guidelines for literature appreciation and apprehension. Maybe they will now do something about the selection of texts: “The World of Prose” is as morbid as it gets.

Some of the greatest achievements of humanity are in the forms of great works of Literature. And narratives, over the centuries are insightful chronicles of history in their own right: Plato said it was even superior.

thor’s elaboration of a particular concept or her choice of a writing style are inevitably products of her time. In a reversal, we now even speak of the “poetics of history”.

If I were to recommend some books, I would probably recommend, in no particular order:

• The Ender Saga by Orson Scott Card

• Rosie Dunne by Cecilia Ahern

• The Ruby in the Smoke by Phillip Pullman

• Dune by Frank Herbert

• Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

• A Song of Ice and Fire by George R. R. Martin

• Private by Kate Brian

• Bossypants by Tina

• Foundation by Isaac Asimov The Monster at the End of the Book

These happen to be the books that popped into my head, probably because I’ve been thinking about them recently, I’m sure I’ve missed some of my favourites. But you know...have at them! Go forth and recommend your favourite books to your friends and read some of their favourites. Happy (late) Literacy Day!

Economic collapse feared in Bartica

The evolving uncertainty surrounding the future of the country, combined with the progressive slump in gold prices, has created an economic breakdown in the once bustling community of Bartica in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

Residents are crying as businesses continue to cut back on spending, while others plunge into bankruptcy or are forced to shut down. The drawback in economic spending power is taking a toll on all residents as they continue to hold onto their monies.

“This place up here different bad. Before, the entire First Ave would be crowded with people selling stuff, but now hardly anybody deh out,” said Molly,

the minimal sales coming in and the high cost of operations, noting that it is significantly impacting his business.

“Normally I would kill like about eight cows a day, now it’s down to two or three cows. People ain’t buying, so I have to cut down,” he stated.

Residents are also fearful that the Church’s Chicken Restaurant in Bartica will soon close its doors due to the decline in sales. In fact, residents explained that Church’s Chicken had been temporarily closed a while ago, but later reopened. Now, they presume the restaurant is heading for another closure.

“People ain spending. Like the only thing people really buying are like food

a resident from Second Avenue, Bartica.

First Avenue is typically where all the business activities would take place, and under normal circumstances a foreigner would be amazed by the level of activities occurring in such a small space.

“Normally, you know when them people does come out the bush; they gonna be spending nonstop, but not now. Them complaining how gold prices gon down bad and so they holding on to the money,” a market vendor related.

According to residents, the situation is becoming worrying as businesses, one by one, continue to close their doors. Based on reports, a popular restaurant called “Boulevard” was forced to end operations due to the steep decline in sales.

Also, a Brazilian butcher who operates from a rented building complained of

stuff; so them supermarkets and so stocking up with stuff that people have to get. The Chinese restaurants, they still going good because people buying Chinese food all the time, but the restaurants and clubs and so ain’t making it like they used to. The clothes places and so ain’t making it either,” Sanjay of First Avenue explained, describing the situation as worrying.

The Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association had previously reported that indeed the economy in Bartica is on a downhill. Signs of economic decline had actually begun since during the elections campaigning period, where residents were uncertain of the future of the country. From all indications, this uncertainty remains and arguably, has been growing since the instalment of the new Government.

(devinas@guyanatimesgy.com)

Govt to constitute Coroner Departments to investigate – Granger

Moves are already afoot to launch an investigation into the “extrajudicial killings” which plagued the country between the period 2000 to 2008. However, the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Opposition holds that any such inquiries should be broadened and lengthened. It could then encompass, for instance, such killings that go back to the seventies which could include the Glenn Lall vigilante killing of Kenny France of Mc Doom and that of Monica Reece in Georgetown.

President David Granger made this disclosure about his perspective on “investigating killings” during a televised appearance on ‘Public Interest’ where he was being interviewed by a Government Information Agency (GINA) Editor and a Guyana Times/Evening News Reporter.

According to President Granger, Government is in the process of ensuring there are proper Coroner Departments to efficiently and effectively investigate the respective cases.

“We are looking at that right

now to ensure that once we get going, every death that is reported we get to investigate,” he stated, noting the Government is taking their “time” on the matter to ensure everything runs smoothly.

But following the Government’s call for an investigation into the unsolved killings during that particular period of time raised some concerns for the PPP/C Opposition which questioned why the Government does not launch comprehensive investigations into all the deaths dating as far back as the assassination of

Walter Rodney in 1980.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo accused the A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/ AFC) of being selective in its calls of these investigations and suggested instead, that the probe be done into all the murders and all the missing weaponry.

“We should have an inquiry into everything, maybe the mother of all inquiries,” he stated during a previous media conference at the Party’s Headquarters at Freedom

House.

When President Granger was asked what cases in particular he would be opening investigations into, his response was “all of them”. He later explained that Government does not intend to make as their priority the high profile murders or the “spectacular deaths”.

“We want normal people,” he stated. Asked about the progress Government has made thus far, President Granger explained they are still in the preparatory stages. He reminded that these investigations require the Magistrates in each

district to be present and in the event this would be impossible, a dedicated coroner to handle the cases.

Furthermore, President Granger highlighted that in order to conduct these investigations, the Guyana Police Force would need to be strengthened in order to produce the necessary evidence to assist in the investigations.

While in Opposition, both the APNU and AFC supported the establishment of a National Truth and Reconciliation Commission to probe the countless killings that occurred over the years in Guyana.

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Jagdeo had highlighted some of the cases in particular that should be investigated.

He pointed out that there are still unanswered questions regarding the 155 missing Guyana Defence Force (GDF) weapons. Last August, Lieutenant Colonel Sydney James, who spent three days at the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry (CoI) on the witness stand, testified and submitted documentation that the GDF loaned high-powered military

weapons to the PNC’s Ministry of National Development.

The records that Lieutenant Colonel James tendered as evidence to the Commission showed the GDF had loaned 200-odd weapons to the Ministry, as well as paramilitary organisations and other agencies. Of those 200-odd weapons, 155 are still missing.

The work of the Rodney CoI was curtailed by APNU/AFC after it came to office.

“Let’s start with how the guns were given to the PNC and how they ended up in the hands of criminals in 2004. Granger (Brigadier (ret’d) David Granger) still doesn’t want to help us get back those guns,” Jagdeo had posited.

He added that the smuggling of guns from Suriname to Buxton during the 20022008 crime wave, the murders of Police Officers, the massacres in Lusignan and Bartica in January and February 2008 and “every single” charge of extrajudicial killings by the ‘phantom’ squads, among other issues, are areas that need to be looked into. (devinas@guyanatimesgy.com)

Herstelling murder

Murder charge to be read jointly on Monday

As Police wrap up their investigations into the murder of Nathan Persaud, who was killed two Thursdays ago, they are moving apace to institute a joint charge against murder suspect Oswald Jason Yaw and the wife of the dead man, Berverly Persaud.

According to Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, the duo is expected to make their court appearance on Monday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. He stated that the Police have received legal advice and will be moving full steam ahead.

Guyana Times understands, however, that the 72-

hour detention period had expired in the case of Yaw, but once the charge was read to him the Police can detain the accused until the closest court day. In this case, the closest day for the accused to be placed before the court is September 21.

Twenty-one-year-old Oswald Jason Yaw of Back Circle, East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, admitted that he was offered $1.7 million to kill 42-year-old Herstelling, East Bank Demerara Joiner, Nathan Persaud.

However during the interrogation, the man also admitted that on the day of the gruesome murder, he lured Persaud into the house under the pretext of using the washroom. While in the house he told investigators that he attacked Persaud from behind,

but a fight ensured during which he collected a piece of clay brick and struck the man to his head.

He then took a knife and stabbed the man at least twice, which caused him to fall to the ground. He completed the job by using the hammer to bash in his head. He reportedly struck the man 20 times.

Yaw stated the murder was planned by the now dead man’s wife, Beverly Persaud, who offered to pay him $100,000 weekly instalments until the full amount of $1.7 million was paid off. He took up the offer, claiming that he would finally have enough money to visit his girlfriend in Antigua.

Several hours after Persaud’s wife was arrested, she succumbed to pressure during interrogation on Friday evening, and admitted that she offered the suspect a huge sum of money along with airline tickets to Antigua to visit his girlfriend.

She also told investigators that she received a tip-off that her now dead husband was planning to have her killed, so she reportedly took the “first jump” by contracting a man to get rid of him. The woman, according to reports, also admitted that there was an ongoing feud between herself and the now dead man over

a property at Diamond, East Bank Demerara. With him out of the picture, it would have meant that the property would have been given over to her. After the murder was committed, the woman was seen boarding a minibus with the killer, who was carrying a blue haversack.

The 42-year-old man was found dead in his house on two Thursdays in a pool of blood in the living room of his Lot 66 Herstelling New Housing Scheme home. An autopsy proved the he died as a result of blunt trauma to the head. (bhisham@guyanatimesgy.com)

A cruel hoax...

...on rice farmers

If it didn’t have such serious consequences for our country, the “Case of the Missing $23B” that was supposed to’ve been set aside in for “the rice industry” in the Budget would’ve been like a standup Saturday Night Live comedy routine. First you have Winston Jordan, the straight man, telling Parliament and the beleaguered rice industry “don’t worry...be happy... we’ve got you covered!!”

Even though the PetroCaribe Fund was bare (well, less than US$1M ) because of the profligate PPP Government, Jordan unctuously declared he was going to allocate what was US$110M, for rice. Jagdeo, who knows a thing or two about budgets in general and funding in particular l pointed out that “things na regular” with such an allocation that would’ve covered 200,000 tonnes of rice!! But if Jordan insisted then farmers could expect at least $7000 a bag for paddy! Jagdeo declare that this couldn’t be “real money”. Not so, replied PRIME Minister Nagamootoo, who knows nothing about budgets in general and funding in particular. In fact he said the $23B was specifically for rice farmers. Bring out the fatted calves!! But then Jordan said “Oops!... Only $5B was transferred to GRDB for rice and the $23B was for SHIPPING rice to Venezuela. By this time, rice farmers were literally committing suicide in frustration over their debts that the Government had promised to intermediate.

Now comes Minister of the Presidency Harmon who now says that what they really meant was that the $23B was going to be placed into the PetroCaribe Funds to cover “shipments”. As to whether it’s “shipments” of rice or oil, he wouldn’t or couldn’t say. Now it might very well be for the former because of how payments for oil under PetroCaribe is structured.

When the oil price is US$100 per barrel, we pay 40% of the cost within 90 days and the remainder in 25 year at a nominal interest rate of 1%. But the payment schedule fluctuates with the price of the commodity: between US$80-100, 50% must be paid up front; between US$5080 per barrel - 60% and below US$50 - WHICH IT IS NOW!!! - the full price.

What this means therefore is that right now we have to pay Cash on Delivery for oil from Venezuela. And this is why we’ve probably shifted more of our shipments from Trinidad. So what we can now see - as Jagdeo figured out immediately - is that a cruel hoax was played on the rice farmers of this country by the government.

But what is even more incredulous is that they thought they could get away with it!!

...on registration plates

Once again this Government has revealed where its priorities lie when it comes to the word of business versus their spending on themselves. Now when any businessman thinks about “vehicle plates” he worries that since 2 plate series were changed during the past two Septembers - meaning that more than 10,000 cars were sold per year (PRR and PSS), this year, we haven’t even touched PTT 8000.

This means that the monies earned from more than 2000 cars at an average of $2.5M each - $5B - were lost to the economy. But does the Government care? Nope!! They’ve just announced they’ll be rolling out their new CRG plates that’ll be fixed on their new wheelslike Nagamootoo’s $22M Land Cruiser. With the new plates to distinguish his ride from those of you ordinary slobs - his Berbice constituents will now recognise him immediately when he tools around to see how they’re coming on with paddy at $1200 per bag.

Ain’t funny, right? Damn right it ain’t funny.

...on State media

Now we knew it’s not easy being state media. “Do we or do we not (pander)”?” is the worry. But “Granger gets Rock Star reception in Linden” as a front page headline? Jeez! Let the fella retain some dignity!

Water taxis and Berbice Bridge can co-exist

The Private Sector Commission (PSC) is calling on Government and the Berbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI) to negotiate new terms to establish a win/win formula for the operation of the Berbice Bridge saying that a ferry verses a bridge is a non issue and supports the Berbice River Bridge over a ferry.

Chairman of the PSC Major General (Ret’d) Norman McLean says the PSC in supporting the Berbice Bridge against a ferry service, says that a ferry on the Berbice River will be a non-competitor to the Berbice Bridge.

McLean who at the time making an address at the opening of the Berbice Expo and Trade Fair on Friday evening at Albion, said while Government wishes to re-

duce the bridge toll and the BBCI says this will result in an extension of the repayment period, new terms need to be looked at.

“The BBCI claim of 50 years seems far-fetched and unreasonable. The PSC wishes to advise that the Government and BBCI ne-

gotiate new terms. It may mean no subsidy will have to be paid – good for the Government. The toll reduction will be good for the People,” McLean said.

McLean said Guyana as a whole was very successful in attracting a long list of investors. “All the Major

Banks, Life Insurance Companies, most Pension Funds, NIS, New GPC and T Geddes Grant with NIS being a preferred shareholder with many ordinary shareholders.

This is a most impressive list of investors in this important utility project to bridge the two sides of this important river and provide a pathway and conduit to Suriname.”

He noted that the Demerara Harbour Bridge is now about 40 years old and is still standing. “It is not as good as the Berbice Bridge, and we can have confidence that it will last. The problem seems to have been compounded by where the bridge was located but I cannot now change that and I can only hope that the criteria used for the locations were an important factor on where it was located.”

According to Mclean, who is also the President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), the PSC supports the Water Taxi Service.

Following the May 11 Regional and General Elections Government moved to unilaterally reduce the Berbice Bridge toll and a deadline was set for its implementation at September 1.

“But it seems that there were many outstanding issues which were not resolved and the deadline was passed. As this is a private/public partnership, the BBCI wanted to consult its shareholders. The Private Sector Commission, as a concerned entity invited the BBCI to a meeting on September 8, 2015 to seek to resolve the impasse. The discussion was fruitful and we found that there were a large number of Banks and Pension Funds that had invested millions into this venture, a venture which benefited the people of Guyana and particularly those in Berbice.”

He noted that the bridge was constructed and opened in December 2008 and the utility seems to be a good one and is maintained and operated in a most efficient manner. “We have seen this at the Demerara Harbour Bridge where that bridge is 40 years old and there have been Water Taxi Services from Vreed-en-Hoop to Stabroek, at Berbice this can be implemented. This can be implemented from two locations at Rosignol and Blairmont to New Amsterdam. In my years of service in Berbice, I have used the Blairmont Launch to get to New Amsterdam in the absence of the ferry. I would, however, wish to address the issue of safety. This is critical for our children to get to school and must be addressed.”

(Andrew Carmichael)

Rock Star

Satiricus was agog. And he hadn’t even had a tipple of grog. There in the staid, old, State newspaper, the Kronic, was the blaring headline - “Pressie - Rock Star in Lindon”!!! This was not the old suck-up rag that it used to be when the PPEE were running the show. So the new Editor couldn’t possibly be trying to score brownie points with the Big Enchilada.

“No Siree!!” thought Satiricus. “Hadn’t Naga Man, who’d willingly given up all the paraphernalia of High Office as “Prime Moocher” to become the Poomba of the Press, the Mogul of the Media, gathered all the staff around him and assured all and sundry they were free to whatever they wanted to write?

“This was a new dispensation,” the Whimsical Man had announced in his dulcet voice, while wearing his battle olive fatigues. “You can even say we “blundered”, any time you want!” So Satiricus knew this new headline was on the money. But he’s already suspected Pressie was a man with the moves of a Rock Star. Wasn’t there that famous pic with him doing that slick move like a young Rod Stewart with Naga Man gazing adoringly at him like Elton John? Well...Elton will be Elton...and Naga will be Naga.

But it all now made sense to Satiricus, since that this senior reporter at the Kronic had outed Pressie as a Rock Star. Satiricus had wondered where Pressie kept jetting off towithout a word from his press people. “No... not the WICB water boy,” thought Satiricus, “He services Naga Man, even when he wasn’t doing his Elyon John routine!”

Pressie was jetting off to perform at his gigs abroad. Obviously his performances on stage during the campaign, which had been put on YouTube, had first “trended” then gone “viral”!! Satiricus remembered when an obscure Korean pop-aspirant had received millions of hits with his “Gangam Style”!! Pressie, being even more personable, must’ve made an even bigger impact. Soon Satiricus knew Gayle and Bravo would be breaking out on the cricket field with their “Pressie Style”!!

Gayle would be perfect with the new dance style leaning back with out-turned palms, and swaying to “Bring it on Jaggy Boy!!” But Satiricus became sad when he realised how Guyanese were narrow minded and bigoted. Just because Pressie was a leader, why couldn’t he do what his inclinations made him do? Why did he have to be all uptight and dour just because he was Pressie.

Haiti’s Pressie was a Rock Star, wasn’t he? And look how well he was performing - both as Pressie and Rock Star. Satiricus just loved the new team at the Kronic who’sd forced Pressie to let down his hair. Even if he couldn’t toss a blonde mane like Rod Stewart, he could always growl, “Tonight’s the night”, baby!!”

North West residents...

from page 3

Minister Harmon during the conference expressed great concerns over the level of maintenance of these vessels and as such, Cabinet mandated Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson to immediately inquire into the leasing of a vessel from overseas for the use in the route Georgetown to Mabaruma/ Port Kaituma.

During the interim, passengers are using the MV Kabima to travel that route while they utilise private vessels to transfer their cargo.

The Lady Northcote will return to sea when all the repairs would have been completed.

However, until Government acquires a new vessel(s) to ply that route, the MV Barima is slated to take over from the Lady Northcote.

According to T&HD General Manager Marcelene Merchant, the MV Barima, which is also docked for emergency repairs, will replace the Lady Northcote as soon as the works are completed. She stated that the repairs will last longer than three weeks. With the MV Barima set to replace the Lady Northcote, the latter will either be scrapped or put to provide services on the Berbice River. Moreover, the MV Torani which is currently docked at the Stabroek Wharf has been down for over three years and is currently being utilised for spares. Meanwhile, rehabilitation works are set for the Goods Wharf, Kingstonaccording to the T&HD General Manager. She said the cost should be included on the capital programme in the Budget 2016. Merchant disclosed that the repairs include exchanging of piles and beams and the replacement of the fender system- which will amount to some $75 million.

Essequibo businesses complain about stagnant economy

Businesses operating within the confines of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) have voiced their concerns over the stagnation of the economy, pointing out that they are more sellers than buyers.

Taxi drivers, small shop operators, rice farmers, supermarket owners and vendors are among those who shared their concerns about the economy. Many persons cited the unprofitability of the current rice prices as the main cause for the sloth in the economy seeing as how rice is the main economic activity in Region Two.

According to Executive Member of the Essequibo Chambers of Commerce (ECC) Ravi Mohan, Chairman of the National Task Force Commission, Joseph Singh, informed stakeholders last Friday that businesses throughout the coast are bitterly complaining about the sloth in the economy. He stated that many persons cannot afford as much things as they used to in the past. This has even caused some businesses to send staff home due to lack of sales.

Mohan explained that

he interacts with many business personnel on a daily basis and have heard complaints that business is slow and there is nothing to jump start the economy. The Executive Member, who is also a promoter/entertainer, stated that whenever he goes out to seek sponsorship for his morning television show, he often hears the same complaints. The current situation is very unfavourable.

Upsurge in crime

The ECC member said that there is also an upsurge of crime within the region. He stated that many businesses are being targeted, and often times the thieves are not caught.

“The environment, day by day, is not becoming safe; the business is not making much turn over profit and they are being robbed. There is nothing positive, every days one after the other,” Mohan noted.

Even the taxi drivers plying from the SupenaamCharity route are feeling the squeeze. They have also vented their frustration noting that fewer people are travelling than before. They said that they have to wait hours to get passen-

gers and explained that this was never so in the past.

Lack of demand

Meanwhile a cash crop farmer at Charity, Essequibo Coast explained that there is a decline of sales for vegetables in the market. According to Dyal Mohindar, he usually ventures to the market around 05:00h in the mornings to sell his produce. Sometimes it will be 09:00h, and nothing sells. “There are sellers more than buyers. Everyone pro-

Georgetown business slumps

Businesses in Georgetown are facing the harsh realities of the economic slowdown for the past few months and the owners are calling on Government to tend to the situation urgently as they grapple with a decrease in sales as well as the increase in the prices of goods.

ducing and turning up to the market and many persons are just doing window shopping; things not selling and that is mainly because money is not in circulation,” Mohindar explained.

The cash crop vendor said that, in the evenings, he is forced to throw away bags of boulanger and callaloo, as they often looses their freshness in the sunlight. He stated that he usually goes to market twice per week, but now he only afford one trip since its more profitable. “I have

to pay transportation cost. Sometimes I don’t even make back my money, so I stop go regularly,” the vendor related.

The downfall of the rice industry Rice farmers are also complaining over the price. They said that the cultivation of rice is there main source of income, and presently they are being given a price that cannot even offset their expenses.

“How would we sustain our families? Rice is Region Two life; everyone

depending on that. If rice is not given a good price, then everything else will be less; the spending power is less,” one farmer explained. Farmers are of the view that the new Granger-led Administration is not doing anything in their favour to sustain the industry.

A small shop owner said that she has a lot of her stock on hand. When asked her reason for this, she said that persons are not buying. If they do, they take credit. She stated that if the current situation persists, then she will be forced to close her shop. “I am a single parent. I took money from the bank so I can do something for myself, but now it’s so slow that I can’t even get a profit. I have children to go to school; everyday they need something. I thought at after May 11 there would be significant change, but this is not change,” the poor mother noted.

Region Two is predominately an agricultural region and many persons depend on the cultivation of rice. Many families sustain their livelihood from the sale of their paddy. If the price for rice is not right, then eventually the various sectors will be affected.

sue,” one frustrated businessman vented.

A trip to the usual bustling Regent Street on Saturday revealed that business is not only slow for the large scale business, but also for the small businesses.

Government after 23 years? Is it because the majority of people who spend money and keep the economy afloat are awaiting the decisions and actions of the new Government before they start spending again? Is it because people naturally don’t have money to spend? Surely it cannot be because of a new Government. As of now, the new Government has not instituted any new policies or regulations

not as normal, certain bills are challenging to meet,” the man related.

Some persons expressed their views that the chances of the economy improving are low if the Government does not find ways of assuring and coercing investors’ confidence. “Surely the Minister of Business needs to step in here as he is yet to do anything of substance. Why do we even have a Minister of Business if

Dave Lall, a large scale fisherman expressed his dissatisfaction with the way the new Government is handling the situation as he stated that they are not putting enough effort into reviving the economy.

“For the past two years business in the entirety has been on a constant slope, as of mid May, 2015, that slope escalated into a downward spiral with no visible intentions of a parachute upwards. One has to wonder why the sudden drop just as we welcomed a new

that would cause such a drastic change towards the spending pattern of the Guyanese people. Now the important and rational question is…what will the new dispensation do to build consumer confidence and get the Guyanese people spending again?” he stated. Lance McPherson, a handicraft vendor explained that he is facing the negative impacts of the slowdown as it is throwing him on the breadline. “For the past three months business has being slow…money circulation was here when they were school shopping but

after five months he still cannot come up with solutions or ideas to fix the problem? At one point in time he even denied the economic slowdown, how can you address a problem that you do not see? In terms of how is it affecting the business community, well the data is there for everyone to see. The markets are empty, workers are being laid off by the hundreds, businesses are closing down et al. I personally have made zero profits this year as people just refuse to spend. It has come to the point where my business

is on hold pending the outcome of our spending powers and if any improvements would be made. People are crying daily and we are headed to an indefinite recession if something isn’t done now to curb this is-

Even the Chinese investors are facing the brunt of the situation as they fight to keep their businesses alive. Ann Beryl, a Chinese store own-

er stated that she has faced much difficulty in selling off inventory. “Business is very slow, people aren’t spending. Person would come in, watch and walk out back. No sale in the longest while,” she stated.

Major reforms for mining industry

revamping of GGMC

capping of mining lands

heightened patrols in mining camps

Major reforms are underway for the local mining industry as Government plans to embark on several initiatives aimed at improving the overall operations of the sector to reduce mining deaths, eradicate illegal mining, and enhance law enforcement in the sector.

A recent meeting between the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association

(GGDMA) and the Minister of Governance with responsibility for Natural Resources and Environment Raphael Trotman, a decision was taken to immediately implement four key strategies which can form the basis of a total reform of the sector.

The initiatives to be immediately implemented include the sensitisation of miners and stakeholders with respect to mining deep deposits while taking the soil type, ground water lev-

el and other geotechnical parameters into consideration. This programme would aid in raising awareness and educating stakeholders on the proper procedures to be followed to avoid incidents that could lead to fatal accidents.

In fact, the other initiative includes the development of a system of reporting mining accidents and mining-related deaths by GGMC operators. These systems will also record “near misses” or slumping of pit walls/fac-

es. Collection and evaluation of this information would prove useful in monitoring the practices implemented by miners so authorities can consequently best determine how to intervene to address

erators would continue along the incorrect path while the GGMC officers look the other way.

The fourth step agreed upon by the team is the development of a comprehensive set of guidelines to deal with the stripping of overburden with or without excavators, clearing trees and debris from the rim of the pit, prohibiting the undercutting of working face, avoidance

the respective issues.

Additionally, GGMC is mandated to conduct more regular sweeps in all the mining districts to ensure compliance with the established mining and safety guidelines. However, Government did not elaborate on how they intend to do this.

Recently, the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into mining deaths revealed that GGMC did not have focus, capacity or strategy to ensure compliance with the established regulations. The report indicated that GGMC officials would perform its usual functions of monitoring and flagging noncompliant operators however, these operators tend not the take the matter seriously. As a result, the op-

of high pit faces/walls, and establishing stable slopes, among other issues.

Revamping GGMC

Furthermore, President David Granger during the television programme “Public Interest” where he was being interviewed by a Government Information Agency (GINA) Editor and a Guyana Times/Evening News Reporter, also rolled out some of his ideas for the revamping of the sector. He stated Government will embark on removing all levels of corruption from GGMC thus ensuring the “right people” are employed.

“We are looking at the quality of human resources, of management, and super-

vision,” he said, noting that the Commission will soon comprise of un-bribable civil servants.

President Granger also alluded to the lack of law enforcement in this sector and pledged to ensure this issue is immediately addressed.

He said steps are being taken to ensure stronger enforcement of the already existing laws through dispatching more officers into the regions to conduct regular checkups to ensure miners have the relevant documentation for mining and that they adhere to the laws.

Additionally,

Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud disclosed that new checkpoints will be established and stronger intelligence gathering techniques will be employed to allow officers to better execute their mandate.

Capping mining lands

President Granger also disclosed that considerations are still ongoing regarding the capping of mining lands per person. He said this is something Government intends to implement and that Minister Trotman will soon present the proposal to Cabinet.

“If we are going to attract industrial-scale miners, they are going to have access to more lands,” he said, noting at the same time, government will not be giving out more lands than they can control.

He maintained that the position is to ensure an equal playing field for all types of miners by avoiding situations that can lead to monopolies in the industry. (devinas@guyanatimesgy.com)

Granger pushes youth, women empowerment… at PNCR Council Meeting

The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) held its third General Council Meeting for 2015 on Saturday where leader of the Party, President David Granger urged party members to focus on youth and women empowerment.

The meeting was held at the Party’s Headquarters, Congress Place, Sophia, Georgetown. The General Council Meeting was held under the theme “PNCRFacing the Future United and Resolved to Achieve National Consensus”.

During his feature address, President Granger said he was thankful for the hard work that was put in by Party members all across the country.

“I thank you, I want to thank you for all your hard work over the last 23 years to make this opportunity possible. I see this as an opportunity, not a victory,” he said. The President noted that the coalition’s victory was an opportunity to implement the promises the PNCR have been making to the people of Guyana. “It is an opportunity to serve,” he added.

The Leader urged the General Council to work to achieve several goals, including equality for women.

“Over the next five years we must work to make women equality a reality,” Granger stated, while adding that the country could not move forward unless social cohesion is achieved.

“This country must be one nation, one people. If we are to achieve our full potential we have to become more socially cohesive,” the President noted.

Addressing youth unemployment, President Granger outlined that “jobs for our young men and women must be our top priority over the next five years.” He further noted that the high school drop-out rate is a major problem in the country.

“A big problem in Guyana is keeping children in school; we must do everything possible to give all of our children access to education,” he said.

Moreover, the Party Leader renewed his promise of one laptop per teacher, and called for more emphasis on Information Technology. He noted “… we have to train a generation that is committed to innovation… a generation of entrepreneurs and manufacturers.”

To loud applause, the PNCR Leader told the General Council that APNU/ AFC Administration will deliver a good life to all Guyanese. “We will deliver that good life for all Guyanese… it will not be done with hand-out, but with a helping hand.”

Saturday’s Council Meeting was chaired by the

GPHC Maternity Ward upgrade is 50% complete – Minister Norton

TPNCR Leader and President David Granger addressing the gathering at the party’s Council Meeting

Party’s Chairman, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams. In his welcome and introductory remarks Williams pointed out that, “After 23 years, there is a new President –a PNCR President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.”

Williams thanked Party Members for their hard work, steadfastness, sacrifice and for staying the course and working in partnership (APNU/AFC) to secure a victory for the people of Guyana at the May 2015 polls.

However, the Party Chairman warned that, “We cannot rest on our laurels; we must set about to work to secure a good life for all Guyanese.”

The General Secretary’s Report was presented by Oscar Clarke. He brought General Council up to date with the state of the Party’s Secretariat, the youth and women’s arm of the Party and all Party regions (local and overseas) and the work of the Secretariat during the period between General Councils.

The General Secretary reported to the Council that the state of the Party was strong, poised and ready for the task ahead.

Following the Leader’s feature address there was a panel discussion on local Government elections. Meanwhile, a lively plenary during the second session examined the Party Leader’s address and General Secretary’s Report.

This session also dedicated time to planning for the upcoming local government elections. The General Council concluded with a summation and charge which was given by Leader President David Granger. Additionally, a minute of silence was observed during the meeting for Party Members who had passed away in the period between General Councils.

(vahnum@guyanatimesgy.com)

he $235.9 million upgrade being done to the Maternity Ward at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) is approximately 50 per cent completed, Public Health Minister Dr George Norton said on Friday. It is estimated that the extension project will be completed by February, 2016.

This multimillion dollar project will see 40 additional beds being added to the maternity ward, which is more than often over crowded with mothers having to share beds. In addition to the birthing room, operating theatres and offices, the 24-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) will be redesigned. According to the Public Health Minister, of the 24 incubators that will be installed, six will be designated for severe patients.

Making reference to the NICU, Dr Norton said steps are being taken to reduce the spread of buds and infec-

tions within the Unit. “Bugs are a very, very dangerous; they can mutate; they can come from nowhere, and we have got three areas to deal with. We have got the birth room where you are going to deliver the baby then take to the NICU, you could very well be taking bugs with you. You have the operating theatre where you might be rushing babies to, another source of infection and you have the actual room itself.”

He said better can be done to safeguard neonates.

In 2012, the 24-bed NICU at GPHC was re-commissioned by the Guyana Help The Kids (GHTK) Foundation in collaboration with the Health Ministry. The facility was brought up to standard with the installation of procure monitors, IV pumps, pump monitors and incubators procured from funds raised by the GHTK. Prior to the commissioning, the Unit was in dire need of incubators, which support the breathing of premature infants while they are still

hospitalised, so they have a better chance of survival. Since then, tremendous progress has been made in the area of neonatology.

Meanwhile, in 2014, $50 million was budgeted for the expansion project; however it was subsequently used as a consulting fee. Also in 2014, $22.6 million was allocated for the establishment of maternity waiting homes, in Lethem and Bartica, to cater for antenatal high-risk mothers. (smarshall@guyanatimesgy.com)

As Local Govt Elections looms…

Over 50 % of PPP/C list represent non-party members

In preparation for the much anticipated Local Government Elections (LGE), the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Opposition has assigned more than 50 per cent of its List Representatives as non-party members, including common individuals of communities with recognised skills and who already enjoys the confidence of residents.

The Party made it clear that it is in full support of LGE and will participate whenever the Government decides to name a date.

“The PPP/C intends to obtain clear and majority support as it did when it won seven of the 10 administrative regions,” the Party stated.

Since the passage of the Local Government Bill 2015, Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan has been mum on a date for these elections. Prior to

the passage of the Bill, the Minister touted December 7 as the date for the LGE.

When contacted recently by Guyana Times, Bulkan stated that Government is simply waiting on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to give the go ahead to announce a date. However, GECOM, in a press statement, explained that it is unlikely that LGE will be held before the end of 2015.

“Consequent upon the passage of the Bill by Parliament, the preparations for, and the prerequisite conduct of Claims and Objections leading the finalisation of the Official Register of Voters would take GECOM at least to the end of 2015,” GECOM stated.

Against this backdrop, the PPP/C noted the evolving uncertainty surrounding the situation with the date and management of

the next LGE in Guyana.

“The latest legislative amendments to the electoral laws and the double speak of the Government and the constitutional GECOM have led to confusion as to the likely date of the elections. Even more confusing is the Grangerled Administration amendments that failed to be sourced from GECOM,” the Party stated.

The Opposition Party had previously highlighted that most of the amendments made to the Bill did not originate from GECOM. GECOM had requested that Government make 19 legislative amendments to the Bill, which they claimed were hindering their agenda in preparing for these elections. Following the passage of the Bill, GECOM issued a release explaining that there are still outstanding legislations that need to be addressed, including the

movement of Nomination Day from 21 days to 50 days before Election Day, among other aspects that can pave the way for the extraction of the Preliminary List of Voters from the National Register of Registrants (NRR), instead of from the 1992 Official List of Electors as is currently provided for in law.

Meanwhile, the PPP/C remains committed to its calls for electoral reform.

“The PPP’s focus will continue to be on management of the GECOM machinery. No more, the PPP asserts, should elections results in Guyana be the outcome of the May 11, 2015, shenanigans of GECOM,” the Party reaffirmed.

The Party added, “That the electoral system for the Local Government Elections makes the selection of representatives for organs a matter of great significance.”

Younge’s Take The "Point Plan" President

While in opposition, David Granger spent all of his tenure sharing his plans and vision for Guyana’s socioeconomic development if he was to be given the chance to lead the country as President. Then of course, there was the elaborate Manifesto with its 100-day promises.

Immediately after winning the May 11 General and Regional Elections, Guyanese were again fed a plethora of measures and plans that they could expect from the President-elect.

On this occasion, he spoke about eradicating poverty, restoring the beauty and glory of Georgetown, the capital city, ending corruption, boosting foreign and local direct investments and national unity.

Since becoming President, Mr Granger during his first few weeks continued to boost the expectations of the citizenry with more plans and intended actions that would result in them achieving and living “the good life”.

Months into his presidency and he apparently is still planning this and planning that. It is a bit shameful that the President at every event and conference, he is invited to speak or address announces a “5 point plan” or “four-point plan” or “eight-point plan” or “fifteen-point plan” which again is blueprint of his vision for the sector.

Mr Granger can easily be described as the “point plan president”. Since his coalition Government took control of the Executive, it has done literally nothing to create economic, ethnic and political stability in the country.

The country appears to be at a standstill even as the Ministers of Government are allowed to embark on crusades and travelling expeditions around the world under the transparent excuse that they are either on official state business or party business.

The President too must have acquired a mega travel miles from his numerous trips overseas - public, private and secretsince being elected to office in May.

Instead of rolling out some infrastructural projects that could stimulate spending in the country and result in economies of scale for the small businesses, the Government is busy attacking critical private sector investments made under the former Government.

Mr Granger’s Government has also not implemented any strong and well-received crime fighting strategy to end the reign of terror and criminality which have taken innocent Guyanese hostage.

Apparently, the 2:00 am curfew and gun amnesty are more important than causing a massive reduction immediately in the crime rate. Why hasn’t the Vice President with responsibility for Public Security issued a stern warning to the Police Commissioner on this matter that would demonstrate his Government’s intolerance for crime even as he offers more support in the form of resources?

The Miners are crying out and the Government’s response is ‘we are drafting a four-point plan that will address your issues’.

The Government is busy launching a Commission of Inquiry into this and into that, firing people from their jobs and probing everything under the sun, instead launching core programmes and initiatives that will benefit the poor and vulnerable.

Essequibo residents are begging the Government to effect a small decrease to the unreasonable ferry fares but the President could care less at the moment because he is doing that he can to help residents at Pomeroon benefit from his politically-inspired school boat initiative while literally fighting the Berbice Bridge Company to take immediate actions that could cripple that private investment.

The problem is, this Government is not taking decisive action to enable Guyanese to benefit from “relief” and the much needed “stimulus packages” following the General Elections while it seeks to create stability.

It has allowed uncertainty to reach monstrous levels and is doing absolutely nothing to confirm its promise of a “good life”.

It is disappointing that Mr Granger is still in a “planning” mode even after he had over six years in opposition making all of his plans. He should have been in “executing” mode and should have commenced the process of reform.

Guyana does not need another “point plan president”, Guyana needs a “can do” President who will take action and get things done. The Government is busy trying to reinvent the wheel when it could merely be focusing on how to improve the wheel in order to get more out of it.

It is clear that the President has a plan! We get it, when will he execute it so that we can benefit from it and all its points….

Top Cop to work with Essequibo residents to curb spike in crime

Commissioner of Police

Seelall Persaud has urged Essequibians to pay attention to their children in order to get them involved in meaningful activities that will positively affect their future.

Persaud was at the time speaking at a special community meeting on Saturday at the Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary School in Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam). The meeting was aimed at building partnership with the Police and community, and outlining the work, role and responsibility of the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

Speaking to persons from the business community, youth groups, religious organisations and residents from various communities, Persaud said there has been a noticeable increase of crime between the ages of 15-35. He said with that in mind, one needs to realise youths need to be occupied before they become predators of the negative gangs.

“You have to occupy youths in sports, in that they learn to compete, sports programmes help in the development process. You don’t have to have academics to play sports,” Seelall said.

He said the Force is assiduously working along with faith based-community network projects aimed at giving 1st time offenders another chance. The faith projects work along keenly with victims of serious crime to form a Chaplaincy Programme and also help with the Suicide Prevention Helpline.

Problems raised One resident, Naithram, raised the issue of private cars operating for hire. Naithram pointed out that the issue is hampering the hire car business. He was at the time representing Essequibo Minibus and Hire Car Association. He also complained about the prevalence of tinted vehicles on Essequibo Coast.

“The community has a vital role to play, they can help in raising youths; religious leaders can play their part; we all can do this to help in the prevention of crime”, Persaud noted.

Speaking under the social crime prevention programme, Persaud said efforts are being made to stamp out crime within communities with the GPF developing community security network, implementing Environmental Prevention Programme, forming youth programme through work force development, sport programme, as well as education programmes.

He said with all these programmes, youth groups can be formed so that youths would use the medium of sport to communicate and contribute positively to society.

He called for the coastal roadway to be widened, noting that it is too narrow for drivers. He said ranks are also breaking the law particularly when driving and being on mobile phones. Also he raised the issue of animals on the road many times obstructing traffic. That is of major concern, he concluded.

Persons also complained about the lack of police vehicles at Stations and said even if a vehicle is available there is often not sufficient gas.

Meanwhile, Commander of G Division (Essequibo Coast/Islands) Kevin Adonis said the meeting served to bring various communities together. He said persons would be enlightened of some of the plans of the GPF in relation to drug awareness programme.

In G Division, Adonis noted, many youth groups were formed in areas such as Darthmouth, Affiance, Lima Sands, and Marias Lodge. The Force in G Division is presently doing fund-raising activities to help in up-

grading the Affiance Sports Ground. A pavilion as well as a gym club will be constructed at Affiance by the Division.

Also twenty four persons

were trained in home economics and food nutrition at the Essequibo Technical Institute, compliments of G Division. Similar projects are expected to be execut-

ed at various community grounds within Region Two. Attending the meeting also was Region Two Chairman Devanand Ramdatt.

Berbice Expo and Trade Fair opens

“With all of the rice produced in Guyana, we still import rice cereals and despite the large quantities of coconuts grown here, Guyana still imports coconut milk and water” – Chamber President

By Andrew CArmiChAel

nder the theme:

U‘Fostering National Pride, Advancing National Progress’ the 11th annual Berbice Exposition (Berbice Expo) and Trade Fair was declared open on Friday evening by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo at the Albion Sports Complex, Corentyne.

The four-day affair which runs until September 21 is being staged to showcase Berbice businesses and, creating partnerships with Georgetown based entities.

The annual event is a joint venture of the Central Corentyne Chambers of Commerce (CCCC) and, the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of

Business which attracted 80 companies this year.

As patrons crowd the Albion Community Development Centre in this year’s trade fair, they are likely to encounter exhibitors of the best in goods and services from the county. The event will give businesses such as manufacturers, arts and craft producers, and the services sector the occasion to display their standard and quality of products and services.

There are both large and small businesses on display featuring craft, pottery, garments, furniture, food processing and agriculture. Among the large groups were Digicel, Nand Persaud Rice Mills, Guyana Sugar Corporation,

Comfort Sleep, Banks DIH Ltd, ANSA McAL Trading, Edward Beharry Group of Companies, E-Networks, Republic Bank, Demerara Bank, Berbice Bridge Company Inc, Citizens

expo site. I will take this message to my colleagues in the cabinet. I know that the Minister of Business heard you as well. I am hoping that our brothers and sisters in the Diaspora will

the rice produced in Guyana we still import rice cereals, and despite the large quantities of coconuts grown here, Guyana still imports coconut milk and water.

Region Six Chairman David Armogan in congratulating the CCCC for being able to host the Expo for the eleventh time noted that the trade fair allows exhibitors to showcase their products while giving consumers the opportunity to see what is on the market. This he said allows them to make informed choices.

He said Region Six is an agro-based region with rice and sugar being its main products but both are in some degree of difficulty, despite increases in production.

In delivering the feature address, Major General retired Norman McLean said there is a need for all Guyanese to have naturalness in all they do and more particularly in ensuring the environment wicket is kept clean. He noted Guyana needs to focus on sustain-

Bank, Assuria Insurance Company, Fibre Tech, J.R Trading Company.

Speaking at the opening ceremony Friday evening, Prime Minister Nagamootoo said promotions like the Berbice Expo and Trade Fair helps to showcase the energy and talent of Guyanese who want to help in the process of making the country better economically.

The Prime Minister in responding to an earlier request made by President of the CCCC Tajpaul Adjodhea, said he will be approaching Cabinet with the idea of establishing a permanent venue for Expositions in Berbice: “I hear you when you say that Berbice needs a permanent

be encouraged by you and your heroic efforts to return and invest in Berbice and to make this country a shining example of hard work and prosperity.”

Adjodhea had earlier called on the Prime Minister to make representation so that Berbice can have its own venue which will also be used for sport and indoor activities. He said the Expo provides the opportunity for businesses to meet, negotiate and network with companies and establishments as well as showcase their skills, talents and creative work.

“This annual event provides an ideal platform for importers, exporters, retailers and wholesalers.”

He noted that with all of

able development and find cheaper ways to produce energy. McLean recommends the use of solar power. “We can also use wind to generate power and the use of our own oil when we can produce it.” he said.

Business Minister Dominic Gaskin in brief remarks explained that the event allows for small businesses to gain access to a volume of customers which they may not have accessed in a year: “The Expo also boosts the Berbice economy because many exhibitors come from other parts of the country and utilise services, including hotel services in the Berbice.” Gates at Expo open at 16:00h daily and booths close at 23:30h.

THe

When Amerindian leadership is sidelined

Over the past few weeks, the issue of overt discrimination against Amerindians by this Government has been highlighted. Undeniably, the Indigenous Affairs Ministry has been traducing indigenous rights by undermining and ignoring legislation in vigour since the new administration took over.

Perhaps this "eye pass" stems from the inability of the new Ministers to obtain obviously much needed advice from their team of advisors who, initially, were presented to the Ministry staff as the “transition team”. But very soon, the transition was over and the “jobs for the boys” syndrome took over: APNU, AFC and APA partisans became "ministerial advisors", but, considering Allicock’s numerous subsequent blunders, advisors of what? While the former Amerindian Affairs Ministry was headed by one Minister, her advisor and a Permanent Secretary,

its ostentatiously renamed version was appointed one Minister, one junior Minister, three advisors, one Permanent Secretary and his newly assigned Deputy. At a minimum, the jejune performance of this newly appointed team isn’t deserving of the sacrificed comfort of the Ministry staff who are crammed claustrophically into the few offices of the Ministry to accommodate the swollen administration.

As Minister Allicock precipitated the termination of over 1976 staff without any attempt to engage them in discussions as befits an employer, he didn’t only prove that he could care less about the service they rendered to Amerindians, but showed that he was being strongly ill advised by his “transition team” turned advisors.

Reports suggest that the Minister is subject to external pressure of a political nature, causing the Ministry to succumb to a

power struggle between the AFC and APNU, explaining thus why there are Ministers and advisors from both camp. But if it is indeed true that there’s power play within the Ministry, it surely is at the expense of Amerindian leadership.

Take for instance the appointment of the PNC card carrying Permanent Secretary Vibert Welch, who found it necessary to appoint a Deputy Permanent Secretary in the person of Samantha Fedee, the former Principal Assistant Secretary (General) of the Ministry.

It is common knowledge that among the long serving Ministry staff who are eligible for the post of PS was Ms Jude Da Silva, the Ministry’s Programme Coordinator who was tasked with the oversight of all projects with the exception of the GRIF projects. Not only is she competent in the office, but she has solid field experience, and also,

she is a born Amerindian woman from Santa Rosa. Additionally, she was the most senior member of staff under the Permanent Secretary, though contracted, with a public service pay grade of 12, figuring just under the PS’ pay grade of 14.

Not only is she superior to Fedee on the public service pay grade system, she also largely surpasses Fedee in terms of responsibilities and experience, and previously managed the Ministry in the absence of the Permanent Secretary. Upon the previous PS’s resignation from Office, Da Silva was even assigned by Cabinet as official signatory pending the installation of a new PS. On the contrary, Samantha Fedee’s experience at the Ministry is limited to mere administrative duties which absolutely exclude any management of indigenous affairs.

Minister Allicock must explain to Amerindians

why an experienced senior Amerindian member of staff without any political connections, was sidelined so shamelessly to accommodate someone with barely if any experience, and who cannot even presume to represent them.

He must also indicate to the public, what was the rationale and process behind creating the new position of Deputy Permanent Secretary, since it isn’t provisioned for by the official organisational chart of the Ministry.

Further, the Government of Guyana, in upholding its promise for transparency, must present to the Amerindian peoples and all Guyanese, after having shortened a significant portion of their socioeconomic rights in a short span of time, the reasons necessitating the recruitment of a Deputy PS in an already shamefully bloated administration.

Finally, Minister

Allicock should recall that while he was a member of the APNU Opposition, he actively called for previous Permanent Secretary Nigel Dharamlall to be replaced by an Amerindian PS. Presumably because of the principle of "representation by presence". Now, both the Permanent Secretary and his Deputy are non-Amerindians, under Allicock’s mandate. Is Minister Allicock being illadvised, is he being pressured or has he simply chosen to betray his people? Time will tell.

(Please send question and comments to sundayarrow@gmail.com)

Govt using "political" REO's to subvert RDC's Chairmen

...democracy under attack – PPP

The David Grangerled Administration is being accused of violating the constitution by usurping powers bestowed on Regional Chairmen across the country, through their appointed Regional Executive Officers (REOs), particularly in the seven regions dominated by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C).

The PPP/C won Regions One, Two, Three, Five, Six, Eight and Nine at the May 11, 2015 General and Regional Elections, while the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC) coalition only managed to secure Regions Four, Seven and Ten.

In a media statement Saturday, the PPP/C said it has been notified of flagrant breaches of democracy by senior functionaries of the Granger-led Administration in the PPP/C controlled Regional Democratic Councils.

“Parks, the Regional Executive Officer in Region Five is leading the Council in an independent initiative into Regional actions on topical issues. Ramayya, Regional Executive Officer of Region Six, is independently using regional resources to implement actions not sanctioned by the Council,” the party complained.

It was further pointed out that the, “Regional Executive Officer at Region Two is now being urged to coordinate activities in Region Two in preparation for celebrat-

ing the 50th Anniversary of Independence. Ministers are reportedly visiting the Administrative Regions without observing the customary protocols and subverting the authority of the Council.”

Amid these breaches, the PPP/C made it clear the Regional Chairpersons have collectively agreed to maintain a solid line by insisting the resources to be spent in the Regions must be authorized by the respective Councils.

“Only then, the Chairpersons assert, would democracy at the lowest level be promoted and protected and the subversion of the authority of the elected Councils by the Granger Administration be averted,” the PPP/C said.

This is just one of the many allegations against transgressions the PPP/C has laid against the APNU/ AFC Government since it was narrowly defeated at the May 2015 Elections. The government has been accused of "witch-hunting", "ethnic cleansing" and politicising bureaucratic offices.

According to the Opposition, since the APNU/ AFC coalition gained executive power, there was no hesitation in their decision to sack Permanent Secretaries, Presidential Guards, Contract Workers, Media Workers, Chairmen and Members of State Boards, Diplomats and REOs.

Earlier this month, the PPP/C complained bit-

terly over a decision by Government to terminate the services of a number of REOs. Nigel Fisher – Region One (BarimaWaini); Ashford Ambedkar – Region Five (MahaicaBerbice); Paul Ramrattan – Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) and Yolanda Hiliman – Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) were served with letters of termination with effect from September 7 – having only being given less than one week’s notice. They were the second batch to be fired, although their contracts were set to expire in January, 2016.

According to a copy of the termination letters seen by Guyana Times, no reasons were given for the REOs’ removal. It just stated that “a decision was taken by management to terminate your contract of engagement”.

Prior to the dismissal of this batch, the Communities Ministry was already advertising for persons desirous of filling the posts of REOs. Their applications were to be submitted no later than July 31.

Government had already dismissed the REOs for Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) Donald Gagraj; Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Deolall Rooplall; Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) Ronald Harsaywack and Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) Claire Singh.

Government had sought to defend its action by claiming it needed more qualified persons to fill the posts, “given the complexity of managing five sectors within the region”.

In addition to the REOs, the Government has fired former Permanent Secretary Colin Croal of the Local Government Ministry; former Permanent Secretary of the Amerindian Affairs Ministry, Nigel Dharamlall; Guyana Power and Light Inc Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Bharat Dindyal; Guyana Water Inc CEO Shaik Baksh; Guyana Sugar Corporation CEO, Dr Raj Singh and all its Directors Geeta Singh-Knight, Shaik Baksh, Badrie Persaud, Keith Burrowes and Dindyal Permaul; former Local Government Minister Clinton Collymore; Director of the Child Care and Protection Agency Anne Green; acting Town Clerk Carol Sooba; Information Liaison Officers Kwame McCoy and Zulfikar Mustapha; among many others. (smarshall@guyanatimesgy.com)

Essequibo businessman loses $$$ as truck topples with tons of cement

By IndrawattIe natram

AHardware store businessman from Cotton Field, on the Essequibo Coast, is counting thousands of dollars in losses as a trucking transporting tons of cement toppled in a trench at La Union. The incident occurred around 08:30h Saturday morning.

According to information reaching Guyana Times , the truck was contracted by businessman Rakesh Samaroo from Builder’s Hardware to transport a quantity of cement. The truck is owned by a private individual form Adventure. As the truck was making its way

to the businessman’s bond at Cotton Field, the driver reportedly lost control and toppled into a nearby trench. Fortunately, no one was injured during the mishap.

According to a resident of La Union, he heard the impact of the truck and as he looked over the road, he saw the truck in the trench. He said that many persons converged at the scene and assisted the driver out.

Samaroo reportedly arrived on the scene a short while after with other trucks in an attempt to offload the cement from the truck in the trench.

The truck was transporting approximately 350 sacks of cement when the

mishap occurred. When Guyana Times visited the scene, the businessman refused to speak with the media. He appeared very agitated and worried over the loss incurred.

The driver along with other employees were observed assisting in the offloading process. A few sacks of the cement were damaged, however, the majority were saved due to prompt action by residents and the businessman. The truck’s chassis along with other parts were damaged. Builders Hardware and General Store is the main supplier for cement and other hardware materials on the Essequibo Coast.

Commissioner Singh warns defaulters in the forestry industry

“

It might take a while, but we will catch you,” Commissioner of Forests James Singh said as he sent out a stern warning to defaulters operating within the forestry sector, particularly those engaged in logging operations.

The Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) is responsible for the administration and management of all State Forest Land in Guyana. Therefore, it is responsible for the overseeing of all forestry concessions from initial granting to monitoring and reinforcement.

Commissioner Singh said that though there are established Code of Practices for Small Operators, Timber Sales Agreement and Wood Cutting Leases, among others, which are in keeping with international environ-

mental best practices like the International Tropical Timber Organisation, there are still breaches within the system.

“Yes there are beaches, but when there are beaches the system is so strong and robust that it is able to detect these breaches…As I always tell stakeholders, a piece of lumber is not something you can hide in your pocket, you will get caught. It might take a while but you will get caught.”

Due to the rigid systems in place, Commissioner Singh said that for decades Guyana has been able to maintain an extremely low deforestation rate.

“Even though we have been logging in Guyana for decades, our rate of deforestation is still maybe the lowest in the world. We have intact forest cover of over 99 per cent. Our rate of deforestation, as calculated by Rapideye Satellite Imagery at 5m resolution for the entire country, was 0.079 per cent in 2012 and 0.0685 in 2013. Less than one per cent,” he explained. He said this is testimony that Guyana has been utilising its forest resources in a very environmentally friendly way. (smarshall@ guyanatimesgy.com)

Cop killer identified as ECD resident

Several hours after fatally stabbing Police Constable Antonio Dawson and taking his own life afterwards, the attacker from Friday’s incident was positively identified as Samuel Fredrick James of Buxton, East Coast Demerara.

Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum confirmed to Guyana Times that the man was identified late Friday night by relatives. However, sources at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) disclosed that James, 41, also goes by the alias of Fredo Thomas Junior. His address was given to authorities as 47 Buxton Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara.

session. According to Police, varying quantities of cocaine, marijuana and ecstasy were found in his pants pockets. The knife that was used during the incident was also recovered by the Police.

sustained wounds to his neck, chest and abdomen.

Upon seeing the Constable collapsed, James subsequently turned the knife on himself, stabbing his chest once before slashing his throat. The injured rank was picked up and rushed to GPHC by colleagues. He was immediately taken into theater but succumbed to his injuries during surgery. James was also taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Mother pleads for return of missing 14-year-old daughter

The man’s body is at GPHC’s mortuary, awaiting post-mortem examination. This newspaper was made to understand that James was a drug addict and usually found himself in petty trouble as a result of his behaviour. He was reportedly charged back in 2005 with robbery under arms. Efforts made by this publication to contact the family and relatives of James proved futile.

According to reports, around 09:45h on Friday, ranks on marine patrol in the Demerara River received information and confronted James at the Gafoors Wharf in Houston. The man refused to undergo a search and brandished a knife at officers, as such back-up requested and a team from Impact Base arrived on the scene, including Constable Dawson.

Following the incident, the police had unearthed a quantity of narcotics in his pos-

The ranks then proceeded to approached James. Dawson, who had handed his weapon over to his colleague, confronted the man and during a scuffle, Adams stabbed the officer at least five times to his upper body. The officer

The 28-year-old Constable was the fourth of six children of his parents Neville and Yvonne Dawson who live at Murphy Street, Wales, West Bank Demerara. Antonio leaves to mourn his two children: one-year-old son and sixyear-old daughter, as well as their mother with whom he used to live on the East Coast Demerara. (vahnum@guyanatimesgy.com)

GTT hosts successful Mobile Fair –

launches “Smart Talk Bundles” promotion

The Guyana Telephone Telegraph Company Limited (GTT), as part of its “Do More” campaign, successful hosted a mobile fair in front of the Fogarty’s Building, Water Street, Georgetown on Saturday.

The Mobile Fair started at 09:00h and ended at 15:00h, which saw hundreds of customers benefiting from great deals during the promotion.

Hilton Wong, one of the Marketing Representatives at the telephone giant, explained that the idea of the fair was to meet customers who do not find the time to visit the stores nationwide. He stated that the fair is more or less showcasing the great deals that are offered to customers by the telephone company.

Wong stated that once customers purchase a handset, they will receive one free month data among other benefits. He reiterated that the handsets are all smart phones and come with facebook, whatsapp and other interesting features.

The representative stated that GTT has received an

overwhelming support from the public. He iterated that this is only one aspect of the new campaign, while noting that if it means going from “house to house” to meet customers, they are ready to go that extra mile. He encouraged persons to take advantage of the fairs that will be done in their respective areas.

Meanwhile, GTT pre-paid mobile customers will be able to do more talking and texting with a new promotion called “Smart Talk Bundles”. This is one of the many offers to be afforded to customers as part of the company’s promise to “Do More”.

The packages are offered in one-day, three-days and one-week bundles, and the minutes can be used for all networks in Guyana including Digicel, as well as calls to the United States and Canada.

Smart Talk Bundles will allow customers to purchase fixed amounts of minutes and SMS (short message service) packages at extremely affordable rates. Customers can save up to 50 per cent, versus

Members of the public being attended to by GTT staff at the Mobile Fair on Saturday

the pay per use rates by purchasing the bundles.

At the launch, Chief Commercial Officer Gert Post stated that the new affordable services for the customer is all part of the “Do More” strategy that the company recently announced. “Not only are we doing more for our customers by launching these new bundles, but customers will be able to do more on our network. They can talk more,

text more and save more,” he stated.

To subscribe for the bundles, customers should text ST1D, ST3D or ST7D to 6201212, at prices as low as $180. Customers who subscribe to the Smart Talk Bundle will be charged from their allotted bundle first. Charges to their other balances will be made on depletion or expiration of their bundle. (bhisham@guyanatimesgy.com)

CJIA to train 43 ASOs in self defence

As a precautionary measure against possible threats existing, several members of the security unit attached to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) will be undergoing a self-defence training programme.

Some 43 officers were identified for training, which requires technical, professional and physical know-how in the area of martial arts as defence against any threat. This is the second year an exercise of this nature will be conducted, with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) facilitating the training.

The first batch, which comprised 13 Aviation Security Officers (ASOs), is currently being taught the various takedown methods and tactics to neutralise armed assailants over a six-day period.

Training for the other two

Missing, Intia Boodram

The mother of missing 14-year-old Intia Boodram, who was last seen at her Lot 12 Supply, East Bank Demerara (EBD) home on Wednesday at around 12:00h, is pleading for her safe return as she expressed fears her child might have been taken against her will. The teenager was last seen wearing a grey vest and blue pants. Intia is a fourth form student at the Institute of Professional Education (IPE).

In an interview with her distraught mother Indira Boodram, it was disclosed that the family suspects she is being held against her will, however, the details surrounding her disappearance are sketchy. So far, the Police have apprehended three men for questioning into her disappearance, one of whom admitted to transporting the teenager to Georgetown on the day she went missing.

The mother stated it is un-

usual for her daughter to leave home without informing someone and as such, her disappearance comes as a shock. She revealed that the teenager has been acting quite strange over the past three weeks and on the day of her disappearance, they discovered she had left three letters stating that she would return in a month with money, houses and cars.

“She left a letter saying ‘Mommy I’m sorry for what I put you through…I’m leaving this home with my head down and my hands together. Don’t inform the Police, I’m not a bad person’,” the distraught woman explained.

She revealed that the Police apprehended one young man who admitted to accompanying the teenager to the Stabroek Market Stelling but he claimed he did not see whether or not she entered a boat. She further revealed that sometime after the young man was arrested, she received a call from her daughter, but she said the teen sounded as if she was afraid. She also explained that there is a gang of men in Supply, EBD, with whom the young man is affiliated, that she suspects might have had a part in her daughter’s disappearance.

The Police are investigating the matter. Anyone with information regarding the location of the missing teen is asked to call telephone numbers 697-1814, 687-3462, 6634429 or the nearest Police station. (areefab@guyanatimesgy.com)

Police probing gang fight at Camp St Prison

Investigators are conducting a probe at the Camp Street Prison following a gang fight on Friday night which left a 19-year-old inmate nursing several stab wounds about his body.

According to Head of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Wendell Blanhum, the investigations are ongoing. The Crime Chief noted that investigators are in the process of obtaining statements from Prison authorities as well as inmates to ascertain what transpired on Friday night.

“After we complete our investigations, we will do a report and send it for legal advice,” Blanhum noted. Asked whether Police was able to gather any information about who the perpetrator was, the Crime Chief said they are still trying to put the pieces together.

Around 21:00h on Friday, chaos broke out at the Camp Street Prison. Guyana Times understands a fight broke out between two gangs during which Romel Ross, 19, of Agricola, Greater Georgetown, was stabbed several times about his body.

He was rushed to Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was treated. The injuries were not fatal.

However, during the com-

motion at the prison following the fight, the inmates set a mattress afire. Quick response by the Guyana Fire Service saw two fire tenders arriving to aid the Prison Service’s tender. The fire was reportedly set at the John Street side of the prison.

The fire fighters were forced to pass the water hose through a hole on the eastern fence in order to put out the small blaze which was contained to one cell.

According to information reaching Guyana Times, the brawl erupted between two prisoners from Agricola and East Ruimveldt, who are reportedly at odds over two recent killings. The injured prisoner was reportedly attacked before Friday’s incident.

This newspaper was told that the situation was under control and that prisoners from the eastern end of the penitentiary were relocated. When contacted on Saturday to clarify details of the incident, Director of Prisons Welton Trotz informed this newspaper he was out of town and directed this publication to the Deputy Director. However, efforts to reach Deputy Kyle Graham were futile.

Bishoo, Barnwell inducted as Digicel Brand Ambassadors

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

Digicel (Guyana) has inducted top Guyana and West Indies cricketers Devendra Bishoo and Christopher Barnwell as Brand Ambassadors following a simple signing ceremony on Friday at the company’s main office in Kingston.

Leg-spinner Bishoo’s contract as a Brand Ambassador was renewed, while all-rounder Barnwell is onboard with the telecommunication company for the first time.

Advertising Manager of Digicel, Ramesh Rupchand, outlined what is expected of the two cricketers during their tenure with the Bigger, Better Network.

“Basically they’re going to be featured in campaigns. We’re going to use them for interviews on social media, billboards and so on,” Rupchand highlighted.

He added, “As part of our agreement with them, we have thrown out to these guys that they need to do community projects, so as part of the contract they need to come up with

community projects where we would be able to develop youths, charities…they choose, they come to us and we help them with those projects.”

Both cricketers, who are

part of the Guyana Jaguars training camp ahead of the second installment of the West Indies Cricket Board’s Professional Cricket League Four-day tournament, expressed elation at being af-

forded the opportunity to represent the company. They promised to make the entity proud, both on and off the cricket field.

The 29-year-old Bishoo has appeared in 13 Tests and similar number of ODIs, while he has also featured in four T20 Internationals for the West Indies. The Albion cricketer has picked up 50 Test wickets at 37.42; 20 in ODIs at 23.80 and six in T20s at an economy rate of 6.25.

In a First-Class career, which started in 2008, Bishoo, the ICC Emerging Player-of-the-Year 2011, has bagged 285 wickets from 65 matches, at an average of 25.89. He has picked up 17 five-wicket hauls and three 10-wicket match figures.

He is only of two Guyanese- opener Rajendra Chandrika being the otherwho has been selected for the West Indies tour of Sri

Lanka, starting early next month.

Barnwell, the Demerara Cricket Club all-rounder, has played in six T20 Internationals, amassing 78 runs at a strike rate of 125.

The nagging mediumpacer and destructive middle-order batsman, who was drafted in the Indian Premier League’s side Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2013, but did not play a game, has been a regular feature on Guyana teams at the region level, especially in limited-over cricket.

While he is touted as better suited to the shorter versions of the game, the belligerent cricketer cracked his maiden FirstClass hundred last season.

In 35 First-Class games, he has accumulated 1,330 runs at an average of 23.33, and has picked up 50 wickets at 38.16. (aramzan@ guyanatimesgy.com)

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evin Imlach’s superb form in local cricket continued as the Guyana Under-19 batsman notched up yet another halfcentury, hitting a classy 76 not out to lead the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) to a comfortable five-wicket victory over Police in the NBS Second Division 40-over cricket competition.

Chasing 208 for victory on Saturday, DCC reached 211-5 with 5.1 overs remaining. Imlach, who was recently selected by the West Indies Under-19 side for encampment, stroked seven fours and thumped four sixes for the Queenstown side.

Former national Under-15 player Raymond Perez supported with a well-constructed 56 (7x4s, 1x6), while Sherfane Rutherford chipped in with an aggressive 23 (3x4s, 1x6). Bowling for the law men, Kelvin Leitch took 2-39 off eight overs.

Batting first, Leitch again led the way for Police with 41 (3x4s, 2x6s) and Rocky Hutson late innings burst of 38 (4x4s, 2x6s) helped his side reach 207 all out from 39.4 overs. Dennis Squires 3-44 (8) and Rutherford 2-38 (8) were the main wicket takers for DCC.

At the Maltenoes Sports Club, Everest whipped the home side by 71 runs. Batting first, the Camp road side made 202 all out from 39.4 overs. All-rounder Akshaya Persaud led the way with 48 (4x4s, 4x6s) and Malcom Hubberd scored 28 (1x4, 2x6s), as extras contributed 31.

Shaquille Mosely 4-41(8) and Steven Sankar 2-38 (8) were the leading wicket takers for Malteenoes. In response, Malteenoes’ Joel Allyne (51) and Kefa Naughton (30) were the main scorers for the

Thomas Land team, who folded for 131 in 32 overs.

Malteenoes lost their way in the middle overs, as Persaud returned with the ball to take 4-29. In the other second division game, GNIC schooled the St Stanislaus College side as they won by 103 runs.

Batting first, GNIC made 210 all out from 31.2 overs with Kurt Lovell making 43 (7x4s) and Andrew Chung (5x4s) leading the way.

A. Ali took 5-61 (6.2 overs) for the students. In response, the St Stanislaus boys were bundled out for 107 from 24 overs with A. Ali’s 32 being the only notable contribution.

Carib Beer T20

Meanwhile, in the Carib Beer First Division T20 competition on Saturday, Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) and GNIC recorded victories.

Playing at the famous GCC ground, Bourda, GNIC took on GDF in sweltering heat on flat pitch. GDF struggled to 96-6 from their allocated 20 overs, as tight bowling by the GNIC kept them in check.

Leon Andrews 38 (36b, 4x4s, 1x6) was the most successful batsman for the soldiers. The father–son combination of Clyde Butts 2-13 (4)

and Collis Butts 2-13 (4) did the damage with the ball for the Woolford Avenue team.

In reply, a quick-fire 36 (1x4, 2x6s) from 28 balls by West Indies and Guyana batsman Assad Fudadin got the GNIC side to victory at 100-5 with 3.5 overs to spare.

Left-arm seamer Ravi Persaud 2-17 (4) was the most successful bowler, as his side leaked 20 runs in extras in the low-scoring affair.

In the other game, University of Guyana (UG) took first strike against the GCC and crumbled to 64 all out from 18.4 overs with Leon Williams top scoring with 16. National Under-19 player Ronaldo Ali-Mohammed led the destruction with 3-4 from 1.4 overs.

Guyana Jaguars franchise player Raymon Reifer chipped in with 3-18 with his left-arm medium pace. With just 62 needed for victory, GCC got the required runs with little fuss as Robin Bacchus 31 (2x4s, 1x6) powered the home side to victory with eight wickets in hand and 7.5 overs to spare.

Action continues today in the second division competition with MYO facing Ace Warriors at GNIC ground and GCC going up against GYO at Bourda. (akeemg@guyanatimesgy.com)

Amerindian Heritage Month sport…

Teams showcase skills on eventful first day

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

The Everest Cricket Club ground on Camp Road was transformed into a colourful spectacle beyond the boundary, while the on-field action was fierce among male and female teams of the 10 administrative regions of Guyana at the annual Amerindian Heritage Month sport activity.

Villagers of the various Amerindian settlements journeyed to the city to throw support behind their respective teams in the disciplines of volleyball, cricket and football.

The volleyball competition attracted seven female teams and nine female teams, and after some heated matches on Saturday, the semi-finalists of both categories have been decided.

Those semi-finals will take place today, with St Cuthbert’s Mission (Region Four) playing Orealla/

Siparuta (Region Six) and Region One against North Rupununi (Region Nine) in the female division.

In male volleyball, the semi-finals will see Orealla/ Siparuta (Region Six) facing North Rupununi (Region Nine) and Central Rupununi (Region Nine) tackling Region Two United.

The female cricket competition attracted 10 teams, and after the completion of four games on Saturday, Muritaro, St Cuthbert’s Mission, Region Two United and Swann have made it through to the next round.

Laluni and Wiruni will play each other this morning in the final playoff match to decide the other team to advance to the next phase of the competition.

The semi-finalists for the male cricket tournament were also decided on Saturday afternoon. Still in with a chance of lifting the title today are defending cham-

pions Laluni (Region Four) and Mahdia (Region Eight), who will meet in semi-final one, and Region Two United and Campbelltown (Region Eight) in semi-final two. Earlier in the quarter-finals, Mahdia (78-5) beat St Cuthbert’s Mission (75-6) by five wickets; Region Two United (78-1) beat Orealla/ Siparuta (74-5) by nine wickets; Laluni (88-5) beat Maraikobai (59-4) by 29 runs; and Campbelltown (71-2) beat Santa Aratak (69-4) by eight wickets. Up to press time, rivalry in the football competition was still ongoing under floodlights. All the category finals will be completed today at the same venue, starting at 08:30h.

Simultaneously today, the National Aquatic Centre will come alive with the various villages participating for the first time in competitive swimming and archery, commencing at 09:00h.

Pele register first win of Stag Elite League

–

Alpha, Slingerz play to tame draw

By TreisTon Joseph

Pele FC played to a tough 2-1 win over the Georgetown Football Club (GFC), while Alpha United and Sligerz FC managed a tame draw when the Stag Elite League kicked off on Friday evening at the National Track and Field Centre at Leonora.

At the opening ceremony, which took place between two games of the double-header, Chairman of the Normalisation Committee, Clinton Urling, noted that the League will be part of the development of Guyana’s football.

He thanked the League’s main sponsors Ansa McAl Trading, as well as other partners Courts Guyana Inc. and E-Networks for their support.

Minister within the Ministry of Education with responsibility for sport, Nicolette Henry, was keen

to note that the government is open-minded towards the development of sport, and is committed to working with the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) to improve Guyana’s football.

Meanwhile, the first game set the tone for the night’s action, as Pele came out in attack mode against a surprisingly timid GFC side.

With Gregory “Jackie Chan” Richardson and Travis “Zorro” Grant back

in the line-up, Pele clearly had a pep in their step as their ball passing seemed crisp in the opening exchanges that produced some threatening moments.

Pele made no mistake in the 38th minute when Deon Alfred received a cross from the left flank and released a powerful right footer that struck the back of the net as the half played out with Pele leading 1-0.

On resumption of the second period, another Pele attack led to a corner kick

Sport medicine seminar held in Berbice

that Jumane Somerset easily headed into the goal for a 2-0 Pele lead in the 48th minute.

Nevertheless, GFC, who never really got their offence in full flow, were awarded a free kick from approximately 30 yards out that Lennox Cort somehow netted in the 88th minute after the shot evaded all the defenders to hit the crossbar before heading into the goal.

In the second game of the evening, Alpha United and Slingerz FC played to a tame draw in the much anticipated fixture. Slingerz were easily the aggressors during the game, while Alpha attacked on the counter.

While both teams had their chances, a number of wayward finishes in and around the 18-yard box was the order of the night.

Both teams walked away with one point each from the fixture. Pele lead the table with three points following their win. (josepht@guyanatimesgy. com)

The Guyana Physical Therapy in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health and the Department of Sport in Region Six on Friday last hosted a Sport Medicine Seminar at the Regional Democratic Office in New Amsterdam.

There were over 20 coaches in attendance from across Region Six and from various sporting disciplines.

In her welcome remarks, Ariane Mangar, President of the Guyana Physical Therapy Association, said that Physical Therapists have a key role in helping people with long-term conditions to achieve their goals, fulfil their potential and participate fully in society and sport.

The first sport medicine seminar was held in

Georgetown last year, and with the aim of ensuring that their message is not centralised, the association journeyed the Ancient County.

Regional Chairman David Armoogan, who was invited to give the seminar’s opening remarks, highlighted the importance of Physical Therapy, and the knowledge of sport medicine for coaches, since the world is evolving, and sport is becoming more commercialised where successful sportsmen and women are now paid more for plying their trade.

Presenters for the sport medicine seminar were Akil Raghunandan, Beverly Nelson, Melissa Corlette, Jason Johnny, Ariane Mangar and Abigail Caled.

By Rajiv Bisnauth

TNational Cricket League to benefit Guyana − Crandon Fudadin targets international comeback

– says consistency key during upcoming PCL

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Discarded West Indies middle-order batsman, Assad Fudadin, is targeting the forthcoming West Indies Cricket Board’s (WICB) Professional Cricket League (PCL) Four-day tournament as the benchmark to get back into the Test team.

Fudadin has played three Tests for West Indiesagainst New Zealand and England in 2012- making 122 runs in five innings with one half-century.

However, the 30-yearold told Guyana Times Sport during an exclusive interview that consistency is the watchword during the upcoming PCL tournament.

“For this season, I am trying to work on my game, to get some runs, so I can get back into the West Indies set-up,” Fudadin said.

The left-handed batsman had replaced the injured Darren Bravo during West Indies’ tour of South Africa last December, but was subsequently ruled out after he fractured the little finger on his right hand in the warm-ups on the opening morning of the first Test in Pretoria.

Fudadin has since been overlooked by the Regional selectors for the England and Australia tours recently, and also the West Indies away series to Sri Lanka next month.

“I am not disheartened by not making the West Indies squads of recent; I know it’s just a matter of time to get back there, but I have to focus on what’s im-

he Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) in the very near future will be launching its new National Cricket League, and Head Coach of the Guyana Jaguars, Esaun Crandon, was unequivocal in stressing that the game locally will benefit immensely from such an initiative.

“I think it’s the way forward as it pertains to the cricket and I welcome it,” he told Guyana Times Sport on Saturday.

Crandon, the former Guyana fast bowler, said the individual ability of cricketers and ultimately the quality of the game locally will improve once players are exposed to a sustained professional set-up.

“It will bring a lot more competition; obviously it will give us the opportunity to look at more players because it will be eight teams from the length and breadth of Guyana. It will give a lot more players an opportunity to go out and perform and showcase their talent,

and I think we are heading into the right direction when it comes to development, but at the end of the day it will take some sort of funding, so it will be nice if corporate Guyana can assist,” Crandon, who has 90 wickets from 38 First-Class matches from 2000 to 2011, pointed out.

The 33-year-old added, “Definitely I see that as a positive to Guyana cricket going forward. We will be able to produce more players and those guys who are not in training with the contract-

ed players will know what it takes to be in the professional set-up, so it is something good going forward.”

Meanwhile, Secretary of the GCB, Anand Sanasie, confirmed to another section of the media that the National Cricket League will supercede the traditional Inter-county tournament.

Sanasie opined that the League will be of the highest standard, and will see most of the country’s top players being in action on a regular basis.

He mentioned that the

idea, which was in the making for almost two years, will feature eight teams from across the three countiesDemerara Essequibo and Berbice.

A Director of the West Indies Cricket Board, Sanasie further mentioned that the National Cricket League will consist of all three formats of the game. Sanasie indicated that the League is expected to bowl off sometime before the upcoming Regional Four-day tournament or when the first few rounds culminate ahead of their break where players switch gears in order to prepare for the Nagico Regional Super50.

He explained that works are ongoing to ensure that the League bowls off with some 50-over matches to help the players better adjust for the Super50 tournament.

He also he said the League will serve as a preparatory reservoir ahead of major tournaments such as Caribbean Premier League and the other regional fixtures.

(rajivb@guyanatimesgy.com)

portant and the things that you need to continually keep doing, which is to keep performing,” Fudadin said.

The left-hander said he is looking forward to the PCL, and is keen on achieving the goals he has set himself.

“I have high expectations of myself for the upcoming PCL. My game is at its peak right now, so I am confident in doing well,” he said.

“My aim is to put up a consistent performance every time in order to contribute to the success of the team.”

Fudadin further pointed out that training ahead of the PCL has been intense.

“With the contracted system, we have to train four times a week so it’s very good. In terms of preparation wise, we have been training a lot, doing a lot of physicals, so the whole contracted system is very good,” he explained.

With four centuries and 20 fifties from 78 First-Class matches, Fudadin is among the 15 contracted players signed by Cricket Guyana Inc. (CGI).

The others are: Christopher Barnwell, Anthony Bramble, Paul Wintz, Raymon Reifer, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Shimron Hetymer, Ronsford Beaton, Keon Joseph, Rajendra Chandrika, Vishaul Singh, Javon Searles and Kandasammy Surujnarine.

The second edition of the PCL begins on November 6. (rajivb@guyanatimesgy. com)

By

ele FC played to a tough 2-1 win over the Georgetown Football Club (GFC), while Alpha United and Sligerz FC managed a tame draw when the Stag Elite League kicked

Track and Field Centre at Leonora. At the opening ceremony, which took place between two games of the double-header, Chairman of the Normalisation Committee, Clinton Urling, noted that the League will be part of the development of Guyana’s football. see ful story on page 22