Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Stiffer penalties needed for serious traffic offenders, court needs to be consistent – Road Safety executive

By Abena Rockcliffe Retired Major General Norman McLean, an executive member of the National Road Safety Council (NRSC), yesterday called for the courts to be “consistent” in its rulings and opined that enforcement of traffic laws and mass edification about them is the collaborative key to significantly reducing road fatalities in Guyana.

The former Army Chief was addressing the year’s first press briefing of the NRSC at its Secretariat, located at the Guyana Red Cross Building, Barrack Street, Kingston.

McLean, who was once the Traffic Chief, categorically condemned the inconsistent rulings being handed down by the court. “You see persons being placed on $100,000 and 200,000 bail for theft, but persons who are responsible for loss of lives due to road accidents being granted bail as low as 10,000.”

He said that stiffer penalties need to be handed down to serious traffic offenders “simply because lives are involved”.

NRSC’s Coordinator Ramona Doorgen disclosed that the road fatalities figures

From left: NRSC Coordinator Ramona Doorgen, Traffic Chief, Hugh Denhert, NRSC Chairman Nigel Erskine, Treasurer Colvern Venture and Executive member Norman McLean have been decreasing over the years. It was explained that if the rate continues to decline, Guyana could see a 50% deduction by 2020.

However, that favourable trend does not seem to be continuing this year, as 12 fatalities have already been recorded so far as opposed to 10 during the same period in 2012. Doorgen spoke of the programmes that the organisation has been

carrying out in schools and emphasised that”we always include the Guyana Police Force Traffic department in everything we do.” She pledged that this year the NRSC has plans to take sensitisation about road safety to another level.

The coordinator informed media operatives that most of the road fatalities last year were as a result of accidents involving motorcycles,

therefore, plans are in place to focus more on riders. She said that the police also have a plan to target the aforementioned.

Recently appointed Traffic Chief, Hugh Denhert, who said that his aim is to reduce road fatalities to below 100 per year, was questioned as to why a 17-year-old involved in a fatal accident over the weekend has to date only been charged with

driving under the influence as opposed to causing death by dangerous driving. The officer responded that the police are still carrying out investigations and the youth remains in custody. He explained that it was already proven that the teen was driving under the influence; hence that charge. But after he was placed on bail by the court the police apprehended him again and are continuing

to investigate the incident and more charges are imminent. Pointing to the fact that education about road safety has been ongoing for more than 64 years, Denhert was faced with the question as to why he thinks education is still the answer as against, according to veteran journalist Francis Farrier, “locking these people up and throwing away the key.”

The traffic chief responded that education has been proven to be important and it “must” continue to play an integral part in the fight against road fatalities and road safety irregularities.

He used the opportunity to state that it is extremely important that the traffic department becomes more equipped with “modern” testing equipment.

Farrier challenged Denhert as new traffic chief, to “put a stop to touting on the bus park.” The journalist said that it encourages the possibility of accidents “when one bus just shoots past another and blocks him off just to get passengers faster.”

Denhert said that addressing “touting” has been an ongoing exercise for the traffic department.

DO YOU KNOW THAT JAGDEO’S BEST FRIEND IS THE ONLY PERSON IN GUYANA TO OWN THREE MEDIA HOUSES ...

Radio, Television and Newspaper?

Dr. Bobby Ramroop

1) Channel 28 now TVG 28 2) A radio station - 89.5FM 3) Guyana Times newspaper

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Kaieteur News

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17 NOC youths certified to enter world of work Selected students at the New Opportunity Corps (NOC) are now furnished with skills to enter the world of work, through an ambitious initiative spearheaded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)’s Skills and Knowledge for Youth Employment (SKYE) Project.

The project, which was done in collaboration with Youth Challenge Guyana (YCG), came to an official end yesterday with a total of 17 students receiving certificates to indicate that they are equipped with skills for the world of work or as entrepreneurs.

They were subjected to six weeks of intense training which has complemented the existing programmes offered at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s NOC Onderneeming, Essequibo Coast, facility.

Entitled ‘Work Readiness’, the project was implemented by YCG and spanned the period November 20, 2012 through February 1, 2013, with all candidates being certified at a simple ceremony yesterday.

Speaking at the ceremony, Executive Director of YCG, Dmitri Nicholson, lauded the efforts of the students to

The graduating NOC students being addressed yesterday commit and complete the training, since according to him, it would give them a better chance in their respective pursuits.

“You will be able to be sound examples for other youths, by showing them that young people can achieve many things. It is not every day that we hear that our young people are achieving wonderful things,” he stated, pointing out that there are many reports of youths’ involvement in crimes, drugs and other negative things in

their communities.

“So we know that your example will help other youths to see that they can create changes if they stick to the goals that they create for themselves,” he insisted.

Echoing Nicholson’s conviction, USAID Programme Management Specialist, Chloe Noble, said that the main objective of the project was to ensure that youths are afforded the necessary tools in order to utilise their own unique skills, creativity and potential so that

they can achieve success in life. She noted that while the work that was undertaken during the course of the project was challenging, it was in fact “one step towards furthering your development and it was a very important step.”

Noble alluded to the fact that not only are the graduates now better able to communicate with others, but the knowledge that they have gained will certainly serve to ensure that they have an improved attitude towards the

working environment.

“These are important skills for you to become better individuals and to help you to become more productive as well,” Noble told the graduates. She pointed to the fact that the determination that was exhibited during the course of the project, coupled with the skills that were transferred, can help them to move forward as young adults.

“Now is the time for you to practice what you have learnt and practice it every day...and as the saying goes, if you don’t use it, you lose it.”

Recognising the USAID project as a very beneficial one, NOC’s Acting Administrator, Brian King, in brief remarks, said that he himself was able to benefit from the programme last year.

Moreover, he said that the training that was offered represents an alternative to what is already being offered at the institution, which is aimed at providing to those within its care new opportunities to help improve their lives. Presently, he said, the NOC offers its students skills training in nine subject areas. “This project will help the students to have more hands-on training and more real knowledge of financing, because we don’t look at

financing and we do not look at budgeting,” King stressed, adding that the participating students were able to excel because of the foundation that they were previously exposed to by NOC instructors.

The ‘Work Readiness’ project was designed to transfer a set of basic employability skills, knowledge and behaviour, which are specific skill sets identified as priorities by Guyana’s employment sector, according to USAID’s Programme Manager, Tomaisha Hendricks.

She explained that the move is one of several inputs to assist youths to gain the selfconfidence necessary to find and sustain employment.

Moreover, through the USAID SKYE project, youths within the NOC will receive support to facilitate reintegration into their communities, following their departure from the facility.

As such, the project focused on expanding employment, education and other opportunities for at-risk youths; reintegrating youth offenders into society; supporting diversion and alternative sentencing for youth within the justice system and strengthening the environment for youth development in Guyana.

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Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

Republicanism: Civic virtue and corruption Later this month, we will be commemorating our Republic Day (even though most might be excused for believing that we are actually celebrating “Mashramani”).

Leading up to February 23, we shall be intermittently utilising this space to remind our citizens as to what “Republicanism” is all about. They should then reflect as to what “Mash” has to do with Republican values.

The following is excerpted from the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy.

Among the more salient themes in the classical republican tradition are the importance of civic virtue and the dangers of corruption. We may understand the term ‘corruption’ simply to mean the advancement of personal or sectional interest at the expense of the public good, and ‘civic virtue’ as its opposite—that is, a willingness to do one’s part in supporting the public good. Critics of republicanism often fear that this implies extensive selfsacrifice and frugality, a renunciation of individuality and self-identification with the community.

Civic republicans accordingly have been at pains to show the contrary—that civic virtue should be understood as a strictly instrumental good, useful in establishing and maintaining republican liberty. Far from calling for the subjection of individual to collective aims, they argue, republican liberty is desirable in part because it enables citizens to pursue their private aims with assurances of security.

Broadly speaking, there are two topics to consider under the heading of civic virtue. On the one hand, there is the civic virtue and danger of its corruption on the part of public officials; on the other, there is the civic virtue and danger of its corruption on the part of citizens in general. With respect to the former, republicans typically reject the view that public officials are by nature corrupt, and instead view individuals as potentially corruptible, but not necessarily corrupt.

Working from this assumption, it is a strictly pragmatic and empirical question what configuration of public laws, institutions, and norms are most likely to minimize the danger of corruption, and enhance the civic virtue of public officials. Options here include screening procedures on the selection of officials, rules and norms keeping some policy options out of bounds, and both positive and negative sanctions. In designing such institutions, it is important not to assume the worst of people, for otherwise we might inadvertently encourage the very corrupt behaviour one aims to guard against.

Promoting civic virtue on the part of the citizens in general, however, is just as important from a republican point of view. There are a variety of possible reasons for this. For the most part, they stem from the observation that the widespread enjoyment of republican liberty is most likely to be maximized in a community where the citizens are committed to that ideal, and each is willing to do his or her part in realizing it.

Promoting this sort of commitment to republican ideals will require a fairly robust programme of civic education, together with a culture that rewards virtue with public esteem. Again, it should be emphasized here that citizens do not enjoy republican freedom, on the civic republican view, by being virtuous.

Indeed, this could not be the case since, as argued earlier, the degree of republican freedom enjoyed is rather a question of how the laws, institutions, and norms of the community are ordered. Civic virtue is, however, instrumentally useful both in bringing about the right sorts of laws, institutions, and norms, and in ensuring their durability and reliability on the other.

Finally, it is worth mentioning the connection between civic virtue (both on the part of public officials and citizens in general) and the rule of law. The significance of the rule of law was expressed as the “empire of law” ideal—the notion that in a free republic laws, not men, rule.

This requires that the law be widely regarded as clear, predictable, and legitimate, and this in turn is possible only when there is a generally high level of compliance and when legal rules are embedded in a shared network of informal social norms.

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Letters... Where your views make the news Letters...

The communities of yesteryear are no more

DEAR EDITOR I wish to thank those media houses which saw the merit of publishing my letter of Saturday, February 01 2013 and also those readers whose e-mails and phone calls indicated that the contents had resonance with them.

My contribution today is more in response to a letter published in the media of Monday, February 4, 2013, in which the writer stated that he anticipated hearing of “a Joe Singh Creative Partnership Initiative”, to tackle the dysfuntionalities referred to in my letter.

I wish to point out that finding the solutions to the issues is not the preserve of one man and I did emphasise the role of the citizenry within our country and specifically in our communities, in accepting a collective responsibility to make a positive impact on the deteriorating standards, by ensuring a collective response.

If indeed it is true that within our communities we manifest some or all of the negative trends which I catalogued in my letter, the solutions lie to a great extent within each community.

As an example, after the 2005 Great Flood, the lower East Coast Demerara villages grouped themselves, elected a Steering Committee comprising community and religious leaders, and commenced an

environmental clean-up campaign to remove debris deposited by the flood.

This community effort was so successful that post flood clean up, it was sustained with outreach programmes in the schools and a start was made in addressing other issues of concern to the residents. The success achieved by this community-based and community-led initiative was so encouraging that other distant communities were invited to share in the experiences of the lower East Coast Demerara Community.

A model was identified whereby the lessons learnt could be shared with other communities that wished to adopt or adapt the model to the particular community’s circumstances, since no two communities are exactly alike.

The point here, also, is that Communities were empowering themselves to deal with issues that affected their well being and by so doing it engendered a spirit of oneness, which went beyond mere cleaning up of garbage.

I am convinced that there are persons within every community who have the leadership skills, experience and presence to enjoy the confidence and trust of their fellow villagers. After all, this is the genesis of the functioning Village Councils of yester year, where persons were elected to the Council

based on their residency, their trustworthiness and their ability to set the example and to motivate others.

This was the era of the Village Overseer, the Community Ranger and the Sanitary Inspector, who, along with the Dispenser, Agricultural Officer, Postmaster, Headmaster and Religious Leaders, had a commitment to ensure the efficiency of services, the maintenance of infrastructure, the education of youth, the health and well being of residents, enforcement of anti-truancy measures and promotion of sports and cultural activities. There was a level of accountability integral to their stewardship.

Times have changed.

Institutions that were working at the time of Independence were retooled, politicised and centralised and we the people became alienated from these grass roots structures because most were unrepresentative of the communities.

Citizens then spent more time looking after themselves and those with the resources, created their own safe havens, in splendid isolation from the realities of community life – the infiltration by the narco traffickers, the rise of truancy among youth, the increasing incidence of absentee fathers, the dilemma of mothers who by default became the breadwinners of the family, the deteriorating

infrastructure because of ‘fly by night’ contractors, and the rise of sub-cultures that attracted the ‘youth men and women’.

Our institutional structures for local governance have been eroded or their significance diminished and there are strident calls for local government reform to allow for the restoration of we the peoples’ role in selecting our local government representatives from persons resident in our communities, who have the leadership skills and integrity to manage on behalf of the communities, matters relating to their welfare, well being and their development.

While advocacy increases for such reform to be incorporated in the new legislation, it is imperative that communities demonstrate that the reform will not merely be a paper exercise.

We must accept our collective responsibility now and demonstrate that we have the capacity, commitment and desire to uplift this country that we call home. We must empower ourselves to arrest the slide and demand much of ourselves and of those in authority, who are elected to serve us.

Yours faithfully Joseph G Singh Major General (retd)

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Kaieteur News

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Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news

The rejected continue to question the legitimate DEAR EDITOR We note a few members of the dysfunctional IMC making public pronouncements about the legality of the AGM of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) held on Sunday January 27, 2013, it was observed by the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB).

These continuous reckless and wild comments are being given undue widespread publicity, mostly in the state media, without any opportunity being afforded to the GCB to respond. These gentlemen along with a few Ministers of the Government continue to make irresponsible and misleading statements to members of the public.

I call on these persons to desist from creating confusion and work together with the GCB to bring some order to the cricketing fraternity. These guys are abusing their power over some sections of the media to promote their agenda.

I trust that this letter would be given similar and equal prominence and would refrain from sending it to the Guyana Chronicle and the Times since it would not be published Mr.Claude Raphael has been the Chairman of the national selectors and a WICB Director for a long period. His tenure as selector coincided with the decline in the fortunes of the Guyana cricket team. Ever since his departure from this selectoral position in 2011, amazingly, there has been a notable improvement in the performance and results of all of the Guyana teams that represented us at the WICB Regional tournaments.

The readers can draw their own conclusions from this established fact. Mr. Raphael sat on the GCB for over a decade and lost his WICB directorship in 2009 through a democratic process but has been extremely peeved ever since that inglorious exit from the WICB

and has joined forces with some other disgruntled former GCB Executives to wage war against the GCB with some manufactured allegations.

His fellow IMC members are yet to respond to their questionable activities within the Demerara Cricket Board when almost $800,000 , (75% of the total funds of the DCB) was withdrawn from the Board’s accounts warranting the Auditor, another IMC member, to issue a qualifying management letter against that year’s accounts. Mr. Raphael has never uttered a word against his colleague about this blatant financial irregularity. . This disgruntled group was the first set of persons that alleged financial impropriety within the GCB which was then adopted by the Government. Resulting from these allegations, Minister Nadir had ordered the Friendly Societies Registrar to investigate the GCB. This investigation was duly conducted in the first quarter of 2011 by an

independent investigator, Mr. Rupert Foster.

This Rupert Foster report has never been released by the Government since it did not support the reckless allegations that were being made against the Officers of the GCB. This report has been circulated by the GCB to the WICB and further afield. SO much for the financial irregularities!!

It seems to have escaped Mr. Raphael’s memory that the WICB again journeyed to Guyana in 2012 and engaged the Government in the presence of CARICOM and a solution was brokered with all the parties. The WICB and CARICOM were willing to sign off on this brokered solution but the Government represented by its Ministers’ Anthony & Nandlall asked for time to consult with its superiors. This consultation has not yet been completed after the expiration of several months.

Yours faithfully Johnny Azeez

members of the constitutional commission including Prof.

Yash Ghai with whom I had breakfast at his invitation at his home in Suva, the capital.

We exchanged views on constitutional matters for countries like Guyana and Fiji and also discussed Guyana’s politics; Prof Ghai was a guest of civil society of Guyana a few years back giving a talk imploring the political forces to find a solution to the ethnic conflict bedeviling Guyana and negatively impacting on its development.

The Fiji Constitutional Commission traveled all over the islands obtaining views of people on the kind of constitution they should have. Prof. Ghai assured to produce a constitution that would reflect the view of the population that would strengthen democracy and reduce ethnicity in politics – which was one of the goals stated by Commodore Bainimarama when he appointed the commission.

I traveled all over the main island and a few smaller islands querying the views of the population on the work of the commission on Commodore Bainimarama’s approval rating. The people I interacted with overwhelmingly supported Commodore Bainimarama as ruler of Fiji and also approved of the work of the

commission. They were confident the Commission would produce a constitution reflective of the views of the population and that would strengthen democracy.

Also, the people pinned their hopes and faith on Prime Minister Bainimarama restoring democratic (free and fair elections) rule. They had no doubts in their mind that after the constitution is put in place and elections held, Bainmarama would win a huge majority giving him legitimacy to continue his good work to crack down on corruption and ethnic politicking.

I visited Fiji several times and spoke at the university and conducted informal opinion polls. Of all the Fijian leaders I know, Bainmarama received the highest approval rating. Before I left Fiji in late August, I spoke with several opposition politicians and academics and told them that Bainimaram will be the next democratically elected leader of Fiji.

They agreed that he has

done some positive things for Fiji like ending the physical attacks on Indians, cracking down on the crime spree, reducing corruption, prosecuting crooked politicians of both main ethnic groups and giving the stability that has allowed for investment and tourist confidence.

An increasing number of people are moving away from ethnic voting and backing Bainimarama. In fact, more Indians back him than his own ethnic party because of the reduction in discrimination against Indians.

I don’t know why the new draft constitution was rejected.

Commodore Bainmarama has nothing to worry about winning an election unless the constitution allows for continued ethnic dominance of one group as previous constitutions when the British non-ethnic constitution was toppled.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Fiji’s military leader would win fair elections

DEAR EDITOR,

This has relevance to Sir Ronald Sanders’s commentary (KN Feb 3) on “who is standing up for the people of Fiji” in which he called for sanctions of the military regime and its expulsion from the Commonwealth of Nations. I am not sure that is the way to go. But I am surprised that the Fijian ruler, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, has rejected the constitution prepared by the independent Constitutional Commission because it was a respected body comprising of eminent individuals.

The work of the Commission was funded by the Commonwealth and the European Union.

I was in Fiji last August speaking at the universities (FNU and USP) on Caribbean politics and educational issues and did some comparisons and contrasts with Guyanese society. Fiji’s constitution and model of governance was also raised in my lectures and my views were requested on the work of the Fiji constitutional commission and what kind of constitution it should have – democracy and equity of representation for the ethnic groups in governance and allocation of resources was my position.

I also met with several

Prosecute the seller DEAR EDITOR, In the follow up to the fatal accident involving a 17-year-old drunk driver on Sunday night, it would be interesting to know whether the law enforcement would also seek out those who would

have given/sold the alcohol to the 17-year-old.

The Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Act seems to imply that the legal age at which alcohol could be sold is 18 years.

Yours sincerely Vidyaratha Kissoon

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Letters... Where your views make the news

LBI estate workers are shortchanged

DEAR EDITOR, Please grant us space in your publication to highlight the following as regards the sugar workers of the now closed L.B.I. Sugar Factory.

We the sugar workers of the Berbice sugar estates wish to register our dismay and disgust over how our colleagues at the closed L.B.I. sugar factory were and are still being treated.

We had the fortune to meet a few of these sugar workers at the P.P.P rally at Kitty but after hearing their story we will definitely put on hold /review any support for the Donald Ramotar Presidency, he being the key architect as a director on the GUYSUCO board for their predicament and plight.

We were following, closely, the saga of the Diamond workers until the settlement through the intervention of President Jagdeo.

All of these workers finally received their severance pay which they truly earn and deserve.

However, after workers at L.B.I. were given about one

month’s notice they were relegated and shunted like cattle to Enmore where you now have a bloated staff which that entity cannot now sustain because of poor production levels. It currently warrants an injection of millions of dollars from the state to keep Enmore afloat to sustain Enmore/LBI location.

However before L.B.I. closure most of the workers there should have been retrained in whatever fields of endeavour they choose at the states expense and respect for the desire of those who wish to have their severance pay.

A needs assessment ought to have been carried out but this ended up being a wild scenario.

We sincerely urge the Donald Ramotar camp to urgently review this by assiduously ensuring the engagement of these L.B.I. workers to bring a rectification to this process as it hangs as a dark cloud over all our heads.lt is definitely not too late as we in Berbice monitor this situation closely.

This will issue will definitely cause a lot of swing

votes against the ruling party and this is not good news for us here in Berbice.

This will result in misplaced trust in the leadership of the Party and hence Government and can cause them the elections.

We believe there are a lot of workers at Enmore who need their severance pay. We in Berbice were also reliably informed that a few L.B.I. factory workers had applied months ago for their just severance pay similar to the Diamond workers and similarly the process has been ‘state- .

Jacked’ or stymied due to heavy bureaucratic red tape.

We have to be fearless and bold when making decisions.

We urge all sugar and non sugar workers of Berbice and Demerara to take note and to give these workers their solidarity and let them receive what is due to them. We must stop state adventurism against poor workers.

Signed;D.APPANAHf R .Dindyal H.Moriah C.Persaud ,

This demands an explanation DEAR EDITOR Sir, the above caption in your Sunday February 3, 2013 page 12 is most interesting.

However, I think you should verify if this Mr. Khan is indeed President of the Guyana Bar Association because I have never heard of him or his advocacy in any important legal matter.

I know of many legal luminaries who were Past Presidents of the Bar and

they were household names and maintained the dignity of the Bar and the profession.

If your article is accurate and I am not questioning your professional integrity as an experienced and respected Editor, then this Mr. Khan should be relieved of this prestigious office lest the image of our respected Bar Association be tarnished.

Based on what happened in court as reported in your

article the Chancellor should order an investigation as why this matter was hastily dismissed (if it was indeed).

Mr. Editor I think Kaieteur News should investigate this matter because it seems that sometimes only through your columns justice is properly scrutinized and dispensed.

Justice must also be given to the poor.

Inshan Bacchus

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Kaieteur News

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Flawed systems at Region Four RDC…

$4M doled out for non-working security guards

By Leonard Gildarie Region Four officials were on Monday grilled intensely about their system of delivery of furniture and payments to one security firm as the Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) continued its examination of the 2010 Report of the Auditor General Report.

Appearing before the Committee at Parliament Building were Deolall Rooplall, the Regional Executive Officer (REO), and other senior officials of Region Four.

In his report, the Auditor General flagged payments to R.K. Security which were made before the end of the month for work done for that month.

There were no indications that the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Four had a system in place to verify how many guards worked and whether they would have been on the job for the hours required. Yet full payments were made to the company.

The REO said the region in 2010 made efforts to get back an overpayment of $4M by deducting it from payments in the next few months. However, R.K. Security, wanting the entire amount according to its contract, took the matter to court and reportedly got judgment in its favour.

According to the Region Four officials, the Ministry of Local Government then

- Ministry’s authority to release payments questioned

Region Four REO, Deolall Rooplall (centre), and other officials being grilled by MPs on Monday. issued instructions for the security firm, which had a contract to provide services to schools and other facilities run by the region, for full payments to be made.

Nirmal Rekha, Finance Secretary of the Treasury, was critical of the claims that the Local Government Ministry would have given the instructions to pay, especially as he could not find any regulations to allow such.

Auditor General Deodat Sharma, and Volda Lawrence, an opposition Member of Parliament for A Partnership For National Unity, said they were of the opinion that the money to R.K. Security was an overpayment.

Responding to questions

from government MP, Gail Teixeira, whether the instruction from the Local Government Ministry was a policy directive, the REO noted that it was one that had specifically to do with the issue of that particular security firm, which at the moment is not doing work for the region.

Rooplall disclosed that the region has since introduced measures to ensure security firms engaged are not paid before the second week of the following month. One of these measures is the establishment of a special checking unit which would verify how many guards turn up for work and for what

Refunds for EZjet passengers still being processed The Ministry of Public Works yesterday said that fund claims of affected EZjet passengers are currently being processed and that it will notify the public through the media, when payments are ready. According to a Government release, it will only be refunding passengers who purchased their tickets in Guyana. The US$200,000 bond deposit which was lodged by the airline to enter the Guyana market will be used for the refunds.

EZjet’s licences were suspended in the US, Canada, Trinidad and Guyana two months ago after it encountered financial difficulties following news that its founder, Sonny Ramdeo, was sued by a US hospital chain for allegedly stealing over US$20M in federal taxes while he was employed as a payroll manager.

Ramdeo, according to prosecutors in Florida, fled

from that state to New York when he got wind that agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was looking for him.

He was captured late last year and appeared before a New York judge before being transferred to Florida where he is to face trial next month for wire fraud charges.

EZjet was a low-cost carrier that came to Guyana in late 2011, commanding 15% of the market before it folded months later. While the ticket

prices were more than welcome by the Guyanese public, there were questions from the inception about the source of EZjet’s financing, which Ramdeo claimed came from his personal money.

Scores of passengers were left stranded in December after the suspension with New York, Trinidad and Guyanese passengers still to be paid.

Passengers in Canada have been refunded, a statement recently said.

hours. It is this report that is being used to issue payments.

Meanwhile, the 2010 Auditor General report also found that furniture to the tune of hundreds of thousands of dollars were ordered yet no records were found that it was delivered.

According to Sharma, there were payment

documents that indicated monies were released.

The MPs in PAC were puzzled how the furniture was delivered to the school without the necessary quality checks being made.

According to the REO, the region has established systems to have the furniture delivered directly to the Region Stores before being taken to the school. He said that the furniture is greenlighted to be collected by the Regional Education Officer.

Questioned about how the region would be able to verify what furniture belongs to a particular school, Rooplall disclosed that each would have its own individual markings with each educational facility expected to maintain an assets’ register.

The PAC has Parliamentary authority to examine the reports of the Auditor General and question officials on aspects of it.

Recommendations are then made for the improvements of the accounting systems or for possible action if there are breaches. With increasing focus on corruption and calls for tighter accounting controls, the PAC meetings

have been highlighting several crucial system lapses, especially at the regional level.

Overpayments for work not done, missing records and collusion have been cropping up with alarming frequency. On Monday, there were instances of engineers signing off on incomplete work, allowing contractors to collect full payment.

PAC ordered a full-blown investigation into revelations that the RDC did nothing to investigate the illegal sale by the Guyana Oil Company (GuyOil) of over $700,000 in fuel and lubricants which occurred in December 2011.

The fuel was delivered to three vehicles, one of them linked to a former senior official who has since been transferred to another region.

Two of the other vehicles had number plates not registered at the Guyana Revenue Authority.

PAC ordered that the police be called in and that the RDC, GuyOil and the Ministry of Local Government conduct separate investigations.

The REO is expected to present a progress report to the PAC in a few weeks.

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Wednesday February 06, 2013

Wednesday February 06, 2013

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“Illegal” Lamaha Gardens land sale…

Residents contemplate taking matters in their own hands Residents of Lamaha Gardens are contemplating a seven-day ultimatum for the government to investigate the “illegal” sale of a plot of land in their community, and are contemplating taking matters into their own hands.

Although the community’s interim committee has sought legal consultation and representation, residents have expressed little faith in the timely deliverance of justice and are thus skeptical about any immediate and meaningful outcome of legal action.

At a community meeting held yesterday, chaired by the location’s interim committee head, Ronald Ali, angry residents lashed out at what they said was the “theft and illegal sale” of community land. They were up in arms about the transaction, with some opting to immediately tear down the “illegal fences” placed around the almost 33,000 sq ft property at 142 Durabana Square.

According to the residents, the plot of land had for years been the property of the community. They are saying that apart from the land being sold illegally, it was sold way below market price to a businessman with high connections. They have further cited the sale as a corrupt and illegal act, since the lot was designated for the construction of a playground and recreation location for all residents.

According to the information that emanated from the meeting, the land was reportedly sold to an individual who is said to have

Some of the residents at the meeting yesterday other properties in the area. It was also said that the proceeds from that sale was placed in a bank account controlled by a liquidator.

Lamaha Gardens during the 1960s was being developed into a high scale residential area for senior public servants and Government officials, most of whom were members of the then Civil Service Association (CSA), now the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU).

The controversial land was said to at the time be under the control of the Civil Service Association (CSA) Housing Society. According to community records, the last audited report in 1989 showed that the CSA had donated the land to City Hall to be used by the community and was thus recognized to be the property of Lamaha Gardens.

From the sixties to now, residents said they have paid

for drainage, public space and all the expenses that came with the property.

The residents said that they were totally oblivious of the land being advertised for sale. They highlighted that in November of last year they had held a community gettogether and get-to-knowyour-neighbour function to celebrate their hard work in community development and togetherness.

It was however around that same time, Ali related, November 3, that the CSA Corporative Housing Society Limited had been dissolved by the Chief Cooperatives Officer, “because he claimed that it was proven to his satisfaction that less than seven members of that society existed.”

Ali said that, “We were also totally unaware that on December 6, 2012, a liquidator had been appointed and

Dem boys seh...

De Rat put property in Donald mother name De Rat use to play Santa Claus. Santa does give gifts to everybody and he does keep de best fuh de good ones. De Rat different. He does give to heself and he friends and he does keep de best fuh he best friend, Bar Bee. Santa does give a lot of things to good people and nutten to bad people. However, De Rat does do de opposite. He does give nutten to good people and everything to bad people.

He does give de most to de worse ones.

Dem boys find out only yesterday that he give Bar Bee three radio station, not one, when he give everybody else one. He give Bar Bee de Santa complex, nuff duty free concession wid de same complex. He give Bar Bee de contract all de years fuh supply drugs. People pocket billions over de years in that deal alone. Then he give Bar Bee all de contract fuh every printing job fuh de state of Guyana.

Dem boys now finding out how much property dem swap. Dem swap state property fuh private property right across Guyana. Brazzy tell one of he friends and de same friends tell dem boys.

Tek that prime Camp Street property whey Belvedere use to exist. That get swap for 103acre state land. Dem swap a empty lot pun Main Street fuh nuff state land and put that same property in Donald mother name. Dem buy it in de name of Olive Branch to fool people and hide de transaction. Donald mother name Olive.

Dem boys fuh a moment think was Donald own. But de poor man didn’t know nutten.

Now he wondering who else name dem use. He seh that if dem buy in he name he gun tek de property.

Dem tek de state land at Sparendaam wheh dem had de radio transmitter. Dem boys find out that dem tek de transmitter and all. That is wha dem using fuh one of dem radio station.

Talk half and if you know wha else dem tek, whisper in dem boys ears.

passing of transport was advertised in the official gazette December 22, 2012 and transport passed on January 7, 2013,”during the Christmas holidays.

The residents are however challenging that at least 15 members of the said CSA society or original title holders are still alive, but were never informed of the land being for sale or that it was

even sold. “Right now even in this room and within the community no less than 15 original title holders are still alive, and therefore, members of that society, but yet not one of those persons were communicated with by the Chief Coops Officer,” Ali charged.

The residents are feeling betrayed and shortchanged, especially those who said that

they had diligently contributed to the community’s current stage of development. One male resident said that for 28 years he had maintained the large plot of land. He said it cost lots of money to maintain it and if there was any sale he believed he should have had preference “or any other Lamaha Gardens resident for that matter”.

The community members argued that now there is nowhere for the neighbourhood’s children to play and no location for recreation. They are exploring various avenues since they believe that the government cannot be relied on. President Ramotar had ordered Labour Minister Nanda Gopaul to launch an investigation into the sale of the land. They are hoping that by the end of the week some definitive action would be taken towards restoring the property.

It was highlighted that 5500 sq ft of land in the area is sold at approximately $30M$35M but the now controversial property, estimated at six times that size, was reportedly sold at $25M to the businessman.

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 06, 2013

=== THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN ===

The 1823 monument: The tragedy of power I could just visualize the boyish smile on his face that masks his cynicism as Burnham debated where a monument to the East Indians of Guyana should go.

Burnham, with cigarette in hand, and his tiny grin, would say, “If they want it there, then put it there.” Such was the nature of the man.

I would go so far as to say that I doubt for a moment Burnham would have opposed the wishes of Indian organizations. He was a master strategist and would not have seen any virtue in defying Indians on a matter that had no strategic importance for his government.

If any issue since he became President shows how politically naïve, limited and

judgementally flawed President Ramotar is, it is his Government’s defiance of African organizations for the 1823 monument to be erected at Parade Ground.

His rejection of the site is fraught with political and ethnic repercussions. What makes the entire situation bizarre and utterly foolish is that it is a policy decision that has no advantage to the Government whatsoever.

Why is President Ramotar’s Government preoccupied with a subject that a majority of Guyanese have shown no particular feelings over?

I don’t believe any Indian organization, any major Guyanese stakeholder, any important organization in Guyana cares about the location of the monument,

one way or the other. Only the Government stands to lose by the moving of the site. One is forced to ask the leaders of the PPP what has the government to gain strategically and politically by putting the monument on the old seawall parapet (which the Ministry of Culture says is on Carifesta Avenue).

Let us look at the reaction.

Both independent dailies, the Stabroek News and Kaieteur News, have not come out in support of the seawall site.

The AFC and APNU have supported the wishes of the African groups that want Parade Ground. The Private Sector Commission has not spoken on the subject.

No Hindu, Muslim or Christian churches have pronounced on the issue. No

Indian group has thrown in their support with the Ministry of Culture. One suspects that most Guyanese feel that it is a situation best left to those affected – African-Guyanese organizations.

I am sure if a poll was taken tomorrow, a substantial majority of Indians in the countryside would say it doesn’t concern them.

Why the government wants to put the structure on the old seawall road instead of Parade Ground defies logic. In what way, would the new site be an advantage to the Government? On the contrary it will deepen ethnic suspicion and it will be a theme for the opposition in upcoming local government elections.

In plain, simple language, the matter is not worth the hot water the Government will get into. I can think of no other analogy than Georgetowners telling the Government where in Lethem to put a monument to honour our Amerindian people.

So why is President Ramotar still unmoved? First, I think Ramotar leaves policymaking up to his people. He doesn’t feel intellectually comfortable with sensitive political issues and I feel this will be the pattern of his rule.

For Ramotar, Anthony is the best person to make the decision. Secondly, once political voices are heard and they come from critical angles, the PPP feels it has to fight, has to defy, has to bully its way and have its way. This second factor is at the heart of the matter.

A majority of Guyanese do not realize as yet the tragic implications of this monument controversy. It graphically shows the nature of Guyana’s enduring nihilism. The PPP will not concede even on minor points. If the PPP cannot compromise on a situation that really doesn’t concern its constituencies, has no major implications for the economy, is not a matter that has national repercussions, then why would it make major

Frederick Kissoon changes that are asked for by the opposition?

The budget is around the corner and if you want to know what is inside of it then just look at the Government’s attitude to the location of the 1823 monument.

The brutal reality is that if the PPP cannot see the total uselessness to its power base in opposing the Parade Ground site for the 1823 structure, why would the same set of people give in to the opposition and reduce VAT or open up NCN or set up the Human Rights Commission or give GECOM its independent budget etc.

One way or the other, the people of Guyana have to change their country’s outdated governance system.

GAPSO cites favouritism in tender process - demands Govt. security contracts be re-advertised publicly The Guyana Association of Private Security Organizations (GAPSO) is livid over what it terms the secretive treatment of security contracts that resulted in only three “favoured” security firms being able to tender.

The security umbrella body is referring to the opening of tenders for the provision of security services throughout Regions Two, Three, Four, Five and Six and also Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine.

The body is pointing fingers at the procurement entity, the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development.

According to GAPSO, in both instances, three security services tendered -Strategic Action Security, Homesafe Security and RK’s Guyana Security Services.

The matter was

highlighted at GAPSO’s monthly meeting held last Thursday and none of the companies that attended had knowledge of any publication in any newspaper or Government website requesting tenders for the projects.

“It would appear that this was an inside arrangement, and that these three companies were secretly notified. It is strange to think that with over twenty contracts security companies in Guyana, only three would be interested in such large projects.”

GAPSO noted that “The same secret arrangement for the provision of security services was made last year.”

It also pointed out that Strategic Action Security and Homesafe Security are not members of GAPSO and disclosed that one of them, notwithstanding its receipt of

this major government award for 2012, is still to pay its watchmen the $140 per hour minimum wage which the government had mandated effective from August 2012.

The body said that its members are legally registered security services who all pay their taxes as required by law.

“It is very unfair and unjust to us to be deliberately shut out of a process that involves taxpayers’ money,” GAPSO stressed. It expressed concern over attempts this year to separate the Coastal Regions from the interior regions. This GAPSO said is probably due to the inability of one company to serve the entire country as was the case with Strategic Action Security last year. The body believes that it would be better if each Region’s requirements could be tendered for individually, rather than as a bloc. With this method, it explained, a smaller but more professional company would stand a better chance of being awarded a contract.

“It is only fair that the process for the tender for security services be readvertised publicly, thus ensuring and that all interested companies have an opportunity to tender.

Favouritism must not be allowed to continue,” GAPSO declared.

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Kaieteur News

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Crime, violence among adolescents is number one concern in C’bean states

By Zena Henry According to the 2010 CARICOM Commission on Youth Development report, “deaths and injuries arising from youth violence represent an important social, economic and public health dilemma in many countries including Guyana.”

It was highlighted that in relation to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), grave concern was expressed with regard to youths involved in increased crime and violence.

Manager for the Governance Programme at the UNDP’s Guyana office, Trevor Benn, yesterday asserted that, “In virtually all Caribbean states, crime and violence is the number one concern, among adolescents and youths.”

Benn, at the time, was delivering an address at the

opening ceremony of a fourday training workshop on the “Implementation of Prevention Strategies and Actions to address Youth Gangs and Violence” convened by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat.

The programme is a joint initiative between the UNDP and CARICOM to focus on citizens’ safety and security.

Several dignitaries, local and foreign, Government and Opposition representatives, along with training participants were in attendance at the forum held at the Grand Coastal Inn, Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara.

Benn told the gathering that according to the Home Affairs Ministry, “The involvement of youths in violence and crime, has promoted the Ministry to make the issue one of its

– UNDP official operational priorities in its 2011-2015 strategic plan”.

Benn emphasised: “Youth violence and crime have tremendous developmental cost. For small Caribbean countries, the phenomena’s impact and implications have grave costs to human and social welfare as well as economic growth.”

He insisted that tackling crime and violence is increasingly accounting for a greater percentage of national budgets. The issue, he said, places pressure on the health care system, attaching a cost to the state for loss of productive human resources and a cost when the business community loses faith in the state in providing adequate security.

Benn opined that by the conclusion of the workshop,

Motorcyclist found dead on Mahaicony Public Road The motorcycle which Nurse was riding

The body of 50-year-old Gordon Nurse of Plantation Profit, West Coast Berbice, was found early yesterday morning on the Letter T Public Road, Mahaicony.

The discovery was made at around 08:45 hours yesterday by persons frequenting the area. Persons said they were alerted of the man’s body after noticing his mangled motorcycle at the side of the road. Police were called in and the body was subsequently removed by undertakers from the Lyken Funeral Home.

Nurse’s reputed wife, Camille Long said she last saw him alive on Monday morning and when he didn’t return home that evening she wasn’t overly concerned since she was of the belief that he had spent the night by relatives.

However early yesterday morning the woman said she was greeted with the news of his demise.

“Yesterday (Monday) was my birthday and I get up early

and I make roti and I left to go to the market to get stuff to cook, but when I reach back home I notice he left and he didn’t gone with he phone, but I didn’t take it for anything,” Long told Kaieteur News.

According to Long, when she arrived on the scene she was told that her reputed husband’s body was found way down in a clump of bushes off the road while his motorcycle was closer to the edge of the parapet.

Relatives and other persons who converged on the scene said it is believed that Nurse’s motorcycle crashed into a pole holding up a signboard and the man severely injured himself.

“People say when they go to move the body you could see how he scramble onto grass like he went fighting up before he dead.”

Further, there are reports that Nurse was seen in Airy Hall consuming alcohol with friends later Monday afternoon. One source said

Dead: Gordon Nurse that one of Nurse’s friends took away the key for his motorcycle but he verbally abused his friends and his key was returned to him.

It is believed that Nurse left Airy Hall and was heading home when he crashed while negotiating a turn.

Many also speculated that there was no other vehicle involved in the incident, since there was no sign of broken parts from another vehicle.

Investigations are ongoing.

violent actions of youth gangs contributing to the growing level of insecurity among citizens; conflict among gangs that result in violent clashes, and an implementation of peaceful resolutions among and between rival gangs, should be addressed.

United States Ambassador Brent Hardt said that his country shares CARICOM’s belief that it is vital to ensure a secure future for its young people, “to overcome that lack of opportunity”. He related that when the USA initially started working with the Caribbean on the issue, regional leaders had highlighted their concerns over the youths and were uncertain about the way forward.

“It is in dealing with the social issues of pressures, temptations, and criminal environment, that makes the CARICOM project so critical,” Ambassador Hardt stressed.

Head of the European Union Delegation to Guyana, Ambassador Robert

Kopecký, shared that the European Union is the largest donor to the Caribbean and was particularly concerned with the issue plaguing the nations. He referenced that from the 2012 UNDP report on Caribbean human rights, development and citizen security, it was found that organised transitional crime plays a pivotal role in security crises affecting countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. Officer in Charge of CARICOM’s Human and Social Development directorate, Myrna Bernard, said that “In 2005, the Caribbean Commission on Health and Development flagged violence and injuries as one of the three issues with significant implications for development if not specifically addressed. Since then the prevalence of violence and injuries in CARICOM Member States has escalated such that it has become not only a public health problem, it has also become a priority regional security and development issue.”

Chief Education Officer Olato Sam in his address said

that the Education Ministry has started to track critical incidents in schools to provide an imperial framework on which sound policy initiatives and ventures could be devised.

He highlighted various negatives that accompany gang violence and crime, before mentioning that the Education Ministry had noted the need to implement or view more in-depth, the incidence of youth gangrelated crimes and violence.

He welcomed the workshop, which he said would go a long way in assisting the school system to deal with the social issue while underlining the significant benefits that stem from the programme.

The four-day workshop is expected to be attended by students and other stakeholders, and will see participants sharing ideas and experiences in relation to the critical issue. Discussions on studies and findings will also be at the centre of the forum while on the final day, there will be presentations on prevention strategies and actions that would have been devised.

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Kaieteur News

Tourism Ministry touts street fete ‘Masharama,’ The Tourism Ministry is taking the Mashramani Celebrations up a notch by hosting a Pre Mash Street Jam -”Masharama” on Friday, February 22nd, 2013.

Alluding to the significance of hosting the street jam, Minister in charge of the sector, Irfaan Ali, explained that the event was conceptualized as part of the plan to attract more persons for the upcoming Mashramani celebrations and to magnify the significance of the occasion. With the overall aim of making this year’s event an even more exciting and memorable one, the Ministry is currently finalizing arrangements to host a Brazilian Samba Band,

slated to rouse revelers with live stage performances on the eve of Mashramani.

This massive ‘street fete’ will be staged in the vicinity of the Housing Ministry, on Brickdam, and will also include performances from Soca Monarch Finalists, as they prepare the masses to usher in the 43rd Republic Anniversary the following day. Spectators will also get a sneak peek of popular Band Costumes. On the big day, the Ministry will then lead a parade of 100 strong to compete in the medium category float competition, this will be followed by the Brazilian Samba Group with an anticipated 1000 party followers accompanying

doubts that he had escaped.

Meanwhile, the victims, who are still nursing wounds, are peeved that most of their attackers are on the loose.

They believe that ranks are taking the incident lightly, and they are suspicious that the gang members may have connections with the police.

According to one of the victims, on Saturday night following the brutal fight and chase that started at Greenfield and ended at Ann’s Grove seawall, the police were contacted. One teenager who had stitches above his nose bridge said that he and one of the eight attackers had attended primary school together. But, that did not spare him from getting a sound thrashing.

“I seh is me Asif… me and you went primary school together, but he ignore me and tek a fat piece steel rod and beat me pon me two foot…They beat me up on my face and broadside my back…when dem finish my friends had to drag me from a swamp by the seawall and carry me to the Mahaicony Hospital.”

“I was unable to defend

January criminal assizes underway in Berbice

them to the National Park.

According to Minister Ali, the Ministry’s plans for this year’s Mashramani Celebrations are centered around meeting the needs of all visitors, particularly those from neighbouring countries and exposing v i s i t o r s t o G u y a n a ’s diverse culture.

“This will be utilized as the vehicle through which we can attract an average of 400 tourists. We are working with the state of Roraima in Brazil and tourism agencies within the State to promote and sell packages,” Ali explained.

Mashramani 2013 will be celebrated under the theme ‘Reflecting Creativity, Embracing Diversity’.

Prisoner pays cop $1,000 for freedom

A prisoner of the Cove and John Police Station who was suspected to have escaped from the lockups has alleged that he paid a rank $1,000 on Sunday evening last for his freedom. But, his liberty was short-lived as his father turned him over to the cops the next day.

On Sunday evening, the prisoner who was in custody at the station was positively identified as a member of a gang who viciously attacked eight young men the previous night in front of a nightspot in Greenfield, East Coast Demerara.

The following morning ranks who turned up to take over station duties were of the impression that the prisoner had escaped when it was discovered that he was missing from the lockups.

However, attempts to contact the rank who was on duty the night before were futile and he has since not reported for duty.

The prisoner, who turned up at the station with his father on Monday evening, told cops that he had paid the rank $1,000 to leave the station and dismissed any

Wednesday February 06, 2013

myself…dem other boys too...we couldn’t do anything to help ourselves because dem man had cutlass, ice pick and a thick piece steel rod…we only had we hand fuh block and foot fuh run,” the teenager said.

He is hoping that the police would be quick in arresting his assailants since the men are known trouble makers. He said that he and his friends did nothing to deserve the cruel attack. In fact, the origin of the attack is a mystery to the victims since they claimed they did not trouble the men.

However, another victim said he may have an idea as to what triggered the chaos.

He related that after playing a game of pools in Bee Hive, his friends decided to go to a nightspot at neighbouring village, Greenfield. As he was crossing the bridge that links the two villages, the wheel of the bicycle wobbled and he fell beside a man who was standing near the bridge.

“He ask me if I wan fight and I seh no I ain’t want fight, and he still want rush up and start cussing up… Anyway my friends come and we make peace before we leave,” he said. The young men thought that was the end of the incident and continued their journey to the Greenfield nightspot. Whilst standing outside the nightspot the young men were attacked by eight men who arrived in two cars.

In an effort to escape the blows, the young men fled in the direction of the Ann’s Grove seawall. There they scattered in groups to get away from the men who were trailing in vehicles. At the seawall the young men received a sound thrashing and their assailants eventually left them.

Justice Brassington Reynolds inspecting the Guard of Honour The ceremonial opening of the January 2013 session of the criminal assizes of the Berbice High Court was held yesterday in front of the Berbice High Court building on Esplanade Road, New Amsterdam. Led by a 30strong contingent from the Felix Austin ‘B’ Division Police Training School at Adventure, Corentyne, the trainees were impressive in their display.

The salute and inspection were taken by Justice Brassington Reynolds who is presiding over the January criminal sessions of the Court.

He was accompanied by J u s t i c e S a n d r a Kurtzious who is presiding

over the civil court. The judges were escorted by ‘B’ division commander Assistant Commissioner Brian Joseph, officiating in his first official ceremony since being posted to Berbice as commander, and Cadet Officer Jermaine Dufu.

The parade was commanded by Assistant Superintendent of Police Guy Nurse who was assisted by Inspector Dennis Stephen and Sergeant Mark Wilson.

Also accompanying the parade were Deputy Superintendent Calvin B r u t u s , Deputy Superintendent W. Parsram, Cadet Officer O. Halley, Inspector B. Williams and Sergeant Michael

Newland.

In court ,Justice Reynolds took the opportunity to address the jurors present and outline to them some of their roles, purpose and reasons for serving as jurors.

The judge also summarized to them some of the implications and consequences of not turning up for jury service, as well as the importance of punctuality and proper attire.

The matter of Ramesh Sahadeo called ‘Bado’ who is indicted for the murder of Dharshanan Ramanan called ‘Tato’ was called.

This is the second time that the accused will be facing a judge and jury. His last trial ended with a hung jury.

(Samuel Whyte)

Police are said to be seeking an individual believed to be one of the gunmen who killed gold miner Jason Wills in a Meadowbrook Gardens house last Thursday.

Police officials confirmed that they are looking for “a person of interest” but declined to divulge any details about the suspect’s identity or what has caused them to focus on this individual.

Commissioner of Police Leroy Brumell had told Kaieteur News that investigators were “working on some leads” and were hoping to effect arrests.

All reports indicate that two gunmen, armed with a pistol and an assault rifle, executed the 33-year-old Wills after scaling the fence surrounding the premises and entering through the front door, which the occupants had left open.

The victim reportedly sustained about seven gunshot injuries. A post mortem is likely to be performed today.

Sources have suggested that the killers had Wills under surveillance for some time.

The Mahdia gold miner had often stayed at the premises, which is occupied by a close friend and the friend’s motherin-law.

Kaieteur News understands that the Pine Grove Street, Meadowbrook residence has a security alarm related to one service, but it is unclear whether the alarm is functioning. There is also another sign from a second security firm on the premises.

The two occupants have told police that they were all watching television last Thursday night but that they (the friend and his mother-inlaw) went into the kitchen some 30 seconds before the

gunmen barged in.

Kaieteur News understands that the woman who was in the house said she heard Wills shout “Oh God, don’t do duh, don’t do duh…” before gunfire erupted in the living room.

Both reportedly denied seeing the gunmen enter or leave.

Police had detained the woman and her son-in-law briefly while attempting to ascertain whether they were in collusion with the killers.

Investigators had seemed to be particularly concerned that the residents had left the front door open and that they had both left Wills in the living room just before the killers struck.

But the occupants had reportedly told police that they had left the front door open because the air conditioning unit had malfunctioned.

Cops seek ‘person of interest’ in gold miner’s execution

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Kaieteur News

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Residents say E’bo sawmill Local reseller of iPads, iPhones needs dust control systems warns of tampering, warranty risks

The authorised reseller of Apple products in Guyana

The sawmill that Block ‘A’ Roden Rust residents are complaining about According to residents, although the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Guyana Forestry Commission have promised to investigate the circumstances under which a sawmill at Block ‘A’ Roden Rust, East Bank Essequibo, has been polluting the neighbourhood, the operation has continued unchecked.

According to one of the affected residents, the dust pollution combined with heavy duty vehicles moving

timber has caused great incovenience and severe encumbrance.

“As a result of all of this, the residents are suffering due to the indifference of the sawmill owner. This sawmill is erected neighbouring to me. I am concerned about the dust pollution and the heavy duty vehicles he is using. It is unreasonable to move timber so close to people’s homes that it causes great inconvenience.”

Other residents underscored that almost all

wood dust, especially if very fine, can cause allergic reactions in many people as well as skin irritation.

“This continues to be a nuisance in a residential neighbourhood, especially to me, since it’s just a few feet away from my yard. The noise and dust pollution and vibration of my foundation constitute a major concern for me and my future,” one man said. The residents stressed the need for the installation of dust control, suppression and collection systems.

Global Technology Group of Companies, the sole authorized reseller of Apple products in Guyana, is encouraging consumers to purchase Apple products from only authorized resellers, due to the high risk of counterfeiting and product tampering on the local and international market.

Mala Harichand, Head of Corporate Relations of Global Technology, in a statement from the company yesterday, said that consumers who purchase products at Apple resellers are offered significant benefits which include a one-year limited warranty coverage as well as

technical and product support.

Many local consumers have complained about phones and other electronic products being tampered with by dealers, Global Te c h n o l o g y indicated.

Harichand stated: “There are many counterfeit products available on the market, but consumers can eliminate the risk of purchasing opened or tampered products once they purchase at Apple’s authorized resellers and this is applicable internationally.”

The Corporate Relations head has assured customers

Global Technology’s Mala Harichand that they are guaranteed value for their money when they buy at Global Technology’s Apple Store.

Apple recently launch the fourth generation iPad Touch and iMac that are available to consumers at Global Technology’s head office at Camp and New Markets Streets, Georgetown, the statement said.

Global Technology became an Apple authorized reseller in 2012 offering an entire line of products and after-sale service to customers.

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Wednesday February 06, 2013

Wednesday February 06, 2013

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Page 15

Canada-based Guyanese testifies in wrongful arrest lawsuit Canada-based Guyanese Phillip Simon testified yesterday about being detained under horrendous conditions in the Brickdam Police Station lockups after being accused of participating in international terrorism and drug trafficking.

Simon was arrested in May 2011, while looking for lawyers to represent Nation of Islam’s Abdul Akbar Muhammad, who had been detained on similar drug trafficking and terrorism allegations. At the time, Muhammad was in Guyana to lecture in Buxton on the slave trade.

The two were subsequently released without charges and are now seeking substantial damages from the Attorney General and the Government of Guyana.

Simon is being represented by Attorney-atLaw Nigel Hughes.

Testifying in the High Court yesterday, Simon stated that he is employed in the field of electrical maintenance and resides at Morning Star, Montreal, Canada. He said that he arrived in Guyana on Monday, May 16, and had invited Mr. Akbar, who had lectured in Canada on the slave trade, to conduct a similar lecture in Guyana.

Simon stated that The Nation of Islam representative conducted a short lecture at a school in Buxton. He had two lectures scheduled for airing on Channel 9. Simon said that he arrived in Guyana on May 19, 2011. “On the 19th I was in my hotel located in Kitty and I went looking for lawyers for Minister Akbar Mohamed, who had been arrested.”

He said that after failing to find an attorney he spoke with a Government Minister on the phone. Following that, he went to CID Headquarters, where he was met by two police ranks.

“They then arrested me

for terrorism and put me on the bench. I saw the minister and spoke with him,” Simon told the court. I remained on the bench for several hours. I was there from 12 to about six to seven hours in the evening.”

Simon testified that he was asked by a policeman about an individual named ‘Perreira’ and about his connections to ‘Perreira’.

“I told him (the policeman) I don’t know him, I met him before and I was trying to contact him for Mr. Akbar because he (‘Perreira’) would lead him (Akbar) to the Muslim community.

“They never asked me questions about terrorist activities. They never asked me about any circumstance in which I was involved in acts of terrorism. They never asked me about any drug trafficking.

They never asked me about any circumstances in which I was alleged to be involved in drug trafficking. They never confronted me with any person who accused me of being involved in terrorism or trafficking in Narcotics. They never presented me with any document that implicated me in terrorism or any trafficking.

They never questioned me about any activities that surrounded terrorism or trafficking.”

According to Simon, the police ranks said that they were waiting for a call “before they release us. If the call did not come by seven they would take us to Brickdam.”

“They came and told us that the call did not come through so they took us to Brickdam lockups. They placed us in the cell. The cell was filthy; not equipped for human beings to be in. The smell was like if you were in a toilet. There were flies and mosquitoes.

It was obnoxious. There was no place to lie. You had to lie on the concrete or stand. They were about 40-50 persons in the cell. I was never placed in

a cell before. I remained there until 9:30 in the morning. In the morning a brother brought water and sandwiches.”

He said that they (himself, Akbar and another man, Tyrone Seymour) were eventually informed that they would he would be taken to CID Headquarters.

Simon stated that Tyrone Seymour is a barber and that he had often visited the man’s barber shop. He said that he had asked Seymour for Perreira’s number and had made several calls to ‘Perreira’ after getting the number.

According to Simon, Seymour came to CID Headquarters on the afternoon of May 19, 2011, to bring him a book and was subsequently arrested.

Simon testified that he also spoke to Crime Chief Seelall Persaud. He said that Persaud questioned him about the Nation of Islam.

“He also asked how I can afford to come to Guyana so often. I told him I work for myself seven days a week. He never informed me why I was in custody. They never told me whether Mr. Perreira was a terrorist or drug pusher or whether he was in custody for drug pushing or terrorism.

They continued questioning me for half an hour. They took my photograph and fingerprints the day before.

“After this they told me that I could go, but they could not give me a clearance. I was never a suspect, charged, arrested or stopped at an airport before the 19th for terrorism or drug trafficking.

Before the 19th, I visited the US at about five times per year to visit the Nation of Islam in Chicago. I was never stopped. After the 20th, when I was released, I first attempted to go to the US. I was detained by the immigration authority concerning the matter I had in Guyana concerning the

Accused in wedding house murder gets 10 years A unanimous vote of guilty by a 12-member mixed jury saw Chanderpaul Chateram receive a 10-year prison sentence yesterday for the murder of Gopaul Singh called ‘Porridge.’ Justice Navindra Singh summed up the case after lawyers and prosecutors presented their closing addresses before the jury deliberated.

Attorney at law Peter Hugh represented the accused while prosecutors Konyo Thompson and Dhanika Singh represented the state. The case against Chateram was that on September 14, 2007 at Good Hope ECD, at a wedding

house, he inflicted wounds on the deceased which eventually led to his demise.

The High Court matter saw several witnesses giving their testimonies including a pathologist who during a Voir Dire had indicated that the victim could have died as a result of injuries inflicted or from complications resulting from the injuries.

The prosecution said that on the day in question an altercation ensued between Singh and Chateram which resulted in a fight.

The court heard that Chateram lashed Singh on the head with a bottle and then

cuffed him in the face.

The deceased was hospitalized for over 40 days.

He later succumbed.

Chateram’s lawyer had said the prosecution failed to make a connection between the man’s death being the result of the injury he sustained during the fight.

The prosecution however relied on the pathologist and the main witness, Ronald Dhanraj, who testified to seeing the accused inflict the injury on the deceased. He also testified that on the day of the incident, he apprehended the accused and took him to the Vigilance Police Station.

drug trafficking and terrorism.

They told me they would let me in, but I needed to get the matter cleared up,” Simon testified. Simon told the court that he contacted Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr. Roger Luncheon. He said they had two conversations about the incident and “he asked what would it take for the matter to go away.”

“I was allowed in the US because I was attending a press conference concerning the matter,” Simon stated.

Simon told the court that he returned to Guyana in February, 2012 but was unable to make contact with Dr. Luncheon. He said that he never received an apology for his arrest or detention and never received any compensation or offer of compensation from the Guyana Police Force.

Noting that he was claiming damages for wrongful arrest, imprisonment and consequential loss, Simon stated that he felt “awful and degraded to be put in a condition like that.”

Under cross-examination, Simon stated that he had met ‘Perriera’ and went to his

home at Lamaha Springs. He said he could not recall speaking to ‘Perreira’ prior to the 19th.

“I spoke to the person and I told him that Mr. Akbar was coming in. I presumed him to be Gerald Perreira. I called the number more than once and spoke to the same person about three or four times. I was trying to contact Perriera so that he could take him to the Muslim community. I never mentioned any terrorist activities,” Simon stated.

Also testifying yesterday was Tyrone Seymour, a barber of Lot 4 Cove and John ECD. He said that at around 14:00 hrs on May 19, 2011, He visited CID Headquarters after Simon called him to deliver a book for him.

On arrival at CID Headquarters, a detective asked for his name and address. Seymour said that the detective then told him to sit on a bench and later told him that he was a suspect in terrorism.

“I was 28 years at the time.

I was never arrested of any criminal offence or accused of terrorism and neither arrested by the police.”

Seymour said he was

placed next to Mr. Simon and Mr. Muhammad.

“He (the police) asked me if Mr. Simon ever sent money to me from overseas and I said no. he asked how long I knew Mr. Simon and I told him I knew him for about three to four years. He never asked me about my involvement in terrorism. He never asked about Mr. Simon or Akbar involvement in terrorism.

“We were taken to Brickdam. We were then taken from Brickdam to Eve Leary…We were never told why we were arrested. We were released.”

Under cross-examination Seymour stated that he is a Muslim. He said that Simon had called him before May 19, 2011, but he could not recall how often.

He said that Simon had asked if he had gotten a number for Mr. Perreira. “I searched the directory and found a number for Perreira, and he asked why I wanted his number and I told him Brother Phillip wanted the number.”

The proceedings concluded at that point and the case was adjourned until February 12.

14-year-old killed in playfield brawl The fatal stabbing of another teenager is engaging the attention of the police, this time it’s in the South Rupununi.

Police said in a statement yesterday that its ranks are conducting investigations into the murder of 14-year-old

student, Camelos Arthur, of Achiwuib, South Rupununi, which occurred at about 13:30 hours yesterday.

Investigations so far have revealed that Arthur and a 15year-old male student, who were both armed with knives, had an altercation on a

playfield at Achiwuib, during which he was fatally stabbed to his chest.

He was pronounced dead at a Lethem hospital where he was taken after the incident.

The suspect is in police custody assisting with investigations.

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Vexing issues on agenda for Army Officers’ Conference The recent actions by rogue elements of the Guyana Defence Force in the Cuyuni mining district is likely to be one of the major topics for discussions during this year’s Officers’ Conference, which kicks off tomorrow at Base Camp Ayanganna.

The Conference, which will be opened by His Excellency President Donald Ramotar, will see officers discussing a range of topics, most of which will focus on the Commander in Chief’s presentation.

It’s anyone’s guess what will be President Ramotar’s charge to the army, but a reliable source at the Office of the President has informed that the Head-of-State is almost certain to deal with the issue involving the recent raid on mining camps by a gang of rogue soldiers.

The source however stated that the President has been briefed on the situation and was brought up to date with the progress of the investigation.

An official at Camp Ayanganna told this newspaper yesterday that army officials have commenced the summary of evidence process which precedes possible court martial for the ranks involved.

It is alleged that two Fridays ago a gang of rogue soldiers, raided a mining community at Devil’s Hole, Cuyuni, relieved miners of their gold, and had gotten high on marijuana seized at gunpoint from dealers on the Julian Ross Landing.

The matter was reported and Chief of Staff, Commodore Gary Best immediately ordered an investigation, which included carrying out drug tests on the soldiers fingered in the alleged attack.

They were subsequently arrested and brought to the city where they were charged with military offences, while the police continue to probe the allegations of criminal acts. “The GDF wishes to categorically state that any GDF ranks found culpable of this dastardly act will face the full brunt of Court Martial Proceedings or the Civil Law. Further, the Guyana Defence Force intends to ask for the maximum penalty for anyone found guilty,” the Chief of Staff had stated in a press release.

According to Commodore Best, preliminary investigations seem to suggest that some ranks had left the base without the proper authority.

He however cautioned that it was too early to determine if the ranks, who were off the base, were indeed at the location where the alleged incident took place.

This newspaper was informed that in addition to the investigative team, a Board of Inquiry led by a Lieutenant Colonel will travel to the base at Eteringbang today (Wednesday) to deal with any possible breaches of rules and regulations.

“We are sending a clear message to our ranks that we will not condone any such activities,” the army Chief of Staff told this newspaper.

In addition to the incident, the officers are also expected to discuss obvious issues such as national security and training. Sources in the army also indicate that the vexed question of treatment of Absent Without Leave (AWOL) soldiers will form part of the discussions at the conference.

A few weeks ago the photograph of a soldier lying almost naked in a concrete cell created unwanted publicity for the GDF. And recently the army put out an advertisement in the newspaper with the photographs of several AWOL soldiers.

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Kaieteur News

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NOC Commission of Inquiry…

Angoy’s Ave. murder…

Final report to be presented this month end

Suspect’s death in police custody questionable

The final report stating the findings of the inquiry which was set up to investigate the circumstances surrounding the violent escape of juveniles from the New Opportunity Corps (NOC) at Onderneeming on the Essequibo Coast, is expected to be presented to the public sometime this month end.

The document, which was put together by members of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) following two days of interviews of both the staffers and students of the juvenile detention facility, is currently being reviewed by Chairman of the COI, Justice Winston Moore.

This is according to Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport, as well as member of the Inquiry Commission, Alfred King.

King explained yesterday that the findings have been compiled into a document and that it has been recently handed over to Justice Moore who will conduct an extensive review of the document to ensure that there are no gaps.

After being stalled for a while to facilitate the replacement of Justice Prem Persaud who was named the initial Chairman of the COI, the investigation “seems to be heading somewhere”.

Alfred King A few months ago, a number of youngsters, ages ranging from 14 to 16 went on a violent rampage, storming through several communities while being armed with cutlasses and other weapons, in a bid to escape from the Juvenile detention facility.

After the incident which resulted in the destruction of parts of the facility, including the female dormitory and a workshop which were set afire, inmates and staffers gave their statements. It was as a result of controversial and differing statements that a Commission of Inquiry was set up.

Inmates had claimed that they were being abused by staffers, and that they had reached breaking point. A

senior Ministry official had however stated that none of the juveniles made any such allegations to the team which visited the centre shortly before the escape.

The Board of Inquiry comprises Alfred King; Senior Superintendent and Divisional Commander of ‘D’ Division, Christopher Griffith; Senior Probation Officer of Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, Trenetta Scott and Mr. Maydha Persaud, a retired headmaster and member of the Teaching Service Commission.

Of the 48 inmates who had appeared in court following the incident, eight were charged with arson, and 40 were arraigned for escaping from a training school. Thirty-six of them were male.

Thirteen of the juveniles pleaded guilty to escaping from the NOC, while the remaining 35 entered not guilty pleas.

Sixteen of the inmates were remanded to the juvenile facility in Georgetown, while the other 32 were returned to the NOC. Minister of Culture Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony has assured that any staffer found guilty of abusing the children when the report is presented this month end, will be dealt with accordingly.

- Body bore suspected marks of violence Relatives of the nowdead killer Narindra ‘Dado’ Thakoor are refuting reports that the Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam fisherman succumbed to poisoning and are suggesting that he was the victim of police brutality.

Thakoor was the fisherman who made headlines on January 16, last, after he hacked his 29-yearold reputed wife, Patricia Bacchus, to death.

It is alleged that Thakoor fled the scene with a bottle of insecticide in his possession.

He was subsequently arrested and taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital, where doctors reportedly said that there was nothing wrong with him and handed him over to the police. Soon after, he began to soil himself. Police ranks rushed him to hospital where he reportedly died an hour later. A post mortem which was conducted by pathologist Dr Vivekanand Brijmohan indicated that the killer had died of “suspected” organophosphate poisoning.

A medical source who saw the corpse refuted reports that there were marks of violence on the body and is adamant that Thakoor died from poisoning.

However, relatives of the dead man alleged that his body bore marks of violence and provided Kaieteur News with photographs (see front page) showing the alleged injuries. A police source also said there was no indication that the man had ingested the insecticide when he was arrested.

Zabeeda Thakoor, the dead man’s wife, alleged that she was barred from seeing him at the police station and the New Amsterdam Hospital.

“They (police) cranked a gun on me at the hospital and tell me to leave before they throw me into the lock-up and let me get the (expletive) out of the hospital”.

“All me hear the police came out and said that my husband died,” she stated.

“I asked them how he died and they took him and put him

in the mortuary and they said that I cannot see him and from the 16th January to the 21st January, and then they said that he died of suspected poisoning”.

Mrs. Thakoor stated, too, that upon examining the body at the funeral parlour, it was then she saw the marks on her husband’s body.

“All he fingers cut up, he head burst in the middle and all he back and bottom and foot and hands is sheer blackand-blue and bruises!”

She added that her relatives all witnessed the ‘marks of violence’ “and we took out some pictures and we don’t know what’s happening and we want justice! We knew that he killed the girl and we agree that he gotta pay the penalty – to go to jail—not for police brutalize he and kill he!

Mrs. Thakoor believes that there is no way that the poison ingested by her husband, after he murdered the woman, could have killed him.

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JAMAICA HITS IT BIG WITH RARE-EARTH ELEMENTS KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP) — Jamaican and Japanese officials on Monday launched a pilot project designed to investigate whether rare-earth elements can be commercially extracted from the island’s bauxite waste.

Researchers with Japan’s Nippon Light Metal Co. Ltd. believe they have found high concentrations of rare-earth elements in the island’s red mud, a byproduct of bauxite refining into alumina, the basic material for manufacturing aluminum.

During the pilot project, researchers from the two countries will treat some 30 tons of dry red mud with acid to potentially extract some of the 17 rare-earth elements that are vital in manufacturing smartphones, plasma screens, wind turbines, satellites and numerous other high-tech products.

In Jamaica, where the economy is tough and the local currency is sliding, hopes are soaring that the pilot project at the Jamaica

Bauxite Institute’s headquarters could result in a commercial deal to extract rare-earth oxides from the red waste stored in containment ponds around mining grounds.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller said that if the joint venture proves viable, it could be among the most “significant projects ever undertaken in Jamaica.”

“This project represents the kind of industrial diversification that this country needs it if is to realize its economic potential and improve living standards for our people,” Simpson Miller told Japanese dignitaries and Jamaican officials, scientists and businessmen. Parris Lyew-Ayee, chairman of the Jamaica Bauxite Institute, said he believes that that since Jamaica’s dry red mud deposits are stored in containment ponds he believes it will be simple and safe to harvest.

“There will be no mining operations and related pressures on the

Opposition BLP dubs ruling party ‘failed government’

Owen Arthur BRIDGETOWN, Barbados,– The main opposition Barbados Labour Party (BLP) continued its criticism of the Freundel Stuart government as it urged supporters to ensure the defeat of the ruling Democratic Labour Party (DLP) in the February 21 general election.

BLP leader, Owen Arthur, addressing a public meeting in the heart of the capital on Monday night, said that the island deserves better than the “failed government” now in power since it has failed the country in five years.

“It is clear this is a broken Government. This is a failed government. They should be giving account of what they have done. Barbadians are hurting. They want this

government to say when the hurting will stop. But we will stop the hurting.

“Barbados is more than economy, it is a society,” Arthur said, noting that without a strong economy, the society cannot progress.

He described the economy in its current state as “shrinking”.

“This notion that you can create a great society but don’t have a strong economy is a fallacy and a folly proven over and over again. “ In order to build a good society, the country must be able to produce goods and services more and more….

Every year the Barbados economy has been getting smaller and smaller and smaller,” Arthur told supporters.

He said that DLP government has been responsible for the increasing cost of living as well as not being able to address wage issues.

“It is unconscionable that there has been no wage settlement in this country in the public service since 2008, while at the same time, people’s prices have risen by over 30 per cent. So if your income is frozen and prices rise by 30 per cent, you are 30 (Continued on page 21)

environment,” said LyewAyee, who described the long-discussed feasibility of extracting rare-earth elements from bauxite tailings as a sort of “holy grail” on the island, where treated red mud was formerly used to make bricks for building sites.

China is now the globe’s main supplier of rare-earth elements. Worried by that dominance, manufacturers around the globe have been spurring searches for other sources that could be

profitably mined.

Rare-earth elements aren’t scarce, but few places exist with enough concentrations to be profitable. They are difficult to isolate in a purified form and require advanced technology to extract.

Paul Henderson, an honorary professor in the earth sciences department at University College London and who is not involved in the research in Jamaica, said the rock from which any bauxite is derived will ultimately

determine its rare-earth contents. “Not all bauxites will have much in the way of rare earths,” Henderson said in an email.

But Nippon Light Metal believes that the concentration of rare-earth elements in Jamaica’s red mud is “significantly greater” than other international red mud sites and it hopes to eventually extract 1,500 metric tons of rare-earth elements per year, said Energy Minister Phillip Paulwell.

Nippon has agreed to invest $3 million in buildings and equipment for the pilot project while also being responsible for operating costs. Any rare-earth elements extracted during this phase will be jointly owned

by Jamaica and the Japanese company. Negotiations for commercialization are expected to occur later.

Paulwell said in Parliament last month that rare-earth oxides were being traded at $3,500 per kilogram.

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Crime, violence hit Caribbean hard WASHINGTON D.C., United States,– The InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) says several commissioned studies have revealed that crime and violence have had a dramatic impact on women, youth and the economic well-being of families in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The new studies “underscore the more hidden dimensions of the cost of crime” on regional economies, by looking at issues such as women’s health and property values” said a statement issued by the organisation.

The studies were the result of a call for proposals to academics and other experts to use innovative and appropriate methodologies to measure the cost of crime and

violence in the region, the IDB said. Out of a total of 117 proposals received, eight were presented by their authors at a January 24–25 seminar at the IDB headquarters here.

“The children of women who have suffered from domestic violence have a greater risk of being born underweight, and grow up with more feeble health, with less chance they will be vaccinated and more likely to suffer from diarrhea,” said the IDB about one of the studies.

The Washington-based financial institution said Latin American and Caribbean citizens cite crime and violence as their top concern, above unemployment, healthcare and other issues.

It said the region suffers from some of the world’s highest homicide rates, stating that 20 of the world’s most violent cities are located in Latin America and the Caribbean.

“Crime has tangible direct costs, such as the cost of funding a private and public security infrastructure to prevent and combat crime,” said Ana Corbacho, sector economic advisor of the IDB’s Institutions for Development (IFD) Sector, which covers citizen security at the IDB. Gustavo Beliz, an IDB specialist, said “a better understanding of the economic costs of violence and crime is vital for publicsector decision-making in the citizen security sector. “It allows for a discussion more

Savage stabbing of British couple in Barbados makes waves in UK press

Horrific: Dr James Bridges and his professor wife Olga were repeatedly stabbed just minutes after arriving at a £1.3million villa in Barbados BRIDGETOWN, Barbados: , Barbados has made headlines in England again – and for all the wrong reasons.

A visiting British couple, Professor James Bridges and his wife Olga, were brutally attacked by a knife-wielding intruder within minutes of arriving at their rented villa in the island’s north-western parish of St Peter.

Professor Bridges, who is Chairman of the European Commission’s Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks, was stabbed three times while his wife suffered seven stab wounds, including a punctured spleen and diaphragm, according to The Telegraph. The Daily Mail added that Dr Olga Bridges also sustained a fractured rib in the carnage.

Dr Bridges, 62, underwent

emergency surgery at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) in Bridgetown where she was later said to be in a stable condition.

Speaking from the hospital, the 72-year-old professor described the “sheer terror” of being attacked soon after they arrived at the luxury West Coast beachfront villa where they had been scheduled to stay for two weeks.

“We had only just let ourselves into the villa. I was downstairs and my wife was upstairs. I heard screaming and rushed upstairs and saw

her being stabbed by a masked man with a knife,” he said. “I tried to pull him off, but he just started stabbing me. It was awful, just terrifying.

“After he stabbed me he just went back to stabbing my wife who was lying on the floor,” the professor added.

Professor Bridges, who is one of the UK’s leading experts on toxicology, went on to say that as he and his wife lay wounded, the masked intruder demanded to know where their money was.

After searching their bedroom for cash, the attacker returned and continued to stab them.

“It was just sheer terror. I still have a picture in my mind of him standing over her and repeatedly stabbing her,” the professor said.

The couple, from Guildford in Surrey, had reportedly only been in the villa for about 40 minutes when the savage attack took place last Friday evening.

A spokesman for the Royal Barbados Police Force said a local man was being questioned over the attack, but declined to give any further details.

The UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office confirmed that a British couple had been attacked in Barbados and consular assistance had been offered.

grounded on hard information, among officials in ministries who deal with the areas of security, planning and budgets”.

The IDB said it aims to support the efforts of public institutions to better prevent crime and violence with actions that include social initiatives focused on the creation of opportunities for young people, strengthening management of police and penal justice, and with better rehabilitation. (CMC)

Opposition BLP dubs...

From page 19 per cent worse off,” Arthur said, making references to several “promises” that would be released “in the coming days” in the party’s manifesto.

“As soon as practicable a Barbados Labour Party government has to negotiate a wage settlement with people who are in this dangerous situation… and

you have to do it in such a way that you can give some tax relief to those in the middle class and give a bigger percentage to those at the bottom. We commit to doing that for you,” Arthur said.

Arthur has also indicated that a BLP government would address the collapse of the regional insurance giant, CLICO and its impact on locals.

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Wednesday February 06, 2013

CHAD SOLDIERS ENTER REBEL-HELD TOWN Some 1,800 soldiers from Chad have entered Kidal, the last major town in northern Mali under rebel control, the French military says.

French-led forces captured Kidal’s airport last week but have not yet secured the town itself.

After Islamist fighters fled, separatist Tuareg fighters took control of the town.

UN, European and African officials are meeting in Brussels to discuss how to finance and organise rebuilding Mali.

One question is how to hold elections, which have been set for 31 July.

‘Threat to all’ French special forces have had control of Kidal airport for several days. But the Tuareg rebels did not want Mali’s army, which has been fighting alongside the French forces, to enter Kidal accusing its soldiers of killing Tuareg civilians in other towns they have recaptured with France’s help.

The French intervened in January, fearing that alQaeda-linked militants who

had controlled Mali’s vast north since April 2012 were about to advance on the capital, Bamako.

The French-led forces recaptured the other main town in northern Mali, Timbuktu and Gao, without a fight.

Islamist fighters are believed to have fled into the mountains around Kidal, near the Algerian border, where French forces have been carrying out air strikes against them.

Correspondents say the rapid progress of the Frenchled force has put the diplomatic focus on how to ensure lasting security in Mali.

“The threat concerns all civilised countries,” AFP news agency quotes Mali’s Foreign Minister Tieman Coulibaly as saying as he arrived for the international support group for Mali in Brussels on Tuesday.

“The entire world must gather around us to chase the jihadists from our soil,” he said.

Before the meeting began, one senior EU official told

Reuters news agency: “When a state falls apart, it takes a while to put it back together again. Nevertheless, we need to try.

“In the medium term, we need to look at ensuring the north has adequate funds for development so the communities there can build real livelihoods,” the official added.

The meeting will also look at how to fund, equip and train an 8,000-strong African force, which has UN and US backing, expected to eventually take over from the 3,500 French troops currently in Mali.

The EU aims to send about 500 military trainers to Mali by the middle of this month. Several hundred troops from Niger and other African countries have also begun to arrive to secure southern and central regions.

Funding for humanitarian aid will also be debated in Brussels.

Aid agencies warn that food and fuel supplies to some parts of northern Mali are starting to dry up.

Chadian soldiers are known to be experienced desert fighters About 45 delegations are expected at the Brussels

meeting including international lenders such as

the World Bank and the African Development Bank.

Parents sell little girls to appease drug lords (CNN) The mother of a little Afghan girl cannot even turn to face her daughter.

She looks down in shame as she explains why she must hand the girl over to drug lords.

The father of the girl has done what many Afghan farmers must do to finance their opium farms: borrow money from drug traffickers.

But the Afghan government and international forces’ attempt to halt the opium trade has quashed the father’s poppy business, and with it, his ability to pay back the lenders.

The drug lords have taken him hostage to extract a payment.

“I have to give my daughter to release my husband,” the mother explains with the girl at her side. She looks no older than six.

Ninety percent of the

world’s opium – the raw source of heroin – comes from Afghanistan. Growing poppy there has been a lucrative industry.

The Afghan government has been cracking down and destroying illegal crops, leaving many farmers in the same horrifying situation as the family forced to use their own daughter as collateral for the loan.

“They’re way more dangerous and powerful than the Taliban,” one father of two kidnapped children says about the drug lords.

He looks at a text messaged picture of his daughter being held in captivity as the captors demand $20,000 from the man over the telephone.

Quraishi told CNN’s Christiane Amanpour that when the families give up their children, they are often taken to other countries, like Pakistan or Iran, where they

are used for transporting drugs or put into sex slavery.

One little girl who was lucky enough to escape her captors recounts just how horrible the conditions were.

“They wouldn’t allow me to change my clothes. They wouldn’t give me soap to wash them.

My clothes became worn out on my body. They did every possible cruelty to me.

I really fear that those smugglers will take me again.”

Even if the girls do escape, they often have nowhere to go while they search for their families.

The filmmakers did find one halfway house, but it was only enough for about 30 girls.

The looming fear is that this horrendous situation could worsen when international troops leave Afghanistan in 2014.

Dell computers to be bought back by founder Michael Dell Bruce Upbin, managing editor of Forbes magazine, explains to the BBC that Michael Dell is the right person to move the company forward.

Michael Dell has said he will buy back the world’s number three PC-maker that he founded and which carries his name.

Along with technology investor Silver Lake, and with financial backing from Microsoft, he will offer to buy

the firm for $24.4bn (£15.5bn).

The move will take Dell off the Nasdaq stock exchange after 25 years.

Mr Dell hopes to turn the tide for a firm that has struggled to compete with cheap Asian rivals and the boom in smartphones and tablet computers.

Dell’s success over the last 29 years has made its founder one of the richest men in America.

The chief executive and

chairman already owns about 14 per cent of the firm.

He and fellow senior executives will retain their existing stakes.

The buy-out of the remaining shares will be carried out by a consortium made up of Mr Dell himself, his own investment fund, and Silver Lake.

It will be financed by loans from four banks, and by a $2bn loan from Microsoft.

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Kaieteur News

Woman rescues children from prison

Pushpa Basnet pictured with the rescued children

Kathmandu, Nepal (CNN) — Pushpa Basnet doesn’t need an alarm clock. Every morning, the sounds of 40 children wake her up in the two-story home she shares with them.

As she helps the children dress for school, Basnet might appear to be a housemother of sorts. But the real story is more complicated.

All of these children once lived in Nepal’s prisons. This 28-year-old woman has saved every one of them from a life behind bars.

Nepal is one of the poorest countries in the world — according to UNICEF, 55% of the population lives below

the international poverty line — so it lacks the social safety net that exists in most Western nations.

Space is extremely limited in the few children’s homes affiliated with the government.

So when no local guardian is available, an arrested parent often must choose between bringing their children to jail with them or letting them live on the streets.

Nepal’s Department of Prison Management estimates 80 children live in the nation’s prisons.”It’s not fair for (these) children to live in the prison because they

haven’t done anything wrong,” said Basnet, who started a nongovernmental organization to help. “My mission is to make sure no child grows up behind prison walls.”

Basnet is one of several in Nepal who have started groups to get children out of prison. Since 2005, she has assisted more than 100 children of incarcerated parents.

She runs a day care programme for children under six and a residential home where mostly older children receive education, food, medical care and a chance to live a more normal life.

Corruption in China: Policeman ‘bought 192 homes with fake ID’ A senior policeman in the southern Chinese city of Lufeng is alleged to have bought 192 houses with fake identity papers, state media report.

Zhao Haibin is no longer a police chief, but he is still a senior figure in the local Communist Party.

Xinhua says that Mr Zhao has admitted having another ID, but says he only managed flats owned by his brother.

There is widespread anger over similar cases where officials used fake identities to buy multiple properties.

Police this week arrested a woman - dubbed “house sister” by online whistleblowers - who used forged papers to buy more than 40 properties worth at least 1 billion yuan ($159m; £101m).

Gong Aiai was a former vice-president of the Shenmu Country rural commercial bank in Yulin city.

She was detained on Monday for forging official documents and a government stamp, Xinhua reports.

At least seven other people, including police officers, have been detained for helping her with the forgery.

Police in north-east China say they are also investigating an anticorruption official who allegedly bought more than a dozen properties in his wife’s name.

‘TIGERSAND FLIES’ Mr Zhao, who was the deputy police chief in Lufeng, has been dubbed China’s most corrupt official online, reports the BBC’s Damian Grammaticas in Beijing.

He is alleged to have bought all 192 flats using his identity, the fake identity and a company name.

The case came to light in 2011 after he was reported by a businessman who was involved in a dispute with the

officer, the Guangzhou Daily newspaper said.

Authorities cancelled the false card at that time.

An official in Lufeng’s Communist Party’s disciplinary department told the AFP news agency that the inquiry into the case was over and Mr Zhao had retained his posts in the party.

Many of these cases have come to light since China’s new leader Xi Jinping promised last year to crack down on corruption, saying it threatened the Communist Party’s hold on power.

They have caused widespread anger and outrage online and some Chinese campaigners have set out to act as “whistleblowers”, exposing alleged wrongdoing on the part of officials.

Last month, Mr Xi promised he would battle both “tigers” and “flies”, indicating that officials at all ranks in the country were under scrutiny.

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Argentina vows to control Falklands

The Falkland Islands will be back under Argentine control within “20 years”, the country’s foreign minister Hector Timerman has said.

On a visit to London, he claimed “not one” other nation supported UK sovereignty of the Falklands.

Speaking to the Guardian and Independent, Mr Timerman said Britain had “occupied” the islands for “access to oil and natural resources”.

A referendum on the Falkland Islands political status will be held in March.

Mr Timerman was meanwhile confronted by elected representatives of the

Falkland Islands in the House of Commons Lobby yesterday.

The foreign minister refused to accept a letter about the future of the Islands or to talk to the representatives.

He was in the Commons to address the All Party Group on Argentina.

Mr Timerman, who spoke to reporters at the Argentine embassy in London, said the UK “never missed an opportunity to miss an opportunity to find a solution for the Malvinas”, the Argentine name for the islands.

[The UK] are using the

people living in the islands for political [reasons] and to have access to oil and natural resources which belong to the Argentine people” Relations between the British and Argentine government have soured in recent months. Last year marked 30 years since the Falklands War, when the islands were occupied by Argentine forces for 74 days.

Mr Timerman rejected a invitation to discuss the issue with Foreign Secretary William Hague last week, after Mr Hague invited members of the Falkland Islands government to the meeting.

Page 24

Kaieteur News

DTV CHANNEL 8 08:55 hrs. Sign On 09:00 hrs. GMA 10:00 hrs. Live! With Kelly and Michael 11:00 hrs. The Ricki Lake Show 12:00 hrs. The View 13:00 hrs. Prime News

Wednesday February 06, 2013

13:30 hrs. The Young and the Restless 14:30 hrs. The Bold and the Beautiful 15:00 hrs. The Talk 16:00 hrs. Steve Harvey 17:00 hrs. The Ellen

DeGeneres Show 18:00 hrs. World News 18:30 hrs. The Wayans Bros 19:00 hrs. Greetings and Announcements 20:00 hrs. Channel 8 News 21:00 hrs. Person of Interest

(Repeat) 22:00 hrs. Criminal Minds (New Episode) 23:00 hrs. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (New Episode) 00:00 hrs. Sign Off

Guides are subjected to change without notice

Wednesday February 06, 2013 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Your social life is improving, but you still might have to deal with stress that won’t magically disappear.

Even with so much happening now, find time to enjoy your friends.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) This can be a fantastic day as your key planet Venus harmonizes with surprising Uranus and auspicious Jupiter. Instead of being so set in your ways, remain open to the extraordinary potential that exists in each moment.

You won’t benefit by being afraid of the future.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) An unexpected event may cause your friend or partner to pull in the reins now.

Unfortunately, you don’t like it when someone else tries to control you. At another time in your life, you might have gone along with the change of plans, but you are more than ready to stand up for your needs today.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Even if you continue to ride the roller coaster of your feelings today, they won’t carry you away from a very sweet encounter that’s on your radar. However, your fear could close the door to a magnificent experience before it even happens.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Fantastic news could come your way today, but you have to be receptive to the message or it will pass you by unnoticed. The reward or acknowledgment you receive now might not be what you expect. You may be lucky enough to get an unexpected cash windfall or meet a very special person.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) It’s healthier to express your feelings than to keep them to yourself, even if you’re anxious about the reaction you might receive.

Although this assertive behavior may be contrary to your natural inclination, taking a risk is a really good idea now.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) It feels as if everything will turn out for the best now because your key planet Venus is harmonizing with ingenious Uranus and lucky Jupiter. But don’t be lazy today; waiting for something incredible to happen is not a smart strategy. Step outside of your normal comfort zone to manifest the beauty that you experience in your space of dreams.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your positive attitude remains the ultimate key to your happiness today, even in the most difficult situations.

Although material success might be a lingering problem, don’t let your goals get in your way now. Do whatever makes you feel good about yourself and the money will follow.

SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Your key planet, extravagant Jupiter, receives a delicious kiss today from Venus the Lover. Even if you have been struggling recently, it’s difficult for you to be negative now. Others, too, are more optimistic while in your presence.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) The stress at work could be temporarily released because your bosses and associates suddenly see you as more graceful and charming than before. You’re eager to encourage others today and your current optimism is reflected back at you.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) You may be able to get away with some mischief today, but don’t push your luck too far or your day could implode. However, even if you go overboard, you should be able to get everything back on track quickly.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Unexpected events can be shocking, even when they only occur in your fantasies or dreams. However, your destiny is within your control if you decide to consciously wake up and change the channel.

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Wednesday February 06, 2013

GFF / EBFA U-17 Final Grove Hi Tec were unstoppable on their way to lifting the 2012 edition of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) sponsored East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Under-17 League, defeating Craig 5-1 at the Grove Playfield on Sunday last.

In the third place matchup, Soesdyke Falcons took that position following a comfortable 3-0 win over Diamond United. In the final, Grove took control of proceedings from start to end and were led by a brace off the boot of Joel Dick who netted in the 59th and 65th minute. Roderick McKenzie opened proceedings in the 40th minute, Clive Matthews added his name to the score sheets in the 61st while Nickolai Matthews closed out the deal in the 70th minute.

Kaieteur News

Page 27

Grove Hi Tec beat Craig 5-1 to win tourney; Soesdyke defeat Diamond for 3rd Pulling one back for good measure for Craig was Shaquelle Evans in the 62nd minute. The third place clash which preceded the final saw Soesdyke Falcons easily taking care of business against Diamond United which featured two female players. The players on target for the winners were Dwayne Barker in the 5th minute, Tyron Khan in the 15th and Brandon Singh in the 47th minute.

Individual awards were presented to Nickolai Matthews who ended as the leading goal scorer of the tournament finding the nets on 7 occasions. Soesdyke Falcons’ Desmond Mc Lean was named the best goalkeeper, while the Fair Play Trophy was presented to Diamond United.

EBFA President Wayne Francois (left) pose with the triumphant Grove Hi Tec Under-17 team following the presentation of trophies and medals.

Light/middleweight title fight on as doctors give Dorway clean bill of health

Gladwin Dorway

Mark Austin

He was recently diagnosed with what appeared to be a serious heart disease that forced the cancellation of the Light/ middleweight title fight against Mark Austin on January 25 last.

However, after conforming to stringent medical tests at the Caribbean Heart Institute (CHI), top ranked local light/ middleweight boxer, Gladwin Dorway has been given a clean bill of health and the medical professionals at that institution has advised President of the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC), Peter Abdool, that the recently aborted bout could now be staged.

Mr. Abdool informed Kaieteur Sport of the new development yesterday morning, shortly after he was formally briefed on the state of affairs.

He said that Dr Mahendra Carpen MBBS/DM, the consultant cardiologist and Medical Director of the CHI has been directly responsible for the examination and issued the positive prognosis.

“Dr Carpen told me that after extensive medical examinations were conducted, he concluded that Dorway is free of any Cardiac disease and it is safe to engage him in combat,” said the GBBC boss.

Mr. Abdool said that he was relieved by the news since he had been concerned ever since Dorway was diagnosed as being inflicted with heart disease. He said that now that Dorway has received the green light his executives will go ahead with the bout. He is still to decide on a suitable date.

Mr. Abdool also apologized to boxing fans for the cancellation of the bout

but said that he was faced with a risky decision and opted for the safest choice.

“I am certain that the quality of the fight when it eventually happens will compensate for the disappointment,” asserted Mr. Abdool.

On January 25 last Dorway was scheduled to match gloves with Mark Austin for the local Jnr/ middleweight title but prefight medical examinations, conducted by Dr Max Hanoman, discovered a heart ailment that posed serious risks to the boxer’s health, forcing the doctor to suggest further tests and consequently the cancellation of the bout.

On the night of the card, Mr. Abdool had informed that following Dorway’s prognosis, boxing officials conducted background checks and discovered that Dorway’s condition appears to be hereditary as several other family members were stricken by similar problems.

He also indicated a willingness to assist in any way possible and had sought medical advice to ascertain whether his organization could have helped in corrective procedures thus the referral to Doctor Hanoman. Fans could now rest easy even as they await the Austin/Dorway bout which promises to be heated and action packed.

Commenting on the tournament EBFA President Wayne Francois said he was pleased with the overall performance of the six participating clubs despite

the challenges that they faced. He thanked the GFF for their continued support for the development of youth football noting that his association also ran off an

Under-14 tournament which was also sponsored by the GFF. Francois disclosed that shortly his association will kick off an Under-15, 21 and senior tournaments.

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 06, 2013

A&F Shipping T\20 cricket in Wakenaam...

CRICKET ZONE SUPPORTS Good Success, Sans Souci CHANDRIKA, KHAN

Jaguars record victories

Amir Khan (3rd left) and Rajendra Chandrika (2nd right), receive their gear from Theresa Foster. Sharing the moment are from right, Ravi Etwaroo, Charles Adams and Sahadeo Ramkirath.

In an act of benevolence, Cricket Zone, located at the bottom flat of the Fogarty’s building on Water Street, on Monday presented a quantity of gear to national senior cricketers, Rajendra Chandrika and Amir Khan, as they prepare to represent Guyana in the Regional Fourday and Super50 competitions.

At a simple presentation ceremony, opening batsman Chandrika was presented with thigh pad and a pair of footwear, while leg-spinner Khan received a pair of batting gloves and pads.

Overseas-based Guyanese, Ravi Etwaroo, the proprietor of Cricket Zone, said he’s very pleased to support the two youngsters, whom he pointed out have tremendous potential.

Etwaroo, who also runs a branch of Cricket Zone in New York, added that apart from their natural talents, both Chandrika and Khan have displayed high levels of discipline on and off the field of play.

“And I personally want to wish both young men all the best in the upcoming regional tournament, and hopefully they can enhance their chances of playing for the We s t I n d i e s , ” E t w a r o o said.

This is not the first time that Cricket Zone has thrown its support behind young and promising cricketers, and Etwaroo assured that his entity will continue to offer assistance in the future. He used the opportunity to invite cricketers to visit Cricket Zone, as the company will

continue to import quality brands and genuine equipment at an affordable price.

In accepting the donation, Chandrika and Khan expressed gratitude to Etwaroo, while promising to deliver good performances during the upcoming regional competitions, which bowl off this week at various territories across the Caribbean.

Chief Financial Officer of Fogarty’s, Sahadeo Ramkirath, said the establishment is pleased to partner with Cricket Zone in helping the duo in their cricketing endeavours. Also present at the presentation ceremony were Compliance Officer Theresa Foster and Senior Supervisor (Sports Section) Charles Adams, both of Fogarty’s.

Good Success and Sans Souci recorded victories when play in the Wakenaam Cricket Committee\A&F Shipping Twenty\20 competition commenced last Sunday at the Wakenaam Community Center ground.

In the first game at 10:00hrs, Good Success defeated Maria’s Pleasure by 3 wickets. Maria’s Pleasure batted first and were bowled out for 97 in 19.2 overs. Vinod Sanchara was the only batsman that offered any resistance with 18(2x4) as Chandreka Ragnauth grabbed 3-8 and Nazeer Mohamed 3-12. Good Success then replied with 987 in 11.3 overs with Shoaib Namaz top scoring with 44(1x4, 4x6) while Imran Khan supported with 28(2x4,1x6).

Shoaib Namaz Sanchara took 3-23.

In the second match, Sans Souci Jaguars got the better of Sans Souci by 35 runs.

Rashaad Rasheed 37 (1x4,4x6), Zameer Zaman 29(2x4,2x6) and Satrohan Shiwnandan 20 (2x4) led the Jaguars to a challenging 1608 in 20 overs after they took

first strike. Off spinner Vickram Ramnarine bagged 516 for Sans Souci who were skittled for 125 in 17.2 overs.

Satnarine Sahadeo was their leading run getter with 32 (1x4,3x6) while Tulsieram Ramadeen contributed 28 (2x4,1x6). Left arm spinner Moin Khan claimed 3-3 and Rasheed 2-28. However this encounter was marred by off field controversies where a fan supporting the Sans Souci team hit one of the umpires after the game.

Meanwhile Public Relations Officer of the WCC Keval Persaud told Kaieteur Sport that the committee would like to congratulate allrounder Ricardo Adams for his selection on the Guyana Super 50 team and wished him all the best in his career.

National team departs for C’bean Super 50 tourney The Guyana team to contest the West Indies Super 50 tournament departed the country yesterday after a simple ceremony at the Windjammer Hotel in Kitty. President of the Guyana Cricket Board Drubahadur in a brief remark wished the team well. “The entire country is behind this team and I am confident you guys will win this competition, so have fun and do us proud”, he added.

Secretary of the GCB Anand Sanasie urged the players to give their best. He said the team did well in the recently concluded Caribbean Twenty\20 tournament and challenged them to better that performance. “The semifinals will be played in Guyana if we qualify, so I would like you to support the management team and play as a unit”, stated Sanasie. He also informed that the new format

Tourists’ last chance...

From page 30 had seemed at times.

TEAM NEWS Xavier Doherty is a probable inclusion for the third match of the series, having sat out both fixtures in Perth. One of the left-armers, James Faulkner or Mitchell Johnson, appears the most most likely to make way. West Indies will be hopeful of a recall for Andre Russell, who missed both the WACA fixtures due to a knee problem.

PITCH AND CONDITIONS Canberra’s surface could not be much more different than Perth’s lively, bouncy strip, while the breeze and atmosphere is not known to encourage much swing either.

of the tournament gives them an opportunity to change a maximum of three players for each round.

Meanwhile, Captain Veerasammy Permaul said the team is a balanced one and the players are hungry for success.

“I always endeavour to do my best as captain and my aim is to bring glory to my country”, he stated. Permaul also said team spirit and hard work are very important in achieving success. He thanked the President Drubahadur and Secretary Sanasie for their encouragement.

In an invited comment, eighteen year old all-rounder Ricardo Adams, who hails From Wakenaam and is the youngest member of the team, said he happy to be part of the squad and will put his best foot forward. He also told Kaieteur Sport that he wished to thank all those who have supported him so far in his career.

Guyana will play the Leeward Islands in their first game on Thursday at the Antigua Recreation Ground.

The team reads: Veerasammy Permaul (Capt.), Christopher Barnwell (Vice Captain), Rajendra Chandrika, Trevon Griffith, Leon Johnson, Rajiv Ivan, Ricardo Adams, Devendra Bishoo, Paul Wintz, Assad Fudadin, Ronsford Beaton, Steven Jacobs and Derwin Christian. The manager is Alvin Johnson and the coach is Esau Crandon.

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 29

National team departs for C’bean Super 50 tourney The Guyana team to contest the West Indies Super 50 tournament departed the country yesterday after a simple ceremony at the Windjammer Hotel in Kitty. President of the Guyana Cricket Board Drubahadur in a brief remark wished the team well.

“The entire country is behind this team and I am confident you guys will win this competition, so have fun and do us proud”, he added.

Secretary of the GCB Anand Sanasie urged the players to give their best. He said the team did well in the recently concluded Caribbean Twenty\20 tournament and challenged them to better that performance.

“The semifinals will be played in Guyana if we qualify, so I would like you to support the management team and play as a unit”, stated Sanasie.

He also informed that the new format of the tournament gives them an opportunity to change a maximum of three players for each round.

Meanwhile, Captain Veerasammy Permaul said the team is a balanced one and the players are hungry for success.

“I always endeavour to do my best as captain and my aim is to bring glory to my country”, he stated.

Permaul also said team spirit and hard work are very important in achieving success.

He thanked the President Drubahadur and Secretary Sanasie for their encouragement.

In an invited comment, eighteen year old all-rounder Ricardo Adams, who hails From Wakenaam and is the youngest member of the team, said he happy to be part of the squad and will put his best foot forward.

He also told Kaieteur Sport that he wished to thank all those who have supported him so far in his career.

Guyana will play the Leeward Islands in their first game on Thursday at the Antigua Recreation Ground.

The team reads: Veerasammy Permaul (Capt.),

Members of the national team shortly before their departure at the Wind Jammer hotel yesterday with GCB President Drubahadur (left) and secretary Anand Sanasie (right).

Christopher Barnwell (Vice Captain), Rajendra Chandrika, Trevon Griffith,

Leon Johnson, Rajiv Ivan, Ricardo Adams, Devendra Bishoo, Paul Wintz, Assad

Fudadin, Ronsford Beaton, Steven Jacobs and Derwin Christian.

The manager is Alvin Johnson and the coach is Esau Crandon.

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Tourists’ last chance Star Party Rental supports on contrasting pitch Unique Entertainment/Banks

Andre Russell ESPNcricinfo - Following an opening hiding with a more creditable display in game two, the West Indies are nonetheless only a game away from losing this series 3-0. Australia have been spearheaded brilliantly by Mitchell Starc, while George Bailey played an innings of thoughtfulness and quality to ensure a defensible total after the rest of the hosts’ batting folded on Sunday. The fast,

lively Perth pitch prepared for the first two matches will be in sharp contrast to the strip of turf expected for Manuka Oval’s first day/night ODI match, as the oval is well known for providing one of the most amiable if nondescript surfaces in the country.

How the two teams adapt to the surface will be one of the most intriguing subplots of the match. The lower bounce and slower pace will provide something of a relief for several batsmen on both sides, in particular Shane Watson as he attempts to regain form and confidence after injury. Chris Gayle is another lacking in many runs behind him this summer, both with the West Indies and the Sydney Thunder in the BBL. If the visitors are to regather some kind of chance to salvage the series in the nation’s capital, then Gayle will be hopeful of figuring prominently.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Presently unable to contribute anything as a bowler, Shane Watson is running out of innings to show he can find strong form as a batsman alone before the India Test series. A trio of low scores on his return from a calf injury at grade and domestic level did not prevent his ODI recall, and Watson will hope for an innings of power and permanence at Manuka Oval. Should he get through the new ball, the manner in which Watson tackles Sunil Narine will be of particular interest.

Scores of 6, 11 and 14 on this tour so far represent a gentle but insubstantial upward curve for Darren Bravo. As an unquestionably gifted batsman he needs to be doing more, and can use the example provided so far by Kieran Powell as inspiration for the third match of the series in Canberra, on a surface likely to be far more brimful of runs than Perth’s (Continued on page 28)

Premium Beer Futsal Classic - final Round-of-32 matches to be played tonight

Unique Entertainment Co-Director Keith Murray (left) receives sponsorship from a representative of Star Party Rental for their Banks Premium Beer Futsal Classic.

Star Party Rental became the latest entity to offer support to the Unique Entertainment/Banks Premium Beer Futsal Classic, which is presently being played in Linden, at the Mackenzie Sports Club Hard Court.

At a simple presentation at the company’s Craig Street Campbellville location, Keith Murray, a representative of the Organisers was handed a cheque for an undisclosed sum with the business

expressing delight to be associated with the event.

Murray thanked proprietor Lennox Cush and his hard working team for their timely donation, adding that Unique Entertainment is always happy to receive the support of corporate Guyana.

Meanwhile, the tournament will resume tonight, with the final roundof-32 matches being played.

The opening game from 19:00 hours will see Young Spartans and Ambassadors

going head-to-head, while El Dorado ‘B’ will attempt to emulate their first string team performance as they face Top ‘7’. Block 22 is down to face Hot Skull FC and Top Class will play Avengers in the night’s final game.

The Round of 16 is expected to start tomorrow night at the same venue.

The winning team will pocket $500,000 while second and third place are set to receive $300,000 and $150,000 respectively.

Demerara Cricket Club congratulates Barnwell on RCB selection ‘The President, Executives and members of the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) wish to congratulate Christopher Barnwell on his selection to represent the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the 2013 Indian Premier League,’ the club said in a release.

“Coming on the heels of his superb all round performance for Guyana in the just concluded Caribbean T20 competition, his quick auction was no surprise and is testimony to his hard work and commitment. Barnwell, who started playing cricket for DCC at age 14, is the only Guyanese to be selected in

this year’s Indian Premier League. The pugnacious hitter of the ball, medium fast bowler and emerging West Indian player was also recently named Vice Captain of the Guyana Regional 50 Overs team.”

“President of Demerara Cricket Club, Alfred Mentore, welcomes the news of Barnwell’s selection and notes that it’s very encouraging to see the Guyanese cricketers excelling despite the problems we are experiencing locally.

He also lamented that he expects Barnwell to remain grounded, committed and dedicated despite the signing by the Indian Premier League. He urged

him to continue doing the same things that got him there in the first place and to remain committed to Guyana and West Indies cricket.

Barnwell joins a long list of Demerara Cricket Club players that represented Guyana and the West Indies, including the legendary Clive Lloyd.

President Mentore also h o p e s t h a t B a r n w e l l ’s selection will motivate and energize the other talented and dedicated young cricketers not only at Demerara Cricket Club, but also from the other clubs in Guyana,” the release concluded.

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Kaieteur News

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Crandon has great Stuart Broad hat-trick seals victory expectations for Guyana Stuart Broad celebrates his hat-trick (AFP)

BBC Sport - Captain Stuart Broad took a hat-trick as England romped to a 46-run Twenty20 victory over a New Zealand XI in the opening warm-up match of their tour.

Batting first, England racked up 186-3 in Whangarei, with Jos Buttler smashing 57 off 24 balls and Eoin Morgan 48. Chris Woakes (3-27) and Jade Dernbach (3-24) worked their way through the Kiwi top order to put England on top.

And Broad removed three tailenders in successive balls in the penultimate over as the hosts were 140 all out. The hat-trick crowned a successful return to England colours for Broad, who was forced to leave

the tour of India in December with a bruised heel.

The tourists had lost Alex Hales early, driving a length ball to mid-off, before Michael Lumb was caught at deep cover for 25 off as many balls.

Luke Wright upped the ante with 44 off 32 balls in a stand of 61 in seven overs with Morgan. But his departure merely cleared the stage for wicketkeeper-batsman Buttler, who cracked three sixes and six fours in his first fifty in an England shirt.

The New Zealand XI reply was soon in disarray after Woakes dismissed Anton Devcich for five Hamish Rutherford for nine.

The hosts lost wickets at regular intervals as the required run rate spiralled into double figures. And when Chris Munro was bowled

by Dernbach for 55 with the last ball of the 18th over the game was effectively up.

There was still time for Broad to snatch some late glory, however, as he had Andrew Ellis caught on the deep mid-wicket boundary, Ian Butler caught at mid-on off a skier and Matt Henry caught behind by Buttler.

Dernbach then removed Michael Bates with the penultimate ball of the match to round off a highly satisfying match for the tourists.

England play the same opponents on Wednesday before the first of three Twenty20 internationals against New Zealand on Saturday, with the one-day and Test series to follow.

GEORGETOWN, Guyana – Esuan Crandon said he was looking for a continued positive performance from his side in this year’s Regional 4Day and Super50 Tournaments.

The Guyana coach said he expected much better performances in comparison to last year’s tournament.

“Last year when we played, we made the semifinals for both the 4-Day and Super50 tournaments and I think with the calibre of players we have, coupled with the positive attitude that is being shown at the moment coming from the Caribbean Twenty20 Tournament, we stand a good chance of bettering last year’s performance in both formats of the tournament,” said the 31-year-old former national all-rounder.

He added: “In the Super50, we stand a much better chance as some of the players enjoy that format of the game. We also have a wellbalanced team. All we have to

do is go out there, work to our game plan, adapt to the conditions as quickly as possible, then I don’t see why we cannot come out victorious in the end.”

Crandon, national coach for the last year, said preparation time for the two tournaments was too short, especially after the squad was selected, but still felt his side had what it took to get the job done, when the time is right.

“We did not have much time to do the necessaries as a team, since the nucleus of the squad was away competing in the CT20, while the others were battling for supremacy in the intercounty tournament,” he said.

“I still have faith in the team and once we execute our game plans effectively, we can come out on top over any team, as was evident in that crucial semi-final match against Jamaica in the CT20, when many people had written us off, even before we batted.”

Crandon was referring to Guyana’s successful run

chase against the Jamaicans, who thanks to Chris Gayle’s unbeaten ton, had posted 188 from their 20 overs to which the Guyanese replied with 189 for four, thanks to Christopher Barnwell’s robust 88.

For the first round of matches against Leeward Islands at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Guyana will be without the services of the experienced West Indies trio in Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Ramnaresh Sarwan and Narsingh Deonarine.

Crandon said their absence has created a void which cannot be filled.

“Obviously, the absence of these three players has left a hole in our team, as their contribution towards the make-up of the team is vital,” he said.

“I think we have some players who are capable enough to step in and fill the gap however, and this is the perfect opportunity for them to do so, giving the team a good position with a positive start to the tournament.”

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 06, 2013

WICB announces new contract with Head Coach Ottis Gibson St John’s, Antigua – The West Indies Cricket Board yesterday announced that Ottis Gibson has signed a new contract as Head Coach.

The term of the contract is three years and will go to 2016.

Gibson has served in the position for the past three years, from January 2010.

“Ottis has added significant value to the development of the West Indies Team during his tenure and we are delighted to have

secured his services for another three years,” WICB Chief Executive Officer Michael Muirhead said.

“Most notably is that he led the implementation of a system of professionalism within the team unit and curbed the negative results which we were experiencing with some frequency. There have also been clear successes under his stewardship from 2010 to date. These include, most notably, having coached the

team to the World Twenty20 title, the team showing consistent improvements in the other formats, the reintegration of players into the team unit and the achievement of the set goals as outlined in the WICB Strategic Plan 2011 – 2016,” Muirhead added.

“While there have also been some challenges along the way, these are not to be unexpected in such a dynamic and high pressure environment and the WICB

looks forward to the continued development of the West Indies team through this next critical phase under Ottis’ stewardship at the elite team level,” Muirhead said.

Gibson commented: “I enjoy being involved in West Indies cricket and it is something I’m very excited about considering what we have achieved – especially in the last year – beating New Zealand at home in all three formats and winning the ICC World Twenty20 tournament

Ottis Gibson

in Sri Lanka. This confirms that we are making progress and I am happy to continue with the team for the next three years as we look to take West Indies cricket forward.”

“There is a lot to do and things to look forward to.

There is the Champions Trophy in England this year, we will be defending the World T20 title in Bangladesh next year and there is the World Cup in 2015.

These are things we have talked about and these are things the selectors have been planning for,” Gibson continued.

“We will also look to climb the ICC rankings in all three formats. This is something we have to strive for, to make the move up. There is a lot more One-Day cricket than Test cricket this year, but next year there are quite a few more Test matches, so these will be opportunities for the players to perform and for the team to progress. You set goals and the real enjoyment is when you achieve those goals and see progress being made,” Gibson concluded.

Gibson is currently with the West Indies team in Australia.

GCB congratulates Barnwell “The President and Members of the Guyana Cricket Board join in congratulating Christopher Barnwell on his induction to the Indian Premiere League (IPL). Christopher, who has performed brilliantly in the just concluded Caribbean T20 tournament for regional teams, has been acquired by Royal Challengers Bangalore.

This promising West Indian cricketer has demonstrated all the qualities that are reflective of great players and therefore it comes as no surprise that his talents are valued at the IPL,” the Board said in a release.

“Christopher Barnwell received his groundings as a young player who came through the ranks starting from the under-19 all the way to the senior team

representing Guyana. He also had the honour of representing the Region on the international stage. All through these experiences he was known for his drive and passion for cricket. It therefore comes as no surprise for us at the Board to learn of his induction to the IPL. With this new success we urge the young player to remain committed to the Region and West Indian cricket. While the lure of the T 20 game is great, the overall development and success of a cricketer lies in the imbedding in the national side i.e. West Indies.

We wish him a very good season with the Royal Challengers as a player but more so a Guyanese Cricketer.”

GCUC Ordinary General Meeting set for Sunday The Guyana Cricket Umpires Council Ordinary General Meeting is set for Sunday, 10th of February 2013 at the Georgetown Cricket Club, Bourda commencing at 10:00hrs.

Umpires are reminded that they must pay a contribution of US$5.00 to the West Indies

Cricket Umpires Association (WICUA). This sum is due for the year 2012; Umpires who have not paid are asked to make a stringent effort to ensure that this outstanding money is paid on or before the OGM. Please not that this rule applies to all umpires in the West Indies.

Wednesday February 06, 2013

Kaieteur News

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Cole will earn 100th England cap Guyana Softball League endorses BBC Sport - England manager Roy Hodgson says leftback Ashley Cole will start against Brazil at Wembley on Wednesday to earn his 100th international cap. Cole, 32, made his national team debut in March 2001 against Albania and will become the seventh England player to reach a century of appearances.

“Ashley will definitely start the game,” said Hodgson. “I’ll have to see what to do with [fellow leftback] Leighton [Baines], who has been doing very well.”

There were suggestions Cole may lead the team out against Brazil instead of regular captain Gerrard but Hodgson ruled out such a prospect. Gerrard won his 100th cap in a friendly against Sweden last November and he and Cole will both get their caps at Wembley. “I don’t see any reason why the captain should let anyone else lead the team out,” explained Hodgson.

“Ashley does his talking and work on the field and I don’t think he’s ever pushed himself

Ashley Cole forward during his 100 appearances as a potential captain of the team. “I think he’s just very happy to be a key player in the team so I’m pretty certain he won’t be trying to rip the armband off Steven. If he does I might have to step in.”

The game against Brazil will be a warm-up for England’s two World Cup qualifiers in March against San Marino and Montenegro.

“Experiment is not a word I really want to use. We’re taking the game too seriously

for me to even entertain the word experiment, but on the other hand it is a friendly match,” said Hodgson.

“For us it’s another important step along the way.

“We think it’s a great way to start 2013 and our 150th anniversary, and we’ll be doing our best to play well and get a good result, but finally for me it’s a question of knowing by March what our best team is and what players play best together.”

Hodgson has had to contend with strikers Jermain Defoe and Daniel Sturridge pulling out of his squad because of ankle and thigh injuries respectively, while midfielder Michael Carrick (hip) is also missing.

The withdrawal of the forward pair could prompt the England boss to use Theo Walcott up front as opposed to on the wing. “We’re disappointed to lose the three players who were originally selected, but luckily we’ve still got plenty left and everyone trained on Tuesday so we’re all set for the game.”

Guyana Veteran Football Association hosts overseas counterparts in fundraiser Footballers of the Guyana Veteran Football Association (GVFA) were thrown into grief following the discovery of a former colleague, Winston DeHaarte, whose body was retrieved from a trench opposite the East La Penitence Night Shelter, Wednesday morning last.

Coach of the GVFA and former national player, Godfrey Norville, said that the news was very upsetting as most of the players of his organization would have played with the deceased.

He said that DeHaarte, a former British Guiana and Guyana national left winger, was a member of the Thomas YMCA before it became Thomas United FC. He said that DeHaarte represented Guyana against Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados and his contemporaries are Chris Fernandes (GFC), Alvin ‘Geronimo’ Braithwaite and Pat Britton. Norville had the distinction of playing with DeHaarte, while

he (Norville) was a member of the St Barnabas Football Club.

Norville, who has since lost his sight, said that the GVFA’s mission is to assist those players with similar physical deficiencies and those that would have fallen on hard times; some have become destitute and homeless while others, like him, would have lost the use of their sight or other limb. Towards this end, the GVFA will be hosting their Surinamese counterparts in two matches on February 24th and 26th to raise funds in the realization of these goals.

The matches will be played at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) Ground.

Mr. Norville would also like to express condolences to the DeHaarte family on behalf of the membership.

He is also pleading with the corporate community for assistance towards the success of the tournament.

Nicholas Ali, Narayan Ramdhani reach Men Singles final The GUMDAC Open Singles Tournament continued at the Queens College Badminton Courts on Monday last and saw Nicholas Ali and Narayan Ramdhani reaching the Final in the Men Singles, while Ambika Ramraj and Priyanna Ramdhani reached the Final in The Ladies Singles department. The Finals on Friday, when the tournament continues, is expected to be thrilling in the Men’s singles between National Junior Champion Narayan Ramdhani and Senior Champion Nicholas Ali.

The results of matches played were: Men Singles Semi-Finals: Nicholas Ali defeated Darrell Carpenay: 21-9, 21-10 Narayan Ramdhani defeated Jonathan Mangra: 21=10, 21-6 Ladies Singles SemiFinals:

Ambika Ramraj defeated Arian Kayume: 21-10, 21-6 Priyanna Ramdhani defeated Nadine Jairam: 21-4, 21-7 The event concludes on Friday with the presentation of prizes to the winners, runner-ups and third place finishers.

Yolo 10/10 Cricket Challenge

Chow Pow The President of the Guyana Softball League (GSL), Halim Khan has endorsed the upcoming Yolo Entertainment 10/10 Softball Cricket Challenge.

The GSL President met with Yolo Entertainment’s Director, Kirk “Chow Pow” Jardine in the company’s office on South Road on Monday where he was presented with the draft for the hosting of the Series.

After careful scrutiny, he was satisfied that the tournament will not only provide entertainment for softball cricket fans, but provide quality competition for the

participating teams.

Teams would normally participate in regular knockout formats of the game, but the challenge series round-robin format will provide them with a chance to exhibit their talent, temperament and conditioning.

It will also offer them a chance of restructuring after a loss and allow them time to prepare for the next encounter, giving them an equal opportunity of progressing into the semifinals and eventually winning the series.

Khan guaranteed the organizers the full support of the GSL and wished them success in the tournament. All of the major softball teams in Guyana have confirmed their participation and are eager to compete.

The latest confirmations came in from Invaders, Speedboat, Young Guns and The Mahaica Raiders. With Wolfs Warriors, Regal, Trophy Stall & Digital Technology added to the lineup fireworks can be expected.

Yolo Entertainment is quite happy with the response thus far and thanked the softball President and the GSL for granting them (Yolo Entertainment) their blessings on the series.

“It is vital that we work with all stakeholders in this venture, it is the only way we can succeed,” said Yolo’s Director, Kirk Jardine.

He also added that his company is open to work with everyone that legitimately comes through its doors. Dates and venues will be broadcasted at a later date.