Guyana Times Daily

Hundreds walk in solidarity with breast cancer victims P2

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 2667 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

November 1, 2015

PRICE

Local gas prices twice NY's …

World low fuel prices not passed on to consumers Page 13

Page 13

...Govt tax revenues and company profits soar Inauguration spending binge…

“Zero” dollars spent from State coffers – Finance Minister

$120 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Psychiatric P2 car thief repeats crime

– one day after release

P11 Swami Vidyanandaji to be cremated Wednesday - body expected to arrive Monday

Page 3

...“answer utterly disgraceful” – Opposition leader

Greenheart University hosts medical outreach P19 programme

Fallen Guyanese NYPD Officer given heroic send-off Page 10

Thousands of Guyanese including President David Granger on Saturday paid their last respects to Guyanese-born New York Police Department Officer Randolph Holder Jr, who was killed in the line of duty. Officer Holder was laid to rest at Le Repentir Cemetery, following an emotional and moving ceremony at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (Carl Croker photo)

G/T, Vreed-en-Hoop Rice crisis, boat operators upset economic Page downturn Page over high taxes 7 18 worrying Essequibians

– PPP/C urged to “take back the country” during outreach

MACORP P9 unveils 2 new types of excavators

Police, Page 16 hijackers trade bullets; hijacked car recovered in Berbice

Lima Sands residents calling for P12 water tanks to help in water woes

PI into sex worker’s P14 murder underway

2 news Hundreds walk in solidarity with breast cancer victims T SunDAY, november 1, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

he Breast Cancer A w a r e n e s s Committee on Saturday held its annual “Uniting Against Breast Cancer Awareness Walk” which saw hundreds of Guyanese walking the streets of Georgetown in solidarity with cancer victims and to raise awareness about breast cancer.

The walk commenced at 06:00h at Parade Ground, Middle Street, Georgetown and the procession made its way into Waterloo Street, Church Street, Irving Street, Lamaha Street and then into Camp Street before heading back to Parade Ground.

At the event, First Lady Sandra Granger emphasised the need for increased awareness of breast cancer as well as detection. “We have to keep conscious in the minds of our citizens, especially our women, the vital importance of caring for themselves, of early screening and detection so that they will have a

walk, adding that the increased awareness over the years has shown that the initiatives have borne fruit.

“For the past few years, we used to have one, two or three new diagnosis every three months. For the last 20 days, I have found five new cases of breast cancer in their early stages, and they have started treatment for two of them,” he stated, adding that “this foundation has started bearing its fruits. I applaud and appreciate the courage of everyone present here today.”

One participant who

First Lady Sandra Granger and Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green led the charge during the breast cancer awareness walk

greater chance of survival of this scourge in terms of women’s health,” she related. She commended the Committee for organising the event and their initiatives to raise awareness.

Also present at the event was Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green who

underscored the importance of having a population that is educated about their health. She applauded the scores of young people who participated in the walk, as they play an important role in spreading awareness. She expressed her gratitude to those can-

cer victims as well as survivors who contributed and participated, saying “To those survivors, you have shown that women are of strength and of courage”.

Dr Syed Ghazi, a specialist from the Cancer Institute of Guyana reiterated the importance of the

identified herself as Nurse Smith expressed her personal admiration for the participants as she reflected on losing her mother to cancer.

“When we hear the word cancer, it strikes fear into our hearts. Many of us have lost our family members and friends to cancer, not only breast cancer but all kinds of cancer. Congrats to everyone who showed up in their numbers… it shows that you care,” she stated.

The proceeds of the walk will go towards offering free breast cancer screening to women.

Psychiatric car thief repeats crime – one day after release

A

24-year-old patient of the National P s y c h i a t r i c Hospital was on Friday placed before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in Court Two of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with stealing a car, his fourth offence of that nature.

Raymond Samaroo, a minibus driver, of 20 Owen Street, Kitty, Georgetown, was not required to plead to the indictable charge which read that on October 28 at Station Street, Kitty, he stole one Toyota Allion valued $3 million; the property of the Virtual Complainant (VC) Eon Pearson. When the Administration of Justice Act was applied, the accused entered a not guilty plea.

Police Prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones did not reveal the particulars surrounding the charge; however, it was revealed that the accused was released on $150,000 bail on a similar matter the day before committing the offence. The accused has been previously charged for three offences similar in nature. In his previous appearances, the court heard that Samaroo was charged for stealing a 4-Runner in a similar manner while

Repeat offender, Raymond Samaroo

the driver was purchasing a meal at a Chinese restaurant. It was while he was on bail for that charge that he stole a car while the owner was still seated in the driver’s seat. The Prosecutor objected to bail on these grounds.

Attorney Paul Fung-AFat made an application for bail stating that his client suffers from a mental disease and could not be held accountable for his actions as he suffers from delusions and amnesia.

The Attorney requested that he be placed on bail so that he could receive his monthly treatment. Bail was denied and the matter will return to Court on November 7.

NEWS

3

SunDAY, november 1, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Sunday, November 1 – 09:00h-10:30h and Monday, November 2 – 10:00h-11:30h.

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Sunday, November 1 – 07:50h-09:20h and Monday, November 2 – 08:45h-10:15h.

FERRY SCHEDULE Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h daily.

WEATHER TODAY Weather: Thundery rain showers can be expected in the morning, while heavy rain showers with sunny weather can be expected in the afternoon. Partly cloudy skies are expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees and 30 degrees Celsius.

Wind: East to East North-easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.47 metres per second.

High Tide: 07:35h and 19:48h reaching maximum height of 2.41 metres and 2.44 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 01:05h and 13:21h reaching minimum heights of 0.62 metre and 0.87 metre respectively.

Saturday, October 31, 2015

LOTTERY NUMBERS A 14 19 22 25 27 28 01 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

Daily Millions

02 16 19 20 23 LUCKY 3

9

8 5

Draw De Line

05 07 08 10 11

19 20

DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

Inauguration spending binge….

“Zero” dollars spent from State coffers – Finance Minister ..."answer utterly disgraceful" – Opposition leader

BY DEVINA SAMAROO

M

aking matters more confusing, the Finance Ministry’s parliamentary response to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) questions in relation to expenses incurred for the Presidential inauguration ceremonies have created far more questions than answers.

In August, the Opposition had submitted a list of questions about the inauguration spending to the Clerk of the National Assembly Sherlock Isaacs which were to be answered

by Finance Ministry.

But in its written reply, the Finance Ministry provided no clarifications on the issues within the public domain regarding this concern. In fact, some of the responses provided completely contradicted what several government ministers had already publicly pronounced about the inauguration spending.

The PPP/C had asked government to provide a detailed list of all the costs incurred in relation to, and in preparation for, the Presidential Inauguration events held at Parliament Building, Independence Arch, National Stadium, Providence, Pegasus Hotel, and elsewhere, including the clean-up campaign that preceded those events.

The Ministry’s response is: “the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport was not required to provide any financial, technical, nor in-kind support in preparation for the Presidential Inauguration events held at Parliament Buildings,

Finance Minister Winston Jordon

Independence Arch in Brickdam, Pegasus Hotel, and elsewhere, including the clean-up campaign that preceded those events.”

Firstly, analysts have observed that the Ministry has limited its answer to the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport though the PPP/C asked a general question regarding the spending.

Additionally, government’s reply is completely contrary to what was already disclosed by State Minister Joseph Harmon and Junior Education Minister Nicolette Henry.

Minister Harmon had told the media on the sidelines of a post-Cabinet press briefing that government

contributed minimally to this event, noting that most of the costs were covered by donations from private individuals.

Subsequently, on the final day of the Budget Estimates, Minister Henry succumbed to pressure from questions sprung by PPP/C Member of Parliament Charles Ramson Jr and revealed that millions of dollars were spent on the ceremony at the National Stadium.

Ramson had asked the Minister about a particular allocation under “subsidies and contributions to local organisations” under “Cultural Preservation and Conservation” within the Education Ministry and she disclosed that the money was spent on the inauguration ceremony and the T20 matches held in Guyana.

Observers therefore have noted that the Finance Ministry’s answer indicates that Harmon and Henry were untruthful to the public or it can be considered an indication government is attempting to hide the total of taxpayers’ monies expended on the extravagant

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

events.

Meanwhile, the PPP/C had also asked the Finance Ministry to indicate the source of funding to which the reply was: “No financial support was provided therefore no source of funding can be indicated”.

The Opposition had also requested a detailed list of the contributions made, inclusive of the nature and value but the Finance Ministry stated that the “Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport is not in possession of such a listing.” turn to page 9

4

guyanatimesgy.com

SunDAY, november 1, 2015

Views

Sunday Editor: Michael Younge Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134 Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Financial asphyxiation

I

t has to be very disheartening to the business community that the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has still determined that Guyana is yet not “compliant” with its regulations to prevent money laundering and the financing of terrorism.

The Private Sector Commission (PSC) had pointed out the dire need for the government to get its act together to bring this country into line so that our international financial transactions would not be subjected to the higher levels of scrutiny that now prevails in overseas financial institutions that intermediate our transfer of funds.

The time for finger pointing and hair splitting is long over and in the words of an older politician addressing another unreasonable imposition: “this confounded nonsense must stop”. The FATF said very clearly on October 23, 2015, after the country’s Attorney General (AG) pleaded his case and outlined what Guyana had implemented towards compliance: “...certain strategic deficiencies remain. Guyana should continue to implement its action plan, including by: (1) ensuring and implementing an adequate legal framework for identifying, tracing and freezing terrorist assets; (2) ensuring a fully operational and effectively functioning financial intelligence unit; (3) establishing effective measures for customer due diligence and enhancing financial transparency; and (4) implementing an adequate supervisory framework.”

It is not for the government through its AG to argue whether Guyana is or is not on a “blacklist”. On every international financial reporting site the status of Guyana in reference to FATF compliance states very unambiguously: “Guyana is on FATF’s list of anti-money laundering deficient countries.”

Guyana is not important enough to the international financial institutions for them to look into the fine print as to whether Guyana is making progress or not. Once a transaction request crosses some clerk’s desk in some international banking institution it is red listed for higher scrutiny. This slows down the intermediation of funds in and out of Guyana in an era when time for fund transfers is measured in milliseconds.

The factors in the real economy – sugar, rice, gold, bauxite, timber and fishery – are doing poorly and it is almost criminal for the government by its lassitude in implementing already agreed-to measures, to asphyxiate the economy through the slowing down of funds which is its oxygen. The then PPP/C government was warned in 2011 by the Caribbean FATF about its AML deficiencies – one of them being AML/CTF legislation, which the PPP/C then attempted to enact.

The AFC held the country at ransom by demanding a quid pro quo – establishment of a Procurement Commission – while APNU insisted on “consulting” its constituents.

Two years later, with the Opposition opposing, the CFATF again issued unheeded warnings to which the obdurate opposition insisted the government was “crying wolf” on threats to Guyana’s financial system by not being FATF compliant. It was not until it was ensconced into office in May of this year that the APNU/AFC coalition finally tinkered and enacted the long drafted AML/CTF legislation. And they rested on their laurels as the US Charge de Affairs assured the world that this was “fully compliant”. No one took the PPP/ C’s warnings that more needed to be done and none noticed that Guyana was deemed “a Jurisdiction of Concern” by the US Department of State 2015 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report (INCSR).

Right now the government is fiddling when it comes to implementation of measures that will finally nab those who are dabbling or wallowing in criminal transfers of wealth for nefarious purposes, while the economy crashes and burns.

This newspaper has persistently implored government to offer a stimulus to lift the economy out of its recession, but this will not work to optimum if the FATF status is not rectified.

The Opposition has offered four concrete steps for the Government to undertake along with their commitment to help. It is time the government stop the partisan posturing for the economic health of Guyana.

Cambodia: The Angkor Wat Temple to Lord Shiva and Vishnu is one of the largest religious monuments in the world. It is known for its heritage value and unique architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Will PPP raise issue of electoral integrity with Commonwealth leaders at Malta Summit?

Dear Editor, The Commonwealth of Nations (former British colonies) meet in late November in Malta for their regular summit. President David Granger plans to seek the body’s support in Guyana’s conflict with Venezuela over the ongoing border conflict.

Last September on the sidelines of the UN summit in New York, Granger also sought support of world leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, on the border dispute.

The PPP/C leadership seemingly failed to take advantage of the presence of global leaders in NY to raise issues with them pertaining to free and fair elections in Guyana.

Will PPP/C raise issues of flawed electoral integrity in Guyana with Commonwealth leaders at the Malta Summit? The Commonwealth Secretariat is charged with monitoring and guaranteeing electoral integrity in member states.

So it will not be a violation of norms for Guyanese political parties to raise the matter at Malta and/or seek foreign intervention to guarantee free and fair elections in the homeland if indeed there were issues of fraud pertaining to the May general elections. It was the PPP/C and the minor parties that claimed fraud (skulduggery, manipulation of the results, refusal of GECOM to do a recount, etc) in the elections.

So it is up to them (PPP/C in particular) to provide evidence of the fraud (how it was cheated out of office) to the summit leaders in Malta and seek the body’s

intervention to re-examine the results (proper counting of ballots or a forensic audit) of the election and to guarantee that future elections will be fraud-free. If the issue of Guyana’s territorial integrity can be raised with Commonwealth leaders then surely the issue of electoral integrity cannot be off limits.

Unless elections are free and fair, they will not reflect the will of the people who will not display confidence in the system. Whoever (whichever party) wins genuinely free and fair elections must be allowed to govern peacefully. There must not be bullying.

In Guyana where there is ethnic pluralism, all the ethnic groups must have equitable participation in the government based on the percentage of votes garnered by their representative parties. The country needs inclusive ethnic democracy.

Electoral integrity involves transparency, accountability and accuracy in electoral administration, as well as the ethical behaviour of all election workers so as to guarantee confidence in the electoral process.

This should be implemented through an institutional structure and administered by an impartial body supported by enforcers (unbiased police to prevent fraud like stuffing of the boxes that normally occurs at the close of poll through ethnic bullying in some polling stations).

There must be political equality across the board. At the heart of holding genuine free and fair elections is an unbiased election commis-

sion that functions professionally without favouring any party or ethnic group.

In addition, there must be a transparent, accurate list of voters, neutral sites for polling stations (not homes of activists or party affiliates), and objective workers (not those affiliated with a party as happened last May) whose task is to make sure people vote once (not multiple times as alleged by PPP/C) to have happened last May in PNC strongholds).

GECOM should have had measures in place to prevent multiple balloting; GECOM should not have passed this task on to the parties to keep out multiple voting by people impersonating registrants who were out of district.

Also, one standard (nonerasable) ink should be used to stain fingers and GECOM should ensure it is not exchanged for washable ink that provided opportunities for fraud.

Ballots must be counted fairly right after the close of voting and results declared immediately. Those who fail to carry out their responsibilities should have been arrested and prosecuted (this would deter attempts to alter the outcome of an election).

Where there are disputes in the count or where the difference in votes between parties is small (like one vote, for example), there should be an automatic recount; that is standard practice all over the world.

Finally, there must be objective national and international election observation. It is not enough for observers to go round to see if

people are being allowed to vote. The observers must be stationary and ensure that there is no multiple voting or booth capturing or ballot stuffing and that the ballots are properly counted.

They must be part of the certification of the entire process guaranteeing fairness with power to sanction riggers and force reasonable recounts.

When GECOM refused, for example, to do a recount that was requested, the observers should have insisted that it was carried out.

Without electoral integrity, people will have no confidence in the organizers of election. They will reject election results and the government itself will lack legitimacy.

And those (s)elected will lack legitimacy; they will not respect Rules of accountability as happened during the PNC dictatorship (1966 thru 1992).

The upcoming Commonwealth Summit provides an opportunity to have the issue of electoral fraud addressed and to force reform in GECOM to prevent the kind of claims of skulduggery that has dogged elections in Guyana ever since democracy was restored in 1992.

The PPP/C and other parties should not let this opportunity pass to approach the body with their complaints. It is time for those who claim fraud “to put up”and let the body make an assessment on whether to intervene to address the concerns raised.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

guyanatimesgy.com

SunDAY, november 1, 2015

5

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

A catastrophe of enormous proportions Dear Editor, It is appalling that there are so many in our society who either cannot comprehend the dilemma of those who give life to the agriculture sector or adamantly refuse to. As far as history can take us back, farmers across the world are confined deliberately or not, to a social class afflicted with poverty, whether it is in Europe, Asia or the Americas. In addition to their difficulties in marketing their produce at acceptable prices which could compensate for high costs of living, they are prone to health issues without being guaranteed the necessary medical attention and insurance required as well as decent pensions if any at all. Then there’s the issue of having to pay taxes which,

despite being a duty of each eligible citizen, can significantly reduce the discomfort of poor families. Situations like these in turn, contribute to other societal woes among which are poor levels of education, alcoholism and domestic violence.

The last fisherman TIG spoke to indicated that he and his colleagues would spend two weeks at sea, drinking to bear the strain of having to live on a boat. Upon their return, a good catch would get them not more than $15,000, but that is if it’s a good catch.

One 24 year old son of a sugar cane worker explained that he had to drop out of school to work in the fields. As a matter of fact, it was his duty as a young boy to go out into the fields with his father before he actually

left for Primary School every morning, since the family had no choice but to make ends meet.

In developed societies, farmers and fishermen combined are faced with the growing domination of multiand trans-nationals on the market which drown out the voice of the small man, imposing prices which have little consideration for those who produce but instead are axed towards profit making.

This is in spite of the already low market prices due to the abundant availability of basic commodities. It is why the situation of rice farmers in Guyana presently risks further deterioration, since the PetroCaribe deal procured US$14 per bag instead of the international market price of US$9.

Now that for at least 60% of our rice production there is no market, millers are shutting down, such as one miller in Affiance on the Essequibo Coast who joined in the APNU/AFC campaign to promise rice farmers $7000 to $9000 per bag. Whatever, famers sell cannot cover their investment costs much less the needs of their families.

Yet, as their vulnerability of falling into poverty increases, farmers presently can expect nothing from the APNU/AFC Government, which has decided that the rice industry falls within the private sector and that it cannot possibly provide any financial aid.

This is despite the promised $23 billion which to date has remained utterly fictitious, and another failure of

Ramjattan's interference affects us all

Dear Editor, I am sure that Public Security Minister Kemraj Ramjattan knows that his decision to change the calendar date of the Diwali holiday from November 11th to 10th disrupts plans made by businesses and individuals throughout the country.

The dates for public holidays are given out by the Public Security Ministry to printers each year at about this time as calendars are printed for the following year.

I have calendars in my home from a local bank, supermarket, pharmacy and insurance company and all have this year’s Diwali holiday date as November 11th.

My big son, Ravin, is sched-

uled for a training course at the insurance company where he works for November 9th and 10th because the company, as all business places, plan their activities around the calendar holiday dates.

The company booked a meeting room months ago for the course and is now undecided about how to proceed.

Ravin tells me they are frustrated and terribly upset since they never expected the Minister to change the date that was assigned for the Diwali holiday.

The holiday dates that are stamped and signed each year by the Ministry are hardly ever changed and the Minister simply a month before gazettes the respective

date to make the holiday legal.

But this government is following a policy of upturning everything that was decided on by the PPP administration and even the Diwali holiday is to suffer this fate. There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that Minister Ramjattan’s insistence on changing the date is a purely political move.

I am shocked by the number of eminent Hindu leaders who are backing him. The last PNC government managed to split the Hindu community and it seems that this one has already succeeded in doing the same.

All these leaders know that this is about politics pure and simple so now we have

to look at them in a different light.

I will be going out with my family, friends and neighbours to watch the Diwali motorcade on the 10th. And even though it would have been nice to have the November 11th day as the holiday as we had planned, my family will still manage to celebrate this Diwali with all the foods and festivities as usual.

I want to give my full support to Dr Vindi Persaud and to tell her that many of us are standing firm with her. There were attempts to divide the Hindu community before and we survived and are stronger for it.

Shanie Jagessar

the Government to live up to its promise to the people.

So as families gradually slip into poverty, Guyanese must ask themselves what they can do to help. Unfortunately, it appears as though political bias has blinded the altruism of many. However, the need to support the people at the bottom is more profound than mere altruism; it is the civic duty of each citizen who sits with a plate of rice at the end of the day, grown by the sweat of the rice farmer’s brow, to help.

Those who stand back to criticize the small man of the agriculture sector as though he was nothing more than a leech on the Government, should remember that it was by his hands that grew the bora, baigan, pumpkin, bhagee and corailla they enjoy in a curry with their rice.

He was the one who ensured that there was Demerara Gold in their tea cups every morning and he was the one

who raked cow dung to fertilize the plants.

Yes, for those who dare to snob the struggles of the farmer, fisherman, and cane cutter, let them remember that entire families are at the verge of being sacrificed at the profit of the Government’s scandalously lavish 50% salary (alone!) increase.

There is absolutely no excuse when the true sons and daughters of this country are being sacrificed for the profit of those “fat cyats” in this new “donkey cyart economy”.

No Government can even attempt to presume to want to promote unity when it has no respect for the people who constitute the foundation of our economy.

Guyanese will remember this because it is farmers who feed the nation, not Governments.

De Sá The Independent Guyana

6

guyanatimesgy.com

SunDAY, november 1, 2015

Page

Foundation Public service CoI Loss of Accreditation heads to Berbice, “When a man assumes a public trust, he should consider himself as public property.” – Thomas Jefferson

Anu Dev

W

hoever was given the authority by the previous government to look after the affairs of the UG medical school, has absolutely failed our Medical Students, not to mention betraying their trust. And I hope there will be no one trying to slip through the cracks between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health.

The buck has to stop somewhere.

Medical School is no walk in the park. To say it’s a “gruelling” experience is about as understated as you can get. And I’m saying this while I’m just in my third year. By all accounts, (from the wizened veterans who survived to tell the tale) it gets so much more strenuous in the years to come.

So I can’t even begin to imagine how it must feel to have finally pulled yourself through the five-year grind -

to have done your part successfully - only to realize that you’ve been let down by the institution. “Ooops!!

Sorry! We allowed your university’s medical school to lose its accreditation!!”

Through no fault of their own, the students are left holding the short end of a long stick.

And now our new government nonchalantly “promises” to regain accreditation by 2016. First of all, how can they “promise” when the ultimate decision will depend on external evaluators? And June 2016? That’s a mere eight months from now. Isn’t that extremely optimistic given the massive overhaul demanded to regain accreditation? I hope that this is one promise they can deliver on and it doesn’t end up like the other dreams dashed in their ‘100 day plan’.

From where I stand, reaccreditation’s not looking that hopeful though, since the powers that be seem to be missing the point. Imagine - leading off complaining about the cost of flying in and hosting the CAAM-HP review team. Really? Is that what we should be focusing on right now? Not the pleth-

ora of problems plaguing the medical school?

I was especially dismayed to read that there hasn’t been a major curriculum review since 1994.

1994! That’s before I was even born! And this for a Medical School curriculum? Medicine is constantly evolving and the curricula of medic a l schools need to r e flect those new developments for us to produce doctors that can keep up with advances in medicine.

Apart from the strictly medical aspects of the curriculum, courses in professionalism and ethics should be included in the curriculum. They’ve recently integrated a course called PECH (Professionalism, Ethics and Communication in Health) into our curriculum here at UWI. And although I’ve whinged and whined ad nauseam about it, I’ve always realized somewhere deep down that this course will do far more good than

bad. We’ve all had bad experiences with medical professionals at some point or the other, whether it was with a doctor, a nurse or another professional. Everyone who goes through PECH won’t absorb everything and integrate it into their everyday lives when they become doctors, but at least the course opens up some sort of dialogue about treating your patients as people and not as their ailment, about ways to effectively communicate with your patient, and overall how to not just be some stand-offish white-coat-clad figure.

The current situation with UG medical school’s loss of accreditation is a national embarrassment.

And as for the progress in solving the issues over the past year apparently being slowed down to the “political climate”? That’s just shameful. It just goes to show how little our students seem to matter in the games of our politicians. And it’s sad, because those students, those future doctors, and the rest of the UG students as well, the future engineers and scientists and lawyers, they’re the future of our country.

Stifle their progress and we stifle any hope of our country moving forward.

Essequibo and Linden

T

he Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the public service, which has been ongoing for just over a month, will now be heading to the countries of Essequibo and Berbice, as well as Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

This is according to a notice published by Secretary of the Commission, Geeta Chandan-Edmond.

The notice further detailed that the venues and timings for hearings in these three locations will be announced at a later date.

Already, several persons have testified during the Georgetown-Demerara leg of the Inquiry, including Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of the Presidency Omar Sharief, Director of the Child Care Protection Agency (CCPA) Ann Greene, Senior Personnel Officer within the Department of Public Service Gail Williams and Chairman of the Guyana Trade Unions Congress (GTUC) Lincoln Lewis.

Professor Harold Lutchman is heading the probe into the salaries, conditions of service, training and other matters related to public servants. Joining him on the panel are Human Resources Management and Organisational Development Specialist Sandra Jones and Samuel Goolsarran.

President David Granger, in an address to mark the 92nd anniversary of the Guyana Public Service Union, announced his intentions to establish an inquiry into the conditions of service, wages, training, salaries and other issues of public servants.

The Terms of Reference (ToR) of the probe detailed that the Commission will have to inquire into, report on and make recommendations on the role, functions, recruitment, training, remuneration, conditions of service and other matters pertaining to personnel employed in the Public Service.

Secondly, they have

to determine what measures should be taken to improve the efficiency of the Public Service in the discharge of their duties to the general public; and also to review the methodology used in the classification and recruitment of Public Servants.

Additionally, the panel will have to examine the principles on which salaries and wages of public servants should be fixed especially: the mechanism for the determination of wages and salaries, the level of consistency between the salaries and the various levels of public servants, and the basis on which remuneration for various levels of public servants is determined.

Furthermore, the final ToR stated that the Commission will have to review and/or examine the age of retirement for public servants and make recommendations in this regard.

Interested parties, organisations, stakeholders and others are invited to submit memoranda, written submissions and statements relevant to the ToR. In addition, such persons and organisations are also invited by the Commission to participate in its deliberations.

Meanwhile, persons interested in offering oral testimonies before the Commission are requested to indicate their intention to the Secretary to the Commission and provide a brief outline of the areas of their interest.

The Commission’s Secretariat will be open to the public during working hours to provide guidance on the form of intended submissions and statements.

Written submissions/ statements should be forwarded to the Secretary of the Commission, Secretariat Building of the Public Service Ministry.

Submissions can also be emailed to publicservantscommission@gmail. com. Interested parties intending to appear before the CoI should be received by the September 18.

7 G/T, Vreed-en-Hoop boat operators upset over high taxes NEWS

SunDAY, november 1, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Some of the operators who met with Parliamentarian Anil Nandlall to voice their concerns

B

oat operators plying the Georgetown to Vreed-en-Hoop route are upset over the high amount of backdated taxes they are now being forced to pay by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).

Guyana Times understands that these operators have been servicing the route for years and most of them pay taxes. However, sometime last year, the GRA sent them notices, billing them for millions of dollars in backdated taxes.

The operators claimed that their taxes were “unfairly” underestimated by the tax regulatory body and are calling for an accurate reassessment to be done this time. The aggrieved

boat operators met with Opposition Parliamentarian Anil Nandlall on Saturday morning and vented their concerns.

This newspaper was also at the meeting, which was held at the Sleepin International Hotel on Brickdam, Georgetown. One of the operators, Jasoda Singh, explained that she has been paying about $50,000 in taxes annually since she started operating boat years ago. The woman, who currently owns four boats, said that GRA has reassessed her payments, claiming that she owes some $1.2 million taxes for the past three years.

She said that they were called in by GRA individu-

ally to discuss the matter and they had subsequently appealed it. “They say they can’t accept the appeal, that we making plenty money.

They asked us where we go on holiday – my husband doesn’t even owe a passport and mine expired for about five years now” she pointed out.

Asked if any explanations were given as to why the sudden increase, Singh said that she was told by the GRA employee that “Government needs more money”. According to the women, this has put her into a fix since she now has to find this exorbitant amount to pay the revenue agency.

Singh said that her husband was a fisherman and

they converted that boat into a passenger boat to start operations. “We invested all our fishing money to start this boat service that is how we were able to get up lil in life. We worked hard for everything and now we have to pay back so much money,” she stated.

The woman expressed fear that in another three year’s time, GRA would again bill them for another set of backdated taxes, which will put them into further expenses.

Another operator, Terry Sankar, outlined that the assessment done by GRA is flawed since it severely underestimated the expenses that boat operators incur. The man, who has been a boat operator since 1996, said that he is not comfortable with the tax claim being made by the revenue authority.

He pointed out that all other transportation services around Guyana are raising their fares when boat operators are bound by so many rules and regulations and cannot do the same.

“Our boat is one standard, over five years we getting one hundred dollars… When you consider our expenses – wood, paste, cotton, nail – everything is going up every day for us, even to the work-

men and the dockyards.

The figures they bringing to us for the taxes are really unfair to us,” Sankar remarked.

He disclosed that he is being asked to pay $573,000 backdated taxes for three years when he is making an annual profit of $600,000 maximum excluding expenses and maintenance costs.

Meanwhile, another boat operator pointed out that

erating boat services for over a decade, told this newspaper that he knows he has to pay taxes and is willing to do but cannot afford such an exorbitant amount that they are being asked to pay.

“It is unfair to us… they are only calculating that we making lots of money but they don’t know the amount of expenses that we have and this is our main concern. We need them to reas-

Georgetown-Vreed-en-Hoop boat operators are upset over high backdated taxes being claimed by GRA

they are being asked to pay such an excessive amount of taxes, when they are not even allowed to increases the fare because their operations are highly regularised by the Maritime Office.

Furthermore, he stated that the operators over at Bartica and Berbice are not even made to pay taxes.

Lalbachan Babulall, another man who has been op-

sess the amount they sent us because the amount they have for expenses is nowhere close to what we have to pay,” Babulall remarked.

According to the operator, they were given time to pay off the backdated taxes but he explained that by the time they would have repaid this amount then GRA may want to bill them again for another set of taxes.

8

news

SunDAY, november 1, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Third suspect in electronics store robbery remanded

T

he third suspect in the robbery of A N Electronics Store was on Friday remanded to prison by Magistrate Fabayo Azore in Court Five of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Twenty-six-year-old Darren Brown of 119 Regent Street, Georgetown, was not required to plead to the four counts of armed robbery.

The first charge read that on October 23, at Croal Street, Georgetown, while in the company of others and being armed with a firearm, he robbed Kapil Hariprashad of 34 cellular phones valued $1.5 million; the property of the Virtual Complainant (VC) Neshal Ramnarine.

The accused was also slapped with a charge that read that on the same occasion, he robbed Kevin Moonsammy of a cellphone and $20,000 cash; all to a total value of $65,000.

Additionally, the defendant was accused of rob-

bing Lawrence Figueira of one laptop computer valued $85,000; a cellular phone valued $80,000; a ring and $160,000; all to a total value of $345,000.The final charge read that on the same occasion, he robbed Hariprashad of G$250,000 and US$400. An application for the Administration of Justice Act to be applied which was granted and the accused denied the indictable charges.

Police Prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones told the court that although some of the phones were recovered, the Police file is incomplete. While the particulars of the charges were not revealed, it has been reported that on the day in question at around 15:30h, three men entered the electronics store.

One of them allegedly approached a staff member, claiming that the individual had sold him a phone recently; however, the staff

became suspicious as the particular model of phone had not been sold at the store for quite some time.

Before the employee had an opportunity to raise an alarm, the other two accomplices entered and forced the other occupants of the store to lay on the floor while they relieved them of their possessions at gunpoint.

They then made good their escape in a silver-grey Toyota RunX. A report was made and sometime later the Police conducted a search at Middle Road, La Penitence and arrested six men in connection with the robbery. During the search, the Police recovered several cellphones and an unlicensed .32 revolver along with live rounds of ammunition. Two of the suspects – Alfred Hescott and Kenton Vallet – have been charged for the robbery.

When given an opportunity to address the court, the accused alleged that when

he was arrested, he was only informed of one charge; however when he was read the charges in court, they were in no way related to that which he was informed of.

He stated that he bought a phone that was recovered from an unnamed individual and that he informed the Police of it. He also alleged that he was not placed on an identification parade, neither was he positively identified by any of the Complainants.

The Prosecutor objected to bail on the seriousness and prevalence of the offence. He added that the accused has been previously charged for similar offences and if granted bail, it is unlikely that he would return to court.

The Magistrate refused bail and the accused was remanded to prison. The matter was transferred to Court One where it will appear before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on November 5.

Eyew tness Spinning wheels…

T …on rice

his Eyewitness believes you should never say “never”. But that doesn't mean because an asteroid could just fall on your head if you step outdoors, you should become a hermit. You've got to look at the facts and weigh the probability of things happening. So let's look at government officials assuring farmers that happy days are here again.

The Minister of Agri (what's his name again?) tells us that Panama and Portugal will soon pick up the glut caused by the Venezuelans moving to the greener rice fields of Suriname. We won't even get into what role the stiff-necked approach of our government towards negotiations for renewal of the Venezuelan market played in that disastrous (for us) move.

And it's not just the assumption that Guyanese on the whole are daft, the government seems to think rice farmers in particular, must all be potential patients of that disreputable institution in Berbice. It's not just a matter of “finding new markets”. If that's the case we can have our own version of the US PL480 plan and ship rice free to countries as “aid”. To paraphrase an Americanism, “It's the price, stupid!”

From the farmers’ standpoint, the price Venezuela paid for our rice was a “premium one” by any measure – and especially in a depressed world market situation that confronts us right now. But from our national accounts standpoint, we were able to offer Guyana dollars that we print to our farmers – and not have to get foreign currency! Trust this Eyewitness, our export performance in sugar, bauxite and gold, just don't make getting foreign currency such a cinch it once was.

So back to Portugal and Panama. What's the nonsense that we’re shipping a “comparable” an out of rice to Portugal as we did to Venezuela??! In 2014 we shipped just under US$17M to Portugal compared to over US$100M to Venezuela!! The entire Portuguese market doesn't amount to US$70M… so we’re going to displace Suriname – which just displaced us with Venezuela!

Pleeeeease!!!

And what’s this bigger nonsense about Mexico?

Mexico JUST re-imposed a 20% tariff on imported rice – to favour US rice which gets a free pass because of NAFTA! And as far as paddy’s concerned, Brazil just got a squeeze in. And they’re waaaay below us in prices. So that’s why the jet-setting Nagamootoo was forced to concede that all he could get from Mexico on rice was to “commercialise paddy”.

Meaning Mexico advise on producing and marketing paddy!! With an extra 100,000 tonnes produced on top of the 200,000 tonnes sitting in silos because of the Venezuelan cancellation, farmers need that like a hole in their head!

…on economic growth

The good book cautions those of “little faith”. But history’s proven that homily has more to do with matters of the spirit than of the flesh. And when it comes to material matters such as revving up and economy and such like, the better maxim is “God helps those who help themselves”.

So this Eyewitness wonders just where Pressie’s getting the figures that give him such faith the economy will rebound to show an overall growth rate of 3.4% for the year. If the half-year growth was a pitiful 0.9%, it means that in the six months starting July 1, the economy will have to grow by 5.9%!!

Even if the Cabinet spends their 50% salary heist hike and all the inflated perks, it's not going to deliver that kind of growth – with sugar, rice, gold, fisheries and bauxite tanking.

Word is, with the DEA finally establishing an office here, even the drug industry ain't doing so well!

…on Divali Date

Was it a Freudian slip, a sly choice or a Printer’s Devil?

The Muckraker gave top billing to a number of Hindu worthies who pushed their Diwali date of Nov 10.

The only problem was that the headline came out, “Guyana’s leading Hindu organisation's say Divali date is NOV 11”!!!!

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

news

9

SunDAY, november 1, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

MACORP unveils 2 new excavators

One of the new excavators

M

a c h i n e r y Corporation of Guyana Limited (MACORP) unveiled two new excavators on Friday at the company’s main branch at Providence, East Bank Demerara. These two excavators are the 320D GC Series 2 and the 326D2/ D2 L; both of which are Hydraulic Excavators.

These two add to the wide range of machinery the company has in stock and they are understood to be more durable and will certainly withstand the vigorous work required. A major plus for these excavators is

its fuel efficiency with a reduction in nine per cent fuel consumption.

In addition to the unveiling, the company also conducted an Equipment Owning and Operating Cost seminar aimed at edifying customers about better financial practices regarding their machinery, and on how to manage operating costs.

Speaking at the Seminar was Product Support Manager Guillermo Escarraga who underscored the importance of constantly having checkups of the machine to reduce the chance of downtime which will inevi-

Govt says “zero”...

Again, the Finance Ministry focused its answer on the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport though this was not the question asked.

The PPP/C also asked the Minister to indicate when an audited statement of the expenditure incurred will be available and tabled in the National Assembly.

The Finance Ministry responded: “The Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport is not in possession of any statement of expenditure, as no expenses were incurred for the stated activities.

Additionally the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport is not in any position to audit and or table same in the National Assembly given its nonexistence.”

Jagdeo’s take

During an exclusive interview with Guyana Times, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo noted that the PPP/C, and by extension the public, is still not clear about how the inauguration ceremonies were financed.

“The Minister (Winston Jordan) gave an answer that is utterly disgraceful,” Jagdeo declared.

“The country needs to know how state activities are financed,” he added, noting that the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC) coalition had campaigned on the issue of transparency but now in government, they are completely dismissive when pressed for clarity on

from page 3

matters of national concern.

Consequently, the Opposition Leader said he is mulling the idea of sending copies of the PPP/C-proposed questions and the Ministry’s response to international bodies like Transparency International; Canadian Embassy, US Embassy, British High Commission and United Nations. “(I will) show how much transparency we’ve gotten and to show how the PPP/C used to answer written questions versus their response…,” Jagdeo noted.

In fact, he stated that there is no problem if the events were financed by the State, but the issue is the public is unaware of the source of funding and the government is being adamantly tightlipped on the matter.

“If it was financed by private individuals, do those individuals have an interest in government… do they tender for work in government, do they have expectations, were promises made to them? These are all issues that need to be answered.

They preach about transparency but we don’t see anything in reality,” Jagdeo posited.

Further, the Opposition Leader said he is of the belief that people were “forced” to give money towards the inauguration events in exchange for preferential treatment.

“We believe that people were forced to give money and the promise was that you will get paid back when the contracts are awarded,” he said. (devinas@guyanatimes.com)

tably cause further expense.

Only recently the company opened a new Hose Fabrication Press and a branch in Port Kaituma as it continues to expand.

Leading the way in supplying top quality machinery, MACORP places emphasis on its customers receiving the best possible product.

10

SunDAY, november 1, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

News

Fallen Guyanese NYPD Officer given heroic send-off A tale of two fortunes

By Devina Samaroo

M

ournful melodies, tears of sorrow and the soothing sound of light raindrops on an early Saturday morning, all marked the final farewell of Guyanese born NYPD Officer Randolph Holder Jr, 33, who met his demise in the line of duty, during the pursuit of a suspect in East Harlem, New York on October 20.

In a solemn and emotional atmosphere, NYPD Officers, neatly dressed in their navy blue uniforms, escorted the flag draped coffin of the slain the Guyaneseborn officer into the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, more commonly known as the Brickdam Cathedral, as grief stricken family members and friends, all clothed in black, braved the early morning showers to pay their last respects to a fallen hero.

Distinguished dignitaries including President David Granger, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, US Ambassador Perry Holloway, Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud and Mayor Hamilton Green attended the funeral ceremony in honour of the slain officer.

Scores of curious onlookers also flocked the Brickdam Cathedral to bid farewell. One by one, family, friends and co-workers

S Scenes from the ceremonial farewell of Police Officer Randolph Holder Jr

took a stance at the florally decorated podium before the golden casket to expressed their deepest sentiments, reflected on his life, and paid their final tribute to the deceased.

In paying homage to his fallen colleague, Captain Reymundo Mundo, on behalf of the NYPD, noted that Holder served with dignity and integrity and that his devotion to protecting the citizens of America will always be remembered.

Representatives of the Association of ExPresidential guards and Immigration Services Inc (APGI) of the Guyana Police Force and the ex-GDF Association of New York also expressed sympathies to the bereaved family members as they recognised the outstanding performance and dedication of Holder as a Police Officer of the NYPD. Family members and old

friends also stood at the podium to bid their farewells.

Presenting the eulogy, Holder’s cousin Marciella Lovell reflected on her cousin’s life in Guyana and his life as an officer in New York.

Mayor Green also expressed deep condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of the fallen officer. Green noted that the best way Guyanese can honour the late officer would be by ensuring all criminal elements that currently sully the country are eradicated.

When the last person uttered their goodbye, the formal funeral service began with the singing from the church choir united with voices of the attendees.

The choir continued their hymns as NYPD Officers uniformly advanced towards the casket to escort the coffin bearing Holder’s body out of the church.

His body was then taken to the Square of the Revolution where a huge crowd had already assembled, waiting to join to funeral procession to the Le Repentir Cemetery for his interment.

On the count of the 21gun salute, extended family members and friends were asked to leave to allow the family a moment alone to perform their last rites.

Accompanied by relatives, friends and members of the NYPD, Holder’s body arrived from New York in Guyana at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport on Thursday evening.

Before his body departed the United States, Holder also had a ceremonial service in Queens, New York where thousands gathered to pay tribute to the fallen officer. (devinas@guyanatimes.com)

atiricus felt a bit sad, but at the same time very proud. He was reading about TrotterMan running through the Great Hall of the People at Liliendaal shouting “Oil is coming!! Oil is coming”.

And he was sad that Naga Man, who lived right here in Liliendaal had been sent out of the way to the City of Smog in Mexico.

Naga Man even had the road from his home to the Great Hall asphalted for this drive to herald the coming of oil. He didn’t even move into the Big Mansion in town so he could be on time to make this announcement. There had never really been any rats: that was just a tall tail tale. But here he was in Mexico sighing softly “paddy price gone down; paddy price gone down”.

And Satiricus was proud that Naga Man was bearing all his humiliations with such grace. But Satiricus, as a man who knew Naga Man for decades, knew that he, Naga Man, was hurting.

This was the same TrotterMan who had been selected to become the Talker in the Public Buildings over him, M wasn’t he? And why? THEY said he was still smelling of curry and PPCEE. And after he had taken long baths and dipped into the Atlantic – not to mention cussing out the PPCEE – he had joined with THEM. Then THEY had promised him to be FIRST AMONG MINISTERS – Optimus Prime. But when the fateful day OF THE CHOOSING came they gave him just the name – but not the claim to RESOURCES. That went to the TrotterMan. A fella did predict he would get “larwah”, but Naga Man didn’t give him much mind.

Some said it was because TrotterMan was Pee an’ See …but Naga Man didn’t think so.

And so it came to pass THEY made him push paddy IN Mexico – just like when he used to kick paddy with his bare feet in Berbice as a lad. And TrotterMan got to cry “Oil is coming! Oil is coming!” – not because he was Pee an’ See but because he buy oil for his father’s car. He had even got to fly in a helicopter like his hero Forbes to see the Oil Rig. Naga Man soooo wanted to fly in a helicopter.

But because Naga Man was a patriot he did the best with what was given to him. And even though he didn’t get the Mexicans to buy any paddy, he did get their recipe for Spanish Rice and a bottle of tequila.

In the meantime he wished TrotterMan well for the Maserati he received for giving the speech to all the oil companies. “He knew how to fill up the Maserati with gas,” said Naga Man with a sob.

He was so happy for his country he could cry! And Satiricus was so proud of him. The bottle of tequila would make everything Ok.

NEWS

Health Committee Chairman still baffled as to why LHC nurse was not reinstated

T

wo years after being implicated in a matter of misappropriation of funds at the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC), a male nurse who has since been cleared of all charges, to date remains off the job, since being sent on administrative leave by management.

The nurse, Kenroy Moseley was charged along with another employee in 2013, however while the other employee was further implicated, the charge against Moseley was dismissed.

Since then Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) Health Committee Chairman Maurice Butters, also serving in the capacity of Region 10 Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) representative, has been lobbying for the reinstatement of the nurse. Butters said the time has come for the former employee to have his job back, stressing that the issue has been prolonged for far too long.

He said the authorities were awaiting a response from the Solicitor General’s Office regarding the issue, but contends that such is irrelevant. “…whereas, the rule clearly states that if it is that a matter was brought against an employee, that employee should be sent on leave, pending the investigation. At the end, if the employee should be freed of that situation, they should im-

mediately be returned to the job. There should be immediate reinstatement.

“This matter has been brought to the attention of the Ministry of Health. It was represented at the Ministry of Labour. The Labour people were involved in reconciliation, they agreed that the management was wrong to do what they did. Because there was no written instruction to management”, he related.

Butters said Moseley’s salary was arbitrarily ceased as a result, however, when enquiries were made to the previous Ministry of Health, LHC management revealed that the decision was made by then Finance Ministry.

He noted that there are Regulations which are supposed to be adhered to in such cases involving employees. Butters further stated that advice from the then Finance Ministry suggested that in such cases where employees’ payment is ceased, there must be a written statement from the Ministry of Health. However, he alleged that there was no such written statement from the Health Ministry and it appears as though a blame game was being played out.

“The copies of judgement were made available to the Ministry of Health, and that is what they were seeking from the Solicitor General’s Office. What I’m concerned about, is when a decision is

Swami Vidyanandaji to be cremated on Wednesday – body expected to arrive on Monday

Swami Vidyanandaji Maharaj By: Indrawattie Natram

R

enowned Guyanese Swami Vidyanandaji Maharaj, 79, the spiritual leader and Director of the Guyana and United States Bharat Sevashram Sangha body is expected to arrive in Guyana Monday at 07:20h at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.

His body will be cremated on the lawns of Cove and John Ashram, East Coast Demerara on Wednesday 4 November at 12:30h. His ashes are expected to be scattered in the Berbice River and the Ganges (India). Persons attending the funeral are requested to wear white clothing walk

11

SunDAY, november 1, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

along with fresh flowers.

All devotees, well-wishers and friends of the Sangha are also asked to note that chanting and prayers continue at the Ashram every evening from 18:30h until Wednesday in honour of the revered Spiritual Master Swami Vidyanandaji Maharaj.

Swami Vidyanandaji has influenced and steered the lives of thousands of Guyanese more specifically the life of Guyana’s Former President Bharrat Jagdeo who expressed his sadness due to the passing of Swamiji, a man who will always have a place in his heart.

Thousands are expected at the Ashram for the cremation ceremony including many religious leaders, swamis, and other devotees from London, United States, Canada, Brazil and Suriname, some of who are already in the country.

Swami Vidyanandaji was born on July, 3, 1936. He is the country’s first ordained Hindu monk of the Bharat Sevashram Sangha.

The passing of Swamiji leaves thousands mourning as people in the Diaspora and Guyana honour him as a true role model.

made, they are expected to pay the young man from the time they sent him on administrative leave. Now will they want to pay him all that money?” Butters queried.

He further related that the issue has been raised with the present administration. The Health Committee Chairman and GPSU Representative also registered frustration over the issue, noting that there are a lot more issues regarding employees at the Health Institution.

“You know how many people got sent home and still receiving their salary every month? They ain’t got a letter onto now, of dismissal or suspension… because it is illegal for you to send home any employee by word of mouth”, he said.

Butters said he hopes to see an end to this issue, noting that the male nurse has a family to support.

12 news

SunDAY, november 1, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Lima Sands residents calling for water tanks to help with water woes

R

esidents living in the Lima Sands residential area – a village that is located some five miles from the Anna Regina Public Road – in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) are calling on the Region Two administration to provide the village with black water tanks, so as to bring relief to the residents affected by the current water crisis. The village does not have a well nor water lines provided by Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), and depend solely on the canal as their source of water for all daily activities.

After residents made complaints for over a month, the Region Two administration in collaboration with the GWI

– Essequibo Branch, managed to provide water in the form of one tank per family, but residents claim the water cannot be used for drinking purposes. However, Guyana Times spoke with GWI officials who explained that the water provided is directly sourced from the Lima Water Treatment Plant and is chlorinated.

Residents suggested that three black tanks to be placed in strategic areas in the village for storage purposes.

At the moment, Lima Sands Primary and Nursery are without water, since there is no electrical pump to pump the water up.

Residents at a meeting held on Friday at the com-

munity pavilion, said everyday they have to struggle as they cannot used the water in the canal, since they fear it is still contaminated. Residents also related that they cannot afford to purchase water to drink.

reported that there was no cow in the canal. However, the press on the other hand had reported based on information provided by residents

a good picture, I will use my voice to raise a motion or even ask a question about the issue in Parliament if it comes to that,” Damon stated.

“Yes to cow in the canal”

During the community meeting, residents were asked by Member of Parliament Cornel Damon, whether there was indeed a cow in the canal, to which residents unanimously replied “yes”, stating that the pregnant cow had died in the canal.

Previously, Region Two Regional Executive Officer (REO) Rupert Hopkinson had A section of those gathered at the community meeting

of Lima Sands that the cow was in the canal. This development has put Hopkinson under serious pressure, since he failed to represent the plight of the people.

Addressing residents, Damon who listened to the residents said he would immediately convene a meeting with the Regional Chairman Devanand Ramdatt, REO, Rupert Hopkinson to address the water issues faced by the residents. Damon said that water essential and persons in Lima Sands are suffering; a problem he is optimistic that won’t cost the Region Two Administration much to resolve.

Damon assured residents that the issue will be resolved, even if he has to take the matter to Parliament. “ I was put here to represent the people, things can’t be happening and people painting

Meanwhile, the Region Two Chairman said he is quiet disappointed in the manner in which the entire issue relating to the lack of water in Lima Sands was dealt with by the administration.

He said that a delegation of residents met with him at the office and immediately he sent a letter to the REO. He said after the residents visited, the issue was raised by a Councillor from the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) at the RDC level and yet nothing was followed up on by the REO. Ramdatt said there was no meaningful follow up on the issue until the media visited the area.

Ramdatt said that Regional officials are often unaware of issues affecting people in the region, adding that they cannot sit in their offices and know what’s going on.

The Regional Chairman added that although water was sent to the area, the boozer that contained the water was unclean, which is unfair to the community. Residents revealed that they are in much discomfort as they have to walk long distances – sometimes almost three miles – to source water from the “Feathered” beach. Residents are also forced to purchase bottled water. This is putting financial pressure on families as they have to now incur additional expenses.

Headteacher of the Lima Sands Primary Jone Russel, reported that the school is presently out of water for drinking and domestic purposes. Russel related that there is not sufficient water to flush the toilets and for children to drink. She said that children usually drink water from the canal which is presently contaminated.

Russel further explained that there is a lack of drinking water in the area and many families are suffering, “ the cleaner has to get water, children have to go to the canal to fetch water, they are so small... snake can bite them, children are suffering.”

The Headteacher further related that the situation was reported to the Department of Education, but to date, no follow up was made.

There has been an increase of water borne diseases and skin rashes in the area. This was as a result of the contaminated water in the canal. Teachers from the Lima Sands area also reported that children are coming to school ill, with some vomiting and others experiencing high fevers.

news

13

SunDAY, november 1, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Let there be light

By Ryhaan Shah

G

uyana has been experiencing much darkness for decades. The cultural and social degradation that began during the Burnham era never stopped and any hope that the new administration would have ushered in positive change has already fled.

We live in a cuss-down culture that manifests itself daily in all kinds of ways littering, whether through noise pollution, foul language, crime, violence, and abuse, or Ryhaan Shah the vulgarities that culminates so “grandly” as Mashramani.

They are all linked and perhaps it is a sense of helplessness against the empowered that feeds the contempt and disregard we have for our environment, for others, and for ourselves. And these cut through every stratum of our society.

Within the new administration there are already open displays of contempt for the rule of law, disregard for accords and democratic processes, and also that marked inability of our politicians to conduct a civil discourse without resorting to personal attacks.

Just this past week, Minister of Public Security Kemraj Ramjattan inflicted such an attack. The discussion over the date for the Diwali holiday deteriorated when the minister made statements that were intended to demean the President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr Vindhya Persaud.

Ramjattan dismissed Dr Persaud as a mere politician and added that she was neither a pandit nor swami, implying that her opinions were of no consequence to anyone.

Now, Dr Persaud is not only the head of the largest Hindu organization in Guyana, ie, the majority, but she is a medical doctor and a Member of Parliament.

As a dancer, choreographer and one of the main organizers of the annual Diwali motorcade, she makes sure the artistic expressions of music and dance, and all the colour, glitter, and pageantry that go with Indian performances are continued, and continue to enrich our lives.

She also hosts a regular television show on Hinduism that has been running for decades and which has probably educated more Hindus than our pandits and swamis put together.

In the western practice of Hinduism, Dr Persaud also plays an increasingly important role in the upkeep of the religion as a Hindu Mandir Executive.

She carries on that valued tradition of Indian women in Guyana who work to ensure that the cultural values and religious beliefs brought here by our foreparents are taught to and learned by future generations. Women like Dr Persaud are the unsung heroes of our community.

It is their selfless work in our homes, mandirs, mosques and churches, that make us resilient and has carried us through a hundred years and more to this point where we continue to honour the beliefs and values that make us strong.

They are the ones who keep us secure in that essential knowledge of self, culture, and heritage, without which we would be rootless and much weakened.

Whatever the disagreements with the Dharmic Sabha’s position regarding the holiday date, none of them warranted the personal belittling of Dr Persaud. Even without her many accomplishments, Ramjattan is aware of the respect that is due her since, within Hinduism, women are considered the embodiment of the Universal Mother, Shakti.

His disrespect is, however, not out of place in a country where violence and abuse against women are daily occurrences. There has been no condemnation from anyone and his behaviour further exposes his government’s social cohesion policy as a fraud.

The Minister of Social Cohesion Amna Ally is also silent when this could be an opportune moment for her and her ministry to intervene and show that her government is serious about ensuring peace and unity in every community. All the talk about cohesion is now unmasked as meaningless propaganda.

However it is that it has fallen to a minister of government to pronounce on a religious holiday, Ramjattan appears to be taking full advantage of the situation to engage in a political power play.

He has actively sowed unnecessary discord within a large section of society either because he is incapable of handling his ministerial responsibilities in a just manner or else his partisan behaviour is fully endorsed by this administration.

Since the Diwali date on every calendar to the general public is November 11 and since many have already made plans accordingly, the peaceable solution would be to concede the date as it stands, and have the Hindu community agree to a wider consultation on future holidays as suggested by Swami Aksharananda.

I am not a Hindu but my research into this issue has left me rather disheartened when I discovered that it is the women, the Lackshmis, who will commemorate Diwali, and that mandir attendees are always over 90% women.

Yet, it is a convening of Hindu men who are deciding on a change of date which will inconvenience the preparations that so many Hindu women make for their families and friends for this important festival. It is the women who decorate the homes, cook the many foods and delicacies, and ensure the diyas are prepared and lit.

Turning the issue of the holiday into an ugly confrontation is the kind of darkness that the lights of Diwali are intended to dispel and there is still time for Ramjattan to step up and take a conciliatory position in the interest of restoring calm and ensuring that this Diwali will be celebrated in unison as one of peace, light and harmony.

A gracious solution to this issue could show the way to shedding much-needed light into other areas of darkness in Guyana.

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to shah@guyanatimesgy.com

Local gas prices twice NY's …

World low fuel prices not passed on to consumers ... Govt tax revenues and company profits soar

W

ith the monumentally high fuel prices in the country even amid the prevailingly record-low world-market prices for crude oil, the Guyana Government and private oiled companies continue to hoard millions of dollars at the expense of taxpayers who are forced to pay exorbitant prices for fuel while the Administration enjoys the luxury of purchasing cheaper oil.

As would be expected, when crude oil prices slump on the international market, Government would instruct the state-owned service station Guyana Oil Company Ltd (Guyoil) to considerably lower its prices so that Guyanese can benefit.

In fact, this has been the case for almost every other State worldwide: consumers are paying significantly less as a direct result of the oil industry’s current downturn. Prices in New York are half that of the prices in Guyana, even though both are purchasing old at the same price.

Crude oil prices have been hovering around US$40 per

barrel yet Guyanese are forced to pay $190 per litre while diesel will now be sold for $161 per litre. This was the most recent reduction announced by government which took effect October 16. Prior to that, gas was being sold for $199 per litre while diesel went for $168 per litre.

Consumers are contending that this reduction is insignificant, given the incredibly low prices Government is paying for oil.

Guyoil was created to undercut the prices at the private gas stations, with the longterm objective of making the private service stations lowering its prices too in order to remain competitive.

At Rubis gas stations, prices are $190 per litre for gas and $162 per litre for diesel.

At Shell gas stations, prices are $190.90 per litre for gas and $162.90 per litre for diesel.

Economic impacts

According to the midyear economic report released by the Finance Ministry, Government has been raking

in mega revenues as a result of the lower international oil prices and by not passing on the savings to consumers and businesses, as is being practised in other countries.

The report stated: “Public enterprises recorded a surplus of $4 billion in the first half of 2015, compared to a deficit of $2.5 billion recorded for the same period in 2014. This is mainly on account of improved performance by Guyoil which realised an overall surplus of $1.7 billion for the period under review compared to a deficit of $0.9 million reported in first half 2014. The main contributory factor to the improved performance by Guyoil was the reduced cost of fuel.

While there was a 16.7 per cent decrease in the sale of fuel products, this was compensated by a $5.3 billion reduction in the payment to creditors as a result of a significant decrease in the acquisition costs of fuel in the first half of 2015.”

What this means is although less fuel was imported, Guyoil made a profit of $1.7 billion as opposed to a loss of $0.9 billion in the comparable

half year of 2014. This means Guyoil took in $2.6 billion that could have ended up in the pockets of Guyanese vehicle owners. This would have been pumped into the economy in consumer spending, creating a virtuous cycle as a stimulus for other business activities.

Additionally, Government increased the duties collected by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) on the commodity while allowing Guyoil to make premium profits, in spite of the “reductions” it has imposed.

The Mid-Year report stated that while overall: “Customs and trade tax collections remained stable at $5.9 billion, in the first half of 2015…

Excise tax collections totalled $15.2 billion, an increase of $2.9 billion. This resulted from a $3.2 billion increase from petroleum products.”

The report continued: “Increases in petroleum products were due to increase in excise tax rates applicable on imports of gasoline and diesel oil in 2015 when compared to the rates applicable in 2014... turn to page 15

14

SunDAY, november 1, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

News

PI into sex worker’s murder underway

T

he Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into the murder of male sex worker Nephi Luthers commenced on Thursday. The Prosecution has begun to present its case against Ron Andel Forde, who is accused of killing the sex worker.

Forty-two-year-old Forde, also called “Andel”, of Lot 19 Meadow Bank, Georgetown was slapped with the murder charge which alleged that on July 22, at Quamina Street, Georgetown, he murdered Luthers.

Luthers, 20, of ZZ Durban Street, Wortmanville, was shot once to his chest during an alleged confrontation with Forde and another suspect, Kanand Ojha of Lot 2 First

Murdered: Nephi Luthers

Street, Meadow Bank.

A wanted bulletin has been issued for Ojha; however, Police are yet to find him. It is alleged that on the night of the shooting, Ojha paid the sex worker in the vicinity of the St

George’s Cathedral, $5000 to perform a sex act. During the act, he was reportedly relieved of his personal belongings. After the act was completed, Ojha left in his motor car, but subsequently realised that his phone and cash were missing.

Ojha reportedly collected Forde and went back to the location where they confronted Luthers, but he denied doing business with Ojha, which resulted in an argument. During the argument, Ojha reportedly told Luthers, “You have to give back the thing”, but in response, the commercial sex worker said: “Me ain’t been with you”. Forde allegedly then pulled out the gun and pulled the trigger, shooting Luthers to his chest.

The sex worker fell to the roadway and the two men fled the scene.

Luthers’ colleagues picked him up and rushed him to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

On the first day of the PI, the court heard the testimonies of two persons, the deceased’s mother and an eye witness. The eye witness testified to seeing the entire ordeal and positively identified the accused as the perpetrator.

The P.I was adjourned to November 2. The other witnesses have expressed some concern as the relatives of the accused have reportedly been recording their address during the court proceedings; a move they feel threatened by.

Younge’s Take

The new PPP/C T he Peoples Progressive Party civic has begun its stint in opposition on the right note by calling out the new A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change Government on their failure to deal condignly with several issues affecting the public and their continued breach of public trust since the May 11 polls.

It is an irrefutable fact that the PPP/C has over the last few Michael Younge months, make several public disclosures that have exposed the true nature of the new Government by informing the citizenry of the excesses of the five-month old administration while pointing out significant flaws in some of the policy positions and actions adumbrated by the APNU/AFC thus far.

The party, under the leadership of Bharrat Jadgeo as Opposition Leader and Clement Rohee as General Secretary, appear to be on the right footing given the amount of support that it is receiving from the masses and its grassroots members.

Additionally, the PPP has baptized several new youthful and vibrant Members of Parliament who appear thirsty to be part of the party’s campaign and struggle to get back in office in the next five years.

These MPs and Civic supporters have stood by the party’s side and are on various trips and tours around the country rallying support for the PPP and apologizing for its missteps and misdeeds in office. This is good and should continue until the party has managed to rebuild its support base and regain the confidence of those critical voters it lost to the coalition Government.

But the PPP/C has to be careful this time round. It cannot afford to carry dead meat and politicians who are despised, hatred and highly unpopular for one reason or the other amongst its own support base and the populace.

Misers Jagdeo and Rohee must commence a process of phrasing out these politicians who have done more harm than good to the PPP and its image. They must take the back seat and allow a new breed of young, bright and attractive countrymen to come to the fore.

The PPP culture of standing by its members who have earned the ire of the public must be modified. That courtesy and commitment of solidarity must not be extended to arrogant, nonchalant and aloof politicians who have deliberately stolen from the public purse, engaged in high-levels of corruption and immoral behavior, or mismanaged their respective ministries or agencies.

A new culture must be created within the party where integrity means bowing out even before a hearing or inquiry is set up to probe any matter which can cause the party harm. PPP/C members under the new dispensation must be taught to await the outcome of the probe and have one’s actions vindicated as opposed to occupying office in the midst of outrage from the public and growing levels of disgust.

That aside, Mr Jagdeo will have to work closely with his General Secretary to ensure that they are on the same footing and share the same ideological and tactical philosophy on the party’s strategy of regaining power. Tough decisions will have to be made and many heads will roll but the PPP cannot afford to keep the many opportunists and family members who feel inclined to benefit from their supposed birthrights from the party.

If the PPP chooses to continue its current internal status quo with radically and strategically changing how it operates while in opposition, it is likely to lose the next elections.

From a more macro perspective, the party must now seek to regain confidence amongst critical stakeholder groups while its elections petition is being determined. It must engage the LBGT community, poorer classes of people, religious bodies and labour groups in a more meaningful way than it did over the last 23 years.

The party must not allow those who betrayed it because of personal grievances and feelings of disillusion or mistreatment to continue to speak negatively about its focus and form. The Ralph Ramkarran’s, Moses Nagamootoo’s and Khemraj Ramjattan’s of this world must never again have an opportunities to lecture the party about its track record either in office or in opposition in a negative.

The PPP must show them no mind and pay no attention to their politically emotive linguistics which the media eats up and dishes out to its respective audiences.

The party, over the next few weeks, must accept that it has not rubbed some media houses the right way and must commence a process of reengaging the media in a more serious and respectful manner, politics aside.

The PPP/C has an excellent chance of winning the next round of free, fair and democratic elections but its leaders must remain sober headed, focused and appear discipline until the last ballot is cast. A good test for the party will be its ability to win the upcoming round of Local Government elections.

No time must be spared and the party must prove its political value or else another defeat could send the wrong message to its already injured support base.

news

15

sunDAY, november 1, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

GuySuCo “procrastinating” over wage negotiations – GAWU – gives one week notice for wage talks to start

President of GAWU Komal Chand

F

ollowing the much anticipated meeting on Friday, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) has accused the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) of procrastinating over wage negotiations, and has warned that if talks do not commence on the matter then there may be another strike.

This meeting was organised against the backdrop of one of the recommendations coming out of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into GuySuCo, that the sugar company withhold salary increases for the thousands of sugar workers employed at the various estates across the country.

Although Government is yet to officially release the contents of the COI, the leakage of this information sparked much anger among sugar workers and reportedly led to them downing tools for three consecutive days early last week.

Friday’s meeting was held at the Ogle Staff Club, East Coast Demerara where GuySuCo was represented by its Senior Managerial Team headed by Chief Executive Officer Errol Hanoman, and other officials including Estate Managers.

GAWU said in a statement after the meeting that while addressing the matter, Hanoman explained to the Union’s delegation that he was not in a position to commence wages negotiations at this time.

The Union’s approximate 40-person delegation, through its President Komal Chand, pressed for the negotiations to commence in earnest to assure sugar all workers that their interests are being considered.

“The CEO having been pressed to provide an answer, said that he could not advise on a date and informed the Union’s delegation that the negotiations would begin after GuySuCo has obtained a framework in which the negotiations would take place,” GAWU mentioned in the

statement.

The Union further noted that it is implied from the answer, that the “framework” to which the CEO referred will be given by Government possibly via the Corporation’s Board.

Nevertheless, the Union’s delegation is dismayed at the tactic used to delay the proceedings.

Additionally, GAWU indicated it will convene another General Council on November 7, to discuss GuySuCo’s stance.

“However, we are looking forward, in keeping with good industrial practices and relationships, that GuySuCo will summon a meeting before the General Council meets,” the Union stated.

On the other hand, GAWU also detailed in the statement that Hanoman had presented a lengthy documentation about the recent three-day strike, which he opined should have been avoided to allow the full harvest of this crop’s canes.

Guyana Times was made to understand that GuySuCo lost more than $222.6 million over the three-day strike action that ended on Wednesday. The strike by sugar workers had affected operations at the seven sugar estates and factories of GuySuCo. The already cash-strapped and financially constrained

Mahendra Persaud

Sugar Corporation was forced to utilise diesel as its fuel source from Sunday to Tuesday instead of bagasse since its employees were not on site to execute their duties.

Millions of dollars were spent on diesel at all seven factories and estates. This newspaper was told that each day the workers were on strike more than 3000 litres of diesel had to be used at every factory, costing $600,000 daily, resulting in an average of $1.8 million being spent per factory – some $12.6 million for all seven factories.

The Sugar Corporation also suffered losses in sugar production of between 300 and 350

Errol Hanoman

tonnes over the strike period at each factory – about $30 million. This means that GuySuCo lost some $210 million in sugar production during the GAWUorchestrated strike action.

This publication further understands that while the industry is in a state of flux, there is much uncertainty as to the way forward, since any more strike of this nature will result in even more serious consequences for GuySuCo and the country on the whole. Meanwhile, residents of West Berbice – more specifically Bath Settlement – on Thursday took to the street for a peaceful protest amidst growing frustration with the decision to withhold wages increases this year.

Several sugar workers spoke out against the injustices.

Mahendra Persaud pointed out that while in the opposition, the current government had stated that Guyana was a “donkey cart economy” yet when they entered office they have done nothing to change this except to give themselves a hefty 50 per cent increase and refuses to raise the salaries of sugar workers.

Persaud is asking for at least a 10 per cent increase in wages of sugar workers, pointing out that his family depends on his earnings, which is already not sufficient to maintain them.

Furthermore, he stated that the previous administration never shied away from financially supporting the sugar industry whenever the need arose and as such this government should also do the same.

Another sugar worker, TP Jagmohan expressed concerns over the fact that this year there will be no API (Annual Production Incentive). This is usually awarded to all workers at the end of each year. He noted that both workers and their families look forward to this addition annually. The 49-year-old is further worried as to what will become of the sugar industry if government continues to treat it the way it has.

World low prices not passed... ... During the period January to June 2014, the excise tax rates applicable on gasoline and diesel oil were 20 per cent and 15 per cent respectively as compared to 50 per cent and 45 per cent, respectively, from January 20 to June 31, 2015.”

In essence, this means the previous People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration had more than doubled the taxes on gasoline (20 per cent to 50 per cent) and increased by almost than 100 per cent the taxes on diesel (25 per cent to 45 per cent). The new A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC) Administration has since continued that poli-

cy although since the change in government the economy has flattened out and badly needs stimuli from all quarters to get it moving upwards.

Furthermore, businesses would undoubtedly benefit tremendously from cheaper fuel. For example, the rice industry uses large quantities of fuel and the lower prices would have meant the difference between the losses presently being felt greater than profits.

Many businesses bypass the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and generate their own electricity, and lower fuel prices would have had a direct buoyant effect. GPL bought most of its fuel from Suriname at the world

from page 13

market cheap prices, and it also was allowed to make huge profits, since its rates were approved by the Public Utilities Commission two years ago when fuel was more than twoand-a-half times costlier.

All of these pressures have helped to dampen business activity in comparison to our competing economies even in the region. As did the PPP/C administration, the present government has made an obligatory gesture towards reducing gasoline prices but the argument remains that these reductions are nowhere near what is justified to get the economy going, especially amid Guyana’s current economic downfall.

16 news

SunDAY, november 1, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Police, hijackers trade bullets; hijacked car recovered in Berbice

A

taxi driver is now expressing gratitude after he managed to escape three armed men who posed as customers in the wee hours of Saturday.

According to information the driver Hardatt Balgobin attached to Sheriff Taxi Service picked up three men

at Prashad Nagar who requested to be taken to Sophia, Greater Georgetown. Based on reports, the call requesting a car was received by the dispatcher at about 02:30h.

However, along the way Balgobin was held at gunpoint while the passengers demanded cash and his mobile

phone but instead of complying, the taxi driver sped in the direction of Turkeyen Police Station.

Upon realising what was happening, one of the men gun-butted the driver but he did not stop the vehicle until he had reached in front of the police station. He reportedly

stopped the car, jumped out and ran into the police compound.

The three men however escaped with the taxi. Balgobin immediately contacted the taxi base and informed them of what had transpired.

Guyana Times understands the taxi service had recently installed tracking devices on its cars. The tracking device showed the car heading in the direction of East Coast.

The police as well as other taxi services went in pursuit. As they caught up with the vehicle, the men opened fire and in retaliation the police returned fire.

The men managed to escape by abandoning the car at No 40 Village Public Road, West Coast Berbice.

The police have since dusted the car for fingerprints as they continue their investigations.

GRA puts over 1000 cases unclaimed liquor on sale

T

he Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) on Saturday announced that bids are open for the purchase of 1086 cases of unclaimed high flavoured liquor.

In a release from the Authority, it stated that the sale is being done in accordance with Section 225 of the Customs Act and in the absence of a claim. No information was divulged as to who the alcohol was consigned to and the reason for not clearing such.

Bids close on Wednesday, November 4 at 12:00h. Bids have to be submitted at GRA’s Headquarters, 200-201 Camp Street, Georgetown. The 40-foot container of alcohol comprise 739 cases of Absolut Vodka; 49 cases of Johnnie Walker Black; 25 cases of Johnnie Walker Double Black; 24 cases of Hennessy; 50 cases of Coffee Patron; 100 cases of Jagermeister SE and 99 cases of Tequila.

The GRA also stated that prospective bidders should be free of all tax liabilities and are also required to present their personal identification. The container is being sold on an “As

is, where is basis” and there will be no inspection of the items prior to sale.

Payment must be made by cash or by manager’s cheque.

On May 13, during a routing inventory exercise, officers of Law Enforcement and Investigation Division discovered approximately $6 million worth of foreign liquor missing from the Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD) Warehouse Facility.

The Commissioner General of the GRA, Khurshid Sattaur has assured that the agency will spare no effort in having the perpetrators brought to justice.

He noted that the revenue body had previously installed CCTV monitoring system to safeguard against such incidents, and this has significantly aided the investigation.

From all indications, this incident was orchestrated utilising the cloak of darkness in an effort to avoid detection of the activity and the identification of the perpetrators. Preliminary investigations have revealed that no current employee of the GRA is involved.

Subsequently, it was reported that ranks from the Professional Guards Service (PGS) were caught on surveillance cameras and were handed over to the Police. The GRA disclosed that after reviewing the Close Circuit Television (CCTV) footage from the warehouse located at Eccles, EBD, a copy was handed over to the private security firm.

After reviewing the security footage, PGS positively identified personnel from its service as being actively involved in the criminal act.

FATF’s non-compliance fallout:

Slowdown in int’l financial intermediation ...will hasten slide into recession

I

nevitably, Guyana’s already crippling economy will continue to suffer immensely, particularly in light of the fact that the country still remains on the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) blacklist and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) high-risk and non-cooperative jurisdictions. Observers from the business community claim fears have been raised that the slowdown in financial transactions will hasten the country’s slide into a recession.

As argued previously by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) when the then A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance for Change (AFC) Oppositions had tried everything in their power to frustrate the passage of the PPP/C-proposed Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Bill, the economy will be negatively impacted if Guyana does not meet all the requirements set out by FATF. In addition to facing international embarrassment,

Guyana’s current position would eventually curtail foreign investors, among other economic repercussions, as was argued by then Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall.

A recently released report by the Finance Ministry confirmed that Guyana’s economy is already on the downslide. The report noted that the economy has plummeted by 2.5 per cent during the first six months of 2015, compared to the same period in 2014.

Observers fear this trend will continue, given the pace of which government is addressing the ongoing plights of two of the three industries which are critical to economic development (rice and sugar).

As argued by the PPP/C, if Guyana does not make a steady move to become fully compliant with FATF requirements, there will be dire consequences for the nation, which will ultimately affect the populace. Because of the higher level of scrutiny necessitated by international financial institutions, this slows down the transfer of funds in and out of the

country, dampening economic turnaround time.

Despite the passage of the APNU/AFC-proposed AML/ CFT Amendment Bill 2015, Guyana still remains noncompliant to the requirements of FATF. According to a recently published FATF report, Guyana, despite the progress made, is still noncompliant with its recommendations.

“Since June 2015, Guyana has taken steps towards improving its AML/CFT regime… However, the FATF has determined that certain strategic deficiencies remain,” an excerpt from the report stated.

According to the FATF report, Guyana should continue to implement its action plan by ensuring and implementing an adequate legal framework for identifying, tracing and freezing terrorist assets; ensuring a fully operational and effectively Functioning Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU); establishing effective measures for customer due diligence and enhancing financial transparency; and implementing an adequate supervisory framework.

news

17

SunDAY, november 1, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

THE

PPP/C probing corruption ring in Government – Jagdeo

Documenting O Amerindian Culture

S

ome time back I raised the issue of the poor state in which our historical documents are kept in places such as the Parliament Library and the National Archives. This stems from a passion for old books and relics, which offer societies a glimpse into their past, who they were and what they have become. However, archiving is not integral to the common practices of Guyanese Anna Correia institutions, for it is almost always poorly executed due to apparent deliberate neglect.

One may deduct that this results from the incomprehension of authorities in general, of what it really means to archive the documentation which reflects the characteristics, progress and challenges of our society, that which defines us and dictates our modus operandi: our culture.

Claude Levi Strauss reminds us: “Anyone can become an ethnographer and go out to share the life of a particular society which interests him. But not even the historian or archaeologist can have any personal contact with a vanished civilization; all his knowledge must be gleaned from the writings or the monuments which it or other societies have left behind.”

One of the specificities of Guyanese society is that several distinct cultures coexist within a common space and time, among which nine alone belong to Amerindians. Although Guyanese are taught from an early age of the different Amerindian nations, reference to Amerindian cultures later becomes a generality defined by those similarities common to all nine nations, such as some aspects of cuisine. A random Guyanese might not be able to say what distinguishes a Macusi from a Carib, an Arawak from a WaiWai or a Patamona from an Arecuna, except maybe for linguistic particularities.

This emanates from the sad reality that Amerindian cultures are not researched, documented and published by national institutions beyond whatever little we were already presented with and are forced to revisit year after year.

Exchanges with Amerindian leaders from different nations would reveal that there are distinct cultural boundaries which, though they might have suffered erosion with time, have not entirely disappeared and remain strong enough to condition the identities of members of each nation.

Yet, during the Amerindian Heritage Month, we are served with a redundancy of the same dances, plays, foods, drinks and other attractions labelled “Amerindian”, which have served their purpose and subsequently can no longer teach the public anything more on the different Amerindian cultures.

Amerindian Heritage Month themes often evoke cultural heritage and preservation. However, the Ministries responsible for indigenous affairs and culture have done little or nothing to produce documentation on the cultural specificities of the nine nations. This is despite the age of development that Guyana is transcending, which will bring inevitable change to all peoples cohabiting on its territory, whether it engages their reaction to resist having to adapt, or to embrace it.

In the next Century when future generations look back on our society as it stands today, they risk being confronted with such limited material that could otherwise have served as a gateway into their past, an opportunity to learn from historical mistakes, gather elements of how their identities were constructed and understand who they are.

Yet, an important catalyst of development is the ability to address unsettled issues before successfully attaining progress. This is not the case of Guyana today, where issues such as ethnic divide and discontinuity in governance have marked our landscape since the process of independence was initiated in the ’60s.

It is why national institutions have an obligation to continuously document and archive our history as it is being fabricated, so that those who come after us might succeed there where we have and still are failing.

Culture is not static nor is it reversible. One cannot learn to be a WaiWai, but is conditioned by the environment in which s/he is born and grown. Environments evolve and cultures respond consequentially, from civilization to civilization. All we have left to remind us of the distance we would have travelled is what we chose to leave behind. Consequently, documenting Amerindian cultures is not just an obligation to educate the present generation but also those to come.

It implies laying the foundation of the Guyanese society.

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

pposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo disclosed his party is in the process of tracking down all the corrupt activities the coalition government ministers are involved in.

Following his disclosure two weeks ago at a media conference that government ministers are creating their own companies to bid for contracts, Jagdeo recently added that his party is currently gathering more information of the corrupt nature within the government and this will soon be revealed.

During an exclusive interview with Guyana Times on Thursday, the Opposition Leader declined to offer any specifics on the matter, noting that in time more information will be disclosed.

“This is not a sprint race, so in due course you will get a lot more about names of ministers and how many companies were created and who are the principals of these companies. We have a group working on that and

which contractors are being told to hire which sub-contractors,” he informed.

According to the former President, the public in due time will see a pattern of this government’s behaviour, not just in the award of contracts but in appointments that will be shocking to the country.

Jagdeo recalled instances of where persons have gone up to him in public places and indicated that contracts they had with the State were yanked from them and given to persons who are said to be associates and friends of the coalition government.

“On the ferry heading to Essequibo, a guy came up to me and said he had three contracts with the government, they cancelled it and gave it to a big businessman from Georgetown who endorsed the coalition. This is serious,” he pointed out.

Jagdeo noted that this is happening across the country but is being done quietly.

He said many persons are

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

being removed and replaced on their jobs with persons who are totally incompetent and have no skills in the specific areas.

“This is a major, major reversal. We are going back to mediocrity, we are going to destroy the economy, we are going to destroy incentives and we are going to damage race relations in this country,” he outlined.

The Opposition Leader

further explained that a social cohesion conference alone cannot suffice to address what is happening in the country. He posited that the conference is a “fig leaf” used to cover the action of government that they had taken so far such as the discriminatory actions against Amerindians and AfroGuyanese who are supporters of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).

“So we have political discrimination and also ethnic (racial) discrimination, and the conference was the fig leaf to cover this up,” he added. The former President went on to say that a lot of the international bodies unfortunately got caught up in the whole aura of the rhetoric that they made on “moving forward” and “national unity”.

Additionally, the Opposition Leader also hinted to other situations where current government officials are abusing their authority to enrich themselves.

18 news

SunDAY, november 1, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Rice crisis, economic downturn Major improvement for WDRH worrying Essequibians – PPP/C urged to “take back the country” during outreach

R

esidents of Essequibo Coast (Region Two) have expressed grave concerns regarding the current stagnant and depressing state of the Guyanese economy, the plight of rice farmers and millers on the coast, as Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo led a delegation of Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) in a three-day outreach there last week.

The delegation which included Anil Nandlall, Irfaan Ali, Zulfikar Mustapha, Dharamkumar Seeraj, Dr Bheri Ramsarran and others, saw some forty community meetings held across the Essequibo Coast.

Rice crisis

During the outreach, which saw the team interacting with residents, the most prominent issue raised was that of the current state of uncertainty in the rice industry and the government’s failure to act judiciously to rescue the sector, which as recent as last crop was a flourishing one.

Many residents, the majority of whom are rice farmers or depend on the industry, explained that they are finding it extremely difficult to survive, since the industry is now unprofitable.

Many of them also explained that they owe the banks and cannot afford to pay.

In face of the collapsed Venezuelan rice deal which, in 2014, accounted for US$130 mil-

lion of Guyana’s US$250 million total rice exports, residents called on the Opposition Leader and his team to lobby for subsidies for them so they could go back to the fields.

Some residents also noted that they supported the APNU/AFC in the May 11 elections, but are sorely disappointed, especially since the promises made by leaders from the government, particularly in the rice industry, have not materialised.

During the campaign period, the APNU/AFC had promised farmers up to $6000 per bag of paddy once elected. Now that the APNU/AFC has be elected and given the opportunity to prove themselves, rice farmers feel deceived since they are only receiving $2000 and less per bag this crop.

In response Jagdeo and delegation promised that the PPP/C will canvass the government for the immediate removal of all taxes on fuel, fertilizer and other materials used in the rice industry; stop the collection of all rents from government-leased lands; negotiate with the commercial banks to adjust and reschedule loans of rice farmers and millers; pay rice farmers a subsidy until normalcy is returned; and resume efforts to regain the Venezuelan market: as well as pursue new markets.

Jagdeo also claimed that Guyana can get back the Venezuela rice deal, and expressed his Party’s readiness to assist the government

in this regard.

However he said, based on utterances by government, including the President and Minister of Agriculture, there seem to be no interest in reclaiming the deal or to assist the ailing industry.

Gloomy economy

Many Essequibians expressed frustration at the economic slowdown and the irresponsible manner in which the David Granger-led coalition government is managing the nation’s economic affairs.

Residents in the region said since the APNU/AFC took office just over five months ago, the business climate on the Coast has been very worrying.

They explained that there has been a slowdown in the circulation of cash and less people are doping business.

Some say their daily sales have dropped by as much as 70 per cent.

Meanwhile, the Opposition Leader and his delegation explained to residents that the Granger administration seems to have an obsession with spending, but is failing miserably in creating jobs and other revenue-generating avenues.

He warned that if this trend continues, the country will face serious economic hardships in the not too distant future.

Jagdeo also lamented the administration’s failure to create any economic stimulus to motivate investments.

T

West Demerara Regional Hospital

he Coalition Government is moving towards replicating the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) with the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH) in Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara).

This is according to the Government Information Agency (GINA). In keeping with this goal, there will be focus on paediatric, neonatal and postnatal health as works will be done to improve delivery in these areas, among others.

“The West Demerara Regional Hospital has seen better days, and we want to see it back to, and even beyond that… fortunately West Demerara Regional Hospital is one of three hospitals, which have been earmarked for further development in the primary eye care system of the country… due to funding that was earmarked for the Specialty Hospital,” Minister of Public Health, Dr George Norton told GINA. This money will be spent on improvement for the paediatric area and the maternity section, primarily on neonatal and postnatal health.

To this extent, the Minister highlighted that even though a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) was established at the facility, it has not been functioning; to this end works have already begun to rectify the problem.

Further, an area has been earmarked for postnatal mothers, since there is overcrowding and both postand prenatal mothers have to share one facility.

Also in the 2015 National Budget, under capital allocation, a sum of $26 million has been provided for health buildings repairs and/or upgrades. This provision caters for enclosing of the lower section of the tuberculosis inpatient facility and the extension of the dental building at the WDRH, the extension of the Versailles Health Centre, rehabilitation of Western Hogg Island living quarters and trestle, and the construction of revetment in front of the Upper Bonasika Health Post.

Tendering for the enclosure at WDRH has begun with an estimated cost of $5.5 million, along with repairs to the administrative building, at a cost of $1.5 million.

news

Greenheart University hosts medical outreach programme

T

he Greenheart Medical University hosted a medical outreach programme at the University’s premises at Fourth Street, Campbellville, on Thursday.

The objective was to educate persons in and around the Campbellville area about their medical standing. The outreach was in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and had sponsors such as AnsaMcal.

The testings ranged from sugar, Body Mass Index, and pressure. Speaking at the event was Steven Seepersaud, President of Student Affairs at the University who said: “We wanted to sensitize persons more about being medically sound and being aware of the need for regular checkups”.

Some medical students

T

Mexico’s “Day of the Dead” observed in Guyana

D

Some of the participants engaged in blood pressure testing

echoed the notion that “prevention is better than cure” and that persons should strive towards living a healthy life style.

The event catered for about 300 persons but the fo-

cal point was the blood drive which sought to get response from at least 30 to 40 persons.

The organisers are hopeful this can be an annual event.

Street Styles owner shot during robbery

he owner of Street Styles, Carl Innis was on Saturday evening shot and injured during a robbery at his store in Kitty, Georgetown.

Innis was reportedly shot to one of his knees and slashed to the face. Up to press time, he was undergoing emergency surgery.

According to information received, two men entered the

19

sunDAY, november 1, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

store at about 18:30h under the pretence of making a purchase. As they looked around the store, one of them walked up to the businessman and held him at gunpoint but he reportedly put up a fight.

One of the men reportedly whipped out a knife and slashed him to the face and relieved him of the jewellery he was wearing. It is unclear if the perpetrators took any

money from the businessman or the store.

A close friend of the businessman told Guyana Times that he received the call and immediately rushed to the hospital, but by the time he arrived, Innis was already in theatre undergoing surgery.

The details surrounding the shooting are still unclear but the Police have launched an investigation.

ozens gathered at the Embassy of Mexico in Guyana on Friday evening to join in the celebration of “The Day of the Dead”, or “Dia de Muertos”, an annual holiday celebrated in Mexico.

Explaining the details of the celebration, Deputy Head of Mission, Gabriel Ferrer, told Guyana Times the day is usually represented with a festive celebration to remember loved ones who have passed away. He added that Dia de Muertos celebrates the deceased with food, drinks and parties. The celebrations usually differ depending on the area.

In rural Mexico, people visit the cemetery where their loved ones are buried and decorate the gravesites with flowers and candles.

During these visits, people often tell funny stories about the deceased or share poems that poke fun at their quirks or habits.

Two young ladies, posing as “Catrina(s)”, Mexico’s friendly image of death, over an altar prepared in the media room of the Mexican Embassy

In Mexico’s larger cities, families build altars in their homes, dedicating them to the dead. They surround these altars with flowers, food and pictures of the deceased.

The altar was noted to be a fascinating mixture of symbolism that comes from both native traditions and Catholic beliefs.

At the event, a story was

read called “The Three Gifts” which showcase in a humorous way, the beliefs of many as to what the underworld is viewed as.

Though not many local representatives were at the affair, the US Ambassador, Perry Halloway and his wife, along with Canadian High Commissioner Pierre Giroux and other international diplomats were present.

20

sundAY, november 1, 2015

guyanatimesGY.com

Digicel Guyana Open Golf Classic…

Tour of Guyana Five-Stage cycling…

Greaves wins stage 4, but Dinanauth, Sukhram joint leaders after day one Ospina maintains lead

T

eam Mengoni’s Alanzo Greaves broke Team Coco’s winning streak by copping top honours on the fourth stage of the Tour of Guyana Five-Stage cycling meet on Saturday morning.

The Guyanese won the leg from Supenaam to Charity and back to Suddie for the finish, to become the first cyclist outside of the Team Coco’s unit to win a stage this year. Greaves completed the 62-mile course in two hours, 25 min-

Carlos Ospina

utes, 20 seconds (02: 25m: 20s).

Geron Williams

(Continental) finished second, followed by overall race leader Carlos Ospina (Team Coco’s), Marloe Rodman (Heatwave), Hamzah Eastman (Team Coco’s) and Raul Leal (Team Gillette Evolution). The first three stages were won

by Ospina, Jaime Ramirez and Raynauth Jeffrey, all of Team Coco’s.

The four-day race will conclude today with the final leg from Linden to Georgetown, covering a distance of 62 miles.

By Rajiv Bisnauth

T

he atmosphere was exciting and refreshing and despite an early morning shower, action in this year’s fourth annual Digicel Guyana Open Golf Classic was truly entertaining and enthralling at the end of the first day’s action at the Lusignan Golf Course, East Coast Demerara, on Saturday.

At the end of the opening day, Mohanlall Dinanauth and Rishi Sukhram are joint leaders in the Championship Flight, while Christine Sukhram took pole position in the female category going into today’s final day.

Both Dinanauth and Rishi Sukhram finished the day on Gross 76 and have set the stage for a fascinating final day in the 0-9 handicap.

Jaipaul Suknanan is also in contention for top honours after scoring Gross 78.

In the Second Flight (10-18 handicap), Andre Cummings has assumed pole position with Gross 84, but is closely followed by Lakeram Ramsundar and Roy Cummings, who both have Gross 85.

Azrudeen Shaw is the current leader of the Third Flight (19-28 handicap) with Gross 90, ahead of Mahendra Bhagwandin and Gavin Todd with Gross 93

Mohanlall Dinanauth (left) and Rishi Sukhram

and 94 respectively.

On the distaff side, Christine Sukhram seems poised to reclaim her title, which she lost to Joann Deo last year. She finished on top of the leaders board at the end of day one.

Playing in the Ladies Flight (0-36 handicap), Sukhram, with a handicap of nine, ended the day with Net 73 and Gross 82. Deo and Shanella Webster finished the day with Net 74 each. Deo has a Gross of 94, while Webster ended with Gross 95.

Further, Kishan Bacchus took pole position in the Senior Flight with a Gross

90. Esau Shamshudin and Maurice Solomon occupied the second and third positions respectively with Gross 96 and 97.

A total of 71 golfers, including three females, began the quest for supremacy two hours before the ceremonial tee-off, which was done by Digicel Head of Marketing, Jacqueline James at 08:00h.

James, in her remarks after the tee-off, thanked the Lusignan Golf Club for partnering with Digicel once again to host the prestigious competition for the fourth consecutive year.

21

YELLOW PAGES sunday, november 1, 2015

BABY SERVICES For all your baby needs, visit the Baby Store in the City Mall on Camp St. Tel: 227-6015

CAR RENTALS Need a car to rent? Then call 6111018 for the best cars at great prices.

Progressive Auto Rental: Cars from $4000 and up. Tel: 219-3900, 6435122

dentistry Dentures provided in 72 hours from as low as $4500. Contact Dr B Stuart, 209B Charlotte St, Lacytown.

Tel: 225-5034

Driving School SHALOM ENTERPRISE 2 CROAL STREET, STABROEK. ENQUIRE ABOUT OUR DRIVING PACKAGE & INTERNATIONAL DRIVER'S PERMIT (JOIN US ON FACEBOOK) 2273869/622-8162/644-7052

EDUCATION Private Custom’s brokers certificate training course. All importer/ exporters and others who trade is on the increase globally and locally.

Learn how to prepare custom documents. Date :4th August 2015 (for three weeks). Classes from 2:004:00 pm and 5:00-7:00 pm (optional). For more information call:6948322 or 223-1506. Register early and save$$$

flowers Available: Fresh long-stemmed roses, fresh dried and silk floral arrangements, gift items, bridal boutiques and wreaths. Nesha’s Flowerland. 78 Church Street (opposite St George’s Cathedral). Tel: 2273553/225-3315

FOR SALE Clean Garden earth. Also excavating, grading and leveling done. Call 6279977 For sale by lot: Lot (1): 2 bath tubs, bathroom fittings and fixtures & toilet set; shower fittings - $150,000 and Lot (2): 1 Dell desktop computer & HP scanner - $25,000. Call 225-2676 or 601-5285.

immigration Immigration & Visa Services We handle all Canadian, USA and UK immigration and visa matters. Self sponsorships, holiday/visitor’s visas, work permits, students visas, family, class, immigration forms, embassy enquiries, appeals for refused cases, US green card lottery, business class waivers, pardons, etc. Get your visa approved. High success rate. Balwant Persaud & Associates. Certified Immigration Consultants, 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings & Lights Sts) Tel: 225-1540, 622-8308, 655-3105.

Email: balwantpersaud@yahoo.ca

KEY CUTTing Professional Key Shop, 125 Carmichael Street, Georgetown.

Phone: 225-3923, mobile: 6213249. We cut any type of key, service and repair all types of locks. Get your extra key today. optician

Da Silva’s Optical. For Your Eyes Only, Look Better See Better. Phillip A Da Silva OD, Shannon L Da Silva OD, Natalie Da Silva OD. 248 South Road, Bourda. Phone: 227-3529, Linden: 444-6376, Corriverton: 3393536, Meten-Meer-Zorg: 275-0322, Grand Cayman Islands: (345) 9431515 for the perfect trendy touch.

property for sale One 3 storey building in Plaisance Village Telephone: Attorney Bristol at 628-0668/231-7128 or 612-6417 (owner) Properties for sale in West Minister Robb Street, Alberttown, New Annglet and Rental Call: 6609478/672-0865

services House plans & estimates, weeding of grass and spraying done within 48hrs. Call: 216-0671; 622-0267; 692-8464 Khemraj & Son -landscaping & plant nursery. Lot 77 Independence Street, La Grange, West Bank Demerara. Landscaping, planting grass, weeding, killing wood ants, killing roaches, rats & mealy bug, treat plants, coconut trees and flowers, cleaning ceiling, grafting coconut plants: 18 months bearing period, treating land, grass & spraying grass, grafted papaya plants: 6 months bearing, grafted cherry plant, sour sop & sapodilla, cutting big trees & removing, treated mould for sale & flower plants for sale. Tel 627-5969/ 603-1134.

License Custom Broker/Tax Consultant, assistance with Tax Compliance Certificate, Customs Documentation, and Tax Returns etc Call: 660-9478 K. LAKERAM BUILDING CONTRACTOR, HOUSE PLAN, ESTIMATES, WEEDING & SPRAYING GRASS DONE WITHIN 48HRS. CARPENTRY, MASON, TILING, PAINTING, PLUMBING. PROMPT & AFFORDABLE GENERAL HOME MAINTENANCE. FREE ESTIMATES. TEL: 216-0671/622-0267/692-8464.

EMAIL: klakeram.construction@ gmail.com

spirituality Surinamese spiritualist. Resolving all problems. Money, love, blockage etc. Call 223-6834/600-7719.

198 Lamaha Gardens, 4 Bedroom (2 Self contained and semi-furnished with bed); Dining table with China cabinet in China room. Upstairs roof required work (Leaking), Fully Air conditioned. Interested person kindly contact Rosann Tel # 219-4535, between 08:am-04:30pm 31 First Street, Section L, Campbelville Georgetown, 3 Bedrooms (2 self contained). Simple clean up required, Lights at step required. Interested person kindly contact Rosann tel # 219-4535, between 08:am-04:30pm 693 Section A Diamond , EBD Upstairs, 2 Bedrooms (both self contained). Required extensive work outside (weed, paint, etc). Gate key to be requested by Wayne. Fully Air Conditioned. May require new door.

Interested person kindly contact Rosann tel # 219-4535, between 08:am-04:30pm

taxi services GR Taxi, 24 hours. Phone: 2257878, 219-5000 or 227-2100 VEHICLES FOR SALE JUST ARRIVED: TOP QUALITY RECONDITIONED VEHICLES; TOYOTA NOAH; TOYOTA VOXY; TOYOTA IST (NEW SHAPE); SUZUKI SWIFT; DAIHATSU MOVE (660CC); MERCEDES BENZ C200 KOMPRESSOR; COROLLA AE100 WAGON; TOYOTA HIACE MINIBUS RZ; PITBULL-STYLE FREEZER VAN; LAND CRUISER (FULLY LOADED); MAZDA PROCEED 4WD EXTRACAB PICK-UP; TOYOTA HILUX 4WD EXTRA CAB PICKUPS - 3RZ, 5L, 3L SOLID DEFFERNTIAL; MITSUBISHI CANTER TRUCKS 4 TONS FREEZER; 3 TONS OPEN TRAY; 2 TONS 4WD; NISSAN ATLAS 2 TONS OPEN TRAY TRUCK. PRE-ORDER YOUR UNITS EARLY AND GET THE BEST PRICES. FULL AFTER SALES SERVICES AND FINANCING AVAILABLE. DEO MARAJ AUTO SALES, 2 CHIMNEY ROAD, CHATEAU MARGOT, ECD. 624-0762, 220-5177. A NAME AND SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST

Suriname’s Astrology, Palmist and Hindustani Spiritual Healer, solve all purpose problems, 100% confidential guaranteed. Phone: 6028997 FOR PERSON WITH STROKE AND PHYSICAL DISABILITIES WE HAVE HERBAL BATHS AND SPIRITUAL MASSAGE MEDICINE. CALL: 2200708/687-5653/612-6417 HEPHZIBAH MINISTRIES 24 hrs Prayer Line 322-5081,3374510,337-4259,337-4583,3373070,337-5103. For healing, deliverance, financial difficulties, marriage issues call now. Jesus Cares.

Dutch spiritual healing in removing evil spirits, bad luck, evil sickness, spells, reuniting lovers and prosperity to business Call 6126417, 687-5653, 220-0708 TO let

Three Storey 75ft’x 30ft’ bldg, open floors, 2 offices, 2 washrooms, driveway. 25B Princess St, Charlestown.

Tel: 223-0654, 225-0605 Two Self-contained single bedroom furnished apartments for rental. Selfcontained 7 bedroom bungalow idea for family/ guests/ students local or overseas long/ short term rental.

Contact: 622-7097 / 624-7111 Two bedroom upstairs apartment. $60,000 monthly with parking.

Couples preferable. Tel 233-2607 / 644-7089 65 Fifth Street, Albertown: 6 Apartments, 2 Bedroom each (all self contained). 2 with front large verandah, 2 additional back step entrance. Simple clean up required.

Gate required at entrance. No A/C. Interested person kindly contact Rosann Tel # 219-4535, between 08:am-04:30pm

Classified Ads $5+VAT per word

Call: 226-9921

22

guyanatimesGY.com

sundAY, november 1, 2015

Score’s Even’s absence forces change to Boxing Day meet

U-19 cricketers to benefit from contracts, mentorship programme

By Rajiv Bisnauth

W

ith the unavailability of Guyana’s only A Class animal, Score’s Even, organisers of the Kennard Memorial Turf Club’s (KMTC) annual Boxing Day horse race meet have made several changes to the original programme.

President of the KMTC, Cecil Kennard, told this publication on Saturday that the organisers have now changed the feature attraction from A3 and Lower to C and Lower. This change, according to Kennard, is due to the unavoidable absence of Score’s Even.

In an invited comment on Saturday, Score’s Even’s owner, Dennis Deroop, informed that while the animal has fully recovered from the hip injury, preparation leading to the

Cecil Kennard

Boxing Day meeting will not be sufficient. Deroop, however, anticipates a return of the animal by next March.

Further, Kennard indicat-

Charles Ramson

hree contracts and a mentorship programme for the duration of one year and valued over $500,000, inclusive of a $30,000 monthly stipend, free gym membership from Bodymaxx Gym and a new smart phone, are available for local Under-19 cricketers.

The contracts will be awarded on a competitive basis after a trial, which will be at the Everest Cricket Club ground on Monday (November 2) from 14:00h to 18:00h, and is open to any Under-19 cricketer in Guyana, who is already not under contract.

The financial contributors are GTT, Member of Parliament and Attorneyat-Law Charles S. Ramson, Attorney-at-Law Sanjeev Datadin and Bodymaxx Gym. The applicants will each be scored on their cricket skills and athletic ability and their respective scores will be tallied at the end of the trial.

The athletic ability test will specifically measure speed, endurance and strength, while the cricket skills test will be sport spe-

cific i.e. batting, bowling or wicket-keeping, catching, and fielding.

Upon the subsequent narrowing of the pool of applicants based on their respective performance scores, the top performer will be awarded a contract and the remaining two contracts will be awarded by lottery i.e. placing their names into a box and selecting at random.

The terms of the contract in relation to training, discipline, work-ethic and performance shall be monitored and strict in its compliance in order for the offeree to continue to benefit. In other words, if the offeree does not train according to a set programme and perform then the contract will be terminated.

In addition, a mentorship programme will be established to assist with the development of attitude, social skills, career guidance and network association.

Interested applicants are invited to the Everest Cricket Club where registration and the trial will begin at 14:00h on Monday (November 2).

T

Dennis Deroop

ed that the I and Lower race has been changed to facilitate animals in the J3 and Lower category, while the G1 and

Sanjeev Datadin

Lower event will also include Three and Four-year old maiden animals.

Other races carded for the day include the J1 and Lower and Three-year-old, H1 and Lower with the West Indian bred animals, E and Lower and the K1 and Lower.

Seven races are carded for the day, and jockeys, stables and horse owners have until December 19 to register to participate in the event. Enquiries could be directed to Justice Kennard on telephone number 623-7609 or Roopnarine Matadial on telephone number 326-3192.

Meanwhile, Kennard assured that the ongoing sea defence works opposite the Club’s Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne race track will be completed in time for the December race meet.

Recently, a multi-dollar contract was awarded for the upgrading of that section of the sea defence. (rajivb@guyanatimesgy.com)

sundAY, november 1, 2015

guyanatimesGY.com

GCB/Scotiabank Kiddy Progression One Cricket…

Skeldon, Number 56 and Massiah victorious S keldon Primary, Number 56 Primary and Massiah Primary were victorious in their preliminary round games in the Corentyne District of the GCB/Scotiabank Kiddy Progression One Cricket.

At the Skeldon Community Centre ground, Skeldon Primary played Crab Wood Creek Primary.

Skeldon Primary won the toss and inserted Crab Wood Creek Primary, who posted just 65 when their allotted 14 overs expired.

Shazim Khan was the only batter to reached double figures with 18. Bowling for Skeldon Primary, Stephon Welcom and Tierra Fraser grabbed two wickets for five and six runs respectively. Skeldon Primary chased down the target without losing a wicket in just six overs.

Fenny Adrian and Zakeel Flats were both unbeaten on 35 and 24 respectively.

Over at the Number 59

Makee Katown

ground, Number 56 Primary came up against Number 59 Primary, with the latter batting first and posting 97-9 in 14 overs. Ganesha Umbra was the main contributor with the bat with an unbeaten 27. Bowling for Number 56 Primary, Tresesh Chatterpaul, Haymen Bhajnauth, Paul Douglas and Marica Rose each took two wickets.

GCB/BANK DIH/ DIGICEL NSSCL…

IBE, St John’s record contrasting wins

T

Paul Jethro

he Institute of Business Education (IBE), led by Kedar Amsterdam’s brilliant allround effort, made light work of Buxton Secondary, winning by 185 runs in the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) National Secondary School Cricket League (NSSCL), sponsored by Banks DIH Coca Cola and Rainforest Water along with Digicel.

Playing at the Enterprise ground, IBE batted first and posted a mammoth 256-8 wickets in just 22 overs, as Amsterdam scored a blistering 89. He was well supported by Khemraj Punaram, who scored 50, and Avinash Ramsaywak 49. Bowling for Buxton Secondary, Anis Goodluck took 4-56, while Shamar Adams and Esau Williams took two wickets apiece.

Buxton Secondary folded

for a paltry 61 in 14 overs, as Amsterdam returned with the ball and captured 3-14, while Mohammed Khan grabbed 4-9.

At Zeeburg ground on the West Coast Demarara, St John’s Secondary scraped home by one wicket in a lowscoring thriller. Stewartville Secondary, who won the toss and elected to take first strike, was bowled out for 67 runs in 10.1 overs. Antonio Narine scored 23. Bowling for St John’s Secondary, Reiz Hoosein, Paul Jethro and Manesh Gopaul took two wickets apiece.

The St John’s Secondary boys were made to work hard for their runs in what was thought to be an easy runchase. They found themselves facing an embarrassing defeat at 62-9, but last pair held their nerves and got them over the line. Jethro top scored with 19, while Jeremiah Albert fought to the end with the ball, finishing with figures of 4-14.

Action in the League will continue this week. On Monday, Kingston High School will clash with School of the Nations at Everest ground.

On Tuesday, Campbeville Secondary will take on Gamaliel’s Academy at GNIC ground, Friendship Secondary will battle Covent Garden’s Secondary at Thirst Park, and Canje Secondary will go up against Berbice Educational Institute at the Berbice High School ground.

In reply, Number 56 made careful, but steady progress, reaching their target with two overs to spare to end on 98-3. Gomesh Reece and Trish Chinchilla were both unbeaten on 33 and 18 respectively.

In the match at the Number 71 ground, Massiah Primary came up against Number 68 Primary. Number 68 Primary won the toss and decided to bat first, but only managed to make 70 runs.

Makee Katown was too good with the ball, claiming 4-1. Massiah Primary reached their target with 13 wickets to spare. Latasha Singh and Salim Khan were at the end unbeaten on 30 and 25 respectively.

The competition will continue on Wednesday when F.E. Pollard and J.E. Burnham clash at the Racquet Centre in Georgetown.

23

sundAY, november 1, 2015

Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business

guyanatimesgy.com

Guyana Softball Cup 5…

Regal through to both category finals R

egal XI and Regal Masters have worked their way to the final of the both the Open and Masters categories of Guyana Softball Cup 5 after commanding victories at the semi-finals on Saturday afternoon.

Playing at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary, Regal XI whipped Shakib XI by 76 runs in the Open semi-final. Batting first, Regal XI posted 189 in 15 overs with Navin Singh hitting 73 and Farouk Rafeek 42.

N. Boodhoo picked up 2-26 for Shakib XI, who were bowled out for 113 in 13 overs. Richard Latiff claimed 3-21, while Sheldon Perch made 29. Regal XI are slated to play either Mercenaries or NYSCL All Stars in today’s final. Up to press time on Saturday night, the other semi-final between Mercenaries and NYSCL All Stars was still in progress.

Regal Masters defeated New York Better Hope in the semi-final of the Masters category, and will today face defending champions Floodlights in the final.

Ramesh Narine

Floodlights completely outplayed Albion, winning by 111 runs. Uniss Yusuf (63) and Ramesh Narine (33) carried Floodlights to 199-3 from 20 overs with R. Mangru taking 2-36.

Albion never threatened to go after the target, being dismissed for 88 in 19.4 overs. Sheik Mohamed and Harrypersaud Bhoj scoring 14 and 13 respectively.

Meanwhile, Narine of Floodlights created history on Saturday by scoring his second century of the competition.

He followed up his 147 against Wellman on Friday afternoon

Regal will feature in both the Open and Masters finals today

with a polished 115 against SCI Miami. Z. Haniff of Petama XI scored the first hundred (114) of the competition on Friday against Shakib XI. Below are the summarised scores from the afternoon games on Friday, and on Saturday morning.

In the Open category: Regal XI (207-9) defeated Mercenaries (63 all out) by 114 runs; Shakib XI (95-9) defeated Hyde Park (76-9) by 19 runs; Wolf’s Warriors (237-8) defeated Corriverton

(186-6) by 51 runs; NYSCL All Stars (120 all out) defeated Petama Enterprise (47 all out) by 73 runs; Regal XI (148 all out) defeated Karibee Boyz (120 all out) by 28 runs; Petama XI (200-9) defeated Hyde Park (164 all out) by 36 runs; Mercenaries (147-5) defeated Zameer XI (145-9) by five wickets; and NYSCL All Stars (145-3) defeated Shakib XI (144 all out) by seven wickets.

In the Masters category:

Regal Masters (166-6) defeated New York President’s XI (124-7) by 42 runs; Albion (168-3) defeated Tri-State Masters (166-4) by seven wickets; Floodlights (183-3) defeated SCI Miami (138-3) by 45 runs; Brooklyn Legends (163-6) defeated Mahaicony All Stars (125 all out) by 38 runs; Regal Masters (145-3) defeated Invaders Masters (139 all out) by seven wickets; Albion Masters (200-6) defeated Mahaicony All Stars (153 all out) by 47 runs; New

York- Better Hope (140-3) defeated Parika Defenders (138) by seven wickets; Orlando Masters (223) defeated SCI Miami (179-6) by 44 runs; Floodlights (289-2) defeated Wellman (239-5) by 50 runs; Brooklyn Queens (236-6) defeated Tri-State Masters (148 all out) by 88 runs; Savage Masters (142-5) defeated Industry Super Kings (141 all out) by five wickets; and New York President’s XI (156-9) defeated NYSCS Legends (150 all out) by six runs.

Digicel Guyana Open Golf Classic…

Tour of Guyana Five-Stage cycling…

Greaves wins stage 4, but Ospina maintains lead

Dinanauth, Sukhram joint leaders after day one Page 20

Page 20 Alanzo Greaves (forefront) and Geron Williams finished 1-2 on the fourth stage on Saturday

Digicel Head of Marketing, Jacqueline James, performed the ceremonial tee off on Saturday morning

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, Tel: 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230, 223-7231, Fax: 227-0685 - SALES AND MARKETING - sales@guyanatimesgy.com PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.