Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 5

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

A blueprint to keep Wales going DEAR EDITOR, We are happy to offer the following suggestions for salvaging the unsatisfactory performance of Wales Estate and making it profitable, sustaining its present workforce and creating more job opportunities in the future, etc: 1. Rescind the closure of the estate and focus sugar production to satisfy current local and international markets.

2. Embark on crop diversification on the low yielding lands.

3. Commence intercropping on current moderate to high yielding lands. The following table gives some suggestions as regards intercropping and the products that can be produced.

4. Marketing · Continue Conventional Traditional Marketing · Embark on Relationship Marketing- Focus on the following markets: a. Internal- employees b. Supplier c. Influence d. Referral e.

Recruitment – exhibitions, fairs, etc. · Build relational, functional and strategic partnerships with stakeholders, businesses, etc 5. Pursue other income generating initiatives: farm tourism, sport fishing, rental of properties, etc 6. Cut costs: providing car loans, allowances, etc for Executives, Managers, etc 7. Human Resources Management. Do the following: a. Appoint Executive Directors for key areas of operation b. Audit the use of management tools annually to determine efficiency and effectiveness- organization Continued on page 29

The difference between controlling and minimizing

DEAR EDITOR, Someone had told me about an article that appeared some time back which suggested that the traffic situation in the mornings at the western approach to the DHB was being better managed. If so, then that statement is ludicrous to say the least. The DHB Management seems to be completely focused on controlling the traffic. I think and do believe that the focus should be on minimizing the build- up.

Almost every morning I arrive at the western end of the bridge at approximately 620 am. It takes me on average, 35 minutes to cross because at that time the traffic is very heavy.

I decided to use the time spent in the traffic to find a workable solution to the chaos. What is clear is that the Police ranks are incapable of stopping the chaotic overtaking that takes place right before their eyes because I suspect that a lot of those impatient drivers are themselves Police ranks or from some other level of officialdom. This contributes significantly to the chaos. So the best solution to this chaotic situation is to minimize the congestion.

Towards this end, I

started counting the amount of vehicles that crossed from east to west while I waited and the average I got was 81 in 20 minutes. Twice during the afternoon rush hour, I stopped at the western end and in 10 minutes I counted 148 vehicles that crossed from east to west. So I came up with the following suggestions: 1. Beginning from 615 am which sees the start of the congestion, close the crossing from east to west for 20 minutes and operate the double lane for vehicles crossing from west to east.

2. After the 20 minutes period is up, re-open the eastern crossing for 10 minutes. This would allow the 81 or so vehicles sufficient time to cross.

3. Reclose the eastern crossing after the 10 minutes and restart the double lane for another 20 minutes. This activity should continue in the intervals mentioned until let’s say 830am.

Now we have the problem of safely releasing the traffic crossing from west to east into the traffic coming from the east bank. This can be achieved by: 1. Making the eastern carriageway into one lane traffic going south.

Continued on page 29

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Attorney General, Nandlall face-off over appropriations for Legal Affairs Ministry Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams faced intense scrutiny yesterday as Parliament convened in the Committee of Supply to examine the current and capital revenue and expenditure for various agencies.

During the session, Williams faced a series of questions, specifically from former Attorney General Anil Nandlall, regarding estimates made for various departments of the Legal Affairs Ministry.

The Attorney General (AG) was bombarded with questions about a figure of $16 million, which was allocated to purchase a new vehicle. Williams told the House that the sum was included in the 2015 budgetary allocations, but the Government had only acquired a reconditioned vehicle at half that amount.

This purchase, Williams said, was made before he took office.

The AG told the House that inherited estimates will be investigated by the Auditor General and the Public Accounts Committee. He noted that only half the figure was expended to purchase

Former Attorney General Anil Nandlall the reconditioned vehicle, hence efforts are being made to recover it. However Nandlall refuted the Minister’s statements. He instead called for a criminal investigation to be launched in the matter. Opposition Members of Parliament, Juan Edghill and Irfaan Ali also raised their concerns over the estimated sum. Both MPs noted that the since half the money was expended, this should be evident in the current estimate. “The entire $16.5 million should not be represented here,� Edghill stated.

Williams was also questioned about an estimate

of 1.2 billion presented as part of the budgetary allocations for the Legal Affairs Ministry.

He explained that a portion of the sum represented monies which are to be paid to the Surinamese company Rudisa Beverages, that was awarded US$6M from the Guyana Government following a ruling by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

Williams noted that Nandlall should be familiar with the case, since the current administration inherited the debt from the former Government.

The AG told the National Assembly that the figure also represents monies which will be allocated for training in the CARIBLAW and other sensitisation programmes.

As Nandlall noted areas, for which the clarity was needed on the matters of Government

Attorney General Basil Williams spending in matters of Legal Affairs, the Attorney General revealed that plans are afoot for renovation of the current Legal Affairs Ministry.

He said too that plans are in the pipeline for two plots of land to be purchased in the vicinity of Carmichael Street to expand the capacity of the

work of the Ministry. The sum of $40,750,000 has been allocated for this project. But Nandlall noted that amount appeared unrealistic. He stressed that $40 million could not possibility be expended on plots of land in the city.

The Attorney General then explained that the two plots would cost approximately $20 million each and the balance of the monies would be used to fix the roof of the Legal Affairs Ministry.

Williams disclosed that the estimate represented is far less than the $550 million which the previous Government spent to purchase the building which currently houses the Land Court Registry.

Even as he faced questions over the selected line items, the Attorney General outlined a number of projects towards

strengthening the criminal justice system, for which estimates were made for the 2016 budgetary allocation. He told the House the estimates represented the efforts towards the revision of laws; setting up of the law reform commission, procurement of equipment for advancement in the judiciary, and training of judicial officers in particular aspects of the work, such as the manner in which sentences are imposed.

The APNU+AFC Member of Parliament disclosed that the entire budgetary allocation estimate of $1.6 billion for the Legal Affairs Ministry caters for consultations on the cybercrime legislation, the possible appointment of parttime judges and other efforts to tackle the judicial backlog.

According to the AG, also (Continued on page 26)

Eccles resident wanted for cocaine trafficking Police are seeking the assistance of members of the public to locate Kennard Stephen De Jonge, who they say is wanted for questioning in relation to possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking on February 2nd 2016 at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.

De Jonge appears to have links to a quantity of cocaine that was discovered on a Dynamic Airways aircraft at the John F Kennedy International

Airport in New York earlier this month.

While the police provided no details, Kaieteur News understands that De Jonge is an airline employee who might have facilitated the placing of the narcotics on the aircraft.

Police say that De Jonge is 33 years old and his last known address is lot 59 BB Eccles Park, East Bank Demerara.

Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Kennard Stephen De Jonge is

asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 225-1111, 227-2128, 227-1149, 225-6411, 226-7065, 911 or the nearest police station.

Meanwhile, this newspaper has leant that three immigration officers and two more airline employees are being investigated for the c o c a i n e f o und on the Dynamic Airways aircraft.

According to a police source, the immigration officers are cooperating with investigators.

Wanted: Kennard Stephen De Jonge

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

WHO backs sterile mosquitoes to fight Zika The World Health Organization (WHO) has backed trials of genetically modified (GM) mosquitoes that could be used in the fight against the Zika virus.

The WHO also said sterile irradiated male mosquitoes could also be released to mate with wild females.

However, environmentalists have warned over the possible consequences of wiping out an entire species.

Zika has been linked to microcephaly in babies, who

are b o r n w i t h d a m a g e d brains and abnormally small heads.

In a statement, the WHO said it was encouraging affected countries “to boost the use of both old and new approaches to mosquito control as the most immediate line of defence”.

Initial trials using genetically modified mosquitoes developed by Oxitec, the British subsidiary of Intrexon, have been taking place in the Cayman Is-

lands and Brazil.

The mosquitoes are altered so that their offspring will die before reaching adulthood and being able to reproduce.

Another technique under consideration involves releasing male mosquitoes that have been sterilised by low doses of radiation.

It has already been used by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to control insects that damage crops.

Three American citizens who were abducted in Iraq last month have been freed and handed over to the US embassy, US and Iraqi officials say.

All three men were said to be in good health.

It is not yet clear who was behind the abduction, but officials suspect it was an Iranian-backed Shia militia.

The three men were working for a private contractor when they were abducted in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, on 15 January.

It was the first such abduction of Westerners in Iraq for several years.

“The three Americans were released in an area near Yusufiya, south of Baghdad.

Intelligence forces received them and will hand them over to the American authorities [in Baghdad],” an Iraqi interior ministry official told Reuters news agency on Tuesday.

The US Department of State said it welcomed the news that the Iraqi government had secured the Americans’ release, praising the

Iraqi security forces, ministry of defence and national intelligence services for their efforts.

The Pentagon said the US military was not involved in the operation to free the men, who were due to fly out of Iraq later on Tuesday. The identities of the three men have not been made public.

The three men were reported missing last month while visiting the home of their interpreter, who was also taken, in the southern suburb of Dora.

Iraqi troops free three kidnapped Americans

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

US Coast Guard bust Puerto Rico Haiti gets interim president vessel with US$1.2M cocaine A boat carrying 93 pounds of cocaine has been intercepted in the Caribbean Sea, off Puerto Rico, by United States Customs and Border (CBP) officials.

The illegal shipment, which has an approximate value of US$1.2 million, was on a 25-foot vessel that was spotted by the Air and Marine Operations of CBP. Two men who were on board were also taken into custody.

“We leverage our assets and work with all our partners to intercept smuggling at-

tempts such as this one,” stated Johnny Morales, Director of Air Operations at the CBP Caribbean Air and Marine Branch.

The CBP explained that a Marine Patrol Aircraft detected the vessel, approximately two nautical miles northwest of Culebra Island, traveling westbound, without navigation lights.

A law enforcement response was coordinated between CBP, US Coast Guard and Puerto Rico Police Department Marine Units.

As marine units reached

the vessel, the suspects threw several packages overboard and attempted to abscond.

However, a CBP Interceptor crew was able to stop the vessel and apprehend the two subjects.

During a search of the area, two bags were recovered with 35 bricks that tested positive for cocaine.

Earlier this month, the CBP’s Air and Marine Operations and ICE Homeland Security Investigations seized 86 pounds of cocaine, worth US$1 million, hidden inside the hull of a 26-foot boat in Fajardo.

Chained and shackled fraud accused

The man who was president of Haiti’s Senate is now president of the country – at least for the next 120 days.

Jocelerme Privert was elected yesterday to serve as interim leader until a new president is chosen in elec-

tions scheduled for April. The winner of that contest will be installed as president on May 14.

The vote by Members of Parliament that eventually put the 62-year-old senator in the post, went into two rounds, stretching from Saturday into

the early hours of Sunday.

Privert got the nod over two former Senate presidents, Dejan Belizaire and Edgar Leblanc Fils.

He was formally installed in a ceremony outside the National Palace later in the afternoon.

Regional tourism breaks all records CARIBBEAN TOURISM recorded its highest growth ever in 2015, setting new records for arrivals and visitor spend in the region.

Giving an update on the industry’s performance earlier today, Secretary General of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) Hugh Riley reported for the second

HOW MUCH OF A FLIGHT risk did they present to prison authorities? This was the question being asked by the curious around the District “A” Magistrates’ Courts yesterday

when three fraud accused from Britain were taken before a magistrate – each shackled at the ankles and a total of five pairs of handcuffs on their wrists.

Joseph Adedapo King, 30;

Michael Adinwale Akingbade, 33; and Muhktar Mohamed Abbasheikh, 19, appeared before Magistrate Douglas Frederick. The three, along with Melissa Latoya Cumberbatch, 30, of Baycroft Road, Carrington Village, St Michael, appeared on three of nine fraud charges that include almost $75,000 in merchandise.

A prison source, while acknowledging it was unusual, said he knew of no special circumstances that would have led to warders using five pair of handcuffs as well as “leg irons” on the three men.

year in a row, the pace of growth “out-performed every major tourism region in the world”.

In the media link-up across the region, Riley said the performance exceeded World Tourism Organisation projections, with 28.7 million visitors to the Caribbean contributing approximately $30

billion to Caribbean economies.

The news conference hosted at the CTO’s Warren’s St Michael Offices, attracted questions from Barbados and other territories about the effect of the Zika virus on the region’s tourism as well as the high cost of intra-regional travel. (GC)

Trinidad oil giant to send home thousands Energy giant BP Trinidad and Tobago (bpTT) will be sending home more workers.

BpTT said on Monday that it has begun a consultation process with employees who are likely to be affected

by Group wide organisational changes.

“As a result, the company anticipates that at the end of this process approximately 2.5 per cent of its national employees will be impacted and over 50 per cent of its expatriate staff in Trinidad will be repatriated,” the company said in a media release.

“The changes are part of the programme BP has in place throughout its businesses worldwide to simplify organisations and improve efficiencies to help meet the challenge of the current low oil price environment,” bpTT said.

In January, BP said that it expected 4,000 jobs across its upstream businesses worldwide would be lost as the company makes changes to remain competitive.

President Norman Christie said, “Decreasing our staff is never our first option.

These changes are part of the company’s ongoing plans to improve efficiency and manage cost as it responds to the challenges of global energy markets.”

“These difficult decisions follow in depth reviews of our 2016 and future plans,” said Christie. “We remain committed to Trinidad and Tobago and to our future development plans.

The company said it has also undertaken extensive reviews of third party costs, activity prioritisation and process simplification.

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

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WAS RAMOTAR SABOTAGED? The PPPC lost the 2015 general elections by a whisker, less than five thousand votes. No elections in Guyana have been closer.

One can only speculate what would have happened had the PPP won the elections by that margin. One can only ask why APNU+AFC asked their supporters to camp outside of

the polling stations.

Donald Ramotar’s political career ended with the 2015 elections. If he does not know that by now, then those persons close to him should tell him.

He is not the Leader of the Opposition and is not in the National Assembly. He is not likely to be his party’s presidential candidate. For all

intents and purposes, he is not likely to feature again on his party’s slate.

Donald Ramotar should use the time now available to him to determine why he lost the elections. He should ask himself whether he was sabotaged from within, and if so, whether there was a deliberate conspiracy to ensure that he did not return,

Dem boys seh...

SOME PEOPLE CUTTING SPIKE NAIL Whatever do in darkness does come to light. No matter how people try to hide dem does get ketch. Some people thief and believe that dem smart; dem get ketch. And is not only people in Guyana think so.

Dem boys remember Bernie Madoff. He was so smart that he now spending de rest of he natural life in jail.

Then dem had de one from Antigua who put money in cricket like if rain falling. He and all spending de rest of he life in jail.

Dem got de set in Guyana who do de same thing, but nobody ain’t want to put hand pun dem. Of course, when Donald lose de elections some of dem nearly get heart attack, because dem know that nuff thing woulda come out.

That is why Soulja Bai start de audit and de audit find nuff missing money, but that is only de tip of de iceberg.

As dem boys seh, money is one thing, life is a n o t h e r. W h e n J a g d e o been in power some of de people who use to hang around him believe that

dem was bigger than anything pun de land.

People use to walk and threaten other people wid gun and de police never charge dem. All of dem was big ones.

De other day de police pick up one of dem same big ones. This is de first time he ever get pick up. Dem boys seh that right away de news spread through de gang.

Fear does do plenty things; it does loosen bowels and it does also tighten

bowels. Last night dem boys hear that some of dem was cutting spike nail while some was washing de streets.

One man actually call Jagdeo to complain how names gun call.

That was when Jagdeo seh that he don’t know nutten, and he never order nobody to do bad things.

Then de man seh that one of dem in custody can’t bear pressure.

Talk half and wait fuh de squealing.

so that someone else could become his party’s presidential candidate for 2020.

He has to ask himself whether in certain areas his party underperformed at the elections, and whether there were elements who wanted it that way so that he could be retired politically and someone else take his place.

A legal decision was made just before the elections by Chief Justice Ian Chang which allows for a sitting President to serve a third term. This decision has not been overturned, at least not as yet, by a higher court.

If it was not overturned then it would have qualified Donald Ramotar to run for a third term had he won the 2015 elections. It would have been inconceivable to ask a sitting President in 2020, however narrow his margin of victory in 2015, to not stand for reelection once he was eligible for re-election.

This fact has fueled speculation within certain

circles that Donald Ramotar was the victim of an internal plot to ensure that he did not win the elections.

It is a theory worth considering, because of the fact that the PPP did not increase its share of the votes in certain areas where it was expected to do so and which was being commanded by persons not known to be loyalists of Ramotar, while in certain other areas, including in seven Regions, the PPP won and only lost one other Region by one vote.

The one factor that goes against this theory is the overall results of the elections which mirrored that of 2011.

Overall the elections gave the APNU+AFC the slimmest of victories, just as it had handed the combined opposition in 2011 the slimmest of majorities.

This is the one factor that suggests that the conspiracy theory that Donald Ramotar was undermined from within his party may not be tenable.

But his treatment after the

elections still raises the question as to whether the PPP determined that he was unelectable again or whether he was part of a grand plot to elevate someone else.

Donald Ramotar should look at the numbers and make a determination. Large numbers of persons did not vote in Berbice.

The voter turnout at some stations was below the national average. These persons may not be around – the US visa policy may have been a contributory factor – but it is for Ramotar and his team to ascertain this fact and to determine whether those persons were discouraged from coming out to vote.

Donald Ramotar has a lot of time on his hands to make that determination. The public would sure be interested in knowing the answers to that investigation.

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Open letter to President Granger DEAR MR. PRESIDENT, These are just a few brief notes on the role of Government’s future deportment within the framework of your desire to have social cohesion, and against the background of your call for a social contract among all stakeholders to move Guyana forward.

Please excuse me if I sound didactic, but in enunciating a social contract, you must know that such a pathway has very profound implications for the use of power.

Every social contract philosopher, from early times with Plato to Hobbes through to Locke, Rousseau, Kant, Rawle and right up to the present moment with Amartya Sen, adumbrated the sharing of authority as the main core of the social contract.

There isn’t a citizen in this world familiar with Guyana who would not want a social contract that would see the dissolution of national,

political and ethnic divisiveness.

But here is where I become professorial and would like to warn you that on the road to the realization of the social contract, state power has to be accountable, democratic, consultative and distributive.

Mr. President, you have now set yourself a goal from which there is no turning back – if you want a social contract, state behaviour from this date onwards has to be consultative.

My theoretical understanding of power in the Guyanese context is taken from the concept of the overdeveloped state by the Pakistani political thinker (deceased) Hamza Alavi.

From the colonial governor through to Premier Jagan to President Burnham right down to the APNU-AFC Government, Guyana (had) has an overdeveloped state which is authoritarian, concerned and obsessed

with the expansion and preservation of power, and makes no psychological acknowledgement of its inherent obligation to protect and serve the citizenry.

I could offer you countless examples where, since you came to power in May 2015, the services the state offers to the population are no different from Premier Jagan’s era right up to President Ramotar.

In the ten months you have been President this media operative, this human rights activist and this academic has seen no positive, qualitative change in the modus operandi of the police.

During the overdeveloped state of the PPP regime, people would come up to me and warn me that the police will harm me if I write critically of them.

Since you came to power, people have echoed that very sentiment to me, and as late as last week. It only goes to

show that the citizens do not believe that after May 2015, the overdeveloped state and its harmful tentacles have disappeared.

Perhaps the best example to cite to you involves you personally. I was part of a twomember delegation from the protest group, “People’s Parliament”, that wrote a letter to Speaker Raphael Trotman requesting that the police and Parliamentary officials respect the motion of Parliament to remove the steel barriers around Parliament.

I was outside Parliament with my group, “1823 Coalition for the Parade Ground Monument” picketing the continued existence of the steel cordon and spoke to you personally as you came to talk to the protestors. I was next to you when you engaged Commander Vy p h i u s o n w h y t h e barriers were still there.

After you came to power, the steel cordons have been

extended to more streets adjacent to Parliament. Not only were the barriers kept, but more were brought in and more streets were taken up.

This is what I mean by the overdeveloped state.

My point, M r.

President, is if you are working toward a social contract, then until we get there, the state has to reach out and consult the stakeholders that will sign the social contract in the future.

It will encourage stakeholders to embrace and eventually sign the social contract. I am sorry if I come across as impertinent when I say that the populace is going to frown on the idea of a social contract if they see the persistence of the overdeveloped stated.

They will do so if the state does not consult with them, accept their ideas and implement them, and share the nation’s resources with them. This is not my personal

Frederick Kissoon view but an accepted reality of political theory.

Of all the social contract theorists, Thomas Hobbes is the most misunderstood.

Hobbes’ social contract is the tightest of all the other elaborations.

The ruler is given about ninety percent of power in the contract. But many critics of Hobbes overlook the fact that Hobbes argued that the populace is entitled to remove the ruler once he breaks the social contract.

In other words, the state has to be faithful. Let’s see if the Grangerite state will consult or remain overdeveloped.

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

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Eight companies bid for $$M GPHC medical supplies contract During yesterday’s session at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), eight multi-million-dollar bids were opened for the supply of medical supplies to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Bids were also opened under the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport for the provision of consultancy services for building works.

Also under GPHC, bids were also opened for the provision of Laboratory supplies.

There was also one bid under the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) for consultancy services to validate the extension of works for the rehabilitation of the medium and low Voltage Distribution Network.

And finally, there was a lone bid, under the Ministry of Public Health, for the procurement and printing of pre-art and art registers.

Bids were also opened for the procurement of radiology supplies.

Meanwhile, under the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, bidding was opened for consultants to carry out a Sustainable Urban Transport Study (SUTS) for Georgetown. As residents are familiar with, the city of Georgetown is beset with congested roads. Already, studies are being carried out for the best possible location to put a new Demerara Harbour Bridge, as well as the design specifications.

In addition, a major project to link the East Coast of Demerara to the East Bank of Demerara is in the offing. India has committed to funding the project with a US$50M line of credit.

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Govt. boasts of strengthened foreign relationships at all levels

By Abena Rockcliffe Government has been able to maintain and, in some cases, even strengthen bilateral relationships at both the regional and international level. This achievement was highlighted by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge during his speech at the Budget debate.

Greenidge told the House of the strides made in strengthening relations. He noted that Ecuador has also signaled an interest in establishing an Embassy in Georgetown.

Greenidge reported that Guyana’s relations with Caribbean jurisdictions remain strong.

He said that it is the view of the Government of Guyana that strong bilateral relations are at the heart of regional integration and have the proven ability to redound to the benefit of the people of the concerned countries.

As a result, Greenidge’s Ministry has sought to strengthen existing relations between Guyana and its many bilateral partners, including those in the Caribbean region.

He informed the House, too, that Cuba remains “an important partner and friend to Guyana”.

Speaking about relations with Latin American countries,

Greenidge said that particular emphasis was placed over the past eight months on intensifying political exchanges, with greater emphasis on advancing Guyana’s interests. The interests advanced, related to the preservation of Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity; expanding mutually beneficial partnerships and promoting peace and stability.

Greenidge said that highlevel exchanges were held with the Presidents of Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Ecuador, and with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Mexico and Panama.

The politician boasted that Guyana’s relations with Chile moved on an upward trajectory with the establishment of the Embassy of Chile in Georgetown. He said that Chile continues to provide support to Guyana’s capacity building.

The House was also informed that bilateral cooperation with Argentina is expected to be much improved this year.

Greenidge said too that Guyana’s relationship with Brazil remains excellent. He was optimistic that this affiliation will continue to flourish as the two countries pursue some key initiatives

which will have positive economic benefits for Guyana.

The Minister told the House that a visit to Guyana by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brazil next month “will provide the opportunity for us to jointly develop ways of enhancing relations based on the discussions sustained by the two Presidents in July last”.

He added that Guyana has begun the process of reengaging the Colombians in collaborating in areas of trade and technical cooperation under the Guyana/Colombia Joint Commission.

According to Greenidge, since assuming office, the government has overseen a marked improvement in relations with the USA. He said that for the first time in history, the USA, through its Mission in Georgetown, publicly stated its support for Guyana’s position on the controversy with Venezuela, and talks have intensified also in this area.

The Minister said that cooperation between the two countries was also maintained at a high level, especially in capacity building in the area of security, through the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative.

Greenidge said that

Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge relations with Mexico have advanced considerably, not only at the bilateral level, but in the framework of the CARICOM/Mexico Cooperation Programme, especially in the areas of Food Security, Climate Change, Regional Security and Diaspora Management.

He said that Canada remains one of the largest investors in Guyana’s mineral and gold industry.

“While most of the technical cooperation programme is pursued within the framework of the Canada/ CARICOM Regional Cooperation Programme, there are opportunities for more active bilateral

cooperation. We are in the process of pursuing, in the course of 2016, more in-depth investment and regulatory framework for cooperating,” Greenidge said.

Greenidge told the House that his Ministry aims to strengthen the relationship with China and India, two of Guyana’s longstanding development partners. He said that Guyana and China have had a very solid economic and social cooperation programme over the years.

“At the end of 2013 for example, China had over US$180 million in Guyana in investments. China has also allocated US$3B in concessionary financing for eight Caribbean nations. It has pledged US$250 billion in investments for the countries of the Community of Latin America and the Caribbean (CELAC) from which Guyana stands to benefit.

Guyana/China relations will also be guided by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and common positions at the multilateral level with a view to promoting the Small States agenda,” said Greenidge.

He also noted that relations between Guyana and India are “dynamic.”

The Minister said that a Memorandum of

Understanding will soon be concluded for the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Information Technology in Guyana, and this will create capacity to help Guyana in its move to modernize and democratize governance structures in particular. India has also pledged to assist Guyana to realize the road linkage between the East Coast of Demerara and the East Bank of Demerara.

Greenidge said that President David Granger and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have had a series of bilateral with African Heads of State, including those of Kenya, Equatorial Guinea and Nigeria.

He said that the new administration has also received emissaries from Georgia, Japan, France, Singapore and the Netherlands. An agreement for visa-free travel for holders of diplomatic, official and service passports with Georgia was concluded.

Also, an agreement for visafree travel for all categories of passports was also concluded with Russia to coincide with the commemoration, last December, of the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

FORMER MAGISTRATE ARRESTED AT LINDEN …for attempting to pervert course of justice

Attorney at Law and former Magistrate, Gordon Gilhuys Attorney at Law and former Magistrate, Gordon Gilhuys, was arrested yesterday morning at the

Linden Magistrate’s Court for attempting to pervert the course of Justice.

According to CID Inspector Singh, Gilhuys is representing Michael Franklyn who is facing a charge of rape of a minor.

The allegation is that Gilhuys went to Woman Corporal Quimby and told her that he had spoken to the Virtual Complainant’s relatives and that they were prepared to drop the case.

The allegation continued that the Corporal was told by Gilhuys that she must write

the statement and place it in the file.

Singh said he was informed and he sent ranks to arrest the lawyer who reportedly said, “I am not going anywhere. If he wants me, let him come for me.”

Singh went to the court at Wismar where the Attorney was, and arrested him and took him to the Mackenzie Police Station, where Gilhuys denied the allegation.

Gilhuys was placed on $10,000 station bail. The file will be sent to the DPP for advice.

Police draw guns on motorist during traffic stop City businessman Anthony Sarjoo is questioning the level of police professionalism following a run in he had with ranks on an armed mobile patrol and the response he received from a senior officer to his complaint.

Sarjoo is claiming that he had guns pointed at him after being stopped for what he described as a minor traffic infringement and was subsequently mistreated and threatened by a police officer to whom he was referred by Divisional Commander Marlon Chapman.

The incidents took place on Monday last on the East Coast of Demerara and the businessman is contemplating lodging an official complaint to the Commissioner of Police through the Office of Professional Responsibility.

Sarjoo told this newspaper that he was heading to the city with his wife and four-year-old daughter in his car when on approaching the junction at the University of Guyana Access Road and the Main East Coast Highway, the traffic light showed amber.

He said that he drove through the amber light and was proceeding on his way when he saw a police patrol vehicle, which had turned out from the UG Access Road, following him.

The vehicle pulled up alongside his car and after a siren was put on, one of the ranks ordered him to pull over, which he did.

Sarjoo said that he then noticed one of the ranks running towards his vehicle with gun in hand.

The rank accused him of “jumping” the traffic light and ordered him to turn back and

“…they scared the hell out of my wife and four-year-old daughter with their approach.” drive to the Sparendaam Police Station.

“I asked him if that is the way the police approach someone who commits a traffic offence. Then I told him that I have problem with my ankle and I handed him my driver’s licence and told him that he could send me a summons,” Sarjoo told this newspaper.

He said that the police rank insisted that he proceed to the station at Sparendaam, but the businessman was reluctant to comply.

Eventually the rank was joined by one of his colleagues who took Sarjoo’s name, but not before telling him “we gon deal with you.”

Sarjoo said that the police drove off and he too went his way. He said that he took photos of the ranks since they did not display any name tag, and he had no other way of identifying them by name.

Sarjoo told this newspaper that angered by the approach of the ranks, he contacted Traffic Chief Dion Moore to complain.

“He said that he don’t have Traffic Officers approaching people like that, with guns, and he advised me to speak to the Commander on the East Coast, Assistant Commissioner Chapman,” Sarjoo stated.

He said that he was treated professionally by the Commander, who subsequently referred him to a deputy Superintendent of Police for an investigation to be done.

It was here that Sarjoo

got another surprise.

He claimed that instead of taking a statement from him, the officer proceeded to contact the ranks via telephone for an explanation.

“He said that from what he heard the officer saying, he gathered that the rank was giving his version of what transpired.

“I heard him telling the rank over the phone, ‘oh, he fly pass you with speed? I see!’ ‘so you couldn’t leave the weapon because you had a prisoner’,” Sarjoo related.

Sarjoo said that after coming off the phone the officer turned to him and began addressing him in an unprofessional manner.

“Because I objected to the manner in which he was dealing with the matter, he started to threaten to arrest me. Instead of taking a statement from me based on my complaint, he was trying the matter on the telephone,” Sarjoo told this newspaper.

“I am not opposed to them giving me a ticket or charging me for court, but the police scared the hell out of my wife and four-year-old daughter with their approach, guns and all,” the businessman stated.

The Police Force has a policy where anti-crime ranks on patrol duty are prohibited from making traffic stops.

“Imagine they claim they had a prisoner in their vehicle and yet they going after a man who in my view committed traffic offence that only requires a ticket,” Sarjoo stated.

Page 13

Page 14

Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

PPP wants Trotman to apologize for ‘forest giveaway’ revelations The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) is not only labeling the country’s Minister of Natural Resources a liar, but is insisting that he must apologize for the making the statements he made as it relates to the PPP/C government’s disposal of all of Guyana’s productive forest.

This call is being made despite the damning revelations that followed Minister Raphael Trotman’s pronouncement.

In a statement issued yesterday, the PPP said that Minister Trotman and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo both lied about the PPP/C government’s 100% giveaway of Guyana’s productive forest and “they must apologize to the people of Guyana.”

During his Budget speech, Minister Trotman had told the National Assembly, “We were met with an alarming situation where we discovered that 100% or all of our productive forest was allocated by the past Government.” Trotman said that there “is nothing left.”

The following day, Prime Minister Nagamootoo took evidence to the House that supported what was initially said by Trotman. Further, the media had released

Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman information explaining in detail what the PPP did with Guyana’s forest to the extent where it gave out forest lands that were not to be given out.

But the PPP holds out that it is all a lie. The party claims that the “lie” undermines the Guyana-Norway partnership and Guyana’s international reputation.

The Party says that in the absence of an apology and a full retraction, it will be seeking an independent investigation into the claims made by Minister Trotman.

The Party said, “Pending the outcomes of this investigation, the PPP will have no choice but to support Norway in suspending the

Guyana-Norway partnership in order to preserve its integrity in the long-term interests of Guyanese citizens”.

The PPP claimed that it has written to the Government of the Kingdom of Norway expressing its concern at the APNU+AFC Government’s “attacks on the integrity of the GuyanaNorway partnership on climate change and forests…In our letter to the Government of Norway, the PPP expressed our concerns that the Norwegian Government’s pause on disbursing money to Guyana – which started just after the APNU+AFC Government took office, despite the fact that a payment of US$40 million remains pending – has not been lifted. Neither has a new agreement been reached, despite the fact that the last payment under the partnership was to be paid for performance up to the end of 2014.”

PPP thinks that the new government is seeking to tarnish its “excellent track record and stewardship on forest conservation, sustainable forest management and climate change.”

According to the Party, the statements also

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo deliberately question the integrity of the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and the GuyanaNorway partnership for which forest conservation is a key pillar and the Amaila Falls Hydropower project is a flagship project.

The PPP wants Minister Trotman to state whether he consulted with any professional staff within his Ministry before making the announcement.

“We are confident that Minister Trotman did not consult with any professionals or anybody else who could advise him on the facts concerning the allocation of Guyana’s

forests. Instead, he chose to degrade the National Assembly, of which he was once Speaker, by making wild assertions to dishonestly gain political advantage.”

The PPP added, “Had Minister Trotman consulted with his Ministry’s professional staff, he would know that the facts are straight-forward. As shown in publicly available and internationally verified reports, Guyana’s forests cover an area of 18,483,000 hectares. The breakdown of this area is summarized on Page 5 of the latest Monitoring, Report and Verification (MRV) report which was independently verified by an agency engaged by the Norwegian Government.”

The PPP said that about seven million hectares have been allocated for concessions, less than 38% of Guyana’s forest or about 55% of the State Forest Estate.

“Of the seven million hectares, about five million hectares are allocated through large concessions.

Of the five million hectares, about 2.8 million hectares of large concessions were allocated by PPP/C Governments between 1992 and 2015, and about half of

the large concessions were issued by the PNC Government before 1992, including the current largest concession for Barama at 1.7 million hectares.”

According to the party, the PPP/C Government allocated approximately 15% of Guyana’s forest to large concessions and close to half the State Forest Estate remains unallocated.

Furthermore, the PPP said that forest management standards within the allocated concessions are among the highest in the world. While deforestation and degradation, as well as governance standards, have been independently verified and assessed since the commencement of the Guyana-Norway partnership on forests in 2009. The most recent Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) report dated October 2015 shows that Guyana’s forest cover has a deforestation rate of 0.062%, one of the lowest rates in the world.

The Party said, “Minister Trotman should stop lying about Guyana’s forest management standards. As Minister, he should be sticking up for Guyana internationally and pointing out where Guyana’s Continued on page 26

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 15

Police assist in establishing Parfait Prosecution closes case as defence Harmonie Primary School library Angoy’s Ave. land dispute murder trial…

pushes no case submission

Charles Bristol

Errol Lindo

The prosecution yesterday closed its case after calling its final witness when the Angoy’s Avenue land dispute murder trial continued yesterday before Justice Franklyn Holder and a mixed jury in the Berbice High Court.

On trial for murder is former national volleyball player and popular New Amsterdam businessman, Charles Bristol also known as Charles Henry.

Bristol, 53, a remigrant , of Main Street and Lad Lane, New Amsterdam, and owner of the Bristol Mall, is accused of fatally shooting 51-year-old Errol Lindo, on Wednesday, April 16, 2014, at High Dam, Caracas, East Canje, Berbice.

The final witness on the stand was detective Corporal Dharmendra Inderpaul. The policeman in his evidence stated that after conducting

investigations, he charged Bristol with the capital offence of murder.

He said that he did not observe any injuries on Bristol’s body; Bristol never complained that he was injured by Lindo; he (Bristol) never pointed out any axe to him, nor did he (Inderpaul) see any axe.

Under cross examination by attorney at law Kim Kyte, the policeman stated that Bristol offered him his car keys, but he did not take it.

The car he said was destroyed by fire. There was a large crowd which was very hostile and the police had to shoot in the air to quell what was happening.

Inderpaul stated that he was not aware that the car was looted before it was burnt.

He was also not aware if Bristol’s workers were beaten.

The witness said that he

could not remember the names Martin O’Brian or Charles Adonis, and could not recall if statements were taken from Leslie Hughes, O’Brian and Adonis. He told the court that the possibility existed that their statements were in the police file. He also testified that he did not look for the axe, and that no axe was handed over to him.

When the prosecution closed its case the defence put forward a lengthy no case submission which was led by Attorney Nigel Hughes.

Prosecutor Natasha Backer subsequently responded to the defence’s no case submission.

Bristol is being represented by Attorneys-atLaw Nigel Hughes and Kim Kyte, in association with Tanya Warren Clements and Shabana Barnwell.

There have been testimonies so far from Police ballistics expert, Corporal Floyd Hosannah, Travis Crandon, Rookmin Dindyal, Indranie Nandalall called “Meena” (at whose place Bristol sought refuge), Agnes Joseph, Cassandra Arthur, Police Sergeant Curtis Cort and Corporals Brian Caesar, Phillip Walters and Dharmendra Inderpaul .

The cause of death was given as shock and hemorrhage due to gunshot injuries.

The matter is expected to continue tomorrow when the judge is expected to make a ruling on the defence’s no case submission.

C’TYNE FATAL ACCIDENT DRIVER REMANDED

The driver who was allegedly behind the wheel of the mini bus that crashed last Friday resulting in the death of a school boy has been remanded to jail.

Leon Pharahoo, 24, of No 69 village, Corentyne appeared yesterday before Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh at the Springlands Magistrate’s Court on two charges.

He is accused of driving in a manner dangerous to the public on the Bengal, Corentyne public road thus causing the death of Mavin Budhoo, 16, a student of Skeldon High School and of Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, Berbice.

He is also charged with having failed to render assistance to an injured person. Bail was refused and the accused was remanded.

Prosecutor Inspector Godfrey Playter in objecting to bail cited the nature, gravity and prevalence of the offence. Persons are still hospitalised, was another reason given by the prosecutor. He also noted that the accused had fled the accident scene and that in all likelihood the accused would flee the jurisdiction, not returning for his trial.

The accident involved minibus BPP 2259 - which was packed with school children and some other teenagers - motor car PSS 5063, and a motor lorry GPP 8452, which was parked at the side of the road. The accident occurred on February 12 about 18:30 hrs on Bengal

Public Road, Corentyne, Berbice.

According to information, Budhoo and others were returning home after travelling to the Albion Community Centre to witness the Corentyne segment of the Children’s Mashramani competition, when the minibus, which was being driven by Phararoo at a fast rate of speed, attempted to overtake the aforementioned motor car and in the process clipped the right front of the vehicle. The impact forced the motor car off the road and into the right front (cab) of the truck which was parked on the eastern side of the road.

Phararoo lost control of the minibus which toppled several times. It slammed into a fence and then crashed into a post, ending up on its right side.

Budhoo and several others were taken out of the vehicle by public spirited citizens and rushed to the Port Mourant Hospital. Budhoo was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital. The driver had fled the scene after the accident.

Injured were Ruth Ramotar, Subrina James, Natasha Ramballi, Britney Toney, Benita Arjune, Chandranie Ramwattie, Takaram Dhanraj, Marcia David and Malisha Ragnauth, all of Corentyne, Berbice.

Phararoo is expected to return to court next Wednesday, February 24, at the No. 51 court, when the matter is expected to be called again.

Commander Stephen Mansell (left) makes a point to Headmistress Shondell Chichester (right) in the presence of other ranks and school staff during the handing over.

Commander of the Police’s West Demerara Division is continuing to reach out the hand of friendship and cooperation to members and organizations in the communities that are served by his ranks.

Yesterday commander Stephen Mansell handed over a television set, 200 tiles, steel rods and a quantity of books to the headmistress of the Parfait Harmonie Primary School, Shondell Chichester.

The donation is intended to allow the school to establish a library for students.

Upon completion of the project a computer and printer will be presented to the school to assist in the administration of the library.

The school’s headmistress expressed her gratitude to the Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud and Commander Mansell, who has also pledged to provide the labour for the laying of the tiles.

Page 16

Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Opposition objects to Ministry of Presidency funding SOCU During the process of examining and considering the budget estimates in the National Assembly on Monday, the opposition party voiced its concerns after it recognised that the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) had been placed under the Ministry of the Presidency for funding purposes.

When questioned by People’s Progressive Party (PPP) parliamentarians, it was admitted by Minister of State, Joseph Harmon that some $40M was budgeted for the agency, but that the situation was a temporary one.

PPP Chief Whip Gail Teixeira blasted this situation.

She stated that given its terms of reference, SOCU had no business being listed under the Ministry of the Presidency’s Defence and National Security programme.

Texieira demanded an explanation, saying that it contradicted the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Bill 2015. Teixeira queried whether this would be rectified.

The opposition also demanded a breakdown of SOCU’s expenses, salaries and employees, but Harmon

- claims it goes against AML/CFT Bill 2015 declined to provide this, based on security reasons.

He did concede that he would consult with others on how much information he could provide.

In addition, other line items under the Ministry of the Presidency’s Policy Development and Administration programme that dealt with aspects such as contracted employees and rental of buildings were questioned.

CLIMATE CHANGE CONSULTATIONS After inquiries were made about a sum that was budgeted for 2016 under line item ‘other expenses,’ ‘other’, Harmon revealed that this sum was budgeted for Climate Change consultations with embattled climate scientist Dr. Rajendra K. Pachauri. PPP MP Irfaan Ali demanded that more details be provided on the increase for the Climate Change consultations, “These consultations are something that were (assented) to by the previous administration, so we will continue with it,” Harmon said. “The head of that institute, Dr. Rajendra Pachauri, wrote his Excellency the President on 29 July, 2015, indicating a willingness to continue to work with the Government.”

“And notwithstanding that, we have basically said

PPP MP, Irfaan Ali

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon

we would engage this sum of money that was actually budgeted for in the previous administration, and this is basically for the consultation to be done.”

As Ali expressed his dissatisfaction with Harmon’s answer, Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman, rose to the defence of his colleague. Trotman accused Ali of attributing improper motives to Harmon, and called on Ali to formulate his questions better.

Dr. Pachauri is under a cloud, after reports that Indian police are expected to institute charges against him.

Pachauri is the current Chairman of the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation’s Board of Trustees.

In February 2012, former President Bharrat Jagdeo received an honorary Doctorate of Philosophy from Dr. Pachauri, who acted in his capacity as Chancellor of TERI University.

CARICOM concerned as US, Europe...

(From page 3) matter. “This situation threatens the financial and economic stability of our region.

It is having an impact on the ability of our people to receive their remittances and transfer their funds for trade and in-

vestment transactions.

This state of affairs demands that we act collectively to address this issue with the relevant regulatory authorities and the international community,” the Secretary-General said.

The issue is critical, as top countries in the world are using anti-money laundering laws designed to stamp out terrorism, and have mandated local banks, including in Guyana, to put measures in place to ensure monies come from clean sources.

It was only last year that Guyana managed to pass its anti-money laundering laws.

The Caribbean Financ i a l A c t i o n Ta s k F orce (CFATF) has warned its member countries to be careful of Guyana’s risky financial institutions.

The passage of new laws and number of other measures would have placed Guyana in a less risky position.

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 25

Tourism sector taking quantum leap...

(From page 17) Ministry, Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) Secretariat and the Bureau of Statistics have also been granted user access to available data and trends.

Hughes said that a travel and tourism intelligence centre is an important resource for travel and tourism market data, containing comprehensive consumer surveys and evaluations, alongside industry information on key companies, markets, manufacturers and financial deals.

CUSTOMER SEGMENTATION The Tourism Minister noted that this is also a new initiative and emphasized that it is fundamental to her Ministry’s global marketing and sales success.

Hughes said, “These rich consumer insights will enable us to clearly define our bestprospect travelers, as well as the relevant communication channels, messages and experiences that motivate them to travel. It will also help to develop marketing strategies and tactics that more effectively connect the consumer with Guyana’s tourism brand in meaningful ways, leading to increased customer acquisition and retention.”

DIGITALMARKETING The Tourism Minister said that her Ministry has engaged Trip Advisor—a global mar-

keting communication platform—in an effort to conduct targeted marketing to key generating and emerging geographic markets. These she said include; USA, Canada, UK, Germany, Holland and South America.

Hughes said that it is one of the assets that is used in the tourism market to create and enhance favourable perceptions of Guyana by delivering value propositions and unique selling points to targeted customer segments.

She said that there are several expected outcomes of the Global Marketing Communications platform. These include; improved brand relevance among target travelers in primary, secondary and emerging markets, making Guyana a more compelling destination; and improved campaign impact and influence, moving the traveller further down the path to purchase.

The politician stated, too, that for 2016, her Ministry is slated to recruit two overseas representation companies in the US and UK/European markets to assist with key trade and consumer shows, organize trade and media trips, conduct trade and sales outreach, business to business meetings, social media marketing and generate features and stories of Guyana in various publications.

MOU SIGNED WITH BARBADOS

Hughes revealed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between Guyana and the Barbados Joint Commission (Travel and Tourism).

She said that this will allow for improved interagency relations with regards to information sharing, strengthened bilateral relations, creation of opportunities for multi-destination packaging, capacity build i n g (public/private sector), formulation of mutually beneficial links among operators in both countries, and joint marketing efforts, among other things.

The Parliamentarian said that several hotels and the Carnegie School of Home Economics benefitted from hotel and hospitality training at the reputable Crane Hotel in Barbados last year.

She said that another batch of hotel employees will be trained in Barbados at the beginning of the Q2 programme.

Hughes expressed that a delegation from Barbados will be in Guyana in March to network with tourism stakeholders and to experience and observe Community Based Tourism as practiced in Guyana.

“A reciprocal visit of Guyanese tourism stakeholders (Peer/Attraction Evaluation Exercise) to observe world-class attractions in Barbados is planned for Q2. This will help to boost our product attractiveness, competitiveness and marketability,” she said.

The politician asserted that at the end of the day, “this multi-destination marketing approach will bring tourists from the UK, where Barbados’ airlift has a huge advantage to enjoy the tranquility of Barbados, and then the adventure and magnificence that is Guyana”.

FILMS/ DOCUMENTARIES Hughes said that her Ministry has intensified its drive to raise Guyana’s profile as a Film and Documentary Destination, and has succeeded in enhancing destination awareness through the facilitation of numerous projects with international film crews.

She noted that several film

projects are in the pipeline.

The Tourism Minister said, “The cornerstone of Tourism is our Hinterland Tourism Development Plan which recognizes that in nearly all of our 10 regions we are blessed with great tourism product, and it is up to us to encourage communities and Guyanese to get into incomegenerating projects in the tourism sector.”

Hughes said that with this thrust, efforts will be directed to developing local entrepreneurial opportunities through a viable initiative that will be replicated in many parts of the hinterland communities.

“Even though the country’s most popular tourism destination, the majestic Kaieteur Falls, is located in region eight, the sad reality is that none of the other 17 communities in that region were exposed to much less benefitting from tourism, despite some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country being located in their backyards,” Hughes asserted.

The Minister said that the Region Eight Development Initiative was conceptualized to make a start to effect change in this regard. She said that an inventory of the communities was done and those with the most tourism potential and basic infrastructure to make a start were identified as Kato, Monkey Mountain and Paramakatoi.

She said that the Government has a strong commitment to seeing tourism expand in the hinterland.

It is for this very reason, Hughes emphasized, that over $4 billion has been allocated this year in support of the Plan of Action for Hinterland Development.

The Minister said that in excess of $280 million has been allocated to promote economic prosperity, tourism development and preserving cultural identity. This sum is inclusive of grants for 211 Indigenous communities that will build village economies and fund eco-tourism projects.

Page 26

Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Venezuelan hypocrisy at the UN Security Council

By Joseph A. Klein (Canada Free Press) The United Nations Security Council held an open debate Monday on the topic of “Respect for the Principles and Purposes of the Charter as a Key Element for the Maintenance of International Peace and Security.”

Venezuela holds the presidency of the Security Council this month.

Venezuela’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Delcy Rodríguez, sitting in the Security Council president’s chair, delivered remarks in her national capacity that channeled the spirit of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez. Her selfrighteous appeal for adherence to the UN Charter was an exercise in hypocrisy.

Ms. Rodriguez denounced interference in the sovereign affairs of any member state as inconsistent with the principles of the UN Charter. “Sovereign equality,” she said, must be maintained as an important principle under the UN Charter.

Sounding just like the dedicated Marxist that she probably is, Venezuela’s minister of foreign affairs declared that conflicts today are not only of a military nature. “They also include economic killing,

psychological war, social tensions, and financial and economic strangulation, which results in instability in the countries.”

Without naming any countries explicitly, Ms. Rodriguez condemned the capitalist “neo-colonial powers” who seize natural resources and use “unilateral coercive measures” to extend the “hegemony” of their “capitalistic system.” Oppose the “factional powers who make their own rules,” Ms. Rodriguez proclaimed, and “preserve the rule of law.”

Not surprisingly, Venezuelan Minister of Foreign Affairs Rodriguez omitted to mention Venezuela’s own aggressive acts against a neighboring state.

Venezuela has threatened Guyana’s territorial sovereignty, including by unilaterally expanding its claimed “integral maritime zone” into waters belonging to Guyana. Venezuela seeks to control oil resources recently discovered by Exxon off of Guyana’s coast, interfering with Guyana’s territorial sovereignty over waters near the Essequibo, an area that had been awarded to Guyana by an international tribunal way back in 1899.

Venezuela in recent years has sought a reversal of that

Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister and Vice President Carl Greenidge decision and has claimed portions of Guyana as its own. The matter has now taken on new urgency since oil was discovered in Guyana’s territorial waters.

Venezuela is evidently prepared to use its military to interfere with Guyana’s ability to develop its newly discovered offshore natural resources. Venezuela is not bluffing. Back in 2013, for example, Venezuela’s navy intercepted an oil exploration vessel operating in an offshore concession that Guyana had granted to a Texas oil company.

“Venezuela’s behavior towards Guyana is a festering wound to peace and to the stability of the region—it is an affront to the rule of law,”

Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister and Vice President Carl Greenidge said in response to a provocative speech earlier this month by none other than Venezuelan Minister of Foreign Affairs Rodriguez.

Ms. Rodriguez has blamed the “imperialist powers of an American transnational” for instigating its maritime dispute with Guyana, uttering more Marxist rhetoric to rationalize Venezuela’s blatant acts of aggression against another sovereign state. If Venezuela were truly interested in upholding the UN Charter principle of sovereign equality and territorial integrity under the rule of international law, it should have had no problem accepting Guyana’s longstanding suggestion that the matter be brought to the International Court of Justice to decide.

But Venezuela is not interested in the rule of international law if it would interfere with its grab of natural resources belonging to another country. Instead, Venezuela is hiding behind a UN mediation process that has gone nowhere for years.

Venezuela is violating the territorial integrity of another sovereign nation— Guyana—in order to control

Attorney General, Nandlall face-off over...

(From page 6) included in the 2016 budgetary allocation are provisions for the implementation of verbatim voice recording systems and other upgrades within the courts. This is set to ease the judicial work load and speed

up the trial.

Nandlall questioned whether provisions are made to train the staff to manage the technological advantages, since that the system is already in place.

Williams did not address Nandlall’s statement but

noted that there are some challenges with deploying the technology to speed up the cases.

The Legal Affairs Minister noted that a proposal was made to rent a building for this purpose.

Williams then outlined a number of other plans for the strengthening of the criminal services, a Canadian-funded project. Under this project the Government was granted $110 million grant; some $75 million of that grant is expected to be expended in 2016.

The sum represents monies allocated to train investigators in the criminal

justice system on the matters of Crime Scene Investigations, particularly aspects of video analysis.

The AG said that a large section of workers in the justice system will be trained in this regard. These include Judges, Magistrates, Police Prosecutors and State Prosecutors attached to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Williams however explained that some of the projects are not likely to come on stream until later in the year, since they are being funded by the InterAmerican Development Bank.

its oil resources In addition to trying to control natural resources in an area declared to be part of Guyana over 100 years ago, Venezuela has sought to extend its influence by force to another neighboring country. It has provided money, arms and logistical support to Marxist terrorists operating inside Colombia.

Last September, in the midst of Venezuela’s mass deportation of Colombian migrants from Venezuela back to Colombia during which Venezuelan soldiers were reported to have sexually abused Colombian women and children, two Venezuelan military aircraft entered into Colombian airspace, according to Colombia’s Ministry of Defense.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Rodriguez denied that the alleged incursion into Colombia’s airspace ever happened, but she neither confirmed nor denied the allegations of sexual abuse by Venezuelan soldiers against Colombian women and children.

Despite her high-minded talk about the “rule of law” in front of the Security Council, Ms. Rodriguez may find her own country being charged with a violation of international law. Colombia’s president said that his attorney general “is seriously considering presenting a complaint to the ICC against members of Venezuela’s civilian and military leadership, who may be responsible for crimes against humanity under the Rome Statute.”

VENEZUELA’S DISREGARD FOR INTERNATIONALLAW Another example of Venezuela’s disregard for

international law involves its brush-off of the international arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court against Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir in 2009. The Venezuelan regime, a member of the International Criminal Court, has sought closer relations with al-Bashir.

Alluding to the dictator wanted for heinous international humanitarian and human rights crimes against his own people, Venezuela’s ambassador to Sudan said in March 2015 that “all of us know that President Beshir (sic) has exerted tremendous efforts in the service of his people and his country.”

Venezuela is an economic basket case. While inflation rages, Venezuelans have to line up for hours to buy basic foods. Its oil revenues have plummeted as a result of sharply falling oil prices. Its currency has been rapidly losing value.

Venezuela’s economic failures are largely of its own making. It insisted on following a Marxist model that has proven over and over again to be unworkable.

Rather than adapt and try to embrace a more open market economy that has helped spur growth elsewhere in Latin America, the Venezuelan regime blames the external phantom enemies of “capitalism” and “neocolonialism.” In desperation, Venezuela is doing the very thing that its minister of foreign affairs so strongly condemned in her remarks to the UN Security Council.

Venezuela is violating the territorial integrity of another sovereign nation—Guyana— in order to control its oil resources.

Ministry of the Presidency...

(From page 21) Foreign Affairs.” Another area of contention was the Presidential Guard. While Edghill was adamant that there was an increase in the amount of personnel, Harmon stated that there was actually no increase for the year.

However, Edghill also asked whether the Presidential Guards were responsible for the security of the Prime Minister.

Harmon confirmed this.

Questions were also put to the Minister about the $20M increase under the line item dealing with the rental of buildings. According to Harmon, this was for the much touted Public Service Staff College, for which $20M was budgeted.

PPP wants Trotman to...

From page 14 standards and performance are world-class. He should also be focusing on the remaining challenges for the sector, and representing its stakeholders in advancing their needs, not destroying progress already made.

The PPP continues to believe that the Guyana-Norway partnership is good for Guyana and for the world and therefore, the Government must show it is serious about adhering to the standards the agreement requires.

That is the only way that Norway can lift its pause on the disbursement of money and once again have a partner with whom it can do business. That will not happen if Ministers continue to lie about key elements of the agreement.” (Abena Rockcliffe)

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 27

Truck driver not guilty of causing Constable’s death The truck driver, who had been accused of crushing Police Constable Edison Williams to death while he was placing barricade along the Providence Access Road in preparation for an entertainment event last year, was yesterday freed on a charge of causing death by dangerous driving.

David Persaud, of 94- 97 First Hill Linden, Soesdyke Highway was accused of driving motor lorry GLL 8197 in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Williams on July 6, 2015.

According to reports, the officer was placing barricades on the road at the time in preparation for traffic control at the new Hits and Jams Water World, for the Sand, Water and Sun (SWS) soca on the beach event when the incident occurred.

It was alleged that around

DEAD: Police Constable Edison Williams 09:45h he was struck down and ran over by the vehicle driven by Persaud.

Constable Williams was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

At the time of his demise, Williams, who hails from Berbice, was attached to the

Brickdam Police Station Enquires Office.

When the matter came up yesterday in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan informed the court that Persaud was found not guilty as charged for the offence.

During the summing up of evidence, the Magistrate told the court that there was no evidence that suggested that Persaud was driving in a dangerous manner when the accident occurred.

According to the Magistrate, this was found after the revision of evidence led by both the defence and prosecution.

Magistrate McLennan told the court that the prosecution led by Police Inspector, Neville Jeffers, had failed to prove that the truck driver drove negligently, although its witnesses were

Captured fugitive remanded for murder of wanted man Four days after wanted man Trevor Anthony Amsterdam was captured for the alleged murder of now dead fugitive Jermaine ‘Lapsy’ Simon, he was placed before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and remanded to prison for the capital offence.

It is alleged that the killing occurred on November 10, 2015, at Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara.

Amsterdam, 32, of Lot 34 Norton Street, Bagotstown, was remanded to prison until March 14, when he will make another appearance in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Police Corporal Deniro Jones presented the prosecution’s case. He told the court that the police file is still incomplete, and did not relate any facts about what transpired on the day in question.

According to reports, Simon was shot to the forehead by a man believed to be Amsterdam. He subsequently died while

MURDERED: Jermaine Simon

Trevor Anthony Amsterdam

receiving treatment at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

It was reported that the accused and Simon had a feud over a woman, and other gang-related issues. Two days after Amsterdam allegedly killed Simon, his home went up in flames.

Police had issued a wanted bulletin for Simon in connection with the murder of 19-year-old Ryan Sooklall.

Sooklall a/k ‘Plyboard’ was

gunned down in a Providence, East Bank Demerara shop on March 1, 2015, by members of his own gang. He was shot in the back and was pronounced dead at the East Bank Demerara Regional Hospital.

It was reported that Simon and Sooklall had a falling out that saw Sooklall shooting up his home. The following day, Simon visited Sooklall’s home and killed him.

FREED: David Persaud credible. These witnesses, who were in proximity to the accident, all testified that Persaud was not driving at a fast rate. However, the Magistrate attested that the court had no doubt that the truck drove over the Police

Constable and caused his death.

DEFENCE Attorney Glenn Hanoman represented Persaud throughout the trial.

Hanoman had contended that it was a ‘freak accident’ at the close of the defence’s case.

He had argued that the prosecution had failed to prove that Persaud was driving dangerously at the time of the accident.

However, the lawyer did concede that the prosecution had proven beyond a reasonable doubt that Williams died as a result of the accident.

The attorney had told the court, “The only sensible explanation for what happened in this matter is while Williams was carrying this barrier and while he was trying to maneouvre the

barrier, he turned it four feet onto the roadway. After the truck had almost passed him…the barrier hooked onto the back of the truck…and Williams propelled from the parapet to under the wheel of the truck.”

When Persaud was called on to lead a defence, he chose to give sworn testimony. He had testified that on the date in question, he was driving the truck with caution along the Providence Access Road to deliver sand.

He had told the court that he disembarked the vehicle after hearing a funny sound.

The witness had stated that it sounded as if two pieces of metal had collided.

But Persaud related that as he checked around he noticed the motionless body of the police officer lying under the truck.

Page 28

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday February 17, 2016

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Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 29

Letters... Where your views make the news

If they want to swim then try the rivers DEAR EDITOR, In order for sports to be developed properly in Region 1, we need competent people to plan and organise these events. What I have seen over the years is the lack of proper organisational skills, and also, politics became inbedded in these events.

There’s a Sports Officer in the Region, however, the events that were planned by him over the years lacked many things.

All the events are planned in a haphazard way, never start on time, there aren’t officials to oversee the matches - and even when there are any, these persons were asked to officiate the

games on the said day.

There haven’t been any coaches in the Region for over five years. There was one football referee programme that came about because I asked one of the referees to conduct such session during the Digicel’s Football Competition 5 years ago in Mabaruma.

Since then, we haven’t seen any follow up programme so as to better enhance the capabilities of the persons who went on the first training session.

I want to know if it’s because of political affiliation this said officer was appointed? What are his qualifications?

What

The difference...

From page 5 2. Directing traffic from the EBD headed into Georgetown into the now available lane from the vicinity of the stadium or thereabouts 3. Close the western most lane (the lane closest to the DHB) in the vicinity of the Peters Hall School street of the north bound carriageway to traffic headed into Georgetown from the EBD. This will ensure there is still 2 lanes available to traffic headed north and make it safe for vehicles turning north from the bridge 4. Have the traffic lights control the traffic headed north and south at the junction of the EBD road (except for the traffic coming off the bridge turning north) and the DHB. This will allow vehicles wishing to turn south from the DHB or to turn west from Georgetown to the DHB access road to do so safely as well as pedestrians crossing either way For the 20 minute closures, control of the traffic headed east on the bridge is paramount when the change is made to a single lane. What can be done is start merging the traffic into a single lane in the vicinity of the high level span or just below it on the eastern side. Police ranks can be stationed intermittently along the route with the aim of ensuring safety and prosecuting those that disobey the signage to merge.

Enforcement of the instruction is paramount if these suggestions are deemed are deemed workable and is implemented.

John London

A blueprint to...

From page 5 structure, job descriptions, performance appraisals c. Implement succession planning, training, implementation and audit on an annual basis. d. Rigorously train and retrain existing staff to improve their competencies especially where new ventures are concerned. e. Promote staff on basis of competence and integrity at all times. f. Employ retired people at lower levels (as advisors, trainers, etc) and not in substantive positions, thereby giving younger staff opportunities to grow and develop.

8. Establish partnerships with national and international companies that manufacture fruit concentrates, confectionery, jams, jellies, chocolates, etc which utilize sugar as an important ingredient. Or alternatively, adapt and use the present machinery and human

resources to establish new ventures.

As the situation stands with Wales and other estates, it is requisite that when decisions are to be made regarding any closure Ministers and other key personnel involved must use their emotional intelligence at all times.

We must not play political games with the lives of innocent people who are not to be blamed for the current state of the estate, observing that the past management, union and political leaders were happy presiding over the mess that currently obtains.

As free people, we will not contribute to anything without perceiving the gain of property and a future in it. The closure of Wales is inimical to achieving the good life and social cohesion which demand that we show a willingness to belong and contribute to the betterment of our wounded country.

Doodnauth Singh

achievements he has made over the years to develop sports in the Region? From my perspective he hasn’t achieved anything, therefore, he not be the Sports Officer for the region.

Our National Swimming, Track and Field athletes have shown tremendous improvement over the past four years. I have dedicated my time to train some of these athletes that have excelled at Nationals. But what happens after Nationals?

Nothing! Many of the talents usually go to waste because there’s no structured programme so as to better enhance the abilities of these talent of the Region.

I spoke to an advisor from the Ministry of Communities last year during our school sports of the need to have a swimming pool in the Region.

I told him that we have the talent and are competing at the highest level without the facilities to train.

There are only a few places in Guyana where you will see three year old children swimming. His response was that we have the rivers to swim in. I almost said that in Georgetown there’s the Atlantic Ocean and the Demerara River and he should tell them to go swim there.

There’s no Inter-schools Competition, whether it be for cricket, football, volleyball or other sports in the Region.

Many of the schools lack basic sporting equipment. I believe that schools throughout Guyana should have a physical education teacher.

I also noticed that the various newspapers are reporting on events that are held on the coastland and stating that they are National events.

I want to make it very clear that it cannot be a National event when only schools from the coastal areas

are competing, but then the belief is that the coastland is Guyana. The only company/ organisation that has a National Sport event that covers all the schools in the Ten Administrative Regions is Digicel.

I want to see hinterland regions given the same opportunities as the coastland. There’s mad talent in these parts. I can give you one out of many examples; Reckey Williams from Waramuri Mission, Moruca Sub-Region of Region One, totally dominated the 10km road race at Nationals last year. Was anything done for him from corporate Guyana?

No I say! But if that athlete was from the coastland he would have gotten the necessary support.

I know that the Region have to play their part, however, with the current Sports Officer we will not see any significant development.

Andrew Campbell

A dead empire may be on the rise again DEAR EDITOR, Is this the Joshua Generation that will lead us to cricket’s promised land?

Cricket fans of the Caribbean have been denied for too long the enjoyment we derive from dominating our opponents on the field of play that any semblance of success these days should be celebrated with the hope that this is not a strange occurrence.

But that which bodes well for West Indies cricket in the not too distant future. So it is that we applaud the accomplishment of our under 19 boys for a job well done.

Starting off a little shakily in their warm up matches our boys, skippered by Guyana’s star batsman, Hetmeyer soon discovered their mojo and demonstrated to the cricket fraternity that they belonged on the big stage with the likes

of England, South Africa and yes the indomitable host and cricket obsessed India. Are you kidding me.... beating India in their own back yard with everyone in the stadium rooting against you?

They quitted themselves like men and today they proudly hold the world champion trophy aloft for all to see.

Mesrs Sobers, Richards, Lara, Lloyd et al are all blowing kisses your way for what you have done. So do we all who relish this great moment of achievement.

Much more than winning a cricket match you have restored some dignity and respect to Caribbean cricket and make us believe that all is not lost. Editor, I do believe that we as a country and yes all the other countries of the Caribbean should

demonstrate in a meaningful way our heartfelt appreciation for what our boys have accomplished and to set aside their own day to honor our heroes; not with loud music and dancing girls but taking the form of formal ceremonies at State House and City Hall to lend gravitas to the occasion.

At a time when there is so much turmoil in West Indies cricket such a breath of fresh air could not have permeated the Caribbean landscape at a more appropriate time giving us all hope where despair once reigned mightily and certainly a renewed confidence if not in our administrators at least in the boys who do the hard work in the middle. Congratulations under 19! Your are real champions!

Neville George

Former PNC executive...

From page 4 feelings of social acceptance, tolerance, and togetherness?

The solution, of course, lies in the creation of a welltrained and financed survey centre to collect and interpret datasets on a range of special social indicators.

Guyanese should, for example, be polled on their level of trust of the government, their experience with racial discrimination, their chances for economic advancement (especially among youths), and their views on races other than their own. These surveys

measure progress, identify problems and drive solutions.

On this, the social cohesion sub-Ministry should engage the University of Guyana as a matter of priority.

Lastly, it is worth restating that every Ministry and government department plays

a role in social cohesion.

Perhaps, every major government policy or decision should be accompanied by a social cohesion impact statement.

Wales seems to be a good place to start.

Sherwood Lowe

From page 28

VACANCY 1 Cleaner: apply in person, lot 19, Middleton Street, Campbellville, Georgetown or call: 219-4684. Closing date 19th February 2016 Hairdressers, nail technician, barbers, also hair & nail stations available for rental location: New Market StreetCall: 638-1106 Local & International e m p l o y m e n t : www.jobfairworldwide.com.

Call: 233-6517/622-1957/6380595 between the hours of 9am-5pm Mon –Sat. Waiters to work at 704 contact 223-5273 Skilled welder & machinist (limited supervision), apprentice, male & female cleaner. Apply @ Technical Services; 18-23 Eccles Industrial Site.

Cashier to work in super bet Call: 625-5322 Maid- apply at Giftland Office Max Senior Experienced bond clerk around ages of 35- apply @ Alabama Trading with application, Georgetown Ferry Stelling.

Gardener- apply at Giftland Office Max Security to work at Coverden, apply in person at Alabama Trading, Georgetown Ferry Stelling.

"Office Assistant Wanted" Computer Skills Required; MS Word/ExcelConstruction Industry Experience a Plus Email: promiselanddevelop ment@gmail.com LAND FOR SALE Double lot 9950 Sq. Ft @ Republic Gardens, price $25M (negotiable). Call: 6247686 Corner lot for sale 80X45 @ Meadow Brook Gardens, close to Mandela Avenue.

Call: 699-9381; 231-4560 $1.5M (Fenced land), Parfaite Harmonie (major road), Zeelugt (100ftX50ft) with reserve -$2M. Call: 604-2207; 611-7223 Land in Diamond –Call: 6987807 Gold & Diamond land @ Ekereu & Parish Hill Berbice River. Call: 600-0036; 223-1273 Large land at Bagotville W.B.D (37"X724") – farming & residential -$5.7M. Call: 600-0036; 223-1273

Page 30

Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur National Park, Schools’ Welfare Unit commences Botanical Gardens to be restored suicide awareness sessions - in time to welcome visitors for golden jubilee celebrations

Plans will soon come on stream to transform the Botanical Gardens to its original state.

The Kaieteur National Park and the Botanical Gardens will soon undergo massive restorative works as the administration prepares for the celebration of Guyana’s Golden Jubilee.

According to Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman better systems are being put in place to ensure greater visitor safety at the

Kaieteur National Park.

“We are going to be putting up some protective rails to act as deterrent to persons who have other thoughts in mind. We have already introduced a set of protocols like no alcohol, two guides at any one time, one in front and one at the back for every group. As we prepare for the 50th

Labourer further remanded Paul Marciano, a 40-year-old labourer was further remanded when he appeared before Magistrate Clive Nurse to answer a charge of break and enter and larceny.

Marciano, of 12 Water Lily Road, Wismar, Linden, is accused of Break and Enter and larceny between Wednesday December 23 and Friday December 25, 2015 at Third Alley, Wismar.

The allegation is that he broke into the dwelling house of Devon Peters and stole a 32" television set valued $100,000 and two Samsung Galaxy cell phones valued $100,000.

Marciano was further remanded until May 17 when trial is expected to begin. Marciano created havoc in the holding cell screaming that he was wrongly accused. He then asked the police if they wanted him to ‘turn bad’.

Magistrate Nurse asked the orderly to call for silence but Marciano refused to remain quiet. Immediately the magistrate asked that he be charged for disrupting the peace.

Marciano was led out of the holding cell to the cell at the Wismar Police Station.

anniversary, we know that thousands of people are coming home, Guyanese and others, and so we want to make sure Kaieteur is ready for them in its full glory,” Minister Trotman stated. The park has been hit with several suicides over the past few years.

Meanwhile, in Georgetown, plans will soon come on stream to transform the Botanical Gardens to have the park return to its original state.

“We would like to take it back to a place of botany, where people can come and see the different plant species that Guyana is famous for. Right now it is more of a recreational park, and not enough is being done on the botanical side, so we are going to change that up a bit,” the Minister assured.

He also disclosed that rehabilitation works will be carried out on the ‘Seven Ponds Place of Heroes’ and the Zoological Park.

Works are expected to commence soon after the expected passage of the 2016 National Budget on February 22.

Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo flanked by students of the Central High School at the suicide awareness session With the rapid spike in suicide-related deaths in Guyana recently, several agencies including, governmental and nongovernmental entities have taken a stance, as they have embarked on a mission to curb the situation.

Religious entities have also begun to play a part in combating this issue as several walks, seminars, outreaches and even call-in services have been set in motion to bring about public awareness and comfort to the grieving.

On Monday last, the Schools’ Welfare Unit of the Department of Education,

Georgetown, held its first series of Suicide Awareness Sessions at the Central High School.

Under the theme, “Choose Life-Say No to Suicide!,” students and teachers listened to presentations from Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo, wife of the Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo; Pastor Eworth Williams, Motivational Speaker; Mrs. Glenna Vyphius, Chief Schools Welfare Officer; Dr. Latchmin, Professional Counsellor and Mr. Kirk Jardine.

Ziya Rambarran, student of St. Rose’s High School, also performed a beautiful dance which sent a strong message to “Stop Suicide.”

Mrs. Nagamootoo highlighted some of the causes of suicide such as stress, abuse, drug addiction, pressures at school and hurt from broken relationships. She further elaborated that love is very important in a person’s life.

Meanwhile, Pastor Eworth Williams told the students that they have a purpose in life and on the road to accomplishing their purpose they might encounter a few challenges/obstacles.

However, he added that they should never give up; they need to persevere in order to accomplish that which God would have created them to accomplish.

He implored the students to keep their eyes on the prize and remain focused to achieve their goals.

Additionally, Mrs. Vyphius in her discourse indicated the importance of

making the right choices and the fact that suicide is not the answer.

Kirk Jardine popularly known as ‘Chow Pow’, shared his personal battle with stress. He told the children that due to life’s challenges and difficulties he started abusing drugs at 8 years old. He continued by sharing that as a result of his addiction, he attempted suicide. He further explained that at age 31, he entered rehabilitation and after interacting with counsellors, he realized that his life was spared because he had a purpose.

Dr. Latchmin shared how chemical imbalances in the brain can drive someone to committing suicide. She added that it is necessary to have positive thoughts since it will contribute to a positive outlook on life.

The session was chaired by Ms. Onika Pearson, Senior Schools Welfare Officer, who shared some ways to cope with suicidal thoughts and addressed misconceptions about suicide.

The session ended with teachers, students and all present, singing the famous song “Lean on Me” as a reminder that there are persons available to call on in time of need.

Sessions continue on February 19, at 9:00hrs, at the Brickdam Secondary School followed by another session on February 22, 8:30hrs at the St. Stanislaus College and the final session, February 26, at 9:00hrs at the Cummingslodge Secondary School, East Bank Demerara.

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 31

Page 32

Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

Two-year-old rescued from fate of a witch

Lagos, Nigeria (CNN) Desperately emaciated, the 2year-old boy could barely stand as he thirstily gulped water from a bottle.

The boy was abandoned by his family, who accused him of being a witch, according to the aid worker who found him in Uyo, southeast Nigeria.

Danish aid worker Anja Ringgren Loven says the boy, whom she calls Hope,

had been living on the streets and survived on scraps from passersby.

When she found him, she says, he was riddled with worms and had to have daily blood transfusions to revive him.

“Thousands of children are being accused of being witches and we’ve both seen torture of children, dead children and frightened children,” she wrote in Danish on

Facebook, as she appealed for funds to pay for food, medical bills and schooling.

Loven is the founder of African Children’s Aid Education and Development Foundation, which she created to rescue children labeled as witches.

Posting on her Facebook page on February 12, Loven says: “Hope is getting so much better. Already gaining a lot of weight and looking so much more healthy. Now we only need him to talk.

“But that will come naturally when he is out of the hospital and starting his life among all our children.

“Children become stronger together.”

It is a criminal offense in Akwa Ibom state, where Hope was found, to label a child a witch, but the practice persists.

Oil prices fall even more, predictions flourish

The price of Brent crude fell to $27.67 a barrel at one point, its lowest since 2003, while US crude fell as low as $28.36.

Many analysts have slashed their 2016 oil price forecasts, with Morgan Stanley analysts saying that “oil in the $20s is possible”, if China devalues its currency further.

Economists at the Royal Bank of Scotland say that oil could fall to $16, while Standard Chartered predicts that prices could hit just $10 a barrel.

What are the factors have caused the price to sink below $30 a barrel - and what could spark a recovery?

What are the main reasons behind the fall in prices? In a nutshell, it’s down to too much supply and too little

demand.

China’s economic slowdown has curbed appetite for commodities in general, while Saudi Arabia, which produces a third of the OPEC cartel’s output, is keener on preserving its market share than it is on cutting production to boost prices.

At the same time, the rise of the US as a shale oil producer means it now imports less oil, adding to the glut on world markets.

This makes life harder for other non-US, non-OPEC producers, who are facing cutbacks, particularly in the North Sea. Big oil companies such as BP, Shell, Total and Exxon Mobil have weathered the storm by cutting back on billions of pounds of investment, and thousands of jobs

have been cut.

However, Jeremy Batstone-Carr, chief economist at Charles Stanley, warns that further price falls could really start hurting the big firms.

The first clue that they are starting to suffer, he suggests, will be cutting dividend payments to investors - something they have avoided so far.

Meanwhile, Alan Gelder, of oil analysts Wood Mackenzie, says many North Sea oil operators are “beginning to really feel the pain” at current prices.

He says firms can just about survive as many North Sea operators have already cut costs. But Mr Gelder warns that “there is no money left for future investment”.

Page 33

Former UN Secty General dies at 93 Boutros Boutros-Ghali, the former UN secretary general , has died aged 93, the UN Security Council has said.

He died at a Cairo hospital on Tuesday, Egypt’s state news agency said, after being admitted with a broken pelvis.

He took office in 1992 at a time of growing influence for the UN following its decisive role in the Gulf War, serving one five-year term.

However, he faced criticism for the UN’s failure to stop the 1994 genocide in Rwanda.

Washington was angered by his opposition to NATO’s bombing campaign in Bosnia.

The 15-member Security Council observed a minute’s silence after the announcement of Mr Boutros-Ghali’s death, which was made at the start of a session on Yemen’s humanitarian crisis.

No further details on his death were immediately available.

Mr Boutros-Ghali had received a phone call from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah alSisi last Thursday, after being admitted to hospital,

Boutros-Ghali Egyptian press reported.

Diplomacy and deception - Nick Bryant, New York and UN correspondent Boutros Boutros-Ghali was the first Arab to serve as UN Secretary General, but also the first to serve only one term in the post. His five years were dogged by controversy.

During the Rwandan genocide in 1994, he was criticised for the UN’s failure to prevent the massacre. His opposition to NATO’s bombing campaign in Bosnia also angered Washington, and contributed to his ousting.

In terms of a positive legacy, Ban Ki-moon, his suc-

cessor as UN chief, praised the dramatic rise of blue-helmeted peacekeeping on his watch. In a landmark report entitled Agenda for Peace, Boutros-Ghali also emphasised the importance of post-conflict peace-building, which informs a lot of UN thinking to this day.

But perhaps his biggest diplomatic accomplishment pre-dates his time as UN Secretary General. Serving as Egypt’s foreign minister under President Anwar el-Sadat, he played a key role in negotiating the Camp David agreement brokered by the US president Jimmy Carter.

Obama administration hastens pace of improved relations with Cuba The US and Cuba have signed an agreement to resume commercial air traffic for the first time in more than 50 years.

Some charter flights currently fly between the countries but the new agreement could see as many as 110 flights a day - more than five times the current number.

The flights could begin in autumn this year. This is the latest stage in a thawing of the countries’ relationship.

US Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said the commercial flights marked a “critically important milestone in the US effort to engage with Cuba”.

Cuban Minister of Transport Adel Rodriguez called it a “new era”. The US imposed a trade embargo on the communist-run island in 1960.

In late 2014, Presidents Barack Obama and Raul

Castro announced that they would begin normalising their relationship.

They met for the first time in April 2015 in Panama, and shook hands.

They held a private meeting at the UN General Assembly in September.

There can be little doubt that the pace of the thaw between the United States and Cuba is quickening in President Obama’s last year in office.

And this signing of a memorandum of understanding on commercial flights between the old enemies is a good example of that new impetus.

The announcement comes quick on the heels of a move by the US Treasury Department to allow the first US firm to set up premises in Cuba since Fidel Castro took over private business interests at the height of the Cold War.

Diplomatic relations between Washington and Havana have come a long way over the past year. Now they hope the economic links will follow fast.

Cuba reopened its embassy in Washington in July 2015 and a month later, the US reopened its embassy in Havana.

John Kerry visited the city for the ceremony and in doing so he became the first US secretary of state to visit Cuba in 70 years.

Mr Kerry has said the Obama administration wants to lift the trade embargo on the island, something Mr Castro says is essential for a normal relationship.

The Republican-controlled US Congress has blocked this.

The White House is contemplating a possible presidential trip to Cuba.

Page 34

Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 35

‘West Indies are stagnant. We are not...

(From page 32) believed in five bowlers, a wicketkeeper and five batsmen; or a wicketkeeper, four fast bowlers and six batsmen.

Since Bravo was selected back in 2004, I remember thinking: “Wow, they have selected Bravo, that means allrounders could get a chance. Since Bravo you have had Dwayne Smith, you have myself, Jason Holder, now you have Carlos Braithwaite and Andre Russell.

Braithwaite just got an IPL contract worth probably $600,000. In this day and age how are you going to manage that? There must be a medium in which all parties can be happy. Because first of all we can’t compete with Australia, India and England in terms of the pay structure for their players, who could say, “Okay, this year I don’t want to or I can’t play the IPL”, because they are well looked after by their boards. What happens to other boards that cannot do that? So there must be a medium where both parties are happy.

“Once I retire, that’s it for me. And it is not far. I have three kids. I have not seen

them losing their front teeth.

I have missed so many first days of their school.”

What about the argument that Test cricket in the Caribbean is suffering as players are giving up the longer format to play T20?

Is there a way out where Test cricket remains strong and players play all three formats?

I played Test cricket. I was given the captaincy at a time when the y s a i d t h e y needed stability in West Indies cricket. Four years later I was told I was not needed as a capt a i n a n d a s a p l a y e r. I was 29, 30 years old. That was the message sent to me.

You know, I made myself unavailable [to T20 leagues] for so many years just to make sure I stay home and play for West Indies. I am retired from Test cricket. It is a decision that I don’t regret. So I thought I should commit myself to ODI and T20 cricket.

Our Test cricket is a reflection of our first-class cricket.

How good is the first-class cricket in the Caribbean?

They have professionalised the league.

Guys are getting paid way much better at the expense of international players, but the cricket itself has not improved. Leeward Islands have probably lost 14 out of the 16 matches, with probably one being rained out.

Matches are finishing inside two days. It is a reflection of our Test cricket. Spinners dominate the first-class season because the pitches are turning from day one. You don’t get that in Test cricket.

What is the solution?

Ask the guys in charge, who make the decisions.

There are people in place for that. I am here to play and try to win matches.

If these men in charge sit down with the players, is there a way out?

Of course. There is plenty of information. The relationship has always been a broken one.

How concerned were you by WICB CEO Michael Muirhead’s statement that players like you, who did not play in the just concluded Super50, but appeared in the Big Bash might not be considered for

Wednesday February 17, 2016 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You should be promoting your ideas. You will have the discipline to make changes you feel are necessary.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Plan a nice evening for two.

Double check your work and be sure that your boss is in a good mood before you do your presentation.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Plan your day carefully.

Advancement can be yours if you put your efforts into work related matters.

Opportunities for travel must be carefully considered.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) This will not be the time to give too much to your children. Make changes that will enhance your appearance. You will be emotional when dealing with coworkers or employers.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Take advantage of moneymaking ventures. You might find group functions tiring.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Set a limit on the amount you're willing to spend, and be sure to stick to it. You can make gains if you work in

conjunction with others.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Problems with female members of your family may play on your emotions. You can make changes to your domestic scene that will benefit all who reside there.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Social activities or travel should be in your plans. Your communication skills are at an all-time high.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Don't let your personal partner hold you back. Get back into a routine that promises a better looking, more aware individual.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Your ability to visualize will help you convince others of the possibilities. You can make new friends and experience new things if you do a bit of traveling.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You can be sure that any dealing with large institutions should go well. Get involved in activities that will be fun for the whole family.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Female colleagues may be able to help you get the job done.

the tri-series against Australia and South Africa in a few months?

Yes, and he also said he wants the best available players to compete in the Super50 one-day tournament, knowing that some of us were given no-objection certificates to play in the Big Bash.

Also, three months ago the so-called best players were available for the ODI series against Sri Lanka. None of them were selected. So what message are you sending?

One minute you say the best players should play and then three months later the same players are not selected.

Look, I am 32 years old. I am not an Under-19 player anymore. Priorities change with difference situations.

Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who claims he was forced to retire, recently said he fears for the Caribbean youngsters, given the way the WICB has treated players. Do you relate to his feelings?

For years now they have been calling the guys who play T20 around the world mercenaries, money grabbers.

At the end of the day, this is our job. I can’t go to Dubai

Kishawn ‘Special K’ Simon...

(From page 39) while fighting in several Caribbean countries.

Other fights on the card include CABOFE Bantamweight champion, Dexter Marques, up against Venezuelan, Freddy Baleno, in a 10 rounds flyweight fight while female boxer, Mandessa Moses engages Ansila Norville over 4 rounds. Barbados based Guyanese pugilist, Revlon Lake, will fight Barbadian, Miguel Antoine in a 10 rounds welterweight bout while Imran ‘Magic’ Khan will square off with Quincy Gomes in a 6 rounds lightweight duel.

Three amateur bouts will complement the card and Nankumar Singh will clash with Jason Phillips, while Dennis Thomas and Desmond Amsterdam will duke in out over three rounds in an exhibition match. These two are preparing for international duty at the impending Brazil Olympics and are expected to leave Guyana shortly for the trials in Argentina. Delon Charles and Clairmonte Gibson will clash over three rounds to round off the amateur segment.

Admission is $5000 for a ringside seat while general seating costs $2000.

Mall and collect everything in the store and say, I’m Darren Sammy, West Indies cricketer, and everything will be paid for. No, it is not going to happen.

I know and I can vouch for all the guys here that there is no better feeling than representing your country.

There are many ways things can be resolved, but you need proper communication.

Too many people with big egos, man.

How then does West Indies cricket someday utilise the services of Darren Sammy?

Oh, no, no. Once I retire, that’s it for me. And it is not far. I have three kids - 11, six, and my youngest daughter will be three soon. I have not seen them losing their front teeth. I have missed so many first days of their school, so many birthdays…

That is what I do - cricket is my job. Cricket has been my life. You miss so many other important aspects of your personal life. And people label you so many different things. I am a professional.

My passion is cricket. The day I have lost that passion is the day I am done. It is not far.

Did it hurt to go unsold in the IPL auction?

Not really. I believe international cricket is the window

to the IPL. I have barely played international cricket.

Last time, the day before the auction I got 80-odd against Ireland in the first game of the World Cup. Everybody was watching.

Life goes on. I told my wife there is an opportunity that I’ll be home for two months. April is a big month for me: it is my wife’s and my mom’s birthday - both of them were born on the same day.

My daughter’s birthday is also in April. I get to be home for one of the occasions I have missed for the last five or six years.

Are you looking forward to pairing up with Phil Simmons, the West Indies head coach?

I have been looking forward to it for a long time. He is well respected. I can’t wait to start with the camp in Dubai immediately after the PSL, and then the World Cup. We picked the best possible 15 that we could h a v e . We g a v e [ S u n i l ] Narine the best opportunity to be in the squad, even though he needs to go for the ICC test [to clear his action]. We also gave Pollard, who is injured, the best opportunity to get fit. He has been training and his knee is getting better after the surgery.

Page 36

Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

‘West Indies are stagnant. We are not going anywhere’ Darren Sammy talks about how the region’s cricket is suffering for want of communication and decision-making Interview by ESPNcricinfo Editor Nagraj Gollapudi “A lot has been happening,”( Darren Sammy says, as he sits down for this interview. It is Tuesday evening and we are in Dubai, where Sammy is playing for Peshawar Zalmi in the inaugural Pakistan Super League. He looks weary and not keen to talk; not the Sammy we are accustomed to, with his sunny smiles and positivity. He reveals that he has been busy in a dialogue with the WICB over player fees for the World T20. Also, obviously with planning for the tournament, in which he will lead West Indies.

BEING BACK AS WEST INDIES T20 CAPTAIN MUST COME AS A SHOT IN THE ARM FOR YOU? People see it as a surprise, but I have been captain of the T20 team since 2010. It is just a continuation. It is my third World Cup [fifth], in a format which we won, and we stand a good chance of winning again. I am always excited about leading, especially the T20 team. It gives me pleasure and joy to captain some of the most sought after T20 players in the world.

BRIAN LARA HAS SAID: WATCH OUT FOR WEST INDIES IN THE WORLD T20. BETWEEN THE LAST TOURNAMENTAND NOW, WHAT HAS CHANGED FOR THE TEAM? We are not often called favourites. The difference now is we have barely played any T20Is since the last World T20. Most of us have not been selected for ODI cricket as well. It is only by playing in different leagues

“I can vouch for all the guys here that there is no better feeling than representing your country” © Getty Images that we continue keeping ourselves match ready.

It is good that we are playing in Dubai [in the PSL], which is similar conditions to India. The experience we have in the dressing room, especially playing in India [in the IPL], will take us a long way.

Take it one game at a time and believe we are the best. When it comes to T20 cricket, we are a confident bunch. I remember in 2012 when we won, it was about believing that we could win the World Cup. That was the goal. That was the mission.

AS A CAPTAIN HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH THE CHALLENGE OF LEADING PLAYERS WHO HAVE NOT PLAYED AS A TEAM FOR A LONG TIME? It is always a challenge, but the plus for me is that the core of the team remains the same. If I recall, probably eight or nine of us were in the team that won in 2012 and the team that lost in the semi-final in 2014. These guys are very clear about their roles now in

the team. It is a team that is very experienced, and it shouldn’t be too difficult for them to play the role that they have been asked to.

“One minute you say the best players should play and then three months later the same players are not selected” IT MUST BE DIFFICULT TO KEEPAPOSITIVE MIND, CONSIDERING YOU HAVE NOT BEEN GIVEN A WICB CONTRACT? At the end of the day West Indies cricket is not about one individual. Since the inception of retainer contracts, I have always had one. To not be offered a contract is disappointing. But I have moved on. Last year I have played probably the World Cup and a few T20s. And now we have only been selected for T20s. I have not really represented the West Indies. So I ply my trade in different T20 leagues around the world. That is how I provide for my family.

Any sportsman, their pas-

“The only team that has shown that they could win cups is the T20 team” © Getty Images sion, their desire is to represent their county. That is where your ultimate pride is.

That has always been the case for me. I have learned throughout my career that nothing lasts forever. It is about me keeping myself fit and, when given the opportunity, like in this World Cup, going out and representing my region, hopefully we could win the World Cup. Because I believe we could.

Our cricket is suffering because we are not making the right decisions. And it did not start with me, it did not start with Pollard, Bravo, Chris Gayle, Jason Holder. It started decades ago, way back. We have been known to manage situations poorly.

HOW WOULD HAVINGA CONTRACT HELP YOU? Having a retainer contract is [recognising] what you do in the field. If you noticed, only the guys who are playing Test cricket got retainer contracts. There are guys who play one-day and T20 cricket, formats West Indies does well in. You can safely say T20 is the format we are best at. There are criteria based on which you are supposed to get a contract. I believe what I have done, what some of the other players have done, merits a contract.

Simple. I also don’t believe that if you are a senior [player] you are supposed to get a contract. It should be based on what you have done in the matches you have been asked to play.

WHYARE YOU NOT PART OF THE WEST INDIES’ PLAYERS ASSOCIATION? They [WIPA] are the ones WICB negotiates with on player issues. But 14 of the 15-member World Cup squad is not part of WIPA. West

Indies cricket has gone through a lot and it will continue to go through a lot. I don’t see things changing anytime soon.

WHAT EXACTLY IS THE ISSUE THAT HAS DISTURBED YOU? IS IT RELATED TO THE CONTRACTS DISPUTE THAT FLARED UP DURING THE INDIA TOUR? We players are not happy with the remuneration offered by the WICB to participate in the World T20. We have not given any authorisation to WIPA to negotiate on our behalf. A large number of players in the squad do not receive any significant remuneration from WICB at all, so we want the opportunity to negotiate fairly the financial terms within the contract.

In the past, 25% of the income received by the WICB for participating in ICC tournaments was distributed to the squad. The remuneration being offered now compared to previous World Cup events is shocking, to say the least.

We are being offered now just $6900 per match across the board, irrespective of experience. Players are being asked to start providing services from nearly four weeks ahead of the World Cup and be guaranteed just $27,600 if they play all the guaranteed matches, which is a staggering reduction. What happens to a player who does not feature in a match?

The WICB say they cannot figure out what 25% of the participation fee is as the ICC’s formula has changed.

Surely they must know a figure. What is it? We want the match fees to be doubled. I have also written to the WICB, asking if they have got a sponsor for the team, and

what is the sponsorship revenue. We need answers.

IS THEREADANGER OF WEST INDIES PULLING OUT OF THE WORLD T20 IN CASE THE WICB DOES NOT WANT TO NEGOTIATE? Under my watch players have never said they would strike or not take part in the World Cup. All we’ve said is, we don’t accept the terms given or agreed by an association that doesn’t represent us.

CONSIDERING THAT JASON HOLDER WAS DENIED ACHANCE TO PLAY IN THE PSLAND RAYAD EMRIT LOST THE TRINIDAD CAPTAINCY FOR PLAYING IN THE BANGLADESH PREMIER LEAGUE, DO YOU RECKON THAT THE WICB AND DOMESTIC BOARDS HAVE SHOWN THEMSELVES TO BE POOR NEGOTIATORS WITH CARIBBEAN PLAYERS WHO PLAY IN T20 LEAGUES WORLDWIDE? Not only in T20, in our Test team, in our one-day team. It just shows the state of West Indies cricket. We are stagnant. We are not going anywhere. The only team that has shown that they could win cups is the T20 team.

They call us all sorts of names, but yes, when selected, we still turn up to play for our country.

You cannot ignore the rise of T20 cricket. It is crazy to ignore how T20 cricket has taken the world by storm.

[Dwayne] Bravo and myself were talking the other day.

Look at how many players like Bravo have come through since he made his Test debut.

Remember, West Indies (Continued on page 31)

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

PSG’s Cavani shows his worth with winner against Chelsea PARIS (Reuters) Paris St Germain substitute Edinson Cavani, criticised by French media lacking composure in front of goal, responded in style to earn a 2-1 home win over Chelsea in their Champions League last-16 first leg on Tuesday.

The Uruguay forward, who has scored only once in Ligue 1 this year, fired a low angled shot past goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois in the 78th minute after John Obi Mikel had cancelled out Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s opener at the end of the first half.

That did not surprise PSG coach Laurent Blanc, who brought Cavani on for Lucas four minutes before he got the winner.

“I’m not just saying it because he scored tonight, I always say it, Eddy is a player who can score,” Blanc told a news conference. “He was going through a tough period so I hope it will give him his confidence back.”

PSG knocked Chelsea out on away goals at the same stage last year after the Blues had prevailed the previous season in the quarter-finals and have the edge going into the second leg.

It was Chelsea’s first defeat in 13 games since Dutch-

Edinson Cavani scores the second goal for Paris St Germain.

(Reuters / Benoit TessierLivepic) man Guus Hiddink took over from the sacked Jose Mourinho but they will fancy their chances at Stamford Bridge on March 9.

With Chelsea’s inspirational captain John Terry ruled out with a hamstring injury, Branislav Ivanovic moved from full back to central defence and wore the skipper’s armband.

Marco Verratti started for PSG having only just recovered from a groin injury, while Blanc chose to field Marquinhos on the right side

of defence in place of the Serge Aurier, who has been suspended for insulting Blanc and several team mates.

Chelsea had the best chance midway through the first half when striker Diego Costa’s point-blank header was instinctively palmed on to the bar by PSG keeper Kevin Trapp.

Ibrahimovic, who was sent off in London last year and picked up a yellow card on Tuesday, broke the deadlock six minutes before halftime with a low free kick de-

flected past Courtois by the heel of Obi Mikel, who had fouled Brazilian Lucas.

But Chelsea hit back just before the interval when Costa deflected a corner into the path of Mikel, who controlled the ball before firing home his first goal in 14 months.

Lucas was replaced in the 74th minute by Cavani who had an immediate impact, collecting Angel Di Maria’s perfect pass on the right and scoring with a low shot through Courtois’s legs.

Page 37

CONCACAF WOQC - Lady ...

Lady...

(From page 38) Kayla De Souza.

Despite looking much more purposeful in the second half, the lead that the Soca Princesses had created was too much for the history making Lady Jags to pull back mentally and otherwise. The win for Trinidad cements their semifinal place on Friday CONCACAF’s best in the business, the USA. At the post match, press conference Lady Jags Head Coach Mark Rodrigues acknowledged that the quickness of the Soca Princesses was too much for his side to handle. ”There’s a saying that speed kills, I think that was appropriate in today’s game, speed does kill.” He also noted that the tournament was an opportunity for the players to advance themselves. Guyana made two changes from the side that faced Guatemala, Bria Williams and Dana Bally replaced Julia Gonsalves and Olivia Gonsalves in the starting line-up, defenders and midfielders respectively.

Guyana: 1. Chante Sandiford-GK, 2. Alison Heydorn-MD, 3. 6. Leah Romalho-DF, 7. Justine Rodrigues-DF, 8. Ashlee Savona-MF (15. Mariam El-Masri-MD-27th min), 9. Ashley Rodrigues-MD (Capt.), 12. Otesha Charles-FW, 13. Kailey LeilaDF (10. Calaigh Copland-FW-71st min), 14. Dana Bally-MD (4.

Kayla De Souza-DF-76th min),20. Bria Williams-DF. Subs not used: Briana DeSouza-DF, 5. Julia GonsalvesDF,11.Brittany Persaud-MD, 17. Olivia Gonsalves-MD, 18.

Simone Busby-GK, 19. Ruth George-GK. 16. Kelly Butler-DF (Out due to injury) Trinidad and Tobago – 1. Kimika Formes-GK, 2. Jenella Cunningham-DF, 3. Mariah Shade-FW, 5. Arin King-DF, 6.

Khadidra Debesette-MD, 9. Maylee Attin-Johnson-MD (Capt.), 10. Tasha St. Louis-MD, 11. Janine Francois-MD, 12.

Ahkeela Mollon-MD, 14. Karyn Forbes-MD, 19. Kennya Cordner-MD. Subs:4. Danielle Blair-DF, 7. Kayla Taylor-MD, 8. Victoria Swift-MD, 13. Naomie Guerra-MD, 15. Liana Hinds-DF, 16. Jo Marie Lewis-FW, 17. Anastasia Prescott-DF, 18. Shalette Alexander-GK, 20.

Saundra Baron-GK

Page 38

Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Malteenoes to hold pre-Mash cricket under lights on Friday

By Sean Devers The Malteenoes sport club (MSC) will hold a fundraising Pre-Mashramani fourteam floodlight cricket competition on Friday February 19 at the club’s ground from 18:00 hrs.

Puni Warriors, Superior Wood, Trophy Stall and Enmore will be the teams competing and food and drinks will on sale. The club is encouraging cricket fans and MSC supporters to come out and enjoy a night of fun with the family.

Malteenoes was founded in 1902 by Bajan Tailor Ferdinand Archer and is located on Thomas Road, Thomas Lands.

The MSC ground was recently raised to avoid flooding while the Pavilion has been painted and refurbished. But like most clubs, including the world renowned GCC Bourda, local clubs are finding it in-

creasingly hard to sustain their clubs and sporting events without adequate funds.

The Club, which plays in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) competitions at all levels and also has a Table Tennis section, is holding Friday’s venture as a part of its fund raising drive to help in the club’s development programme.

Charlie Jones was the first Malteenoes player to represent his Country or the West Indies and since then MSC has produced several players who played First Division Cricket including Pat Legall, Glendon Gibbs, Colin Stuart, Barrington Browne, Rex Collymore, Ray Joseph, Colwin Cort, K e n n e t h Wo n g , K e v i n E d w a r d s , Lennox Cush, Neil Barry, Steven Jacobs, Shemroy Barrington and Shawn Thompson. Berbicians Clayton Lambert and John Trip both

Malteenoes Sports Club

played Test cricket and represented MSC in Division one cricket.

In 1986 MCS won every youth tournament played in Demerara which resulted in half of the 14-man squad which participated in the 1987 Regional U-19 series in Jamaica coming from MSC. This is still the record for most players from the same club playing at the Regional U-19 level at the same tournament. The seven players were affectionately called the ‘fantastic seven’ by veteran MSC executive Edward Richmond.

In 1984, MSC President Claude Raphael was the person responsible for introduc-

ing a youth section to the club. Raphael played division one cricket as a keeper and served as Club President for

over two decades.

He was also a National selector, a WICB Director, a Vice-President of the GCB,

President of the DCB and first President of the GCA during his Administrative Career.

Foreign Affairs Ministry to hold weekend pre-Mash Sports day The Foreign Affairs Ministry will hold a weekend preMash Sports day Friday and Sunday with Dominoes on Friday and Tapeball cricket on Sunday.

Sports Coordinator James Lewis has collaborated with other colleagues from the Ministry to host the Event and informed that entries for both activities close tomor-

row.

The inter Ministries/ Workplace Knockout dominoes competition will be held on the Ministry’s protocol Lawns and starts at 16:30hrs, while the Tapeball cricket will be played on the Tarmac of the National Cultural Centre from 09:30hrs.

At stake in both competitions are trophies and med-

als.

The ministry has named a six-man Domino team which includes Ambassador Michael Brotherson, Mark Forde, Devon Jackman, Dexter Blue and another overseas Domino star.

The manager is James Lewis and can be contacted on telephone numbers 6726176 or 666-5857 for information.

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 39

Sepp Blatter back at FIFA for Brazil court freezes Neymar appeal against 8-year ban assets, including yacht and jet Blatter arrived 90 minutes early for the scheduled 9 a.m.

(0800 GMT) start of his hearing with the FIFA appeal committee, as punctual as he used to be when arriving for work before being barred from the building last October while under investigation.

The eight-year sanction was imposed by the FIFA ethics committee in December.

Blatter’s case was expected to last as long as Platini’s eight-hour session on Monday with the fourman appeal committee to appeal a similar ban.

FIFA declined to speculate on when verdicts are expected. Platini has suggested Thursday or Friday, just one week before the Feb. 26 election to choose Blatter’s successor.

Blatter has said he expects to attend the election meeting in Zurich as a formal ending to his time at FIFA, which he joined in 1975.

“After 40 years, it can’t happen this way,” Blatter, FIFA’s president for more than 17 years, said in December when pledging to appeal.

“I’m fighting to restore my rights.”

Blatter and Platini previously said they expect their appeals to FIFA to fail. They have said they would then take their cases to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

FIFA’s appeals body, chaired by Larry Mussenden, a former attorney general of Bermuda, rarely annuls or cuts sanctions by the ethics or disciplinary committees.

Blatter and Platini were found guilty of offering or accepting gifts, conflicts of interest and disloyalty to FIFA. Both deny wrongdoing,

and claim they had a verbal deal for additional salary former France great Platini would get to work as a Blatter’s adviser from 19992002.

Platini asked for a salary of 1 million Swiss francs, then around $1 million. Blatter said there was a contract for 300,000 Swiss francs, the same as its then secretary general in line with FIFA’s salary structure, plus a “gentleman’s agreement” to get the rest later.

Swiss law obliged FIFA only to pay the deferred money within five years but Platini, by then UEFA president, reportedly asked for the balance in 2010 and was paid in February 2011.

That timing has raised suspicion as the payment came during a FIFA presidential election campaign in which UEFA later urged its members to support Blatter against Mohamed bin Hammam of Qatar. Blatter won unopposed after Bin Hammam was implicated in bribing Caribbean voters.

FIFA ethics prosecutors have also appealed the eightyear bans, seeking life bans for Blatter and Platini if bribery can be proved.

After his hearing Monday, Platini said most of the discussion focused on the verbal agreement.

Platini’s long-time friend and fellow Frenchman, tournament organizer Jacques Lambert, was at FIFA on Tuesday to give evidence for a second day.

The Platini payment emerged during a wider Swiss federal investigation of FIFA business, including suspected money laundering in the 2018 and 2022 World Cup bidding contests.

Switzerland’s attorney general, Michael Lauber, opened criminal proceedings against Blatter in September for alleged mismanagement and misappropriation of FIFA funds. That case also relates to Blatter signing off undervalued 2010-2014 World Cup broadcast rights for the Caribbean to former FIFA vice president Jack Warner.

SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazilian authorities have blocked assets of Barcelona star Neymar, including a yacht, a jet and several properties worth almost $50 million.

A Sao Paulo federal court rejected an appeal from the Brazilian striker last week and started issuing warrants to freeze the assets worth 192 million reals (almost $50 million), Brazilian media reported on Monday.

Last year, Neymar, his family and related businesses were found guilty of evading 63 million reals in taxes (almost $16 million) between 2011 and 2013 when he was playing for Brazilian club Santos. He has denied any wrongdoing.

The 23-year-old Neymar used the jet to travel to Brazil for World Cup qualifying matches and holidays.

Iagaro Jung Martins, an auditor with Brazil’s federal tax agency, told The Associated Press that Neymar isn’t likely to go to jail if he pays what regulators say he owes.

“He can still appeal that decision, but it is a step forward,” Martins told the AP. “Nothing changed to what was in place last year: if he pays what he owes, the case is closed. Our legislation isn’t too harsh.”

The assets seizure is the latest in a streak of bad news for the Brazilian star off the pitch.

On Feb. 2 Neymar and his father were questioned for three hours in a Madrid court about the player’s transfer to Barcelona. The case was brought by Grupo Sonda, which invested in Neymar early in his career and was allegedly entitled to 40 percent of the total transfer amount.

Barcelona maintains the deal cost the club 57.1 million euros (then $74 million).

Santos officially received a

payment of 17.1 million euros ($18.5 million), with the remaining 40 million euros ($55.5 million) going to a company owned by Neymar’s father, Neymar Santos. But investigations in Spain later showed that Barcelona spent nearly 83.3 million euros ($90 million) to acquire Neymar.

Former and current Barcelona presidents and representatives of Santos were also questioned. The Brazilian club also claims to have been hurt by the transfers.

A l l p a r t i e s d e nied any wrongdoing.

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Courtland All Stars are BCB/Raffik and sons 2015 20 overs 2nd Div champions An impressive all round performance by man of the match, Keon Sinclair (26 not out and 3 for 18) and matured batting by former Berbice senior pacer Eon Gibson (49) led defending champions Courtland All Stars to their second consecutive title of the Raffik and Sons Second Division 20-Over Cricket Competition for teams in the Lower/Central Corentyne area after they defeated Kennard’s Memorial Cricket Club of Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne by 39 runs.

In the final played last Sunday at the Area ‘H’ ground, Courtland All Stars won the toss and took first strike. They lost former Berbice youth player Dwayne Crandon for nought and Leroy Bristol for 2 and was in a spot of bother.

However, Eon Gibson joined Jamal Cort and repaired the innings with a third wicket partnership of 66 before Cort went for a mature 34. Keon Sinclair joined Gibson and wasted no time as they put on 43 for the 4th wicket when the latter went for a well

Captain John Percival collects winning trophy and cash incentive from Angela Haniff. played 49. Sinclair remained unbeaten on 26 as his team ended on 138 for 6 off their allotted 20 overs. Zomesh Mangroo and Chunilall Mankaran took two wickets apiece.

In reply, Kennard’s Memorial CC started impressively with Kamadirine Permaloo and Dellon Hinds putting on 46 for the first wicket before the former was needlessly run out for an at-

tacking 25. Kennard’s Memorial never recovered with only Hinds with 26 and Thomas George 15 offering any resistance. They ended on 100 all out. Pacer Sinclair took 3 for 18 and got support from Michael Cummings and Troy Matheson with two wickets each.

In the third place playoff game preceding the final, powerful Rose Hall Town de-

The jubilant winning team pose for the camera. molished Fyrish by 10 wickets with 5 overs to spare.

Fyrish won the toss, batted first and scored a challenging 149 for 8 wickets off 20 overs.

S. Bacchus made 39 n.o. and Chetram Roopnarine 32.

Berbice youth player Junior Sinclair took 2 for 22.

In reply, Rose Hall Town raced to 150 without loss with former Guyana wicketkeeper/ batsman Delbert Hicks 66 and

Michael Felix 61.

At the presentation ceremony which followed, Courtland All Stars collected the winning trophy and cash incentives while Kennard’s Memorial collected the runner up prizes. Rose Hall Town won the third place and Fyrish, fourth place, both getting a trophy for their efforts.

Sinclair was voted man of the match in the final.

Speaking on behalf of the board, Vicky Bharosay thanked the teams that participated, the management of the ground for their support and Raffik and Sons for the sponsorship. He added that the idea of these tournaments across Berbice is to promote village cricket with the hope to reduce crimes and at the same time, unearth new talents for Berbice cricket.

Athletics Kenya CEO to temporarily step aside over bribery allegations

Isaac Mwangi (AP) NAIROBI (Reuters) Athletics Kenya’s chief executive has asked to step aside for 21 days pending an investigation into allegations that he sought bribes to reduce the doping bans of two Kenyan athletes who failed drugs tests, the federation said on Tuesday.

Isaac Mwangi last week dismissed as “fabrication” accusations by Joy Sakari and Francisca Koki Manunga that he had asked each athlete for $24,000 to reduce their four-year bans. The two runners were caught doping in

August at the world championships in Beijing, where Kenya topped the medals table.

Athletics Kenya (AK) officials on Tuesday showed journalists a letter from Mwangi that stated: “The allegations have caused me a lot of mental anguish.”

“I am anxious to have my name cleared,” he added, according to the letter dated Feb. 15.

Kenya is a global leader in endurance running, both on the track and in big-city marathons, but more than 40

of its athletes have been banned for doping in the past three years.

The spike in doping, coupled with corruption allegations against top AK officials over the past year, has stoked fears in Kenya that the East African nation could follow Russia and be suspended from global athletics.

The doping crisis in Russia and Kenya, as well as allegations of corruption within the world governing body, the IAAF, have cast a shadow over the sport ahead of the Rio Olympics in August.

Jack Tuwei, the AK president, said the newly formed Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) would conduct the investigation into allegations against Mwangi and report findings in two weeks.

“If cleared, (Mwangi) will come back,” said Tuwei.

He added that the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the IAAF Ethics Commission had been in touch about the allegations.

WADA last week said it was “extremely troubled” by reports against Mwangi, add-

Athletes sprint during a training session on a dirt track in the town of Iten in western Kenya, November 13, 2015. Picture taken November 13, 2015.

(Reuters/Siegfried Modola) ing that they were “eerily similar sounding” to what had been learned through an independent commission investigation into widespread doping in international athletics.

Tuwei’s predecessor, Isaiah Kiplagat, and two other

senior AK officials, are being investigated by the IAAF over corruption allegations during their tenures at the federation. All three deny any wrongdoing.

Kenya last week missed a deadline to prove to WADA that it was doing enough to

combat doping and faces being declared a non-compliant nation, which could lead to a global ban. But AK officials, including Mwangi, say Kenya has increased efforts to root out doping ahead of the Rio Olympics.

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 41

Decoding the West Indies Under-19 success story

Even as some of the other sides played practice matches in the build-up to the tournament, West Indies Under-19 players had to make do with conditioning camps © Getty Images ESPNcricinfo - Keacy Carty and Keemo Paul batted for 20.3 overs to wipe out the 69 remaining runs needed to win their first Under-19 World Cup title. There were pockets where an inevitable collapse looked a possibility, but the pair batted with the serenity and confidence that belied their age.

Incredibly, Paul struck the only four and six in the partnership.

Carty’s answer when asked if it was a conscious effort gave you a peek into his temperament.

“Singles could have done it. We just needed 146 from 300 balls,” he said.

Wait, that’s not how West Indies do it these days, do they?

A careful, and not carefree approach, did the trick. Every run they took in the unbroken sixthwicket stand indicated their willingness to grind it out and not look for glory hits. At no stage did they look nervous. They didn’t seem to mind the odd miss or the fact that they were made to scrap and look ungainly, particularly against Mayank Dagar, the left-arm spinner, who troubled them with his loop and flight.

What they also showed during

the course of the partnership was the hunger to succeed and not leave the task up to someone else.

Equally impressive was their ability to think out of the box.

Paul’s Mankad on Richard Ngarava that turned around their campaign and Tevin Imlach’s underarm flick to catch Rishabh Pant off guard in the final were just a few examples.

Watching them come out and play like free-spirited tigers, you could sense their changed mindset and approach.

The beauty of their win wasn’t in their preparation, but their execution at crunch moments.

Unlike some of the other sides, West Indies played all of three matches together as a group against Bangladesh, who had played 29 matches between the two editions.

Shimron Hetmyer’s side came into the tournament on the back of a 3-0 whitewash. They started slowly, but found their bearings when it mattered. That they managed to pull through as a side despite playing a handful of games together in the build-up could perhaps be put down to their Under-15 and Under17 development structure, where a few of the side’s members played

West Indies celebrate a wicket, India v West Indies, final, Under-19 World Cup, Mirpur, February 14, 2016 ©Getty Images together.

In between 2014 and 2016, most of the players featured in the regional Under-19 tournament; handful of them played first-class or List A matches for their respective sides. To make up for the lack of cricket together as a group, the WICB organised three conditioning camps, the first of which was held in Barbados after the Easter holidays last year.

Then they got together a group of 18 in Jamaica in August, while the final touches of their preparation was added in Grenada in December. Interestingly, their late replacement, the fast bowler Chemar Holder, was not in any of these camps.

On the eve of the final, Hetmyer said that the team was hurt by the three losses to Bangladesh, but insisted all the players learnt a lot and tried to use their experience of the conditions better. “The guys were hurting after that series, but each and every member of the squad picked up from there.”

Former West

Jaguars name unchanged squad for B’dos clash Shiv unavailable due to inured finger An unchanged 13-man squad from the one which beat the Red Force at Providence on Monday has been retained by the National selectors for their seventh round clash against Barbados Pride in Barbados from Friday.

Centuries from Leon Johnson and Man-of-theMatch Vishaul Singh and a nine-wicket match haul from left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul led Guyana to victory in the last round.

Defending champions Jaguars climbed to 101 points from six consecutive wins this season, 19 points

ahead of second placed team Pride.

Robin Bacchus and Ronsford Beaton, who did not play in the last game, have both retained for the Barbados trip, while Chris Barnwell and Steven Jacobs are still on the injured list.

Shiv Chanderpaul who has completed his participation in the Masters League in Dubai is unavailable due to a reportedly injured finger.

Permaul, Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Anthony Bramble all got good starts while every bowler bowled well against the Red Force.

The squad is scheduled to depart Guyana for Barbados this morning.

Guyana Jaguars squad: Rajendra Chandrika, Taignarine Chanderpaul, Assad Fudadin, Leon Johnson (Capt), Vishaul Singh (V/Capt), Raymon Reifer, Anthony Bramble, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Gudakesh Motie, Keon Joseph, Ronsford Beaton, Robin Bacchus, Esuan Crandon (Head Coach), R a y o n G r i ff i t h ( A s s t Coach/Manager) (Sean Devers)

Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop, who followed this team throughout the campaign as a TV commentator, said that he felt the Mankad incident spurred on the team. “I think the Zimbabwe win and the whole Mankad issue, whether you agree it was right or wrong, spurred them on,” he said. “Some of the issue that was said about Keemo Paul and team, was disgraceful. I don’t think it’s a coincidence, because they just lifted their game after that. The passage of cricket was untidy. I didn’t see the Fiji game, but they showed potential against England even if they lost.”

Bishop said while their preparation was far from ideal, the tournament was an indication that there was still plenty of talent underneath the surface in the Caribbean. “They didn’t have ideal preparation and it should not serve as the template going into the next World Cup,” he observed. “But what the win says is that there is tremendous amount of talent. We don’t have the volume of bowlers and batsmen in the past, but I think we have enough talent and these

guys have proved that it needs to be harnessed.”

This coming together has been the long lost story of West Indies cricket. A group of teenagers have now shown the way, whether it is through sheer guts to effect a Mankad or run a batsman who was just leaving the ball and taking a step out. In the heat of the battle, their realization that Mohammad Saifuddin was only bowling yorkers and it can be tackled by a shorter back-lift and low intensity batting, said much about their awareness which should win a lot of praise.

The likes of Paul, Imlach and Shamar Springer now have full cricket careers. But they are from the West Indies; the conflicting West Indies, the dying West Indies.

The West Indies that is only in nostalgia and one whose future seems uncertain.

When they win a World Cup in the sub-continent by beating Pakistan, Bangladesh and India in the knockout stages and do so the hard way, you wouldn’t want to give up on them so soon.

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Wednesday February 17, 2016

CONCACAF WOQC - Lady Jags lose to Soca Princesses 1-5 T&T side set up semifinal date with USA on Friday

By Franklin Wilson in H o u s t o n Te x a s compliments of Fazia’s Collection, Crown Mining Supply, Anglin Enterprises USA, Stag Beer, Germans Restaurant, Queensway Security Service A spirited second half performance by the Lady Jags was not enough for them to stave off the Trinidad and Tobago’s Soca Princesses who romped to a commanding 5-1 win and a place in the semifinals of the CONCACAF Women’s Olympic Qualifying Championship here at the BBVA Compass Stadium, H o u s t o n , Te x a s , l a s t evening.

Playing in their final group match and a place at stake for both sides, it was G u y a n a ’s C a r i b b e a n neighbours who made it through following four first half goals in 21 minutes as they recorded their third win

in as many encounters at various levels against the Guyanese.

It was a clash of the best two female teams in the Caribbean seeking to outdo each other and it was the Soca Princesses that triumphed in the end on account of a blistering opening 21 minutes led by CONCACAF Player of the Match, Trinidadian midfielder, Ahkeela Mollon.

In the first minute, Jady Jags’ goalkeeper Chante Sandiford as she has done in the previous matches had to effect a save from a cross by Mollon into the box. It was clear from the first whistle that the Trini ladies meant business.

Sandiford and her defence were again called upon in the 5th minute to defend as Mollon again threw the ball into the area.

Beautiful work again by Mollon from just over the half way line saw her easing

past Ashlee Savona and other players into the box before passing to nippy midfielder Kennya Cordner who faked Sandiford to her left, hitting into the open goal in the 7th minute to take the lead for T&T. Three minutes later the advantage would be doubled when Mollon showed her class and power by working her way deep into the attacking third before passing back to Mariah Shade whose left footed punch with her instep beat Sandiford to the far right in the V. Canada could not have scored early against the Lady Jags but T&T were up two inside 10 minutes.

Constant pressure by Trinidad brought the third goal in the 17th minute, an own goal from Justine Rodrigues, the Lady Jags failing to communicate effectively at the back, cracking under pressure.

Guyana’s Alison Heydorn #2 gets around T&T’s Arin King in their CWOQC match last night at the BBVA Compass Stadium.(CONCACAF photo)

Mollon took it on herself in the 21st minute to further tighten their stranglehold on the game while solidifying their semifinal push.

She worked her way from just inside the Guyana half again displaying a high

2015 A. Ally & Sons Inter-Secondary School Under-17 Cricket Competition

Rosignol Secondary, Berbice High declared joint winners due to rain

Prolific all rounder Javid Karim collects his trophy from BCB representative Angela Haniff.

Persistent rainfall forced the BCB to declare Rosignol Secondary School and Berbice High School joint winners of the inaugural 2015 A. Ally & Sons InterSecondary School Under-17 Tw o - i n n i n g s C r i c k e t

Competition.

At a short presentation that followed, Angela Haniff of the BCB thanked A. Ally and Sons for coming on board and support the return of school cricket after so many years. She said that the

Captains of the winnings teams, Berbice High School (left) Malcolm Mickle and Rosignol Secondary Chandradat Veerasammy proudly display their trophy in the presence of BCB representative Angela Haniff. competition was well organised by the competitions committee and unearthed many new talents.

This competition will feed the clubs who will then feed the county. She added that she is so happy to learn that

most, if not all of the members of the Berbice under-15 team played in this competition.

Prolific all rounder Javid Karim was voted the most valuable player of the tournament.

degree of strength, awareness and control to beat Sandiford at the near post in the 21st minute as the Trinis took a commanding 40 lead as they took the fight away from the Lady Jags.

The Soca Princesses kept pushing from almost the half way line, underscoring their confidence. In a desperate move to cool down the Trinis, Guyana brought on their most successful scorer at this level, Mariam ElMasri in the 27th minute at the expense of Ashlee Savon in midfield as they sought much needed energy upfront.

Cordner made a beautiful turn in the box in the 30th minute but the ensuing shot sailed over the crossbar, she could have choose any side of the goal.

Trinidad continued to have their way, working the ball well on both flanks and down the middle but it was the flank plays that the Lady Jags found difficult in containing.

Excellent presence of mind from Bria Williams with one minute to go before the break saw the Lady Jags pulling one back, she capitalized on a bad pass from T&T goalie Kimika Forbes who attempted a quick pass to her teammate; Williams intercepted the ball with Forbes well off her line to hit in Guyana’s first goal.

The half ended 4-1, the Lady Jags being able to keep the Soca Princesses goalless in the final 24 minutes whilst getting in a goal of their own.

Guyana’s plan in the second

half was clear with El-Masri and Captain Ashley Rodrigues teaming-up up front as forward Otesha Charles fell back in defence.

Sandiford brought off another clinical save in the 49th minute, parrying away a shot from Janelle Cunningham.

The Lady Jags looked much more alive and energetic in the second half as they threw all they had at their opponents. After keeping Trinidad quiet for 39 minutes, Cordner netted her second of the match and Trinidad’s fifth of the game; Sandiford did not take cleanly from a cross and the alert Cordner obliged in the 61st minute.

Enjoying a handsome lead, Trinidad made subs in the 64th(in Jo Marie Lewis, out Mariah Shade) and 65thminute (in Liana Hinds, out Janine Francois), even as Guyana looked their liveliest in the attacking third. In the 71st minute Guyana introduced forward Calaigh Copland for defender Kailey Leila. One minute later Trinidad brought in Victoria Swift for Tasha St. Louis.

The game had to be temporarily halted in the 73rd minute after the on field sprinklers unceremoniously sought to cool down the players much to the laughter of the fans and the amusement of the players and on-field officials.

Guyana’s final; sub was made in the 77th minute, midfielder Dana Bally making way for defender (Continued on page 33)

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 43

Guardians believe its home grown and good

By Edison Jefford Plaisance Guardians believe that because it is one of the only First Division clubs that is filled with players from its original community, the chemistry and talent will be sufficient to get them to the Final Four of the National Basketball Championships.

Guardians’ Coach, Andrew Hercules threw direct barbs at his opposition when he stated that he does not have to “buy players like some teams” for the upcoming National Championships: The Road to Mecca III, The Jubilee Edition.

“We are hungry right now; we’re not buying players like some other teams; we’re a home grown team,” Hercules said, adding that the club celebrated six years since its formation yesterday, and will be reflecting on tapes of its

performance over that time.

He was directly referring to the fact that there are plans in the pipelines of some teams to import their overseas-based players.

Colts is talking about the return of forward, Andrew Ifill and Pepsi Sonics is considering US-based Collis ‘Forty’ Pluck.

The grassroots hype surrounding the significant 2016 Mecca, which is being held when Guyana is celebrating 50 years of independence, is prompting some teams to improve their roster, ahead of jump ball on March 4 to have a chance of making history.

Marlon Chesney

Enoch Matthews

“I gave our guys a break after our last tournament; we have no injuries and we are still about 60 percent ready.

As a coach, I need to see where my players are with synergy and condition. Once I see that, we will be good to go,” Hercules asserted.

Guardians rose to prominence late last year in the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association

(GABA) League, losing in the finals to Colts United. It toppled the higher ranked Pacesetters and Ravens in that tournament, which elevated its expectations.

Its performance in that tournament was owed largely to the fact that point guard, Nikkoloi Smith has provided an incomparable offensive spark. Its veteran guard, Enoch Mathews has fitted well into the offence along with Trenton Woolford, Marlon Chesney

GBBC ‘Hostile Territory’ boxing extravaganza

Kishawn ‘Special K’ Simon out to avenge loss to ‘Classy’ Cassius Matthews

By Michael Benjamin He sports the sobriquet ‘Special K’ but Kishawn Simon failed to live up to that tab when he squared off with Cassius Matthews at the Mackenzie Sports Club, Linden, on Boxing Day 2013 and lost the 6 rounds welterweight affair.

Simon felt that he was ‘done in’ and stormed out of the ring while appealing for a return. Now just over two years after that fight, Simon will get the perfect opportunity to avenge that loss when he squares off with his nemesis on the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC) ‘Hostile Territory’ boxing card slated for February 27 at the Giftland Office Max Mall, Liliendaal ECD. The bout has recently been added to the card which is headlined by ex-world champion, Venezuelan, Felix Machado taking on International Boxing Federation (IBF) InterContinental Bantamweight champion, Elton Dharry in a ten rounds non-title bantamweight scrap.

A relatively young professional, Simon has

Cassius Matthews been a top amateur boxer and is bent on impressing his fans at the professional level. He has compiled 24 rounds out of 5 bouts winning 2 (one by KO) while losing 3 of them.

His knockout ratio is at a mere 20%.

Matthews goes by the sobriquet ‘Classy’ and many of his opponents will attest to his elusiveness. After 15 bouts and 89 rounds, the

lanky fighter has won 5 times but is still to register a knockout. He has lost 8 of those fights while two of them ended in draws. Among his victims are Rudolph Fraser, Shawn Pile, Dexter Breedy, Shaun Holder, Keith ‘Crusher ’, Thomas and Glenn Forde. Mathews has also gained valuable international experience (Continued on page 31)

Nikkoloi Smith and John Campbell.

Notably, in its best-ofthree final against Colts, Guardians were able to influence supporters from its community, Plaisance to come out in droves to support them. That phenomenon is likely to be continued with the stakes higher at The Road to Mecca III. “If I can get them (the team) to compete as one, I can compete with any team.

As a club, we have a different

Andrew Hercules mindset from last year. As a result of that, we are easily among the Final Four. We get better as tournaments progresses,” Hercules informed.

He highlighted that his biggest challenge is putting in some practice sessions to be fully ready for the most important competition on the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) calendar. He made it clear that Plaisance wants the ultimate prize.

t r o Sp

CONCACAF WOQC - Lady Jags lose to Soca Princesses T&T side set up semifinal date with USA on Friday

Ashley Rodrigues #9, Lady Jags Captain, battling Soca Princess Janelle Cunningham last night at the BBVA Compass Stadium.

(CONCACAF photo)

Brazil court freezes Neymar Sepp Blatter back at FIFA assets, including yacht and jet for appeal against 8-year ban Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210