Kaieteur News

Friday June 14, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 5

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

Incompetence reeks within GuySuCo DEAR EDITOR, Our Minister of Finance recently declared that Mr Raj Singh, currently acting Chairman of GuySuCo, will not be receiving a $5 million monthly salary or even a $3 million monthly salary as stated in the media, but he will be receiving a $2.5 million salary. That ought to take care of the concerns of those who thought that he was going to get $3million.

Who exactly does Ashni Singh think he is fooling?

Here again is total contempt for the opposition and the citizens of this country a betrayal of their leader Dr Jagan.

First Minister Singh was careful not to list what the other costs of being an absentee Chairman of GuySuCo would add to the woes of this cash strapped corporation.

In fact he told us that Raj Singh would be the executive chairman, but clearly this is nonsense since hecan’t be executive chairman of anything unless he is living here 365 days a year.

He then tries to obscure the picture and confuse the

public by bringing Mr Errol Hanoman into the frame by telling us that Raj Singh,who would functionally be an executive Chairman but not resident here, will be earning the same as Hanoman who was a full time Chief Executive of the corporation!

At that time the now Minister Gopaul was chairman. Was Gopaul getting $2.5 million a month?

Have we started a new series of enrichment?

Since now that we have made Jagdeo’s pals billionaires, are we now in the process of enriching Mr Ramoutar’s pals? Will this cycle of abuse never stop?

But for us to employ this part time executive chairman at a cost of $2.5 million per month, Minister Singh was careful not to mention that since he is resident abroad, we would in fact incur huge expenses to bring him here monthly, to chair the GuySuCo’s meetings estimated by the opposition to be a total package of US$25,000 a month.

This situation is a completely different situation in comparison to the

competence of Errol Hanoman who was a highly respected former Finance Director of the Corporation and who was working full time in the industry as CEO, not chairman as Mminister Singh wrongly stated at the press conference. In my previous letter I expressed my opinion that the current CEO Mr Bhim is way out of his depth in his present situation.

In view of the above let me say that Raj Singh is not worth this salary. His exposure in the sugar industry was as an industrial relations junior manager whose offices are not even situated in the same building as the other functioning Directors/Managers of the corporation.

Consequently since CEO Bhim’s comment was that “there was no cane in the fields” I don’t know which one of GuySuCo’s current directors, especially this absentee chairman, has the competence to rectify the dire situation which the industry finds itself in today.

What workable plans will be formulated to mechanise the harvesting and to

increase the yields of the canes in the fields? he says that president Ramoutar has a plan to restructure the corporation but none of us has seen it. I want to remind the public that Mr Ramotar was on the board of GuySuCo during all of the time when the corporation was being emasculated through political interference, so his plan could hardly be viable.And here we are again putting a person whose only apparent qualifications for the job, is that he is a devout PPP activist overseas!

I would like to remind the public that the two corporations which have put this nation at the brink of disaster through incompetence and corruption GPL and GuySuCo were slated by the Desmond Hoyte administration for privatisation.

Just before the 1992 elections Dr Jagan torpedoed the privatisation talks by telling the public that if he won the 1992 elections, he will not be honouring any agreements made by Hoyte to privatise GuySuCo or GPL. And I want to quote Dr

Jagan from his Independence speech in May 1995 “I have been faithful to my promise of giving you a government that is fully accountable to its electorate, free from corruption”. I wonder what he would do were he were here today to see what he has created.

I want to know from Ashni Singh’s disclosures, why this man Raj Singh needs two homes? And in what country/ s will these two homes be located. He told the press that Raj Singh is eminently qualified,”has worked in sugar for a number of years at indeed senor levels” but neglects to tell them that he really worked in the Industrial

Relations department of GuySuCo in the late 70’s early 80’s as a junior manager under D.P.Sankar and has no idea about the running of the administrative, factory or field sections of the corporation.

So the opposition is right.

Raj Singh does not have the qualifications or experience to address the problems of the corporation at this time.

GuySuCo’s problems will inevitably continue.

Tony Vieira

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Kaieteur News

Friday June 14, 2013

Friday June 14, 2013

Kaieteur News

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GPL’s critics are acting out of complete and total ignorance – CEO

By Gary Eleazar “They are acting out of complete and total ignorance…We can’t put it anyway better, they are totally ignorant of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL).”

These were the words of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GPL, Bharrat Dindyal, who yesterday in an exclusive interview with Kaieteur News fired back at critics of the power company.

“It is especially unfortunate, the aspersions emanating from the Alliance For Change camp. I don’t know who is advising them, they are so astonishingly wrong that it begs the question why aren’t they trying to get facts, why aren’t they trying to understand what is going on before talking.”

NO TAXPAYER GIFT According to Dindyal, among the incorrect notions being peddled by the combined opposition is that the money that had been transferred to the power company by government through the budget is sourced solely from taxes in the Consolidated Funds and considered “gifts.”

Dindyal said that the monies represent loans that government has sourced for GPL through agencies such as the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Venezuela under the Petrocaribe arrangement and China.

The CEO said the power company does not have to approach Parliament for money but rather could raise the money through increased tariffs. He explained, however, that each time GPL indicates a willingness to increase its tariffs, government says “no, we will make money available.”

This money, according to Dindyal, is made available by government accessing concessionary loans as the

company by itself would not be able to source the money commercially, given its financial position.

He added that even if the company were to source the money commercially it would be at 8 per cent or 10 per cent as against the one or two percent under the concessional loans that government sources.

The loans, he said, have to be and are repaid by the power company.

“The concessional loans are coming in and allowing us to invest in capital projects to reduce costs and to reduce losses importantly.”

This repayment, he stated, is reflected in the company’s annual reports each year.

Dindyal said the 2012 audited statements have been completed, and the completed annual report will soon be finalised and tabled in the National Assembly.

He pointed out that in the years where the power company records a deficit, “it doesn’t make sense to borrow money from government to repay government.”

“What we do is defer the payments; we accrue the interest and defer the payments so that the money coming from government goes straight to customers or capital projects.”

FUEL Responding to the fact that the AFC continuously makes reference to the subsidy transferred to the power company last year, Dindyal said that $6B went straight into the purchase of fuel.

“In 2012 we went to Government for operational support, we said that fuel was a burden to carry, we couldn’t carry it…We had an $8B increase in fuel from 2011 to 2012 and Parliament approved $6B.” Dindyal said that for this year the power company has asked for just $1B, taking into account the fact that the fuel prices are projected to reduce.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GPL, Bharat Dindyal “This year we asked for $1B in operational support, not $6B like we did last year.”

According to Dindyal, this is a reality seemingly not being recognized by the critics, “last year they approved $6B in operational support and this year we went for $1B…$5B less.”

COMMERCIAL LOSSES On the matter of the company failing to reduce its technical and commercial losses over the years, Dindyal said that through a loan from the IDB at least US$6.5M was put into the Unserved Areas Electrification Programme (UAEP) which saw the construction of networks for 20,000 customers, with the first phase of the project finishing one year ahead of time.

This programme targeted specifically the sore issue of commercial losses such as massive electricity theft.

He said that upon the early completion of the IDBfunded project, the Guyana Government decided not to wait and went ahead and funded Phase II of the project.

“Government basically moved ahead and provided networks for almost 22,000 customers.”

Dindyal said that recognizing that the government had already

taken on a significant portion of the works, it approached the IDB and said “the resources are there so why not dedicate some to loss reduction.”

The resources were available from the IDB, given that government went ahead and funded the second phase of the UAEP. He said that GPL approached the power company with a view to having the money diverted toward investing in technical loss reduction.

Dindyal explained that commercial losses include electricity theft and losses through defective meters among other factors.

One such factor is the fact that the company had been using an old billing system, “with people playing around with accounts in the main system…so it had billing issues, we had defective meters and you have electricity theft.”

Dindyal said that the IDB told GPL that it would also dedicate about US$6.5M to non-technical losses and a study was done by consultants out of the United Kingdom.

The consultant mapped out an investment programme for the company.

“That programme said that you need to invest in metering… need to invest in capacity building.”

He said that the capacity building related to allowing the power company to be able to raid areas where there was stealing of electricity, along with the fact that the old billing system had to be replaced.

Dindyal said that US$2.7M was expended on putting in place the new billing system that has been in use since May 2010.

“We equipped six crews with equipment and vehicles to raid in communities where people have been stealing wholesale, we introduced the ITRON meter with the

financing from IDB.”These investments, according to Dindyal, saw losses by the power company being reduced from 45 per cent to 30 per cent.

“That’s why we made that progress, because there was investment coming from the IDB.” TECHNICAL LOSSES According to Dindyal, having managed to reduce the commercial losses drastically, the IDB then indicated that GPL had moved to the point of having a system where “demand is rising constantly and you are pushing that increased power through the same system.”

This, Dindyal said, caused the technical losses to increase not just incrementally but exponentially.

According to the GPL Chief Executive, investing in the system to curb technical losses had been 30 years in the making, and it was not a lack of will or expertise but rather the resources to do it.

“I don’t know who are the people advising these parties and how they understand these issues…For the first time in the history of GEC/GPL we got US$42M to tackle technical loss reduction.”

Dindyal was referring to

the upgrade to the transmission and distribution, funded by the Chinese. He said that the greatest amount of technical loss is in the low voltage network in the 120/240 volt lines. These lines that run across the country, account for just about seven percent of the technical losses.

TOTALIGNORANCE “The investment to completely reduce this to industry standard is about US$60M. These people are totally misinformed…nothing that they say makes sense.

When they speak of bad management or the fact that the company has not been reducing losses, it’s not the willpower to do it, it’s not expertise to do it, it’s investment which they are cutting.”

The company’s CEO said “if these people sit down to understand what the issues are and what they are doing…I mean they are acting out of complete and total ignorance …we can’t put it anyway better, they are totally ignorant of the GPL.” “These naysayers have been spouting various criticisms with the expectation that persons would believe that they probably know something… they know nothing!”

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Kaieteur News

Friday June 14, 2013

Govt. should pre-pay electricity bills for stateMahaica woman’s death still baffling police owned facilities and sell properties to cut costs Investigators on the East Coast Demerara are still not ruling out foul play in the death of a De Hoop, Mahaica mother of three, Vanessa Seeram, even after a post mortem examination Wednesday.

The post mortem confirmed the cause of death as asphyxiation due to compression injuries to the neck. It did not indicate if the injuries were consistent with the hanging of a person.

However, investigators are still no closer to determining definitively whether the woman took her own life or was manually strangled by someone else.

Seeram’s husband had told police that he went home around 22:00 hours on Saturday and found that she had hanged herself with her son’s leather belt.

He was detained after investigators and the dead woman’s relatives raised suspicions about the position of her body when she was first discovered. Seeram was sitting in a chair with one end of the belt tightly wrapped around her neck and the other end tied to a wooden bed post leg. Perhaps the person most

convinced that Seeram did not take her own life is her brother, Ganesh Maye.

“When I go in, I see me sister sitting on a chair with all she tongue out of she mouth. I turn to de police and say officer dis is a murder’,” he had told this newspaper last Sunday.

“I want even the public come and tell me dat me sister hang she self, that is impossible. She can’t hang she self like dat; sit down in a chair with de belt tie pon a bed foot below she neck,” Maye added.

A police source who spoke to this newspaper following Wednesday’s post mortem examination said that although the position in which the woman was found suggests that she did not take her own life, investigators cannot say for sure if Seeram was murdered. “It’s very hard to tell if she really killed herself,” the source said. The source said that investigators will prepare a report on the matter and seek the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

In the meantime they have placed Seeram’s husband on station bail.

- AFC member Government continued to pile pressure on the Opposition Wednesday to reverse a $5.2B budget cut to the State’s power company but the reasons being given for a proposed 26.7% tariff hike on consumers’ bills have come under fire.

The Private Sector Commission (PSC) and Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) called on the Opposition to restore the monies. However, the Opposition is sticking to its guns. A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) insisted that the proposed hike is unjustifiable and brazen.

The 10-party coalition hinted that it may be ready for talks, but good sense must prevail.

“The Government of Guyana and GPL are playing a dangerous game with the future of our people. A Partnership for National Unity calls for good sense to prevail before any decision is made to increase electricity rates at this time.”

APNU said that the hike comes at a time when an increasing number of Guyanese are suffering from the “ravages of rising poverty levels” from the “failing policies” of the Administration.

“Guyanese should not be asked to continue to pay for the inefficiencies of GPL, primarily as the result

Sasenarine Singh of poor management and endemic levels of corruption within the corporation.”

APNU made it clear that during the debate of the 2012 National Budget, the Opposition requested that GPL should submit a credible management plan to justify the release of the subsidy which they were asking for.

“This was never submitted by GPL and, as a consequence, a similar condition was set for the release of the subsidy requested in the 2013 National Budget.

Therefore, the claim that the Opposition has arbitrarily withheld the requested sub s i d y i s a d e l i b e r a t e misrepresentation.”

On Saturday, GPL said that as a result of $7.8B in losses last year from high fuel prices, it is now being forced to implement a 26.7% increase on customers, effective last

month. However, the Public Utilities Commission, w h i c h regulates GPL, indicated that it had not received any applications for the increase as of Monday.

The Alliance For Change (AFC), which together with APNU, controls a one-seat voting majority in the National Assembly, said over the weekend that it was prepared to fight the increase during any public hearing held

by PUC. The Opposition parties also argued that GPL, in upping pressure to have the $5.2B restored, deliberately linked th e i r l o s s e s t o a number of capital projects for which the monies were intended.

As a matter of fact, says AFC’s financial analyst, Sasenarine Singh, GPL’s arguments over the fuel increases, one of GPL’s biggest expenses, is questionable, as indications are that prices have gone down this year, as compared to 2012, allowing the company to save $1.5B from this projected spending.

GPL’s technical and commercial losses have also been coming under severe criticism.

The technical losses are caused from the aging transmission lines and leaking equipment, like transformers.

Nontechnical or commercial losses are mainly theft.

In a letter to the editor p u b l i s h e d o n Tu e s d a y, Singh pointed out that despite spending b i l l i o n s , G P L failed to make a dent in reducing theft which stayed stagnant at an alarming 17%, affecting the c o m p a n y ’s income significantly.

“GPL is clearly not serious on this issue since from all appearances they seem to be going after the marginal thieves when the real “fat cats” continue to burn their air conditioners and high powered security l i g h t s 2 4 h o u r s a d a y, compliments of free GPL

electricity.”

Singh called on government to seriously think about advancing electricity charged to GPL to ease the company’s financial woes.

He also suggested that one of the ways that GPL can also seriously consider cutting costs is selling off properties in the city and consolidating all of its operations at Garden of Eden.

Singh advised that to reduce staffing and other logistical expenses, Western Union and the Post Office can easily be used with a small sub-office at Sophia and Kingston, for those who really want to deal directly with GPL. “The sale of those buildings will reap several hundreds of millions that can be injected into GPL immediately.

The Government can also use the resources from NICIL and Lotto Funds to construct a “GRA-type building” at Garden of Eden and treat that as a further capital contribution to GPL.” According to Singh, an e x a m i n a t i o n o f G P L’s figures would show that GPL had an increase in its cash and cash equivalent in 2012 of some G$33 million as compared to a drain on its bank account of some G$2.9 billion in 2011.

“If there was a year to request tariff increases, it was 2011, when GPL bled billions.

However, as per standard operating practice, politics overwhelmed commercial realism in the Government in 2011.

Now they are using politics again to drive fear into the people with no foundation of commercial realism.”

Singh said that in addition to the $6 billion cash injection into GPL in 2012, the people also injected some $5B in new cash in 2013, but yet is now “asking for an indefensible 26.7%”. “If this is not the action of a serial bully, then what is?”

Friday June 14, 2013

Kaieteur News

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Who will prosecute Rodney’s murderers?

It does not require a Commission of Inquiry (COI) to determine who was culpable and complicit in the assassination of Dr. Walter Rodney. The late historian was assassinated by the Forbes Burnham administration.

A commission of inquiry is not necessary to assign culpability. The hands of the PNC are indelibly stained by the murder of the former coleader of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA). But Rodney’s was consistently betrayed after his death.

At his funeral, the nail of political retreat was driven into Rodney’s coffin when the party backpedaled in the face of Burnham’s murderous reign. The second betrayal took place when the party succumbed to geopolitical fatalism after the Grenada invasion. The WPA , fearful of the Americans, opted to abandon the Marxist outlook of Rodney and paradoxically changed the party’s ideology to Rodneyite.

The third betrayal took place just after the 25th anniversary of Rodney’s murder. It was at that event that the wife of Walter Rodney called for closure to be brought to her husband’s death. The then Jagdeo administration decided to bring closure through a commission of inquiry.

The government, conscious that the WPA had long assumed a monopoly on the issues of Walter Rodney, and wishing to avoid a controversy over the Terms of Reference (TOR), asked the party to assist in preparing the TOR for the proposed commission of inquiry.

That decision immediately placed the WPA in a quandary, because at the time they were seeking a Big Tent coalition with the PNCR. To therefore avoid embarrassing

the PNCR and threatening the Big Tent, the party procrastinated in developing the TOR. That was the third betrayal One year after, the WPA seemed to have forgotten the anniversary of Rodney and last-minute arrangements had to be made for a commemorative event. That was the fourth betrayal.

But nothing of course could match what would follow. In order to get into the political bed with the PNCR, certain confessions were made by the WPA without asking the PNCR to admit to its culpability in the death of Rodney. This was the unkindest cut of all, and the fifth betrayal of Rodney.

But now those confessions have been called into question following the most amazing disclosures in a recent book about Rodney where it was claimed that just before his death he was depressed because he was not given any assistance in Africa where he had gone just before his death.

The ultimate responsibility for bringing closure to the death of Rodney resided with the Jagdeo administration. That administration did not honour its promise of the COI in the face of the machinations within the WPA which would have been placed in a most difficult position of having to prosecute the very party with which it has entering into an alliance.

Donald Ramotar has now decided to bring closure to the issue. But he has an unenviable reputation of appointing committees that do not seem to get going. It is hoped that this promise of an International COI does not suffer the same fate as the tax reform committee and the many other committees which were to be established following the incidents in Linden, one year ago.

The PPP has of recent been blamed for not establishing a COI into the death of Rodney. And it acted strangely in not investigating how the police files on Rodney could not be found, and then later reappeared when the ICJ team came to Guyana just after the PPP’s electoral victory of 1992.

Afterwards, the son of Walter Rodney went on a hunger strike to demand an inquiry into the death of his father.

The Jagan administration was placed in a difficult situation because the man believed responsible for the murder, Gregory Smith,

resided in French Guiana, a country whose laws would not permit the extradition of any prisoner to a country where the death penalty still existed. As such, there was little chance of having Smith extradited to Guyana for an inquiry or even a murder charge.

The PPP did, however, file charges against Smith, a fact that is underplayed in the revisionist attempt to place failure to have a COI at the feet of the PPP. An arrest warrant was issued for Smith, but could never be served on Smith because of the extradition laws of French

Guiana. Having filed murder charges, the Cheddi Jagan administration could not have then turned around and asked for a COI to determine who was culpable. That would have been in contradiction to the murder charge which assumed that Smith was responsible for the death of Rodney. The matter thus remained comatose until the request at the 25th anniversary celebrations for closure to be brought to Rodney’s death.

There are many who feel that having the COI now would be unproductive. In fact even the WPA is expressing some concerns as

to what can be achieved after 33 years. It is to be seen how loyal the WPA is to Rodney’s memory and this will be determined by the degree of resoluteness with which they will prosecute, in the COI, those whom they believe are responsible for Rodney’s murder.

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Kaieteur News

Friday June 14, 2013

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Shall I ask Uncle Donald to pay for my eye operation?

I left for New Amsterdam in the wee hours of Wednesday morning to have an eye operation because my failing sight has returned. My personal eye doctor, after an intense examination recommended surgery outside of Guyana because of the complex nature of the operation. It wasn’t good news. The last time was January 2000 and Dr. George Norton advised immediate surgery in Trinidad.

It is sad that after 47 years of Independence, Trinidad, Barbados and Jamaica offer certain types of eye surgery

that cannot be done here and there are no prospects that such technology will arrive in Guyana anytime soon.

I read a few years back that Roger Luncheon went abroad to seek attention for his eye problem. As for my prospects, I may have to ask Uncle Donald as the President is referred to in certain columns in this newspaper, to pay for the medical cost, as Mr. Jagdeo did for then Opposition Leader, Robert Corbin (the published figure by GINA was $10 million).

But then again, I am not

an opposition leader and in this country one has to remember what Martin Carter wrote, that a mouth is muzzled by the food it eats. But then again, who says Uncle Donald would approve State payment for my operation?

I haven’t been to New Amsterdam a long time; just passing through during the election season in 2011. After I left my doctor, I decided to spend time checking out New Amsterdam. It is in a vastly different state from when I would visit often during my teaching days at the Berbice campus of UG. It is clear for

anyone to see that the closure of the ferry service and the location of the bridge have devastated the town. I felt both sad and annoyed at what New Amsterdam looks like today.

All over Guyana you see the debris of sick politics. All over this country you see the social and moral decay that political and ethnic division brings.

Quite a number of complaints came my way. I was asked not to leave New Amsterdam without some attempt at human rights intervention. A group of

Late delivery of drainage pumps…

Govt. to blame, not contractor – Agri Minister Government is responsible for the late delivery of several components of the drainage pumps from India by Surendra Engineering under a US$4 million contract inked two years ago, according to Agriculture Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy.

During a brief interview with media operatives yesterday the Minister said, “Six (pumps) are here. The other eight, the engines are all delivered… that is the major part. The pump part was tested on the manufacturing side.”

The delivery of the pumps will be made possible with Government’s “go ahead”.

With the onsite tests completed in India, the pumps are expected to be delivered to Guyana by this month-end, depending on shipping arrangements.

In April, the Minister said that tenders for the project were opened in Guyana and

Agriculture Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy in India, with two companies submitting bids in 2011.

However, the contract only became operational in March 2012 and was expected to end one year later. It did not. Instead Government granted a onemonth extension.

However, Dr. Ramsammy said that the contractor is not

responsi b l e for not satisfying the one-month extension which was over a month ago.

“The y h a v e b e e n telling us they are ready to ship. We were late in going for the test and that is for various reasons, because I didn’t just want the Ministry’s engineer to go, so I had invited a private engineer to go.”

A c c o r d i n g t o D r.

R a m s a m m y, t h o u g h i t required fixing the trip to suit the private engineer ’s schedule, it was important for him to be part of the team that went to India to inspect the pumps because of his previous knowledge of the pumps at the Dawa Pump Station.

In addition, after the team returned from India it took the Ministry a couple of weeks to evaluate the test results before the “go ahead” to ship was finalised.

When all the components for the drainage pumps arrive in Guyana, the contract with Surendra Engineering will conclude. Installation of the pumps at the various stations is the next step the Ministry is tasked with.

Ramsammy noted that by August the Ministry is hoping to conclude installation. The contracts for the erection of pump houses have been awarded, with some already being constructed.

Together with the assets of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), the country would be boasting a capacity of almost 100 pumps, inclusive of both fixed and mobile, officials of the Agriculture Ministry had said last year.

parents told me there are horror stories at New Amsterdam Multilateral School.

I was moved by the revelation that in the coming days, students have to pay seven hundred dollars for the test paper that will be laid on their desks. I was speechless, but I know Guyana is a country where the most sinister jumbie tales exist in a vortex of bestial realities.

Parents told me they have to fork out money for all types of projects at the school. I was shown a letter sent to all parents asking for financial assistance whenever circumstances dictate.

The headmaster, Mr. Dhanraj, informed me that such a letter may have been written during the tenure of h i s p r e d e c e s s o r, M r s .

Jackie Benn, so that is not a matter for him to deal with.

As to the question of parents having to finance various ventures, he agreed that a lawn mower was paid for with parents’ money and students have to pay $700 for test papers, but he sought safety in the fact that those were decisions made by the P a r e n t / Te a c h e r Association, and that he cannot interfere with decisions of that body.

Headmaster Dhanraj recommended that I talk to the Chairman of the PTA, Pastor Charles.

I went to speak to the holy man at his church on Main Street. He told me at a PTA meeting attended by over 400 parents, that it was agreed that parents would finance essential needs of the school. He cited a

Frederick Kissoon hypothetical example of air-conditioning if necessary. He indicated that he agrees with the charge for the exam sheets.

In Guyana, seven-storey buildings are going up all over the territory and we are building a Marriott Hotel, but students have to pay for their exam sheets.

I was informed that this venality also obtains in Georgetown schools.

Berbicians complained to me that patients and visitors cannot use the main gate of the new Berbice Hospital. They have to walk several blocks and enter through the back gate. We accompanied a patient, but the guard turned all of us away.

The entrance is only for doctors and their vehicles.

I spoke to Dr. Mahadeo, CEO of the Berbice Regional Health Authority.

He said that decision was taken after there were two vehicular accidents outside the gate.

We had lunch at New Amsterdam Qik Serve where we were treated with pleasurable courtesy. I met an attendant with a gold tooth that was shining brightly. I told her I came to New Amsterdam to save my eyes, but her tooth was dazzling my eyes. She said, “Freddie, when you go back to Georgetown write about it.”

Well I am doing so now.

Dem boys seh...

Everybody begging Donald When de opposition decide to cut de money to GPL dem think that dem was hurting de power company. Dem didn’t know bout de backlash. Donald tell dem fuh raise de tariff.

Well dem boys never hear people holler suh hard. De private sector holler; de housewife holler and de man who thiefing lights holler.

Donald sit down and wait. Before you know it, de opposition call fuh a meeting.

Then dem beg. Dem promise Donald that dem gun put back wha dem cut if he get GPL fuh avoid raising de rates. City Hall beg first because GPL decide that it gun cut de lights to de market.

Dem boys seh that even when dem got lights, people thiefing in de market.

Imagine wha gun happen when de lights cut in de market.

Then GPL decide that dem gun cut de power to de Shelter Belt. Well that cause trouble. When dem got water buildings does burn down. Imagine wha gun happen when dem don’t have water.

Dem boys seh that de opposition tek

dem things into consideration and promise Donald to give back de money that dem cut from de budget.

If only Bobby and Bharrat and Brazzy can give back money this country gun be a better place. All de money from NICIL woulda pay light bill fuh de whole country even if de opposition did cut de whole budget.

Dem boys waiting to see if GPL gun ask de people who own de Marriott o pay dem bill same way how dem ask Hammy to pay de bill.

And dem boys seh that dem waiting to see if dem shop gun full fuh Father’s Day. Wid two days to go and nobody ain’t buying nutten. Is like dem Father ain’t got value. Banks and DDL set up some hamper but de fathers got to pay fuh dem.

Suh is two set of spending. Dem fathers had to spend fuh Mother’s Day and now dem got to spend fuh Father’s Day. Some people didn’t have to spend though.

Talk half and check out de shopping.

Friday June 14, 2013

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Friday June 14, 2013

Ex-Coast Guard ranks trial…

Colleague’s statement puts Hart as “mastermind”

By Latoya Giles A caution statement which ex-Coast Guard rank Deon Greenidge gave to the police, where he said that it was Sherwin Hart who pushed Dweive Kant Ramdass overboard, and gave him along with Devon Gordon several millions of dollars to “shut up”, was read to the members of the jury yesterday.

Greenidge, Hart and Gordon are jointly charged with the 2009 murder of Bartica gold miner Dweive Kant Ramdass.

The aforementioned statement was read in court by police witness Sergeant Suraj Singh.

Singh told the court yesterday that at the time of the murder he was stationed at the Criminal Investigation Department, Eve Leary. The witness explained that he helped with the investigation of the matter.

The witness told the court that his superior Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Trevor Reid, received certain information and they travelled to La Grange Police Station, at about 20:45 hrs, on August 20, 2009. Singh said that while at the station, he received further information from ASP Reid. He said that as a result of that information he interviewed Shawn Ageday, the brother of Sherwin Hart.

Singh said that later that night, he, along with ASP Reid and Corporal Rodwell Saraboo, left La Grange station and went to the Leonora station. While there, Singh said he noticed ASP Reid speaking to Deputy Superintendent of Police Terrance Paul. The witness said that Reid told him something, which was not revealed to the court.

Afterwards Singh said that he along with Reid among others left the Leonora Police Station with the number three accused Deon Greenidge.

The court heard from the witness that it was Greenidge who led the officers to Lot 166 La Penitence, Georgetown.

Once arriving at the house, Singh said that in the presence of the officers and Greenidge, ASP Reid spoke to one Yvonne Beckles, Greenidge’s mother.

According to Singh, it was ASP Reid who told the mother that he had information that she received some 5.5 million dollars from her son while being at Parika, on August 20, 2009. Singh said that the woman was told the money was stolen from Ramdass.

The court further heard how the woman went inside of her home and brought out a brown “sugar bag”. Singh said he observed that the bag was somewhat bulky and wire had been placed at the top of the bag so as to keep it closed.

Dweive Kant Ramdass He said that the bag was opened and there was a black jersey at the top. The witness stated that the jersey was removed and there it was discovered that the bag contained a quantity of thousand dollar bills, Guyana currency.

Singh said that ASP Reid told the woman something and arrested her and took possession of the bag. They later returned to the CID with Greenidge and his mother.

He said that it was about 01:30hrs, at CID, that Reid again told him something and he moved over to a desk. After sitting, Singh said he invited Greenidge who was on the prisoner’s bench to come over to his desk. He said that he told Greenidge that they had information that on August 20, at Caiman Hole, he along with Hart and Gordon killed Ramdass.

Singh said that Greenidge was cautioned that he did not have to say anything, but if he wished it could be written into evidence. Singh said that at that point it was Greenidge who said “officer ah gun tell

yuh everything” and opted to make a statement.

In the presence of Sergeant Singh and Corporal Saraboo, Greenidge gave the statement. In the statement which was read to the jury, Greenidge said that on the day in question, he was stationed at Fort Island. It was stated that it was LR Hart who came with Gordon, to meet him at the base.

Greenidge in his statement said that he was told by Hart that they were “going and patrol”, so I should “suit up”. Greenidge said he uplifted a M70 rifle with 90 rounds of ammunition.

Greenidge said that they joined their Coast Guard RC 12 boat which had a 200HP outboard engine, and it was LR Hart who was the driver and in charge.

Whilst going to Parika, Greenidge said they began to stop boats that were heading in the direction of Bartica and conducted searches. He said everything was good with the first boat they stopped. After that search, Greenidge said they saw another boat with two passengers who were not wearing life jackets. In the statement, Greenidge said that they ordered the boat back and Hart told him and Gordon to search and they complied.

During this time, the LR Hart was talking to the captain. Hart subsequently went and started talking to an East Indian man. Greenidge in his statement said that “the man was medium built and about five feet- five inches in height, fair in complexion, and about 160 pounds. The man had a low haircut… I average

his age about 25 to 30 years.

This man had a round face with mustache; he was also wearing a shades.”

Greenidge noted that the man had a carton box sealed with tape and a haversack in his possession.

The witness continued to read the statement which said that after they were finish searching, Hart told him and Gordon to let them give the man a drop to Bonasika, which is in the Essequibo River. Greenidge said that other passengers saw when the man went to the Coast Guard boat. Hart drove off the boat and headed up the Essequibo River. The jury heard that when the trio passed Fort Island, Hart stopped the boat.

Greenidge said that he was instructed to search the box by Hart to see if it had any money.

“I whipped open the box and saw money.”

The jury further heard that Greenidge told Hart that the box had money.

Greenidge’s statements noted that he heard Ramdass ask what the search was for, and about two to three seconds later, he heard Hart push the man overboard. “I didn’t look to see if the man was swimming or not and LR Hart drove the boat to Fort Island.”

While at Fort Island, Greenidge said that he was told by Hart to take out the box and carry it to the barrack room and he complied. In the room there were no other ranks and Hart then parted the money in three shares, equally. “I get about 11 parcels. I didn’t get to count

the money it was all in 1000 bills. I packed the money and cover it with a jersey, and I took wire to secure it since the zip spoil. I called my mother from Fort Island and told her to come and collect the bag. I didn’t tell her what was in the bag.” The witness went on to read the statement telling the jury that Greenidge, Hart and Gordon went back to Parika, where he reached his mother and gave her the money. He instructed his mother to “keep it and don’t open it, only give me. The police arrest me and I took them at the house, the bag was still secure.”

Greenidge said he told ranks that he “didn’t go to do it” but it was Hart who was giving the instructions. The LR Hart told me that if anyone asked about Ramdass I should tell them that he left in another boat at Bonasika.

Greenidge in his statement said that Hart told them, that it was a secret and the money was for them to shut their mouths.

Under cross examination by attorney at law Latchmie Rahamat, the suggestion was put to Singh that he might be deliberately removing himself from certain aspects of the investigation.

The suggestion was strongly denied by the witness.

Rahamat sought to question Singh about allegations of beatings, something the witness said he knew nothing about. Yesterday also Superintendent of Police Terrance Paul also gave evidence. Paul’s evidence was mainly about him witnessing when former officer Dereck Foo took a statement from Hart. Paul maintained that the statement was given freely and without any inducement. The witness was ordered to bring a station charge sheet, which the defence counsel requested.

Friday June 14, 2013

Kaieteur News

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Opposition votes down “Rohee’s Bills”

By Gary Eleazar The Combined Opposition last evening in another show of defiance against Home Affairs Minister, Clement Rohee, voted down four pieces of proposed legislative amendments including the renaming of the Guyana Police Force to that of the Guyana Police Service.

“The struggle goes on,” lamented Rohee, as the Opposition defeated Bill after Bill that had been put up for debate and possible passage when the National Assembly met yesterday.

Leader of the Opposition Brigadier (ret’d) David Granger, subsequently told media operatives that ever since July last year, the Combined Opposition had taken a stance of ‘no confidence ‘against the Minister of Home Affairs. He said that the resolution in that motion approved by the majority in the House, called on the President to revoke Rohee’s appointment, but this was not done.

Responding to the fact that the Combined Opposition had supported the budgetary allocations for the Home Affairs Minister, Granger said that APNU decided not to withhold support, “so as to not affect the wellbeing of ordinary people or the servicemen”.

He maintained however that “we will not support any measures brought by Rohee.”

The Home Affairs Minister after a number of previous deferrals, yesterday put up for debate the

Home Affairs Minister, Clement Rohee “Evidence (Amendment) Bill, the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill, the Fire Service (Change of Name) Bill as well as the Police (Change of Name) Bill.

The Bills were defeated with no Opposition member making any contribution to the debates, but Rohee vowed that following the next elections, the Bills will be reintroduced.

Under the Parliamentary Standing Orders, as long as a Bill has been defeated, it may not be reintroduced to the House for consideration, until the next Parliament that would be constituted following Regional and General Elections.

The Minister, in introducing the Police name change Bill to the House, said it formed part of the reform process of the Guyana Police Force, and as he wrapped up his presentation to the debate on that Bill, declared that the reform within the organization will continue despite the Opposition’s

stance.

“Notwithstanding what they think that they have in terms of support in the Police Force, this will send a very troubling signal to this country…A political tug-owar over the Police Force is unnecessary,” said Rohee as he called the negative stance a “don’t kay a damn position”.

The Bill represented the first time in the 173-year history of the Guyana Police Force that an attempt was made to change its name to that of a Police Service in keeping with its mandate of Service and Protection. He opined that the political opposition will be condemned by history rather than absolved by it for the stance it has taken.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, who argued vociferously in support of the passage of the legislation, reminded the House that the decision to change the name of the Force has been repeated by a number of bodies, and had even been documented in Disciplined Services Commission Report.

The Opposition Leader had served on the Commission.

Nandlall told the House that all of them had made representation to the Commission and had advocated for the name change.

These, he said, included the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), which serves as the largest bloc of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), the Human Rights Commission and ACDA, among the

numerous other bodies.

He said that all and sundry that have called for investigations into police brutality and extra-judicial killings, have advocated among the menu of measures for a reform of the Police Force, and to have its name changed to a Police Service.

The name change, he said, was in response to calls for making the force a more service-oriented institution.

Nandlall argued that it was not a mere name change, but serves as a catalyst for a philosophy of a change of character. The Combined Opposition also voted against the passage of the amendments to change the name of the Guyana Fire Service to that of the Guyana Fire Service and Rescue Brigade.

Rohee called the Opposition’s position on refusing this name change “heartless.”

He said that it was a grave injustice, adding that the Fire

Service serves a humanitarian purpose.

Rohee added that during the Parliamentary Budgetary process, money was approved for the purchase of four ambulances and this served as the beginning of the process to resuscitate the Ambulance Brigade of the Fire Service.

“To treat the Guyana Fire Service in the mode as the previous Bills would be a grave injustice,” said Rohee.

The Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill was also voted down by

the Combined Opposition.

Rohee in presenting that Bill to the House said that the amendment looked to address the use of vehicles in the commission of crimes.

He spoke to the fact that there are incidents of drive-by shootings, robberies and other such acts to the point where criminologists have deemed vehicles in certain incidents as weapons.

Under the proposed amendments, it would have also created a new offence, in that it would have (Continued on page 14)

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Kaieteur News

NAACIE reiterates call for immediate GPL probe in light of tariff hike From page 6 technical aspect of their operations and theft, but he believes that the management needs to take some of the blame since he believes that the three components has led to the current position of the electricity company.

The union secretary was of that opinion based on the figures and percentage in losses admitted by GPL, it shows that much needs to be done to turn the c o m p a n y’s operations around. Joseph charged that GPL is trying to put new systems in place by replacing

experienced staff with inexperienced ones and this has facilitated the downhill position that grips the company.

NAACI E h a d b e e n calling for the investigation since a row between the union and the power company sparked protests earlier this year, with workers across the country downing tools and refusing to work unless they were given a raise of pay.

They claimed that GPL had dishonoured a 2001 collective bargaining agreement and an

arbitration tribunal had to be called, resulting in workers receiving the benefit of the doubt.

Apart from that, Joseph had stated that “They (opposition) should not just give you (GPL) and you spend.”

He said, “There must be an investigation because we know… we have evidence that not all the money is well spent.”

Opposition members have also aired their concerns that mismanagement is playing a major role in the hurdles GPL face.

Opposition votes down...

From page 13 been mandatory to report the loss or theft of a vehicle within seven days or be liable to a fine.

He said that on many occasi o n s , persons would rent their vehicles for the purpose of committing crimes but would later argue that their vehicles had been stolen.

“The Bill seeks to capture the challenges of vehicles being used in the commission of a crime and block all possible loopholes in the laws that

are used by persons to prevent those who use a vehicle from facing the full force of the law.”

The Evidence (Amendment) Bill was also met with a negative vote.

Rohee on this occasion said that it sought to expand the admission of categories of evidence to cater for advances in the field of science and technology.

Had the Bill been approved by the House, it would have sought to allow for a wider bracket of certificates and reports to

be tendered as evidence, including ballistics and fingerprints, as well as those related to fuel, poisons and noxious substances, among others.

The provisions would have also removed the need for admission of the reports and certificates without the presence and testimony of the various experts.

Nandlall in his presentation to that debate said that it would have allowed “to bring speed to a very slothful judicial system.”

Friday June 14, 2013

GPHC maternal death...

Findings to be made public - Health Minister The findings of the recent maternal death at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) will be revealed to the public as part of a legislative mandate.

This is according to Minister of Health, Dr Bheri Ramsaran, who revealed yesterday that he has been in contact with Secretary to the Expert Committee charged with reviewing the findings and making relevant recommendations.

According to a s t a t ement issued by the GPHC, a completed report into the death of Luan Rodney has been sent to the Ministry of Health, which is expected to take necessary action. The report has since gained the attention of the Office of the Chief Medical Officer and the Cabinet-appointed Expert Committee which will review all documents and make relevant recommendations within a specified time.

Accor d i n g t o t h e Minister, he has been told that the Expert Committee is currently adding the final touches to its report into the incident and a copy will soon be gaining his attention.

He noted that the investigations are being done according to the law and following such undertakings the findings will be made public as is recommended by law. But although an

Dead: Luan Rodney investigation and a resulting report have been completed, the dead woman’s husband, Nigel Rodney, is yet to get an update from officials at the hospital.

He disclosed yesterday that hospital officials had assured him that they would update him about the circumstances. “I was waiting on these people all the time for some word...but they are doing just what I expected...But I don’t intend this to just vanish into thin air,” the man said during an interview with this publication. Post mortem examinations into his wife and baby’s death were inconclusive, but Nigel Rodney said that a Cuban Pathologist told him last week that further answers should be available within 10 days.

“All I want is closure...All I want is for them to tell me plainly is what really went wrong to leave me without my wife and baby today.” The still distraught man, who buried his wife and baby daughter in a single casket on Monday, said that he is currently “taking things one day at a time”.

He added too that he does not think he would have made it had he not been a church-going man.

Rodney’s wife of six years, died in the maternity section of the hospital last week Tuesday. She was admitted one day earlier to deliver her second child.

However, there are reports t h a t n egligence was a major contributory factor to her demise since it is alleged that she was not closely monitored despite being administered a pill to induce labour. Luan Rodney reportedly suffered a ruptured uterus and there are reports that the baby was too big to be delivered naturally.

A patient occupying a bed close to the now dead woman revealed that although she alerted a nurse to the woman’s developing situation on at least two o c c a s i o n s , t h e nurse on duty did not take action until she was told that the woman was bleeding.

Friday June 14, 2013

Kaieteur News

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Depletion of fishing stock targeted in new management plan

By Keeran Danny Reversing Guyana’s depleting marine stock would require periodic assessments of stock levels as outlined in the Fisheries Department’s new Management Plan 20132018, says Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, Agriculture Minister.

He attributed overfishing as the primary reason for the depleting fish stock, which fishermen, without any scientific knowledge, have observed and brought to his attention. As such, he stressed, there needs to be an effective system in place to maintain the stock since fishing is an extensive economic operation, with the sea having enormous resources.

“It is unlike an aquaculture farm where we can restock, and therefore we have to ensure we don’t remove fishing beyond its natural propagation. If we are removing faster than it can be propagated, it is a resource that can be depleted… then any country that depends on that industry in a significant way is going to be affected,” the Minister declared.

A d d r e s s i n g

participants of the “Stakeholders Validation Wo r k s h o p ” yesterday at Grand Coastal Inn, Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara, where the final draft of the Management Plan was being discussed, Dr. Ramsammy said that the depletion of the important resource is a threat to Guyana’s economic viability.

“We have to have fishing done in a manner that prevents the depletion of that resource.

There will need to be periodic assessments of the marine stock and I am glad to see that it in fact is included in the Management Plan.”

The Minister emphasised that there are active programmes between Guyana and CARICOM looking at stock assessment in the marine environment.

Those projects have been in place for some time and he expressed hope that they would accelerate.

According to Dr. Ramsammy, there are some measures in place locally to address the decreasing stock level. For instance, the Guyana Trawler Owners’ Association has periods where there is zero activity and this is to ensure that the fish stock is not under

constant stress.

“Every country, if it has an organised industry, must address the challenge of overfishing …Thank those trawle r a s s o c i a t i o n a n d entrepreneurs who have worked with us…Thank them for agreeing that we can’t keep issuing licences, we have to restrict the licences so that we do not cause overfishing, in terms of the environment.”

C u r r e n t l y, G u y a n a produces more fish than it can consume and the excess is exported.

Without any options the country needs to organise its fishing industry to meet the rigid requirements of countries that import local marine products.

“Fishing assumes its economic and social importance because most of what we produce is exported. In order to be part of the export and food security solution of the Region, and of the world, we have to be part of an organised system,” the Minister said.

He stressed that fishing in Guyana has long moved away from “villag e r s fishing” to being part of CARICOM, which also has a draft policy that would have to be adopted and

used. Because Guyana is part of CARICOM, he stated, the Management Plan should be consistent with the Common Fishing Policy in the Caribbean.

Dr. Ramsammy added that for Guyana to be part of an organised global system it must ensure that the local fishing industry is part of global efforts to prevent illicit, unregulated and unreported fishing.

“We have to be ready to move on from our historically ad hoc systems to a more formal system…the licencing requirements and reporting requirements must all be in place if we are to be part of this global system.”

Emphasising the rigidity of the overseas market, Ramsammy said that the United States of America is finalizing its new food regulations.

Foods, whether processed or non-processed, entering the USA, would have a quantum leap in terms of rigidity as of January 2014. Therefore, some products would not be

allowed into that market unless and until they reach a certain requirement.

Minister Ramsammy related that the European Union and Canadian markets already have stiff requirements and regulations. “Just in case people don’t know why we need to organise the industry and have rules and regulations, I hope now you know. It is not an option we have.” According to Chief

Fisheries Officer Denzil Roberts, the Management Plan was developed through consultations, and was made possible through the EUACP Fish II project.

He said that the workshop would focus on discussing the plan with the aim of finalising it. The Fisheries Department will be implementing the plan and expect that it will have a significant impact on the industry.

Teen ran going...

From page 11 propeller”. The still grieving aunt said that her worst fears were confirmed when she received another call which gave a full and gruesome description of the scene and the state of her niece’s body.

The aunt made mention that Joseph went into the interior with “a big woman” to work, but this was not the first time she had taken the trip to the destination.

When asked what sort of work she did in the mining district, the aunt said “All we

know is that she use to go there and work, we don’t have any idea of what work she use to do. Raquel was not somebody who use to tell people her business”.

The aunt explained that Joseph was the fourth of 10 siblings who resided with their grandmother in Georgetown, before she moved to Timehri to live with her. The woman said that after awhile the teen moved in with her father who resides in Berbice and would visit Timehri “now and then”.

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Friday June 14, 2013

City Hall remains lit as parties reach resolution on $B light bill

By Zena Henry Mayor of Georgetown Hamilton Green said at a press briefing yesterday that City Hall will remain lit as parties from the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) and the Georgetown Municipality were able to reach a resolution over an excessive $1B light bill owed for electricity.

The parties had decided to meet on Wednesday to discuss the colossal sum owed by City Hall. The Council wanted to ascertain whether the huge bill was the actual amount owed to GPL, while the power company threatened to disconnect City Hall because no discourse was being kept as it related to payment of outstanding bills.

Mayor Green told the media that the entities agreed to have an exchange of cheques and to re-examine the financial state of accounts given by GPL. The chairman of the Council’s Finance Committee agreed to send a draft to GPL to confirm the result of what was discussed at the meeting, Green said. He

continued that taxes owed to the Council by GPL would be taken as payments for electricity.

Chief Executive Officer of GPL, Bharat Dindyal, told Kaieteur News on Wednesday that GPL and City Hall have come to an understanding on the way forward with bill payments. He said both sides stated their cases, and agreements were made, noting that it was explained to the Council how the billion-dollar bill arose; that is, of the 58 Council accounts, while a payment plan was looked at.

He added that the Council had been paying $7M a month which is half of the Council’s monthly electricity bill.

The two entities will also continue a cheque exchange system, where for taxes owed to the Council, it would be deducted as electricity payments, Dindyal asserted.

The CEO also clarified that while it was mentioned that GPL owed the Council taxes, it was shown to Council officials - at the meeting - that tax payments were up-to-

date, with the power company only owing for the year 2013 some $35M, which would go towards electricity payments.

Mayor Green confirmed this at yesterday’s press conference.

Dindyal said it is now with the Council to finalise its position on what was discussed and to get back to the power company. Another meeting of the two entities is expected next Friday.

As it relates the colossal electricity bill that had Council officials scampering for a resolution before a blackout by weekend, GPL said the Town Clerk (ag) was not in talks with the company.

Councilors had expressed surprise on Monday when the electricity bill came, since Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase- Green said that on numerous occasions the Town Clerk (ag) Carol Sooba, expressed that, ‘she was dealing with the matter at another level,’ when asked for an update on GPL payments.

A response on the issue from the power company revealed that this was not

City Mayor Hamilton Green the case. Dindyal told Kaieteur News yesterday that he was not aware of the current Town Clerk contacting the power company as it pertains to keeping correspondence over the C o u n c i l ’s outstanding electricity bills.

He said that the Town Clerk was present at Wednesday’s meeting, but made no representation that she had been

corresponding with the c o m p a n y. H e s a i d a ny ‘talks had to be outside of GPL, but not with the company.” Mayor Green made the same assertion.

The Council said that under former Town Clerk Yonette Pluck, correspondence was being kept with GPL since it was “stale news” that the Council would be in arrears of electricity payments to the power company.

It was emphasised that constant discourse was being kept and agreements would be made between the power company and the Council to address outstanding bill payments. It was pointed out that with the current Town Clerk, the only information offered was that outstanding bills were being dealt with at another level.

Dindyal told Kaieteur News that in light of what was discussed at Wednesday’s meeting and the financial state of City H a l l , i t s e e m s like the Council will never be able to

pay off its debt.

As at April 30, this year, City Hall owes GPL some $1,090,572,575. The Council says it is broke and is being stifled. Among the City Hall’s responsibilities are street lights, one of the major contributors to the hefty electricity bill - some 86.8 percent Mayor Green indicated.

It was further noted that the Council is unable to collect much of the money that is owed - some of it in rates a n d t a x e s , t h e environmental tax that was implemented by government on behalf of the Council, and fees from the Municipal Court among other things.

The Mayor noted however that GPL agreed that this situation is one where the input of Central Government is necessary.

Green said he has dispatched a letter to the Local Government Minister on the matter, and feels that tripartite discussions are the way to go if the Council is to function for the benefit of the city.

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Kaieteur News

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Govt. announces Int’l Commission of Inquiry for Rodney’s assassination

By Abena Rockcliffe After thirty-three years of controversial opinions and speculation comes an International Commission of Inquir y i n t o t h e b o m b blast killing of Dr. Walter Rodney.

The government made this announcement yesterday on the 33rd death anniversary of the famous Guyanese who was d e s c r i b e d a s a s c h o l a r, historian, activist, formidable orator and, in his latest day, a politician.

It was the government’s c h i e f s p o k e s p e r s o n D r.

Roger Luncheon who announced Pres i d e n t Donald R a m o t a r ’s intention to call in international experts to probe the killing.

But the government has not yet named the commissioners.

Dr Rodney, co-founder of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), was killed when a bomb exploded in a car in which he was an

occupant.

He was 38 years old at the time. Rodney’s brother, D o n a l d R o d n e y, w h o suffered injuries during the explosion, claimed that Former Guyana Defence Force (GDF) electronics expert, Sergeant 4141 Gregory Smith, had given the politician the bomb that killed him.

It was alleged that Smith planted the bomb in a walkie-talkie that b l e w u p o n R o d n e y ’s pelvic region while he was on John Street, Werk-enrust, between Hadfield and Bent Streets, less than 100 metres from the Camp Street Prison.

However, Smith died of cancer 11 years ago in French Guiana where he had gone to live under the name of Cyril Johnson, immediately after his escape from Guyana.

There have also been c l a i m s t h a t R o d n e y ’s assassination was set up b y t h e g o v e r n m e nt of Forbes Burnham, whom

Rodney was opposed to. This was because hi s assassination came at the height of a planned civil rebellion against the B u r n h a m - l e d administration.

But Burnham’s party, t h e P e o p l e ’s N a t i o n a l Congress (PNC), had firmly denied being any part of the bomb blast killing.

Luncheon said yesterday that the present government has noted the “unsuccessful and inconclusive” efforts of early inquiries into Rodney’s killing.

He said too that Rodney’s family has presented and is presenting “substantial arguments” for the matter to be inquired into definitively and to bring an end to the speculation surrounding the cause, involvement and motive.

He said it was in light of the aforementioned that the president decided to launch a Commission of Inquiry.

Murder of Brazilian woman at Mahdia...

11 held for questioning Eleven men have been arrested and are in custody assisting with ongoing police investigations into the murder of 47-year-old Brazilian national, Maria Jose Assis Bazerra.

This is according to a police press release issued on Wednesday night last, which stated that at around 11:30hrs

on Tuesday, the lifeless body of a woman was found in a mining camp at Tiger Creek Backdam, with suspected stab wounds to her head.

Reports on the woman remain sketchy, however Kaieteur News understands that among those arrested are the woman’s husband, also a Brazilian national, and a

fellow worker of the mining camp where the woman was found.

That worker was unaccounted for after the body was found.

A post mortem examination is expected to be conducted soon. The body remains at the Mahdia Hospital’s mortuary.

Friday June 14, 2013

Taxi driver beaten, tied and left in drain - Car stolen Even as he tried to make a living on the roadways as a taxi driver, 26-year-old Robin Deodas, was severely brutalised and his car was stolen by three men to whom he rendered his service. He was hospitalized as a result of the vicious attack.

Mid-afternoon Monday —just around 14:00hrs— Deodas picked up a young man at Parika in his Toyota Allion, bearing number plate HB 9570.

The man asked to be transported from the East Bank Essequibo location to Eccles, East Bank Demerara.

Kaieteur News was told by the victim’s relatives that when Deodas entered Eccles, the “customer” told him that he had to pick up two friends from the back of Eccles then

proceed to another location.

He did not specify the other location.

The man subsequently directed Deodas to an area near the dump site, where they picked up two other men.

Deodas told his relatives that the three men didn’t even give him a chance to drive off, they immediately attacked him at that location. He was stomped and beaten about the face and body, then tied up with rope, which one of the men had, and dumped into a nearby drain.

The taxi driver managed to relieve himself and solicited assistance from a truck driver with whom he came into contact further up the road.

Deodas reportedly suffered a broken jaw and severe lacerations about the face and body. He was taken to a private hospital where he underwent surgery to put in

place a bone that was protruding just below his eyes.

Deodas described the initial man that he picked up—to his fellow taxi drivers— as a slim, medium height man of East Indian descent.

Some taxi drivers said that the description was similar to an individual who frequents the area at Parika where they are based.

The matter was reported to the Providence Police Station and is now being dealt with at Brickdam.

Deodas was discharged from hospital yesterday morning but so far, efforts by the police and even Deodas’s friends and family to locate the car have been futile. It is said that the car was only purchased last year.

The front windscreen of the missing car carried the name Rebecca and Leon.

NAACIE reiterates call for immediate GPL probe in light of tariff hike

By Zena Henry General Secretary of the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Indus t r i a l Employees (NAACIE) Kenneth Joseph, has reiterated calls for a full investigation into the operations of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) now that the electricity company has proposed to citizens a massive 26.7 percent hike in electricity rates.

The power company

has defended the hike as recouping for significant losses as a result of fuel increases, while the pronouncement comes some weeks after the parliamentary opposition cut $5.2B from the budget which would have aided the beleagured electricity company.

J o seph is however convinced that GPL lacks proper managerial skills and has thus restated his position that a full investigation needs to b e c o n d u c t e d , w h i l e

advocating for the cut funds to be returned to GPL only when a probe has concluded.

He said that it is even more relevant and significant now for the probe, so that the operations of GPL can be determined. “We figure if there is no probe, we will not know where the money is going, so as to have cheaper electricity.”

He argued that GPL alleges that significant losses come from the (Continued on page 14)

Friday June 14, 2013

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Ekereku mishap…

Teen ran into plane’s propeller while going to collect package – Eyewitness

By Javone Vickerie The death of 17-year-old Berbice resident, Raquel Joseph, under horrific circumstances, at Ekereku Airstrip, Cuyuni, Mazaruni, on Wednesday, has stunned the mining district.

The young woman died after coming into contact with the propeller of a Cessna 172.

A source from the area told this publication that Joseph had landed in the area about 15:30 hours (3:30 pm) Wednesday on an earlier aircraft to the one by which she met her demise. The

source added after departing the plane the teen went into the police station and provided her name, address and her age (which she gave as 22). Her relatives later confirmed that she was 17.

The source said that after she came off the aircraft, Joseph was seen walking around the area a few times “as if she was looking for something”, but then requested officials at the immigration office to check for a bag which she had left on the previous plane. This publication understands that a request was made via radio

for the package to be delivered on the next incoming flight.

It was then further related by the source that when that aircraft, a Cessna bearing the registration number 8R-JIL, landed for the final flight of the day at about 17:30 hours (5:30 pm) from Olive Creek, the teenager ran towards the aircraft (with propeller still spinning) to collect the bag which she had left on the other plane, but became entangled with the propeller.

The blade sliced away a portion of the young woman’s

scalp, face, left shoulder, left breast and hand, before she was thrown approximately three metres away from the aircraft.

The body which was clad in pink jersey, blue short pants (denim) and with socks and sneakers was then covered with a sheet before it was taken away by authorities. A small haversack was also on the ground with items of clothing strewn around the immediate area.

Kaieteur News was made to understand by a reliable source that the aircraft involved in the accident was

owned by a newly functioning air service which was privately-run by a gold miner of the district.

Deputy Director of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Paula Mc Adam told this newspaper that a number of inspectors and investigators were deployed to the area yesterday to conduct a full scale investigation.

She confirmed that the body of the young woman was flown to Georgetown and is currently at Lyken’s Funeral Parlour. The pilot provided a statement to the

police before he was made available to the GCAA for questioning. A post mortem report is expected today.

Meanwhile, Kaieteur News visited a close relative of the dead teen, her aunt Roxanne, who said that she last spoke to her niece on June 1st after she was home for her 17th birthday.

The woman explained that on Wednesday she received a call from a man who related to her that Joseph was involved in an accident with an aircraft, where she “got caught up with the (Continued on page 15

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Friday June 14, 2013

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Kaieteur News

FBI director defends surveillance programs WASHINGTON (AP) — FBI Director Robert Mueller yesterday defended a pair of controversial government surveillance programs, telling Congress that leaking information on them harms national security.

In his last appearance as FBI director before the House Judiciary Committee, Mueller said that terrorists track leaked information “very, very closely” and that because of leaks “we lose our ability to get their communications” and “we are exceptionally vulnerable.”

Responding to questions by committee chairman Rep. Bob Goodlatte, R-Va., Mueller said the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court has approved the surveillance programs and they have been conducted in compliance with U.S. law and with oversight from Congress.

The revelation that the National Security Agency is collecting millions of U.S. phone records along with digital communications stored by nine major Internet companies has touched off a

national debate over whether the Obama administration, in its efforts to thwart terrorism, has overstepped proper bounds by using intrusive surveillance methods.

Rep. John Conyers, the committee’s ranking Democrat, expressed concern that the two programs were too far-reaching.

“It’s my fear that we are on the verge of becoming a surveillance state,” said Conyers.

Mueller is nearing the end of his 12 years as head of the law enforcement agency that is conducting high-profile investigations of the Boston Marathon bombings, the attacks in Benghazi, Libya, that killed four Americans and leaks of classified government information. Mueller’s last day on the job is Sept. 4.

On Wednesday, Goodlatte said that when it comes to national security leaks, it’s important to balance the need to protect secrecy with the need to let the news media do their job.

The Justice Department

revealed last month that it had secretly gathered phone records of The Associated Press and emails of Fox News journalist James Rosen in an effort to crack down on leakers of classified information.

In the past week, a 29year-old contractor leaked National Security Agency documents on the agency’s collection of millions of U.S. phone records and the NSA’s collection of emails and other information that people transmit online to and from foreign targets.

That has touched off a national debate over whether the Obama administration, in its efforts to thwart terrorism, has overstepped by using intrusive surveillance methods.

“Over the past few years, we have witnessed troubling national security leaks and have learned that the Obama administration seems to be bending the rules in place that protect the freedom of the press in its investigations,” Goodlatte said.

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Kaieteur News

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

NOISE NUISANCE AT THE K&K SERVICE STATION DEAR EDITOR, I wish to highlight a disturbing situation in my neighborhood that has been happening for months now every single weekend. I am sick and tired of the lawlessness. For long now we have been making countless reports to the Mahaica Police Station and the Cove and John Police Station about the noise nuisance at the K&K SERVICE STATION, located at Unity Village, East Coast Demerara. No action has been taken to this day.

The Police at the Mahaica Station are very rude on the phone and take your report as a joke. The majority of the time they slam the phone down on your calls and they always say that they never have patrol vehicles available.

Sometimes they say that they are sending the patrols and the patrols never reach.

But the music continues until 2am. Why must we to suffer and have our rights violated by having sleepless nights with loud, continuous and

The unending garbage...

From page 4 around the city do so whenever the opportunity presents itself. At every vacant land, garbage dumpsites emerge. A classical example, the recent demolished St. Barnabas Church on Regent Street Bourda, where there is an existing school that area has now become a dumpsite.

On High Street opposite the Trinity Methodist Church on the western side, there is a vacant land, which has now become a dump site for refuge. At the corner of East and Quamina Streets, on the shoulders of the road; the area has now become another outlet for the collection of garbage.

Noticeably in that area, on the poles, there are signs indicating to persons where they should dispose of garbage. I applaud the person(s) for such initiative. There is need for continuous public awareness on garbage disposal and its impact on the environment. The shoulders of some roadways have become dumping sites, to mention a few, Church Street Bourda, Mandela Avenue, Hunter Street Albouystown, to name a few.

I would like to quote the inspiring phrase by the late Mother Teresa, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples”.

Annette Ferguson

repetitive playing of irritating lawless (cursing) music from these vehicles that are parked on the K&K Service Station premises.

I have been a resident in my areas for over 40 years and such nonsense never occurred in the past. It’s very disturbing and embarrassing

to have my children and grandchildren around and to listen to these lawless, vulgar music. Why can’t we enjoy the peace and comfort of our homes listening to our radio and television rather than to have the zinc on our roof tops vibrating?

This nonsense must stop; we

must be able to live in peace in our neighbourhood. These people are selling alcohols also and driver abuse them and play their music very loud and sound clashing with other vehicles that are there.

Alcohol is sold to underaged children and the vendors are allowed to get away with it.

It’s a sickening sight to look over and see how our youths abuse alcohol and tobacco.

What kind of future are setting for our children?

The Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee stated on the 29th May 2013, that he will assure that laws will be applied where

necessary and that it is the responsibility of the Guyana Police Force to enforce the laws against noise nuisance, particularly when reports are made at the police stations. I hope that some sort of action can be taken in consideration of this complaint.

Affected Resident

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Friday June 14, 2013

Kaieteur News

Hawaiian

BERES

Fete for

for Club Monaco g for a Fathers' Patrons who are lookin Monaco for ub Cl it Day venue can vis y All white party the Beres Fathers' Da this Sunday. reggae singer Beres Hammond is a his romantic known in particular for voice. While his ul ulf so lovers rock and 70s, he reached career began in the 19 in the 1990s. his greatest success

Garage Drive-in Bar & Grill Get ready to have some Beach fun and the The Garage & Liquid Entertainment Presents “Hawaiian Fete” on Saturday June 29, at The Garage Drive-in Bar & Grill at Aubrey Barker rd. South Ruimveldt.

Patrons can experience a transformed beach atmosphere with five tons of sand to create the ultimate beach scenery. There will also be a Tiki Bar with cocktails that will make customers' taste buds say “aloha”. In addition there are the Sexy Luau Girls that will

entertain with beach games.

“We're even gonna get adventurous and roast a WHOLE PIG over a fire pit,” organizers said. At the event Hawaiian dishes include succulent pineapple glazed chicken, sweet & sour Hawaiian Pork , Honey Steak (imported) Side orders: Potato Fries, Plantains and Hawaiian Raison Rice.

Lighting and music by Travellers Sounds & Lighting Co. General Admission: $1,000; VIP ADM: $2,000 (pay more at the gate.)

Promoter 'Blackboy' presents

Annual Father's Day Bacchanal The buzz and customary 'fatherly love and harmony' is in the air for yet another year, and will make its way to the Parika White Fence location, as Promoter Black Boy presents his annual 'Father's Day Bacchanal'. This event is slated for Sunday.

The vibes will certainly be electric since music will be provided Slingerz Family and the HI 5 Sound System.

The catch however to this exciting event is that promoters have made available to patrons a whirlpool of goodies and prizes to be won. To start things off there is a fantastic prize for the Youngest Father, while the Oldest Father will also be awarded.

Then the Father with the most Children will be given a token, and even the Oldest Man without a Child will be given a gift on this very special day.

Then there is the Ugly Man Competition for which it is said the prize will be 'massive', and beer drinkers are urged to get ready for the

'Beer Drinking Competition'.

The men with large 'beer bellies' are not left out since they can enter and win big in the Big Belly Men contest.

Patrons leave space in the stomachs for the Buns eating Contest, which attracts fabulous prizes and the West side is urged to get ready for the sizzling 'Wine Off' between the famous character dancer, 'Granny Ivelaw', and Den Amstel's 'Shorttie' who is also a very comical entertainer.

Patrons will receive free giveaways, compliments of Digicel all night, and Mackeson Stout is also a proud supporter of this event. >>>>>>>

Hardstone Reggae Band for Pre-Father's Day Launch The village of Plaisance is known for many auspicious things, events and personalities including the worldrenowned music superstar – Eddy Grant, Natural Black and Ben Profitt, among others. Now, another musical phenomenon is about to be unveiled with the emergence of reggae band – Hardstone.

The band, which already has an original “GT sound”, will be launching its summer programme of activities with a big gig - “Pre-Father's Day Musical Showcase & Ital-Que” tomorrow from 7 p.m. at the new culture hot spot at Prince Place, 116 Regent Street (between Camp and Alexander). Admission is just $500 (ital included).

The next appearance for the sevenmember musical outfit will be on Thursday, June 20 at the Sidewalk Café when Yoruba Singers. Hardstone and the Peppa Band will team up for Beverly Smith's grand birthday bash.

Admission is $1000.

Hardstone reggae band will also be busy during the upcoming Emancipation celebrations in Georgetown and Berbice, featuring singers like “Anwar Sadat”, Jahson, “Monkey”, “Blacka” and “Crucial Tone”, among others.

On bass is Carl, with Drummie Levi on drums, Ras Gary on keyboard and Jimmy on guitar. So, be on the lookout for Guyana's reggae band with the original “GT sound”.

Inclement weather forces postponement of Carib Chutney Mania ] D E N O P T [ POS

ANSA McAL Trading Ltd says that it would like to sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused due to the second postponement of the Carib Chutney Mania concert which was planned for June 15, 2013 at the Better Hope Community Center Ground, East Coast Demerara.

“The postponement of the concert is due to the severe rainy weather that has been afflicting Guyana over the past few weeks. While this is beyond our control, we have been checking the ground constantly and were hoping that we may have still been able to host the show this weekend. “However, the ground is currently in a deplorable state. It is

wat er-logged,” the company noted. “We wish to let our supporters know that as soon as the weather holds up we will be going ahead with the concert, as such tickets are still valid. “ The artistes slated to perform at this event, inclusive of KI and the JMC 3VENI Band, have expressed disappointment at not being able to perform this weekend, but have assured that they are willing to work as soon as a mutually agreed date becomes available.

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Kaieteur News

Friday June 14, 2013

Love and Madness

“The Lioness of Poetry” Mesmerized & Inspired!

-Trinidadian Poet delivered a performance Keegan Maharaj

- said to highlight taboo subjects

By Kiana Wilburg Is love strong enough to forgive a significant other who is usually unfaithful? Can mind blowing sex, shape the way both men and women define love? The answers to these very questions and more are explored in a series of 14 plays which are headlined by the theme “Love and Madness.”

In an interview with this publication, one of the Co-producers, Lloyda Nicholas, disclosed some of the topics that will be explored in the most unexpected ways.

Nicholas, who is a well known poet and playwright, said that one of the key issues that will be discussed is “Infidelity.” She stated that with regard to this issue, the play will give honest perspectives on how men and women deal with the drama that erupts from having an unfaithful partner and if love can truly conquer it all.

Homosexuality is a subject that one of the plays will examine. Nicholas said, “It is an issue that is prevalent in our society.” She added that while the plays are funny, they are also very serious issues which will also be highlighted.

Moreover, some of the topics that will be added to the list are the concept of the “cougar,” the older woman who is said to be on the prowl for the younger man, abusive relationships, and how good sex can persuade one into believing that it is nothing but true love.

Once again, members of the public are strongly advised that this show is filled with adult content and no children are allowed. The 32-year-old noted that

whilst the show is not x-rated, it is going to be a “pretty sexy show,” one that unpredictably explores all the social issues that are lightly addressed or not at all.

“The most amazing thing about this production is that all the stories were uprooted from the Guyanese society.

When you attend this show you are going to feel as though you are looking into the life of maybe your friend, neigbour or even a family member.

Four writers, two men and two women, make up the brilliant writing cast which is sure to offer balanced views on how people feel about love, relationships and sex,” expressed Nicholas.

The exceptionally talented writer said that she has been writing since she was a child but “only began writing professionally for stage about a year ago.”

After completing her first play, “While God Watched” at the Theatre Guild Playhouse, she revealed that this is her first time as a Co-producer.

The writing team for this erotically creative play include, Nicholas, Tashandra Inniss, Randolph Critchlow and Richard Pitman. Tickets for the show are available at the West Indian Sports Complex, Robb Street, next door to C.N.S Channel 6. Simply ask for Tashandra and she would be more than happy to attend to you.

Classic film “Mother India” Indian Cultural Centre All members of the public are invited to see the classic film “Mother India” tomorrow from 5:30 pm at the Indian Cultural Centre , Lot 67 New Haven, Bel Air, Georgetown.

Mother India is a 1957 film directed by Mehboob Khan and starring Nargis, Sunil Dutt, Rajendra Kumar, and Raaj Kumar.

The film tells the story of a poor woman named Radha (Nargis) who, in the absence of her husband, struggles to raise her sons and survive against a money-lender amidst many troubles.

Despite her hardship, Radha lives a principled life and portrays a moral example of an ideal Indian woman.

The film was an important one in the new Indian nation as it portrayed rural India and depicted the role of women in dealing with feudal oppression.

The film also has a soundtrack with music from Naushad, and ever-popular songs sung by Mohammed Rafi, Shamshad Begum, Lata Mangeshkar,

and Manna Dey. Nargis won the Filmfare Best Actress Award in 1958 and became the first Indian to receive the Best Actress award at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in present-day Czech Republic.

Mother India won the Filmfare Award for Best Film and scooped several other Filmfare awards including Best Director for Khan. The film was nominated for the 1958 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Running time is 2 hours 50 minutes. Admission is free.

Yaphet Jackman

Kamadyah Yisrael

By Kiana Wilburg The atmosphere was in itself poetic.

Scented candles and dimmed lights provided for a cozy and sensual ambience which served as the perfect milieu for the evening's powerful performances of poetry.

Kamadyah Yisrael was the feature for the month and the show which was held about a week ago surpassed its high expectations.

The evening began with the open mike segment, which saw many new poets and some familiar faces presenting pieces that ranged from the pains of a broken relationship to the social ills within our society.

Some members of the audience indicated to this publication that in the beginning of the show, the crowd seemed “tough,” as though applause would only be given to the exceptionally brilliant pieces or the alluring tone of a passionate performance.

Easing the tension was Upscale's surprise guest, Trinidad's Keegan Maharaj, a poet who's on the verge of becoming a regional sensation. With admirable ease, He captured the attention of the audience. His delivery was not only electrifying and gripping but his performance was probably the most passionate most have ever witnessed.

His piece spoke to the issue of racism.

The mere mention of the topic caused eyebrows to be raised. Many thought that the Trinidadian must have “lost some of his marbles” to toy with such a taboo subject. Moments before he performed, many were at the edge of their seats wondering what his views would be on the topic. But in less than one minute into his performance, the issues he dealt with, in regard to this

social impediment, were all too candid as he ingeniously explored the pains associated with racism.

At the conclusion of his piece, many were so exhilarated that applause flowed from every corner of the room.

In an exclusive interview with this newspaper, Maharaj who is member of the culturally hypnotizing Trinidadian group, “Freetown Collective, “expressed his undying love for Guyana and the upscale entity.

The poet, who was elated to be back in Guyana, said that the stage is his sanctuary and poetry has been a part of his life since he was in single digits.

He believes that the Upscale Poetry event is a most positive and important platform for self and it is a movement that he is happy to be part of.

Maharaj said that while it is also imperative to spread powerful messages through poetry, it is equally important that you live in accordance with the principles you dispense through the spoken word.

He added that poetry is his life. “I believe it is part of my destiny to create joy wherever I go.”

With that being said it was unanimously expressed by many, that the poet has touched many lives with that single performance and certainly inspired many budding writers to say the least.

After the phenomenal delivery given by Maharaj, It was time for the “Lioness of poetry,” Kamadyah Yisrael.

“Wow! Kamadyah is an inspiration to women. This is my first time here at the upscale poetry event and my goodness I am moved. I am blown by this woman.

I have never been this affected by poetry and I am thrilled to be her,” expressed Chelsea Armstrong, an American tourist.

During a short intermission, tokens of appreciation were presented to Yisrael, Maharaj and Yaphet Jackman, who also celebrated his birthday on the said date. The gifts were compliments of Hard Core Entertainment, an incomparable art and craft company in Guyana.

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Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

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Friday June 14, 2013

DTV CHANNEL 8 08:25 hrs. Sign On 08:30 hrs. This Morning 09:00 hrs. Live! With Kelly and Michael 10:00 hrs. Roseanne 11:00 hrs. The View 12:00 hrs. Prime News 12:30 hrs. The Young and the Restless 13:30 hrs. The Bold and the Beautiful 14:00 hrs. The Talk 15:00 hrs. Cold Case 17:00 hrs. Charmed 18:00 hrs. World News 18:30 hrs. Nightly News 19:00 hrs. Greetings and Announcements 20:00 hrs. Channel 8 News 21:00 hrs. DTV’s Summer Movie Fest 00:00 hrs. Sign Off MTV CHANNEL 14/CABLE 65 Sign on

Kaieteur News

05:30hrs - Dharan Kai AwazThe Voice of Dharma 06:00hrs - Islamic perspective 06:30hrs - News Update 07:00hrs - DAYBREAK – (live) 08:00hrs - Dabi’s Variety music break 08:30hrs - Avon Video & DVD 09:00hrs - BBC World News 09:15hrs - Top Notch music Break 09:30hrs - Caribbean temptation Music Mix 10:00hrs - Amanda’s Costume jewellery Musical 10:30hrs - Comfort Sleep Musical 11:00hrs - The View 12:00hrs - Village Talk: Parfait harmony 12:30hrs - The Young and the Restless 13:30hrs - Days of Our Lives

14:00hrs - General Hospital 15:00hrs - Katie Couric Show 16:00hrs - The Bold and the Beautiful 16:30hrs - Cartoons 17:00hrs - Birthdays and other greetings 17:15hrs - Death Announcement/ In Memoriam 17:30hrs - Sitcom 18:00hrs - CNN News 18:30hrs - Kingdom Voice 19:00hrs - Soul Melodies 19:30hrs - News Update 20:30hrs - Clear Water Music Hour 21:30hrs - Music Request Hour 22:30hrs - Sitcom 23:00hrs - News Update 23:30hrs - English Movie: Mrs. Doubtfire Sign off

Friday June 14, 2013 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19): You often enjoy the anticipation of what’s next, even when the results of your actions are unpredictable.

However, your current dilemma could have you anxiously tied in knots because you know something significant is about to happen and you don’t yet know what to do about it.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20): You are dreaming of a less hectic lifestyle, but it doesn’t appear that your daily pace is calming down in the near future.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20): You are wired with excitement because ingenious Uranus forms a magical quintile with the radiant Sun in your sign today, opening the floodgates of mental originality.

CANCER (June 21–July 22): Your need for pleasure is heightened these days as delicious Venus travels through your sign. However, pursuing your desires doesn’t come without a price.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22): You have experienced so many turning points in the past few weeks that you may not have high expectations for the next one.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22): You’re entering a more social phase now, so get ready to have some fun. But there’s a more serious side to this shift, too, since your career goals are in the spotlight during the weeks ahead.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22): You may receive high praise at work for something you recently completed. Or, perhaps, you notice that others are being friendlier now, even if you haven’t changed your behavior.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21): Your strong sense of loyalty might have prevented you from breaking free until now, but you are right at the edge and eager to make some major changes.

SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21): You have work that needs to be finished, yet time is quickly running out. You may be tempted to take an unproven shortcut to the finish line or try a risky new strategy to save steps.

CAPRICORN(Dec.22–Jan.19): You still may have some loose ends to tie up, but you’re already feeling as if you are free from the heavy energy that was recently placed upon your shoulders.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18): The Sun’s brilliant quintile to your key planet Uranus today reminds you of your own natural intelligence.

Although it’s unrealistic to assume that you have all of the answers, it’s probable that your innovative thinking can produce an important breakthrough now.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20): Your feelings are flying high one minute and crashing down to earth the next as alternating currents of excitement and worry distract you from your obligations.

Page 39

David Warner apologises for Joe Root punch Australian batsman David Warner has apologised for punching England’s Joe Root in the face in a Birmingham bar. Warner, 26, was suspended until the first Ashes Test on July 10 and fined £7,000 (AU $11,500) after the incident early on Sunday morning.

“I struck Joe Root in the face and I’m here to apologise to Joe and own up to it,” Warner told a media conference. “I’m extremely remorseful. I have let my teammates, Cricket Australia, the fans, myself and my family down.”

Warner will now miss the remainder of his country’s Champions Trophy campaign and the tour matches against Somerset and Worcestershire, although he is eligible for the first Test at Trent Bridge.

He added: “I have accepted the punishment that has been handed down and I’m accountable for my actions. “Since then I have exchanged text messages with Joe. He accepted my apology which I am

David Warner thoroughly grateful for.”

Warner, who has played in 19 Test matches for his country, was dropped for Australia’s Champions Trophy game against New Zealand on Wednesday as a punishment. He could have been sent home from the tour after pleading guilty to a charge of “unbecoming behaviour”.

Australia Captain Michael Clarke admitted Warner’s behaviour was unacceptable.

“Although the punishment for David is quite harsh that’s the reality when

you play for the Australian cricket team,” said Clarke.

“This is not an IPL team, this is not state cricket, it’s not county cricket. When you play for Australia there are standards you have to uphold. His actions have not met the standard required of an Australian cricketer.”

Warner ’s suspension means he will miss valuable match-practice as he aims to end a poor run of form. He has made seven single-figure scores in his last nine innings while playing for Delhi Daredevils in the Indian Premier League and one-day internationals for Australia.

This incident is not the first time Warner has been in trouble with Cricket Australia, and last month he was fined £3,700 for a foul-mouthed Twitter exchange with two Australian journalists.

Warner admitted he needed to improve his behaviour and said: “I’ve got to be a bit smarter with what I do on and off the field.

Hopefully I will still have a part to play in the Ashes.”

(BBC Sport)

Page 40

(From page 38)

Kaieteur News

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The first time the West Indies A or B team contested an unofficial Test match was October 1981 when the Faoud Bacchus led squad toured Zimbabwe.

The Guyanese on that tour were Captain Bacchus and the flamboyant l e f t hander Timur Mohamed.

Since that inaugural outing in 1981, several Guyanese have played unofficial Test matches for the West Indies A but have failed to gained a Test cap.

Timur Mohamed West Indies B to Zimbabwe as Captain 1983 Andrew Lyght

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(deceased): West Indies B to Zimbabwe 1983 Deryck Kallicharran: West indies B to Zimbabwe 1983 Leslaine Lambert West Indies B to Zimbabwe 1986 Andrew Jackman West Indies B to Zimbabwe 1986 Sudesh Dhaniram West Indies B to Zimbabwe 1989 Lynden Joseph West Indies B to Zimbabwe 1989 Lunden Joseph West Indies A vs England A 1992 Keith Semple West Indies A to India and Bangladesh 1998 Azeemul Haniff West Indies A vs South Africa A 2000

Leon Johnson West Indies A vs India A 2012 Leon Johnson West Indies A vs Sri Lanka A Only time will tell if Leon Johnson who scored his maiden first class century in the last A team clash against Sri Lanka A at Warner Park in St. Kitts will remain on the list mentioned above.

Following is the first A or B team selected in 1981 that toured Zimbabwe: Faoud Bacchus - Captain (Guyana), Timur Mohamed (Guyana), Desmond Haynes (Barbados), Malcolm Marshall (Barbados), Hartley Alleyne (Barbados), Harold

Joseph (Trinidad), Augustine Logie (Trinidad), Marlon Tucker (Jamaica), Mark Neita (Jamaica), Jeffrey Dujon (Jamaica), Everton Matthis (Jamaica), Ignatius Caddette (Windwards), Winston Davis (Windwards), Ezra Moseley (Barbados).

Please note Moseley withdrew because he suffered a back injury. He was replaced by his compatriot Wayne Daniel. Jamaican Everton Matthis scored the first unofficial Test century for the West Indies A 0r Bteam against Zimbabwe 1981.

(Charwayne Walker)

SCOTIABANK/PEPSI SCHOOL FOOTBALL ACADEMY

Fiery action envisaged as 3rd Edition concludes Several months of rigid training sessions in the intricacies of football will culminate with fiery action when the male and female teams contest for championship honours in the Scotiabank/Pepsi School Football Academy tournament which concludes at the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue Sunday June 16 next.

Several teams will contest for the female title which will be played in a round robin format including Tutorial High, Wisburg Secondary and Berbice High, whilst the males will compete in a knockout tournament involving teams from Charlestown Secondary,

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Berbice High, Mackenzie High and Lodge Secondary.

The action commences at 09:00hrs when the females of Tutorial High come up against those of Berbice High.

At 10:20 hrs, Charlestown Secondary will play Berbice High in a male encounter followed at 11:50 hrs with Tutorial High opposing Wisburg Secondary in

another female encounter.

Lodge Secondary and Mackenzie High are slated to collide in a male game at 13:10hrs shortly before Berbice High and Wisburg Secondary clash in the final female game starting at 14:40 hrs.

The teams that will contest in the male finals will be determined after the winners of the two male

games are established.

Representatives of the sponsors and other stakeholders will be present at the finals including those from the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sports, Guyana Football Federation, Demerara Distillers Limited, Bank of Nova Scotia and Guyana Sports Development Foundation.

MACKESON / BBA DIV.1 TOP SIX B’BALL BOUNCES OFF

NA WARRIORS FACE SMYTHFIELD ROCKERS TODAY Rivalry in the Mackeson sponsored Berbice Basketball Association (BBA) firstdivision Top Six competition bounced off on Wednesday at the Vryman’s Erven Basketball Court.

Smythfield Rockers got past newcomers Canje Knights 46-40, led by the game high 19 points from Michael Bowen with support from Jamal Felix who touched in 11.

National player Carlos Crandon sunk 18 in a losing cause for Canje Knights.

The game was keenly contested and despite Smythfield Rockers taking an early lead which they maintained to the end, the exchanges were fierce with the Knights giving it their all.

At the end of the first quarter the Rockers were in command 12-6 and by the half way stage, they were up by 4 points, 22-18.

The lead increased by the end of the third quarter, 3627.

The competition continues on Friday (today)

with New Amsterdam Warriors coming up against Smythfield Rockers while on Sunday New Amsterdam Warriors will be in action again, this time against, Fyrish Black Sharks.

All matches will be played at the Vryman’s Erven Court.

At stake is $80,000 for the winner and $20,000 for the second placed team among other incentives.

The other participating teams are East Canje Knights, Rose Hall Town Jammers and New Amsterdam Prison.

Dominique Blake gets six year ban for doping (Reuters) - Jamaican 400 meter runner Dominique Blake was banned for six years on Thursday for a second doping offence.

The Jamaica Anti Doping Disciplinary Panel issued the penalty after Blake tested positive for the banned s t i m u l a n t methylhexanamine at last year’s Olympic trials.

It was her doping offence

after she served a nine month suspension for testing positive to ephedrine in 2006.

“The panel unanimously decided that Ms Blake did not satisfy the panel comfortably that the substance entered her body without the intent to enhance sporting performance and we decided on a sanction of six years commencing this day June 13,

2013,” said Kent Pantry, the chairman of the disciplinary panel.

Blake finished sixth at the trials and was picked as a relay runner for the London Olympics but did not compete at the Games.

Jamaica’s women finished third in the 4x400m relay. Blake’s attorney said the sanction was excessive and Blake may appeal.

Friday June 14, 2013

Kaieteur News

Confed captains ready to inspire Of the eight captains at this year ’s FIFA Confederations Cup, four of them are defenders, five are over the age of 30 and six play their football in Europe.

FIFA.com takes a closer look at these inspirational figures who all harbour hopes of lifting the famous trophy come Sunday 30 June.

GROUPA Brazil: Thiago Silva (28, defender) The Paris Saint-Germain captain has established himself as one of the most respected defenders in the world, with several seasons of assured performances at the highest level of European football. He rose to prominence following his move to AC Milan in 2009 and his consistency has earned him rave reviews at a club renowned for producing defensive legends. Silva understands the responsibilities that come with being A Seleção skipper.

“Wearing the armband makes me remember everything I’ve been through to get here,” he said. “You can be sure that I’m going to do my best to do it proud, so that everyone can look to me as an example to follow.”

Japan: Makoto Hasebe (29, midfielder) In the holding midfield role, Hasebe dictates the tempo of Japan’s play, and drives his team on from the centre of the park. He plays a similar role for Wolfsburg in Germany, with whom he won the Bundesliga in just his second season in European football. Hasebe made his international debut in 2006

and fulfilled a lifelong dream by captaining his country at the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

Mexico: Francisco Javier Rodríguez (33, defender) One of the few experienced players in a very young Mexican national team and the rock for coach Jose Manuel de la Torre, who made him skipper as soon as it was clear that long-standing skipper Rafa Marquez was not returning to the El Tri fold. A solid player, with a long career in Europe with spells at PSV Eindhoven and Stuttgart, Rodriguez has a strong but silent personality, preferring to lead by example rather than bark orders at his team-mates.

Italy: Gianluigi Buffon (35, goalkeeper) One of the best keepers in the world for a long time, Buffon inherited the Italian captaincy when longstanding skipper Fabio Cannavaro retired from the national team at the end of the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Since then, Buffon has led by example on and off the pitch becoming one of the most respected players in world football. Indeed, Cesare Prandelli recently stated that the Italy No1 is “a fine example for any young

player.”

GROUP B Spain: Iker Casillas (32, goalkeeper) A captain for club and country, Casillas has skippered La Furia Roja to European Championship success in 2008 and 2012 and the country’s first FIFA World Cup success in 2010. Despite being dropped by Jose Mourinho for Real Madrid this season, he remains Vicente del Bosque’s first choice and with the armband.

Between the sticks, his confidence and winning attitude extends throughout the whole team. Del Bosque is unrestrained in his praise of his captain, saying “in footballing terms, he’s a living legend.”

Tahiti: Nicolas Vallar (29, defender) One of the few Tahitians to have played professionally in Europe, Vallar has a strong footballing brain and provides an unruffled presence in the backline. He was named player of the tournament in the 2012 OFC Nations Cup, in which the tiny island nation secured a fairytale ticket to Brazil.

Tahiti coach Eddy Etaeta is, unsurprisingly, effusive in his

praise for Toa Aito’s captain. “He has a great athletic presence and is very aggressive on his man,” Etaeta told FIFA.com.

“I can tell you that the forwards who’ve faced him this year have been left feeling rather dazed.”

Nigeria: Vincent Enyeama (32, goalkeeper) Although Joseph Yobo was nominally the Super Eagles’ skipper at the 2013 CAF Africa Cup of Nations, it was Vincent Enyeama who wore the armband for the majority of the time. With Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi not selecting Yobo for the FIFA Confederations Cup, Enyeama will now asume the position on a more regular basis. As Nigeria’s No1 for over a decade, ‘the Cat’ also provides strong support for the Super Eagles’ relatively inexperienced defence. The Maccabi Tel Aviv player certainly leads by example at FIFA tournaments, having won two Man of the Match Awards in three appearances at the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Uruguay: Diego Lugano, (32, defender) The character and personality of this strong central defender are a key part of Uruguay’s defensive structure, however the former Sao Paulo star is also an inspiration for the team off the field.

Oscar Tabarez recognised his qualities as soon as he took over the team in 2006, making him La Celeste captain straight away.

Since then, Lugano has only been absent from his starting XI through injury or suspension, summing up Uruguay’s spirited qualities.

Digicel, KMTC Horse Race Gittens takes dominoes to Classic for August 1 the Guyana Legion Hall The Digicel / Kennard Memorial Turf Club (KMTC) Horse Race Classic has been confirmed for August 1 at Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne Berbice.

Events slated for the day are G 1 & Lower for a distance of one mile ($600,000), J 1 & Lower over 6 furlongs ($300,000), Two Years Guyana and West Indies Bred over 5 furlongs ($700,000), D 3 & Lower over 6 furlongs ($900,000), J 3 & K over 5 furlongs ($325,000), Three Years Guyana & West Indies Bred for one mile ($1.3M) and the main attraction for One Mile attracting B & Lower horses with 2.5M as the top prize as is the other prizes mentioned above.

A release from the KMTC stated that the races will take place under the rules of the

Guyana Horse Race Authority and owners must pay at least $5,000 for each horse at the time of entry.

Failure to meet this requirement would result in horses’ names not appearing on the official programme list and they will not be permitted to run.

The release further indicated that five horses must start in order for the third prize to be paid and seven for the fourth.

In the event that there are less than five horses entered for any event the club reserves the right to cancel or reframe the said event or reduce the prize money after consulting with the horse owners.

Entries close on Sunday July 21, no late entries will be accepted.

The stage has been set; a delicious Bar-B-Que, music by popular sounds and lucrative prizes for the top teams when Gittens and the Guyana Legion presents a dominoes competition and a Bar-B-Que with a difference at the Guyana Legion Hall, Carifesta Avenue, Monday July 1 next.

Eighteen (18) teams will

compete for a top prize of $80,000 with the second place raking in half that amount.

The team finishing third will receive $20,000.

The registration fee is $9000 per team and the first 12 teams that conform to this prerequisite will receive special incentives.

Double six time will be 12:00hrs sharp.

Haslim stars in Classic victory Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) batsman Wasim Haslim stroked a stylish 96 as his team, Classic Cricket Club (CCC) defeated Sher-ePunjabs by 166 runs in the Etobicoke League 50 over tournament recently in Canada.

CCC batted first and posted 304-9 with Haslim

slamming ten fours and four sixes in his first appearance for the club. Harrichand Johal took 2-19 and Sukhdeep Brar 2-60 for Sher-a-Punjabs who were bowled out for 138 in their 50 overs.

Arwinder Gill made 59; Jonerick Sookdeo captured 514 from 5 overs for the winners.

Page 41

Whitmore steps down as Jamaica coach Kingston, Jamaica - After his team dropped three World Cup qualifiers during an eight-day span, Theodore Whitmore has resigned Wednesday as Jamaica Head Coach. Jamaica Football Federation President Horace Burrell said that a new Coach would be hired within a few days.

The Reggae Boyz are in last place in the CONCACAF hexagonal, failing to win a game in six encounters with a 0-2-4 record (2 points). They had lost two games at home — to Mexico (1-0) on June 4, and to the United States (2-1) on June 7, before dropping a 2-0 decision at Honduras on Tuesday night.

After opening the final qualifying round with a pair of ties, including an impressive 0-0 result against Mexico at the Estadio Azteca, Jamaica has lost four consecutive matches. Burrell said that a “coach’s tenure depends on the results” and the team’s performance under Whitmore has “not been good.”

Jamaica failed to qualify for the Gold Cup for the first time since 2007, falling in the Caribbean Cup last year after winning it in 2010.

“Following a string of poor performances by our national team, where we’ve played six matches so far - we have two points, we have two goals - and stemming from the last performance ... another result which could’ve been considered poor,” Burrell shared at a press conference

Theodore Whitmore held in Honduras prior to the contingent’s departure. “I requested a meeting with coach Whitmore. The meeting was called at 0100 hours and following that meeting, coach Whitmore took the decision to tender his resignation. Having tendered that resignation, I accepted.”

Whitmore, 40, a former Jamaican International who starred for the Reggae Boyz in their sole World Cup appearance at France 1998, became the second Jamaica Coach to lose his job in Honduras. Brazilian Rene Simoes was sacked by Burrell after a loss virtually eliminated the side from World Cup contention in 2008.

He scored two goals in Jamaica’s lone win of the 1998 World Cup in a 2-1 win over Japan, tallying 24 times in 104 international appearances.

The Jamaicans, who reached the hexagonal for the first time since 2001, won’t play another qualifier until a September 6 encounter at Panama. They will host Costa Rica four days later.

HISTORIC HAITI RALLIES FOR ITALY DRAW RIO DE JANEIRO - Olrish Saurel and Jean Philippe Peguero struck in the final five minutes as Haiti rallied from a two-goal deficit to tie Italy, 22, in an international friendly Tuesday at Sao Januario Stadium.

The match, a fundraiser for those affected by the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, was the second meeting between the two countries. In the 1974 World Cup, Emmanuel Sanon put Haiti in front just after halftime, but Gianni Rivera, Romeo Benetti and Pietro Anastasi scored for the Azzurri in the 3-1 victory in Munich.

In its final tune-up before taking on Mexico in the FIFA Confederations Cup, Italy needed just 14 seconds to take the lead as Emanuele Giaccherini ran onto Mattia De Sciglio’s cross and the Juventus midfielder hammered it past Haitian goalkeeper Frandy Montrevil

from six meters.

When Claudio Marchisio easily tapped in the rebound of Stephan El Shaarawy’s saved shot in the 73rd minute following an impressive buildup, the Italians appeared to be in full control.

But Saurel scored from the penalty spot in the 85th minute, blasting the ball to the left of Italian goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu after Mourice Geen was taken down by Davide Astori.

Peguero then collected a long ball off his chest, fended off a defender and beat Sirigu with a low shot inside the far post in the second minute of second half stoppage time as Haiti rallied for a draw with the four-time World Cup champions.

The Haitians are preparing for next month’s CONCACAF Gold Cup. They are in Group B with Honduras, El Salvador and Trinidad & Tobago.

Page 42

Kaieteur News

Friday June 14, 2013

Stage set for resumption of Linden Bolt told: QUALIFY for 100m Sec. Sch. U-19 B’ball C/ship at World Championships The stage is set for the resumption on Monday of the 9th edition of the Linden Secondary Schools Under-19 basketball championship with a double header at the Mackenzie Sports Club Hard Court.

The tournament, which has five playing days remaining, had been temporarily suspended due to the inclement weather which came during the Linden Town Week and then the CSEC Examinations with a number of the playing students having to focus on their academics.

The Organising Committee of the Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) met on Wednesday and in a statement said that with a break in the weather and CSEC exams nearing an end, play will resume.

Monday’s match’s bounces off at 14:30hrs with New Silvercity Secondary taking on Linden Foundation Secondary while at 16:00hrs Mackenzie High and defending champions Linden Technical Institute will face off.

Another double header is fixed for Wednesday when Linden Foundation Secondary play Wisburg Secondary followed by a clash between Christianburg/Wismar Secondary and New Silvercity Secondary.

On Friday next, New Silvercity and Mackenzie High will play from 14:30hrs with the final game in the preliminary round between Christianburg/Wismar and Wisburg.

Christianburg/Wismar, Multi and Wisburg are tied on six points each after winning their three matches played so far. Linden Foundation and Linden Technical Institute follow next on five points apiece after winning two and losing one game to date.

Mackenzie High remains winless after three games for their three points as New Silvercity occupy the cellar position on two points following two losses.

Meanwhile, the LABA will be holding a meeting with its Referees and Table Officials at 17:00hrs on Saturday (tomorrow) at the Mackenzie Sports Club Pavilion.

- Jamaica pick Blake as no. 1 Bolt and Blake are training partners back in Jamaica

SINGH WANTS TO GET BACK TO WORK President of the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA), Michael Singh said that he wants to get to his programme to develop basketball in the Capital City, but bad weather and the unavailability of the Sports Hall has affected his momentum.

Singh, who took office this year, immediately swung into action and completed two Leagues for Division I and Division III totalling over 100 games on the Burnham Basketball Court. He hoped to complete a Playoff among the top for teams before bad weather intervened.

In addition to inclement weather, Singh could not have opted for the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) because

Michael Singh the court there is currently under rehabilitation. The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports have not formally announced a completion deadline.

“I’m eager to get back to work; to use the recent Standings to run some

competitive basketball as the interest in the sport gradually came back during the League, which was faced with a lack of sponsorship and interest from the basketball community,” Singh said.

“I just want to indicate that we’re not dormant, but faced with weather issues and the unavailability of the CASH, basketball at a competitive level is somewhat sidelined until July,” Singh believes.

He reassured that the Playoffs are still on the GABA agenda as well as competitions for the third and first divisions.

Singh reiterated his commitment to returning basketball to a prominent place in Georgetown and in Guyana once he gets the necessary support.

Murray wins twice to reach quarters at Queen’s London (AP) - Andy Murray won twice Thursday to reach the Queen’s Club quarterfinals, defeating Nicolas Mahut 6-3, 7-6 (4) in a suspended match and then beating Marinko Matosevic 6-2, 6-2.

Defending champion and fifth-seeded Marin Cilic of Croatia saved a match point and swept the last five games to down Spanish qualifier Feliciano Lopez 4-6, 7-6 (5) 75.

Also winning were second-seeded Tomas Berdych of the Czech Republic, No. 3 Juan Martin del Potro of Argentina and No. 4 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga of France. But the No. 6 Sam Querrey, the 2010 champion, was ousted by former fourtime tournament winner Lleyton Hewitt, who won 5-7, 6-3, 6-4.

Murray resumed his

Andy Murray match against Mahut at 2-2 in the second set and fought off three break points in his first two service games before beating the Frenchman in the tiebreaker.

The top-seeded Scot then took charge early against Matosevic, breaking the Australian to lead 2-1 and again in the fifth game. A break

for 1-0 gave Murray a perfect start to the second set and a further break for 4-1 all but sealed his opponent’s fate.

Berdych eased past 16thseeded Grega Zemlja of Slovenia 6-3, 6-4, and Del Potro surrendered just eight points in the opening set against Britain’s Daniel Evans before winning 6-0, 6-3.

Tsonga, the runner-up to Murray in 2011, survived two three-set battles. He defeated fellow Frenchman Edouard Roger-Vasselin 6-3, 6-7 (2), 63 in a rain-delayed secondround match and then Dutchman Igor Sijsling 7-5, 57, 6-3.

American Denis Kudla reached his first ATP Tour quarterfinal with a 6-1, 6-3 win over Kenny De Schepper of France, and Benjamin Becker of Germany upset seventhseeded Alexandr Dolgopolov of Ukraine 7-6 (5), 7-5.

Usain Bolt will have to finish in the top three in the 100 metres at Jamaica’s National Senior Trials on Friday June 21 to book his place in the World Championship team. Perhaps he is human, after all.

The six-time Olympic champion has been overlooked for a wildcard in the shorter sprint in favour of 2011 world champion and training partner Yohan Blake, who took the title in Daegu, South Korea two years ago following Bolt’s disqualification after a false start.

Bolt will therefore have to run heats on Friday June 20 and contest a semi-final and final on the blue track of Jamaica’s National Stadium in Kingston the following day; a stadium built in 1962 that holds 35,000 people paying 500 Jamaican dollars (£3.20) to wear their national colours and make deafening noise on the bleachers or $2000 (£12.80) to sit in the main stand.

The 26-year-old must finish in the top three to guarantee selection for August’s World Championships in Moscow in the individual 100m and Jamaica’s 4 x 100m relay team.

Despite a below-par start to the season, Bolt has already twice run comfortably inside the ‘A’ qualifying standard of 10.15 seconds.

New rules introduced by the IAAF, athletics’ world governing body, last year give defending world champions and winners of the prestigious Diamond League events automatic entry into the World Championships.

But if a nation has two eligible candidates, as Jamaica does in both the 100m

and 200m, then country’s governing body has a tricky decision to make. Bolt won the 100m Diamond League title but must defer to Blake, 23, over the straight sprint.

In turn, Nickel Ashmeade, the 2012 200m Diamond League winner, will see Bolt take the only automatic 200m spot because he is the reigning world champion over the longer distance.

Crucially, this means Bolt, who has begun the season with a sluggish 10.09-second run and defeat by Olympic bronze medallist Justin Gatlin, will not have to face Blake at the trials.

‘The Beast’ beat Bolt in both the 100m and 200m at last year’s Jamaica Championships and is currently nursing a hamstring strain, but is not required to run the 100m, while Bolt has no need to run the 200m.

Bolt has known since last September this was always likely to happen and has spoken before in support of his team-mate and the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA).

He said: ‘I think Blake has earned his right to compete in the 100 metres by winning the title at the last world championships. I was always going to run the 100 (at the Jamaican trials).

‘The JAAA are the ones who are eligible to pick which wild card they would like and they will have to say whether I will have to run (the 200) at the trials or not.’

It may be surprising that the JAAA has overlooked a global superstar like Bolt, but the decisions are uniform and make perfect sense.

The fault, however, lies with the IAAF for not foreseeing a scenario such as

this which, given Jamaica’s reserves of top-class sprinting talent, was always likely to happen. Each team can only enter a maximum of four athletes into each event, after all.

Glen Mills, who coaches both Blake and Bolt, told The Jamaican Gleaner: ‘I believe it is unfair to offer a man something he cannot use. If you are giving a wild card as a reward for work done, then that wild card should be able to be used no matter what.

‘So whether or not you have the defending champion from the same country, if you give someone a wild card, they should be able to cash it in.

‘So if a country ends up with two wild cards, so be it, but you can’t disenfranchise the man, because that is what you are doing when you force the country to decide on who goes and who has to qualify.’

There will be a similar feeling of discontent at the US Track and Field trials, which take place over the same weekend as the Jamaican Championships in Des Moines, Iowa. The USA selection criteria clearly states defending champions will always take precedence over Diamond League winner and the team has already preselected 13 ‘wildcard’ athletes, although all of them must compete at the trials in at least one event.

Olympic decathlon champion Ashton Eaton, however, must complete all 10 disciplines and finish in the top three to earn his trip to Moscow, whereas Trey Hardee, the 2011 world champion, could just turn up for the heats of one individual event to rubber-stamp his qualification.

Friday June 14, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 43

Bravo uses C-word ahead of BOLT BREEZES TO VICTORY must-win South Africa game IN DIAMOND LEAGUE 200M West Indies captain Dwayne Bravo hopes that South Africa’s habit of ‘choking’ at major tournaments will work in his side’s favour when they meet in a winner-takes-all Champions Trophy clash today.

Whichever team comes out on top in Cardiff will join already qualified India as one of the two semi-finalists out of Group B in a competition featuring the world’s top eight one-day nations.

Despite having had several fine limited overs sides since re-admission, the Proteas haven’t lifted a major one-day trophy since winning the 1998 edition of this tournament.

Especially at World Cups, they’ve found some remarkable ways to bow out, be it a dramatic 1999 tie with Australia at Edgbaston when they had the match all but won or failing to read correctly the Duckworth/Lewis sheet for rain-affected fixtures on home soil four years later.

Hence the tag of “chokers”, one Bravo had no hesitation in using despite the fact the West Indies have not beaten South Africa in a oneday international since 2006.

“I think in tournaments, it doesn’t really matter whether you win previous games against opposition or not,” Bravo told reporters in Cardiff on Thursday. “I think the South Africans will feel the pressure also. They know if they lose, they are going back home. They have a tag of being chokers that do not do well in big tournaments, so that would be added pressure on them.

“For us, we’re going to

Dwayne Bravo

AB de Villiers

enjoy the occasion and forget about what happens in previous games,” added Bravo of a West Indies side who won last year’s World Twenty20 event. “It’s a tournament. It’s a knockout game. We’ve been in this situation before, do well and go beyond. So, no pressure is on us,” the all-rounder added. “I’m really excited and looking forward to this game”.

South Africa, however, are set to field Dale Steyn for the first time this tournament on Friday (today).

Widely regarded as the best fast bowler currently in world cricket, Steyn has yet to feature in this Champions Trophy after suffering a sidestrain in a warm-up defeat by Pakistan. However, Proteas Captain AB de Villiers was confident of unleashing Steyn against the West Indies.

“He bowled at a 100 percent intensity on Wednesday and it was sort of the first part of his fitness assessment,” de Villiers said.

“He’s 99.9 percent ready, but we’re just going to make sure this (Thursday) afternoon that he’ll be ready to go. “Both teams have won one and lost one of their two

pool matches thus far.

If the forecast rain does descend on Sophia Gardens to such an extent no result is possible, South Africa would go through to the last four courtesy of their superior net run-rate. However, a reduced overs match could favour the West Indies, given their status as World Twenty20 champions.

But de Villiers said South Africa would have no problems adapting, if required, to a shortened fixture. “Whether we play a shortened game or a normal game, it’s all about focus and team intensity off the field,” he said.

“I mention this so often, but it’s really true, the guys that can adapt the quickest can really walk on the field and switch on straight away.

“We still rate ourselves as a serious cricket team in whatever format we play and however many overs we play in,” said wicketkeeperbatsman de Villiers, also a key figure in the South Africa side now on top of the world Test rankings.

“Whatever happens tomorrow we’ll go out and make sure we play better than the opposition.”

Cyclist Leal recovering well at GPHC -to undergo operation today Junior Cyclist Raul Leal is recovering well at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Leal was hospitalised on May 23 after he was involved in an accident with a mini bus during training sessions at Meadow Brook Gardens, and as a result he suffered from a broken right hand and feet.

Leal told Kaieteur Sport yesterday that he already did an operation on his hand which was successful but will undergo another on his right feet today.

The Team Coco’s Cycle Club member stated that he is hoping to start training before the year is out. “I can’t wait to get back on the track’ he said.

Leal indicated that he is disappointed to miss out on a number of competitions. “Due to my accident I missed the Caribbean Junior Championships, as well as tours to Anguilla, St. Lucia and French Guiana” added Leal.

He said that training on the road is very dangerous and the authorities should make the National Park available so that we can train

Raul Leal in hospital yesterday

there even in the nights. “If the Park cannot be made available then I have no choice but to train on the road”, informed Leal.

So much for the suggestions Usain Bolt is ‘past it’, then. The Jamaican responded to his 100 metres defeat by Justin Gatlin in Rome last week by setting a stadium record as he dominated the 200m in Oslo last night.

Bolt ran 19.79 seconds at the Bislett Stadium, breaking Frankie Fredericks’ 17-yearold record by three hundredths of the second and becoming the first man this year to dip under 20 seconds.

Before the event began he was introduced to the crowd in a racing car as he zoomed around the track waving to the spectators. The car is an example from the series that will begin next season known as Formula E, where cars look like their Formula 1 counterparts but will be run on electricity.

He said it wanted the record before his race and he duly claimed it, accelerating off the bend from lane six to leave Norway’s Jaysuma Saidy Noure and Great Britain’s James Ellington in his wake.

A telling glance at the clock and Bolt’s determination to run through the line showed just how much he wanted it. He said: ‘I came out here and I ran hard and I went as fast as I can, so I’m happy.

‘All I have to do is go home and work on everything else and go a bit faster. ‘I’m going to show the world I’m the No1 and I’m the legend that I am.’

The two other British athletes in the Diamond League race - David Bolarinwa and Daniel Talbot – finished fifth and sixth respectively after Holland’s Martina Churandy was disqualified for a false start.

And so on to Jamaica’s National Senior Trials in Kingston in a week’s time, where Bolt must finish in the top three to guarantee his place in the 100m at the World Championships in August.

He drove around the track in the racing car before the competition and will perform a DJ set at an after-party, but will receive no special treatment from his own federation.

Elsewhere last night, Great Britain’s Tiffany Porter won the 100m hurdles in 12.76 seconds and Shara Proctor won the long jump with her first-round effort of 6.89 metres.

Perri Shakes-Drayton came second in the 400m hurdles, running 54.03secs behind Olympic bronze medallist Zuzana Hejnova.

The 24-year-old ran nearly two seconds quicker than in her disappointing

seventh-place finish in Eugene two weeks ago - a race Hejnova won comfortably and vowed to beat the Czech athlete next time out.

Shakes-Drayton added: ‘I’m coming (good). The world championships – I’m coming. I’m really pleased with that.’ Anyika Onuora, a 200m specialist, also enjoyed success over a lap of the track, winning the 400m national event in 52.11secs on her debut at the distance.

Before the action got underway, the ‘Three Musketeers’ of British middledistance running – Sebastian Coe, Steve Ovett and Steve Cram – were reunited in the stadium in which they broke seven world records between them.

The Dream Mile has traditionally been the marquee event at this meeting and all three athletes claimed world records over the distance in Oslo: Coe in 1979, Ovett a year later and Cram in 1985 with three minutes 46.32 secs.

Djibouti’s Ayanleh Souleiman’s winning time last night, incidentally, was 3mins 50.53secs.

Lord Coe said: ‘When you got invited to Oslo you knew you had come of age in the sport. I think I speak for all of us when I say this is a very special stadium for us.’

WI/SL 2ND TEST ‘A’ TEAM TEST

Rain washes out 2nd day’s play Heavy rain in St Vincent yesterday washed play without a ball being bowled on the second day of the second ‘A’ team Test match between hosts West Indies ‘A’ and Sri Lanka ‘A’ The rain left the ground waterlogged and although the weather improved after Tea no play was possible and the Umpires, Joel Wilson and Peter Nero called off the day’s play.

Play on the third day today is scheduled to commence at 09:30hrs. On the opening day Kaushal Silva smashed 14 boundaries in a polished unbeaten 115 and got support from Angelo Perera (50) and Chaturanga deSilva (33) spurred the visitors to 268-6 when stumps were drawn.

Jonathon Carter (2-51) and Miguel Cummings (2-49) had made early inroads to leave Sri Lanka on 52-3 before Silva and Perera consolidated the position with a 108-run fourth wicket stand before left

Chaturanga deSilva cuts Miller arm spinner Niketa Miller removed Perera.

Guyanese left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul (1-64

from 22 overs) then bowled deSilva just before the close to leave the Asians in a strong position at the end of day one.

Page 44

Kaieteur News

Friday June 14, 2013

BACK CIRCLE IN RELENTLESS Sangakkara’s stunning hundred keeps Sri Lanka alive PURSUIT TO BRING BACK TITLE Kumar Sangakkara has never got his hands on a major ICC one-day trophy. Neither have the other outstanding players of this Sri Lanka era - Mahela Jayawardene, Lasith Malinga or Tillakaratne Dilshan.

But they will believe there is still time after Sangakkara’s magnificent unbeaten 134 from 135 balls pulled off an improbable run chase against England by seven wickets with 17 balls to spare at The Oval.

Only India had ever pulled off such a daunting target on this ground and, if Sri Lanka had failed to hit such heights, they would have been eliminated. But, as the clouds cleared, the pitch was encouraging and Sangakkara, driven by the vision that his redoubtable career need not go unrewarded, summoned a shrewd and inspired response.

England now face New Zealand in Cardiff in their final match on Sunday and Sri Lanka are pitted against Australia at The Oval the following day with Group A in the balance.

ODI batting England style, a methodical, statistically-justified policy that involves stripping as much risk out of the game as possible, setting up an appropriate base and then staking much on havoc at the end had been found wanting, and as Sangakkara drove Sri Lanka towards victory, its chief architect, Jonathan Trott, who had made 76 from 87 balls in inimitable style, watched in forlorn mood from the dressing room, ice pack pressed to a strained thigh.

Sangakkara marshalled Sri Lanka’s response superbly despite the initially distracting, and ultimately inspired, presence of the promoted tail-ender, Nuwan Kulasekara, who was sent in to No. 5 to have a swing in the Powerplay and who for a prolonged period was about as useful to Sangakkara as a loose horse in the Grand National.

His promotion looked ill-judged as he struggled against James Anderson, but when he launched Graeme Swann’s offspin for two successive leg-side sixes, and continued to thrash his way to an unbeaten 58 from 38 balls it abruptly became a masterstroke.

Kulusekara also knew his place. Shortly after Sangakkara reached his 15th ODI hundred, and his first against England, he stumbled in mid-pitch and, recognising the danger of a run out, Kulusekara ran alongside him to ensure that he would be run out if anybody would be. In his instantaneous recognition that he must protect his partner at all costs, it spoke volumes for his good sense.

When Sangakkara responded by hoisting Anderson’s slower ball for six, it communicated that he was worth preserving. Anderson was impressive, and England’s ground fielding, led by the sub Jonny Bairstow, was exceptional at times, but three overs from Joe Root, England’s insurance bowler, cost 27, and Stuart Broad had an expensive night.

Jayawardene and Dilshan also played their part for Sri Lanka with a couple of 40s and Malinga was Sri Lanka’s biggest threat with the ball: the star players had found a response.

Sri Lanka must have feared the game was up when Ravi Bopara struck 28 from the last over, from Shaminda Eranga, including three sixes and two fours, leaving Angelo Mathews mentally rewriting his close-of-innings speech in the Sri Lanka huddle as Bopara left the ground to rousing cheers.

Three England wickets had fallen in six balls at the death, including Eoin Morgan and Jos Buttler, the latter second ball for 0 - the batsmen they look to for the final flourish both silenced. But Bopara tore into Eranga, depositing him for sixes over long-on, extra

-winners to attend Coaching Course in Jamaica

Nuwan Kulasekara played a fine hand as pinch hitter

cover and long-on again. He even took two runs off the only ball that Eranga managed to get into the blockhole.

That was the excitement; the rest belonged to Trott. His uncanny ability to turn a oneday international innings into an algorithm might not thrill cricket crowds around the world, but when he bats through, it requires something special in return for England to lose.

He worked the leg side with alacrity and, by the time he fell lbw, sweeping at Rangana Herath’s left-arm spin, his time had been served. His one-day record is proven, his method brings victory more often than not, and many of those who rail against his methodical ways are railing, in part, about the fact that he is limiting the spectacle.

Alongside Trott, Root provided the perkiest of half-centuries, built on an appreciation of quick ones and twos and occasional inventiveness. If Root was shaken by his altercation with David Warner in the Walkabout bar in Birmingham on Sunday, he did not show it for a moment. Root fell to a slower offcutter from Malinga and left with a wink. Perhaps he winked at Warner, in his green and gold wig, and rued the consequences?

Sri Lanka dropped four catches in all, the most embarrassing of the lot from their eventual saviour, Sangakkara, who dashed from behind the stumps to claim Root’s skier to midwicket, and shouted loudly enough, but then feared Mathews was about to collide with him and fumbled the ball in the process.

Dilshan also had the sort of afternoon that befalls this celebrated fielder so rarely. He dropped three catches in all, reprieving Alastair Cook twice, the first a tough diving chance to his right at backward point and the second an easier return catch when again he dived to his right but the ball eluded him. His third mishap, against Root, was a swirler as he dashed back from backward point. At the end of the night, all that was forgotten. A lively tournament had been brought alive.

With over US$7000 in prize money up for grabs, Guyana’s Back Circle, representative at the upcoming Guinness ‘Caribbean Street Challenge’ Competition has been working tirelessly in preparations to bring back the title to the ‘Land of Many Waters’.

Kaieteur Sport caught up with the players shortly before they embarked on another practice session at the East Ruimveldt Community Centre Hardcourt.

Speaking with the experienced Andy Duke, one of the original members of the team, he told this newspaper that they’ve been working hard over the past few weeks in preparation for the tournament which will also see teams from Trinidad and Tobago, host St. Vincent & the Grenadines, St Lucia, St Kitts & Nevis, Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda Dominica vie for the Regional title.

Duke expressed satisfaction with the turnout of members at the training sessions to date, adding that the preparations have been going smooth and they’ve

GSCL\ Digimax tourney

By Zaheer Mohamed Safraz Esau stroked a fine half century as Regal XI defeated Super Star by 30 runs when the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL)\Digimax open competition commenced last Sunday at the Muslim Youth Organization Ground, Woolford Avenue.

Esau scored 51 and got support from Lakeram Roopnarine 26 and Richard Latiff 25 as Regal posted 1388 batting first off their allotted 10 overs.

Motilall Chennauth and Narendra Singh claimed 2 wickets each.

Super Star could only muster 108-8 in 10 overs in reply. Shewchand Budhu made 33 and Ramkumar Mangal 28 as Ricky Sergeant claimed 2-18 and Troy Sanasie 2-22.

In other action, Memorex overcame Success

been working relentless and late.

Losing finalists at last year’s competition which was hosted right here in Guyana, Duke questioned on whether the team has devised strategies which will ensure that they go one better this time around answered in the affirmative, but remained reluctant to divulge what they were.

“We realised our mistakes and we’ve worked on correcting them, but I will not say what they were or what corrections we’ve made,” Duke said. He stated that everyone is focused and rearing to play football and confident of doing well for Guyana.

Duke added that even though they do not have any knowledge of any of their opponents, he is not bothered by that, but more concentrated on getting well prepared to do well during the tournament.

The team is: Wayne Wilson (Captain), Andy Duke, Philip Rowley, Seon McKenzie, Vincent Thomas, Daniel Favourite and Devon Harris.

Meanwhile, the winners will receive US$4000, runners-

up- US$2000 and 3rd placeUS$1000, while the winner of the inaugural Skillz Challenge Competition will take home US$1000.

In a release, it was disclosed that the winning team and Manager or Coach will also get the chance to earn official Coaching qualification.

They will also have the opportunity of working in conjunction with the Jamaican Football Federation.

Guinness will provide over 60 hours of tuition and training to the winners of the Guinness Street Football Challenge.

The Course will cover all aspects of football coaching, from drills and skills to nutrition and sports psychology.

It is an Advanced Level 1 Course recognized by CONCACAF and FIFA. The Course is aimed at future coaches who want to upgrade and enhance their coaching skills and make coaching a career choice. The entire package to get to Jamaica will be borne by Guinness.

The tournament will run from June 21-23.

Esau slams half century as Regal beat Super Star by 30 runs Challengers by 54 runs.

Memorex took first strike and rattled up 164-6 in 10 overs; Darshan Challitar top scoring with 42 while Shimron Hetymer and Seon Hetymer supported with 27 each.

Mark Fung was the pick of the bowlers with 4-26.

Success Challengers in response were halted at 110 all out in 9.2 overs. Suraj Budhram made 28 and Anand Rooplall 20; Ahmad Khan snared 4-10 and Darshan Challitar 3-24.

Memorex then recorded their second victory of the day when they got the better of Better Hope by 5 wickets.

Better Hope batted first and managed 127-6 in 10 overs.

Ravi Singh led with an unbeaten 53 while Sachin Singh contributed 39; Darshan Challitar took 2-10 and Vishnu Bacchus 2-12.

Memorex replied with 128-5 in 9.2 overs.

Shimron Hetymer was their leading batsman with 37 while Darshan Challitar scored 25 and Joshua Garnett 20 not out.

The competition continues on Sunday at the Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) Ground.

Meanwhile, the Banks DIH\Cloud Nine 8-over tournament which was scheduled to start on June 19 has been pushed back for July 6 at Thirst Park.

According to Organising Secretary of the GSCL Samuel Kingston, the first place team in this competition will receive a trophy and $240,000, the runner &100,000, the most valuable player $10,000, the best batsman and bowler $5,000 each.

Entrance fee is $30,000.

For more information teams can contact Kingston on 6149636.