Guyana Times November 2, 2014

“Homecoming Guyana” planned for major cities Soldiers briefed on Ebola spread, Guyana’s preparedness President: Parliament to be reconvened in 14 days

Weather: Thundery showers can be expected in the morning, with sunny weather otherwise prevailing. Thunderstorms are expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly at 3.12 to 2.23 metres per second.

High

Jagdeo to address International Tropical Timber Council in Japan

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo, one of the world’s leading climate campaigners, has been invited to address the 50th International Tropical Timber Council (ITTC) Session that will be held in Yokohama, Japan, November 3-8.

The event is being held to commemorate the International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO) governing body’s 50th anniversary. Delegates from 68 ITTO member countries and the European Union will participate in the session of the council first convened in Geneva in 1985/86. Jagdeo, who was asked to be the Guest Speaker by the ITTO, has continued his re-

lentless push for climate change to be seriously tackled by countries of the world collectively in an equitable manner and economically sustainable manner.

The former President,

“Homecoming

who received the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Champion of the Earth Prize a few years ago, recently said that in spite of promises made, a study by the World Bank puts the globe on track for a fourdegree rise in temperature which will result in parts of the world being inundated as the threats of climate change occur.

ITTO was established under the International Tropical Timber Agreement of 1983 negotiated by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in order to promote the sustainable management of tropical forests and trade in sustainably

produced tropical forest products.”

The council session will mainly discuss sustainable management of tropical forests and tropical timber trade. It will also deliberate on the election of the new Executive Director of ITTO, consideration and approval of the projects to be supported, ITTO Biennial Work Programme (20152016), report on the Joint ITTO-CBD Collaborative Initiative for Tropical Forest Biodiversity, report on developments in UNFCCC regarding forests, report on enhancing cooperation between ITTO and CITES, revision of ITTO Staff Regulations and Rules, etc.

Guyana” planned for major cities

Over the years, Guyana has been experiencing a severe braindrain as numerous Guyanese flee the country for better opportunities abroad.

Conversely, over the past few years, Guyana has been experiencing encouraging growth in the tourism industry.

At the launch of Tourism Awareness Month 2014 on Friday evening, great emphasis was placed on the vast potential of Guyana, both on the local and international markets.

The 20th Tourism Awareness Month was launched under the theme “Tourism, Entrepreneurs and Ambassadors Mobilise”, in other words “TEAM”.

Speaking at the launch, acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali announced plans to bring back at least 100,000

(10 per cent) of overseasbased Guyanese to Guyana to enjoy all that the country has to offer, changing the “brain-drain” to a “brain gain”.

He said the Private Sector can benefit from the

is collaborating with airlines and the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) to develop a strategic homecoming campaign.

The plan is to launch Homecoming Guyana in all major capitals around the world where there is a significant Guyanese population.

This programme is expected to boost the nation’s economy and allow for hotels, restaurants, and other businesses to gain revenue.

For the past five years, the Private Sector has invested over $112 billion in the tourism industry and the outcome has proven to be promising.

Minister Ali announced that eco-lodges are already

part of the tourism experience and can also enjoy the similar experience that foreigners do when they come here,” Minister Ali said.

The Minister also said there is need for infrastructure and an environment which meet international standards to attract tourists.

Private Sector Commission Chairman Ramesh Persaud noted that Guyana has many unexplored business opportunities, particularly in the tourism industry.

THAG President Shaun McGrath also highlighted that tourism is well and alive in Guyana, contrary to what many Guyanese believe. Guyanese were urged to remember that Guyana has unique products to offer.

income expected to be generated from this initiative.

The Tourism Ministry

booked for up to 2016.

“It is important for us to ensure that all Guyanese are

They were encouraged to be proud of the country and to share it with the world.

Editor: Tajeram Mohabir

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

APNUAFC coalition

David Granger, Leader of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), confirmed at the party’s weekly press conference that coalition talks are in motion between APNU and the Alliance For Change (AFC). Reports of these negotiations between the two entities, which form the Parliamentary Opposition while holding a one-seat majority, surfaced earlier in the week but were stoutly (and scatologically) denied by the leader of the AFC, Khemraj Ramjattan.

This denial is only the latest in a long string of insults, implicit and explicit, that the AFC has directed towards its larger parliamentary partner. Earlier in the year, the AFC Leader made the astounding claim that he had proof of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) offering $30 million to each of three “Opposition MPs”.

Since he denied that the bribe-susceptible MPs were from his party, the inescapable conclusion was they were APNU’s. This raised the ire of Mr Granger and other APNU leaders, since Mr Ramjattan refused to identify the three individuals and cast a cloud on the integrity of their entire 26MP contingent.

The minuscule AFC also irritated its larger partner by not recognising the disequilibrium in size might have engendered in APNU an expectation that it ought at a minimum be consulted when the AFC staked out positions that necessitated APNU’s acquiescence. One example was the “No-Confidence” Motion which they introduced in Parliament. This left very little wriggle room for APNU and signalled to its electoral base that the AFC, which covets that base, was seizing the initiative.

While even APNU has, understandably, been quite tight-lipped on the talks, the AFC’s outright denial of their existence has brought to the fore once again, the question of that party’s electoral strategy.

One political commentator, Tacuma Ogunseye, not unfriendly to APNU since he is a member of ACDA, which works within the PNC’s “traditional constituency”, attempted to interrogate the AFC’s “hold me, loose me” stance with APNU.

He observed bluntly, “...the AFC’s often stated reluctance to enter into a more cosy relationship with APNU is rooted in the belief that they run the risk of alienating their Indian support base because they will be presumed to be joining with an African dominated party to get rid of an Indian party and Government.”

In fact, Ogunseye revealed that the AFC’s long drawn out agonising over whether to bring the No-Confidence Motion or not to Parliament, floated since June of this year, was occasioned by their canvassing of their Indian supporters in Berbice. Since a successful No-Confidence Vote would mean the AFC would have removed, in the words of Ogunseye, “an Indian Government” through voting with an African party, the AFC would have been concerned about the effect of that possibility on their support.

The fact that they are now insisting on rushing to have the motion approved, means that they have calculated the negative fallout will not be as debilitating as once been feared. But this raises question as to why the present reluctance by the AFC to admit that they are in coalition talks with APNU?

In a response to Ogunseye, the treasurer of the AFC admits that their precipitation of an election does not mean they have calculated their support will be increased by a factor of seven to win any subsequent elections. Therefore, the refusal to admit they are making a rational choice to enter a coalition with APNU has to be based on some other ground.

Most likely, it has to do with dividing the spoils the two parties believe to be within their grasp. If history is any guide, the AFC leaders are making unrealistic demands. As with their No-Confidence Motion, they believe they have the APNU, between a rock and a hard place.

But since they crave power, they know if they do not coalesce, they face oblivion. Expect an APNU-AFC coalition.

Hypocrisy and double standards of lawyers associations

Dear Editor, The Guyana Bar Association/Guyana Association of Women Lawyers (GBA/GAWL) never fail to amaze me. True to form, they have called for the resignation of the Attorney General (AG) over an illegal recording of a private conversation which, according to the AG, was manipulated and distorted.

However, what I find to be extraordinary is the fact that none of these selfanointed paragons will ever be able to the face the public if some of their private conversations were ever made public without their permission.

I am not a lawyer, but I do know that persons must be able to speak freely in their private conversations and are not publicly answerable for those private con-

versations, if they are made public, unless of course a crime is committed in those conversations.

The current matter is with the Police. As far as I am aware the GBA/GAWL never sought an audience with the AG. Also, the very matter is before the Court by proceedings filed by the AG. The AG in on record as saying that the conversation was distorted and manipulated.

In those circumstances, by what legal principle did the GBA/GAWL make its findings and draw its conclusions. This mad rush to judgment without any due process is not only wrong, but reeks of an ulterior design. This can easily be discerned if a few incidents are recalled.

The public witnessed no reaction when an ex-

plosive recording between Member of Parliament Basil Williams and then Commissioner of Police Winston Felix was aired.

Based upon that recording, the then Commissioner of Police was heard to be planning, to commit, serious offences.

No resignation was called for by the GBA/GAWL either from the Commissioner or Mr Williams, a lawyer. There was also silence to the numerous legal and ethical dilemmas that Nigel Hughes found himself in.

For example, the removal of a surveillance tape from a murder scene, a vital bit of evidence, then delivering it later to the Police, and the accusation of jury tampering in the Lusignan massacre where 11 people were killed, just to name a few.

I believe that when the

Justice must be allowed to take

Dear Editor, It would be useful for anyone in authority to prove me wrong in my opinion of there being no provision whatsoever in the law that allows for the Police to make settlement in any criminal matter when the proper forum to do so is at the courts.

But the presumptuous practice which needs to be addressed in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) is obviously linked to some form of benefit or reward which in itself is contrary to the regulations governing the force.

Quite manifestly, Police settlements deprive the state from deriving revenue from monetary court penalties ever so helpful for the development of the country and can be seen as a way out to pervert the course of justice.

From my own knowledge,

during last week a detective (name given) effected a settlement for $60,000 which was accepted by the victim (name given) who was beaten with a piece of wood into a state of unconsciousness for some 45 minutes and from a medical examination was admitted a patient at the Suddie Hospital where he spent just 24 hours.

According to the victim, the incident occurred on September 21, last when a report was made at the Suddie Police Station the same day and subsequently a statement was taken from him by a detective who was unable to provide any information on no less than six occasions in trying to ascertain the progress being made in the matter.

The detective kept telling him to keep checking but as his frustration and stress

mounted from the unbearable and unacceptable pushing around, he approached me to write a letter of complaint to the relevant authorities and this was done on October 7, last.

From all appearances, it seems very much evident that there was a deliberate plan to deny the victim of justice, which was bad and unjust for no action was taken in the matter within a one month period but the letter caused a resurrection.

On October 23, the money was paid over to the victim by his assailant in the presence of the detective who made a mockery of the justice system by failing to confine his operations within the ambit of the law.

The proper approach in this matter was for the police to charge his assailant and place him before the

GBA/GAWL was called upon to issue a statement in the latter matter the very President of the Bar Association response was, “That’s not our business”. Also, when Raphael Trotman, Attorney-at-Law and Speaker of the National Assembly was accused of sexual molestation of a young boy, the public heard not a murmur from the GBA/GAWL.

It is sad to see the double standards and hypocrisy that is obvious in the way the GBA/GAWL deal with matters. I often wonder what really is their interest. It certainly is not what is should be. The public should ignore the GBA/GAWL until we are satisfied of their agenda.

Yours faithfully, Richard Mendoza

its course

court when it would have been easier, better and legally right to make the settlement.

Penalties imposed by the court can serve as a deterrent to reduce the crime rate within the community when police settlements will not suppress criminal activities but rather make a worsening situation inevitable from the saying, “Me gat money. Me can pay and do it again”. Without the letter just to “help out” the victim, it was a forgone conclusion that this matter was already dead and buried, but is this the way the force was designed to function?

Justice must be allowed to take its course with no short cut to defeat its purpose.

Yours sincerely, Balliram Persaud

Some $110M in education vouchers distributed in Linden

More than 11,000 children from Linden on Saturday benefited from the Government of Guyana “Because we Care” $10,000 Cash Grant.

Distribution of the vouchers started in Linden. Some $110 million was distributed to parents at 12 locations.

Those locations included the Bamia Primary, Mackenzie Primary, Amelia’s Ward Primary, Coomacka Primary, Linden Foundation Secondary, Bay

Rock Community Centre, New Silver City Secondary, Harmony Secondary and Wismar Hill Secondary Schools.

The parents were urged to keep their children in school and be interested in their lives.

They applauded the recommendation that should the “Because we Care” $10,000 Cash Grant continue next year, it should be given on the condition that children attend school fre-

quently, perhaps having an average percentage of attendance at school for a given school term.

The parents were urged to use the grant wisely. The cash grant programme is another initiative aimed at giving parents additional support to equip their children for school.

Parents have until the November 30 to encash their vouchers at any Western Union or Bill Express location.

Amerindian leaders say education grant a timely support

Many of the Amerindian leaders who are in Georgetown attending the National Toshaos Council (NTC) meeting from October 29 to November 1 have expressed satisfaction with the “Because we care” $10,000 Programme.

NTC Chairman Derrick John thanked the President on behalf of the indigenous people and Guyana at large.

“We have seen another demonstration of your Government’s commitment to serve our people,” John said.

Owen Bowling of Muritaro, Region 10 said the grant would benefit members of his community with children going to secondary schools in Linden.

Toshao Cleville Thomas of Sawariwau, Region Nine said the $10,000 is helpful to all parents, because it can help them to top up their money in terms of buying their children school gear.

Toshao, Derek Williams of Kamana, Region Eight explained that while they cannot yet judge the effects, “… we feel proud because is not

Eccles Nursery joins “Eat What We Grow” Campaign

In an effort to further promote the “Eat What We Produce” Campaign, Minister within the Agriculture Ministry Alli Baksh on Friday commissioned two grow boxes at the Eccles Nursery, East Bank Demerara.

The ceremony also saw the Minister donating two blenders to the school’s kitchen to support its school feeding drive. The aim is to ensure every child benefits from not only a hot meal, but healthy locally produced fruit juice.

The aim of the campaign is to promote a permanent behavioural change in Guyana, which will see Guyanese eating what is produced locally and to expand the country’s unique Guyanese hospitality to include feeding guests what is grown and produced in Guyana.

every parent is employed and they cannot afford to buy everything for their children attending school.”

For Toshao, Sherman Lewis of Smith Creek, Region One, the initiative is very good for the children.

“…things that we cannot afford have already been purchased and this is very good.”

Senior Councillor Linus Henry from Mora Village

will be spent on the “Because we care” Programme. This newest initiative of the administration has been evoking numerous comments from recipients since its launch on October 11. The project is the latest in a series of initiatives extended to parents to ensure that students get the best education.

Parents from Regions One, Two, Three, Five, Six,

Distribution of the grant is slated to end on November 21, and should cover the entire country

sees the grant as really beneficial for the children attending school.

“I have six children attending school and my wife collected $60,000.”

Lester Edwin from Kaibarupai Village in Region Eight noted that while the grant has not yet reached his community “…we really appreciate and are happy to hear about it.”

A welcome project

The $10,000 grant is a welcome project and a great help to members of Toshao, Rudolph Roberts’ Village, Yupukari, Region Nine. He noted that for secondary school students who reside in dormitories, the grant will help to subsidise their expenses in relation to the little income garnered by residents of his community.

“It’s a great help and I know the people are glad that the Government can do such a venture, and I would like to thank them for it,” he said.

Seven and Nine and some city areas have thus far benefitted since the rolling out of the grant initiative on October 11.

The project caters for all children in the public education system with over 188,400 families set to benefit from the initiative.

Records testify to Government’s commitment to the provision of facilities and programme to ensure the education of the nation’s children. These include the renovation and/or construction of 1000 schools; and the achievement of Universal Primary Education; and being on the verge of attaining Universal Secondary Education. Government is also on the verge of attaining 100 per cent trained teachers in all school, with the current rate being 75 per cent.

Distribution of the grant is slated to end on November 21, and should cover the entire country.

Eccles Nursery Headmistress Catherine Hinds, who spearheaded the initiative, lauded the move by the Ministry. She said it is the aim of the school to ensure every child benefits from a healthy meal.

ing more food to ensure that the country is more food secure, with the poten-

tial to support other countries while at the same time sustaining itself.

Hundreds of millions of dollars have already been distributed of the $2 billion that

The $10,000 voucher can be encashed at Western Union outlets with recipients in riverain and hinterland locations receiving cash.

Minister Baksh in delivering brief remarks spoke of the importance of grow-

Page Foundation

Anu Dev

In Guyana, November’s set aside as “Tourism Month”. (See I still remember my “months” from Primary School.) While in Guyana, I guess I wasn’t as appreciative of all the natural beauty and fantastic sights that we have, as I probably should’ve been.

But then, it’s a little hard to walk around in perpetual awe over the beauty of your surroundings when the person walking right in front of you just dropped their empty Doritos bag right onto the street. Or empty water bottles are thrown through car windows. We really need to cut down on littering – it’s just so lazy and disgusting. And ugly.

Our Government has identified tourism as one of the sources of generating revenue for our national development and the themes highlight various aspects that we need to work on. This year, I read, they’re hoping for 100,000 return-

Guyana: beautiful, happy and free...

“O beautiful Guyana/O my lovely native land/More dear to me than all the world...”

ing Guyanese. We’re assured our tourist numbers are inching ever upwards. So while we’re not exactly being overrun by tourists in downtown Georgetown, maybe that’s because our main product –- eco-tourism –- is far from the madding crowd. You’d be surprised how many folks are traipsing around our interior!

And why shouldn’t they? Guyana has so many beautiful sights to see and places to be – the land itself has done half of the work – all we Guyanese have to do is to market the beauty! That’s not to say it’ll be a cinch. But I’m always floored by the fact that so many Guyanese haven’t even explored the coast. We don’t see ourselves as tourists. When planning family vacations, Guyanese mostly seem to leave out Guyana as a possible option. My family and I have toured the entire coast from end-to-end and we revelled in every moment.

I remember our fifth form Geography trip down to Lethem. All of us were awestruck by the mountains, the freshness of the air, and the all-round good feeling we had just being

there.

If the Kanuku Mountains left me speechless, then the sunrise in Lethem took my breath away completely. Sure we had to ‘rough it’ and toughen up a bit, but it was worthwhile- I couldn’t ask for a better set of people to endure the 18-hour trip with!

And whenever I’m flying back home, looking out of the window, I’m always awed by how Guyana looks just spread out below us, with its rivers just winding through the forested land. And also by how fragile the coast is, protected as it was from the tumultuous Atlantic just by mangroves and that sliver of sea wall. Why would anyone want to hop on a plane to New York instead of to Kaieteur Falls –- at least once? I mean, we locals get to visit the place at a discount –never mind the grumbles of the overseas Guyanese!

I implore all Guyanese reading this, to visit Fort Zeelandia, take a trip down to Lethem, the Orealla Regatta set for November 13 or just take a swim in Lake Mainstay. It’s your land to enjoy. Experience your country, experience the beauty, experience the

magic! We can be tourists too, you know!

Also, being abroad has given me a greater appreciation for Guyanese cooking. We really do have some of the best food, here in Guyana. And that’s something we really need to emphasise when persons visit Guyana.

I do think we should stress our local foods much more – but surely our chefs can be a bit more creative. We might have to pander a bit to some unadventurous taste buds, but I’m sure most tourists really want to experience authentic Guyanese culture. Then, of course, we’d be perking up our local farmers.

Being away from home has made me miss it of course, and it’s also allowed me to view Guyana through new eyes when I visit. I’m looking for the changes, for the improvements; I’m more appreciative of this country that I grew up in.

We have a glorious country, full of rich heritage and wonder. So let’s remember that this November, and this Tourism Month, maybe we can do a bit of touring and visit parts of our country that we’ve never visited before.

Eluding Ebola: Gear matters, but technique matters more

New guidelines for the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that health workers should have on when treating Ebola patients make clear that what you wear counts — but even more important is how you put it on and take it off.

And the guidelines that the World Health Organisation (WHO) updated Friday suggest only highly trained medical professionals should be taking on the dangerous job of caring for Ebola patients, say the country’s leading doctors at the National Institutes of Health.

“Anybody could do this, but the training process is something that takes a lot of time,” Dr Francis Collins, who heads the National Institutes of Health, told NBC News in an interview.

Treating Ebola patients does not have to be dangerous, Collins said. “But it takes a lot of time to make it safe.”

That was obvious in a demonstration given this week at the NIH clinical centre, where Dallas nurse Nina Pham was cared for until she was released earlier this month. It took a full 10 minutes to gear up Kevin Barrett, a specialist nurse who helped care for Pham.

“First, Kevin, please don the belt,” says Dr Tara Palmore, hospital epidemiologist for the NIH Clinical Centre. She’s spotting Barrett. Ebola veterans say having someone watch you put on — and, more importantly, take off — Ebola gear can make the difference between safely treating a patient and getting infected yourself.

“Then don the shoe covers,” Palmore adds, reading from a checklist. Barrett systematically puts on a white Tyvek full-body suit; two pairs of shoe covers; a helmet called a powered air purifying respirator (PAPR or “papper” for short); a “shroud” over his

PAPR and head; a two-way radio that’s hooked to his belt; two pairs of gloves, taped on using a special trick so the tape can be pulled off easily later; and a yellow gown.

Doffing the gear takes even longer. “One of the most dangerous times is when someone is doffing or taking off their gear,” said Dr. Anthony Fauci, head of the NIH’s National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

Palmore spots Barrett every step of the way, instructing him step by step. In a real patient care situation, she’d be suited up too, just in case something splashed off onto her. The goal is to get all these layers off without ripping them and without carrying any possible contamination outside the room where the patient is. Experience led to the trick with the tape, said Fauci — just folding the end over itself leaves a non-sticky length that can be pulled without ripping the sleeve of the suit.

That’s one of the flaws that Dr Thomas Frieden, Director of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, saw at the Texas Health Presbyterian hospital in Dallas, where Pham and her fellow nurse Amber Vinson became infected. They layered on too many pairs of gloves and rolled on so much tape they had trouble getting the gear off safely.

Health-care workers often get infected even while wearing PPE. Hundreds have become infected and have died at the front lines in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea, and Pham and Vinson were infected while taking care of Thomas Eric Duncan, the only person so far to die of Ebola in the United States.

Most experts think infection was due to a gear malfunction of some type — perhaps a small mistake made when taking off contaminated PPE. (Excerpt from NBC News)

Glenn Lall abuses Guyana Times journalist

Kaieteur News

Publisher Glenn

Lall verbally abused a reporter attached to the Guyana Times on Friday afternoon. The reporter –name withheld for safety reasons – has since described the experience as a most “disgusting” and “despicable” one.

It was the second such incident in recent days of Lall’s verbal abuse of a Guyana Times reporter. The management of the newspaper plans to lodge a formal complaint with the Guyana Press Association (GPA) and with the Independent Media Association of Guyana (IMAG).

The reporter was tasked with completing a followup story on the Police investigations into a complaint Lall had lodged with the Guyana Police Force against Attorney General Anil Nandlall.

In doing so, the reporter was asked to call Lall in an attempt to obtain a comment from the Publisher with respect to statements issued by the Guyana Police Force as part of the investigations into the matter.

However, when contacted, Lall launched a verbal onslaught, including expletives, which the reporter, who was simply doing his job, further described as “downright nasty”.

On a previous occasion, the newspaper Publisher told a Guyana Times journalist over the telephone to “go f**k yourself”.

Lall has been accused of avoiding the Police in the ongoing investigations relating to his illegal recording of a conversation between Senior Reporter at the Kaieteur News Leonard Gildharie and the Attorney General.

Lall subsequently filed a complaint with the Police alleging threats to him and his staff had been made.

Police have commenced their probe but say they have been stymied thus far owing to Lall's and Gildharie’s lack of cooperation.

On Thursday, the Police issued a statement highlighting both Lall's and Gildharie’s reluctance to cooperate, which Lall denied.

With the law prohibiting recording or tapping of citizens’ private communications, except when so authorised by the Chiefof-Staff of the Army, the Commissioner of Police or the Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority through a Judge, if found guilty of illegal phone tapping, Lall could be liable to a fine of $5 million and a jail term of up to three years.

On Friday, in another statement, Police urged Lall to turn himself in and abandon his public relations stunt.

Lall, his wife, Bhena, and a remigrant couple are currently before the court facing charges of tax evasion to the tune of some $100 million.

The charges allege that between June 18, 2013 and September 20, 2013, at Lot 200-201 Camp Street,

Georgetown, they made and subscribed to false declarations on two Lexus LX 570 motor vehicles to be US$44,158 respectively, contrary to Section 217 (1a) of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.

The Lalls are also before the court on another matter relating to allegedly evading paying some $5.7 million in property taxes to the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) for their property at 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, where the Kaieteur News is located.

Meanwhile, on Friday, Lall’s Attorney, Khemraj Ramjattan was also accused of verbally abusing Senior Editor at the National Communications Network (NCN), Edward Layne.

In a statement, Layne said he attempted to get a comment from the AFC Leader via telephone about why he had not released the evidence he has of three Opposition Members of Parliament being offered $30 million each to vote against the No-Confidence Motion.

Layne said he was “met with extreme hostility. “I proceeded to ask Mr Ramjattan whether his utterances were his official comment, to which he answered in the affirmative and said, ‘You publish what I said, I don’t care what you want to write, boy; look, haul your *ss, what the **ss you think’,” the statement said.

Glenn Lall may have hundreds of illegal phone recordings – uses them as weapons of blackmail

Owner and Publisher of the Kaieteur News, Glenn Lall may have hundreds of illegal phone recordings in his possession, which he often uses as weapons of blackmail whenever he needs to manipulate a situation to his advantage.

It is believed that A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament (MP) James Bond was a victim in one such instance Saturday. Bond, via Facebook, had blasted the Kaieteur News Publisher for his illegal recording of phone conversations, including those of his own reporters.

Guyana Times has a copy of the post.

But the post was suddenly removed after it was alleged that Bond may have been threatened by Lall with illegally obtained phone recordings of the Attorney and of those close to him.

In light of this turn of events, fresh fears have surfaced as regards the recordings Lall may have in his possession.

One source told Guyana Times that Lall has illegal phone recordings of members of almost every sector of society, including the Judiciary, the Police, the Army, the business community, the diplomatic corps, and Government and Opposition officials.

The source stated that this perhaps explains why Lall behaves with such im-

punity even in the face of the law by violating court orders and disobeying the Police by refusing to show up when they demand his presence.

Lall had illegally taped a private conversation between Senior Reporter at the Kaieteur News, Leonard Gildharie and Attorney General Anil Nandlall.

He subsequently made this recording public by distributing it to several media outfits. He also filed a complaint with the Guyana Police Force claiming that the Attorney General threatened him and his staff.

In the Facebook comment, Bond said Lall has a responsibility as a citizen not to “violate the rights and privacies of other citizens”.

The MP went on to chastise Lall, who, he said, had effectively betrayed the trust of his staff members, noting that it will now be difficult for his reporters to acquire sources.

Glenn Lall is "wrong"

“By spying on your own people, you have endangered their sources and betrayed the confidence of your staff. "No one is going to feel comfortable to work with you. You have crossed the line and you are wrong.”

However, Guyana Times was reliably informed that the Attorney and Lall met in a private room at a city restaurant where it is alleged that Bond was reportedly threatened by the Publisher that if he did not remove the

APNU MP James Bond

post from his Facebook page, there would be consequences.

Lall was reportedly ready to release a recording of some interesting statements made by Bond. Moments after that meeting, the post was deleted.

Meanwhile, Lall continues to avoid the Police in the ongoing investigations relating to the illegal recording of the private conversation. Lall had filed a complaint with the Police, alleging threats to him and his staff Police have commenced their probe but have been stymied thus far, owing to a lack of cooperation from Lall and Gildharie

On Thursday, the Police issued a statement highlighting both Lall's and Gildharie’s reluctance to cooperate, which Lall denied.

On Friday, in another statement, Police urged Lall to turn himself in and abandon his public relations stunt.

Dr Gordon-Boyle is new GRPA Board President

The Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA), which is known as the Health Ministry’s number one ally in the promotion and provision of sexual and reproductive health services in Guyana, recently inaugurated a new Board.

The new 13-member Board of Directors was elected at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting

(AGM) held at Cara Lodge on October 14.

The new GRPA Board includes the Executive Director of the institution, Reverend Patricia SheerattanBisnauth and four-time elected Treasurer Gaitrie Shivsankar, who, along with the other members will govern for two years.

The Board comprises the President, Dr Karen GordonBoyle, Vice President Jason

Shepherd, Secretary Mena Carto, Assistant Secretary Ayana McCalman and members, Dr Faith Harding, Joel Simpson, Sharon RoopchandEdwards and youth representatives Chelsie France and Travis Bruce. The Board also includes three trustees –Dela Britton, Glenis Archer and Ramsay Ali.

Trustee member Ramsay Ali said the new Board features a wide-cross section

of individuals with various skill-sets to effectively execute the duties of the GRPA.

Ali added that the GRPA Board is well represented by youths, and the Lesbian, Gays, Bisexual and Transgender (LBGT) community and is gender balanced.

Board President, Dr Gordon-Boyle looks forward to her team supporting the GRPA to fulfil its mission to ensure access to quality healthcare, education and information for all individuals and families across Guyana.

Meanwhile, Board Treasurer Gaitrie Shivsankar said she hopes to see definite and impactful fundraising efforts within the next year to further the work of the GRPA, especially as it gets ready for a number of new initiatives including free breast examinations to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month and also in November free ProstateSpecific Antigen (PSA) screening tests and testicular examination for prostate cancer screening.

Eyew tness

“Jackassery”...

...in media

When old people say, “You can’t try the Devil in hell”, they know what they’re talking about. The deck’s gonna be so stacked for the guy with the horns and trident – he runs the joint!! – no way he’s even going to get even a slap on the wrist!!

So you know Glenn Lall’s really desperate when he runs to his Opposition hatchet-consort, Enrico Woolford, to defend him against the “interception of communication” charge he’s running from!! What credibility can the Devil’s buddies have with regular Guyanese really interested in the truth – and justice?

Woolford used the standard stock-in-trade of his ilk – ad hominem attacks on those who hold a contra position. They’re exhibiting “jackassery”, are “crazy” and “have a reading problem”. But sadly all Woolford proved is that he’s projecting all those qualities from his own hate-filled, anti-PPP/C psyche.

Let’s look at the “reading problem” he’s confessing to. The man had the temerity to claim the “Interception of Communication Act of 2008”, under which Lall and his reporter are going to be booked, only applies to service providers like GT&T and Digicel, etc!! He can’t claim he isn’t aware of the context in which that law was passed: he actually referred to the taped 2006 telephone conversation between Felix and Basil Williams that Roger Khan fessed-up to making.

Two years later, the Government was making very clear WHO, HOW AND UNDER WHAT CONDITIONS COMMUNICATIONS COULD BE INTERCEPTED AND RECORDED IN GUYANA . But if Woolford could read, he’d have seen the very first line of the Act declaring it’s : “An Act to make provision for the interception of communications, the acquisition and disclosure of data relating to communications...etc.”

And legally such actions can only be initiated by the Commissioner of Police, the Head of the GRA and the Head of the GDF. Nowhere in the act does it give anyone – such as reporters as Woolford claims – a free pass to intercept and record communications as they want.

Even in Britain’s more expansive law, if one party records a telephone conversation he breaks the law if he then shares that communication without having FIRST warned the other party that the conversation’s being taped.

In the Gildharie taping of the AG, his boss Lall stated that he was immediately given the recording. He appeared to know the law better than Woolford because he also tried to twist some equivocations by Gildharie to say the latter warned the AG. Looks like Lall couldn’t be saved even in hell!! He should surrender to the nearest Police station.

...and cussin’

Some people have no shame. Imagine cuss-bud Nagamootoo trying to dress down the AG for cussin’ during what he thought was a private gyaaf – the Trinis called it “ole talk” – between friends. Imagine the usual language of a man who could proudly tell the entire Parliament of Guyana, that he’s yelled at his six-year old grandson, “Shut yuh so-an’-so mouth!!!” And is now squeamish about the language of two adults who were childhood friends??

Nagamootoo has crawled through every rum shop from Point Playa to Crabwood Creek – and he should know that he’s infamous for his scatological vocabulary. This Eyewitness isn’t particularly impressed by folks who have to “cuss” to show “deh is man”... but as a practitioner of the art form, Nagamootoo shouldn’t be throwing stones about “vulgar expletives”.

And while Nagamootoo accused the AG of “pimping” for some “big bad man”, does he know what they call a person who sells himself as he’s done?? Try “prostitute”.

...and numeracy

There is a big war of words between the Police and Mook Lall. No, not just about him hiding from them. The Mook insists he sent only two letters to the Police. The Police produced three. Among other disabilities, looks like the Mook is numerically challenged. He can’t count beyond 2!!

Rodney COI

Former Police officer details party paramountcy under PNC

Former Superintendent of Police and electronics expert Trenton Roach has said that the 1980s People’s National Congress (PNC) Regime headed by the late Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham had publicly advocated that the ruling Government was the arm of the party and had acted accordingly.

That position had inadvertently forced employees of the State, including members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to em

brace those philosophies.

Failing to do so, he noted caused many to lose their jobs. Roach was at the time giving evidence at the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry (COI), probing the Historian’s death, as an expert witness.

While the Commission’s Counsel case was focused on gathering information on the investigation the former communications and electronics expert had carried out after the June 13,1980 bomb blast, the cross examination by Working People's

Alliance (WPA) Attorney Christopher Ram once again brought out the regime’s dictatorial rule.

The electronics expert told the tribunal which included Chairman Barbadian Queen’s Counsel, Sir Richard Cheltenham, Jamaican Queen’s Counsel Jacqueline SamuelBrown, and Trinidadbased Guyanese and Senior Counsel Seenath Jairam, that the Burnham regime was autocratic in its operations.

He related that he joined the Police Force in 1975 as a Corporal and was attached to the Communication Branch of the Police Force.

His responsibilities, along with others in that department were focused on the maintenance and monitoring of the communication devices, including all walkie-talkies.

Joining the Force as a public servant, Roach told the Commission that he was connected to his work and was committed to the security of the nation. He admitted that he was

Brand partnerships take to the skies with Caribbean Airlines

Passengers flying on Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) will now be able to enjoy signature cocktails featuring El Dorado Rums and Nestle Orchard fruit juices.

As part of a programme of showcasing partnerships with premium Caribbean brands, CAL will serve three specially curated cocktails complimentary to all passengers starting December 1.

Stephanie Holt, International Brand Ambassador for El Dorado Rums, designed the three cocktails - “Caribbean Spice”, “Caribbean Vibe” and “Golden Paradise” -incorporating the Nestle Orchard exotic flavours.

“Caribbean Airlines is

thrilled to be working with the award-winning brand, El Dorado, to showcase the attributes of what it means to be Caribbean.

“Brands like El Dorado serve to create a total lifestyle experience for our guests, and introduces the warmth of the Caribbean throughout the entire flight,” said CAL Senior Marketing Manager Alicia Cabrera.

Brand partnerships have already been rolled out with some of the Caribbean’s best chefs who have designed signature menus for Business Class.

“In the coming months passengers can expect even more of these alliances that celebrate the best of the Caribbean,” Cabrera said.

a member of the ruling party of the day, but was somewhat drawn to the teachings and philosophies of Dr Rodney. He said he had begun attending WPA meetings, even before he joined the Police Force in 1975.

Closely monitored

However, he related that he had to put an end to attending those meetings, after he was informed that he was being closely monitored.

Asked who he thought might have been carrying out the surveillance on him, the former Police officer said it could not be anyone else but the Special Branch Unit of the Guyana Police Force.

The former Superintendent of Police revealed that the Government of the day had taken a position against the WPA and

any citizen who had registered their support for that party.

He spoke of many instances where Police officers had lost their jobs because of their affiliation with the WPA.

Roach, who had also testified in the 1988 inquest as an expert witness, also told the Commission of his role in the investigation after the June 13 explosion.

A young Corporal at the time, Roach said he was working at the Monitoring Unit that evening when he was made aware of Dr Rodney’s death.

However, while “an explosion” was being discussed by officers in the unit, it was not confirmed, until he received orders the following day to meet with Crime Chief Cecil “Skip” Roberts at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

There, he was told to car-

ry out investigation on the equipment found at the explosion.

These, he explained included the Harris PortoPhone, described by English Forensic Scientist, Dr Frank Skews in his report and electronics expert Nirmal Rohit Kanhai in his evidence on Thursday last.

Although, not used by his unit, Roach said he could have identified the Harris Porto Phone because the unit had a number of “seized devices” in the storeroom.

The battery found at the scene of the explosion, among other things Roach said matched components found in the device described by Dr Skews and alleged assassin William Gregory Smith in the book he allegedly co-authored with his sister Ann Wagner.

Essequibo triplets turn 20 today

By IndrawattIe natram

Essequibo triplets

Radha, Rajshri and Reenica Mansaram of Land of Plenty, Essequibo Coast turned 20 today, but could not wait on the significant day, celebrating the milestone days before in grand style.

The beautiful young ladies who believe in charitable work were recently afforded a trip to the majestic Kaieteur Falls, compliments of their parents Devica Persaud and foster father Godfrey George. Radha, Rajshri and Reenica spent a day in the dense forest of the majestic Kaieteur Falls, exploring the adventures of life with their mother.

They also fed the children of Joshua House as part of their birthday celebrations.

Born to Persaud on November 2, 1994 at the Woodlands Hospital in Georgetown, the girls were described as very obedient, bright, helpful and

co-operative to their mother.

There mother said although she struggles working tirelessly as a security guard to maintain her daughters, she never regretted a single day. The mother said she is proud and her daughters brought immense joy and happiness to her life.

the “hot” labour pains; however, she managed and today she is reaping the benefits.

Her three daughters received nursery, primary and secondary education on the Essequibo Coast. Today, she said all the girls are working and she is anticipating sending them to further their

Persaud said when she went into labour, the doctors did not know they were about to deliver three babies, instead of one.

She said she remembered

studies at the University of Guyana (UG).

“I was living with their father in Georgetown… and I couldn’t take his attitude so we separated and I came to

live in Essequibo. All of their schooling was right here in Essequibo and by God’s grace, we made it through.”

The mother said she always instills positive values in her children and taught them to always keep the poor and needy at heart.

She said on every birthday celebration, she makes sure the girls make charitable donations to the less fortunate and elders.

The dedicated mother also said her daughters are very religious, noting that they attend mandir regularly.

The young ladies thanked God for giving them health and strength to reach 20, and are hoping that the blessings continue. The triplets also have another sister, Kavita Mansaram, who is equally loved by their mother.

The girls are advising young people to remain confident and to honour their parents, noting that the earthly blessing will be great.

Mook on the run

Satiricus was filled with admiration. While some people liked to look up to saints like Gandhi and such fellas, Satiricus’ take was that it took all types to make the world go around, no?

Some of them might be do-gooders like the “Naked Fakir”. But while the Gandhi type was on one end of the spectrum...how the heck you could you even HAVE a spectrum if there wasn’t another end?? Never thought of that, eh??

In Guyana, the Mook was that other end...and Satiricus figured the fella deserved recognition. If you didn’t have the Mook, how the heck could you tell your kids what they shouldn’t be when they grow up?? If you had heroes you had to have anti-heroes. Satiricus was just informed by his Editor, that the Mook was on the run.

What was it this time?? When Satiricus was younger, it was fellas like the Mook who’d created the “back-track” routes to America. People had their relatives in NY pay up half of the going rate then - which was US$5000 or so - and if they couldn’t cough up the next US$5,000, it was licks like peas - up in NY and down in Guyana. When everyone knew people would leave their villages, they didn’t expect some would disappear forever. The Mook.

So if your kids “played bad”, parents would tell them in ominous tones, “Me guh bring the Mook pon yuh!” That pulled them straight, all right. Satiricus knew this to his cost!! So wasn’t the Mook responsible for Satiricus’ success? Didn’t he deserve some credit??

Then there was the time when Guyana was looking for some “non-traditional” exports to bring in money. The Government spent a whole lot of money on fishing, But our fishes were to “dear”. No foreign markets. What to do?? The Mook saved the day. He hooked up with his friend Tiny in NY and stuffed the fish with some stuff that people in New York liked. Paid a lot of money for it. Didn’t matter what the fisherman charged for the fish - the Mook and a Tiny would buy it all.

Even bought some trawlers. Saved the fishing industry?? So some fishermen also disappeared who talked too much. But now you could make kids behave by telling them you’d send them on a fishing boat, owned by the Mook!

So what was the Mook on the run for this time?

Satiricus heard it was for saving the free press. He didn’t know much about that. But he knew he’d have a new way to bring HIS kids into line!

Big spending in education sector will continue – President

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government will continue to invest heavily in the Education Sector, President Donald Ramotar said as he addressed the Education Ministry’s Annual Award Ceremony at the National Cultural Centre on Thursday.

“An investment in the nation’s children is an investment in the future,” President Ramotar said.

As the global landscape changes, allowing for new and improved job opportunities in the field of science, technology, health and infrastructure, the President said greater investment is needed in the field of education.

Under the PPP/C Administration, Guyana would not be left behind, he said, positing that the country will continue to invest in its human capital.

He pointed out that the social sector in Guyana accounts for approximately 30 per cent of the nation’s budget, covering the health, education and the housing sectors, with education receiving the largest percentage.

Boasting of the achievements made under the PPP/C Administration, the President said Guyana has moved from a highly-indebted country to a middle-income developing nation.

As a result of the investments made thus far, he pointed out that Guyana has already achieved Universal

Primary Education and is currently on the path of achieving Universal Secondary Education.

Reference was made to the $10,000 cash grant that will benefit 188,406 families of students of the public nursery, primary and secondary schools.

The grant, which is currently being distributed, can be used to meet such costs as transportation and will provide added impetus to raising enrolment and attendance rates, in addition to increasing the disposable incomes of parents.

Further, President Ramotar said the grant will complement the National School Feeding Programme and the National Uniform Programme, which have contributed significantly to students’ attendance rates in-

creasing.

As the Government invests in the nation’s children, Ramotar urged the top performers to make the country proud by giving back. He said graduating from primary, secondary and tertiary institutions are just stepping stones, the greater impact will come when they aid in the development of the nation’s economy.

Meanwhile, Education Minister Priya Manickchand said she was pleased that traditionally known outstanding primary and secondary schools are being joined by schools previously never heard of. This, she said, is a direct result of equal opportunities provided to all schools regardless of their location.

Queen’s College Elisa Hamilton top the Caribbean with 20 subjects at the Caribbean Secondary

Education Certificate (CSEC). Ryhan Chand also of Queen’s College topped the region with 13 subjects.

In the area of Humanities, Queen’s College Aliyyah Abdul Kadir topped with 15 subjects while in the field of Technical Vocational Education, Kishan Crichlow of New Amsterdam Secondary School walked away with the

top prize. Special mention was also made of Rosemarie Ramitt who did not allow her disability to influence her life goals.

For the first time in Guyana’s history, a batch of Special Needs Candidates wrote CSEC with Ramitt copping five Grade Ones, namely in English A, Officer Administration, Principles of

Business, Social Studies and Human and Social Biology. More than 34 students and four schools from across Guyana were honoured during this year’s Annual Award Ceremony, which was held under the theme “Literate by Grade Four Through Consistent Home, School and Community Involvement”.

President: Parliament to be reconvened in 14 days

President Donald Ramotar on Saturday has directed that steps be taken to reconvene sitting of the National Assembly within the next 14 days.

A release from the Office of the President said having been appraised of Opposition Leader David Granger’s recent statement in the media with regard to talks between them, there is no longer any benefit to the country for any further delays in reconvening sitting of the National Assembly.

“The Government reiterates its position that the convening of a sitting of the National Assembly must be done in accordance with the Standing Orders and long cherished parliamentary practices.

“The Government has a number of pending legislative matters before the House prior to the annual recess. Further, there are important financial papers relating to the development of the country and growth of the economy that need to be urgently addressed,” the release said.

On Friday, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) said it will be filing a motion in the National Assembly to amend the Standing Orders to prevent future gridlock on the setting of a date for the House to re-

convene.

APNU Member of Parliament (MP) Joseph Harmon had explained that the motion will include amendments that would affect Standing Order Number 8 (1) and (2) and Standing Order Number 9.

The amendments would provide for a date by which the National Assembly should reconvene following the end of recess. Additionally, it would allow for the “majority” in the House to approach the Speaker to set an adjournment date.

Standing Order Number 8 (1) currently states: “Save as otherwise provided by the Constitution or resolved by the Assembly upon a motion moved by a Minister, the Assembly may sit every day except Saturdays and Sundays and unless the Assembly otherwise decide, every adjournment of the Assembly shall be to the next sitting day.”

Standing Order Number 8 (2) further states: “If, during an adjournment of the Assembly, it is represented to the Speaker by the Government, or the Speaker is of the opinion, that the public interest requires that the Assembly should meet on a day earlier than that to which it stands adjourned, the Speaker may give notice accordingly and the Assembly

shall meet at the time stated in such notice. The Clerk shall as soon as possible inform each member in writing, or telegraph or by appropriate electronic means of any such earlier meeting.”

Standing Order Number 9 adds: “Notwithstanding anything contained in Standing Order Number 8, unless there are special reasons for so doing, no sitting of the National Assembly shall be held from 10th August to 10th October in any year.”

According to Harmon, these Standing Orders are now being tested in the National Assembly, explaining that they were only adopted in July 2011, shortly before the Ninth Parliament dissolved. However, he said based on the current challenges, it is clear that amendments ought to be made to prevent future hindrances. According to the Member of Parliament, the motion will be co-sponsored by the Alliance For Change. He explained that the motion was crafted following in-depth consultation with the AFC. Government’s Chief Whip Gail Teixeira when contacted said there is nothing wrong in filing a motion to amend the Standing Orders; however, she warned that due process “must” be followed.

Simply the Truth

Navin Chandarpal

Guyana has lost one of its best sons, Navin Chandarpaul. Many people, I would imagine, would know of his political leanings and his political career. He was a dyed-in-thecloth PP/C person, a former Minister of Government, a long-time politician.

Many would also know that he was a man of the people, welcoming in all circumstances, even to his political foes.

Navin was a friend to me and was one of the people who were tangibly supportive of our efforts to raise the University of Guyana Berbice Campus to what it became from 2008 to 2013. I met Navin in 1973, when I started my first degree at the University of Guyana in Turkeyen.

I met him with such stalwarts as Phulandar Khandi, Sherwin Griffith, and other fellow students.

Navin tried to get me to join the PYO, but I was too independent-minded or too willful to join. Same for the PNC chaps who were in power at the time. I would not join anyone. In fact, I became very upset when I was approached by both parties.

Navin and I stayed at the same board and lodge place that was situated behind Lee’s Funeral Parlour (Lamaha and Camp Streets). There was a narrow alley that led to the boarding house that barely accommodated the handles of my motorbike, a Yamaha LS-2, very nice at the time.

The board and lodge place was run by my cousin, Cleopatra (we all called her “Girlie”). There was a kind of standing joke (created by Lennox Pertabsingh, Girlie’s brother).

That man could weave a tale! He made it up that Girlie used one tea bag to make five cups of tea for us five boarders. The tea bag would then be put in the fridge to be used again for the rest of the week.

Lenny also spun the tale that one level small spoon of coffee would be passed over five cups with such dexterity that just one or two grains of coffee would end up in each cup. But the sugar was generous and milk too. It was all in good fun.

Navin and the rest of the UG students were too gracious to complain. Those chaps concentrated on the work and studies that needed to be done. We had good conversation, always laced with lots of teasing and fun and laughter!

Beneath the fun and the laughter and the ease of

relating, Navin was serious, however.

He was never too serious about himself, like most good men and women. Only the feeble take themselves seriously.

Instead, Navin Chandarpaul was serious about the future of the Republic of Guyana. To this end, he dedicated his life. There was no flash and dazzle, just simple good work. No boasting and hoopla, just solid stuff upon which we could build a better place for ourselves and our children.

Having heard that Navin was unwell in serious ways –maybe a year ago– I called. I had learned that he was in the USA for treatment. He came back home, a little better. I simply wanted to know how he was doing and to assure him that he was in my thoughts and prayers. That man ended up offering comfort to me!

“Don’t worry, Daizie boy!” he said, “I am okay.”

And then he promptly gave me a lecture about my temper! It was so funny to me, but I listened carefully. It was funny because beneath Navin’s good nature was an impatience against stupidity and willful ignorance.

He knew that arrogance is the spawn of ignorance, and was much less patient than I am. I have had people close to me utter such rubbish that I blush with embarrassment. Uttering such ordinary things as if it was something original or newly fashioned. My reaction is usually to change the subject and move on.

Navin could have a conversation with anyone about anything, and he was never condescending in his speaking or listening. He was firm in his beliefs and loyal to his causes and his friends. He never forgave cruelty against the weak. And he never denied the real existence of vulgar and vile people. Such was

US-based Guyanese shot in execution attempt

Seconds are leaving a Chinese restaurant at Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice (WCB) on Friday evening; a US-based Guyanese was shot in the head in an apparent execution attempt.

his honour! I respected it greatly, and will do so until I meet him in the Great Beyond where we shall have a vodka or scotch or beer or coffee or tea.

Our nation is bereft of a man who was good, thoughtful, kind, humble, and considerate. People like me have lost a friend upon whom we can call in times of distress. More importantly, we have lost a friend who was always willing to come forward with help for “ordinary” citizens, one who was always accessible. Travel well, Brother! I know you have made my life richer. Our forests w ill sing you to the heavens.

Patirck Mohan, 46, of Bellevue, WCB was subsequently admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital with a bullet lodged in the right side of the head. He is said to be in a stable, but serious condition.

According to information received, the perpetrator who was clad in white t-shirt was seen escaping in a waiting motor car. Robbery has since been ruled out since no attempt was made to take the victim’s belonging.

Vijay Narine, a nephew who travelled with the man and other family members to Guyana to attend a funeral, explained that on the night of the shooting, they were at the wake at Bush Lot when the victim’s wife

felt like eating Chinese food.

He explained that Mohan, along with him and another cousin took the drive to the Chinese restaurant, which is some distance away from their home. As they entered the restaurant, he disclosed that two men were sitting at a table, but from all indications, they were known to his uncle who “hailed them up”.

While at the restaurant, he ordered three bottles of alcohol beverages and waited for the food as it was being prepared. After collecting the food, he and his cousin walked toward the car with his uncle behind.

As they arrived at the car, he said, “All I heard was bang… I threw myself down on the road and my cousin told me to take shelter behind a truck that was parked nearby.” Narine said he was fearful for his life and comply with his cousin’s order.

Soon after, he went on to

say that the alleged perpetrator ran into a car which sped away from the scene. Out of confusion, they did not take the registration number.

His uncle, who was lying in a pool of blood on the roadway, was quickly taken to the Fort Wellington Hospital where he was treated and transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital. After sometime there, his uncle was further transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital due to the seriousness of his injuries. Narine explained that his uncle visits Guyana on a regular basis and was not sure of the motive behind the shooting.

Mohan was accompanied by his wife to Guyana to attend the funeral of a relative which is slated for Thursday. He was due back in the United States a few days after the funeral. Police in a release said they are investigating the incident.

Soldiers briefed on Ebola spread, Guyana’s preparedness

Officers of the Joint Services have been sensitised about issues relative to the outbreak of Ebola in West Africa, the ensuing implications for the rest of the world, and the Health Ministry’s approach to preparing for any possible outbreak of the disease in Guyana.

Sensitisation sessions were held at Base Camp Ayanganna one on Thursday evening at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Officers’ Mess and the other on October 27, at the GDF Medical Corps.

Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr Shamdeo Persaud made the presentations, speaking to the nature of the Ebola virus, and presented some background regarding the latest outbreak in the West African nations of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, where some 9500 cases of infection have been reported, with 4880 deaths recorded to date.

Addressing the Ministry’s plan to deal with any possible outbreak of Ebola in Guyana, Dr Persaud said that the plan focuses on keeping the Ebola virus out of Guyana.

In this regard, he said the plan caters for coordination and control, moni -

toring points of entry into Guyana, establishing a regime for clinical management of suspected and actual cases of Ebola, laboratory diagnosis, and establishing a robust information, education and communication programme.

He indicated that regional committees are being set up, with subcommittees tasked with looking into specific priority areas. Dr Persaud also offered advice on steps to be taken to help to protect oneself from the virus.

Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran, who was also present, provided informative responses in relation to questions posed by the Officers during a very spirited and all encompassing discussion session.

He expounded on the value of research in strategically tackling health issues such as Ebola and Government’s plan to deal with Ebola virus and other viral diseases infections. He further expressed the hope that similar engagements with the Joint Services could become a permanent feature on the Ministry’s Diary of Events.

The heads of services agreed that the Ministry’s presentation was timely,

given the topical nature of the issue and the real-time existence of an Ebola outbreak which has the potential to devastate human populations, if the relevant safeguards are not taken.

Joint Services Chairman, Brigadier General Mark Phillips said the Joint Services will collaborate with the Health Ministry on this issue and stand ready to provide assistance in whatever form needed.

According to available scientific evidence, a person infected with the Ebola virus can suffer the following symptoms: systemic fever, lack of appetite, internal bleeding, muscular aches and weakness, joint pains, diarrhoea, stomach pain and vomiting, develop skin rashes and bleeding through the skin, hiccups, sore throat, difficulty breathing and swallowing.

Additionally, an infected person may not appear immediately symptomatic, since the virus could gestate in the body for as long as a 21-day period, before any symptoms become apparent.

One of the clearest symptoms is the sudden onset of a very high fever that continues to get worse.

Akbar Auto Sales fire started in bond – senior fire officer

The massive fire which destroyed Akbar Auto Sales, Corneila Ida, West Coast Demerara, is reported to have started in the middle of the vehicle bond.

This is according to the Guyana Fire Service’s Officer-in-Charge of Operations, Compton Sparman. In a telephone interview, Sparman explained that due to the large extent of the fire, a complete and extensive investigation will take some time since the various areas of the premises will have to be scrutinised.

He pointed out that the vehicle bond will have to be examined along with the furniture factory that was housed in the same compound.

The senior fire officer said all possibilities of the cause of fire are being explored.

“We are not ruling out or admitting to anything as yet... it’s too early and much work has to be done,” he told Guyana Times Sparman further be -

moaned the actions of citizens who indiscriminately light fire around their environs. He highlighted the high number of cases of man made fires that the Fire Service is summoned to put out.

On Friday, around midday, a fire broke out at the West Demerara business place, destroying the entire vehicle bond and the furniture manufacturing plant, causing proprietor Monaf Hossein called “Akbar”, to be counting his losses in the millions.

Hossein disclosed that he was at Masjid when he received a call about a fire at the business place. He said by the time he arrived at the facility, there was little that could be done to save the vehicles in the yard. The businessman further related that the auto sales business started some 70 years ago and it will not be an easy task to rebound from the disaster.

“Everything gone, everything,” Hossein lamented, while contending

that he was grateful that the home at the front of the property did not sustain any damage, which he attributes to the promptness of the Guyana Fire Service.

The businessman disclosed that he was not sure what could have caused the fire, but related he has had some issues with a neighbour who has been lighting fires, much to the danger of his premises for quite some time now.

“We tell them umpteen times don’t burn nothing there, or when they burn let someone stick around and watch it,” he said. While noting that he was not pointing fingers at anyone, he complained that those warnings went unheeded.

The fire resulted in the destruction of approximately 100 vehicles in the compound; however, Hossein could not say whether they were insured but was curtain that the furniture factory and the building were covered by insurance.

SunDAY, november 2, 2014 | guYAnAtimeSgY.com

Insurance company sued over performance guarantee claims

The Government of Guyana has taken the Diamond Fire and General Insurance Incorporated to court in an attempt to recoup over $32 million that was lodged as advance payment guarantee and performance bond that were established as part of the contract for works to be done on the Synthetic Track and Field Facility, Leonora, West Coast Demerara.

The legal action was filed by the Chambers of the Attorney General on Thursday and sought to enforce the performance bond and advance payment guarantee that were put up at the request of JPM General Construction and Engineering Services in favour of the Government pursuant to a contract.

The construction company was contracted for works to be done on Phase 2 – Lot 4 of the facilitiy, that is, the construction of a boundary fence and ticket booth.

The performance bond was set up to guarantee satisfactory completion of the project by the contractor, failing which the Government

(who is the beneficiary of the bond) is guaranteed compensation for any monetary loss up to the amount specified in the bonds.

At the time of the execution of the performance bond and advance payment guarantee, the Diamond Fire and General Insurance Incorporated agreed and irrevocably undertook to pay the Government any sum not exceeding the amounts stated in the bonds upon receipt of the Government’s first demand.

The demand should be in writing and should be accompanied by a written statement, detailing that the contractor has breached its obligations under the contract. This will exempt Government from having to prove and show grounds for the demand of the bond.

In July last, Government terminated the contract with JPM General Construction and Engineering Services, citing the company’s failure to discharge its contractual obligations. Subsequently, on September 25, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport

wrote to the insurance company, informing that the contract has been terminated after the contractor was found in breach of contract.

Additionally, the first demand for the payment of the performance guarantee in the amount of $6,583,957 and the sum of $26,024,355 for the advance payment guarantee was made. However, despite this, the insurance company has “failed, refused and neglected” to make the payments to date.

As such, the Attorney General Chambers filed a Writ of Summons and Statement of Claim at the Commercial Division of the High Court, in which the Attorney General is making claims for $26,024,355 and $6,583,957.

The Attorney General is also asking for interest at the rate of six per cent per annum from the date of filing to the date of judgment and at the rate of four per cent until the money is fully paid. Other costs are also being sought.

The matter has been scheduled for hearing on December 17.

Pensioner killed in BV accident

Apensioner was struck down and killed on Friday night as he was attempting to cross the Railway Embankment at Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Dead is 72-year-old Randolph Rodney called “Ronny” of Lot 9 Triumph, ECD. The accident occurred around 20:30h as the elderly man was on his way home from church.

In a release, the Police said Rodney “was struck down by a motor vehicle as he was allegedly attempting to cross the road on the BV Railway Embankment, ECD.”

Guyana Times was told the vehicle that hit Rodney is reportedly a Bluebird model bearing registration number PSS 860.

At the time of the accident, one of Rodney’s brothers, Rudolph, was with him. This newspaper spoke with the brother, who recounted the events of the accident.

According to Rudolph,

he was returning home from church and was unaware that his brother was behind him.

“We were waiting at the crossing and I pass to cross; I didn’t know he was coming behind me and he decide to come and he get lash,” the brother recalled.

He added that Randolph was picked up and immediately rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment.

The family was tightlipped on additional details of the accident and refused to comment further on what happened.

A resident nearby told Guyana Times that she was in bed when she heard a loud crash.

The woman said she initially thought it was a bicycle that was hit, but when she came out to investigate, she was told by persons passing by that “Ronny” was hit by a car.

“When I come out, they done take he away to the hos-

pital so I didn’t get to see is who really, then I hear that is Ronny and he died,” she said.

The 72-year-old man leaves to mourn two sisters and five brothers, along with other relatives and friends. He had no children.

Meanwhile, the driver of the motor car has been taken into custody and is assisting ranks at the BV Police Station with the investigations.

Only Friday, the Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC) launched Road Safety Month under the theme, “The time is now, don’t drink and drive. Stay attentive, drive defensive”. According to reports, 102 accidents have been recorded for the year with 110 deaths, 13 of whom are children.

These figures represent a drastic increase from those recorded last year.

Driving Under the Influence of alcohol (DUI) and speeding have been identified as the major causes of road accidents.

Another victim succumbs after Mahaicony accident

Hours after being admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital in a critical state, a second victim in the Drill, Mahaicony accident succumbed to his injuries early Saturday.

Elias Ross, 25, of Zeskinderen, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara died about 03:00h on Saturday morning in the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital.

According to information received, Ross was the frontseat passenger in the car driven by now deceased Torick McClennon when it collided with a lumber-laden truck.

He reportedly suffered a fractured neck, broken bones and lacerations to the head.

As a result of the accident, McClennon was pronounced dead on arrival at the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital while his cousin Calvin McClennon, 21, along with Ross and Hollin Roberts, 22, of Farm, Mahaicony was also

taken to the medical facility.

Due to his injuries, Ross was referred to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted in a critical state.

Roberts was admitted to the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital and McClennon was treated and sent away.

On the day of the fatal accident, McClennon, an Electrical Engineer, and the three passengers were on their way home when he lost control of the motor car and collided head-on with the truck, which was heading in

the opposite direction.

After the collision, the car slammed into a lamp pole. Minutes after the accident, firefighters arrived at the scene and managed to cut the badly injured man from the seat, but it was too late. At the scene, the white Toyota Premio was on the parapet while the truck was parked a short distance away. The bodies of both McClennon and Ross are at the Lyken Funeral Home awaiting post-mortem examinations.

Insuring health workers against Ebola being considered – Health Minister

Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran said though there is no high-level call for insurance for health-care workers being trained here to tackle the Ebola virus should an outbreak occur, the Government has not dismissed the idea out of contemplation.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Dr Ramsaran said the calls being made for insurance are coming primarily out of the health-care sphere.

He pointed out that there has been no “resounding call” for insurance for health-care workers.

But, the Minister said, should there be a strong call for the Government to provide such an insurance policy for health-care workers, deliberations would commence and a fixed or unfixed amount would be arrived at by Cabinet and requisite stakeholders.

If the virus comes here, hospital staff, public health personnel and humanitarian workers would be on the front lines.

Other workers with potential exposure include waste disposal workers, cleaning staff, morticians, laboratory personnel and scientists, airline workers and business travellers.

Now that both nurses who contracted Ebola after treating an infected patient in a Dallas, Texas, USA hospital are seeing general improvements in their health, there is continued discourse and heightened public interest in what legal options are available to them as they contracted the virus on the job.

The nurses, Nina Pham and Amber Vinson, are likely limited to using workers’ compensation and the family of the Ebola patient, Thomas Eric Duncan, faces a challenging legal process as well.

However, although the Ebola virus has not reached these shores, there is growing concern about what compensation package the Government has for the 1600 Ebola healthcare workers it is training to fight the virus.

Should not be dismissed

“The questions surrounding this concern should not be dismissed as health-care workers attempting to fleece the Government, but rather as us looking out for our family members. What happens to my family if I were to die after contracting Ebola on the job? What then? I will tell you what happens, I will be buried and my family will be left to fend for themselves, that’s what will happen and that shouldn’t be.”

That was the view expressed by one nurse working at a city health centre when asked about the prospect of insurance for health-care workers. Both the Government and main Opposition party, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) have admitted that they have not given serious consideration to that aspect of the Ebola preparedness strategy.

On Friday, APNU Member of Parliament (MP), Dr Karen Cummings explained that while the idea was not given any thought, it will now be brought up for discussion at

the party level. She explained that thereafter a decision would be made whether to include the said aspect in a proposal being prepared for the Government. There will also be considerations on how much a person would be entitled to in the event of an outbreak.

Dr Ramsaran was, however, adamant that the worker signing up for the Ebola training programme were doing so as part of a service to humanity and may not be looking forward to any compensation in the event that they become infected.

“All of the workers who have come forward for training have done so on the basis of humanity and compassion,” the Health Minister emphasised. Some health officials have made it clear that at present Guyana has no public health insurance so the workers would not be covered and should not expect any form of compensation.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has said that the Ebola outbreak has been responsible for the deaths of 236 health-care workers, including doctors and nurses who were treating patients in West Africa.

WHO statistics indicate that 96 health-care workers died from Ebola in Liberia, 95 in Sierra Leone, 40 in Guinea, and five in Nigeria.

Overall, more than 400 health-care professionals have been infected with the virus, which suggest that the mortality rate from the disease in those instances could be 50 per cent or more.

Agriculture remains backbone of economy

– MMA Scheme Open Day told

Agriculture remains the backbone of Guyana’s economy, making significant contributions and sustaining the livelihood of many thousands of Guyanese, President Donald Ramotar reminded participants and visitors to the Mahaica, Mahaicony, Abary (MMA) Scheme’s Open Day in Region Five on Friday.

He also highlighted the fact that development of the sector will not only contribute to the development of the nation, but also to battling the problem of food security, which is a global challenge.

The MMA Open Day was held at the Bath Settlement Tarmac and featured displays of produce and projects being undertaken by the agency which administers to state lands used for various agricultural purposes.

“Figures will show that agriculture is about 40 per cent of our national economy and that means that it is extremely important and can help us to move our country forward,” he said.

“Agriculture can help to make Guyana advance fully… Guyana has land, fresh water and very good farmers,” he stated.

The issue of food security is one of growing importance, and the Guyana Government’s aim is to ensure not only that Guyana is food secure, but it could also contribute to that achieving

Former Presidential Adviser on Sustainable Development Navin Chandarpal will be cremated today at the Good Hope Crematorium, East Coast Demerara.

The body of the late Chandarpal will depart the Memorial Gardens and Crematorium (Le Repentir Cemetery) at 08:45h for Freedom House (Robb Street, Georgetown) where a Memorial Service will be held between 09:00h and 09:30h.

The body will then depart People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) headquarters Freedom House at 09:30h, briefly stopping at Red House and the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU) headquarters, before proceeding to the Guyana

for the Caribbean Region and the world.

With more than US$4 billion of food imported by Caricom countries annually, there is great potential for the expansion of local agriculture, he said.

The President had earlier said that it was clear that the region needed a joint agricultural policy that would cater for member states complementing each other, increasing their production and reducing the vulnerability in the sector.

Stressing that efforts are worthwhile towards the creation of wealth for Guyanese, the President at the MMA event noted that this will lead to an improvement in the standard of living in Guyana.

However, for this to happen there must be meaningful returns on investments which could be pushed with the production of cheaper power.

Cheap energy

For Guyana to realise its true potential, the need for cheap electrical power was highlighted by the President, who explained that the subsidies amounting to some $9 billion could be spent on other areas to further Guyana’s development.

Agro-processing and industrial sectors stand to benefit from this, hence, the continued efforts to see the completion of the Amalia

International Conference Centre (Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara).

All those who are desirous of joining the funeral procession are advised to do so by assembling in front of

Falls Hydro-Project (AFHP).

“That project has a huge amount of advantage for the people of our country. Everyone can benefit from that,” he declared.

The AFHP is anticipated to result in substantial savings to the nation’s coffers, particularly in terms of foreign exchange and the purchase of heavy fuel oil.

The President decried the fact that he “does not have a partner in the Opposition” when it comes to pushing developments like these.

Describing Guyana as a “price taker”, President Ramotar explained that Guyana was dependent on the international markets for its fortunes, hence, the need to diversify.

Government has, and will continue to invest in the agricultural sector, he stated, in order to continue its expansion.

Crops such as coconuts, soya and corn have various uses which would add value to their production, and these areas are being explored by the Agriculture Ministry.

All of the investments and transformative projects, the President said, will take Guyana from being a developing middle income country to a developed one, a goal he expressed confidence in achieving possible within his lifetime, once given the chance.

The Head of State pointed out too, that there should be further advancement of farmers’ education along with the application of science and technology.

He acknowledged, however, that moving forward in this area will be challenging, but expressed optimism that: diversification of the sector; the addition of new crops and agriculture products, through the promotion of an agro-industry; as well as advancement of valueadded initiatives will address the challenges in an effective way.

Freedom House, Red House or GAWU Headquarters before 09:30h.

Upon arriving at the Guyana International Conference Centre, the rest of the funeral procession is asked to disembark there as the body proceeds to Chandarpal’s home for a brief private viewing and prayer by his family.

The funeral service for Chandarpal will be held at the Guyana International Conference Centre between 11:00h and 13:45h.

The body will then be taken to the Good Hope Cremation site, East Coast Demerara for final rites and cremation, commencing at 14:30h.

The Queens Atlantic Group expresses its deepest condolences to the bereaved family.

november 2, 2014

Softball Cup 4…

Wolf’s Warriors, Regal XI, Floodlights and Savage are finalists

Wolf’s Warriors and Regal XI will clash in the final of the Open category, while Floodlights and Savage will square off in the championship game of the Masters division today when the curtains come down on the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association’s (GFSCA)/Guyana Softball Cup 4 at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground, Queenstown.

All four teams recorded convincing victories on Saturday when the semifinals were played in the city. The Open competition has a top prize of $800,000, while the Masters finalists are hunting a winner’s purse of $600,000.

In the Open segment, Wolf’s Warriors defeated Farm XI at the Everest ground, while Regal got the better of Petamba Ent. in a match that was played under floodlights at DCC.

In the Masters division, a century from Uniss Yusuf, the third of the competition, spurred Floodlights to a 58-run win over Wellman. Yusuf stroked an unbeaten 104 to join Jagdesh Persaud of East Coast Masters and Lennox Marks of Farm XI as the centurions of the tournament, guiding Floodlight to 198-2 from 15 overs.

Wayne Jones chipped in with 37 and then snared 3-17 as Wellman mustered

140-9 from the allotted overs with S. Persaud scoring 61 not out.

In the other Masters semi-final, Savage blew away Parika Defenders by

nine wickets. W. Seebarran took 4-20 as Parika Defenders made 93-9 from 15 overs, before R. Comacho (37*) and L. Barlow (46) powered Savage to victory at 94-1 in 10.5 overs.

Below are the summarised scores of the final round of preliminary games of the Open category

New York SCL All Star beat South Florida SL by 2 wickets. South Florida 1109 in 15 overs (B. Samaroo 28, Amit Moonsammy

Trophy Stall Angels hunting three-peat today

Trophy Stall Angels will look for a third consecutive title at the Guyana Softball Cup when they contest the female exhibition segment on the final day of the fourth edition of the tournament today at the Demerara Cricket Club ground, Queenstown.

Trophy Stall Angels, who have won the exhibition games two years in a row, will take on Karibee Warriors in what is being dubbed semi-final two. 4R Lioness and Mike’s Wellwoman will play the first semi at 10:30 hours.

These games will complement the finals of the Open and Masters categories of Guyana Softball Cup, which will conclude under the newly installed lights, which were erected by the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association, the organising body of the three-day tournament.

Owner of Trophy Stall Angels, Ramesh Sunich, expressed optimism of his players copping the threepeat, noting that they are eager to once again prove themselves as the softball queens of Guyana.

5-25) New York 113-8 in 15 overs (M.O. Khan 32, S. Ramnauth 3-9).

Regal Stationery beat Parika All Stars by 9 wickets. Parika 82 all out in 11 overs (R. Dutchin 3 wickets)

Regal 84-1 in 17.2 overs (R. Dutchin 42).

Wolf’s Warriors beat Uprisers by 6 wickets. Uprisers 96-9 in 15 overs. Wolf Warriors 97-4 in 11.2 overs (Amit Rai 27).

Corriverton beat Dant’s XI by 3 wickets. Dant’s XI 137 all out in 17.4 overs (J.Garnet and D. Charitar took 3 wickets each) Corriverton 139-7 in 16.4 overs (Latchman 30).

Farm XI beat Cotton Tree Wild Oats by 10 wickets. Cotton Tree 119 all out in 16.4 overs (R. Narine 32, Shafiek Ishmael 4-19)

103-6 in 8.4 overs (B. Deolal 34).

Below are the summarised scores of the final round of preliminary games of the Masters category.

Parika Defenders beat

Legends by 79 runs. Savage 164-8 in 20 overs (V. Moonsammy and N.Baksh 35 each, R. Doobay 3-31) NYSCL 85 all out in 17.2 overs (R.Singh 28, F. Kuyum and N .Seebaran 3 wickets each).

Farm XI 120-0 in 6.3 overs (Patrick Khan 68*, L.Marks 33).

Karibee boys beat Petamba by 4 wickets. Petamba 102-4 in 10 overs (Z. Khan 37) Karibee Boys

Orlando Florida by 9 wickets. Orlando 114-8 in 20 overs (S.Adams 36, R. Rambarose 4-21) Parika 116-1 in seven overs (O. Chandlo 44).

Savage beat NYSC

New York Seaview beat N.Y. President’s by 27 runs. Seaview 127 all out in 18 overs (R. Bishop 35) NY President’s XI 100 all out in 18 overs.

Floodlights beat East

Coast Masters by 6 runs. Floodlights 111 in 15 overs. East Coast Masters 105 in 15 overs.

South Florida C.L. beat Brooklyn/Queens by 124 runs. South Florida 2535 in 20 overs (Gravesande 75, James 49) Brooklyn/ Queens 129-4 in 20 overs (G. Bodan 43).

Wellman beat Regal Masters by 7 wickets. Regal 121 all out in 14.4 overs (L. Ruplall 4-19) Wellman 1233 in 14.3 overs (L.Ruplall 42, S. Persaud 40).

At the conclusion of today’s action, the top teams will be handsomely rewarded, while the Most Valuable Players of both categories will receive a softball bracelets, made of gold and diamond studs, compliments of Steve’s Jewellery.

Two lucky fans also stand a chance to win a trip to Aruba. Admission to the venue is $500.

Letter to the Sport Editor…

Suggestions for solving WI crisis

Dear Editor, I have read and listened to the myriad of exchanges between the parties (WICB, WIPA, BCCI & the WI squad) and the subsequent editorials and other articles from leading media houses and cricket experts and their respective apportionment of blame towards the respective parties. Indeed, the common thread that runs through this entire sordid episode is that this matter should not have been allowed to degenerate to the eventual end result of an aborted tour. I will now seek to address some of the major issues at play here and my suggested steps for resolution of same.

1. Cricket tours, fans and sponsors

Everyone has unanimously agreed that cricket tops everything and absolutely no situation should allow for the abrupt end to a tour such as this, barring weather, war or terrorist activities (WWT) that would put the safety and wellbeing of the players, fans and officials in jeopardy. For this, most of the parties above, with the notable exception of the BCCI, would have to accept some level of blame with the squad bearing the majority of such blame as it was their decision to play or not to play. Whether it was the WI team or any other team, this sort of decision should never be tolerated by any touring or home team ever again in the future. A clear line should be drawn in the sand. Fans and sponsors the world over should never be held to ransom by the whims and fancies of any player(s). The fans and sponsors make the players and the game and richly deserve their enjoyment. Today may be the WICB, tomorrow may be another Board. This must be nipped in the bud and not be allowed to be a precedent for anyone.

2. MOU/CBA-WIPA/ WICB perspective WIPA genuinely seemed to have thought that they had a mandate from their members in February and proceeded to negotiate and sign a legally binding fouryear MOU/CBA (2014-2018) contract with the WICB. The question of whether WIPA indeed had a mandate or not from the players is moot at this point as the contract is already in existence. They are the only representative union or body for the WI players and ought to be treated and respected as such. It is within that spirit that negotiations were conducted and concluded between the WICB and WIPA. The WICB were well within their right to refuse to speak with the players when their union had already signed a contract on their behalf. Whether the players agreed with or were informed about its contents or not prior to its signing is an internal matter for WIPA, they are legal-

ly bound by the terms and conditions of the MOU/CBA. The ball was in WIPA’s court to communicate the contents of this agreement to its members in a timely manner. It may very well be a situation where outside forces were fueling strife between the senior players and their union or a clear case of miscommunication or no opportunity for communication at all.

It is totally unacceptable that the players did not sign the tour contracts prior to embarking on the India tour. WIPA definitely dropped the ball there. There are several reasons mooted here for this sorry state of affairs: that this is the norm and has happened several times before, the players were at Champions League. Whatever the intent or reason for the non-signing, it was totally out of order. Not all of the players were at the Champions League, at least those that were not should have been briefed on the details of the MOU/CBA and the new tour contracts and their signed agreement obtained prior to their departure. Had those 8-10 players signed off on their tour contracts, surely this situation would not have arisen.

3. BCCI/WICB relationship

These two boards have a long, healthy and mutually beneficial relationship and this unwarranted action by the players has surely strained that relationship. The WICB has already issued an unequivocal apology to the BCCI and it is now left to the other culpable parties to issue similar apologies. All efforts should be made to have meaningful dialogue between these two boards aimed at healing this rift. Hopefully, the potential earnings from the substituted Sri Lanka tour would help to offset some of the losses that would have accrued from the aborted WI tour. This situation cries out for mature and prudent analysis and I trust that better sense will prevail and relations will eventually improve, the FTP will continue and be improved upon with more cricket being played to offset any losses and legal action placed on hold. Any sustained legal action could eventually involve WIPA and the players which the BCCI may not be inclined to pursue with the possibility that the poster boys for its IPL being threatened. The world needs a strong WI team on its stage for the sustainability of cricket for generations to come.

4. Implications of MOU/CBA (a) WIPA/senior players

It is rather uncertain whether the senior players have had an ample opportunity to study or seek advices yet on the financial and other implications of the new agreement given that they have publicly stated that they have not yet seen it. How can you justifiably denounce a

document that you have not even examined? This reeks of contradiction and/or outside interference as insinuated earlier. WIPA needs to summon its entire membership to a general meeting at the earliest possible opportunity to fully explain and ventilate all aspects of the current MOU/ CBA and compare same with the previous MOU/CBA. Michael Holding had some very revealing statements to make about that document and these all need to be taken into context when discussing the new document. To its credit, the WICB had honored that agreement until its eventual termination regardless of how flawed and unfair it was perceived to be against the WICB, since it was a legally binding agreement that was tested several times in the judicial system. During that time, WIPA never came to the table to discuss but filed lawsuit after lawsuit.

(b) WI First Class players

Never before has the future of West Indies cricket looked better with the contracting of 105 players throughout the region and a professional run franchise league being administered regionally with all players earning decent salaries enough to make cricket a career rather than a favorite past time.

5. The Future

I agree with Tony Cozier that the storm clouds are beginning to lift. The worst has past us, let’s get up, dust ourselves off and move on. I think most of the players would have had some quality time to deliberate on their actions and have now realised the repercussions and the folly of same. Administrators would also have had their time to assess where things went wrong and take steps to ensure there is never a repeat of such situations.

We need to immediately get into damage control mode. WIPA needs to get its house in order and have a SGM at its earliest opportunity.

WICB needs to engage the BCCI in earnest dialogue on the way forward. The WICB needs to select its best team to tour SA and immediately short list its squad for the World Cup. The territorial franchises need to contract the first class players soonest.

It was really refreshing to hear Marlon Samuels publicly saying that this current WI team management was the best that he has ever worked with. Let’s put aside our differences and work towards the overall development of WI cricket.

We all trust that these steps would be taken post haste and the glory days of WI cricket in the 80s and the 90s would be returned sooner rather than later.

Yours faithfully,

Raj Singh

Persaud leads male...

Patanjilee Persaud leads the Third Flight (1928 handicap) with gross 87 (net 60), ahead of Mahendra Bhagwandin gross 91 (net 65) and Richard Hanif gross 94 (net 73).

Joaan Deo closed the day with gross 94, while Webster has a gross 96. Eight-time champion Christine Sukhram ended the day with a net 75 and gross 84 with the other female player, Juliet Prince, finishing with a net 78 and a gross 114.

Meanwhile, the 64 registered starters were sent on their way by Chief Executive Officer of Digicel (Guyana), Gregory Dean, who performed the first tee to signal the commencement of the two-day tournament.

Dean said his company is pleased to be associated with the Lusignan Golf Club to host the esteemed competition for the second year, as he wished the players well during the championship.

President of the Lusignan Golf Course, David Mohamad in his brief welcoming remarks, expressed gratitude to the telecommunication company for embracing the Guyana Open, noting that

support is vital for the growth and development of the sport.

Force India make US Grand Prix boycott threat

Force India say they are considering boycotting the US Grand Prix in protest at a failure to address what they see as a financial crisis in Formula 1.

The smaller teams are struggling to make ends meet and believe the split of revenues, which is skewed in favour of the top teams, is to blame.

The Marussia and Caterham teams have recently gone into administration.

Force India said they, Lotus and Sauber could make a stand by skipping the race in Austin but Lotus

dismissed the talk.

Force India deputy team principal Bob Fernley said: "The bottom three teams are considering it."

But asked whether the boycott threat was real, Lotus trackside operations director Alan Permane said: "It's not real from us. It's not even been thought about or discussed."

Lotus team principal and owner Gerard Lopez said: "Unless someone breaks and engine or a gearbox, there are going to be 18 cars on the grid tomorrow."

Force India team principal Vijay Mallya told BBC Sport he endorsed Lopez's

remarks.

Lopez added: There is a lot of frustration up and down the paddock. It is a big thing but some people have probably tried to make a conspiracy theory about it. For sure we're going to race this weekend and that's it.

"We now need to stop talking about stuff and do something. I hope something can be done in the next couple of weeks."

And the chances of Sauber not racing must be considered very small after their driver Adrian Sutil made it into the top 10 in qualifying for the first time this year. (BBC Sport)

BCCI demands $42m in damages from WICB

Calling West Indies' pull-out midway into the India tour a "monumental disaster", the BCCI has slapped a US$41.97m damages claim on the WICB. The BCCI also suspended bilateral relations with the WICB till the dispute was resolved, and threatened legal action if the West Indies board didn't respond within 15 days.

Scheduled to play five ODIs, a Twenty20 and three Tests, the West Indies players pulled out of the series after the fourth ODI in Dharamsala on October 17. They cited the failure of West Indies Players' Association (WIPA) and WICB to respond convincingly to their questions related to the memorandum of understanding and collective bargaining agreement signed by the two parties in September.

In a a stern four-page letter addressed to WICB president Dave Cameron, a copy of which is in possession of ESPNcricinfo, BCCI secretary Sanjay Patel on Friday indicated that if the WICB failed to respond within 15 days about how it intended to compensate the losses in "acceptable terms", the BCCI would initiate legal proceedings. "Pending resolutions of all disputes the BCCI suspends all bilateral cricketing relations with the WICB," Patel's letter stated.

Patel's missive arrived even as Cameron and senior WICB officials were engaged in meetings with players and WIPA in Trinidad to resolve the dispute. The meeting was facilitated by Prime Minister of St Vincent, Ralph

Gonsalves, who helped resolve the dispute between Chris Gayle and the WICB three years ago.

As soon as Dwayne Bravo, the West Indies ODI captain, said that the players would be forced to take extreme steps unless they got clear answers from WIPA and WICB regarding the new MoU/CBE, Patel said the BCCI understood the seriousness of the issue and attempted to avert the debacle.

Patel pointed out that Bravo and his team-mates continued to play till the fourth ODI only because of the intervention by him and the other senior BCCI officials.

Patel stressed that the consequences of the West Indies pullout were "multifold and crippling" to the Indian board. "The BCCI is faced with huge revenue losses, a loss of reputation and is at risk of losing valuable commercial partners," Patel wrote. "The consequences of cancellation of a committed home Tour during the biggest festival season Diwali in India is a monumental disaster for the BCCI. It is during this season that our partners derive the most value from their rights.

"Our broadcaster had committed to its advertisers during this season and on account of your actions, is facing a severe crisis the effects of which are felt by the BCCI. The BCCI holds the WICB responsible and liable for all such consequences and intends to enforce its rights to seek compensation from the WICB to the fullest extent permissible in law." (Cricinfo)

Pakistan strengthen grip on Australia

Pakistan moved closer to their first Test series win over Australia since 1994 after dismissing the tourists for 261 on day three in Abu Dhabi.

Seamer Imran Khan, in only his second Test, finished with 3-60 and only Mitchell Marsh (87), who hit 13 fours and a six, passed 50 for Australia.

Ahead by 309, Pakistan did not enforce the followon and lost early wickets but closed on 61-2, a lead of 370.

They lead the twomatch series 1-0 after winning by 221 runs in Dubai.

After nearly two days toiling in the field, Australia

SCOREBOARD

Pakistan 1st innings

570-6 declared Australia 1st innings

Warner c Yasir Shah

b Rahat Ali 19

Rogers c Sarfraz Ahmed

b Khan 5

Lyon b Rahat Ali 15

Maxwell b Zulfiqar Babar 37

Clarke b Khan 47

Smith lbw b Zulfiqar Babar 0

M Marsh c Rahat Ali b Khan 87

Haddin b Yasir Shah 10

Johnson c Hafeez b Yasir Shah 0

Siddle c Yasir Shah b Hafeez 28

Starc not out 0

Extras: (7-nb, 6-lb) 13

Total: (all out; 67.2 overs) 261

Bowling: Khan 14-1-60-3,

Hafeez 5.2-0-13-1, Zulfiqar Babar 25-5-94-2, Rahat Ali 9-041-2, Yasir Shah 14-2-47-2

Fall of wickets: 21 (Rogers), 34 (Warner), 75 (Maxwell), 97 (Lyon), 100 (Smith), 164 (Clarke), 193 (Haddin), 199 (Johnson), 261 (M Marsh), 261 (Siddle)

Pakistan 2nd Innings

Shehzad b Johnson 14

Hafeez c Starc b Johnson 3 Azhar Ali not out 21

Younus Khan not out 16

Extras: (7-b) 7

Total: (for 2 wickets; 21 overs) 61

Bowling: Johnson 3-0-292, Lyon 10-3-19-0, Starc 5-2-6-0, Siddle 3-3-0-0

Fall of wickets: 14 (Shehzad), 21 (Hafeez)

began the day on 22-1 and lost David Warner in the fifth over of the morning, while Pakistan successfully reviewed an lbw decision to dismiss Steve Smith for a duck to make it 100-5 before lunch.

Skipper Michael Clarke (47) added 64 with Marsh for the sixth wicket and looked decisive against the spinners.

But three runs short of his 28th Test half-century, the 33-year-old fell to Imran’s reverse swing as a delivery curved back from outside the off stump and went between bat and pad.

Marsh fell 13 runs short of his maiden Test century in only his second ap-

pearance, hitting a full toss from Imran to mid-on. Johnson, who destroyed England with 37 wickets in Australia’s 5-0 whitewash last winter, was hit for two fours and a six in the first five balls of the Pakistan innings by Ahmed Shehzad. He bowled him with a rapid yorker next ball and also beat Mohammad Hafeez for pace in his next over. But Pakistan record Test century-maker Younus Khan, who has made two hundreds and a double ton in his last three innings, finished unbeaten on 16 and now has 438 runs to his name in the short series. (BBC Sport)

Barca suffer shock 1-0 defeat by Celta Vigo

Barcelona suffered their first home La Liga defeat of the season as they were beaten by Celta Vigo at the Nou Camp.

The visitors took a surprise lead in the second half when Joaquin Larrivey finished after Nolito’s backheel.

ASwitzerland-based amateur footballer has been banned for 50 years after kicking a ball in the referee’s face and spraying him with water.

Portugal Futebol Clube defender Ricardo Ferreira has already served a 45game ban for assaulting opposition players.

“I had expected one or two years maximum. But 50 years? Football’s my life,” Ferreira, 28, said.

The fourth-tier league’s lawyer Robert Breiter said: “We do not want such a player in our league.”

Speaking to Swiss newspaper Blick (in German), Breiter continued: “Unfortunately we encounter such cases about once a year.”

Worb in the Bern league when he attacked the referee after the final whistle.

Luis Enrique’s Barcelona side hit the woodwork four times, with Lionel Messi and Neymar both being frustrated twice.

Luis Suarez, making his home debut, had two chances to score an equaliser, but missed with a header and had an effort saved by goalkeeper Sergio Alvarez.

It means Suarez has lost in both of the competitive matches he has played for Barcelona since joining from Liverpool for £75m. After serving a fourmonth suspension for biting Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini during the World Cup, the Uruguayan striker made his first appearance for Barcelona in their 3-1 El Clasico defeat away at Real Madrid last Saturday. Barcelona missed out on winning La Liga by three points last season and will hope this result does not prove crucial at the end of the campaign. (BBC Sport)

Chelsea move clear of Man City

LFerreira had been an unused substitute in his team’s match against SC

Ferreira will be free to return to footballing activity on 5 June 2064, by which time

eaders Chelsea moved nine points clear of title rivals Manchester City as a sublime finish by Oscar helped overcome a determined QPR 2-1 at Stamford Bridge. The Brazil midfielder lashed home a firsttime low, angled drive with the outside of his boot from 12 yards after being set up by Cesc Fabregas.

Charlie Austin levelled when back-heeling Leroy Fer’s shot into the net.

But Eden Hazard’s penalty, after the Belgian was fouled by Eduardo Vargas, won it for Chelsea.

Premier League champions City will reduce the gap to six points if they beat neighbours United in the Manchester derby on Sunday. (BBC Sport) Footballer handed 50-year ban after referee attack

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Petra/Courts Pee Wee football… St Pius, Stella maris through to semi-finals after penalty kicks

Defending champions

St Pius Primary are one step closer to retaining their title, following a hard-fought win on penalties against F.E. Pollard as quarter-final action in the annual Petra Organisation/ Courts Pee Wee football competition continued on Saturday at the Banks DIH ground, Thirst Park.

The St Puis lads have been joined by Stella Maris, who also won on penalties against St Margaret’s, South Ruimveldt and former champions Tucville in the ‘final four’, which will be contested on Saturday at the same venue.

St Pius edged F.E. Pollard 4-3 on sudden death penalty kicks after regula-

tion and extra time failed to separate the teams. F.E. Pollard seemed on course to end St Pius’ reign when Quincy Williams scored in the second minute of play.

St Pius found the equaliser however, through a Brendon Solomon’s 26th minute strike.

The Stella Maris/St Margaret’s game was carbon-copy, ending 1-1 at the end of regulation and extra time before the former team won 4-3 on penalties. During regulation time, Stella Maris benefitted from an own goal in the 10th minute, before St Margaret’s levelled the contest 10 minutes after through Josiah King.

In the other two quarter-final games, South Ruimveldt, led by a Royston Louisy 8th minute strike,

West Demerara T20 cricket final…

Invaders

outplay

needled West Ruimveldt 1-0, while a Kevaughn Adams’ third minute goal was all that was needed by Tucville to cruise past St Angela’s. In the Plate competition (places 9-16), East La Penitence defeated Enterprise 3-0; North Georgetown defeated Marian Academy 7-6 on penalties after a 1-1 draw; Green Acres defeated Smith’s Memorial 2-1; and St Stephen’s prevailed 2-0 over Ketley.

For another week, the venue was filled with cheering teachers, parents and students, while representatives of the main sponsor, Courts (Guyana) Inc., as well as officials of the Petra Organisation and Banks DIH Limited were also on hand to witness the action.

Independence

‘A’ in high-scoring thriller

Invaders defeated Independence ‘A’ to clinch the West Demerara T20 final last Saturday at the Joe Vieira Park cricket ground, West Demerara. Batting first, Independence ‘A’ made 178 all out when their 20 overs ended.

S. Ramdat made 26 (1x6, 2x4s), M. Dhanpaul 26 (1x6, 3x4s) and D. Alert 23 (1x6, 2x4s) were the main contributors with the bat. The top wicket takers for Invaders were A. Azim with 3-35, Avinash Dhaniram 3-23 and Vaickash Dhaniram 2-38. Invaders started positively and eventually won with as many as five overs to spare.

Captain Vaickash Dhaniram smashed an attractive 77, which include 10 sixes and two fours. He was supported by Kheimraj Ramsundar 20 (3x4s) and K.Tulcan 20 (2x6s, 1x4).

J.Payton picked up 5-40 in a losing cause.

Prior to the final, West Coast Demerara defeated West Bank Demerara in an exhibition contest. West Coast Demerara batted first and muscled 1824 off their allotted 20 overs. Bisram Thomas smashed 60

(7x6s, 1x4). He received support from Imtiaz Hack with 48 not out (3x6s, 1x4) and Muneshwar Balgobin 30 (3x6s, 2x4s). The most successful bowler was Brain Pooran, who had figures of 2-26. When West Bank Demerara took strike, they were bundled out for a mere 92 runs. Delroy Faranas and Sanjay Persaud were the main contributors with the bat making 19 (1x6, 1x4) and 15 (1x4) respectively.

Seventeen-year-old Akshaya Persaud, who also captained the West Coast Demerara team, was the chief destroyer, recording exception figures of seven wickets for a mere nine runs from 3.2 overs. It was Persaud’s third seven-wicket haul of his young career. He previously captured 7-7 and 7-1.

GT&T Indoor Hockey Championships...

Flawless Hikers outplay Under-19s 6-4

Jamarj Assanah owned the show when the Hikers Men’s first division team came up against the youthful Under-19 nationals in their high paced duel as the GT&T National Indoor Championships resumed on Friday evening at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue.

The Hikers showed why they are top of the table and remained unbeaten in the Men’s first division by upstaging the Under-19s 6-4. Assanah’s penalty corner goal for the Hikers in the eighth minute fueled a relentless battle between the two sides as Aroydy Branford replied just one minute

later by evading two Hikers’ defenders and sending his diving shot high into the net.

Assanah showed his quality once again as he capped off a blistering counterattack with a wellplaced shot to give Hikers a 2-1 lead in the 11th minute. Colonel Heywood joined the Hikers goal charge as he extended the lead by one four minutes later.

Although the Under-19s, led by an Aroydy Branford hat-trick and Keon McKenzie lone strike, fought bravely, the Hikers controlled the match and the score. It was Assanah who fittingly scored the final goal of the match,

following a double by veteran Devin Hooper.

In the other Men’s first division battle, Old Fort showed Saints their class as they cruised to a 4-0 victory. Chris Low netted a double for Old Fort, while Shaquille Thomas and Andy Gouveia, who scored the goal of the match with lightening reflexes to be first on the end of a crossed ball, rounded out the score sheet.

The Tigers maintained their dominance in the Ladies competition with their second 9-0 victory of the competition, this time at the expense of Old Fort Shooting Stars. Ashley DeGroot, Aliyah

Gordon and Kerensa Fernandes each scored doubles, while Ulrica Sutherland, Trisha Woodroffe and Shebiki Baptiste completed the sheet with one each.

The Hikers Ladies staved off an early scare against the Under-19 Minis by recovering from a three-goal deficit to draw even just three minutes from full time. After an Aliyah Gordon double and Macaela Harding single for the Minis, the Hikers had to dig deep, led by two penalty corner goals from seniors Maria Munroe and Latoya Fordyce, to recover the deficit.

Dynamic young striker

Latacea Chung saved embarrassment for the experienced Hikers when she netted a pass to draw even at 3-3 just before the final whistle.

Old Fort picked up the full three points in the Men’s second division, giving GCC their first loss by a 3-2 margin. The two clubs would return to draw their match-up in the Veteran’s competition 3-3, keeping both their hopes alive for a place in the final.

The Hikers lead the Men’s first division competition going into the penultimate day with six points, followed by Old Fort and the Under-19 Nationals on four each. GCC have three points and Saints are yet to secure a point.

The Ladies competition sees the GCC Tigers on top with nine points followed by Spice on six. The Hikers and Under-19 Minis follow with four points each and the Old Fort Shooting Stars on zero.

The Men’s second division competition finds Old Fort with nine points followed by GCC on six. The Hikers have secured three points, while Saints and Kingston are yet to get off the mark.

The Veteran’s competition sees GCC in the lead with five points, Hickers on three and Old Old Fort on two.

MCY&S/EBFA U-13 League…

Unbeaten Grove Hi Tech claim title

Grove Hi Tech Football Club continued their dominance of football of the East Bank of Demerara by adding the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports (MCY&S) sponsored East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Under-13 League champion’s trophy to their 2014 collection.

This is the club’s fourth title in as many tournaments under the auspices of the EBFA for 2014 having already added the Trophy Stall Under-15, Cult Under-17 and Stag Beer Division One League titles.

Grove sealed the title in their last game when they hammered Kuru Kururu Warriors 6-2 to win their fifth consecutive match. Joint leading goal scorers Threvon Pluck (52nd, 56th) and Kevin Padmore (25th, 46th) netted a dou -

ble each to end the one round league with five goals apiece.

‘B’ House wins Mortice Inter-school sports

After a day of intense action, ‘B’ House won the Mortice Primary School Inter-house track and field competition on Friday at the school’s playground, Mortice Branch Road, East Coast Demerara.

The eventual winners edged ‘A’ House by two points, ending on 151 points as against 149. Subrina Girjawattie and Prasandeo Mangal were adjudged champion girl and boy respectively.

After the day’s event,

Grade Six teacher and cricket commentator, Inderjeet Persaud, said the activity was a huge success, adding that all 39 events planned for the day were keenly contested.

He also thanked the Regional Administration and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport in assisting to fill the playground. Various schools and zones across Guyana continue to prepare for the National Schools’ Championships, scheduled to be held this month.

Rasheed Evans also netted a brace; he was on target in the 35th and

37th minute. Kuru Kururu Warriors got their goals form Jonathan Bailey who opened the scoring in the 15th minute; Kevon Scott converted the other in the

40th minute.

Agricola triumphed over Diamond United by a 2-1 margin, compliments of goals from Michael English (35th) and Keon Narine, five minutes later. Diamond got their goal compliments of an own goal by Agricola.

Herstelling Raiders won via the walkover route from Kuru Kururu Warriors; the latter team would be their final game against Diamond on Saturday at the Grove Community ground from 11:00 hours. It would be the final game of the league, which would be followed by the presentation of prizes.

The top four teams would all receive trophies with medals going to the top two teams. Medals will also be presented to the Most Valuable Player, leading goal scorers and best goalkeeper.

Persaud leads male segment; Deo/Webster joint female leaders

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Four-time champion

Avinash Persaud, by virtue of winning the best gross on Saturday, is in the lead after day one of the prestigious Digicel Guyana Open golf tournament at the Lusignan Golf Course, East Coast Demerara. On the distaff side, Joaan Deo and Shanella Webster are joint leaders with a net of 74 each. The tournament is being played in four categories: First Flight (0-9 handicap), Second Flight (10-18), Third Flight (19-28) and the

Wolf’s Warriors, Regal

Mike Tyson says he was sexually abused as a child

– he may have been a fierce boxer as an adult but Mike Tyson has revealed that as a child, he was sexually abused on the streets by an adult male

FLadies Flight.

However, according to Lusignan Golf Club president, David Mohamad, this year the winner in the male category can emerge from the 0-9, 10-18 or 19-28 flights. The male player with the best gross after the two days will be crowned champion, while the female winner will be the one with the best net.

Persaud finished the day on gross 74 (net 72) and has set the stage for an interesting final day today in the 0-9 handicap. Imran Khan is also in contention for top honours after scoring a gross 79 (net 72), while Brain Glasford finished with a gross 81 (net 72).

In the Second Flight (10-18 handicap), Seapaul Suknanan has assumed pole position with gross 76 (net 65), but is closely followed by Roy Cummings with gross 79 (net 69), while Colin Ming closed the day with gross 84 (net 70).

ormer heavyweight champion Mike Tyson was sexually abused when he was seven years old by a stranger on the street, he told US radio.

The 48-year-old former boxer said an adult male grabbed him.

"He bullied me, sexually abused me and stuff... snatched me off the street.

I was a little kid," he told Sirius XM Radio.

Tyson said he never saw the man again and never reported the incident to his parents or the police.

"It was nobody's business to know. I just lived my life," he said, during an interview to promote his new TV show.

Tyson did not elaborate on what effect the abuse had on him, and said he does not feel any shame about what happened.

"I don't always remember, maybe I do but I don't. I'm not embarrassed or ashamed from that perspective," he said.

Tyson made history in 1986 when at age 20 he became the youngest boxer ever to hold a world heavy-

weight title.

The legendary boxer won 50 out of 58 matches during his illustrious career, including 44 by knockout.

He has also made headlines for scandals, notably in 1992, when he was convicted for the rape of a teenage beauty queen.

He served three years of a six-year sentence. Later, in 1997, he bit a chunk out of opponent Evander Holyfield's ear.

He also has convictions for assault, cocaine possession and driving under the influence. (ndtv.com)